Search Results (1,161)

Background: Intracellular miRNA transfer is an intriguing and lesser-described mode of intracellular communication. Epithelial ovarian carcinoma, of which the high-grade serous histotype represents the most common and deadliest form, is characterized by a microenvironment consisting of tumor and stromal cells, ascitic fluid, and extracellular matrix, presenting a rich milieu of factors that can affect neighboring cells. Methods: We examined the mode of miR transfer in serous ovarian carcinoma cell lines cultured on different extracellular matrix supports both in two-dimensional and three-dimensional formats coupled with traditional, live-cell time-lapse, multiphoton fluorescence imaging modalities, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting approaches. Results: Our data demonstrate that miR can transfer between cells both in culture and in vivo. Moreover, transferred miRNA results in target-specific gene expression changes in recipient cells. Our data indicate that miR transfer occurs via extracellular vesicles, which shuttle from and within the donor and recipient cells via endocytic pathways recruiting sorting, early, late, and recycling endosomes. Conclusions: Our study highlights the phenomenon of miR transfer as a mode of communication between serous ovarian cancer cells, which can affect both treatment and diagnostics of this disease. Full article

Metalloproteinases (MPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs), implicated in various diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular conditions. Among MPs, ADAM-17, also known as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-converting enzyme (TACE), plays a crucial role in extracellular matrix remodeling and cytokine release. Dysregulation of ADAM-17 contributes to inflammatory diseases, cancer progression, and immune modulation. While small-molecule inhibitors have been limited by off-target effects and instability, antibody-based approaches offer a more selective strategy. Monoclonal antibodies show promise in blocking ADAM-17 activity, but there are concerns about toxicity due to the lack of selectivity. Enhancing the binding affinity and selectivity of single-chain antibodies requires unraveling the structural details that drive MP targeting. This study uses yeast surface display (YSD) and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) to engineer single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibodies with optimized complementarity-determining region 3 of the heavy chain (CDR-H3) conformations. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to identify key residues contributing to high-affinity ADAM-17 binding. These findings offer a framework for designing monoclonal antibodies against ADAM-17 and other MPs, paving the way for novel antibody-based designer scaffolds with applications in developing therapeutics. Full article

Public procurement in many European Union member states remains strongly price-oriented, often at the expense of delivery performance, innovation, and effective risk management. This study examines how the Best Value Approach (BVA) operates within a post-transition, legality-focused administrative environment through a document-based embedded case study of a major public construction contract in the Czech Republic. By analysing artefacts from the Selection, Clarification, and Execution phases, the study traces how BVA’s core governance mechanisms—expert signalling, vendor-led risk ownership, and information-centric oversight—functioned under locally constraining conditions. The findings show that BVA improved capability sorting, surfaced risks earlier, and enhanced transparency through structured reporting instruments such as Weekly Risk Reports (WRRs), Directors’ Reports (DRs), and Key Performance Indicators (KPI)s. However, the performance effects were partial. Three boundary conditions attenuated BVA’s mechanisms: a 40% price weighting that constrained qualitative differentiation, the omission of a formal Value-Added (VA) pathway for supplier-initiated optimisation, and the absence of continuous expert facilitation to support methodological fidelity. A documented execution-phase cost variance of approximately five percent further indicates residual volatility where key BVA complements are incomplete. The study integrates Principal–Agent theory, New Public Governance, and institutional isomorphism to explain why BVA’s governance architecture activated only in attenuated form and identifies the institutional conditions that moderate its effectiveness. While limited to a single revelatory case, the findings support analytical generalisation to similarly price-dominant, audit-driven procurement regimes in post-transition EU member states and offer practical guidance for evaluation design, innovation pathways, and facilitation models. Full article

