Search Results (51,223)

Unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH), a highly toxic rocket propellant, remains a significant environmental concern in Kazakhstan due to repeated rocket stage falls near the Baikonur Cosmodrome. This study integrates chemical analysis with stochastic contamination transport modeling to evaluate the persistence and migration of UDMH transformation products (TPs) in soils collected 15 years after the rocket crash. Vacuum-assisted headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Vac-HS-SPME-GC-MS) was used to determine five major TPs. Among these, pyrazine (PAN) and 1-methyl-1H-pyrazole (MPA) were consistently detected at concentrations ranging from 0.04–2.35 ng g⁻¹ and 0.06–3.48 ng g⁻¹, respectively. Stochastic simulations performed with HYDRUS-1D indicated that the long-term persistence of these compounds is mainly controlled by physical nonequilibrium transport processes, including diffusion-limited exchange, weak sorption, and slow inter-domain mass transfer, rather than by degradation. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that low dispersivity and diffusion coefficients enhance solute retention within immobile domains, maintaining residual levels over extended periods. The results demonstrate the efficacy of combined long-term monitoring and predictive modeling frameworks for assessing contamination dynamics in rocket impact zones. Full article

This work analyzes the hydrodynamic behavior of a magnetorheological valve, considering the microscopic fluid characteristics to generate a damper force. The magnetorheological fluid is composed of ferromagnetic particles dispersed in a non-magnetic carrier fluid, whose mechanical resistance depends on the magnetic field intensity. In the absence of a magnetic field, the magnetorheological fluid behaves as a liquid whose viscosity depends on the particle volume fraction. Conversely, the presence of a magnetic field generates particle chain-like structures that inhibit fluid motion, thereby regulating flow in the control valve. The mathematical model employs the continuity and momentum equations, the Bingham model, and the boundary conditions at the solid–liquid interfaces to determine the flow field. The results show the fluid hydrodynamic response under different flow conditions depending on dimensionless parameters such as the pressure gradient, the field-independent viscosity, the yield stress, the particle volume fraction, the Bingham number, the Mason number, and the critical Mason number. For a pressure gradient of $\Gamma =-10$, the flow rate inside the valve (with particle volume fraction $\varphi =0.2$) results in ${\overline{Q}}_{T,x}=0.34$, $0.06$, and 0 when the magnetic field is 80, 120, and 160 kA m⁻¹, respectively. Likewise, when the magnetic field increases from 80 to 160 kA m⁻¹, the damping capacity increases by $88\%$ when $\varphi =0.2$ and $128\%$ when $\varphi =0.3$ compared to the Newtonian viscous damping. This work contributes to our understanding of semi-active damping devices for flow control. Full article

This paper investigates the collection of aerosol particles (APs), ranging from 0.002 μm to 0.2 μm in diameter, by solid hydrometeors such as cloud ice, snow, and graupel. It specifically examines electrostatic scavenging (ESS) of APs and compares it with our previously studied scavenging by cloud droplets and raindrops. ESS by solid hydrometeors is contrasted with other scavenging mechanisms. The original two-moment aerosol scheme, which includes prognostic equations for the number and mass of APs within the numerical model, is employed in this work. It is concluded that ice crystals are most effective at electrostatic scavenging of APs compared to other solid hydrometeors. The reduction in the total mass of APs in the air caused by ESS from liquid hydrometeors exceeded six times the reduction caused by ESS from cloud ice after one hour of integration. ESS by solid hydrometeors increases the relative aerosol precipitation mass (RAPM) by less than 0.1%, whereas ESS by liquid hydrometeors raises RAPM by over 24%. Full article

Background: Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecological malignancy in developed countries. While early-stage disease has favorable outcomes, advanced or recurrent EC remains associated with poor prognosis. Novel prognostic markers are needed to refine risk stratification. Systemic inflammation-based indices such as Pan-Immune Inflammation Value (PIV), Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI), and Systemic Immune Inflammation Index (SII) have shown prognostic potential in solid tumors. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 78 patients with endometrioid EC who had undergone hysterectomy with adnexectomy and lymphadenectomy. Demographic, clinicopathological, and laboratory data were extracted from electronic medical records. PIV, SII, and SIRI were calculated from the preoperative complete blood counts. Survival was assessed using Kaplan–Meier analysis, while prognostic factors were determined using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Results: The median age was 59 years, and 64.1% of the patients presented with early-stage disease. A high PIV (≥802) was significantly associated with a shorter overall survival (64 vs. 111 months, p < 0.001). PIV demonstrated the highest discriminatory accuracy (AUC = 0.776), followed by the SII (0.747) and SIRI (0.718). Univariate analysis identified that age, grade, LVSI, PNI, stage, distant metastasis, and high PIV, SII, SIRI, and NLR were predictors of poor survival. Multivariate analysis confirmed grade, distant metastasis and SIRI ≥ 1.5 as independent prognostic factors. Conclusions: Inflammation-based indices, particularly PIV and SIRI, correlated with survival outcomes in patients with EC. The SIRI retained an independent prognostic value, whereas PIV showed a strong discriminatory capacity. Incorporating these indices into established risk models may improve prognostic precision and support individualized management. Full article

