Search Results (34,505)

To investigate the impact of Integrated Mining-Backfill-Roof Contact (IMBR) synergy on strata subsidence in metallic deposits and analyze strata/surface movement patterns, this study enables safe, efficient, environmentally conscious, and sustainable mining development. Focusing on a representative metal mine, we integrated laboratory testing, theoretical analysis, and numerical modeling to determine experimental parameters. Utilizing MIDAS GTS NX, numerical models incorporated four orebody dip angles (30°, 50°, 70°, 90°), five stress release coefficients (20–100%), and contacted/uncontacted conditions to assess IMBR’s control efficacy on surrounding rock stability and surface subsidence. By examining strata/surface movement under variable dip angles and stress release coefficients, displacement control mechanisms were quantified, revealing strata movement evolution principles. Key findings indicate: (1) For all dip angles, the increase rate of displacement progressively intensifies as the excavation stress release coefficient decreases. Notably, at a 30° dipping angle, the most pronounced reduction occurs under declining stress release coefficients, with overall displacement reduction rates reaching 17% for ground surface and 18% for surrounding rock, respectively. (2) Surface displacement impacts intensify as dip angles flatten. (3) Shallower dips induce more pronounced stress disturbance, expanding overburden movement domains and exacerbating surface impacts. Finite element numerical modeling enables accurate and effective analysis of strata and ground movement patterns under varying orebody dipping angles and mining-backfill stress release coefficients. Findings demonstrate that IMBR technology, compared to conventional roof-contacted backfilling methods, achieves timely roof support through immediate backfill-roof contact, significantly reduces overburden fracture propagation depth, and offers valuable insights for controlling surface subsidence in complex mining conditions—particularly for mining under surface structures. Full article

Despite advances in cancer treatment, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains a serious clinical problem due to tumor aggressiveness, tumor resistance to therapy, and treatment toxicity. The combination of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with chemotherapy is a promising approach to improve efficacy while reducing side effects. For the first time, the possibility and antitumor effect of the combined use of PDT and chemotherapy with intra-arterial administration of chlorin e6 (Ce6) and cisplatin in patients with HNSCC were assessed. Two patients with locally advanced HNSCC received intra-arterial administration of Ce6 (at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg) and cisplatin (at a dose of 50 mg/m²) via a catheter into the tumor-feeding artery followed by laser irradiation. Ce6 distribution, tumor response, and treatment efficacy were assessed by fluorescence diagnostics, confocal microscopy, and histopathological analysis. Intra-arterial administration of the photosensitizer (PS) and chemotherapeutic agent ensured high selectivity of their tumor accumulation. Fluorescence diagnostics showed rapid and selective Ce6 accumulation in the tumor and PS photobleaching after PDT. For a patient with three PDT sessions, there is a significant acceleration of the Ce6 spread from the tumor-feeding artery throughout the tumor bed with each therapy session. This is a good sign of a tumor stroma density decrease. The combined use of PDT and chemotherapy with intra-arterial administration of Ce6 and cisplatin is safe and feasible, with preliminary evidence of local cytotoxicity treatment for HNSCC, allowing targeted drug delivery to the tumor. This is the first report of the combined use of PDT and chemotherapy with selective intra-arterial administration of a PS and a chemotherapeutic drug for the treatment of cancer. Full article

Social Communication Disorder (SCD) involves persistent verbal and non-verbal communication difficulties, significantly impacting children and adolescents’ social interactions. Traditional interventions, while valuable, face practical limitations, including difficulties replicating real-world social contexts and low engagement among some learners. This paper examines Virtual Reality (VR) as an innovative intervention tool for SCD through a comprehensive review of empirical studies (2010–2024). Analysis of 11 peer-reviewed studies, encompassing both autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-specific and broader SCD populations, revealed five key themes being discussed in the current literature: usability and acceptability, social skills training, gaze and attention tracking, measurement and assessment, and applications in inclusive education. Our findings demonstrate VR’s potential as a mediating tool between therapeutic interventions and real-world social interactions, offering controlled yet naturalistic environments that enable safe, structured practice while maintaining engagement. The alignment with cognitive science principles enhances learning processes through effective management of cognitive demands. Building on these findings, we propose implementation strategies for educational and therapeutic settings, addressing design considerations, delivery methods, and outcome evaluation. This synthesis advances the understanding of VR as an innovative, scalable approach to supporting social communication development in children and adolescents. Full article

