Search Results (19,322)

This research aimed to explore the influence of climate factors, especially in the three weeks prior to harvest, on the reaction of key phytonutrients in industrial tomatoes used for juice thermal processing and their stability. The cultivation was performed in two areas with differing climatic conditions. In the region with higher temperatures and rainfall, the levels and stability of carotenoids were lower compared to the area characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall during both the growth and harvest phases of the tomatoes. The extraction of cold-break (CBE) tomatoes from relatively cool and wet environments resulted in a loss of total carotenoids, particularly lycopene, amounting to 66% and 58% of the initial raw tomato content in 2018 and 2019, respectively, while a markedly reduced loss of 10% was observed after the CBE of tomatoes from the warmer and drier region in both years (36% and 35%). In contrast, hot-break extraction (HBE) demonstrated a higher stability of lycopene compared to CBE, with losses of 43% and 53% in 2018 and 2019, respectively. Additionally, the stability of lycopene in HBE did not show significant differences between the cultivation sites. Climatic conditions influenced the accumulation of geometrical isomers and oxidized forms of lycopene and β-carotene, especially in tomatoes grown in areas with higher rainfall and lower temperatures. A similar trend in response was noted for β-carotene, lutein, phytoene, and phytofluene, as well as total and individual tocopherols. Regarding vitamin C, the environmental factors had no meaningful impact on the vitamin content in tomato fruits; however, its stability during processing, especially with hot-break extraction, was considerably influenced by the climatic conditions of the cultivation site, with p values ranging from <0.01 to <0.001 across different products in various years. The content and stability of phytonutrients in pomace, the by-product from tomato juice processing, were also assessed. In conclusion, tomato fruits and processed products that boast high phytonutrient levels and stability during thermal processing can be achieved through cultivation in conditions of low rainfall and relatively high temperatures, particularly in the three weeks leading up to harvest. Full article

Integrating emotional intelligence into AI systems is essential for developing empathetic chatbots, yet deploying fully empathetic models is often constrained by business, ethical, and computational factors. We propose an innovative solution: a dedicated empathy rephrasing layer that operates downstream of a chatbot’s initial response. This layer leverages large language models (LLMs) to infuse empathy into the chatbot’s output without altering its core meaning, thereby enhancing emotional intelligence and user engagement. To implement this layer, we extend and validate the IDRE (Italian Dialogue for Empathetic Responses) dataset. We evaluated small- and medium-scale LLMs across three configurations: baseline models, models augmented via few-shot learning with IDRE exemplars, and models fine-tuned on IDRE. Performance was quantitatively assessed using the LLM-as-a-judge paradigm, leveraging custom metrics. These results were further validated through an independent human evaluation and supported by established NLP similarity metrics, ensuring a robust triangulation of findings. Results confirm that both few-shot prompting and fine-tuning with IDRE significantly enhance the models’ capacity for empathetic language generation. Applications include empathetic AI in healthcare, such as virtual assistants for patient support, and demonstrate promising generalization to other domains. All datasets, prompts, fine-tuned models, and scripts are publicly available to ensure transparency and reproducibility. Full article

Sediment erosion under turbulent wave action is a highly dynamic process shaped by the interaction between wave properties and sediment characteristics. Despite extensive empirical research, the underlying mechanisms of wave-induced erosion remain insufficiently understood, particularly regarding the threshold energy required for particle mobilization and the factors governing displacement patterns. This study employed a custom-built wave flume and a 3D-printed sampler to examine sediment behavior under controlled wave conditions. Rounded glass beads, chosen to eliminate the influence of particle shape, were used as sediment analogs with a similar specific gravity to natural sand. Ten experiments were conducted to systematically assess the effects of particle size, particle number, input voltage (wave power), and water depth on sediment response. The results revealed that (1) only a fraction of particles were mobilized, with the remainder forming stable interlocking structures; (2) the number of displaced particles increased with particle size, particle count, and water depth; (3) a threshold wave power is required to initiate erosion, though buoyancy under shallow conditions reduces this threshold; and (4) wave steepness, rather than voltage or wave height alone, provided the strongest predictor of sediment displacement. These findings highlight the central role of wave steepness in erosion modeling and call for its integration into predictive frameworks. The study concludes with methodological limitations and proposes future research directions, including expanded soil types, large-scale flume testing, and advanced flow field measurements. Full article

