Search Results (1,046)

This paper presents an electromechanical coupling model integrating an equivalent magnetic network (EMN) model of a dual three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor (DTP-PMSM) with the dynamic model of a helical planetary gear transmission system. Using this model, this study analyzes the dynamic characteristics of an electric drive system, specifically motor phase current, electromagnetic torque, and gear meshing force, under self-fault-tolerant control strategies. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the self-fault-tolerant control strategy enables rapid fault tolerance during open-phase faults, significantly reducing system fault recovery time. Meanwhile, compared to the open-phase faults conditions, the self-fault-tolerant control effectively suppresses most harmonic components within the system; only the second harmonic amplitude of the electromagnetic torque exhibited an increase. This harmonic disturbance propagates to the gear system through electromechanical coupling, synchronously amplifying the second harmonic amplitude in the gear system’s vibration response. This study demonstrates that self-fault-tolerant control strategies significantly enhance the dynamic response performance of the electric drive system under open-phase faults conditions. Furthermore, this study also investigates the electromechanical coupling mechanism through which harmonics generated by this strategy affect the gear system’s dynamic response, providing theoretical support for co-optimization electromechanical coupling design and fault-tolerant control in high-reliability electric drive transmission systems. Full article

Concurrent cognitive tasks, such as avoiding visual, auditory, chemical, and electrical hazards, and concurrent motor tasks, such as load carriage, are prevalent in ergonomic settings. Trips are extremely common in the workplace, leading to fatal and non-fatal fall-related injuries. Intrinsic factors, such as attention, fatigue, and anticipation, as well as extrinsic factors, including tasks at hand, affect trip recovery responses. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the ankle joint kinematics in unexpected and expected trip responses during single-tasking (ST), dual-tasking (DT), and triple-tasking (TT), before and after a physically fatiguing protocol among young, healthy adults. Methods: Twenty volunteers’ (10 females, one left leg dominant, age 20.35 ± 1.04 years, height 174.83 ± 9.03 cm, mass 73.88 ± 15.55 kg) ankle joint kinematics were assessed using 3D motion capture system during unperturbed gait (NG), unexpected trip (UT), and expected trip (ET), during single-tasking (ST), cognitive dual-tasking (CDT), motor dual-tasking (MDT), and triple-tasking (TT), under both PRE and POST fatigue conditions. Results: Greater dorsiflexion angles were observed during UT compared to NG, MDT compared to ST, and TT compared to ST. Significantly greater plantar flexion angles were observed during ET compared to NG and during POST compared to PRE. Conclusions: Greater dorsiflexion angles during dual- and triple-tasking suggest that divided attention affects trip recovery. Greater plantar flexion angles following fatigue are likely an anticipatory mechanism due to altered muscle activity and increased postural control demands. Full article

Background: Peripheral nerve injuries, especially involving the facial nerve, present unique reconstructive challenges due to their complex functional demands and limited regenerative potential. While autografts remain the gold standard, their drawbacks—such as donor-site morbidity and limited availability—have driven interest in processed nerve allografts. Acellular grafts, in particular, offer promising off-the-shelf alternatives without the need for immunosuppression. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of the literature (1990–2023), identifying 55 peer-reviewed studies via PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. The studies included clinical and preclinical work on motor nerve regeneration using processed nerve allografts, with particular attention to outcomes in facial nerve repair. Two independent reviewers conducted abstract screening, full-text review, and data extraction. Results: Processed nerve allografts show encouraging motor recovery in gaps under 50 mm, with recovery rates of up to 85% reported. Outcomes decrease significantly in longer gaps (>50–60 mm) and in complex cases, including facial nerve repairs, where evidence remains sparse and largely extrapolated from broader motor nerve data. Registry data (e.g., RANGER) support their use but are limited by heterogeneity and lack of randomization. Conclusions: Processed nerve allografts represent a viable alternative to autografts in selected cases—especially short to mid-length motor nerve defects. However, their role in facial nerve reconstruction remains insufficiently studied. Further trials are needed to address specific anatomical and functional challenges in this subgroup and to clarify long-gap efficacy. Full article

