Search Results (40,674)

This study proposes a geographically weighted (GW) quantile machine learning (GWQML) framework for soil moisture (SM) prediction, integrating spatial kernel functions with quantile-based prediction and uncertainty quantification. The framework incorporates satellite radar backscatter, meteorological re-analysis, and topographic variables, applied across 15 SM stations and six land use systems at the North Wyke Farm Platform, southwest England, UK. GWQML was implemented using Gaussian and Tricube spatial kernels across a range of kernel bandwidths (500–1500 m). Model performance was evaluated using both in-sample and Leave-One-Land-Use-Out validation schemes, and a global quantile machine learning model (QML) without spatial weighting served as the benchmark. GWQML achieved R² values up to 0.85 and prediction interval coverage probabilities up to 0.9, with intermediate kernel bandwidths (750–1250 m) offering the best balance between accuracy and uncertainty calibration. Spatial autocorrelation analysis using Moran’s I revealed a lower residual clustering under GWQML relative to the benchmark model, which suggests improved handling of local spatial variation. This study represents one of the first applications of geographically weighted kernel functions in a quantile machine learning framework for daily soil moisture prediction. The approach implicitly captures spatially varying relationships while delivering calibrated uncertainty estimates for scalable SM monitoring across heterogenous agricultural landscapes. Full article

This paper deals with a method for producing gypsum concrete by vibropressing ultra-stiff concrete mixtures with a water–gypsum ratio (W/G) of 0.25–0.35 (stiffness 50–55 s according to Vebe), as well as the method of designing the composition of such concrete. The research was carried out using mathematical experimental design. Experimental and statistical polynomial models of strength and average density dependences on technological factors such as moisture content in the gypsum concrete mixture, aggregate consumption, and vibropressing parameters (dynamic punch pressure during vibration and process duration) were obtained. Models of the aggregate quantity and granulometric composition influence on the gypsum concrete strength at constant compaction parameters and changes in the mixture moisture content were obtained. Based on the obtained models, a method for designing the composition of vibropressed gypsum concrete on dense aggregate was developed. According to the proposed method, the aggregate-to-gypsum ratio (A/G) is first found, taking into account the given strength and quality of the materials. Next, the optimal W/G ratio, which ensures maximum compaction, is calculated and, after that, the residual air volume and the component consumption are obtained. The method allows determining the composition of gypsum concrete on dense aggregate, compacted by vibropressing of superhard mixtures according to a given compressive strength after 1 day of hardening in the range from 15 to 44 MPa. It also allows you to take into account the operating parameters of the molding plant, the aggregate grain composition, and determine the optimal moisture content of the gypsum concrete mixture. Full article

We present new insights into post-sunrise ionospheric irregularities in Southeast Asia during the intense geomagnetic storm of 19–20 April 2024. By utilizing Total Electron Content (TEC) and Rate of TEC Change Index (ROTI) maps, along with ionosondes, we identified the emergence of post-sunset Equatorial Plasma Bubbles (EPBs)—plasma depletion structures and irregularities—in western Southeast Asia on 19 April. These EPBs moved eastward, and the irregularities dissipated before midnight after the EPBs covered approximately 10° of longitude. Interestingly, plasma density depletion structures persisted and turned westward after midnight until post-sunrise the following day. Concurrently, an increase in F-region height from midnight to sunrise, possibly induced by the storm’s electric field, facilitated the regeneration of irregularities in the residual plasma depletions during the post-sunrise period. The significant increase in F-region height was particularly pronounced in western Southeast Asia. As a result, post-sunrise irregularities expanded their latitudinal structure while propagating westward. These findings suggest that areas with decayed plasma depletion structures from post-sunset EPBs that last past midnight could be sites for creating post-sunrise irregularities during geomagnetic storms. The storm-induced electric fields produce EPBs and ionospheric irregularities at longitudes where the surviving plasma depletion structures of post-sunset EPBs are present. Full article

The rising demand for aluminium and environmental concerns highlight the need for a circular economy using recycled alloys. This study examines the effect of shot peening on the high-cycle fatigue life of secondary AlZn10Si8Mg alloys with different iron contents: Alloy A (0.14 wt.% Fe) and Alloy B (0.56 wt.% Fe). Although both alloys showed similar tensile properties, Alloy B had higher porosity and finer β-Al₅FeSi intermetallics. Shot peening was applied at 100% and 1000% coverage to evaluate changes in surface roughness, porosity, residual stresses, and fatigue performance. The treatment significantly reduced surface-connected porosity via plastic deformation, enhancing fatigue life despite increased roughness. Fatigue tests showed a 21% increase in fatigue limit for Alloy A and a 6% gain for Alloy B at higher coverage. Fractographic analysis revealed that 95% of fatigue cracks initiated at surface pores. Residual stress measurements confirmed compressive stresses were limited to the near-surface layer, with minimal influence on subsurface crack propagation. Overall, shot peening proves to be an effective method for improving fatigue resistance in recycled aluminium alloys, even in alloys with elevated iron content, reinforcing their potential for structural applications under cyclic loading. Full article