Background: Women living with HIV (WLHIV) in low-income urban settings face multiple intersecting nutritional risks from food insecurity, poor dietary quality, and mental health problems. We evaluated the prevalence of household food insecurity and inadequate dietary diversity, examining their associations with depressive symptoms, antiretroviral therapy (ART)-related factors, and body mass index (BMI) among WLHIV attending routine ART clinics in Kinshasa, The Democratic Republic of Congo. This study addresses critical gaps in understanding the interplay between mental health and nutrition in the context of HIV care, with significant implications for improving health outcomes among vulnerable populations. Methods: In this clinic-based cross-sectional study (February–April 2024), we enrolled 571 women on ART in Masina 2, Kinshasa. Household food insecurity was measured using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), dietary diversity was assessed using the Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD_W; inadequate ≤ 5 food groups in 24 h), and probable depression was assessed using the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-10 (HSCL-10), which is a validated screening tool. We obtained baseline BMIs from clinic records at ART induction, which we measured again upon survey completion. We used analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to model follow-up BMI, adjusting for baseline values, age, ART duration, self-reported adherence, household food insecurity, dietary diversity, and probable depression. Sensitivity analyses included change-score and mixed-effects models. Results: The prevalence of any household food insecurity was high (75%; 95% CI:71.5–78.6), with 57.6% (95% CI:53.5–61.6) of the participants experiencing inadequate dietary diversity (MDD_W < 5). Furthermore, forty-two per cent (95% CI:38.4–46.5) experienced depressive symptoms and sixty-eight percent (95% CI: 64.4–72.0) adhered to antiretroviral therapy (ART). The mean MDD_W was 4.3, with a low consumption rate of animal-source foods. Baseline BMI was associated with follow-up values (adjusted β_{unstandardized}, 0.48 kg/m² per 1 kg/m² baseline, 95% CI 0.38–0.59; p < 0.001). Probable depression was independently associated with a lower follow-up BMI (adjusted β_{unstandardized}, −0.99 kg/m²; 95% CI −1.72 to −0.26; p = 0.008). Time since ART initiation showed a slight positive association with BMI (adjusted β_{unstandardized}, 0.10 kg/m² per year). Self-reported ART adherence, household food insecurity, and dietary diversity were not independently associated with follow-up BMI in fully adjusted models. The interaction between age and probable depression did not suggest heterogeneity between age groups (p = 0.503). Conclusions: In our cohort, food insecurity and poor dietary diversity were widespread but did not significantly correlate with BMI, while probable depression, a potentially modifiable factor, was independently associated with lower BMI after accounting for baseline nutritional status. These findings highlight the need for HIV care programs integrating mental health screening and services with nutrition-sensitive interventions to support recovery and long-term health among WLHIV. Full article

The water retention and permeability characteristics of loess are core factors governing geological disaster prevention and engineering stability in the loess regions of northwest China. This study focuses on Yangling loess, systematically conducting soil water characteristic curve (SWCC) measurements and saturated permeability tests under different initial compaction degrees and water contents using a pressure plate apparatus and a TST-55 permeameter. By combining fitting analyses of the Gardner, Fredlund–Xing, and Van Genuchten SWCC models, the study reveals the influence mechanism of initial conditions on the water retention properties of Yangling loess. Furthermore, the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity of loess was predicted using the Van Genuchten–Mualem model. Finally, a quantitative relationship model between hydraulic conductivity and multiple factors (initial compaction degree, water content, and matric suction) was constructed using the response surface methodology. The results indicate the following: (1) A higher initial compaction degree and water content lead to a higher air entry value of loess, resulting in stronger water retention capacity. Among the three models, the Van Genuchten model exhibits the optimal fitting effect for the SWCC of Yangling loess. Its parameter a (related to the air entry value) decreases significantly with increasing compaction degree, while parameter n (pore size distribution index) increases linearly. The SWCC model, considering compaction degree, established based on these findings, can accurately predict the water retention characteristics in the high suction range (0~1200 kPa). This model’s precision in the high-suction segment is particularly valuable, as it addresses a critical range for engineering applications where soil behavior transitions from near-saturated to highly unsaturated states. (2) When loess transitions from a saturated to an unsaturated state, the hydraulic conductivity decreases up to 10⁴ times. Both increased initial compaction degree and water content lead to a significant reduction in hydraulic conductivity. This drastic reduction highlights the sensitivity of loess permeability to saturation changes, which is attributed to the rapid reduction in interconnected pore channels as soil suction increases and pore spaces are filled or compressed under higher compaction. (3) The response surface prediction model quantitatively reveals the influence weights of various factors on hydraulic conductivity in the order of matric suction > initial compaction degree > initial water content. The model exhibits a high coefficient of determination (R² = 0.9861), enabling rapid and accurate prediction of the hydraulic conductivity of Yangling loess. This high precision confirms that the model effectively captures the complex interactions between the factors, providing a reliable tool for practical engineering calculations. This study provides a new model and experimental basis for the accurate prediction of unsaturated loess hydraulic properties. The proposed SWCC model, considering compaction degree and the response surface model for hydraulic conductivity, offers practical tools for engineers and researchers, facilitating more precise design and risk assessment in collapsible loess areas. Full article