Background: Severe damage to one side of the brain often leads to adverse consequences and can also cause widespread changes throughout the brain, especially in the contralateral area. Studying molecular changes in the contralateral cerebral hemisphere, especially with regard to genetic regulation, can help discover potential treatment strategies to promote recovery after severe brain trauma on one side. Methods: In our study, the right motor cortex was surgically removed to simulate severe unilateral brain injury, and changes in glial cells and synaptic structure in the contralateral cortex were subsequently assessed through immunohistological, morphological, and Western blot analyses. We conducted transcriptomic studies to explore changes in gene expression levels associated with the inflammatory response. Results: Seven days after corticotomy, levels of reactive astrocytes and hypertrophic microglia increased significantly in the experimental group, while synapsin-1 and PSD-95 levels in the contralateral motor cortex increased. These molecular changes are associated with structural changes, including destruction of dendritic structures and the encapsulation of astrocytes by synapses. Genome-wide transcriptome analysis showed a significant increase in gene pathways involved in inflammatory responses, synaptic activity, and nerve fiber regeneration in the contralateral cortex after corticorectomy. Key transcription factors such as NF-κB1, Rela, STAT3 and Jun were identified as potential regulators of these contralateral changes. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) confirmed that the mRNA expression levels of Cacna1c, Tgfb1 and Slc2a1 genes related to STAT3, JUN, and NF-κB regulation significantly increased in the contralateral cortex of the experimental group. Conclusions: After unilateral brain damage occurs, changes in the contralateral cerebral hemisphere are closely related to processes involving inflammation and synaptic function. Full article

Kinesthetic motor imagery (KMI), the mental rehearsal of a motor task without its actual performance, constitutes one of the most common techniques used for brain–computer interface (BCI) control for movement-related tasks. The effect of neural injury on motor cortical activity during execution and imagery remains under investigation in terms of activations, processing of motor onset, and BCI control. The current work aims to conduct a post hoc investigation of the event-related potential (ERP)-based processing of KMI during BCI control of anthropomorphic robotic arms by spinal cord injury (SCI) patients and healthy control participants in a completed clinical trial. For this purpose, we analyzed 14-channel electroencephalography (EEG) data from 10 patients with cervical SCI and 8 healthy individuals, recorded through Emotiv EPOC BCI, as the participants attempted to move anthropomorphic robotic arms using KMI. EEG data were pre-processed by band-pass filtering (8–30 Hz) and independent component analysis (ICA). ERPs were calculated at the sensor space, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine potential differences between groups. Our results showed no statistically significant differences between SCI patients and healthy control groups regarding mean amplitude and latency (p < 0.05) across the recorded channels at various time points during stimulus presentation. Notably, no significant differences were observed in ERP components, except for the P200 component at the T8 channel. These findings suggest that brain circuits associated with motor planning and sensorimotor processes are not disrupted due to anatomical damage following SCI. The temporal dynamics of motor-related areas—particularly in channels like F3, FC5, and F7—indicate that essential motor imagery (MI) circuits remain functional. Limitations include the relatively small sample size that may hamper the generalization of our findings, the sensor-space analysis that restricts anatomical specificity and neurophysiological interpretations, and the use of a low-density EEG headset, lacking coverage over key motor regions. Non-invasive EEG-based BCI systems for motor rehabilitation in SCI patients could effectively leverage intact neural circuits to promote neuroplasticity and facilitate motor recovery. Future work should include validation against larger, longitudinal, high-density, source-space EEG datasets. Full article

This paper presents an advanced energy management system (EMS) for optimizing power distribution in a battery/ultracapacitor (UC) hybrid energy storage system (HESS) for electric vehicles (EVs). The proposed EMS accounts for all energy flow scenarios within a practical driving cycle. A regenerative braking control strategy is developed to maximize kinetic energy recovery using an induction motor, efficiently distributing the recovered energy between the UC and battery. Additionally, a power flow management approach is introduced for both motoring (discharge) and braking (charge) operations via bidirectional buck–boost DC-DC converters. In discharge mode, an optimal distribution factor is dynamically adjusted to balance power delivery between the battery and UC, maximizing efficiency. During charging, a DC link voltage control mechanism prioritizes UC charging over the battery, reducing stress and enhancing energy recovery efficiency. The proposed EMS is validated through simulations and experiments, demonstrating significant improvements in vehicle acceleration, energy efficiency, and battery lifespan. Full article

