Search Results (697)

Given the adverse effects of organic dyes from aqueous solutions on human physiology and the ecological system, establishing an effective system for their elimination is imperative. This study employs the in situ thermal (IST) method to synthesize nanocomposites comprising zeolitic imidazole frameworks, specifically Fe-ZIF-8 and Fe-ZIF-67. The investigation offers a comprehensive evaluation of the properties of these nano-adsorbents for the removal of malachite green (MG). The results indicate a significantly increased adsorption capacity of up to 495 and 552 mg g⁻¹ for Fe-ZIF-8 and Fe-ZIF-67, respectively. Furthermore, they demonstrate removal efficiencies of up to 90% and 95% for MG, respectively. Parameters associated with the adsorption process are derived from isotherms and removal kinetics, specifically the Freundlich model and the pseudo-second-order kinetics model, respectively. The enhanced adsorption capacity observed in Fe-ZIF-8 and Fe-ZIF-67 can be attributed to π–π stacking interactions, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic attraction. After undergoing three cycles, both adsorbents consistently exhibit a high removal efficiency of approximately 85%, indicating notable structural integrity and outstanding potential for repeated use. The examined adsorbents display exceptional efficacy, favorable stability, and substantial specific surface area, underscoring their remarkable adsorption capabilities. The nanocomposites comprising Fe-ZIF-8 and Fe-ZIF-67 demonstrate considerable potential as highly favorable options for the elimination of MG and other cationic organic dyes from aqueous environments. Full article

Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) technology is presented as a key solution to optimize the transmission capacity of power lines without the need to make investments in new infrastructure. Unlike traditional methods based on static estimates, DLR allows the thermal capacity of conductors to be evaluated in real time, considering the environmental and operational conditions. This article presents a state-of-the-art analysis of this technology, including a review of the main solutions currently available on the market. Likewise, the influence of variables such as ambient temperature, wind speed and direction or solar radiation in the determination of dynamic load capacity is discussed. It also reviews various pilot and commercial projects implemented internationally, evaluating their results and lessons learned. Finally, the main technological, regulatory, and operational challenges faced by the mass adoption of DLR are identified, including aspects such as the prediction of the dynamic capacity value, combination with other flexibility options, or integration with network management systems. This review is intended to serve as a basis for future developments and research in the field. Full article

The adjuvant treatment landscape for hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2–) early breast cancer (EBC) is rapidly evolving, with a diverse range of therapeutic options—including endocrine therapies, bisphosphonates, ovarian function suppression, olaparib, CDK4/6 inhibitors, and emerging agents such as immunotherapy. While these advances have markedly improved patient outcomes, they also introduce challenges related to implementation, monitoring, and resource allocation. Notably, therapies like CDK4/6 inhibitors require particularly close monitoring, creating logistical and capacity challenges for medical oncologists, whose workloads are already stretched due to rising cancer incidence and treatment complexities. These challenges underscore the need for innovative care delivery solutions to ensure patients with EBC continue to receive optimal care. This paper offers a comprehensive guide—a playbook—of multidisciplinary-team-based care models designed to optimize adjuvant treatment delivery in EBC. Drawing on real-world evidence and successful applications across Canadian centers, we explore models led by nurses, nurse practitioners (NPs), general practitioners in oncology (GPO), and pharmacists. Each model leverages the unique expertise of its team to manage treatment toxicities, facilitate adherence, and enhance patient education, thereby promoting effective and sustainable care delivery. Importantly, these models are not intended to compete with one another, but rather to serve as a flexible recipe book from which breast cancer care teams can draw strategies tailored to their local resources and patient needs. By detailing implementation strategies, benefits, and challenges—in many instances supported by quantitative metrics and economic evaluations—this work aims to inspire care teams nationwide to optimize the adjuvant management of patients with HR+, HER2– EBC. Full article