Microporous membranes are frequently used to remove or concentrate suspended solids. To maximize filtration efficiency for certain high-value liquids, a microporous membrane with a nontraditional asymmetric topology was recently developed to treat bio-based liquids, such as the isolation of proteins/enzymes from concentrates or the concentration of active cells from cultivation media. In this study, compared with both asymmetric and symmetric membranes, we reveal the unique filtration properties of “upper-stream open” asymmetric membrane using four types of fluids comprising monodispersed micro-hydrogels with sizes ranging from 294 to 517 nm. The results indicate that the internal pore structures of the membranes significantly affect the retention of microhydrogels of identical sizes. Asymmetric membranes offer considerable advantages in terms of retention efficiency and particle localization. By applying four classical blocking models along with adsorption models, the primary blockage mechanisms in asymmetric membranes for microgels of different sizes were explored. These results offer a better understanding of the interaction between the membrane and filtrate, assist in membrane selection, and elucidate the experimental results of membrane filtration. Full article

This study investigates the valorization of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) residues—specifically bottom ash with slag (BA + S) and fly ash (FA)—through alkaline activation in geopolymer and cementitious systems. The research demonstrates that alkali activation significantly improves mechanical properties, with compressive strengths up to 45.9 MPa for cement mortars and 33.2 MPa for geopolymers. A key innovation includes the quantification of hydrogen gas release during activation, with up to 72.5 dm³/kg H₂ from BA + S, offering insights into binder design and potential green hydrogen recovery. Environmental leachability assessments confirmed that activated BA + S immobilizes heavy metals effectively, although FA showed higher barium and lead leaching. Morphological analysis (SEM, granulometry) revealed microstructural changes enhancing reactivity. Additionally, a practical swelling test is proposed for early detection of expansion risk. The findings contribute to the development of sustainable, high-performance binders from waste, with implications for circular economy and energy valorization strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Salivary volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are promising noninvasive biomarkers for a wide range of diseases. While glandular saliva, secreted by salivary glands, is a relatively pure biofluid, whole saliva is a complex mixture containing oral microbiota, food debris, and desquamated epithelial cells. Therefore, a comprehensive comparison of the VOC profiles of these two types of saliva is essential to identify biologically relevant compounds. In this study, we aimed to establish a reliable method for VOC profiling from small saliva volumes and identify VOCs that reflect the biological differences between glandular and whole saliva. Methods: We developed a protocol combining MonoTrap extraction with dichloromethane, allowing the analysis of VOCs from just 100 µL of saliva. To address the issue of sampling-derived artifacts, we implemented a two-step blank analysis to systematically exclude compounds originating from the collection device. Results: Our analysis successfully identified a total of 72 VOCs. Following blank analysis, we systematically excluded 15 artifacts originating from the sampling device. Subsequent orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and Wilcoxon signed-rank test (using variable importance for prediction (VIP) > 1.0 and q < 0.05) identified 10 key VOCs that were significantly higher in whole saliva than in glandular saliva. These compounds included isobutyric acid, isovaleric acid, 4-methylvaleric acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, indole, skatole, methyl mercaptan, 1-propanol, δ-valerolactam, and acetaldehyde. Most of these compounds originate from the metabolic activities of the oral microbiome, suggesting that the distinct VOC profile of whole saliva is predominantly influenced by microbial activity. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated the effectiveness of this method for identifying biologically relevant VOCs from relatively small sample volumes. The identified VOC profiles highlight the contribution to the discovery of non-invasive biomarkers for oral health and serve as a solid foundation for future research into clinical applications. Full article

