Search Results (23,329)

Francis turbines operating in sediment-laden flows experience efficiency loss and reduced service life due to abrasive wear. To enhance wear resistance, this study optimized the turbine at Mupo Hydropower Station in Sichuan Province. Using the Plackett–Burman design, three runner parameters were identified as most influential: blade number, inlet setting angle, and outlet setting angle. A central composite design based on response surface methodology was then applied to these factors. Multiple regression models linking the parameters to turbine head, efficiency, and wear rate were established, revealing a trade-off between hydraulic performance and wear resistance. Multi-objective optimization, a method that simultaneously addresses and balances multiple competing goals, was performed to minimize wear rate while maintaining the original head. The optimal parameter combination was obtained as follows: blade number Z₃ = 17, inlet setting angle ${\alpha }_1$ = 65°, and outlet setting angle ${\alpha }_2$ = 22°. Numerical results demonstrate a 32.3% reduction in runner wear under these parameters, with the head requirement satisfied, confirming a significant improvement in overall turbine performance. Full article

In low-permeability reservoirs, studying reservoir sensitivity is crucial for optimizing water flooding, as it identifies detrimental mineral-fluid interactions that can cause formation damage and reduce injection efficiency. However, existing diagnostic methods for sensitivity-induced damage rely on post-facto pressure monitoring and lack a quantitative relationship between sensitivity factors and water injectivity impairment. Furthermore, correlating microscale interactions with macroscopic injectivity parameters remains challenging, causing current models to inadequately represent actual injection behavior. This study combines microscopic techniques (e.g., SEM, XRD, NMR) with macroscopic core flooding experiments under various sensitivity-inducing conditions to analyze the influence of reservoir mineral composition on flow capacity, evaluate formation sensitivity, and assess the dynamic impact on water injectivity. The quantitative relationship between clay minerals and injectivity impairment in low-permeability reservoirs is also investigated. The results indicate that flow capacity is predominantly governed by the type and content of sensitive minerals. In water-sensitive reservoirs, water injection induces clay swelling and migration, leading to flow path reconfiguration and water-blocking effects. In salt-sensitive formations, high-salinity water promotes salt precipitation within pore throats, reducing permeability. In velocity-sensitive formations, fine particle migration causes flow resistance to initially increase slightly and then gradually decline with continued injection. Acidizing generally enhances pore connectivity but induces pore-throat plugging in chlorite-rich reservoirs. Alkaline fluids can exacerbate heterogeneity and generate precipitates, though appropriate concentrations may improve connectivity. Under low effective stress, rock dilation increases porosity and permeability, while elevated stress causes compaction, increasing flow impedance. 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

B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is characterized by the abnormal proliferation of B-lineage lymphocytes in the bone marrow (BM). The roles of immune cells within the BM microenvironment remain incompletely understood. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) provides the potential for groundbreaking insights into the pathogenesis of B-ALL. In this study, scRNA-seq was conducted on BM samples from 17 B-ALL patients (B-ALL cohorts) and 13 healthy controls (HCs). Bioinformatics analyses, including clustering, differential expression, pathway analysis, and gene set variation analysis, systematically identified immune cell types and assessed T-cell prognostic and metabolic heterogeneity. A metabolic-feature-based machine learning model was developed for B-ALL subtyping. Furthermore, T-cell–monocyte interactions, transcription factor (TF) activity, and drug enrichment analyses were performed to identify therapeutic targets. The results indicated significant increases in Pro-B cells, alongside decreases in B cells, NK cells, monocytes, and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) among B-ALL patients, suggesting immune dysfunction. Clinical prognosis correlated significantly with the distribution of T-cell subsets. Metabolic heterogeneity categorized patients into four distinct groups (A–D), all exhibiting enhanced major histocompatibility class I (MHC-I)-mediated intercellular communication. The metabolic-based machine learning model achieved precise classification of B-ALL groups. Analysis of TF activity underscored the critical roles of MYC, STAT3, and TCF7 within the B-ALL immunometabolic network. Drug targeting studies revealed that dorlimomab aritox and palbociclib specifically target dysregulation in ribosomal and CDK4/6 pathways, offering novel therapeutic avenues. This study elucidates immunometabolic dysregulation in B-ALL, characterized by altered cellular composition, metabolic disturbances, and abnormal cellular interactions. Key TFs were identified, and targeted drug profiles were established, demonstrating the significant clinical potential of integrating immunological mechanisms with metabolic regulation for the treatment of B-ALL. Full article