Access to business financing in Europe has historically been a challenge for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which represent a significant share of economic activity and employment in Europe. This issue has been significantly intensified since the global financial crisis, disproportionately affecting this segment. This study analyzes firm-level determinants influencing access to alternative financing sources, including crowdfunding, venture capital, and other non-bank channels, using data from the 2023 SAFE covering 15,855 firms across Europe. Results indicate that firm size significantly affects access, with larger, established firms more likely to secure such funding. However, younger, innovation-driven firms demonstrate a higher propensity to pursue equity and crowdfunding options, driven by their need for flexible and early-stage capital. Sectoral patterns also emerge: industrial firms more often obtain public grants, while service-sector firms lead in adopting equity-based and crowdfunding models. The findings highlight the critical role of innovation capacity and international orientation in broadening financial access. Digital platforms are identified as key enablers in democratizing funding, particularly for SMEs. This research advances understanding of SME financing dynamics within evolving financial landscapes and provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to promote inclusive and sustainable access to finance. Full article

Background: Insect-derived proteins constitute an underutilized biological resource requiring urgent exploration to address global food protein shortages. However, their widespread application is hindered by the allergenic potential, particularly phospholipase A2 (PLA2), a highly immunoreactive allergen prevalent in edible insects such as ants and honeybees. Objective: This study systematically investigated the molecular mechanism underlying quercetin-mediated reduction in PLA2 allergenicity, aiming to establish a novel strategy for developing hypoallergenic insect protein resources. Methods and Results: Through integrated computational and experimental approaches, we identified quercetin’s dual non-covalent and covalent binding capabilities with PLA2. Molecular docking revealed robust interactions (the binding energy of −6.49 kcal/mol) within the catalytic pocket. Meanwhile, mass spectrometry specifically identified Cys37 as the covalent modification site, which can bind to quercetin and increase the gyration radius (Rg) of PLA2 within 75–125 ns. Molecular dynamics simulations illustrated quercetin-induced conformational changes affecting critical antigenic epitopes. Murine experiments further confirmed that quercetin-modified PLA2 exhibited significantly reduced IgE reactivity and allergic responses compared to native PLA2, as demonstrated by assessments of anaphylactic behavior, histopathological changes, and measurements of serum IgE antibody and biogenic amine levels. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings provide a transformative approach to safely utilize insect-derived proteins for sustainable nutrition solutions. Full article

A comprehensive understanding of aerodynamic instabilities, such as flutter, non-synchronous vibration (NSV), rotating stall, and forced response, is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of turbomachinery, particularly fans and compressors. These instabilities impose significant limitations on the operating envelope, necessitating precise monitoring and accurate quantification of vibration amplitudes during experimental investigations. This study addresses the challenge of measuring these amplitudes by comparing multiple measurement systems applied to the open-test case of the ultra-high bypass ratio (UHBR) fan ECL5. During part-speed operation, the fan exhibited a complex aeromechanical phenomenon, where an initial NSV of the second blade eigenmode near peak pressure transitioned to a dominant first-mode vibration. This mode shift was accompanied by substantial variations in blade vibration patterns, as evidenced by strain gauge data and unsteady wall pressure measurements. These operating conditions provided an optimal test environment for evaluating measurement systems. A comprehensive and redundant experimental setup was employed, comprising telemetry-based strain gauges, capacitive tip timing sensors, and a high-speed camera, to capture detailed aeroelastic behaviour. This paper presents a comparative analysis of these measurement systems, emphasizing their ability to capture high-resolution, accurate data in aeroelastic experiments. The results highlight the critical role of rigorous calibration procedures and the complementary use of multiple measurement technologies in advancing the understanding of turbomachinery instabilities. The insights derived from this investigation shed light on a complex evolution of instability mechanisms and offer valuable recommendations for future experimental studies. The open-test case has been made accessible to the research community, and the presented data can be used directly to validate coupled aeroelastic simulations under challenging operating conditions, including non-linear blade deflections. Full article

Artificial Intelligence and machine learning are increasingly used to interrogate complex biological data. This systematic review evaluates their application to multi-omics for the molecular characterization of hematological malignancies, an area with unmet clinical need. We searched PubMed, Embase, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Xplore, and Web of Science from January 2015 to December 2024. Two reviewers screened records, extracted data, and used a modified appraisal emphasizing explainability, performance, reproducibility, and ethics. From 2847 records, 89 studies met inclusion criteria. Studies focused on acute myeloid leukemia (34), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (23), and multiple myeloma (18). Other hematological diseases were less frequently studied. Methods included Support Vector Machines, Random Forests, and deep learning (28, 25, and 24 studies). Multi-omics integration was reported in 23 studies. External validation occurred in 31 studies, and explainability in 19. The median diagnostic area under the curve was 0.87 (interquartile range 0.81 to 0.94); deep learning reached 0.91 but offered the least explainability. Artificial Intelligence and machine learning show promise for molecular characterization, yet gaps in validation, interpretability, and standardization remain. Priorities include external validation, interpretable modeling, harmonized evaluation, and standardized reporting with shared benchmarks to enable safe, reproducible clinical translation. Full article

