Search Results (3,145)

Eggshell thickness is a critical indicator for evaluating egg breakage resistance and hatchability, yet traditional measurement methods remain destructive and inefficient. To address this, this study proposes a robust prediction approach by integrating Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT) feature optimization with an improved CatBoost algorithm. First, a joint strategy of Standard Normal Variate (SNV) and Multiplicative Scatter Correction (MSC) was employed to eliminate spectral scattering noise and enhance organic matrix fingerprint information. Subsequently, GBDT was introduced for nonlinear feature evaluation to adaptively screen the top 50 wavelengths, effectively mitigating the “curse of dimensionality” and multicollinearity in full-spectrum data. A CatBoost regression model was then constructed using an Ordered Boosting mechanism, supported by a dual anti-overfitting strategy that merged 10-fold nested cross-validation with Bootstrap resampling. Experimental results demonstrate that this method significantly outperforms traditional algorithms in both prediction accuracy and generalization. The coefficients of determination (R²) for the calibration and prediction sets reached 0.930 and 0.918, respectively, with a root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.008 mm. Residual analysis confirms that prediction errors follow a zero-mean Gaussian distribution, indicating that systematic bias was effectively eliminated. This research provides a reliable theoretical foundation and technical support for the intelligent grading of poultry egg quality. Full article

The safe and efficient operation of deep-sea towing systems is heavily governed by the highly nonlinear dynamic interaction between the flexible towing cable and complex seabed topographies. While existing studies accurately predict cable dynamics in mid-water or over flat seabeds, the transient responses—such as local stress concentrations and extreme tension fluctuations—induced by discontinuous topographies (e.g., stepped or 3D irregular seabeds) remain inadequately quantified. In this study, we develop an advanced 3D dynamic numerical model combining the lumped-mass finite element formulation with a modified non-linear penalty-based seabed-contact mechanics algorithm. This framework systematically evaluates the tension distribution, bending curvature, and spatial configuration shifts in the cable during the touchdown and detachment phases across inclined, stepped, and 3D seabeds. Quantitative validation against established benchmarks demonstrates robust accuracy. Results indicate that steeper seabed inclinations linearly reduce detachment time but exponentially amplify initial contact tension. Over-stepped terrains, “point-to-line” transient collisions trigger sudden tension spikes exceeding steady-state values by up to 45%. Furthermore, 3D irregular seabeds induce severe multi-directional spatial deformations, precipitating destructive whiplash effects at high towing speeds (e.g., m/s). These findings provide critical physical insights and a quantitative reference for optimizing tugboat maneuvering strategies and designing fatigue-resistant cables in complex sub-sea environments. Full article

Silver films are key building blocks for plasmonic and nanophotonic devices, whose optical performance and device reliability are highly sensitive to particulate contamination introduced during fabrication and operation. Herein, a non-destructive surface cleaning strategy specifically applicable to silver film systems is proposed, based on the synergistic regulation of the mechanical properties of a polymer layer and its interfacial adhesion to the silver film. Such regulation is achieved by tuning hydrogen-bond-mediated interactions within a modified poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) layer, enabling effective control over the locus of fracture during peeling, such that fracture preferentially occurs at the polymer/silver interface. Unlike conventional polymer-assisted cleaning methods that suffer from an inherent trade-off between bulk cohesion and interfacial adhesion, this approach decouples the two properties through molecular-level hydrogen-bond redistribution. As a result, particulate contaminants can be efficiently removed from the silver surface while preserving the structural integrity of the silver film. The proposed method achieves a particle removal efficiency of up to 98% for contaminants larger than 30 nm and can be stably applied to silver films with lateral dimensions ranging from 1 inch to 12 inches, demonstrating excellent scalability. By further adjusting the processing parameters and compositional ratios of the polymer layer, this strategy is expected to be adaptable to silver films with different thicknesses and structural configurations, providing a reliable surface cleaning solution for improving the performance and reliability of plasmonic and optoelectronic thin-film devices. Full article