The efficient management of urban parking systems has emerged as a pivotal issue in today’s smart cities, where increasing vehicle populations strain limited parking infrastructure and challenge sustainable urban mobility. Aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the strategic goals of smart city planning, this study presents a sustainability-driven, multiagent simulation-based framework to model, analyze, and optimize smart parking dynamics in congested urban settings. The system architecture integrates ground-level IoT sensors installed in parking spaces, enabling real-time occupancy detection and communication with a centralized system using low-power wide-area communication protocols (LPWAN). This study introduces an intelligent parking guidance mechanism that dynamically directs drivers to the nearest available slots based on location, historical traffic flow, and predicted availability. To manage real-time data flow, the framework incorporates message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT) protocols and edge processing units for low-latency updates. A predictive algorithm, combining spatial data, usage patterns, and time-series forecasting, supports decision-making for future slot allocation and dynamic pricing policies. Field simulations, calibrated with sensor data in a representative high-density urban district, assess system performance under peak and off-peak conditions. A comparative evaluation against traditional first-come-first-served and static parking systems highlights significant gains: average parking search time is reduced by 42%, vehicular congestion near parking zones declines by 35%, and emissions from circling vehicles drop by 27%. The system also improves user satisfaction by enabling mobile app-based reservation and payment options. These findings contribute to broader sustainability goals by supporting efficient land use, reducing environmental impacts, and enhancing urban livability—key dimensions emphasized in sustainable smart city strategies. The proposed framework offers a scalable, interdisciplinary solution for urban planners and policymakers striving to design inclusive, resilient, and environmentally responsible urban mobility systems. Full article

Background/Objectives: Physician-modified endografts (PMEGs) have emerged as a treatment option for complex aortic pathologies. Uncertainty remains regarding the modification techniques and the most suitable materials for customization of fenestrated endografts. The aim of this study was to evaluate CE-marked endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) devices and suitable materials for device modification in PMEGs for juxtarenal and pararenal aortic pathologies. Methods: This single-center observational study included patients treated with the physician-modified TREO (Terumo Aortic, Inchinnan, UK) device between April and December 2024. All patients had aortic ruptures or symptomatic aneurysms and unfavorable anatomy or severe comorbidities, making standard EVAR and open repair unsuitable. Procedural data were recorded and analyzed, including in-hospital outcomes. The “wire visibility” and “sheath–wire contrast” of endografts were assessed under fluoroscopy, and different resheathing techniques were compared. Results: Technical success was achieved in all five patients. The number of fenestrations per patient was 2.6 (range: 1–4). In one patient (1/5), type Ib and type IIIc endoleaks were observed postoperatively, requiring reintervention. No in-hospital mortality occurred. The ICU and hospital stay were 24 h (range: 18–40 h) and 8 days (range: 6–20 days), respectively. Moreover, the One SNARE wire was identified as the wire with the highest “wire visibility”, and Endurant II showed the best “sheath–wire contrast”. Resheathing with the dedicated crimping device was superior to the tape-assisted method. Conclusions: The TREO platform, in synergy with suitable additional materials, offers a viable solution for urgent aortic pathologies requiring PMEGs. Continued refinement of materials and procedural standardization could enhance the long-term outcome. Full article

The natural history of focal non-infected lesions of the abdominal aorta (fl-AA) remains unclear and largely depends on their aetiology. These lesions often involve a focal “tear” or partial disruption of the arterial wall. Penetrating aortic ulcers (PAUs) and intramural hematomas (IMHs) are examples of focal tears in the aortic wall that can either progress to dilatation (saccular aneurysm) or fail to fully propagate through the medial layers, potentially leading to aortic dissection. These conditions typically exhibit a morphology consistent with eccentric saccular aneurysms. The management of focal non-infected pathologies of the abdominal aorta remains a subject of debate. Unlike fusiform abdominal aortic aneurysms, the inconsistent definitions and limited information regarding the natural history of saccular aneurysms (sa-AAAs) have prevented the establishment of universally accepted practice guidelines for their management. As emphasized in the latest 2024 ESVS guidelines, the focal nature of these diseases makes them ideal candidates for endovascular repair (class of evidence IIa—level C). Moreover, the Society for Vascular Surgery just referred to aneurysm diameter as an indication for treatment suggesting using a smaller diameter compared to fusiform aneurysms. Consequently, the management of saccular aneurysms is likely heterogeneous amongst different centres and different operators. Endovascular repair using tube stent grafts offers benefits like reduced recovery times but carries risks of migration and endoleak due to graft rigidity. These complications can influence long-term success. In this context, the use of endovascular bifurcated grafts may provide a more effective solution for treating these focal aortic pathologies. It is essential to achieve optimal sealing regions through anatomical studies of aortic morphology. Additionally, understanding the anatomical characteristics of focal lesions in challenging necks or para-visceral locations is indeed crucial in device choice. Off-the-shelf devices are favoured for their time and cost efficiency, but new endovascular technologies like fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR) and custom-made devices enhance treatment success and patient safety. These innovations provide stent grafts in various lengths and diameters, accommodating different aortic anatomies and reducing the risk of type III endoleaks. Although complicated PAUs and focal saccular aneurysms rarely arise in the para-visceral aorta, the consequences of rupture in this segment might be extremely severe. Experience borrowed from complex abdominal and thoracoabdominal aneurysm repair demonstrates that fenestrated and branched devices can be deployed safely when anatomical criteria are respected. Elective patients derive the greatest benefit from a fenestrated graft, while urgent cases can be treated confidently with off-the-shelf multibranch systems, reserving other types of repairs for emergent or bail-out cases. While early outcomes of these interventions are promising, it is crucial to acknowledge that limited aortic coverage can still impede effective symptom relief and lead to complications such as aneurysm expansion or rupture. Therefore, further long-term studies are essential to consolidate the technical results and evaluate the durability of various graft options. Full article

