Search Results (33)

Under braking conditions, the valve is prone to lateral swing, which significantly compromises engine performance and longevity. Research indicates that the asymmetric vortex structures around the valve are one of the primary factors inducing effects such as lateral swing. Therefore, addressing this issue, this paper proposes three structural optimization strategies for controlling the flow around the valve: modifying the valve’s camber radius, altering the exhaust port structure that the valve cooperates with, and applying tripwires to the valve. The control effects of these three strategies are demonstrated through three-dimensional numerical simulation techniques, and the control mechanisms are elucidated through vortex field structure analysis. The results reveal that the tripwires improve the asymmetry of the flow field around the valve by disrupting vortex formation at its inception. These analytical results provide specific solutions for reducing the lateral force that induces valve deviation under braking conditions, which possesses important engineering significance. Full article

The evolution of electronic technology has intensified the demand for lithium-ion batteries to achieve elevated energy density, prolonged cycling longevity, and enhanced safety. Traditional graphite anodes are inadequate in meeting these requirements. α-Fe₂O₃ possesses a high theoretical capacity and is abundantly available; however, its poor conductivity and significant volume expansion during charge–discharge cycles restrict its practical applicability. This study addresses these issues by developing a three-layer cooperative structural anode material composed of foam nickel (NF), α-Fe₂O₃, and polypyrrole (PPY). Employing a hydrothermal method, α-Fe₂O₃ nanowires were in-situ grown on the 3D framework of foam nickel, followed by electro-polymerization to achieve a dense PPY coating. The foam nickel offers a highly conductive scaffold and mechanical support, while PPY enhances conductivity, provides structural buffering, and facilitates in-situ nitrogen doping. Collectively, these components synergistically improve conductivity, mitigate volume expansion, and optimize the solid electrolyte interphase. This composite material demonstrates comprehensive enhancements in conductivity, structural stability, and interface compatibility, as evidenced by the well-preserved structural integrity after prolonged cycling, thereby overcoming the performance limitations associated with singular α-Fe₂O₃ and simplistic composite systems, and presenting novel insights and technical support for the advancement of high-energy-density lithium-ion battery anodes. Full article

Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa Andr.) is a traditional ornamental plant of high economic and cultural value, but its flower longevity is often limited by petal water loss. Cuticular wax serves as an essential barrier against non-stomatal water loss, and the AP2/EREBP (APETALA2/Ethylene-Responsive Element Binding Protein) transcription factor family is known to regulate wax biosynthesis. However, little information is available on the roles of AP2/EREBP genes in petal cuticle formation in tree peony. In this study, we performed transcriptome sequencing on petals of the tree peony cultivar ‘Bai Wang Shi Zi’ at three developmental stages (early, middle, and late). Using the assembled transcriptomic data, we identified 29 high-confidence AP2/EREBP family members, which were phylogenetically classified into AP2, ERF, and DREB subfamilies. Expression profiling revealed that 18 of these genes exhibited stage-specific expression patterns during petal development. Among them, two homologs of Arabidopsis SHN1 (SHINE 1) and WRI3 (WRINKLED 3), designated PsSHN1 and PsWRI3, showed peak expression at the middle stage. By co-expression analysis and phylogenetic comparison, three downstream candidate genes were identified and named PsCER2, PsKAS1, and PsLTPG1, based on their homology with known wax-related genes. Dual-luciferase reporter assays indicated that PsSHN1 and PsWRI3 can activate the promoters of PsCER2, PsKAS1, and PsLTPG1, suggesting a possible cooperative regulation of cuticle formation. Collectively, our findings provide promising candidate genes for prolonging floral lifespan by improving petal cuticular wax accumulation, and lay a preliminary foundation for molecular breeding and quality improvement of tree peony and other ornamental flowers. Full article