This paper presents Greenopoli, an innovative framework for sustainability and waste management education that has engaged over 600 schools and 90,000 students since 2014. Greenopoli is founded on the idea that children and youth can grasp environmental issues as well as adults and act as agents of change within their families and communities. The Greenopoli approach combines scientific accuracy with playful, creative pedagogy to simplify complex topics and stimulate peer-to-peer learning. It includes storytelling, games, field visits, and “green raps” (original environmental songs co-created with students). The framework is adaptive, with content and activities tailored to education stages from kindergarten through university. Educators adopt the role of moderators or facilitators, encouraging students to discuss and discover concepts collaboratively. Greenopoli’s participatory method has been implemented across all age groups, yielding enthusiastic engagement and tangible outcomes in waste sorting and recycling behaviors. The program’s reach has extended beyond schools through collaborations with national recycling consortia, NGOs, municipalities, and media (TV programs, social media, TEDx talks). Numerous awards and recognitions (2017–2025) have highlighted its impact. A comparative analysis shows that Greenopoli’s use of peer-led learning, gamification, and creative communication aligns with global best practices while offering a unique blend of tools. Greenopoli is a novel best-practice model in environmental education, bridging theory and practice and contributing to the goals of Education for Sustainable Development and a circular economy. It demonstrates the effectiveness of engaging youth as change-makers through interactive and creative learning, and it can inspire similar initiatives globally. Full article

Mesenchymal stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are a promising source for regenerative therapies due to their multipotency, proliferative capacity, and immunomodulatory properties. The present study aimed to isolate and characterize SHED subpopulations based on CD71 and CD146 expression and evaluate their multilineage differentiation potential. SHED were obtained from pediatric donors and separated into CD71⁺, CD71⁻, CD146⁺, and CD146⁻ fractions using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS). CD71⁺/CD71⁻ and CD146⁺/CD146⁻ populations were isolated independently; no simultaneous double sorting for both markers was performed. Immunocytochemistry was employed to confirm the expression of surface and intracellular markers, including STRO-1, CD44, nestin, and vimentin. Multilineage differentiation assays toward osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic lineages revealed that CD71⁺ cells exhibited reduced osteogenic capacity compared to CD71⁻ cells, whereas CD146⁺ cells showed enhanced osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation. Chondrogenic differentiation seemed unaffected by marker expression under the 2D conditions employed. These results highlight functional heterogeneity within SHED populations and indicate that CD71 and CD146 independently influence differentiation outcomes. The selective enrichment of CD146⁺ SHED may enhance osteogenic and adipogenic regenerative applications, while CD71⁺ subsets may serve as a valuable model for studying proliferation and paracrine effects. Limitations include the use of in vitro differentiation assays and the absence of in vivo validation; additionally, combined CD71/CD146 analysis may further clarify the relationship between metabolic activity and stem/progenitor niche characteristics. Overall, marker-based characterization of SHED subpopulations provides insight into their biological properties and potential utility in targeted cell-based therapeutic strategies. Full article

