Search Results (9,964)

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of melatonin supplementation during bovine in vitro embryo production (IVEP) on embryonic development and quality, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, mitochondrial activity, gene expression, DNA methylation patterns, and cryotolerance. Four treatments were tested: control (without melatonin), melatonin at maturation (IVM + Mlt), culture (IVC + Mlt), and both treatments (IMV/IVC + Mlt). Melatonin significantly improved blastocyst rate and developmental kinetics on D7, reduced ROS and intracellular lipid levels, and increased mitochondrial activity. The most significant effects were observed in the IVC + Mlt group. Melatonin modulated antioxidant (SOD1, Cat, and GSS) and epigenetic (TET1, TET3, and DNMT3A) genes, and although it did not alter lipid gene expression, it reduced lipid content. Methylation analysis showed hypomethylation patterns in repetitive regions (Satellite I and LINE-1), which were even more pronounced in the melatonin-treated groups. However, no significant differences were observed between treatments in terms of cryotolerance or apoptosis rates. These findings suggest that melatonin exerts positive multifactorial effects, regardless of the supplementation stage. In particular, its addition during the IVC phase appears to provide greater benefits to embryos by improving their quality. Full article

The local energy balance at the liquid-solid front has been widely used in the literature. However, depending on the initial state of the system, the boundary conditions, and the thermodynamic properties of the phase change material, the local energy balance can lead to inaccuracies. The total energy balance has been applied to phase change processes; however, discrepancies have been reported regarding the dynamics of the melting front obtained through this approach. In this work, the concept of thermodynamic equilibrium is used to determine the exact liquid-solid coexistence state in adiabatic systems. Thermodynamic equilibrium of saturated mixtures is used to validate the proposed energy balance. We found that the melting front position obtained from a local energy balance can be underestimated by as much as $37.4\%$ when compared with the equilibrium value. In contrast, the interface position estimated by the total energy balance was in good agreement with equilibrium, with relative differences between $0.082\%$ and $0.11\%$. Finally, a melting experiment using paraffin RT50 was conducted in a thermally insulated cylindrical unit. The experimental front position was underestimated by the local energy balance, with differences between $2.4\%$ and $6.9\%$, while the total energy balance showed smaller discrepancies between $0.28\%$ and $5.71\%$. Full article

Deep space navigation, defined as spacecraft position tracking beyond the lunar orbit, presents significant challenges due to the extremely weak Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals and severe signal attenuation over interplanetary distances. Traditional terrestrial systems, such as NASA’s Deep Space Network (DSN) and ESA’s ESTRACK, rely on Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) for angular positioning. However, these systems are limited by relatively short baselines, atmospheric distortions requiring extensive calibration, and reduced line-of-sight (LOS) availability due to Earth’s rotation. Because VLBI angle measurements require at least two simultaneously visible stations, the measurement duty cycle is inherently constrained. This research proposes a complementary deep space navigation approach using space-based interferometry, in which radio signals from the spacecraft are received and cross-correlated onboard Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites. By replacing terrestrial VLBI stations with dual GEO platforms, the method significantly extends the effective baseline, removes atmospheric phase errors, and provides near-continuous visibility to deep space targets. Unlike Earth-based systems, GEO-based interferometry maintains persistent mutual visibility between stations, enabling higher measurement availability and more flexible mission support. A complete system model is presented, including the principles of dual-frequency phase-based angular tracking and a structured error budget analysis. Theoretical error analysis indicates that the GEO-based system achieves a total angular error better than 4 nanoradians—within the same order of magnitude as terrestrial VLBI. In particular, the space-based architecture nearly doubles the geometric availability for interferometric tracking while eliminating the need for atmospheric calibration. These results support the feasibility of the GEO-based VLBI concept and motivate continued research, including detailed simulations, hardware implementation, and field validation. Full article