Life expectancy is a key indicator of public health and sustainable development in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where rapid economic growth, urbanization, and fossil-fuel dependence create environmental and health challenges. This study examines the determinants of life expectancy in six Gulf Cooperation Council countries from 2000 to 2023, focusing on death rates, renewable energy consumption, gross domestic product (GDP) per capita growth, government health expenditure, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. The empirical strategy combines cross-sectional dependence and slope heterogeneity tests, second-generation panel unit root tests, panel cointegration analysis, and a dynamic System Generalized Method of Moments (System GMM) estimator, with Driscoll–Kraay fixed-effects estimates used for robustness. The results show that higher death rates significantly reduce life expectancy, whereas renewable energy consumption and government health expenditure improve longevity. GDP per capita growth has a modest positive effect, while CO₂ emissions negatively affect life expectancy, confirming the adverse public health consequences of environmental degradation. Robustness checks support the reliability of the main findings. Overall, the evidence highlights the need for integrated policies that combine clean energy transition, stronger environmental regulation, preventive healthcare investment, and sustainable urban development to improve long-term health outcomes in resource-dependent economies in the region. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in childhood. Rotary bur handpiece excavation has been the standardised mechanical benchmark for infected dentine removal in the primary dentition, but it is associated with noise, vibration, and nociceptive triggers that influence behavioural cooperation in paediatric patients. CMCR gels have been developed for selective softening and excavation of infected primary dentine without macroscopic removal of adjacent sound tissue at the protocol-defined site. The objective of this review was to systematically synthesise the evidence on chemomechanical caries removal (CMCR) using Papacarie or Brix 3000 compared with infected dentine excavation using rotary bur handpiece instrumentation in the primary (deciduous) dentition, focusing on excavation effectiveness, paediatric procedural tolerance, anaesthetic requirement, dentine surface morphology at the excavation interface, and protocol-level operative duration per primary molar. Methods: A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for English-language studies from database inception to 31 December 2023. Although no eligible paediatric dental records addressing CMCR gels for excavation of infected primary dentine were identified before 2009, the earlier literature was not intentionally excluded; rather, it did not retrieve topic-specific matches meeting the eligibility criteria. Clinical and in vitro investigations evaluating CMCR gels (Papacarie or Brix 3000) for excavation of infected primary dentine in primary molars were eligible. Outcomes were aggregated qualitatively by excavation approach and reported per primary molar at the individual study protocol level. Quantitative pooling or meta-analysis was not conducted due to heterogeneity in study designs and lack of unified denominators across the included literature. Results: Fifteen studies were included (randomised clinical trials, observational clinical investigations, clinical comparative studies, and in vitro assessments) evaluating infected dentine excavation in primary molars. CMCR gels achieved successful excavation of infected primary dentine with dentine preservation at the adjacent non-infected interface without macroscopic loss of sound tissue. Individual study protocols that reported paediatric pain outcomes during primary-molar excavation registered lower pain scores, reduced acoustic/vibratory stress, lower anaesthetic escalation cycles, and decreased local anaesthesia requirement per primary molar compared with rotary bur handpiece excavation arms. Dentine surfaces analysed under SEM protocols at the infected excavation interface described patent tubules, absence of compacted smear at the interface, preserved intertubular dentine, and no iatrogenic gouging or macrofracture of non-infected primary dentine per molar at the individual study level. Operative duration for CMCR ranged from 10 to 25 min per primary molar per tooth, while rotary bur handpiece excavation required 3–10 min per primary molar per tooth, depending on cavity extension and dentine hardness, as defined by each study protocol. Microleakage and bond-strength assays performed in vitro at the individual protocol level did not register disadvantage signals traceable to adhesive or sealing incompatibility following CMCR gel excavation per primary molar. Conclusions: CMCR with Papacarie or Brix 3000 enables protocol-level selective excavation of infected primary dentine in primary molars, reducing acoustic, vibratory, and nociceptive triggers that influence behaviour and local anaesthetic requirement per primary molar. Clinical inference should be restricted to infected dentine excavation per primary-molar denominators, avoiding extrapolation to all caries depths or all deciduous-tooth types. Standardised paediatric primary-molar infected dentine excavation trials with homogeneous denominators, bias-controlled outcome instruments, and longitudinal follow-up are required to strengthen cavity-depth indications, pulp-proximal excavation reliability, and restorative longevity guidance in the primary dentition clinical workflow. Full article

