Search Results (1,211)

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC), characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and immune imbalance demands novel ameliorative strategies beyond conventional approaches. Methods: In this study, the probiotic properties of Lactobacillus paracasei L21 (L. paracasei L21) and its ability to ameliorate colitis were evaluated using an in vitro lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal crypt epithelial cell (IEC-6) model and an in vivo dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mouse model. Results: In vitro, L. paracasei L21 decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8) while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels (p < 0.05) in LPS-induced IEC-6 cells, significantly enhancing the expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin, claudin-1), thereby restoring the intestinal barrier. In vivo, both viable L. paracasei L21 and its heat-inactivated postbiotic (H-L21) mitigated weight loss, colon shortening, and disease activity indices, concurrently reducing serum LPS and proinflammatory mediators. Interventions inhibited NF-κB signaling while activating HIF1α/AhR pathways, increasing IL-22 and mucin MUC2 to restore goblet cell populations. Gut microbiota analysis showed that both interventions increased the abundance of beneficial gut bacteria (Lactobacillus, Dubococcus, and Akkermansia) and improved faecal propanoic acid and butyric acid levels. H-L21 uniquely exerted an anti-inflammatory effect, marked by the regulation of Dubosiella, while L. paracasei L21 marked by the Akkermansia. Conclusions: These results highlight the potential of L. paracasei L21 as a candidate for the development of both probiotic and postbiotic formulations. It is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the management of UC and to drive the development of the next generation of UC therapies. Full article

The demand for anion exchange membranes (AEMs) is growing due to their applications in water electrolysis, CO₂ reduction conversion and fuel cells, as well as water treatment, driven by the increasing energy demand and the need for a sustainable future. However, current AEMs still face challenges, such as insufficient permeability and stability in strongly acidic or alkaline media, which limit their durability and the sustainability of membrane fabrication. In this study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) biopolymers are selected for membrane preparation. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and porous organic polymer (POP) nanoparticles are also introduced within the PVA-CS polymer blends to make mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) with increased OH⁻ transport sites. The membranes are characterized based on typical properties for AEM applications, such as thickness, water uptake, KOH uptake, Cl⁻ and OH⁻ permeability and ion exchange capacity (IEC). The OH⁻ transport of the PVA-CS blend is increased by at least 94.2% compared with commercial membranes. The incorporation of non-porous ZnO and porous POP nanoparticles into the polymer blend does not compromise the OH⁻ transport properties. On the contrary, ZnO nanoparticles enhance the membrane’s water retention capacity, provide basic surface sites that facilitate hydroxide ion conduction and reinforce the mechanical and thermal stability. In parallel, POPs introduce a highly porous architecture that increases the internal surface area and promotes the formation of continuous hydrated pathways, essential to efficient OH⁻ mobility. Furthermore, the presence of POPs also contributes to reinforcing the mechanical integrity of the membrane. Thus, PVA-CS bio-based membranes are a promising alternative to conventional ion exchange membranes for various applications. Full article

In an era of exponential data growth, ensuring high data quality has become essential for effective, evidence-based decision making. This study presents a structured and comparative review of the field by integrating data classifications, quality dimensions, assessment methodologies, and modern software tools. Unlike earlier reviews that focus narrowly on individual aspects, this work synthesizes foundational concepts with formal frameworks, including the Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) principles and the ISO/IEC 25000 series on software and data quality. It further examines well-established assessment models, such as Total Data Quality Management (TDQM), Data Warehouse Quality (DWQ), and High-Quality Data Management (HDQM), and critically evaluates commercial platforms in terms of functionality, AI integration, and adaptability. A key contribution lies in the development of conceptual mappings that link data quality dimensions with FAIR indicators and maturity levels, offering a practical reference model. The findings also identify gaps in current tools and approaches, particularly around cost-awareness, explainability, and process adaptability. By bridging theory and practice, the study contributes to the academic literature while offering actionable insights for building scalable, standards-aligned, and context-sensitive data quality management strategies. Full article

