Search Results (23,546)

Oral health represents a complex interplay between local microbial ecology, host immune responses, and systemic physiology. Far from being an isolated entity, the oral cavity is the entry point of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts and harbors up to one trillion microorganisms. While commensal species maintain ecological balance, pathogenic bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis drive inflammatory conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis. Studies suggest that as chronic inflammation persists and is manifested through sustained breakdown of periodontal tissues, systemic dissemination of oral pathogens contributes to bacteremia, endothelial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. As a result, increasing evidence has been found linking these oral pathogens and inflammatory mediators to systemic conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence linking oral health to systemic disease while addressing practical strategies to strengthen preventive care. Evidence-based interventions are presented as accessible tools for reducing both oral and systemic inflammatory burden. Importantly, this article emphasizes the public health imperative of bridging mechanistic insights with actionable oral hygiene practices. By promoting evidence-based strategies such as scaling and root planing, dietary sugar reduction, and judicious use of antimicrobial agents, individuals may reduce their risk of chronic inflammatory and degenerative diseases. Future interdisciplinary research is needed to clarify causal mechanisms and optimize preventive frameworks integrating oral-systemic health. Full article

This study investigates the practical value of angular-velocity measurements in the dynamic identification of pedestrian footbridges, addressing the need for reliable yet cost-effective diagnostics for slender civil structures. A comprehensive experimental campaign on a steel footbridge in Gdynia combined ambient vibration tests, forced excitation (light and heavy shakers), and controlled pedestrian loading. Synchronous translational accelerations and rotational velocities from MEMS sensors enabled evaluation of both bending and torsional responses. Three identification techniques—Peak Picking (PP), Frequency Domain Decomposition (FDD), and Stochastic Subspace Identification (SSI)—were applied and compared with a validated beam–shell FEM developed in SOFiSTiK. The results show that rotational data improve mode-shape interpretation and classification, notably resolving a coupled torsional–vertical mode (VT₂) that was ambiguous in acceleration-only analyses. The fundamental frequency of 3.1 Hz places the bridge in a resonance-prone range; field tests confirmed predominantly vertical response, with horizontal accelerations < 0.05 m/s² and peak vertical accelerations exceeding comfort class CL3 during synchronised walking of six pedestrians (≈2.55 m/s²) and jumping (up to 3.61 m/s²). Overall, the outcomes highlight that low-cost gyroscopic sensing offers substantial benefits for structural system identification and mode-shape characterization, enriching acceleration-based diagnostics and strengthening the basis for subsequent analyses. By reducing the financial and material demands of vibration testing, the proposed approach contributes to more sustainable assessment and maintenance of pedestrian bridges, aligning with resource-efficient monitoring strategies in civil infrastructure. Full article

Climate change arguably constitutes the most significant environmental challenge of our time, making the enhancement of urban resilience a global priority. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) have emerged as effective instruments to mitigate some of its impacts, particularly by reducing flood risk and moderating urban temperatures. However, their implementation is often reactive, focusing on existing problems rather than anticipating future ones. This underscores the need for robust methodological frameworks that enable the proactive integration of NbS within urban planning processes. This study proposes a spatial planning methodology supported by Geographic Information Systems (GIS), which, through the application of opportunity, priority, and feasibility criteria, identifies optimal areas for NbS integration, determines appropriate typologies, and establishes levels of intervention urgency. Although the methodology has been developed for the city of Granada, its structure allows for replication in other urban contexts. The findings reveal that one-third of Granada’s urban area is suitable for NbS implementation, with approximately 7% exhibiting a high or very high risk of surface runoff accumulation. The proposed tool has the potential to strengthen urban resilience and enhance citizens’ quality of life. Full article

Against the intensifying global climate change, rural tourism destinations in plateau areas are confronted with the dilemma of balancing economic development with ecological conservation. Pro-environmental behavior (PEB)has become pivotal to achieving regional environmental and tourism sustainability. This study proposes a conceptual model using a sample of 230 rural residents grounded in the Stimulus–Organism–Response (S-O-R) theory. A mediation model incorporating place attachment (PA) is constructed to examine the effects of climate change perception (CCP) and perceived value of tourism (PV) on pro-environmental behavior. Results from structural equation modeling (SEM) reveal the following: (1) Climate change perception directly and positively influences pro-environmental behavior. (2) Place attachment not only directly promotes pro-environmental behavior but also mediates the relationship between perceived value of tourism and pro-environmental behavior. (3) Perceived value of tourism exerts a direct positive effect on pro-environmental behavior in life, whereas its influence on pro-environmental behavior in agricultural production is indirect, mediated through place attachment. These findings suggest that strengthening residents’ emotional and functional connections to the local environment can effectively encourage pro-environmental actions in tourism areas, providing a theoretical basis for formulating environmental policies in high-altitude tourism destinations. Full article

