Search Results (3,865)

This article demonstrates how the non-intrusive techniques PLIF (Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence) and PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry) are used to study fluid flow and mixing in a water model of a continuous casting tundish. These techniques validate CFD models by providing hydrodynamic data and by testing the models’ ability to predict mixing through simulated concentration field evolution under defined process conditions. Using PIV and PLIF yields more accurate information on turbulent mixing and impurity transport than traditional methods. Access to flow and concentration field evolution enables more precise mathematical model refinement and clarifies the impact of tundish design or operational changes on hydrodynamics and mixing. Relative errors in chemical evolution are approximately 20%, whereas velocity errors vary depending on the measurement plane, being lower for longitudinal planes and higher for transversal planes. This suggests that the turbulence model does not fully capture all low- and high-velocity zones. This approach supports reliable flow and mixing predictions in metallurgy and related fields. Full article

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition frequently treated with pharmacological interventions, most commonly stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, alongside non-stimulant options. This narrative review, based on 31 publications and five national drug utilization registers, summarizes global trends in ADHD medication use since 2000. Across most countries, prevalence of ADHD medication use increased steadily, with the sole exception of the Netherlands, where recent declines were observed. The highest prevalence of ADHD medication use was consistently found among older children and adolescents. While boys showed higher values of prevalence of ADHD medication use than girls in childhood, faster increases among females resulted in reversed gender ratios in several adult populations. Methylphenidate remained the most widely prescribed drug, although the use of lisdexamfetamine and guanfacine has expanded in recent years. Variations in national guidelines, diagnostic frameworks, healthcare access, and sociocultural acceptance of pharmacotherapy contributed to observed differences across regions. Increasing use of ADHD medications raises important questions about equitable access to treatment, potential overdiagnosis, and the risk of stimulant misuse. These findings highlight the need for continued monitoring of utilization patterns to ensure safe, rational, and equitable ADHD care worldwide. Full article

With access to new energy sources, the problem of reactive power optimization and dispatching has become increasingly important for research. However, the reactive power optimization problem is a mixed integer nonlinear optimization problem. In order to solve the integer variables and nonlinear conditions existing therein, a method for coordinated reactive power optimization and dispatching based on semidefinite programming is proposed. Firstly, a reactive power optimization model considering discrete variables and continuous variables is established with the minimization of total operating cost as the objective function; secondly, the discrete variables are transformed into equality constraints by quadratic equations, and then a solvable semi-definite programming problem is obtained; thirdly, the rank-one constraint is restored by the Iterative Optimization based Gaussian Randomization Method (IOGRM), and the optimal solution equivalent to the original problem is obtained. Finally, the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed model and solution method are verified by analyzing and comparing with the second-order cone programming (SOCP) through the modified IEEE standard example. Full article

Rockburst disasters in deep underground engineering present significant safety hazards due to complex geological conditions and high in situ stresses. To address the limitations of traditional microseismic (MS) monitoring methods—namely, vulnerability to noise interference, low recognition accuracy, and limited computational efficiency—this study proposes an intelligent real-time monitoring and early warning framework that integrates deep learning, MS monitoring, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The methodology includes db4 wavelet-based signal denoising for preprocessing, an improved Gaussian Mixture Model for automated waveform recognition, a U-Net-based neural network for P-wave arrival picking, and a particle swarm optimization algorithm with Lagrange multipliers for event localization. Furthermore, a cloud-based platform is developed to support automated data processing, three-dimensional visualization, real-time warning dissemination, and multi-user access. Field application in a deep-buried railway tunnel in Southwest China demonstrates the system’s effectiveness, achieving an early warning accuracy of 87.56% during 767 days of continuous monitoring. Comparative verification further indicates that the fine-tuned neural network outperforms manual approaches in waveform picking and event identification. Overall, the proposed system provides a robust, scalable, and intelligent solution for rockburst hazard mitigation in deep underground construction. Full article

This paper establishes the Brain Booster Buildings framework, the first model to demonstrate how daily stair use can elevate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a vital molecule for lifelong neurogenesis and brain health in humans. Through a novel framework of the associations between metabolic equivalents (METs) data and BDNF response studies, we establish that stairs are generally higher in METs than any indoor activity. We further explain how architectural parameters (riser height, floor number, pace) predictably modulate exercise intensity during stair use. We identify two implementable patterns: moderate-intensity continuous use (≥20 min, 1–3 floors) and high-intensity interval training (6 min, carrying loads while using stairs in a building with three floors or less, or using stairs in a building with ≥3 floors, load-free). Based on BDNF responses to comparable exercise intensities, 6 min of high-intensity stair climbing is predicted to increase serum BDNF by up to 40%. Since people spend ~90% of their time indoors while neurogenesis declines fourfold throughout the adult lifespan, affecting mood, stress resilience, and memory, vertical architecture emerges as a vital, accessible, and cost-effective infrastructure that boosts BDNF for neurogenesis, plasticity, and brain health. We conducted scenario-based modelling using the Brain Booster Buildings framework to estimate how the use of stairs in residential, office, educational, hospital, and commercial buildings may boost BDNF levels based on established intensity–BDNF relationships. The framework provides architects, policymakers, and clinicians with evidence-based estimated specifications to use buildings as daily brain boosters. Full article

