Search Results (490)

Cities around the world are facing growing challenges related to climate change, urban sprawl, infrastructure strain, and digital transformation. In response, smart and sustainable urban development has become a global focus, aiming to integrate technology and environmental stewardship to improve the quality of life. The smart and sustainable city concept is typically applied at the city scale; however, its impact is most tangible at the neighborhood level, where residents interact directly with infrastructure, services, and community spaces. A variety of global frameworks have been developed to assess sustainability and technological integration. However, these models often fall short in addressing localized needs, particularly in regions with distinct environmental and cultural contexts. In Saudi Arabia, Vision 2030 emphasizes livability, sustainability, and digital transformation, yet there remains a lack of tailored tools to evaluate smart and sustainable progress at the neighborhood scale. This study develops HayyScore, a localized evaluation framework and prototype digital platform developed to assess neighborhood performance across five core categories: (i) Environment and Urban Resilience, (ii) Smart Infrastructure and Governance, (iii) Mobility and Accessibility, (iv) Quality of Life and Social Inclusion, and (v) Economy and Innovation. The HayyScore platform operationalizes this framework through an interactive web-based tool that allows users to input data through structured forms, calculate scores, receive category-based and overall certification levels, and view results through visual dashboards. The methodology involved a comprehensive review of global frameworks, expert input to define localized indicators, and iterative prototyping of the platform using Python 3.13.5 and Streamlit 1.45.1. To demonstrate its practical application, the prototype was tested on two Saudi neighborhoods: King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM). Key platform features include automated scoring logic, category weighting, certification generation, dynamic performance charts, and a rankings page for comparing multiple neighborhoods. The platform is designed to be scalable, with the ability to add new indicators, support multilingual access, and integrate with real-time data systems in future iterations. Full article

We establish multiple novel upper estimates for the numerical radius associated with off-diagonal operator matrices defined on a complex Hilbert space $\mathfrak{H}$. The operators considered have a specific structure, with zero diagonal entries and anti-diagonal entries given by a bounded linear operator $\mathcal{C}$ and the adjoint of another, ${\mathcal{D}}^{★}$. The primary contribution is a set of inequalities that connect the square of the numerical radius to expressions involving the norms of these constituent operators. As applications, we specialize our main results to obtain refined inequalities for two significant cases: when $\mathcal{D}$ is the adjoint of $\mathcal{C}$, where $\mathcal{C}$ and $\mathcal{D}$ represent the real and imaginary components of one operator $\mathcal{T}$. Full article

The effectiveness of mixing ventilation for contaminant removal and maintaining indoor air quality remains an active topic of debate. In shared multi-person spaces, it is common for occupants to experience uneven exposure levels due to variations in system configuration and seating arrangements. Previous studies have primarily considered static occupancy schemes, leaving a gap in understanding how dynamic patterns of use interact with ventilation design. This study investigates the combined effects of system settings and occupancy patterns on ventilation effectiveness (VE), while also exploring whether lower ventilation rates can still sustain acceptable air quality. Validated Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models were developed to simulate multiple scenarios involving three ceiling heights, two inlet and exhaust configurations, and three occupancy patterns. Analysis of air quality at the breathing zone reveals that the spatial arrangement of ventilation inlets and exhausts substantially influences VE, with optimized layouts improved system effectiveness by approximately 20%. Seating arrangement was similarly important, with favorable positioning relative to inlets improving perceived air quality by up to 25%. In addition, modest increases in ceiling height reduced the ventilation rate needed to maintain equivalent air quality, suggesting opportunities for energy savings without compromising occupant health. Overall, this study demonstrates that the interaction between system configuration and occupancy has a stronger impact on ventilation performance. These findings underscore the importance of integrated design strategies that align ventilation layout with occupant distribution to achieve both efficiency and equity in indoor environments. Full article