Short-circuit current is a key characteristic value for synchronous generator-based power systems. It is employed for different applications during the planning and operation phases. The proportion of converter-interfaced units is increasing in order to integrate more renewable energy sources into the system. These units have different fault current characteristics due to their physical properties and operation strategies. Consequently, the network’s short-circuit current profile is changing, both in terms of magnitude and injection time. Therefore, accurately estimating fault currents is crucial for reliable power system planning and operation. Traditionally, two calculation methods are employed: the equivalent voltage source (IEC 60909/VDE 0102) and the superimposition (complete) method. In this work, the assumptions, simplifications, and limitations from both types of methods are addressed. As a result, a new load-flow-based method is presented, improving the static modeling of generating units and the accuracy in the estimation of short-circuit currents. The method is tested for mixed generation types comprising of synchronous generators, and grid-following (current source) and grid-forming (voltage source before and current source after the current limit) converters. All methods are compared against detailed time-domain RMS simulations using a modified IEEE-39 bus system and a real network from ENTSO-E. It is shown that the proposed method provides the best accuracy in the calculation of initial short-circuit currents for converter-based power systems. Full article

With the emergence of Survey 4.0, the oil and gas (O & G) industry is now considering spatial digital twins during their field design to enhance visualization, efficiency, and safety. O & G companies have already initiated investments in the research and development of spatial digital twins to build digital mining models. Existing studies commonly adopt surveys and case studies as their evaluation approach to validate the feasibility of spatial digital twins and related technologies. However, this approach requires high costs and resources. To address this gap, this study explores the feasibility of the informed argument method within the design science framework. A land survey data model (LSDM)-based digital twin prototype for O & G field design, along with 3D spatial datasets located in Lot 2 on RP108045 at petroleum lease 229 under the Department of Resources, Queensland Government, Australia, was selected as a case for this study. The ISO/IEC 25010 model was adopted as a methodology for this study to evaluate the prototype and Digital Twin Victoria (DTV). It encompasses eight metrics, such as functional suitability, performance efficiency, compatibility, usability, security, reliability, maintainability, and portability. The results generated from this study indicate that the prototype encompasses a standard level of all parameters in the ISO/IEC 25010 model. The key significance of the study is its methodological contribution to evaluating the spatial digital twin models through cost-effective means, particularly under circumstances with strict regulatory requirements and low information accessibility. Full article

Since around the year 2000, following the introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) to the market, some people have expressed concerns about the level of magnetic flux density (MFD) inside vehicles. In 2013, we reported the results of MFD measurements for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs). However, those 2013 measurements were conducted using a chassis dynamometer, and no measurements were taken during actual driving. In recent years, with the rapid global spread of EVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the international standard IEC 62764-1:2022, which defines methods for measuring magnetic fields (MF) in vehicles, has been issued. In response, and for the first time, we conducted new MF measurements on current Japanese vehicle models in accordance with the international standard IEC 62764-1:2022, identifying the MFD levels and their sources at various positions within EVs, PHEVs, and ICEVs. The measured MFD values in all vehicle types were below the reference levels recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) for public exposure. Furthermore, we performed comparative measurements with the MF data obtained in 2013 and confirmed that the MF levels remained similar. These findings are expected to provide valuable insights for risk communication with the public regarding electromagnetic fields, particularly for those concerned about MF exposure inside electrified vehicles. Full article

The increased occurrence and severity of cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure have underscored the need to embrace systematic and prospective approaches to resilience. The current research takes as its hypothesis that the InfraGuard Cybersecurity Framework—a capability model that measures the maturity of cyber resilience through three functional pillars, Cyber as a Shield, Cyber as a Space, and Cyber as a Sword—is an implementable and understandable means to proceed with. The model treats the significant aspects of situational awareness, active defense, risk management, and recovery from incidents and is measured using globally standardized maturity models like ISO/IEC 15504, NIST CSF, and COBIT. The contributions include multidimensional measurements of resilience, a scored scale of capability (0–5), and domain-based classification enabling organizations to assess and enhance their cybersecurity situation in a formalized manner. The framework’s applicability is illustrated in three exploratory settings of power grids, healthcare systems, and airports, each constituting various levels of maturity in resilience. This study provides down-to-earth recommendations to policymakers through the translation of the attributes of resilience into concrete assessment indicators, promoting policymaking, investment planning, and global cyber defense collaboration. Full article