In China, Pyracantha fortuneana has been consumed as a nutritious plant to improve indigestion. In the current study, the main chemical composition of P. fortuneana fruits was extracted and analysed for composition. Free fatty acids (FFA)-induced normal human hepatic L02 cells were used to construct a high-fat cell model, and lipid deposition in Caenorhabditis elegans was induced by a high concentration of glucose to study the anti-hyperlipidemic effects of the main components. The results showed that the flavonoid content of PFF (P. fortuneana Flavonoid Fractions) was 80.28%, and it contained various flavonoids such as epicatechin, isoquercetin, rutin, quercetin, and myricitrin, while the saponin content of PFS (P. fortuneana Saponin Fractions) was 74.4%, and it contained saponins such as shionone, crategolic acid, and ursolic acid. PFF and PFS significantly reduced the content of lipid droplets in high-fat L02 cells, inhibited mitochondrial membrane potential decline, regulated the fat accumulation by up-regulating the relative mRNA expression levels in the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, as well as the CPT-1 and SIRT1 genes in lipid metabolism. Meanwhile, both PFF and PFS significantly reduced lipid deposition, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and catalase activity in C. elegans. In summary, our results indicated that the flavonoids and saponins of P. fortuneana are potential natural products in antihyperlipidemic effect. Full article

Maintaining stable tunnel face pressure in slurry shield tunneling is critically dependent on the formation of a low-permeability filter cake. However, the knowledge of the filter cake and mud spurt is not specifically understood. Using a modified fluid loss test, this study investigates the formation and hydraulic properties of filter cakes from various slurry mixtures under different pressures. The key findings reveal that CMC-Na (sodium carboxymethyl cellulose) serves as the most effective additive for enhancing slurry performance. A comprehensive database of constitutive model parameters for 15 slurry compositions was established, enabling precise prediction of the filter cake’s hydraulic conductivity and void ratio under any pressure. Analysis of the cyclic formation process revealed that the dynamic filter cake averages two-thirds of the maximum thickness, offering a key parameter for stability control. Furthermore, a practical mud spurt model was proposed that predicts slurry penetration by avoiding the need for site-specific empirical constants or complex column tests, relying instead on standard geotechnical and slurry parameters. The results provide practical criteria for filter cake formation and directly applicable models to optimize slurry design, thereby enhancing the control and safety of shield tunneling. Full article

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of digital health intervention (DHI) or/and personalized healthy breakfast guidance (PHBG) on the breakfast behavior and body composition of young adults in Tianjin, and to explore the underlying behavioral mechanisms using the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) framework. Methods: In this single-blind, stratified RCT, 160 participants (n = 40/group) were randomly assigned to a control group, DHI group, PHBG group, or DHI + PHBG group. Breakfast behavior (primary outcome), HAPA constructs, and body composition were assessed at baseline and after 1 month. Group differences were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test, chi-square test, and linear mixed-effects models. Mediation analysis assessed indirect effects via HAPA variables. Results: After a 1-month intervention, adherence to healthy breakfast guidelines was highest in the DHI + PHBG group (80%), followed by the PHBG (72.5%) and DHI (50%) groups, compared to 7.5% in the control group (χ² = 51.127, p < 0.001, DHI + PHBG group > DHI group: χ² = 7.912, p < 0.05). All interventions advanced participants along HAPA stages (H = 34.678, p < 0.001) and improved self-efficacy and planning. PHBG and DHI + PHBG further enhanced outcome expectations, intention, and, for the DHI + PHBG group, self-monitoring. Self-efficacy mediated 17.636% of the PHBG effect and 13.305% of the DHI + PHBG effect, and self-monitoring mediated 7.401% of the DHI + PHBG effect. Waist-to-hip ratios decreased modestly in all intervention groups (β = −0.015 to −0.013, p < 0.05), but no significant changes were observed in other body composition indices. Conclusions: DHI, PHBG, and especially their combination, improved breakfast habits in young adults, with self-efficacy as a key mediator. However, the effects of these interventions on body composition were limited due to the short duration of the trial. Full article

Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite profiles produced by pultrusion method are widely used as an alternative to traditional building materials due to their lightness and corrosion resistance. However, these materials are susceptible to crushing type fractures known as “web crippling” especially under local loading due to their anisotropic structure and limited mechanical strength. Understanding web-crippling behavior is crucial for the safe and efficient structural application of pultruded GFRP profiles. This study report narrated the review of experimental, numerical, and analytical investigations of web-crippling behavior of pultruded GFRP profiles. Highlights of the major findings include profile geometry and detailing of the flange–web joint, loading types (end-two-flange (ETF), interior-two-flange (ITF), end bearing with ground (EG), interior bearing with ground (IG)), bearing plate dimensions, presence of web openings, and elevated temperatures. It also considers the limitations of current standards, along with new modeling techniques that incorporate finite element analysis as well as artificial intelligence. Damage types such as web–flange joint fractures, crushing, and buckling were comparatively analyzed; design approaches based on finite element modeling and artificial intelligence-supported prediction models were also included. These insights provide guidance for optimizing profile design and improving predictive models for structural engineering applications. Gaps in current design standards and modeling approaches are highlighted to guide future research. Full article

The ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method was optimized to extract bioactive compounds from Licaria armeniaca tissues. Extraction time, solid–liquid ratio (m/v), and ethanol percentage were investigated using a central composite rotational design and response surface methodology (RSM). Antioxidant activity (DPPH) and total phenolic content (TPC) served as the response variables. Most efficient extraction conditions were obtained for leaves (64.88% ethanol, 26.07 min, 6.23% m/v; R² = 0.93) and thin branches (73.81% ethanol, 31.34 min, 11% m/v; R² = 0.74). For thick branches, no significant predictive model was obtained, and optimal points were defined based on the best observed TPC and DPPH results (50% ethanol, 35 min, 11% m/v). The optimized extracts were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry associated with molecular networking, GNPS (Global Natural Products Social Molecular Network) library searching, and machine learning tools. Metabolomic profiling indicated that leaves contained mainly alkaloids (46.34%), amino acids and peptides (19.51%), and shikimate derivatives and phenylpropanoids (12.20%). Thin branches showed predominance of alkaloids (35.97%), amino acids and peptides (20.86%), and carbohydrates (12.23%), while thick branches contained alkaloids (46.34%), amino acids and peptides (25.00%), and fatty acids (14.26%). Additionally, the extracts displayed significant cytotoxic activity against cancer cell lines of AGP-01 (malignant gastric ascites), AHOL (Human glioblastoma) and A549 (lung cancer) with IC50 values less than 50 μg/mL. Full article

The combined effects of meteorological factors and aerosol chemical compositions on atmospheric visibility in Shanghai were investigated in this study based on the observed hourly dataset during 2022–2024. Correlation analysis and random forest modeling are employed to quantify the relative contributions of these factors. The results reveal significant negative correlations between visibility and both PM_2.5 concentration and relative humidity, with partial correlation coefficient of −0.62 and −0.61. Nitrate, ammonium, and other aerosol components substantially modulate these relationships. The random forest model explains 83% of the variance when only meteorological variables are considered, increasing to 93% with the inclusion of aerosol chemical composition. Under 30 km high-visibility conditions, PM_2.5 is the dominant predictor (39%) of atmospheric visibility variation, followed by relative humidity (35%). In contrast, during low-visibility conditions (lower than 7.5 km), relative humidity becomes the primary contributor (30%), the influence of PM_2.5 weakens (18%), and aerosol chemical components account for a larger share (30%). These findings provide important insights into the mechanisms governing visibility variability under different environmental conditions. Full article

To promote the high-value recycling of machining return materials from powder metallurgy (P/M) FGH95 superalloy production, a vacuum induction melting refining process was developed to achieve gas impurity purification and compositional control. Cylindrical solid returns obtained from wire-cut electrical discharge machining were used as feedstock, and the effects of refining temperature (1550–1650 °C) and holding time (10–30 min) on impurity removal and element stability were systematically investigated. For each condition, three repeated melts were performed, and the average gas contents (mean ± SD) were evaluated by inert-gas fusion analysis. Results show that at 1650 °C, O decreased from 8 ppm to 6 ppm, N decreased from 6 ppm to 3 ppm, while H remained below the detection limit (<1 ppm). Prolonged refining caused slight compositional deviations, with Cr exhibiting measurable volatilization, whereas Al and Ti showed minor increases (<0.06 wt.%). A kinetic model describing O removal was established, yielding an apparent activation energy of 128 kJ·mol⁻¹, confirming diffusion-controlled deoxidation behavior. The optimal refining condition—1650 °C for 10 min—achieved efficient removal of O and H while maintaining alloy compositional stability. This study provides both a practical refining route and a kinetic basis for the purification and reuse of machining returns in nickel-based P/M superalloys, contributing to cost reduction and sustainable manufacturing. Full article