This paper reports on a small-scale qualitative study, using philosophical inquiry in Key Stage 1 (5–7-year-old children). The study involved a one hour per week session of philosophical inquiry in one primary school, ‘Philosophy Club’, with eight children taking part for six weeks. Multiple methods were used, including researcher observations, creative methods such as children’s drawings, notes, models, and discussion, which are combined to make ‘mosaics’ of data. Data analysis focused on broad inquiry foci from across the data, and in this paper, these are reported with reference to children’s views on Philosophy Club as a space to think with their friends, build a community and changing perceptions of club members over the six-week period. Conclusions are drawn tentatively on the benefits of philosophical inquiry clubs for building community and friendship with younger children, particularly in the wake of COVID-19 and potential gaps in social experience in their early years, and how teacher education in the use of philosophical inquiry might support this community building. Full article

Obtaining accurate information on stratigraphic conditions and drilling status is necessary to ensure the safety of the drilling process and to guarantee the production of oil and gas. Sensing while drilling and intelligent monitoring technology, which employ multiple sensors and involve the use of intelligent algorithms, can be used to collect downhole information in situ to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient drilling and mining operations. These approaches are characterized by effective sensing and comprehensive utilization of drilling information through the integration of multi-sensor signals and intelligent algorithms, a core component of machine learning. The article summarizes the current research status of domestic and international sensing while drilling and intelligent monitoring technology using systematically collected relevant information. Specifically, first, the drilling-sensing methods used for in situ acquisition of downhole information, including fiber-optic sensing, electronic-nose sensing, drilling engineering-parameter sensing, drilling mud-parameter sensing, drilling acoustic logging, drilling electromagnetic wave logging, and drilling seismic logging, are described. Next, the basic composition and development direction of each sensing technology are analyzed. Subsequently, the application of intelligent monitoring technology based on machine learning in various aspects of drilling- and mining-status identification, including bit wear monitoring, stuck drill real-time monitoring, well surge real-time monitoring, and real-time monitoring of oil and gas output, is introduced. Finally, the potential applications of sensing while drilling and intelligent monitoring technology in deep-earth, deep-sea, and deep-space contexts are discussed, and the challenges, constraints, and development trends are summarized. Full article

Background: Odontogenic abscesses may significantly affect maternal health during pregnancy. Aim: This study analyzes three cases of pregnant patients with odontogenic infections, comparing them to a control group of non-pregnant women, and reviews recent literature. Materials and Methods: Between January 2020 and April 2025, 3 pregnant and 70 non-pregnant women with odontogenic abscesses were treated. Clinical presentation, pathogens, therapy, and outcomes were compared. Results: Severe sequelae, such as rapid abscess spread and systemic inflammation, were more frequent in pregnant women, though not statistically significant (p = 0.068). Pregnant patients also tended toward prolonged intubation (p = 0.194) and targeted antibiotic use (p = 0.133). Antibiotic selection was based on gestational age, with beta-lactams preferred. Surgical interventions were more extensive, often involving multiple neck spaces. Hospitalization was longer (≥4 days in most cases) due to maternal–fetal monitoring. Conclusions: Odontogenic abscesses in pregnancy require individualized management and gestation-adjusted antibiotic therapy. Full article