Bovine mastitis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease primarily characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration and the destruction of mammary alveoli. It is a major cause of reduced milk yield and quality. The imbalance between antioxidant defenses and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which occurs due to the high metabolic activity of the mammary gland during the periparturient period, increases the incidence of mastitis. During early lactation, especially in high-yielding dairy cows, the massive synthesis and secretion of milk increase the energy demand of mammary tissue, leading to excessive ROS accumulation. This results in cell membrane disruption and, ultimately, antioxidant dysfunction in the mammary tissue. This study established an in vitro oxidative stress model by treating bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) with 2,2′-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH). The optimal concentration of 1000 μmol/L AAPH was determined using the CCK-8 assay. Model validation showed that, compared to the control group, ROS levels were significantly elevated (p < 0.001) and mitochondrial membrane potential was significantly decreased (p < 0.001) in the AAPH-treated group. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that AAPH treatment caused ultrastructural damage, including reduced microvilli, mitochondrial swelling, disappearance of cristae, and vacuolization. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that AAPH treatment significantly upregulated the mRNA and protein expression of AMPK, HMOX-1, mTOR, NOS, and SOD (p < 0.001), while significantly downregulating CYP1A1 expression (p < 0.001). Pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) effectively alleviated the oxidative stress damage caused by AAPH. This study successfully established an in vitro AAPH-induced oxidative stress model in BMECs and revealed its molecular mechanism of cellular damage. The damage occurs through modulation of the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway and the regulation of antioxidant-related gene expression. Full article

Aging and obesity accompanied with hormonal disequilibrium represent critical, inter-related risk factors for breast cancer, significantly influencing disease incidence, progression, and therapeutic outcomes. This review aims to elucidate the multifaceted biological mechanisms linking obesity and aging to breast carcinogenesis, with a particular focus on the emerging therapeutic and preventive potential of postbiotics as molecules targeting cellular events important for cancer growth and responsiveness. Despite continuous advancement, breast cancer therapy still poses several challenges, such as treatment-induced acquired resistance, which is boosted by the inflammatory phenotype of senescent cancerous cells, as well as undesired side effects resulting from the destruction of normal cells. Such a complex background of breast carcinogenesis and oncotherapy resistance opens avenues to search for new preventive approaches and adjunctive treatment regimens. Postbiotics demonstrate a variety of benefits due to their selective antineoplastic activity, as well as the cytoprotective potential associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-senescent properties. Pleiotropic effects of postbiotics make them a promising tool for counteracting cellular and physiological disturbances that favor breast cancer development, including age- and obesity-related factors. They are prospective adjunctive agents in oncotherapy, albeit their efficacy and safety need to be thoroughly evaluated in clinical studies prior to implementation in routine treatment modes. Full article

Habitat destruction is a major driver of biodiversity decline, yet how it reshapes multispecies coexistence by altering interaction structure remains unclear. We adopt a spatially explicit metacommunity model framework under a homogeneity assumption and introduce a tunable parameter controlling intransitive competition. Within this framework, we represent the system using a generalized Lotka–Volterra model to examine how coexistence mechanisms respond to habitat destruction. Our findings demonstrate that (1) coexistence is not driven by a single mechanism: under transitive competition, it highly relies on niche differentiation, whereas in intransitive structures, coexistence can be maintained even with low niche differentiation. (2) Habitat destruction compresses the feasible coexistence space, but regions dominated by different mechanisms respond asymmetrically, with niche-difference-driven coexistence shrinking and intransitive-dominated coexistence expanding under certain conditions. (3) The difference stems from habitat destruction, altering the relative proportions of intraspecific and interspecific competition, driving the community beyond the coexistence threshold. This reduces the probability of coexistence and reshapes the relative importance of several coexistence mechanisms. This finding provides a new theoretical perspective for biodiversity in fragmented landscapes. Full article