Accurate estimation of forest stand carbon storage is critical for assessing ecosystem functions and informing sustainable forest management. Most existing models depend heavily on stand age, a strategy that is often unreliable in natural forests, and they typically ignore species interactions, limiting their applicability across forest types. To overcome these issues, we developed a dynamic carbon storage model based on the Richards equation that replaces stand age with a growth interval period (defined as the time difference between two successive growth stages, T_n = T₂ − T₁) and explicitly incorporates site quality and species composition. This approach enables consistent estimation for both natural and plantation forests. Using field data from six dominant tree species in Wuyishan City, Fujian Province, we calibrated and validated the model through five-fold cross-validation. It achieved high accuracy, with an efficiency coefficient (EA) above 99% and a relative mean absolute error (RMA) under 7%, effectively reflecting how site conditions and mixed-species structures influence carbon dynamics. Total forest carbon storage in the study area was estimated at 7.32 million tons. Simulations show a gradual decline in carbon accumulation over time, consistent with natural growth saturation in aging stands. Scenario analyses further identified practical zones for sustainable harvesting in major plantation types, underscoring the model’s management relevance. The model does not yet include climate variability, disturbances, or below-ground carbon pools. Adding these components in future work would strengthen its utility for regional carbon assessment and support more robust carbon-neutral forestry planning. Full article

Vulvodynia is a chronic vulvar pain condition that can interfere with women’s developmental processes and overall well-being. Adopting a broader perspective of women’s health informed by lifespan developmental and biopsychosocial frameworks, this study examined psychosocial factors related to the psychological well-being of Italian women with vulvodynia. Between December 2023 and December 2024, a total of 533 women diagnosed with vulvodynia completed an online survey. The survey included questions about sociodemographics and the illness, as well as validated measures of dyadic adjustment, social support, self-efficacy, perceived stress, and psychological well-being. Descriptive statistics, group comparisons, Pearson correlations, and hierarchical multiple regressions were performed. Nearly two-thirds of the women reported symptoms lasting over five years, and 44% experienced severe pain. Those with more intense pain, longer symptom duration, or delayed diagnosis reported lower well-being and higher stress. Satisfaction with treatment was linked to greater well-being. Psychological well-being was strongly correlated with social support, dyadic adjustment, and psychological resources. Regression analyses identified younger age, higher pain intensity, lower treatment satisfaction, reduced social support, lower self-efficacy, and greater stress as predictors of poorer psychological well-being. Vulvodynia should be considered a psychosocial and developmental challenge as well as a medical condition. These findings underscore the importance of viewing vulvodynia as not only a medical condition, but also a psychosocial and developmental challenge within women’s broader health trajectories, highlighting the need for interventions that address pain and provide structured emotional support to strengthen psychological and relational resources. Full article

Background/Objectives: In the absence of specific antiviral therapy for dengue viral infection, vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure. Two dengue vaccines have been licensed in Indonesia; however, concerns regarding vaccine hesitancy persist. This study aimed to assess dengue vaccine hesitancy among Indonesian office workers, comprising healthcare and non-healthcare workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study with an online survey was conducted between February 1 and April 30, 2025. Eligible participants were adults (≥18 years) employed in office-based settings, including healthcare facilities. Questionnaires were disseminated through company management teams and included 37 items on demographic characteristics, vaccination intentions, and underlying motivations. Data were analyzed to identify determinants of vaccine hesitancy. Results: A total of 377 respondents participated, the majority of whom were from West Java (335; 88.9%). One-third of respondents reported uncertainty regarding dengue vaccination (33.4% “not sure”), which was paralleled by hesitancy to pay for vaccination (43.2% “not sure”). Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified five significant determinants of vaccine hesitancy, with willingness-to-pay emerging as the strongest factor (β coefficient = 2.024; OR = 7.57; 95% CI = 4.06–14.10; p-value < 0.01). Conclusions: Approximately one-third of the surveyed Indonesian office workers exhibited hesitancy toward dengue vaccination. Willingness-to-pay was the most influential determinant of vaccine acceptance. Targeted strategies to address financial concerns and improve confidence in dengue vaccination are essential for strengthening workforce protection and national preparedness against dengue outbreaks. Full article