Plant polyphenols have emerged as potent bioactive molecules that can modulate key cellular pathways associated with aging and chronic disorders. The Mediterranean diet and the traditional Japanese style of life are rich in polyphenol-containing foods and beverages, and epidemiological evidence links these dietary patterns to increased longevity and reduced morbidity. This narrative review examines the chemical description of plant polyphenols, their mechanisms of action, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hormetic effects, and how supplementation or a diet rich in these compounds may provide further life extension. We discuss the major classes of polyphenols present in the Mediterranean dietary pattern (e.g., resveratrol and hydroxytyrosol) and in the Japanese diet (e.g., epigallocatechin gallate and soy isoflavones), comparing their biological behaviors and cooperative effects on metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative conditions. We also examine a few preclinical and clinical studies that explain the beneficial impact of these chemicals on aging-associated biomarkers. Furthermore, both dietary habits are characterized by low consumption of processed foods and sugary carbonated drinks and reduced utilization of deep-frying with linoleic acid-rich oils, a practice that reduces the formation of harmful lipid peroxidation products, notably 4-hydroxynonenal, known to be implicated in accelerating the aging process. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is also characterized by a low/moderate daily consumption of wine, mainly red wine. This work debates emerging evidence addressing issues of bioavailability, dosage optimization, and formulation technologies for polyphenol supplementation, also comparing differences and similarities with the vegan and vegetarian diets. We also explore how these chemicals could modulate epigenetic modifications that affect gene expression patterns pertinent to health and aging. In conclusion, we aim to show a consolidated framework for the comprehension of how plant polyphenols could be utilized in nutritional strategies for potentiating life expectancy while stimulating further research on nutraceutical development. Full article

Background/Objectives: The global population is rapidly aging, raising interest in dietary practices for promoting the healthspan. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the state of diet and longevity research over the past decade, addressing the lack of bibliometric synthesis within the field. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was performed using the keywords “diet” and “longevity” on English-language articles from the Web of Science database that were published from 2015 to 2024. Data were analyzed using Web of Science tools, InCites, and VOSviewer to identify trends in publication output, citation metrics, coauthorship networks, institutional contributions, and keyword co-occurrence patterns. Results: Overall, 2203 articles meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the analysis. Publication volume and citation counts gradually increased, peaking in 2021. Countries, including the United Kingdom, and organizations, such as the National Institutes of Health and Harvard University, had significant citation impact, and the United States and China led productivity. Molecular processes (oxidative stress and autophagy), dietary models (Mediterranean diet and calorie restriction), and public health issues (obesity and mortality) were the main thematic clusters. Model species, including Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster, were frequently used. Regional disparities in research production and notable terminology variability were noted. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the development and diversity of nutrition and longevity research while highlighting novel molecular and translational topics. More international cooperation, uniform language, and multidisciplinary frameworks are warranted to promote equal scientific advancement worldwide and connect mechanistic discoveries with therapeutic outcomes. Full article

Information theory has long been integrated into the study of biological ageing, for example, in examining the roles of genetic and epigenetic fidelity in cellular and organismal longevity. Here, we introduce a theoretical model that interprets ageing in multicellular systems through the lens of Fisher information. Previous theories have suggested that the ageing of multicellular organisms is an inevitable consequence of the inherent tension between individual cell reproduction and the homeostasis of the multicellular system. Utilising concepts from information theory and statistical mechanics, we show that Fisher information parametrises the dynamics of this tension through non-monotonic behaviour, which depends on an optimal balance of competition and cooperation between cells. Moreover, Fisher information suggests that the ability to infer true biological age from a sample evolves through complex dynamics over an organism’s lifespan. Full article

Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), also known as MX₂, have attracted considerable attention due to their structure analogous to graphene and unique properties. With superior electronic characteristics, tunable bandgaps, and an ultra-thin two-dimensional structure, they are positioned as significant contenders in advancing electrocatalytic technologies. This article provides a comprehensive review of the research progress of two-dimensional TMDs in the field of electrocatalytic water splitting. Based on their fundamental properties and the principles of electrocatalysis, strategies to enhance their electrocatalytic performance through layer control, doping, and interface engineering are discussed in detail. Specifically, this review delves into the basic structure, properties, reaction mechanisms, and measures to improve the catalytic performance of TMDs in electrocatalytic water splitting, including the creation of more active sites, doping, phase engineering, and the construction of heterojunctions. Research in these areas can provide a deeper understanding and guidance for the application of TMDs in the field of electrocatalytic water splitting, thereby promoting the development of related technologies and contributing to the solution of energy and environmental problems. TMDs hold great potential in electrocatalytic water splitting, and future research needs to further explore their catalytic mechanisms, develop new TMD materials, and optimize the performance of catalysts to achieve more efficient and sustainable energy conversion. Additionally, it is crucial to investigate the stability and durability of TMD catalysts during long-term reactions and to develop strategies to improve their longevity. Interdisciplinary cooperation will also bring new opportunities for TMD research, integrating the advantages of different fields to achieve the transition from basic research to practical application. Full article

Despite their relatively small numbers, large old trees play disproportionately important roles in global biodiversity and ecosystem functions. There is a lack of systematic reviews and quantitative analyses of the accumulated literature. Understanding the research context and evolution could pump prime research and conservation endeavors. Using the comprehensive Web of Science, we applied VOSviewer (1.6.19) and CiteSpace (6.1R2) bibliometric software to examine the large old tree research field in 2000–2022. The queries of the bibliographic database generated quantitative–visual depictions in the form of knowledge maps. The nodes denote research intensity, and inter-node linkages denote the pathways and frequencies of collaborative activities. The research outputs differed significantly in terms of regions, countries, institutions, high-citation articles, productive researchers, hot topics, and research frontiers. Conspicuous spatial disparities were displayed, with the U.S.A., China, and Australia leading in publication counts and a cluster of European countries making considerable collective contributions. The research collaboration demonstrated a dichotomy: European countries networked more by geographical propinquity, and the top three countries connected by long-distance leap-frog jumps. The entrenched discrepancies between the endowed developed domains vis-à-vis the deprived developing domains were clearly expressed. The research productivity progressed through three stages: initial, growth, and flourishing. The leading institutions, researchers, and highly cited papers were recognized. The keyword analysis pinpointed diverse research hotspots: growth dynamics, conservation and management, ecological functions, and environmental response. This study informs recommendations for future research directions and cooperation on longevity mechanisms, evolutionary adaptation, dynamic monitoring, and temporal–spatial patterns. The integrated application of GIS, machine learning, and big data technologies could strengthen research capability. Full article

Health Improvement Through Employee Control (HITEC) is a 16-year program directed toward the health of corrections personnel and developed through the application of the principles of Participatory Action Research (PAR) and participatory ergonomics. Its impetus has always been the adverse health status of the corrections workforce: early mortality, depression, obesity, and hypertension. The HITEC program trained small “Design Teams” (DTs) of front-line personnel in participatory methods for intervention design for health improvement and organizational change in line with the Total Worker Health^® principles. Periodic surveys and physical testing were introduced for longitudinal assessments. Comparative interventions at comparable sites included DTs without a priori assignation, problem-focused kaizen effectiveness teams (KETs), and bargaining unit-centered DTs. DT resilience and the replacement of members who transferred facilities or retired was aided by novel cooperative administrative structures. DT-generated interventions included stress lounges, changes in critical event report writing, a joint program with trained inmates to improve air quality, and training in staff mental health and sleep behavior. A specialized peer-to-peer Health Mentoring Program (HMP) paired new officers with trained peers. Many interventions and program features were institutionalized, thus improving prospects for self-supporting program longevity. Participatory interventions designed and supported by the corrections workforce were found to be both feasible and exceptionally effective. Full article

In this investigation, a comprehensive assessment was conducted on the cooperative effects of Super Absorbent Polymers (SAP), limestone powder, and white cement within the realm of fair-faced concrete. We discerned that while white cement augments the color vibrancy of the concrete, its accelerated hydration rate potentially induced early-stage cracks and compromised performance. To mitigate these challenges, SAP was incorporated to regulate early hydration, and limestone powder was introduced as a fortifying agent to bolster the mechanical robustness of the concrete. Our findings highlighted not only the capability of SAP to enhance concrete workability and longevity but also the pivotal role of limestone powder in amplifying its mechanical attributes. Microscopic evaluations, undertaken via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), unveiled the potential of both SAP and limestone powder in refining the microstructure of the concrete, thereby elevating its performance metrics. Synthesizing the research outcomes, we pinpointed an optimal amalgamation of SAP, limestone powder, and white cement in fair-faced concrete, offering a valuable reference for prospective architectural applications. Full article