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by systemic inflammation, synovial hyperplasia, and progressive joint destruction. Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the supporting structures of teeth, has been increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to RA pathogenesis. Evidence suggests that both conditions share common immunological mechanisms and microbial triggers. This review summarizes the data linking RA with periodontitis, with particular focus on shared pathogenic pathways, microbial triggers, immune system alterations, and clinical relevance. Methods: Experimental, epidemiological, and clinical studies were evaluated to explore biological and clinical links between periodontitis and RA. Special emphasis was placed on the mucosal origins of RA, bacterial-mediated citrullination, autoantibody formation, and the role of the complement system. Results: Available epidemiological data indicate that individuals with RA present higher prevalence and greater severity of periodontitis. Periodontal pathogens, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, contribute to immune dysregulation through citrullination, and subsequent production of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), a hallmark of RA. Both diseases are characterized by chronic, uncontrolled inflammation, amplified by complement activation and neutrophil hyperactivity. Clinical evidence suggests that non-surgical periodontal therapy may reduce systemic inflammatory markers and improve RA disease activity. Conclusions: The relationship between RA and periodontitis appears to be bidirectional and the recognition of this interaction supports closer collaboration between rheumatologists and dental professionals. Future studies are required to clarify causality and determine whether management strategies can influence patient outcomes. Full article

This study evaluates the mechanical and thermal properties of bricks made from polylactic acid (PLA) and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET). A filament-based 3D printer was used with process parameters specific to PLA, while rPET—also known as recycled plastic—was obtained by grinding and compacting products. Brick samples of various dimensions were manufactured to conduct flexural, compressive, and tensile tests. Several samples were used for each test. On the other hand, a thermal conductivity analysis was performed to determine the internal temperature of dwellings, such as a house or a building. Thermal conductivity influences energy efficiency and the thermal comfort of occupants. The macrostructures observed in the NIKON microscope were examined, where the direction of the fibers and their compaction, which significantly influences thermal conductivity, can be seen. A 53.4% reduction in thermal conductivity was determined for the PLA brick compared to the commercial brick, while the rPET brick showed a 6.4% decrease. The evaluation of the tests carried out on the universal testing machine indicates that the brick made from rPET exhibits a higher maximum load and stress compared to the brick made from PLA in all tests. These results suggest that both the manufacturing process and the composition of the material have a significant impact on the mechanical and thermal properties of plastic bricks. In the flexural test, the recycled plastic brick withstood a maximum stress of 16 MPa and a maximum load of 5784 N. Similarly, in the compression test, the recycled plastic brick withstood a maximum load of 9471 N and a maximum stress of 5.83 MPa. During the tensile test, the rPET brick demonstrated a maximum load of 9203.92 N and a maximum stress of 5.64 MPa. These results show that bricks made from recycled plastic have better mechanical properties compared to polylactic acid bricks in the tests carried out and can therefore be considered for use in the construction industry. Full article

To address the low accuracy of traditional freshness detection/grading and poor adaptability to different shell colors in the duck egg industry, this study developed a non-destructive detection model and an integrated device for duck egg freshness based on machine vision combined with eggshell optical property analysis. A four-sided yolk transmission imaging system was designed, and accurate yolk region segmentation was achieved via grayscale conversion, a weighted improved Otsu algorithm for whole-egg segmentation, histogram equalization enhancement, and K-means clustering in the LAB color space. A relational model between the average four-angle yolk projected area ratio and Haugh Units (HU) freshness grades was constructed, with grading thresholds determined by constrained optimization combined with the Youden index to balance food safety and grading accuracy. Experimental results showed the model achieved an overall freshness grade discrimination accuracy of 91.3%, with a sensitivity of 97.1% and specificity of 98.9% for inedible Grade B (HU < 60) duck eggs and below. An automated testing device was further developed, adopting a roller-rotating motor collaborative mechanism for automatic flipping and imaging, and equipped with a 10 W/5500 K LED cool white light source to solve the problem of poor adaptability to different shell colors. The device achieved an overall discrimination accuracy of 88.5% with a detection time of ≤5 s per egg, and its host computer can real-time output the yolk area ratio, predicted HU value, and freshness level. This study provides a high-precision and low-cost technical solution for the refined grading of the poultry egg industry. Full article

Dam-break flows over erodible beds represent a complex fluid–solid interaction problem characterized by extreme turbulence and rapid morphological changes. This study investigates the dynamics of such flows over inclined granular beds by integrating an advanced Moving Particle Semi-implicit (MPS) method. To accurately resolve the transition between static and kinetic granular regimes, I introduce a state-dependent tangential friction model that explicitly distinguishes between sticking and sliding conditions based on local force balance. Furthermore, the momentum exchange between the fluid and solid phases is rigorously modeled using the porosity-dependent drag formulation. The numerical results demonstrate a distinct regime shift in energy dissipation: while low-inclination beds (0–$4\%$) promote distributed sediment transport, steep-inclination beds (8–$12\%$) trigger a localized “Shielding Effect”. In this regime, the surge’s horizontal kinetic energy is rapidly converted into vertical potential energy and frictional work, forming a deep sacrificial scour hole that acts as a topographical energy sink. This mechanism effectively mitigates the destructive potential of the surge in downstream areas. The proposed method provides a robust tool for predicting morphological feedback and designing topographical countermeasures for disaster mitigation in hydraulic and coastal environments. Full article