This research evaluated deficit irrigation effects on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth, yield, and quality in semi-arid Pakistan during 2023–2024. Four treatments were applied: 100% ETc (control), 80% ETc, 60% ETc, and 40% ETc used a randomized complete block design. The treatment with 80% ETc maintained similar yields as full irrigation. It improved water use efficiency from 1.25 kg/m³ to 1.39 kg/m³. Plant height, SPAD values, and leaf area decreased with increasing water stress. Fruit quality parameters, including total soluble solids, improved under moderate deficit conditions. Moderate deficit irrigation (80% ETc) represents an optimal strategy for sustainable tomato production in water-scarce environments. Full article

Palm oil is among the most produced plant oils in the world and is solid at room temperature. This study aims to produce a palm oil-based lapping solution that contributes to sustainable manufacturing. A palm oil-based lapping solution was compared with grease and industrial lapping solutions. Lapping processes were conducted on cylindrical spur gear wheels following the Taguchi L₂₇ experimental design, utilizing three distinct RPMs and varying times. The average surface roughness value after the lapping procedure diminished by 39.45% with the palm oil lapping solution, demonstrating greater effectiveness than the other treatments. The most significant percentage change among all lapping solutions was −59.06%, achieved with palm oil at 32 rpm for 10 min. On the other hand, the Taguchi L₂₇ signal-to-noise analysis shows that the palm oil lapping solution yielded the optimal outcome at 50 rpm and 16 min. A palm oil-based lapping solution was seen as capable of replacing mineral oil-based lapping solutions. Full article

In this present study, the efficiency of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) in increasing the yields of extraction of starch and polyphenols from Canna indica L. (Canna) rhizomes were analyzed, along with its influence on the physiochemical properties of the extracted compounds. Extraction parameters (temperature, time, and solid-to-liquid ratio) were optimized through Box–Behnken response surface design (BBD). The physiochemical and functional properties of starch and polyphenols were investigated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the swelling and solubility index, oil and water absorption index, total polyphenol yield, and antioxidant activity assays (DPPH and ORAC). The starch yield obtained from Canna at the optimum extraction conditions (temperature 40 °C, time 10 min, and solid-to-liquid ratio 1:30 g/mL) was 19.81%. The obtained starch yield was found to be significantly higher than the yield attained through the conventional extraction method without adverse changes in the physicochemical and functional properties. The total polyphenol extraction yield from the Canna rhizome, through UAE, was significantly higher (1061.72 mg GAE/100 g) than that of the conventional method. The antioxidant activity of bioactive compounds was proportional to the attained polyphenol yield. Our results suggest that UAE optimized conditions efficiently and improved Canna starch and polyphenol extraction yields while preserving their functional properties. Full article

Pipe conveyors provide an environmentally friendly alternative to open-troughed bulk solids conveyance, particularly for long or complex routing applications. However, the sustainability of this technology is compromised by unstable operations. Complex routing, operational variations, and environmental factors create uneven contact forces, triggering belt rotation. This is a critical failure mode that requires continuous monitoring throughout the conveyor’s lifecycle. Insufficient failure data represents a typical challenge for this application. This study hypothesized technological principles that constitute the minimum requirements for enabling the scaling of industrial applications of belt rotation monitoring. Enabling technologies were adopted to foster innovation, and a physical prototype was implemented to address data scarcity for this failure mode. Using a controller-responder wireless network of ESP32 Industrial Internet of Things devices, we developed a belt-independent measurement system with multiparameter capability. Key criteria for detecting unsafe operational states and a criticality-based approach for determining optimal measuring unit quantities were established. The measurement results demonstrated suitable precision for digitization objectives: overlap angle (3.3107° ± 16.7562°), pipe diameter (+13.3850 ± 7.2114 mm), and overlap length (−26.2750 ± 25.1536 mm), based on 307 samples with a latency of 350.1303 ms. The framework demonstrates potential for industrial deployment with acceptable performance for real-time monitoring. Full article

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains one of the most aggressive solid tumors, characterized by marked molecular heterogeneity and a complex tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent evidence highlights the pivotal role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating tumor progression, immune evasion, angiogenesis, and stromal remodeling. This review synthesizes current insights into miRNA-mediated molecular pathways that modulate the TME in HNSCC and discusses emerging therapeutic strategies, including nanocarrier- and exosome-based miRNA delivery systems, targeting these molecules. Key miRNAs, including miR-21, miR-146a, and miR-221, orchestrate bidirectional signaling between cancer cells, fibroblasts, and immune infiltrates, thereby shaping tumor aggressiveness and therapy resistance. Advances in nanotechnology have facilitated the development of miRNA-based therapeutics—such as mimics, antagomiRs, and exosome-mediated systems—capable of restoring physiological expression patterns and reprogramming the TME toward an anti-tumor state. However, clinical translation remains hindered by challenges in targeted delivery, molecular stability, and tumor heterogeneity. By integrating molecular and translational perspectives, this review underscores how miRNA-targeting strategies may evolve into a new generation of precision therapies, bridging the gap between molecular oncology and personalized treatment of head and neck cancer. Full article