During the calcination of petroleum coke in a vertical shaft calciner, the particle packing structure exerts a decisive influence on the bed resistance characteristics and further significantly affects the devolatilization efficiency. This study employs three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) scanning technology to digitally reconstruct the pore structure of a packed bed of petroleum coke particles. Moreover, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation model is developed to simulate gas flow at the pore scale within the packed bed. A systematic analysis is conducted on the influence mechanisms of various factors, including particle size, gas velocity, gas composition, temperature, and bed length, on the gas flow resistance characteristics within the bed. The research findings indicate that the porosity of the packed beds of petroleum coke particles with different sizes ranges from 38.7% to 52%. The pore size within the bed exhibits a positive correlation with particle size, and gas migration predominantly occurs through slit flow. Under identical inlet gas velocity conditions, smaller particle sizes result in higher maximum gas velocities and greater unit pressure drops within the bed. At low gas velocities (e.g., 0.01–0.06 m/s in this work), both the maximum gas velocity and maximum pore pressure demonstrate a significant linear increase. The various factors exhibit different degrees of influence on the unit pressure drop, with particle size having the most significant impact, followed by gas velocity, then temperature, and finally gas composition. Consequently, the relevant research findings provide crucial theoretical support for optimizing the calcination process in vertical shaft calciners, expanding the range of raw material adaptability, and reducing production energy consumption. Full article

The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in regulating cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and drug resistance. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) in vitro models and animal models often fail to replicate the biochemical and biophysical complexity of human tumors, leading to low predictive power in preclinical drug screening. In recent years, scaffold-based three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models have emerged as promising alternatives, offering a more physiologically relevant context for studying tumor behavior. Among these, biomimetic scaffolds capable of replicating the composition, stiffness, porosity, and signaling features of the tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) are of particular interest. This review provides a comprehensive overview of scaffold-based approaches for mimicking the TME in vitro. After outlining the key characteristics of the tumor ECM, we discuss various scaffold typologies, including those based on natural, synthetic, and hybrid biomaterials, as well as decellularized ECM. Recent advancements in fabrication technologies, such as electrospinning and 3D bioprinting, are also highlighted for their role in replicating the geometric and mechanical features of tumor tissues. Special attention is given to the integration of vascular components and stromal cells to recapitulate the complexity of the TME. Finally, we explore current limitations and future directions, emphasizing the need for standardized and reproducible models, particularly in the context of personalized cancer therapy. Full article

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication by transporting functionally active molecules, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. While extensive research has focused on EVs generated from traditional two-dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures (2D-EVs), the emergence of three-dimensional (3D) organoid systems has led to the development of organoid-derived EVs (OEVs), which more closely mimic the physiological conditions of native tissues. In contrast to 2D cultures, 3D systems offer improved EV yield and cargo specificity, enhancing their translational potential. This review discusses the distinctive features of OEVs, including their enhanced tissue relevance, diverse molecular composition, and promising therapeutic applications in areas like disease modeling, regenerative therapies, and targeted drug delivery. We also present an overview of the current organoid-based platforms used to produce OEVs, recent innovations in EV modification and bioengineering, and the practical barriers to their clinical adoption. By comparing the strengths and limitations of OEVs with those of 2D-EVs, we provide a comprehensive perspective on their future role in precision healthcare, biomarker identification, and advanced therapeutic strategies. Full article

The insistent presence of detrimental chemical dyes, such as methylene blue (MB), in aquatic ecosystems creates a significant environmental fear that requires the development of innovative and effective remediation methods. This study examines the production and application of a novel carboxylate cellulose nanocrystal-silica-titanium dioxide (CCNC-silica-TiO₂) hybrid composite aerogel designed to enhance the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB). Carboxylic groups were incorporated into cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) derived from sugarcane bagasse (SCB) waste to improve their dye adsorption capacity. The CCNCs were later incorporated into a silica aerogel matrix using a sol–gel method, followed by the introduction of TiO₂ nanoparticles. Characterization techniques, including FTIR and XRD, confirmed the successful chemical functionalization and composite synthesis. SEM analysis revealed a highly porous three-dimensional architecture, whilst BET surface area assessment showed that the CCNC-SiO₂-TiO₂ aerogel possessed a significant specific surface area of 448.69 m²/g. Under ultraviolet light, the hybrid aerogel demonstrated remarkable photocatalytic performance, achieving a 93% degradation rate of methylene blue, far above the 22% recorded in a CCNC-silica control. The degradation kinetics followed a pseudo-first-order model. The composite demonstrated significant reusability, maintaining over 70% efficiency after five consecutive cycles. The findings indicate that the adsorptive capacity of carboxylate CNCs, together with the photocatalytic efficiency of TiO₂, improves the efficacy, stability, and longevity of the CCNC-SiO₂-TiO₂ aerogel in wastewater treatment. Full article