Background: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has emerged as a promising neuromodulatory tool for language rehabilitation in chronic aphasia. However, the effects of bi-hemispheric, multisite stimulation remain largely unexplored, especially in people with chronic and treatment-resistant language impairments. The goal of this study is to look at the effects on behavior and brain activity of an individualized language training program that combines bi-hemispheric multisite anodal tDCS with personalized language training for Albert, a patient with long-standing, treatment-resistant non-fluent aphasia. Methods: Albert, a right-handed retired physician, had transcortical motor aphasia (TCMA) subsequent to a left-hemispheric ischemic stroke occurring more than six years before the operation. Even after years of traditional treatment, his expressive and receptive language deficits remained severe and persistent despite multiple rounds of traditional therapy. He had 15 sessions of bi-hemispheric multisite anodal tDCS aimed at bilateral dorsal language streams, administered simultaneously with language training customized to address his particular phonological and syntactic deficiencies. Psycholinguistic evaluations were performed at baseline, immediately following the intervention, and at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months post-intervention. Resting-state fMRI was conducted at baseline and following the intervention to evaluate alterations in functional connectivity (FC). Results: We noted statistically significant enhancements in auditory sentence comprehension and oral reading, particularly at the 1- and 3-month follow-ups. Neuroimaging showed decreased functional connectivity (FC) in the left inferior frontal and precentral regions (dorsal stream) and in maladaptive right superior temporal regions, alongside increased FC in left superior temporal areas (ventral stream). This pattern suggests that language networks may be reorganizing in a more efficient way. There was no significant improvement in phonological processing, which may indicate reduced connectivity in the left inferior frontal areas. Conclusions: This case underscores the potential of combining individualized, network-targeted language training with bi-hemispheric multisite tDCS to enhance recovery in chronic, treatment-resistant aphasia. The convergence of behavioral gains and neuroplasticity highlights the importance of precision neuromodulation approaches. However, findings are preliminary and warrant further validation through controlled studies to establish broader efficacy and sustainability of outcomes. Full article

Objectives: To synthesize evidence on structural and functional neuroplasticity in patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and its clinical implications. Methods: Adhering to the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses, a literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane CENTRAL (2018–2025) using specific keyword combinations, screening the results based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Among the 27 included studies were the following: (1) sensory cortex reorganization with compensatory visual dependence (5 EEG/fMRI studies); (2) reduced motor cortex efficiency evidenced by elevated AMT (TMS, 8 studies) and decreased γ-CMC (EEG, 3 studies); (3) progressive corticospinal tract degeneration (increased radial diffusivity correlating with postoperative duration); (4) enhanced sensory-visual integration correlated with functional recovery. Conclusions: This review provides a novel synthesis of evidence from transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), electroencephalography (EEG), functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies. It delineates characteristic patterns of post-ACLR structural and functional neural reorganization. Targeting visual–cognitive integration and corticospinal facilitation may optimize rehabilitation. Full article

Functional recovery after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is hindered by progressive neurodegeneration resulting from neuroinflammation and other secondary injury processes. Dexamethasone (DX), a synthetic glucocorticoid, has been shown to reduce inflammation, but its systemic administration can cause a myriad of other medical issues. We aim to provide a local, sustained treatment of DX for TBI. Previously, we demonstrated that PEG-bis-AA/HA-DXM hydrogels composed of polyethyleneglycol-bis-(acryloyloxy acetate) (PEG-bis-AA) and dexamethasone-conjugated hyaluronic acid (HA-DXM) reduced secondary injury and improved motor functional recovery at 7 days post-injury (DPI) in a rat moderate controlled cortical impact (CCI) TBI model. In this study, we evaluated the effect of PEG-bis-AA/HA-DXM hydrogel on cognitive function and secondary injury at 14 DPI. Immediately after injury, hydrogel disks were placed on the surface of the injured cortex. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Morris Water Maze test, and secondary injury was evaluated by histological analysis. The hydrogel treatment group demonstrated significantly shorter latency to target, decreased distance to find the hidden target, increased number of target crossings, increased number of entries to the platform zone, and decreased latency to first entry of target zone compared to untreated TBI rats for probe test. We also observed reduced lesion volume, inflammatory response, and apoptosis in the hydrogel treatment group compared to the untreated TBI group. Full article