Background and Objectives: Erlotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), is an established therapy for patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that chronic stress, mediated through β-adrenergic signaling, promotes tumor progression, angiogenesis, and therapy resistance. Furthermore, interactions between β-adrenergic signaling and EGFR pathways have been hypothesized to negatively influence treatment responses. Based on this rationale, we investigated whether concomitant beta-blocker use may improve survival outcomes in EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients treated with erlotinib. Materials and Methods: This retrospective analysis included 103 patients with metastatic EGFR-mutant NSCLC who received erlotinib. Patients were classified according to concurrent beta-blocker use, defined as continuous therapy for at least six months prior to erlotinib initiation, prescribed for cardiovascular indications. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared between beta-blocker users and non-users. Results: Patients receiving erlotinib with concomitant beta-blocker therapy achieved a median PFS (mPFS) of 21.4 months (95% CI, 13.1–29.7), compared with 9.7 months (95% CI, 6.7–12.7) in non-users (p = 0.003). Median OS (mOS) was 32.4 months (95% CI, 14.8–50.0) in the beta-blocker group versus 19.9 months (95% CI, 14.8–25.0) in the non-beta-blocker group (p = 0.010). Multivariate Cox regression confirmed beta-blocker use as an independent prognostic factor for both PFS (p = 0.004) and OS (p = 0.014). Conclusions: Concomitant beta-blocker use was associated with significantly prolonged survival in patients with EGFR-mutant metastatic NSCLC receiving erlotinib. These findings support the hypothesis that β-adrenergic inhibition enhances the efficacy of EGFR-targeted therapy. Prospective studies are warranted to validate these results and to further elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms. Full article

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are progressive, life-threatening vascular disorders characterized by focal dilation of the abdominal aorta due to chronic weakening of the arterial wall. The condition often remains asymptomatic until rupture, which carries mortality rates exceeding 70–85%. Among the various etiological theories of AAA development, degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) has emerged as the most widely accepted paradigm, with the breakdown of elastin representing a central and irreversible hallmark event. Elastin, a highly cross-linked and durable structural protein, provides elasticity and recoil to the aortic wall. In human AAA specimens, reduced elastin content, impaired cross-linking, and extensive fiber fragmentation are consistently observed, while experimental studies across multiple animal models confirm that elastin degradation directly correlates with aneurysm initiation, expansion, and rupture risk. Elastin loss is driven by a complex interplay of proteolytic enzymes coupled with inflammatory cell infiltration and oxidative stress. Furthermore, elastin-derived peptides perpetuate immune cell recruitment and matrix degradation, creating a vicious cycle of wall injury. Genetic and epigenetic factors, including variants in ECM regulators and dysregulation of non-coding RNAs, further modulate elastin homeostasis in AAA pathobiology. Clinically, biomarkers of elastin turnover and elastin-targeted molecular imaging techniques are emerging as tools for risk stratification. Therapeutically, novel strategies aimed at stabilizing elastin fibers, enhancing cross-linking, or delivering drugs directly to sites of elastin damage have shown promise in preclinical models and early translational studies. In parallel, regenerative approaches employing stem cells, exosomes, and bioengineered elastin scaffolds are under development to restore structural integrity. Collectively, these advances underscore the pivotal roles of elastin not only as a structural determinant of aneurysm development but also as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. This review summarizes and integrates recent discoveries on elastin biology in AAA, with a particular emphasis on molecular mechanisms of elastin degradation and the translational potential of elastin-centered interventions for the prevention and treatment of AAA. Full article