In many practical applications, data collected over time often exhibit autocorrelation, which, if unaccounted for, can lead to biased or misleading statistical inferences. To address this issue, we propose a varying-coefficient additive model for density-valued responses, incorporating a functional auto-regressive (FAR) error process to capture serial dependence. Our estimation procedure consists of three main steps, utilizing spline-based methods after mapping density functions into a linear space via the log-quantile density transformation. First, we obtain initial estimates of the bivariate varying-coefficient functions using a B-spline series approximation. Second, we estimate the error process from the residuals using spline smoothing techniques. Finally, we refine the estimates of the additive components by adjusting for the estimated error process. We establish theoretical properties of the proposed method, including convergence rates and asymptotic behavior. The effectiveness of our approach is further demonstrated through simulation studies and applications to real-world data. Full article

This study systematically explored the interaction mechanisms between two KRAS G12C inhibitors (Sotorasib and Adagrasib) and human serum albumin (HSA) via UV-vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy, and molecular docking methods. The experimental findings demonstrated that both drugs caused static quenching of HSA fluorescence, with binding constants of 13.64 × 10³ M⁻¹ (Sotorasib) and 63.67 × 10³ M⁻¹ (Adagrasib), demonstrating significant selectivity differences in their binding affinities. UV spectral analysis demonstrated distinct microenvironmental perturbations: Sotorasib and Adagrasib induced a shift (∆λ = 7 nm and ∆λ = 8 nm, respectively) at 211 nm, consistent with altered polarity in HSA’s binding pockets. Fluorescence spectroscopy confirmed a 1:1 binding stoichiometry, with Stern-Volmer analysis validating static quenching as the dominant mechanism. Three-dimensional fluorescence spectra further highlighted Adagrasib’s stronger conformational impact, reducing tyrosine and tryptophan residue fluorescence intensities by 16% (Peak 1) and 10% (Peak 2), respectively, compared to Sotorasib. Molecular docking revealed divergent binding modes: Sotorasib occupied Sudlow Site I via three hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions (∆G = −24.60 kJ·mol⁻¹), whereas Adagrasib bound through one hydrogen bond and hydrophobic forces (∆G = −30.92 kJ·mol⁻¹), with stability differences attributed to structural characteristics. This study uses multispectral technology and molecular docking to reveal the binding mechanism of Sotorasib and Adagrasib with HSA, providing a theoretical basis for designing highly targeted albumin nanocarriers. The strong binding properties of Adagrasib and HSA may reduce the toxicity of free drugs, providing direction for the development of long-acting formulations. Full article

In this paper, we propose an ensemble approach for the intelligent fault diagnosis of machinery, which consists of six feature selection methods and classifiers. In the proposed approach, six filters, based on distinct metrics, are utilized. Each filter is combined with an improved sparse representation classifier (ISRC) to form a base model, in which the ISRC is an improved version of a sparse representation classifier and has the advantages of high classification accuracy and being less time consuming than the unimproved version. For each base model, the filter selects a feature subset that is used to train and test the ISRC, where the two hyper-parameters involved in the filter and ISRC are optimized by the binary particle swarm optimization algorithm. The outputs of six base models are aggregated through the cumulative reconstruction residual (CRR), where the CRR is devised to replace the commonly used voting strategy. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified on six mechanical datasets involving information about bearings and gears. In particular, we conduct a detailed comparison between CRR and voting and carry out an intensive exploration into the question of why CRR is superior to voting in the ensemble model. Full article

This study presents a novel approach to understanding fatigue and crack growth phenomena by benchmarking experimental observations with numerical simulations. We introduced controlled residual stress fields away from notch-induced crack nucleation sites and analyzed their interaction with crack nucleation and growth. Surprisingly, our findings revealed that the introduction of generally beneficial compressive residual stresses had a counter-intuitive negative impact on product fatigue life. Despite daunting challenges in applying classical fatigue principles to describe crack nucleation and growth, our numerical simulations provided valuable insights, capturing the trend of observed crack paths, albeit not their velocity. This research sheds light on the complex interplay between residual stresses and crack propagation, offering important considerations for fatigue analysis and product design. Full article