Rapid screening of foodborne pathogens is critical for food safety, yet current detection techniques often suffer from low efficiency and complexity. In this study, we developed a sliding microfluidic colorimetric biosensor for the fast, sensitive, and multiplex detection of Salmonella. First, the target bacteria were specifically captured by antibody-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles in the microfluidic chip, forming magnetic bead–bacteria complexes. Then, through motor-assisted sliding of the chip, manganese dioxide (MnO₂) nanoflowers conjugated with secondary antibodies were introduced to bind the captured bacteria, generating a dual-antibody sandwich structure. Finally, a second sliding step brought the complexes into contact with a chromogenic substrate, where the MnO₂ nanoflowers catalyzed a colorimetric reaction, and the resulting signal was used to quantify the Salmonella concentration. Under optimized conditions, the biosensor achieved a detection limit of 10 CFU/mL within 20 min. In spiked pork samples, the average recovery rate of Salmonella ranged from 94.9% to 125.4%, with a coefficient of variation between 4.0% and 6.8%. By integrating mixing, separation, washing, catalysis, and detection into a single chip, this microfluidic biosensor offers a user-friendly, time-efficient, and highly sensitive platform, showing great potential for the on-site detection of foodborne pathogens. Full article

Brain–computer interface (BCI) technology holds promise for improving motor rehabilitation in stroke patients. This review explores the immediate and long-term effects of BCI training, shedding light on the potential benefits and challenges. Clinical studies have demonstrated that BCIs yield significant immediate improvements in motor functions following stroke. Patients can engage in BCI training safely, making it a viable option for rehabilitation. Evidence from single-group studies consistently supports the effectiveness of BCIs in enhancing patients’ performance. Despite these promising findings, the evidence regarding long-term effects remains less robust. Further studies are needed to determine whether BCI-induced changes are permanent or only last for short durations. While evaluating the outcomes of BCI, one must consider that different BCI training protocols may influence functional recovery. The characteristics of some of the paradigms that we discuss are motor imagery-based BCIs, movement-attempt-based BCIs, and brain-rhythm-based BCIs. Finally, we examine studies suggesting that integrating BCIs with other devices, such as those used for functional electrical stimulation, has the potential to enhance recovery outcomes. We conclude that, while BCIs offer immediate benefits for stroke rehabilitation, addressing long-term effects and optimizing clinical implementation remain critical areas for further investigation. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Myxoid liposarcoma (MLS) is a malignant soft tissue tumor that often presents as a painless, slow-growing mass and is known for its atypical extrapulmonary metastatic pattern. Although sciatic nerve involvement is rare, when present, it usually causes neurologic symptoms. In this case, a large MLS silently expanded and completely encased the sciatic nerve without causing deficits, highlighting the importance of early imaging, multidisciplinary planning, and individualized surgical strategy in managing complex soft tissue sarcomas. Case Presentation: This case report describes a 67-year-old male with a 30 cm encapsulated myxoid liposarcoma of the posterior left thigh. The tumor had grown insidiously over one year and completely encased the sciatic nerve without causing pain, paresthesia, or motor impairment. Selective embolization was performed preoperatively to minimize blood loss. A posteromedial surgical approach allowed for en bloc resection with negative margins and preservation of sciatic nerve integrity. Histopathology confirmed a myxoid liposarcoma composed primarily of spindle-shaped tumor cells. The patient experienced no postoperative complications or neurologic deficits. At the two-year follow-up, he remains disease-free with full functional recovery. Conclusions: This case illustrates the potential for large, asymptomatic myxoid liposarcomas to encase critical neurovascular structures without infiltration. Preoperative embolization as part of a multidisciplinary plan was key to achieving safe resection and excellent functional outcomes. Full article