Addressing the significant pressure for carbon emission reduction in the cement industry, the development of novel cement materials capable of achieving “in situ carbon sequestration” has become an important research focus. This study introduces nesquehonite (MgCO₃·3H₂O, NQ) as a functional admixture into the Portland cement system, systematically investigating its effects on the cement hydration process, the evolution of hydration products, and its carbon sequestration efficiency. Through designed penetration resistance tests and hydration tests with a high water-to-solid ratio, this research utilized X-ray diffraction analysis to determine the phase composition and content of hydration products at different ages. This was combined with scanning electron microscopy to observe microstructural evolution and Nano Measure software 1.2.5 for ettringite crystal size measurement, analyzing the impact of NQ on the early hydration process of P.I cement. The results indicate that the incorporation of NQ significantly alters the early hydration of P.I cement. The Mg²⁺ and CO₃²⁻ ions released upon its dissolution interact with Ca²⁺ and OH⁻ in the pore solution, effectively promoting the early precipitation of carbon sequestration products such as calcium carbonate and minor magnesium-containing carbonates. The addition of 10% NQ hindered the crystallization of Ca(OH)₂ before 6 h but promoted its formation after 24 h. Mechanical property tests revealed that a sample with an optimal 3% NQ dosage not only increased the paste’s penetration resistance but also enhanced the compressive strength of the 1-day hardened sample by 8.37% compared to the plain sample, without a decrease and even a slight increase at 28 days. This enhancement is closely related to the microstructural strengthening effect induced by the carbonation products. This study confirms the feasibility of using NQ to steer the cement hydration pathway towards a low-carbon direction, revealing its dual functionality in regulating hydration and sequestering carbon within cement-based materials. The findings provide a new theoretical basis and technical pathway for developing high-performance, low-carbon cement. Full article

Tungsten is a prime candidate material for the plasma-facing components of fusion reactors, thanks to its high melting point, high temperature strength, good thermal conductivity, high erosion resistance, etc. Yet, it has some limitations, mainly its brittle nature, difficulty of machining, and propensity to recrystallize at elevated temperatures. Among the approaches to the improvement of particular properties are alloying, dispersion strengthening, thermomechanical processing, and modifications to the sintering process. This study explores the possibility of combining fine powder size with ultra-high pressure to achieve significant densification at moderate temperatures during hot pressing. Two powder sizes and a range of temperatures from 1000 to 2000 °C were used, and their effects were observed. The resulting tungsten compacts were characterized for their microstructure, density, and mechanical and thermal properties. The high pressure enabled substantial densification already at relatively low temperatures, thanks to the plastic deformation of the powder particles. A significant degree of sintering, as manifested by the microstructural and property evolution, occurred however only at higher temperatures. The compacts exhibited brittleness, calling for further optimization of the method. Full article

Automated defect detection from UAV imagery of transmission lines is a challenging task due to the small size, ambiguity, and complex backgrounds of defects. This paper proposes TinyDef-DETR, a DETR-based framework designed to achieve accurate and efficient detection of transmission line defects from UAV-acquired images. The model integrates four major components: an edge-enhanced ResNet backbone to strengthen boundary-sensitive representations, a stride-free space-to-depth module to enable detail-preserving downsampling, a cross-stage dual-domain multi-scale attention mechanism to jointly model global context and local cues, and a Focaler-Wise-SIoU regression loss to improve the localization of small and difficult objects. Together, these designs effectively mitigate the limitations of conventional detectors. Extensive experiments on both public and real-world datasets demonstrate that TinyDef-DETR achieves superior detection performance and strong generalization capability, while maintaining modest computational overhead. The accuracy and efficiency of TinyDef-DETR make it a suitable method for UAV-based transmission line defect detection, particularly in scenarios involving small and ambiguous objects. Full article

Human trampling in urban forest parks has received increasing attention, yet its effects on microbial community assembly remain elusive. This study investigated how trampling influences soil physicochemical properties and microbial communities in Zhuyuwan Scenic Area. Neutral and null community models were used to analyze the effects of trampling on microbial assembly processes. Trampling altered both soil physicochemical properties and microbial diversity. Fungal richness differed significantly between control and light-trampling plots. Soil bulk density (SD) was strongly negatively correlated with other soil physical properties, which were positively intercorrelated. Model analyses showed that light trampling strengthened stochastic processes in bacterial community assembly, whereas heavy trampling reduced this effect. Increasing trampling intensity intensified the influence of stochastic processes on fungal community assembly. Bacterial communities were mainly shaped by heterogeneous selection, while fungal communities were primarily governed by dispersal limitation. These results enhance understanding of how trampling disturbance influences microbial community assembly and provide a theoretical basis for the ecological management and restoration of urban forest parks. Full article