Multi-drone operations face significant efficiency challenges when launch pad locations are predetermined without optimization, leading to suboptimal route configurations and increased travel distances. This research addresses launch pad positioning as a continuous planar location-routing problem (PLRP), developing a genetic algorithm framework integrated with multiple Traveling Salesman Problem (mTSP) solvers to optimize launch pad coordinates within operational areas. The methodology was evaluated through extensive experimentation involving over 17 million test executions across varying problem complexities and compared against brute-force optimization, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and simulated annealing (SA) approaches. The results demonstrate that the genetic algorithm achieves 97–100% solution accuracy relative to exhaustive search methods while reducing computational requirements by four orders of magnitude, requiring an average of 527 iterations compared to 30,000 for PSO and 1000 for SA. Smart initialization strategies and adaptive termination criteria provide additional performance enhancements, reducing computational effort by 94% while maintaining 98.8% solution quality. Statistical validation confirms systematic improvements across all tested scenarios. This research establishes a validated methodological framework for continuous launch pad optimization in UAV operations, providing practical insights for real-world applications where both solution quality and computational efficiency are critical operational factors while acknowledging the simplified energy model limitations that warrant future research into more complex operational dynamics. Full article

(Background) Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular malignancy in childhood, primarily caused by mutations in the RB1 gene. However, increasing evidence highlights the significant role of epigenetic mechanisms, particularly DNA methylation and histone acetylation, in tumor initiation and progression. This review aims to summarize and critically assess recent findings on how DNA methylation and histone acetylation contribute to the pathogenesis of retinoblastoma, and to explore their potential role as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. (Methods) We searched the databases PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies were English-language, open-access articles published within the last ten years, including cohort studies, research articles, and case reports. After rigorous screening, 18 studies were included in the final analysis. (Results) Aberrant DNA methylation was found to inactivate tumor suppressor genes (RB1, RASSF1A, p16INK4A, MGMT) and promote oncogenesis through hypermethylation of regulatory elements. Similarly, histone acetylation’s dysregulation contributed to chromatin remodeling and overexpression of oncogenic factors such as SYK, GALNT8, and lincRNA-ROR. Elevated histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity was also linked to tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Epigenetic inhibitors targeting these pathways demonstrated promising therapeutic potential. (Conclusions) DNA methylation and histone acetylation play a crucial role in the epigenetic regulation of genes implicated in retinoblastoma. Their dysregulation promotes tumorigenesis, and targeting these mechanisms represents a promising avenue for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in pediatric oncology. Full article

To address the issues of high stalk breakage rate and the mismatch between extraction force and operational speed in current horizontal shaft counter-rolling cotton stalk pullers, this study presents a novel clamping mechanism. The mechanism enables precise adjustment of the rollers’ rotational speed, inter-roller gap, and surface topography. The objective is to systematically investigate the effects of these key parameters on the peak extraction force and its timing during the stalk pulling process. Initially, pre-compressed cotton stalks were employed as test specimens. Their tensile properties post-compression were investigated by simulating the extraction forces using a universal testing machine. Subsequently, the structural design of the critical components for the test rig was created based on these experimental findings. Theoretical analysis identified the surface texture of the clamping rollers, their rotational speed, and the clamping gap as the primary experimental factors. The effects of these factors on the peak extraction force and its timing were analyzed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The results indicated that the optimal combination—striped surface texture for both rollers, a speed of 220 rpm, and a zero gap—yielded a time to peak force of 0.05 s and a peak force of 710.77 N, which is significantly below the measured tensile strength limit of 994.60 N for compressed stalks. This indicates that the designed clamping device for the horizontal shaft counter-rolling cotton stalk extraction machine achieves faster extraction speed while ensuring stalk integrity, and the research results can provide theoretical foundation and design guidance for the development of horizontal shaft counter-rolling cotton stalk extraction machinery. Full article

Research demonstrates a positive correlation between experiencing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and negative outcomes in emerging adulthood. However, relatively little research has examined the potential effects of ACEs on a common experience in emerging adulthood: dating and establishing romantic relationships. This is especially true for troubled relationships. We extend this literature by examining a potential mechanism that might moderate the association between ACEs and intimate partner violence (IPV): family social capital. A large body of research establishes family social capital as a protective factor for positive child and youth development. We expand this research by examining how studying family systems might inform efforts to prevent IPV. However, the information, obligations, norms, and connections that make up family social capital may have more tenuous relationships with intimate partner violence, especially for people who have experienced ACEs. We developed a model to analyze this interaction using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health). Add Health is a nationally representative study from the United States that initially sampled 20,745 adolescents in Wave 1. We use demographic and data from Wave 1 and IPV measures from Wave 3 data when respondents are in emerging adulthood (ages 18–26) (n = 15,701). We examine whether family social capital is associated with exposure to IPV, as well as whether family social capital can moderate the relationship between experiencing ACEs and exposure to IPV. Our results suggest some protective effects of family social capital on the emergence of IPV for both maternal and paternal social capital, but that family social capital does not fully moderate the damaging effects of ACEs. 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