Hispanic, Asian, and African Americans are disproportionately affected by liver cancer, viral hepatitis B (HBV), and viral hepatitis C (HCV), in part because of barriers to liver cancer awareness and prevention. We implemented a community-based, culturally tailored initiative to raise awareness and promote uptake of behaviors for liver cancer prevention, early diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. Guided by community-based participatory research (CBPR) principles and built on well-established collaboration with community-based organizations, we actively engaged the community advisory board (CAB), community health workers, and community members in multiple phases of (1) a community-based educational initiative, (2) a city-wide bus campaign, and (3) community health fairs. This multilevel initiative saw notable changes in community members’ knowledge of liver cancer, viral hepatitis, lifestyle behaviors like dietary patterns, and uptake of screening tests for HBV/HCV. Additionally, the comprehensive engagement of CAB, healthcare workers, and community members significantly benefited community capacity building on cancer research and health promotion. These CBPR-guided community initiatives had remarkable positive impacts on promoting liver cancer awareness and prevention among underserved racial/ethnic minorities. The academic–community relationships built on and strengthened through shared power, mutual respect, and trust serve as the foundation for sustainable community growth and empowerment. Full article

Accurate spatial sound localization is critical in flight simulators for enhancing situational awareness and pilot training effectiveness, particularly for diagnosing severe faults like engine surge which emit directional sound cues. However, existing spatial audio systems are primarily optimized for a single central listening position, failing to provide consistent localization accuracy for pilots seated in naturally off-center positions within the cockpit. To bridge this gap, this paper proposes a novel compensation method incorporating near-field loudspeakers. A comprehensive mathematical model for multiple off-center listening points is established based on acoustic velocity and energy vector theory. We further formulate a dual-phase optimization framework: a multi-objective model employing the NSGA-II algorithm to Pareto-optimize the trade-off between minimizing localization error and maximizing spatial stability, followed by a maximin model that guarantees robustness during head movements. A formal listening experiment demonstrates that the proposed optimized design significantly improves both localization accuracy and stability over conventional uniform layouts, thereby enhancing the fidelity and safety of flight simulation training. Full article

Phase-change materials (PCMs) are integral to the thermal energy storage devices used in phase-change storage air-conditioning systems, but their adoption is hindered by slow heat transfer rates and suboptimal energy storage efficiency. In this study, we design and analyze a flat-panel thermal energy storage device based on PCM, using both numerical simulations and experimental testing to evaluate performance under various operating conditions. The simulations, conducted using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in a steady-state environment with an inlet temperature of 12 °C, demonstrate that the phase-change completion time for cooling storage is 8331 s, while the cooling release process is completed in 3883 s. The fluid distribution within the device is found to be uniform, and the positioning of the inlet and outlet has a minimal effect on performance metrics. However, the lateral stacking configuration of PCM units significantly improves heat transfer efficiency, increasing it by 15% compared to vertical stacking arrangements. Experimental tests confirm that increasing the inlet flow rate accelerates the phase transition process but has a marginal impact on overall energy utilization efficiency. These results provide valuable quantitative insights into optimizing the design of phase-change thermal storage devices, particularly in terms of enhancing heat transfer and overall energy efficiency. Full article

Genome editing technologies, including CRISPR/Cas9, TALENs, and ZFNs, offer promising approaches to disrupt HPV oncogenes E6 and E7, thereby restoring tumor-suppressor pathways. In this review, we summarize recent preclinical findings demonstrating selective apoptosis and tumor regression in HPV-positive cell and animal models, as well as early-phase clinical studies exploring local CRISPR-based therapies. We also compare the relative strengths and limitations of major editing platforms, discuss delivery strategies, and highlight their potential integration with immunotherapy and conventional treatments. While preclinical studies show encouraging efficacy (e.g., up to 60% tumor regression in xenograft models and marked reactivation of p53/pRb pathways), translation into routine practice remains limited by challenges such as efficient delivery, minimizing off-target effects, long-term safety, cost, and ethical considerations. Continued optimization of high-fidelity nucleases, tissue-specific delivery systems, and genotype-tailored guide RNAs will be essential. Genome editing therefore represents a potential future addition to the therapeutic landscape of HPV-related diseases, but substantial barriers must be addressed before clinical implementation. Full article