Background: This study deeply explores the influence of different dextrose equivalents (DE) values on room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) properties of maltodextrin (MD) and its luminescence mechanism. The potential applications of MD tablets in non-destructive detection for afterglow visualizing are also explored. Methods: MD tablets with different DE values were prepared to investigate their RTP properties and afterglow effects. MD tablets were validated for afterglow signals and phosphorescence lifetimes under varying environmental conditions. Additionally, the unique afterglow effect of MD was used to detect the uniformity of tablets. Theoretical calculations of MD monomers and dimers were performed using time-dependent density functional theory. Results: The results demonstrated that MD with different DE values exhibited RTP properties, with phosphorescence lifetimes from 186.91 to 618.85 ms. The afterglow signals and phosphorescence lifetimes of MD tablets were influenced by multiple environmental conditions, i.e., relative humidity, temperature, oxygen, ultraviolet light, etc. Based on the afterglow effect of the MD, it is possible to non-destructively detect the uniform tablet. MD is an RTP material regulated by its DE value. Its phosphorescence mechanism is governed by a clustering-triggered emission mechanism, which is dominated by the rich hydrogen bond network. The material’s stimuli-responsive properties and pronounced afterglow effect make it a potential application for non-destructive detection. Conclusions: This study not only investigates the stimulus-responsive behavior of MD but also discovers a common, safe, and edible stimulus-responsive RTP material. These findings provide a new method for non-destructive detection of drugs and reducing the potential pharmacological risks during production, storage, and transportation. Full article

As one of the most catastrophic geological hazards globally, landslides exhibit heightened risks due to their increasing frequency, destructive potential, and extensive spatial distribution. The primary objective of this study is to develop an integrated analytical framework to quantitatively evaluate the stability of variably shaped slopes under rainfall infiltration. The core hypothesis is that slope curvature significantly alters infiltration behavior and stress distribution, leading to morphology-dependent failure mechanisms. Employing Green-Ampt infiltration theory coupled with limit equilibrium analysis, we establish stability prediction models for three fundamental slope geometries (linear, concave, convex) under contrasting rainfall regimes (high-intensity vs. low-intensity precipitation). The derived analytical solutions reveal two critical phenomena: (1) progressive downward migration of the saturation front maintaining parallelism with slope surfaces during infiltration and (2) time-dependent stability deterioration following hyperbolic decay patterns. The proposed models are rigorously validated through numerical simulations employing finite element methods, which demonstrate remarkable congruence with theoretical predictions, showing safety factor discrepancies below 5% (ΔFs < 0.05). Particularly, concave slopes exhibit 18–22% faster destabilization rates compared to convex counterparts under equivalent rainfall conditions. The validated models elucidate the spatiotemporal evolution of matric suction and pore pressure distributions, providing quantitative insights into morphology-dependent failure thresholds. These findings advance predictive capabilities for rainfall-induced landslides through physics-based stability criteria, offering critical guidance for terrain-specific early warning systems and mitigation strategies in geohazard-prone regions. Full article