With the continuous development of high-speed electric multiple units (EMUs), vibration issues of vehicles have become increasingly prominent. During operation, the underfloor equipment installed on the carbody is subjected to random multi-point vibrations transmitted from the carbody, inducing significant fatigue damage. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of multi-channel vibration environment data for various underfloor equipment across different operating speeds obtained through on-site measurements. A spectral synthetic method grounded in statistical principles is then proposed to generate vibration environment spectra for diverse underfloor equipment. Finally, utilizing fatigue analysis in the frequency domain, the fatigue damage to underfloor equipment is assessed under different operational environments. The research results show that the vibration environment spectrum of the underfloor equipment in high-speed EMU trains differs significantly from the vibration spectrum specified in the IEC 61373 standard, especially at high frequencies. Despite this difference in spectral characteristics, the overall vibration energy values of the two spectra are comparable. Additionally, the vibration spectra of different underfloor equipment exhibit variations that can be attributed to their installation positions. As operational speed increases, the fatigue damage to the underfloor equipment exhibits exponential growth. However, the total accumulated fatigue damage remains relatively low, consistently staying below a value of 1. Full article

This study systematically investigated the physicochemical properties and proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) performance of perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes with different thicknesses, which were prepared based on the resins produced by Dongyue (China) in comparison with commercial Nafion membranes. It was found that the water uptake of Dongyue membranes is significantly higher than that of Nafion, showing a significant upward trend with the thickness increase. The ion exchange capacity (IEC) of these membranes is ca. 1 mmol·g⁻¹. Moreover, the tensile strength of the Dongyue membrane was positively correlated with the thickness and was significantly higher than that of recast Nafion. Under 80 °C, all Dongyue membranes with various thicknesses (15~45 μm) exhibited PEMFC single-cell performance superior to that of Nafion. The maximum power density is observed with a thickness of 25 μm, reaching 851.76 mW·cm⁻², which is higher than that of Nafion (635.99 mW·cm⁻²). However, the oxidative stability of the prepared Dongyue PFSA series membranes exhibits a slight deficit compared to commercial Nafion membranes. Subsequently, the modification and optimization of preparation processes can be employed to improve the mechanical and chemical stability of Dongyue PFSA membranes. Full article

Decision management is the systems engineering life cycle process for making program/system decisions. The purpose of the decision management process is: “…to provide a structured, analytical framework for objectively identifying, characterizing and evaluating a set of alternatives for a decision at any point in the life cycle and select the most beneficial course of action”. Systems engineers and systems analysts need to inform decisions in a digital engineering environment. This paper describes a Decision Analysis Data Model (DADM) developed in model-based systems engineering software to provide the process, methods, models, and data to support decision management. DADM can support digital engineering for waterfall, spiral, and agile development processes. This paper describes the decision management processes and provides the definition of the data elements. DADM is based on ISO/IEC/IEEE 15288, the INCOSE SE Handbook, the SE Body of Knowledge, the Data Management Body of Knowledge, systems engineering textbooks, and journal articles. The DADM was developed to establish a decision management process and data definitions that organizations and programs can tailor for their system life cycles and processes. The DADM can also be used to assess organizational processes and decision quality. Full article

In this study, the fatigue behavior in high-speed train bogie frames and mounted traction motors was investigated through dynamic stress measurements and vibration analysis. A spectrum synthesis method was developed to integrate multipoint random vibrations from the bogie frame into a unified excitation spectrum for motor fatigue assessment. The results demonstrate that fatigue damage in the bogie frame progresses linearly with increasing speed, with critical stress concentrations being identified at the motor base weld seams (41.4 MPa equivalent stress at 400 km/h). Traction motor vibration spectra were found to deviate substantially from IEC 61373 standards, leading to higher fatigue damage that follows an exponential growth pattern relative to speed increases. The proposed methodology provides direct experimental validation of component-specific fatigue mechanisms under operational loading conditions. Full article

This paper introduces arguments in favor of the intensive use of standards in both teaching the Machine Elements discipline and solving the first projects of mechanical design (gearboxes, jacks, pumps, tanks, etc.). The paper presents a SWOTT approach to the use of new in-force standards in teaching the design of machine elements. The use of information from standards in courses and design handbooks is regulated by various standardization associations at different levels internationally, such as the ISO (International Organization of Standardization), IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), and ITU (International Telecommunication), and regional associations such as the CEN (European Commission for Standardization), CENELEC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization) and ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute), and national associations (for instance, the ASRO—Association of Standardization of Romania). In general, the conditions for using partial information from standards vary, but the authors present common lines and recommendations for introducing information from standards in books and design handbooks for engineering students. The use of information from standards for terms, materials, calculation models, test methods etc. is beneficial for students. This will provide them a good professional education towards adapting to a specific job in the field of mechanical engineering, where conformity to norms and standards is required by the dynamics of production, product quality and, not least, the safety of machines and operators. Full article