Real-time operating systems (RTOSs) are widely used in embedded systems to ensure deterministic task execution, predictable responses, and concurrent operations, which are crucial for time-sensitive applications. However, the growing complexity of embedded systems, increased network connectivity, and dynamic software updates significantly expand the attack surface, exposing RTOSs to a variety of security threats, including memory corruption, privilege escalation, and side-channel attacks. Traditional security mechanisms often impose additional overhead that can compromise real-time guarantees. In this work, we present a Risk-aware Permission Adjustment (RPA) framework, implemented on CHERIoT RTOS, which is a CHERI-based operating system. RPA aims to detect anomalous behavior in real time, quantify security risks, and dynamically adjust permissions to mitigate potential threats. RPA maintains system continuity, enforces fine-grained access control, and progressively contains the impact of violations without interrupting critical operations. The framework was evaluated through targeted fault injection experiments, including 20 real-world CVEs and 15 abstract vulnerability classes, demonstrating its ability to mitigate both known and generalized attacks. Performance measurements indicate minimal runtime overhead while significantly reducing system downtime compared to conventional CHERIoT and FreeRTOS implementations. Full article

Background/objectives: Despite global efforts to improve childhood immunization rates, gender-related barriers continue to hinder equitable access to vaccines worldwide. This study synthesizes gender barrier analyses conducted in various countries to better understand these challenges. This evidence synthesis aims to (1) identify the main gender-related barriers affecting immunization focusing on zero-dose targets, HPV, and COVID-19 vaccination campaigns; and (2) summarize key recommendations and lessons that have emerged from countries to overcome those gender barriers. Methods: A documentary analysis was used by reviewing data from gender barrier analyses that were conducted by multiple governments with UNICEF support. The study classified barriers using the socio-ecological model (SEM), encompassing systemic, health service, community, household, and individual-level gender barriers. Descriptive statistics and inductive thematic coding were used to analyze data. Results: This synthesis includes 24 documents representing gender barrier analyses across 29 countries. Findings highlight multiple barriers, including systemic discrimination against women in public and healthcare spaces, limited political will to address gender disparities, and limited (sex)-disaggregated and gender data. At the community and household levels, social norms restrict women’s autonomy in seeking immunization services, while household duties (culturally assigned to women) also restrict their access to immunization services. Adolescents face additional challenges, particularly regarding HPV vaccination, due to misconceptions and stigma from families and peers. Conclusions: Addressing gender-related barriers requires a multi-level approach, integrating gender-responsive policies, and comprehensively addressing gender barriers that are hindering the progress of vaccination efforts. UNICEF’s commitment to gender-responsive immunization strategies is critical for achieving the Immunization Agenda 2030 and ensuring equitable vaccine access for all. Full article

Ship berthing operations are inherently challenging for maritime vessels, particularly within restricted port areas and under unfavorable weather conditions. Contrary to autonomous open-sea navigation, autonomous ship berthing remains a significant technological challenge for the maritime industry. Lidar and optical camera systems have been deployed as auxiliary tools to support informed berthing decisions; however, these sensing modalities are severely affected by weather and light conditions, respectively, while cameras in particular are inherently incapable of providing direct range measurements. In this paper, we introduce a comprehensive, Radar-Based Berthing-Aid Dataset (R-BAD), aimed to cultivate the development of safe berthing systems onboard ships. The proposed R-BAD dataset includes a large collection of Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar data in point cloud format alongside timestamped and synced video footage. There are more than 69 h of recorded ship operations, and the dataset is freely accessible to the interested reader(s). We also propose an onboard support system for radar-aided vessel docking, which enables obstacle detection, clustering, tracking and classification during ferry berthing maneuvers. The proposed dataset covers all docking/undocking scenarios (arrivals, departures, port idle, and cruising operations) and was used to train various machine/deep learning models of substantial performance, showcasing its validity for further autonomous navigation systems development. The berthing-aid system is tested in real-world conditions onboard an operational Ro-Ro/Passenger Ship and demonstrated superior, weather-resilient, repeatable and robust performance in detection, tracking and classification tasks, demonstrating its technology readiness for integration into future autonomous berthing-aid systems. Full article