The Hongche Fault Zone in the Junggar Basin exhibits significant spatiotemporal variations in the relationship between fault systems and hydrocarbon accumulation across different structural belts. Two key factors contribute to this phenomenon: frequent tectonic activities and well-developed Paleozoic fault systems. To date, no detailed studies have been conducted on the fault systems in the Paleozoic strata of the Hongche Fault Zone. In this study, the fault systems in the Paleozoic strata of the Hongche Fault Zone were systematically sorted out for the first time. Furthermore, the controlling effects of active faults in different geological periods on hydrocarbon charging were clarified. Firstly, basing on the 3D seismic and well-log data, the structural framework and fault activity, fault systems, source-contacting faults were characterized. Vertically, the Hongche Fault Zone experienced three major thrusting episodes followed by one weak extensional subsidence Stage, forming four principal tectonic layers: Permian (Thrusting Episode I), Triassic (Thrusting Episode II), Jurassic (Thrusting Episode III), and Cretaceous–Quaternary (Post-Thrusting Subsidence). Laterally, six fault systems are identified: Middle Permian (Stage I), Late Triassic (Stage II), Jurassic (Stage III), post-Cretaceous (Stage IV), as well as composite systems from Middle Permian–Jurassic (Stages I–III) and Late Triassic–Jurassic (Stages II–III). These reveal multi-stage, multi-directional composite structural characteristics in the study area. According to the oil–source correlation, the Carboniferous reservoir is primarily sourced by Permian Fengcheng Formation source rocks in the Shawan Sag. Hydrocarbon migration tracing shows that oil migrates along faults, progressively charging from depression zones to thrust belts and uplifted areas. In this process, fault systems exert hierarchical controls on accumulation: Stage I faults dominate trap formation, Stages II and III faults regulate hydrocarbon migration, accumulation, and adjustment, while Stage IV faults influence hydrocarbon conduction in Mesozoic–Cenozoic reservoirs. By clarifying the fault-controlled hydrocarbon accumulation mechanisms in the Hongche Fault Zone, this study provides theoretical guidance for two key aspects of the Carboniferous reservoirs in the study area: the optimization of favorable exploration zones and the development of reserves. Full article

Subtropical climate in Florida offers a unique opportunity for sustainable biofuel production using native microalgae cultivated in untreated wastewater. This study bioprospected oleaginous microalgal consortia from a wastewater holding tank at the Thomas P. Smith Water Reclamation Facility in Tallahassee, Florida, aiming to identify strains capable of both nutrient remediation and lipid accumulation. Using Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), chlorophyll-containing cells were isolated and cultured on BG-11 media. Shotgun metagenomics revealed that the most robust consortia—labeled C3, C4, and C9—were dominated by Chlamydomonas, Acutodesmus, and Volvox spp., alongside diverse bacterial, fungal, and archaeal communities. Functional gene analysis indicated active pathways for photosynthesis, lipid biosynthesis, and nutrient assimilation. In microcosm experiments, these consortia achieved up to 100% ammonia, 95% phosphorus, and 89% nitrate removal, outperforming control treatments. Lipid screening confirmed significant accumulation, with consortium C9 showing the highest yield. These findings underscore the potential of native microalgal consortia for integrated wastewater treatment and biofuel production, advancing circular bioeconomy strategies for subtropical regions. Full article

This study investigates the potential use of black coal mining waste as a feedstock for plasma gasification. A national database of coal waste heaps was developed based on standardized criteria such as heap volume (>100,000 m³), accessibility, and environmental risk. From six initially sampled sites, two active and unreclaimed heaps—Jan Karel (Karviná) and Paskov D (Ostrava)—were selected for detailed material analysis due to their favorable characteristics. Subsequent plasma gasification experiments were conducted using sorted coal waste fractions at a temperature of 1600 °C in a pilot-scale plasma reactor. Four trials were performed with fuel flow rates of 15 and 20 kg/h and varying steam/fuel ratios (0.6, 1.0, and 1.3). The results revealed a high syngas yield of up to 92% by volume. Increasing the steam/fuel ratio led to higher hydrogen and carbon dioxide content in the syngas, while lower ratios favored carbon monoxide and trace methane formation. Volt-ampere characteristics of the plasma torch showed that higher nitrogen flow rates required higher voltage to maintain a stable arc. The findings confirm the technical feasibility and efficiency of converting selected coal mining waste into valuable syngas, supporting its future use in advanced waste-to-energy technologies. Full article