Xylanase was isolated from a newly isolated Mangrovibacter plantisponsor UMTKB-3 strain. The response surface methodology was employed to optimize extracellular xylanase production; the best experimental value (25 ± 0.12 U/mL) was obtained when using 16 g/L of tryptone, 15 g/L of yeast extract, 15 g/L of NaCl, and an initial optical density of 0.2 at 600 nm. The optimized xylanase production was enhanced by five-fold compared to the pre-optimized conditions. Maximum xylanase activity was measured at 50 °C and pH 6, using xylan as the substrate. The enzyme maintained more than 98.9% of its initial activity at temperatures ranging from 45 to 60 °C. Xylanase exhibited a higher stability in the presence of metal ions: residual activities of 190%, 97.1%, and 81.1% were measured in the presence of MnCl₂, FeSO₄, and NiCl₂, respectively. Moreover, the application of M. plantisponsor xylanase to improve bread quality was investigated. The rate of increase in firmness during storage was lower in xylanase-supplemented bread compared with control bread. Supplementing the bread with xylanase resulted in increased elasticity and extensibility, as well as an increase in volume and a decrease in density. These findings suggest that our enzyme is a promising candidate for food industry applications, particularly in the baking industry, for promoting human health. Full article

Waterflooding, a key method for secondary hydrocarbon recovery, has been employed since the early 20th century. Over time, the role of water chemistry and ions in recovery has been studied extensively. Low-salinity water (LSW) injection, a common technique since the 1930s, improves oil recovery by altering the wettability of reservoir rocks and reducing residual oil saturation. Recent developments emphasize the integration of LSW with various recovery methods such as CO₂ injections, surfactants, alkali, polymers, and nanoparticles (NPs). This article offers a comprehensive perspective on how LSW injection is combined with these enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques, with a focus on improving oil displacement and recovery efficiency. Surfactants enhance the effectiveness of LSW by lowering interfacial tension (IFT) and improving wettability, while ASP flooding helps reduce surfactant loss and promotes in situ soap formation. Polymer injections boost oil recovery by increasing fluid viscosity and improving sweep efficiency. Nevertheless, challenges such as fine migration and unstable flow persist, requiring additional optimization. The combination of LSW with nanoparticles has shown potential in modifying wettability, adjusting viscosity, and stabilizing emulsions through careful concentration management to prevent or reduce formation damage. Finally, building on discussions around the underlying mechanisms involved in improved oil recovery and the challenges associated with each approach, this article highlights their prospects for future research and field implementation. By combining LSW with advanced EOR techniques, the oil industry can improve recovery efficiency while addressing both environmental and operational challenges. Full article

With the global population steadily rising, the demand for sustainable protein sources has become increasingly urgent. Traditional animal- and plant-based proteins face challenges related to scalability, resource efficiency, and environmental impact. In this context, single-cell protein has emerged as a promising alternative. Derived from microorganisms such as algae, bacteria, fungi, and yeast, single-cell protein offers a high nutritional profile- including all essential amino acids and vitamins—while enabling rapid production, minimal land and water requirements, and no generation of greenhouse gas emissions. A particularly compelling advantage of single-cell protein is its ability to be produced from agro-industrial waste, converting low-cost residues into valuable nutritional resources and contributing to environmental sustainability. Among these waste streams, lignocellulosic biomass from agricultural and forestry residues stands out as a renewable, biodegradable, and abundant feedstock. This review explores the potential of lignocellulosic waste as a substrate for single-cell protein production, emphasizing both its environmental advantages and nutritional value. It highlights the single-cell protein role as a sustainable and scalable alternative to conventional protein sources. The review also identifies key scientific, economic, and regulatory challenges, and recognizes the importance of targeted investments, particularly in policy development, public awareness, and technological innovation, to enable the broader adoption and acceptance of single-cell protein -based products. Full article

Filler dramatically affects the rheology of cold-patched asphalt (CPA) slurry, as well as the related mechanical properties; its physical and chemical properties will also affect the road performance of cold-patch asphalt mixture (CPAM). In order to optimize the filler composition ratio for CPAM, this study uses an orthogonal test to determine the optimal ratio of bentonite to cement, partially substituting mineral powder. Additionally, a performance verification test suitable for CPAM is designed and performed. The results indicate that the total filler dosage is 4.3%, the proportion of mineral powder replacement is 50%, and the ratio of bentonite to cement is 0.2:1; the forming strength, residual stability, and freeze–thaw splitting strength of CPAM are improved by 7.37%, 20.95%, and 17.13%, respectively, and the water stability is significantly enhanced. Scanning electron microscope images show that the cement and bentonite are dispersed as fillers in CPA, and a hydration reaction occurs, which reveals the mechanism of the optimized cold-patched filler ratio related to performance enhancement. Full article