In emphysema, the alveolar septal structure is progressively destroyed, which is believed to be irreversible. However, as it has recently been linked to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) deficiency, we hypothesized that VEGF stimulation can promote lung cell proliferation/migration to reverse emphysema. Our sulfated caffeic acid dehydropolymer, CDSO3, was thus examined in vitro and in vivo, given its VEGF-stimulating activity via ferrous ion (Fe²⁺) chelation-mediated stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α). In lung epithelial/endothelial cells, CDSO3 promoted proliferation and wound closure by 1.6–3.0-fold at 10 μM; however, these effects were negated by excess FeSO₄ or an HIF-1α inhibitor, indicating an Fe²⁺- and HIF-1α-dependent mechanism. In rat models of established emphysema induced by cigarette smoke extract or the VEGF receptor antagonist SU5416, two-week lung administration of CDSO3 at 60 μg/kg from day 21 enabled: 68–79% recovery of exercise endurance and airspace enlargement/destruction; a 1.8-fold increase in proliferating cell nuclear antigen above healthy levels; normalization of cleaved caspase-3; restoration of HIF-1α; and a 1.3-fold increase in VEGF above healthy levels. In contrast, CDSO3 pre-chelated with Fe²⁺ was ineffective. In conclusion, Fe²⁺ chelation-mediated HIF-1α stabilization and VEGF stimulation via local lung delivery of CDSO3 can reverse established emphysema by promoting cell growth and survival. Full article

The object of the study is a single heated carbonaceous particle of relatively small size, 0.003 to 0.01 m. Main hypothesis: The formation of soot particles and black carbon particles is caused by the thermochemical destruction of dry organic matter of forest fuel and the mechanical fragmentation of coke residue. The aim of the study is to conduct numerical simulations of heat and mass transfer in a single heated carbonaceous particle, taking into account the soot formation process and assessing its fragmentation with regard to heat exchange with the external environment in a 2D setting. As part of this study, a new model of heat and mass transfer in a pyrolyzed carbonaceous particle was developed, taking into account its step-by-step fragmentation (fragmentation tree model with four secondary particle formations from the initial particle). The calculations resulted in the distributions of temperature and volume fractions of phases in the carbonaceous particle across various scenarios. Scenarios of surface fires (initial temperatures of 900 K and 1000 K), crown fires (1100 K), and a firestorm (1200 K) for typical vegetation (pine, spruce, birch) are considered. Cubic carbonaceous particles are considered in the approximation of a 2D mathematical model. To describe heat and mass transfer in the structure of the carbonaceous particle, a differential equation of thermal conductivity with corresponding initial and boundary conditions of the third type is used, taking into account the gross reaction in the kinetic scheme of pyrolysis and soot formation. Differential analogues of partial differential equations are solved using the finite difference method of second-order approximation. Options for using the developed mathematical model and probabilistic fragmentation criterion for assessing aerosol emissions are proposed. Recommendations: The suggested mathematical model must be incorporated with mathematical models of forest fire plume and aerosol transport in the upper layers of the atmosphere. Moreover, probabilistic criteria for health assessment must be developed for the practical use of the suggested mathematical model. Full article

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) are reshaping the therapeutic approach to advanced gastrointestinal cancers by integrating tumor-specific monoclonal antibodies with potent cytotoxic payloads to improve targeted tumor cell destruction while minimizing systemic exposure. Compared to traditional chemotherapy, trastuzumab deruxtecan has significantly improved objective response rates and overall survival in HER2-positive gastric and gastroesophageal junction tumors after trastuzumab-based therapy. This supports its role as an important second-line or later treatment option. The ongoing advancement of ADCs targeting CLDN18.2, TROP2, and CEACAM5 indicates that this therapeutic category will continue to expand across gastrointestinal neoplasms. Nonetheless, these advancements are accompanied by a specific and clinically significant toxicity profile. Hematologic suppression, gastrointestinal side effects, hepatotoxicity, and notably interstitial lung disease (ILD) are essential consequences that may need inpatient assessment and care. Interstitial lung disease (ILD), although uncommon, may be severe or lethal if not identified immediately and treated swiftly with medication cessation and corticosteroids. In hospitalized patients, distinguishing ADC-related toxicity from infection or disease progression is often difficult owing to overlapping clinical manifestations, requiring meticulous evaluation and interdisciplinary cooperation. As ADCs are integrated into earlier treatment lines and across a broader patient population, hospital systems must evolve to ensure prompt identification, consistent management protocols, and efficient collaboration between oncology and inpatient teams. This study analyzes the mechanisms, clinical effectiveness, and safety profile of ADCs in gastrointestinal oncology, pointing out the importance of institutional preparedness to safely incorporate these medicines into standard clinical practice. These features also align ADC therapy with personalized medicine by emphasizing biomarker-guided patient selection and individualized toxicity monitoring. Full article