Chronic insomnia is a prevalent and disabling sleep disorder with growing evidence linking it to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity. Stroke, a leading cause of mortality and a long-term disability worldwide, may be influenced by sleep disturbances through multiple physiological mechanisms. While traditional risk factors such as hypertension, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and sedentary lifestyle remain dominant drivers of stroke burden, accumulating evidence suggests that sleep disturbances, particularly chronic insomnia, may act as both independent risk factors for incident stroke and as outcomes of cerebrovascular injury. Chronic insomnia, affecting approximately 10% of the global population, is characterized by persistent difficulties with sleep initiation, maintenance, or quality, accompanied by daytime dysfunction. Beyond its impact on quality of life and mental health, insomnia has been linked to cardiometabolic dysregulation, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction. Importantly, sleep disturbances after stroke can impair recovery and functional outcomes, underscoring a bidirectional relationship between stroke and sleep. Several recent reviews have examined the connection between insomnia and stroke. Our review differs by focusing specifically on (1) the stroke-specific epidemiological evidence for chronic insomnia as a risk factor, (2) the bidirectional interplay between insomnia and post-stroke sleep disturbances, and (3) the role of emerging technologies in monitoring and prognosis. By addressing these gaps, we aim to refine the current understanding and highlight priorities for future research and clinical translation. Full article

Background: Critical illness-related corticosteroid insufficiency (CIRCI) diagnosis remains controversial, largely due to the complex pathophysiology of sepsis, which challenges the reliability of conventional biochemical testing. Recent international guidelines have moved away from strict cortisol threshold-based diagnostic criteria for adrenal insufficiency, relying more on clinical evaluation. However, the applicability and diagnostic accuracy of these revised approaches in non-Western populations remain unexplored. Objective: This study aimed to assessthe diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of baseline total cortisol levels for guiding corticosteroid therapy in a cohort of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with septic shock in a tertiary care hospital in the United Arab Emirates. Methods: A ten-year retrospective observational study (2012–2022) of intensive care patients with septic shock was conducted. CIRCI was operationally defined by a documented clinical decision to administer hydrocortisone >24 h. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis assessed diagnostic performance; Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) evaluated clinical utility of performed cortisol levels. Results: Among 43 patients in the ICU with septic shock, 13 (30.2%) received hydrocortisone (CIRCI group). Mean cortisol was found to be paradoxically higher in the CIRCI group (1341.6 ± 1112.5 vs. 976.0 ± 798.7 nmol/L, p = 0.24). ROC analysis demonstrated poor diagnostic performance (AUC 0.61, 95% CI: 0.44–0.78). International guideline cutoff of <276 nmol/L showed 0% sensitivity in identifying CIRCI. Multiple thresholds yielded negative Youden indices, indicating performance of cortisol levels being worse than a random chance. DCA demonstrated zero net benefit for cortisol-guided therapy across all threshold probabilities when compared to clincial practice strategies. Only clinical factors predicted corticosteroid initiation: high vasopressor requirements (OR 3.2, 95% CI: 1.1–9.4, p = 0.03) and persistent shock >48 h (OR 2.8, 95% CI: 1.0–7.9, p = 0.05). Cortisol level had no predictive value (OR 1.0, 95% CI: 0.9–1.0, p = 0.89). Conclusions: In this cohort, baseline total cortisol demonstrated poor diagnostic accuracy and lacked clinical utility for guiding corticosteroid therapy in patients with sepsis. Our findings reinforce the importance of clinical judgement over biochemical testing in identifying patients with septic shock requiring corticosteroid therapy, in line with the recent international guidelines. Full article

In rock blasting for engineering applications—such as quarrying and tunnel construction—blasting is often detonated in carefully timed sequences to optimize rock fragmentation. This study examines Model I crack propagation in tunnel blasting sections with empty holes using circular PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) samples containing pre-made initial cracks and empty holes. The distance between holes was varied from 10 mm to 30 mm. Using AUTODYN V18.0 numerical simulation software, how these holes affect crack initiation, propagation, and the surrounding stress field were analyzed. Key findings include the following: (a) Blasting stress waves diffract and reflect off empty hole edges, creating overlapping pressure zones between adjacent empty holes. Within a critical range of the empty hole distance, wider hole distance leads to slower stress wave propagation due to increased dispersion. (b) The empty holes weaken the stress concentration at crack tips, with greater distance further reducing peak strength. Proximal crack tips experience more pronounced stress field alterations than distal ones. (c) Holes hinder crack initiation, with the required stress intensity factor rising in near-linear proportion to hole separation distance. Full article