Ultra-high-voltage direct current (UHVDC) wall bushings are critical components in DC transmission systems, ensuring insulation integrity and operational reliability. In recent years, surface discharge incidents induced by charge accumulation at the gas–solid interface have become increasingly prominent. A comprehensive understanding of the electric field distribution and charge accumulation behavior of wall bushings under UHVDC is therefore essential for improving their safety and stability. In this work, an electrostatic field model of a ±800 kV UHVDC wall bushing core was developed using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.3. Based on this, a geometrically scaled model of the bushing core was further established to investigate charge distribution characteristics along the gas–solid interface under varying voltage amplitudes, application durations, and practical operating conditions. The results reveal that the maximum surface charge density occurs near the geometric corner of the core, with charge accumulation increasing as the applied voltage amplitude rises. Over time, the accumulation exhibits a saturation trend, approaching a steady state after approximately 480 min. Moreover, under actual operating conditions, the charge accumulation at the gas–solid interface increases by approximately 40%. These findings provide valuable insights for the design optimization of UHVDC wall bushings, thereby contributing to improved insulation performance and enhanced long-term operational reliability of DC transmission systems. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Primary Cutaneous Cribriform Apocrine Carcinoma (PCCAC) is a rare, inert low-grade cutaneous malignancy that is diagnosed on histopathologic assessment. PCCAC usually presents in middle-aged adults as a solitary, subcutaneous nodule on the extremities. Characterized by anastomosing tubules and solid/cribriform nests of atypical epithelial cells generating a sieve-like display, the tumor is a histopathological variant of apocrine metaplasia of the skin. PCCAC also follows characteristic staining patterns. It is important to distinguish PCCAC from other similar histological variants, which may hold more grievous indications. Case Presentation: A 47-year-old female presented with an enlarging, itchy growth of several months on her back. On physical exam, an indurated pink, nontender papule of 8 mm on the left lateral side wall was noted. Histopathology demonstrated a well-circumscribed, pandermal tumor composed of anastomosing solid and cribriform nests, tubules, and cords of mildly atypical, eosinophilic epithelial cells forming a glandular lumina. An immunohistochemical study revealed the tumoral epithelium to express CK7, CK5/6, BER-EP4, CD117 (C-kit), and S100. Positive EMA and CEA staining highlighted intratumoral glandular ductal differentiation and apocrine secretion. Immunohistochemical stains for CK20, GATA-3, and p63 were negative. Conclusions: We present this case to distinguish the histological attributes of PCCAC and help differentiate it from more concerning visceral metastatic malignancies. We follow with a narrative review of the histopathologic differential for PCCAC and feature reconciliation of corresponding staining patterns reported in the literature. Full article

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine tumour with limited treatment options and a poor prognosis. Hypoxia, a hallmark of solid tumours, contributes to therapeutic resistance and tumour progression. Gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR) is known to be overexpressed in SCLC; however, its regulation under hypoxic conditions is not well described. In this study, we demonstrate that hypoxia significantly enhances GRPR expression in SCLC cell lines, COR-L24 and DMS79, as confirmed by Western blot, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometric analysis of binding with fluorescein isothiocyanate–labelled bombesin (BBN-FITC), a known GRPR ligand. To exploit this upregulation, we synthesised a previously discovered butylated neuropeptide antagonist (BU peptide) using a new method of solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) by Boc chemistry and evaluated its therapeutic potential. BU peptide exhibited potent, dose-dependent cytotoxicity in both cell lines, with significantly greater efficacy under hypoxic conditions compared to normoxia. Mechanistic studies revealed that BU peptide inhibits GRP–GRPR-mediated activation of the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signalling pathways, known to be key regulators of tumour cell survival and proliferation. Moreover, BU peptide induced robust caspase 3/7-mediated apoptosis, especially under hypoxic conditions. These findings suggest that GRPR is a hypoxia-inducible target in SCLC and demonstrate that a synthetically optimised BU peptide antagonist exerts selective efficacy against hypoxic tumour cells, outperforming conventional chemotherapy agents. These findings provide new mechanistic insights into SCLC and suggest translational potential to inform the development of future treatment strategies for this and other hypoxia-driven malignancies. Full article