The conflicting demands of urban trees and walkable surfaces result in significant financial burdens for municipal administrators who understand that urban residents want tree-lined walkable surfaces. This study investigates three methodologies for mitigating this tension: suspended grating systems, modular box systems, and structural soils. A Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) was conducted to evaluate their suitability in dense urban areas, employing criteria categorized into Environmental, Economical, and Other considerations. The comparison focused on critical aspects such as the impact on tree health (root growth, water availability), installation complexity, initial costs, and overall suitability for diverse urban contexts. The MCA indicates that, under the given weighting of criteria, suspended grating systems (especially those suited for existing trees) rank the highest, primarily due to their superior root protection and minimal disturbance to established root systems. In contrast, modular box systems and structural soils emerge as particularly strong contenders for new tree plantings. Structural soils may have application at sites with existing trees, but the costs of removing native soil are a consideration. Sensitivity analysis suggests that modular box systems may become the preferred option when greater emphasis is placed on stormwater management and new plantings, rather than on challenges for existing trees or underground infrastructure. Structural soils score well in cost-effectiveness and installation speed but require careful implementation to address their lower root protection performance and long-term maintenance concerns. Ultimately, the optimal solution depends on unique site-specific conditions and budgetary constraints, emphasizing the necessity of tailored approaches to balance urban infrastructure with tree health. Full article

This paper presents a method of evaluating energy and environmental factors before and after chilled water production system retrofitting at an industrial facility. A general algorithm was used for the analysis of chilled water system retrofitting at a pharmaceutics factory. Two retrofitting variants based on dual-stage absorption chillers supplied from an existing gas-fueled co-generation plant were identified. The proposed variants, i.e., tri-generation systems, were compared with the basic variant, which relied on electric compression water chillers. An evaluation of the variants was performed on the basis of two criteria: annual primary energy consumption and annual carbon dioxide emission. Variant 2, i.e., with a 1650 kW dual-stage absorption water chiller supplied from an existing gas fueled co-generation plant, was chosen as the optimal variant. It achieved a 370 MWh annual primary energy consumption reduction and a 1140 Mg annual carbon dioxide emission reduction. It was found that increasing the co-generation ratio for the CHP plant powering the pharmaceutical factory resulted in lower consumption of primary energy in variants in which the cooling energy supply system was retrofitted based on absorption water chillers. The threshold values of the co-generation ratio were e = 0.37 for Variant 1 and e = 0.34 for Variant 2. A literature survey revealed that there is limited interest in the application of such a solution in industrial plants. The performed analysis showed that the evaluated systems may nonetheless be an attractive option for pharmaceutics factories, leading to the reduction of primary energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, thereby making more electrical power available for core production. The lessons learned during our analysis could be easily transferred to other industrial facilities requiring chilled water production systems. Full article

The demographic shift toward an aging population calls for innovative strategies to ensure independence, health, and quality of life in later years. In this context, Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) solutions, supported by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), offer promising advances for non-invasive and continuous support. Commonly, ICTs are evaluated only from the perspectives related to key performance indicators (KPIs); nevertheless, the design and implementation of such technologies must account for important psychological, social, and ethical dimensions. Radar-based sensing systems are emerging as an option due to their unobtrusive nature and capacity to operate without direct user interaction. This work explores how radar technologies, particularly those operating in the millimeter wave (mmWave) spectrum, can provide core key value indicators (KVIs) essential to aging societies, such as human dignity, trustworthiness, fairness, and sustainability. Through a review of key application domains, the paper illustrates the practical contributions of mmWave radar in Ambient Assisting Living (AAL) contexts, underlining how its technical attributes align with the complex needs of elderly care environments and produce value for society. This work uniquely integrates key value indicator (KVI) frameworks with mmWave radar capabilities to address unmet ethical needs in the AAL domain. It advances existing literature by proposing a value-driven design approach that directly informs technical specifications, enabling the alignment of engineering choices with socially relevant values and supporting the development of technologies for a more inclusive and ethical society. Full article