Osteoarthritis involves complex interactions between articular joint tissues and the immune system, which is implicated in molecular trafficking via barrier-function modulating cytokines. The current study aims to test effects of an acute spike in TNF-α or TGF-β on vascular barrier function at multiple length scales, from the heart to tissue compartments of the knee, and cellular inhabitants of those respective compartments, in a spontaneous guinea pig model of osteoarthritis. First we quantified the intensity of a fluorescent-tagged 70 kDa tracer, similar in size to albumin, the most prevalent transporter protein in the blood, in tissue compartments of bone (periosteum, marrow space, compact bone, and epiphyseal bone) and cartilage (superficial cartilage, calcified cartilage, and the interface between, i.e., the epiphyseal line), as well as at sites of tendon attachment to bone (entheses). We then examined tracer presence and intensity in the respective pericellular and extracellular matrix zones of bone and cartilage. Acute exposure to TGF-β reduced barrier function (increased permeability) at nearest vascular interfaces in four of eight tissue compartments studied, compared to TNF-α where one of eight tissue compartments showed significant diminishment in barrier function. The increase in permeability associated with reduced barrier function was observed at both tissue compartment and cellular length scales. The observation of pericellular transport of the albumin-sized molecules to osteocytes contrasts with previous observations of barrier function in healthy, untreated animals and is indicative of increased molecular transport in pericellular regions of musculoskeletal tissues in cytokine-treated animals. Understanding age- and disease-related changes in molecular transport within musculoskeletal structures, such as the knee joint, is crucial for elucidating the etiology and pathogenesis of osteoarthritis. Full article

Wildfires pose a regularly increasing threat to ecosystems and critical infrastructure. The severity of this threat is steadily increasing. The growing threat necessitates the development of technologies for rapid and accurate early detection. However, the prevailing fire point detection algorithms, including several deep learning models, are generally constrained by the inherent hard threshold limitations in their decision-making logic. As a result, these methods lack adaptability and robustness in complex and dynamic real-world scenarios. To address this challenge, the present paper proposes an innovative two-stage, semi-supervised anomaly detection framework. The framework initially employs a Transformer-based autoencoder, which serves to transform raw fire-free time-series data derived from satellite imagery into a multidimensional deep anomaly feature vector. Self-supervised learning achieves this transformation by incorporating both reconstruction error and latent space distance. In the subsequent stage, a semi-supervised XGBoost classifier, trained using an iterative pseudo-labeling strategy, learns and constructs an adaptive nonlinear decision boundary in this high-dimensional anomaly feature space to achieve the final fire point judgment. In a thorough validation process involving multiple real-world fire cases in Yunnan Province, China, the framework attained an F1 score of 0.88, signifying a performance enhancement exceeding 30% in comparison to conventional deep learning baseline models that employ fixed thresholds. The experimental results demonstrate that by decoupling feature learning from classification decision-making and introducing an adaptive decision mechanism, this framework provides a more robust and scalable new paradigm for constructing next-generation high-precision, high-efficiency wildfire monitoring and early warning systems. Full article

Background: Deep gluteal syndrome (DGS) is an underdiagnosed cause of sciatica-like pain, involving the entrapment of the sciatic nerve by various structures within the subgluteal space. While cases of ossification or calcification in the context of severe pelvic imbalance have been rarely reported, isolated SSL calcification as a primary cause of DGS remains largely unexplored and undocumented. This case report presents the first documented instance of sacrospinous ligament (SSL) calcification identified as the primary cause of DGS and its successful management with ultrasound-guided prolotherapy. Case Presentation: A 51-year-old female presented with severe, worsening left-sided sciatica of several months’ duration. Physical examination revealed an antalgic gait, positive sacroiliac joint tests, and multiple positive DGS-specific provocative tests (FAIR, Pace sign, Seated Piriformis Stretch). Radiographs and musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK-US) confirmed calcification within the left sacrospinous ligament, with associated sciatic nerve swelling. The patient underwent three sessions of ultrasound-guided prolotherapy (dextrose 10% with lidocaine) targeting the calcification site, followed by a structured rehabilitation program. Results: The patient reported a significant reduction in pain, from a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score of 10/10 to 1/10 within one month. All previously positive provocative tests converted to negative, indicating a resolution of the nerve entrapment. Functional mobility was fully restored. Conclusions: This case highlights isolated sacrospinous ligament calcification as a potential and previously overlooked pathological entity responsible for deep gluteal syndrome. To our knowledge, this is the first report to implicate ligamentous calcification as a primary etiological factor in DGS. Musculoskeletal ultrasound proved indispensable for both diagnosis and treatment guidance. Furthermore, ultrasound-guided prolotherapy emerged as a successful and minimally invasive therapeutic option in this case, potentially by stabilizing the ligament and reducing neurogenic inflammation. This case expands the differential diagnosis of sciatica, introduces a new target for intervention in refractory cases, and underscores the need for future studies in larger patient cohorts to validate these findings. Full article