External insulation of coastal power grids transmitting offshore wind power faces significant threats from salt fog flashovers. Current arc monitoring and early warning technologies for flashover are severely inadequate. Research on salt fog discharge processes and determining the threshold at the flashover brink for transmission equipment external insulation is crucial for ensuring the safe operation of coastal grids delivering offshore wind power. Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG), with its advantages of compact size, excellent insulation, and fast response, enables effective discharge monitoring and identification of the critical flashover state on external insulation surfaces. In this study, FBGs were embedded at the interfaces of typical external insulation specimens, including silicone rubber plates and epoxy resin plates, to conduct contaminated AC salt fog discharge tests. Synchronized measurements of visible light images, infrared thermal images, and FBG interface temperature were conducted to investigate the discharge physical processes on silicone rubber insulating surfaces and the flashover threshold based on FBG temperature rise rate. The results indicate that discharge process can be divided into three phases: arc initiation, extension, and flashover based on the characteristics of arc visible light images. By comparing arc locations in infrared and visible light images with the corresponding FBG interface temperature rise, the arc phase criterion of FBG interface temperature rise rate and position were proposed. Furthermore, through multiple experiments, it has been found that flashover occurs when both interface temperatures reached above 4.6 × 10⁻² °C/s. This study provides a novel research methodology for physical process of external insulation discharge and flashover warning in coastal salt fog environments. Full article

Orbital angular momentum (OAM) beams exhibit divergence during transmission, which constrains the capacity of communication system channels. To address these challenges, intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRSs), which can independently manipulate incident electromagnetic waves by adjustment of their amplitude and phase, are employed to construct IRS-assisted OAM communication systems. By introducing additional information pathways, IRSs enhance diversity gain. We studied the simulations of two placement methods for an IRS: arbitrary placement and standard placement. In the case of arbitrary placement, the beam reflected by the IRS can be decomposed into different OAM modes, producing various reception powers corresponding to each OAM mode component. This improves the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the receiver, thereby enhancing channel capacity. In particular, when the IRS is symmetrically and uniformly positioned at the center of the main transmission axis, its elements can be approximated as a uniform circular array (UCA). This configuration not only achieves optimal reception along the direction of the maximum gain of the orbital angular momentum beam but also reduces the antenna radius required at the receiver to half or even less. Full article

This paper presents a new method for detecting phase loss in Ynd transformers by integrating a Backup Interface Unit (BUI). Traditional detection techniques often struggle to reliably distinguish between genuine phase loss events and current imbalances caused by load variations, harmonics, or asymmetrical operating conditions, which can lead to delayed response or false triggering. The proposed method combines Clarke and Park transformations with controlled off-grid transition tests to enhance fault identification and validation. By applying these techniques, the system achieves higher sensitivity to true phase loss while maintaining robustness against normal operating disturbances. Simulation and laboratory experimental results confirm improved detection accuracy, reduced false positives, and faster protection response compared to conventional approaches. In addition, the method ensures continued operation and voltage stability during faults, which is critical for maintaining power quality and equipment safety. These advantages make the approach highly suitable for modern industrial facilities and smart grid applications where reliability and resilience are key requirements. Full article

Accurate fault location is crucial for enabling maintenance personnel to quickly reach the fault site for inspection and repair, thereby minimizing power outage duration. To address the low fault location accuracy caused by phase unsynchronization of double-ended recording data and the dependence of traditional algorithms on accurate line parameters, this paper introduces a novel fault location algorithm for hybrid transmission lines. The method integrates a data synchronization approach with a physics-informed neural network (PINN) implemented using a backpropagation (BP) neural network architecture. First, the proposed synchronization algorithm corrects the phase misalignment between double-ended recordings. Second, a distributed-parameter fault location model is developed to derive a location function, which is then used to construct physics-informed input features. This approach reduces the need for large fault datasets, addressing the challenge of the low occurrence of faults in practice. Finally, a BP neural network employing these physics-informed features is utilized to learn the nonlinear mapping to the fault location, allowing for accurate fault location, enabling accurate positioning without requiring precise line parameters. Validation using actual line data confirms the high precision of the synchronization algorithm. Furthermore, simulations show that the proposed fault location algorithm achieves high accuracy and remains robust against variations in fault position, type, transition resistance, inception angle, and load current, making it highly practical for real engineering applications. Full article

Wound healing is a complex, multi-phase process involving hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. Syndecans (SDCs), a family of transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans, serve as co-receptors for growth factors, cytokines, and ECM components, playing critical roles in cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis. Among them, SDC-1 and SDC-4 are key regulators of skin wound healing. Due to their distinct spatial and temporal expression across various cell types—such as epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells—SDCs are well-positioned to coordinate regenerative responses. This review focuses on the spatial regulation of SDCs during skin wound healing, highlighting their roles in epidermal and dermal repair, modulation of intracellular signaling, and remodeling of the wound microenvironment. Overall, SDCs are emerging as central modulators of skin wound healing, with promising implications for regenerative medicine in the skin and beyond. Full article