Background: Heart failure in pediatric patients remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, often associated with congenital heart defects and cardiomyopathies. Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices have emerged as critical therapeutic options, particularly as bridges to transplantation or recovery. The complexity of their use in children necessitates highly specialized solutions. This study aimed to evaluate the quality and performance of selected connection technologies between prosthetic vascular grafts and the outflow cannula of the Religa Heart PED^® pediatric pulsatile pump, with a focus on tightness, surface smoothness, and structural integrity. Methods: Mechanical testing was conducted on various connection types, including static tensile strength and long-term durability under pulsatile flow conditions with biological fluid analogs. Macro and microscopic evaluations assessed the surface quality and potential thrombogenic risks, biological testing encompassed permeability analysis in static and dynamic settings, and hemocompatibility was determined by acute thrombogenicity. Additionally, in vivo observations in a large animal model were used for final qualitative validation. Results: All connection types demonstrated sufficient mechanical strength, with no structural degradation or leakage observed in any samples following long-term testing. Thrombus formation was absent in adhesive connections with Dacron and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts but was observed in the mechanical connection with the PTFE prosthesis. In addition, in vivo studies confirmed the tightness, hemocompatibility, and mechanical stability of the adhesive connection with the Dacron prosthesis. Conclusions: The adhesive connection between the outflow cannula and a Dacron prosthesis demonstrated superior mechanical and biological performance, including resistance to thrombogenesis and hemolysis, as well as stable integration under in vivo conditions. This solution shows high potential for safe application in the Religa Heart PED^® system. Full article

Differential evolution (DE) has emerged as a numerical optimization technique due to its conceptual simplicity and demonstrated effectiveness across diverse problem domains. However, the algorithm’s performance remains critically dependent on appropriate control parameter settings. This paper introduces a novel diversity-based parameter adaptation (div) mechanism, generates two sets of symmetrical parameters, F and CR, adaptively first, and then dynamically selects the final parameters based on individual diversity rankings. It employs a straightforward approach to identify the more effective option from two sets of symmetrical parameters. Comprehensive experimental evaluation demonstrated that the div mechanism significantly enhanced the performance of the DE algorithm. Furthermore, by incorporating div, our enhanced algorithm exhibited superior optimization capability compared to five state-of-the-art DE variants. The results show that, among the 145 cases studied, DTDE-div outperformed others in 92 cases and underperformed in 32 cases, with the lowest performance ranking of 2.59. Consequently, DTDE-div demonstrated superior performance compared to other advanced DE variants. The results highlight the effectiveness of div in enhancing solution precision while preventing premature convergence. Full article

A conflict is a situation where multiple stakeholders have different evaluations over possible scenarios or states. Conflict analysis is an essential tool for understanding and resolving complex conflicts, especially in scenarios involving multiple stakeholders and uncertainties. Confrontation analysis (ConAna) and graph model for conflict resolution (GMCR) have been integrated for dilemma reasoning and conflict resolution in region crisis analysis. This paper discusses the application of decision-theoretic rough sets (DTRS) to three-way decisions (3WD) in dilemma reasoning and conflict resolution. Three-way decisions are a strategy for making decisions under uncertain conditions, which compensates for the shortcomings of traditional two-way decisions (such as accept or reject) by introducing a “delayed decision” option. In terms of dilemma reasoning, we try to address incomplete or conflicting information and provide a more reasonable decision path for decision-makers through comprehensive evaluation of multi-criteria. In terms of conflict resolution, the DTRS model seeks a compromising solution that is acceptable to all parties by analyzing the game relationship between different stakeholders. The DTRS model combines decision-making theory and rough set theory to determine the balanced decision region by constructing a game between multiple criteria. This dynamic integration is of great significance for the study of complex international conflicts, providing a cross-disciplinary perspective for related research. In this paper, we demonstrate the application of DTRS in 3WD and discuss the relationship between DTRS and probabilistic rough sets. The research shows that the DTRS model has significant advantages in dealing with complex decision problems and can effectively deal with the conflicts and uncertainties in multi-criteria decision-making. Full article