The intentional yaw offset of wind turbines has shown potential to redirect wakes, enhancing overall plant power production, but it may increase fatigue loading on turbine components. This study analyzed fatigue loads on the NREL 5 MW reference wind turbine under varying yaw offsets using blade element momentum theory, dynamic blade element momentum, and the converging Lagrange filaments vortex method, all implemented in OpenFAST. Simulations employed yaw angles from −40° to 40°, with turbulent inflow generated by TurbSim, an OpenFAST tool for realistic wind conditions. Fatigue loads were calculated according to IEC 61400-1 design load case 1.2 standards, using thirty simulations per yaw angle across five wind speed bins. Damage equivalent load was evaluated via rainflow counting, Miner’s rule, and Goodman correction. Results showed that the free vortex method, by modeling unsteady aerodynamic forces, yielded distinct differences in damage equivalent load compared to the blade element method in yawed conditions. The free vortex method predicted lower damage equivalent load for the low-speed shaft bending moment at negative yaw offsets, attributed to its improved handling of unsteady effects that reduce load variations. Conversely, for yaw offsets above 20°, the free vortex method indicated higher damage equivalent for low-speed shaft torque, reflecting its accurate capture of dynamic inflow and unsteady loading. These findings highlight the critical role of unsteady aerodynamics in fatigue load predictions and demonstrate the free vortex method’s value within OpenFAST for realistic damage equivalent load estimates in yawed turbines. The results emphasize the need to incorporate unsteady aerodynamic models like the free vortex method to accurately assess yaw offset impacts on wind turbine component fatigue. Full article

Atherosclerosis (AS), a progressive inflammatory disease of coronary arteries, the aorta, and the internal carotid artery, is considered one of the main contributors to cardiovascular disorders. Blood flow is restricted by accumulating lipid-rich macrophages (foam cells), calcium, fibrin, and cellular debris into plaques on the intima of arterial walls. Butyrate maintains gut barrier integrity and modulates immune responses. Butyrate regulates G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling and activates nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), activator protein-1 (AP-1), and interferon regulatory factors (IFRs) involved in the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Depending on the inflammatory stimuli, butyrate may also inactivate NF-κB, resulting in the suppression of proinflammatory cytokines and the stimulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Butyrate modulates mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) to promote or suppress macrophage inflammation, muscle cell growth, apoptosis, and the uptake of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) in macrophages. Activation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) pathway plays a role in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and cell differentiation. Butyrate inhibits interferon γ (IFN-γ) signaling and suppresses NOD-, LRR-, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) involved in inflammation and scar tissue formation. The dual role of butyrate in AS is discussed by addressing the interactions between butyrate, intestinal epithelial cells (IECs), endothelial cells (ECs) of the main arteries, and immune cells. Signals generated from these interactions may be applied in the diagnosis and intervention of AS. Reporters to detect early AS is suggested. This narrative review covers the most recent findings published in PubMed and Crossref databases. Full article

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) offers transformative potential for supply chain management by enabling automation, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics. However, fragmented standardization, interoperability challenges, and cybersecurity risks hinder its sustainable adoption. This study aims to develop and validate an ISO-based framework to optimize IIoT networks for sustainable supply chain operations. A quantitative time-series research design was employed, analyzing 150 observations from 10–15 industrial firms over five years. Analytical methods included ARIMA, structural equation modeling (SEM), and XGBoost for predictive evaluation. The findings indicate a 6.2% increase in system uptime, a 4.7% reduction in operational costs, a 2.8% decrease in lead times, and a 55–60% decline in security incidents following ISO standard implementation. Interoperability improved by 40–50%, and integration cost savings ranged from 35–40%, contributing to a 25% boost in overall operational efficiency. These results underscore the critical role of ISO frameworks such as ISO/IEC 30141 and ISO 50001 in enhancing connectivity, energy efficiency, and network security across IIoT-enabled supply chains. While standardization significantly improves key performance indicators, the persistence of lead time variability suggests the need for additional optimization strategies. This study offers a structured and scalable methodology for ISO-based IIoT integration, delivering both theoretical advancement and practical relevance. By aligning with internationally recognized sustainability standards, it provides policymakers, practitioners, and industry leaders with an evidence-based framework to accelerate digital transformation, enhance operational efficiency, and support resilient, sustainable supply chain development in the context of Industry 4.0. Full article