Introduction: Corticosteroid therapy has been demonstrated to improve prognosis and reduce mortality in patients with severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection by attenuating the exaggerated inflammatory response that emerges in the late phase of infection. However, its impact on patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, who are at higher risk of complications, has not been specifically studied. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of corticosteroid therapy on mortality and long-term COVID-19 symptoms in this high-risk population. Methods: We analyzed the prospective registry HOPE-2. Patients with previous cardiovascular disease were selected, and 18-month all-cause death was defined as the primary endpoint. Long-term COVID-19 symptoms were considered as secondary endpoints. A total of 1188 patients with previous heart disease were included, of which 453 received corticosteroid treatment. Propensity score matching analysis in a 1:1 fashion was performed based on baseline variables that exhibited a p-value < 0.05 in the univariant analysis and outcome variables that defined corticosteroid use, with a final matched population of 796 patients. Results: In patients with pre-existing heart disease, corticosteroid treatment was not associated with differences in 18-month all-cause mortality (p = 0.52). However, a shorter duration of hospitalization (median: 8 days [IQR: 4–14] and 11 days [IQR: 7–18]; p < 0.001) was observed in patients who received corticosteroids. No significant differences in long-term COVID-19 symptoms were observed between the two groups. Conclusions: In patients with pre-existing heart disease, the absence of a clear harmful effect suggests that the positive effects of corticosteroids may be offset by their potential adverse effects which could contribute to the persistence of long COVID symptoms. This finding may reflect a differential response to corticosteroids in this high-risk subgroup, highlighting the need for further studies to clarify the role of this therapy in such patients. Full article

Agri-food supply chains, particularly in the rice sector, face persistent challenges in transparency, quality control, and sustainability due to their complexity and fragmentation. Blockchain technology provides a promising solution by ensuring secure, immutable, and verifiable records of production and supply chain activities, supporting both consumer trust and compliance with the EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). This study reports on the TRACE-RICE Mediterranean pilot project, which developed a blockchain-enabled traceability system for rice production in Portugal. A Rice Field Data Recording App, built with ArcGIS Survey123, digitized agronomic and compliance records from Integrated Production systems and linked them to blockchain-verified QR codes on consumer packaging. The pilot conducted during the 2023 harvest demonstrated the potential to enhance data consistency and streamline field recording processes, thereby improving transparency in farming practices. A total of 174 QR code interactions, primarily from Lisbon, revealed consumer engagement patterns valuable for future business analysis. The scaling phase during the 2024 harvest confirmed the system’s adaptability to different varieties and production contexts, positioning blockchain as a replicable model for sustainable and competitive rice supply chains. Full article

Background/Objectives: Skin wounds interrupt the natural anatomy and function of the skin. The body passes through four physiological phases to repair wounds after injury. Since the fibers are more closely related to the extracellular matrix structure, they can be used as scaffolds to accelerate wound closure. Shikonin is a botanical herbal remedy used as an anti-inflammatory agent and for its wound-healing characteristics. Cresols are known for their bactericidal and fungicidal properties, which promote their utilization as a disinfectant in soap. Therefore, this study aimed to formulate shikonin and cresol-loaded nanofibers for a dual wound-healing and antibacterial wound dressing in vitro. Methods: This study demonstrated the effectiveness of the drug-loaded nanofibers against diverse Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and zone of inhibition assays. Results: Scanning electron microscopy images showed successful formulation of shikonin/cresol fibers with an average diameter of 772 ± 152 nm. The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading for the dual drug-loaded fibers were 44 ± 1% and 25 ± 1 µg/mg, respectively, for shikonin, and 38 ± 1% and 21 ± 0.5 µg/mg, respectively, for cresol, with a full release of both drugs achieved after 180 min. The combination of both compounds exhibited a safe concentration of ≤6 µg/mL, with cell viability of >50% in human dermal fibroblasts (HFF-1) after 24 h. The MIC results indicated that the combination was efficient as an antibacterial agent against Gram-positive bacteria at a safe concentration. The shikonin/cresol-loaded fibrous system showed an inhibition zone close to that of the control drugs, suggesting that the drugs have retained their antibacterial activity after electrospinning. Conclusions: This dual drug-loaded fiber system showed a high potential as an antibacterial wound dressing for skin infection injuries. However, in vivo studies are required to assess the safety and efficacy in an animal model of the dual drug-loaded fiber system. Full article