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs), constrained by limited resources, demand routing strategies that prioritize energy efficiency. The tactic of cooperative routing, which leverages the broadcast nature of wireless channels, has garnered attention for its capability to amplify routing efficacy. This manuscript introduces a power-conscious routing approach, tailored for resource-restricted WSNs. By exploiting cooperative communications, we introduce an innovative relay node selection technique within clustered networks, aiming to curtail energy usage while safeguarding data dependability. This inventive methodology has been amalgamated into the Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL), giving rise to the cooperative and efficient routing protocol (CERP). The devised CERP protocol pinpoints and selects the most efficacious relay node, ensuring that packet transmission is both energy-minimal and reliable. Performance evaluations were executed to substantiate the proposed strategy, and its practicality was examined using an Arduino-based sensor node and the Contiki operating system in real-world scenarios. The outcomes affirm the efficacy of the proposed strategy, outshining the standard RPL concerning reliability and energy conservation, enhancing RPL reliability by 10% and energy savings by 18%. This paper is posited to contribute to the evolution of power-conscious routing strategies for WSNs, crucial for prolonging sensor node battery longevity while sustaining dependable communication. Full article

The oil and gas (O&G) field is the most sought-after industry in the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCCs) and holds significant importance in the region’s economy. Therefore, this sector requires various industrial electrical, and electronics equipment (EEE) products to perform multiple tasks throughout the upstream, downstream, and midstream segments. However, as these EEE products approach their end of life (EoL), the sector faces the challenge of managing failed units. As a result, replacing or recycling failed EEE products can contribute to the growing problem of electronic waste (e-waste), which can have severe environmental consequences. In addition, while some EEE products can be repaired or remanufactured with low reliability, many others cannot be fixed due to various technical reasons. This paper’s primary goal is to propose a circular economy strategy and sustainable practices that promote the longevity of industrial EoL electronic products in the O&G sector through remanufacturing. We introduced and implemented a new mathematical score, the Index Of Repairability (IOR), which aims to assess the ease of EEE repairability in the O&G sector and improve their lifespan and durability based on four criteria: design, spare parts availability, software access, and documentation. This novel mathematical metric leverages the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and set theory. Additionally, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can adopt and benefit from this innovative IOR by incorporating eco-design principles and designing more easily repairable industrial products for technicians, thereby reducing the negative impact of e-waste, enhancing stakeholder satisfaction, and minimizing downtime. Furthermore, governmental organizations can implement regulations and incentives to advocate for and mandate the use of the IOR by OEMs, ensuring that the electronics industry prioritizes repairability, remanufacturing, and sustainability. Full article

The lack of safe levels of asbestos exposure and the long latency of asbestos-related disease (ARD) makes workers’ health surveillance challenging, especially in lower-income countries. This paper aims to present the recently developed Brazilian system for monitoring workers and general population exposed to asbestos (Datamianto), and to discuss the main challenges and opportunities for workers’ health surveillance. Methods: a descriptive study of the Datamianto development process, examining all the stages of system planning, development, improvement, validation, availability, and training of health services for its use, in addition to presenting the main challenges and opportunities for its implementation. Results: The system was developed by a group of software developers, workers’ health specialists, and practitioners, and it was recently incorporated by the Ministry of Health to be used for workers’ health surveillance. It can facilitate the monitoring of exposed individuals, epidemiological data analysis, promote cooperation between health services, and ensure periodical medical screening guaranteed to workers by labor legislation. Moreover, the system has a Business Intelligence (BI) platform to analyze epidemiologic data and produce near real-time reports. Conclusions: Datamianto can support and qualify the healthcare and surveillance of asbestos-exposed workers and ARD, promoting a better quality of life for workers and improving companies’ compliance with legislation. Even so, the system’s significance, applicability, and longevity will depend on the efforts aimed at its implementation and improvement. Full article