The transformation of smectite to illite documents multi-scale water–rock–hydrocarbon interaction dynamics. Current studies predominantly emphasize the influence of inorganic systems on this process, while overlooking the dynamic regulation by organic matter and the synergistic effects of multiple controlling factors under actual geological conditions. In this study, we conducted integrated semi-open pyrolysis experiments on natural samples from the Chang-7 Member and hydrothermal experiments using synthetic analogs. The illitization process of smectite was characterized through XRD analysis and SEM observations, while organic geochemical testing was employed to track the corresponding thermal evolution of organic matter. The semi-open pyrolysis results reveal that significant changes in illite–smectite (I/S) mixed layer minerals and illite content/morphology occur above 320 °C, which coincides with the critical threshold for extensive organic matter evolution. Thermal degradation of organic matter generates pore space, thereby enhancing water–rock interactions involving clay minerals. This demonstrates the co-evolution of organic matter and smectite, and indicates that temperature indirectly influences illitization by regulating organic matter thermal evolution. The hydrothermal simulation experiments demonstrate the early-stage characteristics of illitization. Unlike long-term geological evolution, K⁺ under experimental conditions primarily originates from the aqueous medium due to kinetic constraints on feldspar dissolution. Notably, organic matter regulates K⁺ partitioning dynamics—increased organic matter content hinders K⁺ incorporation into smectite interlayers, thereby suppressing the illitization process. Cross-system experimental analysis reveals that organic matter exhibits temporally dependent dual functionality, serving both mediating and modulating roles within inorganic diagenetic systems. This study delineates diagnostic-stage-dependent mechanisms governing smectite illitization through multifactorial synergistic interplay, establishing a predictive framework applicable to organic-rich systems exemplified by the Chang-7 Shale. Full article

Continuum robots with outstanding compliance, dexterity, and lean bodies are successfully applied in medicine, aerospace engineering, the nuclear industry, rescue operations, construction, service, and manipulation. However, the inherent low stiffness characteristics of continuum bodies make it challenging to develop ultra-long and small-diameter continuum robots. To address this size–scale challenge of continuum robots, we developed an 8 m long continuum robot with a diameter of 23 mm by a tip actuation and growth mechanism. Meanwhile, we also realized the untethered design of the continuum robot, which greatly increased its usable space range, portability, and mobility. Demonstration experiments prove that the developed growing continuum robot has good flexibility and manipulability, as well as the ability to cross obstacles and search for targets. Its continuum body can transport liquids over long distances, providing water, medicine, and other rescue items for trapped individuals. The functionality of an untethered growing continuum robot (UGCR) can be expanded by installing multiple tools, such as a grasping tool at its tip to pick up objects in deep wells, pits, and other scenarios. In addition, we established a static model to predict the deformation of UGCR, and the prediction error of its tip position was within 2.6% of its length. We verified the motion performance of the continuum robot through a series of tests involving workspace, disturbance resistance, collision with obstacles, and load performance, thus proving its good anti-interference ability and collision stability. The main contribution of this work is to provide a technical reference for the development of ultra-long continuum robots based on the tip actuation and steering principle. Full article