Background and Aim: Opioid use disorder (OUD) during pregnancy has become a major public health issue, with its prevalence rising significantly in recent years. The incidence of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) has also surged, from 1.5 cases per 1000 hospital births in 1999 to 6.0 cases per 1000 in 2013. This study aims to identify and analyze the concerns faced by pregnant people in accessing OUD treatment on time, specifically focusing on New York. Methods: The pooled sample of 225,275 individuals represents pregnant patients with OUD who received treatment at substance use disorder (SUD) facilities across New York State between 2016 and 2020, using data from the TEDS-D database. This dataset includes all pregnant individuals diagnosed with OUD, with consistent criteria for treatment eligibility applied. Results: The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for OUD was 1.41 (95% CI 1.15, 1.72; p = 0.0008) for full-time employees and 1.11 (95% CI 0.91, 1.34; p = 0.32) for part-time employees, compared to unemployed individuals. Regarding marital status, the AOR for treatment access was 1.51 (95% CI 1.34, 1.70; p < 0.0001) for currently married individuals and 1.85 (95% CI 1.67, 2.06; p < 0.0001) for those who are divorced or widowed, compared to individuals who have never married. Discussion: Our study highlights key sociodemographic barriers that affect early access to care for pregnant individuals in New York. OUD continues to be a critical public health issue, particularly among pregnant people, who are exposed to heightened health risks for both themselves and their babies, due to societal perceived stigma related to use during pregnancy. Full article

Globally, women continue to die from pregnancy-related conditions that could be prevented through ensuring timely access to emergency obstetric care and facility-based deliveries supervised by skilled birth attendants. However, many women are reluctant to deliver in maternity healthcare facilities due to the widespread disrespect and abuse that patients have reportedly received. Respectful maternity care has been identified amongst the possible solutions. This study explored perceptions of respectful maternity care and the enabling conditions of a multidisciplinary group of maternity healthcare providers working at a busy, specialised public mother and child regional hospital in Gauteng, South Africa. An explorative, descriptive, and contextual study design with a phenomenological perspective was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each of the 30 purposefully selected study participants. The interviews were digitally recorded, professionally transcribed, and analysed using Tesch’s Constant Comparison method. Two main categories, namely (1) healthcare providers’ perceptions of respectful maternity care and (2) enabling conditions for its practice emerged, encompassing seven themes: women-centred care, provision of high-quality care, preservation and promotion of women’s rights, creating an enabling environment for the practice of RMC, in-service training, accountability of healthcare providers for their actions, and community involvement. The perceptions of the study participants regarding respectful maternity care align with global standards; however, successful implementation requires the establishment of enabling conditions. Full article

Despite notable progress in HIV prevention and treatment, men who have sex with men (MSM) continue to bear a disproportionate burden of HIV, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where systemic barriers restrict access to HIV testing. This study draws on data from the 2017 Ghana Men’s Study II (GMS II), to examine the socio-demographic, behavioural, and structural factors influencing HIV testing among MSM. The Ghana Men’s Study II dataset, involving 4095 MSM, was de-identified and analysed using STATA (software version 17). Before the analysis, missing information for categorical variables were treated using the mode imputation technique. Chi-square test was done to describe relevant characteristics of the study population, such as socio-demographic/socio-economic variables and behavioural practices. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed for variables with p < 0.05 to determine significant predictors of HIV testing among MSM. All the statistical analyses were performed at a 95% confidence interval, with significant differences at p < 0.05. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, age 25–34 (AOR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.18–1.74, p < 0.001), having a senior high school education (AOR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.02–2.80, p = 0.040), tertiary education (AOR: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.17–3.55, p = 0.012), being a light drinker of alcohol (AOR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.04–1.58, p = 0.020), and having a comprehensive knowledge of HIV (AOR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.26–1.78, p < 0.001) had higher odds for HIV testing. Other factors such as being a Muslim (AOR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.54–0.90, p = 0.005) and sold sex to other males (AOR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.50–0.90, p = 0.007) were also positively associated with HIV testing among Ghanaian MSM. The findings revealed a number of socio-demographic and behavioural factors associated with HIV testing among the MSM population in Ghana. Full article

Homelessness remains a neglected and under-prioritized area of policy intervention in South Africa. Without a national policy framework, homelessness is generally overlooked, resulting in intermittent, fragmented and ineffective responses. The lack of attention has contributed to a concerning rise in both at-risk and street-based homeless populations, who continue to face challenges in accessing effective support. Using document analysis, the paper maps the content of six local homelessness policies. The findings reveal that the documents adhere to a rigid and static framework, thereby failing to capture the complex contextual and conceptual factors associated with homelessness. A notable shortcoming is the limited focus on and response to experiences of victimization. Using the Health Policy Triangle (HPT), the paper aligns the key findings with the four dimensions of the framework to advocate for inclusive, protective and victim-sensitive policy recommendations to aid in the development of holistic and humane responses to homelessness in South Africa. Full article

Advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapies have improved survival for individuals with metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (mNSCLC), creating a growing population of Canadians living long-term with the disease. These individuals face ongoing physical, emotional, and practical challenges, yet existing supportive care services are often designed for patients receiving curative intent treatment and may not adequately address the challenges of those undergoing continuous treatment. To explore these experiences and inform the development of supports tailored to their needs, eight participants with mNSCLC completed one-on-one virtual interviews. They described limited support for managing side effects and psychosocial concerns despite general satisfaction with oncology care. Fatigue and cognitive challenges impacted daily functioning, and emotional challenges (e.g., fear of progression, stigma, and difficulty finding meaning) impacted quality of life. Financial burden, including unexpected costs and loss of income, further affected their well-being. Existing supports, such as exercise programs, were viewed positively but were often difficult to access, were offered only short-term, and required patients to find them independently. Recommendations included improved coordination and communication across the healthcare system, alongside tailored interventions such as navigation services, resource directories, health promotion supports, and expanded peer support. Overall, people living long term with mNSCLC face distinct challenges and unmet supportive care needs, highlighting the importance of integrating supportive services into routine oncology care. Full article

Urban–rural mountainous regions face persistent challenges in reconciling ecological conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and recreational demands, all of which are vital to advancing social sustainability. This study develops an integrated corridor framework for the Qinling–Daba region that couples ecological, heritage, and recreational networks within a socially sustainable planning perspective. Ecological sources were identified using Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA) combined with connectivity indices (IIC, PC, dPC). Heritage and recreation resources were inventoried through field surveys and prioritized using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Function-specific corridors were modelled with a Minimum Cumulative Resistance (MCR) approach, and the three networks were synthesized through GIS overlay and hotspot analysis. The results indicate that there are 19 ecological sources and 28 corridors, 34 heritage nodes and 41 corridors, and 29 recreation nodes and 50 corridors. The composite network comprises 69 key nodes and 141 segments, classified into four node categories and three corridor types. Derived planning directives include graded buffer zones, continuity of riparian and forest belts, remediation of breakpoints with wildlife-friendly crossings, and universal accessibility standards for high-demand sites. By aligning ecological integrity, cultural values, and equitable access, the proposed framework offers a reproducible pathway to integrate people and places through multifunctional corridors. Beyond regional application, this research provides transferable insights for socially sustainable governance of urban–rural built environments in mountainous territories, supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 11. Full article

Background: High-dose cisplatin (≥200 mg/m² cumulative) remains the standard of care in concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC). However, its use is frequently limited by nephrotoxicity, including acute kidney disease (AKD). This recently described clinical renal syndrome encompasses functional alterations of the kidney lasting fewer than 3 months post-exposure. Although hydration protocols and antiemetic strategies are routinely applied to avoid reduction in oral liquid intake and to prevent dehydration that could worsen renal function, AKD continues to pose a threat to reach the therapeutic dose, to treatment completion, and long-term outcomes. Recent evidence supports the nephroprotective role of intravenous (IV) magnesium in mitigating cisplatin-induced tubular injury, yet prospective data on its impact in real-world LA-HNSCC settings remain limited. We aimed to prospectively investigate the incidence and characteristics of renal impairment, particularly AKD, in a real-world cohort of LA-HNSCC patients treated with high-dose cisplatin and standardized supportive therapy, including intravenous magnesium. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study including 207 patients with LA- HNSCC undergoing high-dose cisplatin-based CRT (≥200 mg/m² cumulative dose), within a standardized supportive care protocol incorporating IV magnesium. Renal function was assessed over three cycles via serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). AKD was defined and staged according to KDIGO criteria. Clinical and biochemical predictors of AKD were explored. Results: AKD occurred in 5.3% of patients (11/207; 95% CI 2.7–9.3), with eight events between C1→C2, 3 between C2→C3, and 0 thereafter; recovery at the next cycle was 9.1% (1/11). Among them, 57.1% were classified as stage 1. A baseline eGFR < 90 mL/min/1.73 m² was associated with a higher AKD incidence (13.3% vs. 5.4%). Body mass index (BMI) was significantly associated with AKD in univariate analysis (p = 0.02), whereas no independent predictor emerged in multivariate analysis. Use of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors was more frequent among patients who developed AKD (p = 0.04). Renal function declined more steeply in AKD patients, with a median eGFR slope of −0.3917 mL/min/1.73 m²/day vs. −0.0483 mL/min/1.73 m²/day in those without AKD (p = 0.0005), irrespective of CKD stage. Conclusions: In a real-world cohort receiving high-dose cisplatin with structured nephroprotection including IV magnesium, AKD developed in approximately 10% of patients. Lower baseline eGFR, elevated BMI, and RAAS inhibitor use emerged as potential risk factors. These findings reinforce the importance of proactive renal monitoring and suggest a role for magnesium supplementation as an accessible strategy to enhance renal safety in curative-intent CRT. Full article