Nanotheranostics combines therapeutic and diagnostic functions within multifunctional nanoparticle platforms to enable precision medicine. This review outlines a comprehensive framework for engineering nanotheranostic systems, focusing on core material composition, surface functionalization, and stimuli-responsive drug delivery. Targeting strategies—from ligand-based recognition to biomimetic interfaces—are examined alongside therapeutic modalities such as chemotherapy, photothermal and photodynamic therapies, gene silencing via RNA interference, and radio sensitization. We discuss advanced imaging techniques (fluorescence imaging FI), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and photoacoustic imaging for real-time tracking and treatment guidance. Key considerations include physicochemical characterization (e.g., article size, surface charge, and morphology), biocompatibility, in-vitro efficacy, and in-vivo biodistribution. We also address challenges such as rapid biological clearance, tumor heterogeneity, and clinical translation, and propose future directions for developing safe, adaptable, and effective nanotheranostic platforms. This review serves as a roadmap for advancing next-generation nano systems in biomedical applications. Full article

Introduction: Maxillary setback in orthognathic surgery has been extensively discussed regarding its effects on bone healing and facial soft tissue profile; however, its impact on upper airway volume remains unclear. Objective: We evaluate the influence of maxillary setback combined with counterclockwise (CCW) rotation of the occlusal plane on upper airway dimensions. Methods: A retrospective observational case series was conducted with eight patients diagnosed with Class II malocclusion who underwent orthognathic surgery involving maxillary setback and CCW mandibular rotation. All procedures were performed by the same surgeon. Preoperative (T1) and 6-month postoperative (T2) facial CT scans were analyzed using Dolphin Imaging software11.7 to measure airway volume (VOL), surface area (SA), and linear distances D1, D2 and D3. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon test with a 5% significance level. Results: Significant skeletal changes were observed, including 10.2 mm of mandibular advancement, 5.2 mm of hyoid advancement, and 4.1° of CCW rotation. Although increases in airway volume and surface area were noted, they did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.327 and p = 0.050, respectively), but suggesting a favorable trend toward airway adaptation. Conclusions: Maxillary setback combined with CCW rotation appears to safely correct Class II skeletal deformities without compromising upper airway space. These preliminary findings highlight the technique’s potential for both functional and aesthetic outcomes, warranting further long-term studies. Full article

This article presents the results of a rockfall analysis conducted for the limestone walls of a former quarry that is now used as an urban park. The performed simulations (2D statistical analysis using Rigid Body Impact Mechanics—RBIM and Discrete Element Modelling—DEM) enabled the determination of the maximum displacement range during the ballistic phase and the maximum rebound height at the slope base, which facilitated the delineation of a safe land-use zone. A hazard zone was also identified, within which public access must be strictly prohibited due to the risk posed by flying debris. Based on slope stability assessments (safety factor values and rockfall trajectories), recommendations were formulated for slope reinforcement measures and appropriate management actions for designated sections to ensure safe operation of the site. Three mitigation strategies were proposed: (1) no protective measures, (2) no structural reinforcements but with installation of a rockfall barrier, and (3) full-scale stabilisation to allow unrestricted access to the quarry walls. The first option—leaving slopes unsecured with only designated safety buffers—is not recommended. Full article

In microgrids, battery chargers/dischargers are used to manage power flow between the battery and the DC bus and to regulate the DC bus voltage, ensuring safe operating conditions for sources and loads. These actions contribute to enhancing the sustainability of the microgrid by improving energy efficiency, extending battery life, and ensuring reliable operation. The classical converter adopted to implement the battery chargers/dischargers is the boost converter, which avoids high current harmonic injection into the battery because of its continuous input current. But due to the discontinuous output current, it introduces high current harmonics into the DC bus. This also occurs in Sepic, Zeta, or other DC/DC converters with discontinuous input or output currents. One exception is the Cuk converter, which has both continuous input and output currents. However, in the Cuk converter, the intermediate capacitor voltage is higher than the input and output voltages, thus imposing high stress on the semiconductors and requiring a costly capacitor with high energy storage. Therefore, this paper proposes the design of a battery charger/discharger based on a non-electrolytic capacitor boost converter. This topology provides continuous input and output currents, which reduces harmonic component injection, extends battery life, and increases operation efficiency. Moreover, it requires a lower intermediate capacitor voltage, thereby enhancing reliability. The design of this battery charger/discharger requires an adaptive sliding-mode controller to ensure global stability and accurate bus voltage regulation. A formal stability analysis and design equations are provided. The proposed solution is validated through detailed simulations, while the adaptive sliding-mode controller is specifically tested using a detailed software-in-the-loop approach. Full article