Accurate vehicle damage detection is essential in intelligent transportation systems, insurance claim assessment, and automotive maintenance. Although conventional detection models demonstrate strong performance, they still struggle to capture fine-grained details and long-range dependencies, which can constrain their effectiveness in real-world applications. To address these limitations, we propose HL-YOLO, an enhanced YOLO11-based architecture that integrates Heterogeneous Convolutions (HetConv) to improve feature extraction diversity and Large-Kernel Attention (LSKA) to strengthen contextual representation. Model evaluation results on a vehicle damage dataset demonstrate that HL-YOLO consistently outperforms the YOLO11 baseline, achieving relative improvements of 2.5% in precision, 5.8% in recall, 3.9% in mAP50, and 3.1% in mAP50–95. These results underscore the model’s robustness in identifying complex damage types, ranging from scratches and dents to accident-induced damage. Although inference latency increased moderately due to the added architectural complexity, the overall accuracy gains confirm the effectiveness of HL-YOLO in scenarios where detection reliability is prioritized over real-time speed. The proposed model shows strong potential for deployment in insurance automation, intelligent traffic monitoring, and vehicle after-service systems, providing a reliable framework for accurate vehicle damage assessment. Full article

To further investigate the influence of the law of leakage on rotary engines, this study took a single-cylinder gasoline rotary engine as the research object and analyzed the effects of radial leakage, using the experimentally validated 3D combustion simulation model as the basis, and equivalent leakage area on in-cylinder flow, combustion process, and engine performance. The study shows the following: on the one hand, leakage disperses the force exerted by the rotor on the in-cylinder fluid and flame, thereby changing the fluid direction; on the other hand, it increases the distribution area of high-speed fluid in the middle and rear parts of the combustion chamber and reduces the overall flow velocity in the front part. Radial leakage has the characteristics of both a slight positive promotion and a negative interference on combustion, and the increase in equivalent leakage area will strengthen the negative effect. Meanwhile, it reduces the combustion efficiency, causes a significant decrease in cylinder pressure and maximum cylinder temperature, and exerts an adverse impact on the overall performance of the engine. Full article

This study examined whether layering spatial partitions and symbolic identity cues can transform underdefined university lounges into supportive social environments. In a within-subjects experiment, 60 architecture students experienced three lounge configurations in random order: (A) baseline, (B) partitions presented via mixed reality (MR), and (C) partitions plus identity cues via MR. After each condition, participants rated perceived territorial characteristics (PTC; spatial comfort, openness, territorial control, and symbolic identity) and sense of community (SOC; need fulfillment, membership, influence, and emotional connection). Repeated-measures ANOVAs with sphericity corrections showed stepwise increases (A < B < C) for territorial outcomes—overall PTC, spatial comfort, territorial control, and symbolic identity (ηp² ≈ 0.61–0.70, all p < 0.001). Openness remained high but was unchanged across conditions and unrelated to SOC (all p > 0.05). For community outcomes, improvements emerged only in Design C across the total score and all subdimensions (A = B < C; ηp² ≈ 0.17–0.28; all p ≤ 0.01). MR presence did not differ between B and C (all p > 0.05), indicating that gains in C are attributable to territorial/identity cues rather than immersion. Design-wise correlation analyses revealed positive links between territorial control/symbolic identity and SOC indices (r ≈ 0.45–0.78). The findings support a complementary design framework: permeable partitions make boundaries salient, and symbolic identity cues add shared meaning, modestly strengthening community connection. MR serves as a context-embedded preoccupancy evaluation platform for capturing psychosocial responses to spatial design. Full article

The high-Mg-content Al-Mg-Zn-Si alloy, as a novel aluminum alloy, exhibits excellent strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance, demonstrating significant application potential in lightweight structural components for aerospace, weapon systems, rail transportation, and other fields. In this study, friction stir welding was employed to weld the high-Mg-content Al-Mg-Zn-Si alloy. Subsequent aging treatment was applied to establish the relationship between the mechanical properties and microstructural characteristics of the welded joint, aiming to elucidate the strengthening mechanisms of the new alloy and provide insights for achieving high-quality welds. The results indicate that the microhardness profile of the as-welded joint exhibited a “W” shape, with overall low hardness values and minor differences between zones. After the aging treatment, the microhardness increased significantly in the base material (BM), the thermo-mechanically affected zone (TMAZ), and the stir zone (SZ), whereas the heat-affected zone (HAZ) adjacent to the SZ exhibited only a marginal increase, making it the softest region in the aged joint. The yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the aged joint increased to 327 MPa and 471 MPa, respectively. The enhancement in microhardness and strength after aging treatment was attributed to the precipitation of numerous nano-sized T-phase particles within grains. Interestingly, the tensile samples of the aged joint fractured in the high-hardness SZ instead of the low-hardness HAZ. This fracture behavior was primarily attributed to continuous grain boundary precipitates, which reduced intergranular cohesion. In contrast, the elongated grain structure in the HAZ more effectively resisted intergranular crack propagation compared to the equiaxed grains in the SZ. Full article