Background and Objectives: The treatment of choice for aortic valve stenosis in patients with low and intermediate risk is still debated. In this study, we compared the outcomes of low-to-intermediate surgical risk patients who underwent surgical versus transcatheter aortic valve replacement for severe aortic valve stenosis (AS). Methods: Between 2015 and 2019, 326 consecutive patients with severe AS underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), while 341 patients underwent surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). The two populations were propensity score matched by age, gender and Euroscore II. The survival rate of patients during median 5-year follow-up between SAVR and TAVI patients was evaluated. Results: After propensity score matching, 94 pairs of patients were compared and the mean standard deviation age of patients, sex (female) and Euroscore II were 77.5 (6.6) versus 76.6 (6.5) years, 51.1% versus 51.1% and 3.3 (1.88)% versus 3.0 (1,84)%, respectively. Permanent pacemaker implantation was higher in transcatheter group (21.3% versus 1.1%, p < 0.001). No difference in length of ICU and in-hospital stay was observed, p = 0.08 and p = 0.12, respectively. During follow-up the presence of more than moderate insufficiency of the prosthetic valve postoperatively was significantly less frequent in the surgical versus transcatheter (0% versus 14.3%). Survival rates over 1, 3 and 5 years did not differ in surgical versus transcatheter group (93.6%, 81.9% and 62.8% versus 86.2%, 69.1% and 59.6%, respectively (p = 0.16)). Conclusions: Short- and long-term survival rates were similar in patients who underwent transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement, whereas SAVR showed superior results concerning the postoperative detection of residual regurgitation and need for PPM. It is extremely important to personalize the choice of treatment according to patients’ age, clinical status and life expectancy. Full article

Hybrid systems combining animal and plant proteins are promising for developing sustainable, high-protein foods. However, structural incompatibility between proteins like casein and pea protein hinders the formation of stable systems such as gels. This study explores pH-shifting (alkalization at pH 12 followed by neutralization) as an innovative strategy to improve pea protein functionality and compatibility in hybrid gels. Modified pea protein showed increased solubility, reduced particle size, higher zeta potential, and decreased intrinsic fluorescence intensity, indicating conformational changes and exposure of buried tryptophan residues. These structural changes influenced gel behavior depending on the protein ratio (casein/pea—80:20, 50:50, 20:80). Gels with higher pea content showed increased hardness and water-holding capacity, while in casein-rich gels, hardness decreased, likely due to altered protein–protein interactions. This is the first study to systematically apply pH-shifting to enhance the compatibility between pea protein and casein in high-protein gels, integrating structural and functional analyses. The results demonstrate the potential of pH-shifting as a sustainable and effective approach for improving plant protein performance in hybrid formulations. Full article

Objective: The objective of this paper is to define “poor candidates” and to conduct an analysis of preoperative selection criteria, considering factors related to the patient, tumor burden, and histopathological characteristics, in the case of patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) FIGO III-IV with a low probability of optimal cytoreduction. Methodology: The authors of this narrative review conducted an analysis of articles published over a 20-year period (2005–2025), with the following selection criteria for the topics of the papers: advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (FIGOIII-IV), surgical indications in advanced ovarian cancer, poor candidates for surgery, and dependence between surgery and histopathologic and molecular type of EOC. They used using PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus as databases. The results of the analysis were organized into three large chapters that grouped patient-related factors, tumor burden-specific factors, and histopathological criteria. Results: The authors identify a series of criteria with a high risk of unfavorable postoperative evolution, which led to delayed chemotherapy treatment and suboptimal management. These criteria are related to the patient’s field (ECOG > 3, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) > 2, BMI > 25–30, hypoalbuminemia, hypokalemia), imaging or intraoperative factors predictive for residual tumor, and histopathological or genetic factors (presence of BRCA mutation favors optimal cytoreduction even in cases with high tumor burden; in the case of low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma, surgical intervention is recommended even if there are suboptimal resection criteria, accepting resection > 1 cm due to the poor response to specific chemotherapy treatment). Conclusions: Considering all these aspects, patient selection for primary debulking surgery (PDS) or NACT (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) and interval debulking surgery (IDS) should be conducted in oncological surgery centers highly specialized in gynecological neoplasms, thus ensuring an optimal therapeutic pathway for patients with EOC. Full article