The Sanqi–pine agroforestry (SPA) system is considered a sustainable agroforestry model. However, empirical studies that clearly elucidate the impact of Sanqi cultivation on soil fertility and the heavy metal content within the SPA system are still lacking. This study established monoculture Pinus armandii (MPA) and SPA systems to conduct a comparative analysis of dynamic changes in soil physicochemical properties and the heavy metal content of Sanqi and pine over one year (with semi-monthly sampling), followed by a comprehensive evaluation of soil fertility and heavy metal pollution. Following the land use conversion from MPA to SPA, there was a notable increase in soil moisture (SM), total nitrogen (TN), and nitrate nitrogen (NO₃⁻-N) levels within Sanqi soil. Conversely, total potassium (TK), ammonium nitrogen (NH₄⁺-N), plumbum (Pb), and chromium (Cr) levels experienced a significant reduction. In the case of pine soil, soil moisture (SM), pH levels, and ammonium nitrogen (NH₄⁺-N) content exhibited an increase. However, soil organic carbon (SOC), total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), plumbum (Pb), and chromium (Cr) contents all significantly decreased. The Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) demonstrated that Sanqi cultivation not only significantly enhanced soil fertility for Sanqi rather than pine but also reduced the heavy metal content in the soil of both Sanqi and pine within the SPA system. Furthermore, the Nemerow pollution index for both Sanqi and pine soils has decreased, transitioning the pollution status from relatively safe to safe. This suggests that the introduction of Sanqi promotes the sustainable development of the SPA system. Full article

High-definition (HD) maps are essential for safe and reliable autonomous driving, but their growing size and the need for real-time updates pose significant challenges for in-vehicle storage and communication efficiency. This study proposes a lightweight and scalable HD map provisioning system based on Geohash spatial indexing and Smart Roadside Units (Smart RSUs). The system divides HD map data into Geohash-based spatial blocks and enables vehicles to request only the map segments corresponding to their current location, reducing storage burden and communication load. To validate the system’s effectiveness, we constructed a simulation environment where multiple vehicle clients simultaneously request map data from a Smart RSU. Experimental results showed that the proposed Geohash-based approach achieved an average response time (RTT) of 1244.82 ms—approximately 296.3% faster than the conventional GPS-based spatial query method—and improved database query performance by 1072.6%. Additionally, we demonstrate the system’s scalability by adjusting Geohash levels according to road density, using finer blocks in urban areas and coarser blocks in rural areas. The hierarchical nature of Geohash also enables consistent integration of blocks with different resolutions. These results confirm that the proposed method provides an efficient and real-time HD map delivery framework suitable for dynamic and dense traffic environments. Full article

Long COVID is characterized by persistent symptoms associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. While high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and supplementation with antioxidants such as Triphala have demonstrated individual therapeutic benefits, their combined effects remain unclear. This study aimed primarily to evaluate the effects of an 8-week HIIT program on markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and exercise-related symptoms in individuals with long COVID, and secondarily to explore whether Triphala supplementation provided additional benefits. A total of 104 participants (aged 18–59 years) were randomized into three groups—control (placebo), HIIT (cycling for 28 min/day, 3 days/week), and combined (HIIT + Triphala, 1000 mg/day)—for 8 weeks. The biomarkers assessed included interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyls, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Following the intervention, significant reductions in IFN-γ, TNF-α, MDA, protein carbonyls, and rating of perceived exertion were observed in both the HIIT and combined groups (p < 0.05), with no significant differences between the two. SOD activity significantly increased in all groups, including the control group (p < 0.05), with no between-group differences. An 8-week HIIT program appears to be effective in reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and dyspnea in individuals with long COVID. Triphala supplementation did not provide any additional statistically significant benefit but was safe and well tolerated. Full article

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is a cluster of abnormal blood vessels in the brain that leads to severe neurological deficits, seizures, and fatal hemorrhagic stroke. Currently, there is no available drug treatment for CCM. Most CCMs are conservatively managed by observing change in appearance (MRI), recent hemorrhage, or any clinical symptoms. Neurosurgery is the only current treatment option, but it is only effective in a few cases. Since most CCM lesions are surgically inaccessible, when left untreated they lead to severe neurological deficits, seizures, and fatal hemorrhagic stroke. Hence, new non-invasive, safe, and effective treatment strategies are urgently needed. Recent research has identified gut microbiome dysbiosis and its innate immune response as the critical stimulus in experimental CCM pathogenesis, demonstrating the importance of the gut–brain axis in CCM. Importantly, CCM patients also manifest gut microbiome dysbiosis and gut barrier health can impact CCM disease course. This review highlights the emerging involvement of the gut microbiome in CCM pathogenesis and its potential as a therapeutic target. While preclinical data suggest mechanistic links, the lack of clinical intervention studies limits current applicability and underscores the need for translational research. Full article