Colletotrichum graminicola, the causative agent of maize anthracnose leaf blight and stalk rot, severely jeopardizes the healthy development of the maize industry. Auxiliary activity enzymes (AAs), a vital subclass of carbohydrate-active enzymes, act as beneficial accessory proteins for fungi in degrading lignocellulose. This study identified 127 AA genes from the genome of C. graminicola strain TZ-3 and further analyzed the subcellular localization, conserved motifs, and domains of the proteins encoded by these genes. The CgAA genes exhibited significant variations in gene structure, and the structural motifs within their encoded proteins also differed. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that most CgAA proteins were localized in the extracellular space. Moreover, the CgAA gene family contained abundant conserved domains, suggesting diverse functionalities and potential roles in various fungal biological processes. Multiple cis-acting regulatory elements related to stress responses and plant hormones were detected in the promoter regions of these genes. This study analyzed the expression patterns of CgAA genes during pathogen–host interactions and found that most CgAA genes were differentially expressed in the interaction between C. graminicola and maize. Coupled with GO functional analysis, it was discovered that CgAAs are deeply involved in the interaction between C. graminicola and maize, closely associated with the pathogenic mechanisms of the pathogen, and may play crucial roles in the initiation and expansion of fungal infections. These results provide valuable resources for elucidating the functions of AA genes and lay the groundwork for sustainable agricultural development through the utilization of AA genes in disease control and the breeding of stress-resistant, high-yield crop varieties. Full article

Green infrastructure (GI) and nature-based solutions (NBSs) in land-use planning and landscape architecture represent a holistic, interdisciplinary response to environmental and societal challenges. Although integrated into Slovak legislation since 2019, their formal implementation has progressed rather slowly, creating a gap that has been increasingly addressed by civic initiatives (CIs) of diverse types and legal forms. This study examines approaches and methods of CIs in Slovakia implementing GI and NBSs, while focusing on their legal forms, activities, spatial delimitations, and their impact on green space development and governance. Analysis of seventeen case studies shows that many CIs operate at multiple levels—local, national, and international—often delivering professional, conceptually grounded solutions. The most frequent NBS activities involve creating or enhancing parks, green public spaces, and community gardens, as well as restoring natural and semi-natural areas through nature-based management. Knowledge creation and awareness-raising are central strategies, including environmental education centres, citizen science, public campaigns, and informal learning platforms. The transformation of derelict areas into multifunctional public spaces emerges as a notable practice, combining ecological regeneration with cultural and social uses. The findings highlight the growing role of civic actors in advancing inclusive, participatory, and knowledge-based environmental management and call for stronger institutional support to integrate their contributions into formal administrative frameworks. Full article

In this paper, we propose systematic controller design guidelines to ensure both individual vehicle stability and string stability in cooperative adaptive cruise control (CACC)-based platoon systems, assuming a homogeneous platoon where all vehicles share identical dynamic models. We rigorously demonstrate that the limitation of conventional adaptive cruise control (ACC) in maintaining the target inter-vehicle distance can be effectively overcome by incorporating the desired acceleration of the preceding vehicle as a static feedforward input. Furthermore, by formulating transfer functions in the frequency domain, we analytically derive the conditions required to ensure both individual vehicle stability and string stability of the CACC system. Building on this insight, we propose a practical and theoretically well-founded design guideline for determining the proportional, derivative, and feedforward gains of control input under a constant time gap spacing policy. The proposed guidelines are validated through simulations conducted in a realistic platooning scenario involving multiple vehicles. Full article

Currently, citizens of the Western world are struggling with (1) the rapid growth and increasing densification of cities and (2) the excessive time spent of citizens indoors. This article aims to contribute to changing this paradigm through proposals for organizing outdoor spaces in schools that are easy to implement and that allow new generations to experience the multiple benefits of using the outdoors. To encourage such use, we propose using school outdoor spaces for teaching/learning activities, complementing spaces traditionally committed to play, sports, and peer socialization. The presented proposals were developed using a collaborative methodology involving the school community, supervised by final-year students and professors from the University of Lisbon’s MSc. in Architecture program. The results demonstrate a wide range of ideas capable of stimulating learning among children and young people, as well as encouraging teachers to increase outdoor teaching activities. The implementation of these proposals will certainly have a positive impact on the planning and construction/qualifying of cities, providing their citizens with greater and better use/enjoyment of outdoor space, as well as all the benefits associated with it. Full article