This study presents the design and validation of an integrated fire safety system that leverages edge AI, hybrid sensing, and precision suppression to overcome the latency and collateral limitations of conventional smoke detection and sprinkler systems. The proposed platform features a dual-mode sensor array for early fire recognition, motorized ventilation units for rapid smoke extraction, and a 360° directional nozzle for targeted agent discharge using a residue-free clean extinguishing agent. Experimental trials demonstrated an average fire detection time of 5.8 s and complete flame suppression within 13.2 s, with 90% smoke clearance achieved in under 95 s. No false positives were recorded during non-fire simulations, and the system remained fully functional under simulated cloud communication failure, confirming its edge-resilient architecture. A probabilistic risk analysis based on ISO 31000 and NFPA 551 frameworks showed risk reductions of 75.6% in life safety, 58.0% in property damage, and 67.1% in business disruption. The system achieved a composite risk reduction of approximately 73%, shifting the operational risk level into the ALARP region. These findings demonstrate the system’s capacity to provide proactive, energy-efficient, and spatially targeted fire response suitable for high-value infrastructure. The modular design and SmartThings Edge integration further support scalable deployment and real-time system intelligence, establishing a strong foundation for future adaptive fire protection frameworks. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nerve injuries cause functional loss and psychosocial issues due to prolonged rehabilitation. Recently, 3D-modeled nerve conduits have been used to aid in surgical planning. This study investigated the impact of 3D-bioprinted PLA, chitosan, alginate, and collagen conduits on nerve regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve crush injury model. Methods: This study, conducted at Kütahya University of Health Sciences, involves 50 rats were divided into four groups: (1) sham-operated controls, (2) sciatic nerve injury without treatment, (3) injury treated with a PLA conduit, and (4) injury treated with 3D-printed tubes composed of chitosan and alginate. The procedures were performed, blood was collected, and the rats were sacrificed after two months. Weekly checks for infection, scar healing, and motor responses were performed. Results: Rats with nerve conduits showed less macroscopic scarring. Weekly assessments of motor nerve recovery showed no movement restrictions in limbs treated with PLA conduits, graft conduits, or conduits bridging retracted nerve stumps, based on responses to stimulus checks. An infection developed in the sciatic nerve and surrounding muscle tissue of one rat with a bio-graft conduit, prompting histopathological examination to investigate its cause. Conclusions: This proof-of-principle study demonstrates the feasibility of using 3D-printed biocompatible nerve conduits for peripheral nerve repair, providing a basis for future, more comprehensive investigations. Full article

Skeletal muscle atrophy is a debilitating condition characterized by the loss of muscle mass and function. It is commonly associated with aging, chronic diseases, disuse, and prolonged glucocorticoid therapy. Oxidative stress and catabolic signaling pathways play significant roles in the progression of muscle degradation. Despite its clinical relevance, few effective therapeutic options are currently available. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of an ethanolic extract of Glycine Semen Preparata (GSP), i.e., fermented black soybeans, using in vitro and in vivo models of dexamethasone (Dexa)-induced muscle atrophy. In C2C12 myoblasts and myotubes, GSP significantly attenuated both oxidative stress-induced and Dexa-induced damages by reducing reactive oxygen species levels and by suppressing the expression of the muscle-specific E3 ubiquitin ligases MuRF1 and Atrogin-1. Moreover, GSP upregulated key genes involved in muscle regeneration (Myod1 and Myog) and mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC1α), indicating its dual role in muscle protection and regeneration. Oral administration of GSP to mice with Dexa-induced muscle atrophy resulted in improved muscle fiber integrity, increased proportion of large cross-sectional area fibers, and partial recovery of motor function. Isoflavone aglycones, such as daidzein and genistein, were identified as active compounds that contribute to the beneficial effects of GSP through antioxidant activity and gene promoter enhancement. Thus, GSP is a promising nutraceutical that prevents or mitigates muscle atrophy by targeting oxidative stress and promoting myogenesis and mitochondrial function. Further studies are warranted to standardize the bioactive components and explore their clinical applications. Full article