This study presents a comprehensive multi-objective optimization framework specifically designed for micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). The framework integrates both traditional and adaptive optimization techniques, named Surrogate-Assisted Multi-Objective Optimization (SAMOO) and Adaptive-SAMOO (A-SAMOO), respectively. By addressing key limitations of traditional approaches, such as the consideration of objective constraints and the provision of multiple design options, the proposed framework enhances both flexibility and practical applicability. Results show that adaptive optimization outperforms traditional offline methods by delivering a greater number and higher quality of optimal solutions while requiring fewer finite element method simulations. The adaptive approach showed a significant advantage by attaining high-quality solutions while requiring only 2.8% of the finite element method (FEM) evaluations compared to traditional methods that do not incorporate surrogate models. This performance boost highlights the advantages of online learning in enhancing the accuracy, speed, and diversity of solutions in MEMS optimization. These optimization schemes were tested on multiple MEMS devices with varying physics and complexities, specifically the U-shaped Lorentz force actuator, serpentine Lorentz force actuator, and thermal actuator. The results highlight the robustness and versatility of the proposed methods, particularly in addressing cases involving discrete design variables and strict objective constraints. This comprehensive, step-by-step framework serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners aiming to optimize MEMS designs from the ground up, providing a reliable and effective approach to multi-objective optimization in MEMS applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: Root canal infections represent a serious challenge to the success of endodontic treatment. The most commonly used antimicrobial irrigants, such as sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), have certain limitations, while endodontic biofilms pose a significant microbiological complexity in the endodontic field. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as a promising irrigant option in root canal treatments; however, few studies are focusing on endodontic biofilms. This work aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-adherence properties of AgNPs against clinically isolated bacteria taken directly from patients with various pulp and periapical diseases. Methods: AgNPs of two sizes were synthesized and characterized. The bactericidal and anti-adherence activities of AgNPs were evaluated through microbiological assays using experimental in vitro and ex vivo tests on oral biofilms taken from patients with symptomatic apical periodontitis (AAP) and pulp necrosis (PN). NaOCl solution was used as the gold standard. Results: The size of AgNPs was uniformly distributed (13.2 ± 0.4 and 62.6 ± 14.9 nm, respectively) with a spherical shape. Both types of nanoparticles exhibited good antimicrobial and anti-adherence activities in all microbiological assays, with a significant difference from NaOCl for in vitro and ex vivo models (p < 0.05). The inhibitory activity of AgNPs is mainly related to the type of microbiological sample and the exposure time. The antibacterial substantivity of both nanoparticle sizes was time-dependent. Conclusions: AgNPs may represent a promising antimicrobial option as an endodontic irrigant during conventional root canal treatments to prevent and control endodontic infections. Full article

Background: Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common compressive neuropathy of the upper limb, and it is characterized by ulnar nerve compression at the elbow. Traditional surgical options, including simple decompression and anterior transposition, have limitations in addressing ulnar nerve instability. This study introduces and evaluates the short-term outcomes of a novel surgical technique, the fascio-aponeurotic epicondylar flap (FAEF), for stabilizing the ulnar nerve and managing its instability. Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted on ten patients with longstanding cubital tunnel syndrome and confirmed ulnar nerve dislocation or instability. All patients underwent surgical intervention using the FAEF technique, which involves creating a quadrangular fascial flap from the epicondylar fascia to stabilize the ulnar nerve within the retrocondylar groove. Outcomes were assessed using clinical follow-ups, the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), VAS, and qDASH scores over a 90-day postoperative period. Results: All ten patients experienced complete resolution of neurological symptoms, including paresthesia, pain, and nerve clicking, by the final follow-up. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with no complications such as infections or hematomas. Grip strength and hand functionality were fully restored, with significant improvements in MHQ scores (mean: 94). Dynamic elbow mobilization initiated on the first postoperative day resulted in full recovery of elbow range of motion. No recurrence of ulnar nerve dislocation was observed. Discussion: The FAEF technique effectively stabilizes the ulnar nerve, alleviates symptoms, and restores function while minimizing risks associated with traditional procedures, such as nerve trauma and elbow instability. By preserving the anatomical integrity of the medial epicondyle and enhancing nerve mobility, this approach represents a less invasive alternative to anterior transposition and medial epicondylectomy. Conclusions: The FAEF technique is a viable and effective surgical option for managing ulnar nerve instability in cubital tunnel syndrome. It offers a less invasive solution with excellent short-term outcomes, making it a promising addition to the surgical armamentarium for this condition. Further studies are warranted to evaluate long-term efficacy and broader applicability. Full article