Innovations in manual waste sorting have stagnated for decades, despite the increasing global demand for efficient recycling solutions. The recAIcle system introduces an innovative AI-powered assistance system designed to modernise manual waste sorting processes. By integrating machine learning, continual learning, and projection-based augmentation, the system supports sorting workers by highlighting relevant waste objects on the conveyor belt in real time. The system learns from the decision-making patterns of experienced sorting workers, enabling it to adapt to operational realities and improve classification accuracy over time. Various hardware and software configurations were tested with and without active tracking and continual learning capabilities to ensure scalability and adaptability. The system was validated in initial trials, demonstrating its ability to detect and classify waste objects and providing augmented support for sorting workers with high precision under realistic recycling conditions. A survey complemented the trials and assessed industry interest in AI-based assistance systems. Survey results indicated that 82% of participating companies expressed interest in supporting their staff in manual sorting by using AI-based technologies. The recAIcle system represents a significant step toward digitising manual waste sorting, offering a scalable and sustainable solution for the recycling industry. Full article

Radioactively contaminated sandy soil is commonly encountered during nuclear facility decommissioning and nuclear accident response, and its rapid sorting and volume reduction are crucial for achieving waste minimization and lowering remediation costs. This study designed and developed a radiation measurement system based on a large-volume plastic scintillator and a NaI array detector, focusing on the design, implementation, and performance validation of its radiation detection and signal processing subsystems. The system employed differential measurement to obtain the net radioactive count rate of sandy soil, while enhancing energy spectrum stability through programmable gain control and temperature stabilization. Experimental results demonstrated that both plastic scintillator arrays effectively achieved dynamic background subtraction within a 1.8 s measurement cycle, with net count rate errors controlled below 10%. The NaI detector array achieved an energy resolution better than 8% at 662 keV, with the peak channel drift within ±1 channel. Rapid activity measurements for radioactive sources such as ²⁴¹Am and ¹³⁷Cs exhibited errors below 10%, meeting the key technical requirements for sandy soil separation and volume reduction. These findings provided data support and methodological reference for subsequent system integration and engineering application of sorting and volume reduction equipment. Full article

The modular multilevel converter (MMC) has become a pivotal technology in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems due to its modularity, superior harmonic performance, and enhanced controllability. However, conventional control strategies, including model predictive control (MPC) and sorting-based voltage balancing methods, often suffer from high computational complexity, limited real-time performance, and inadequate handling of transient events. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a novel Multi-Output Neural Network-based hybrid control strategy that integrates a multi-output neural network (MONN) with an optimized reduced-switching-frequency (RSF) sorting algorithm. The MONN directly outputs precise submodule switching signals, eliminating the need for traditional sorting processes and significantly reducing switching losses. Meanwhile, the RSF algorithm further minimizes unnecessary switching operations while maintaining voltage balance. Furthermore, to enhance the accuracy of predicted switching stage, we extend the MONN for submodule activation count prediction (ACP) and employ a novel Cardinality-Constrained Post-Inference Projection (CCPIP) to further align the predicted switching stages and activation count. Simulation results under dynamic load conditions demonstrate that the proposed method achieves a 76.1% reduction in switching frequency compared to conventional bubble sort, with high switch prediction accuracy (up to 92.01%). This approach offers a computationally efficient, scalable, and adaptive solution for real-time MMC control, enhancing both dynamic response and steady-state stability. Full article

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, autoimmune and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system that leads to the progressive loss of motor and sensory functions. Cognitive dysfunction is a common symptom that significantly affects quality of life and daily activities. The MS diagnosis involves progressive disability due to its neurodegenerative nature. Objective: to analyze the relationship between the Latin Norm Neuropsychological Assessment and Disability in Multiple Sclerosis (NLNAMS) battery and physical disability in patients with MS. Methods: A retrospective review of 100 medical records was conducted. Three sections of clinical information were analyzed: (1) sociodemographic data and medical history, (2) neurological examination including disability measures using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSS), and (3) neuropsychological assessment results obtained through the NLNAMS battery to evaluate cognitive functioning across multiple domains. Results: High correlations were observed between EDSS scores and performance on the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test–Revised (HVLT-R), which assess attention, processing speed and memory. Strong correlations were also found between EDSS and performance on verbal fluency tests, Trail Making Test (TMT), Rey–Osterrieth Complex Figure copy (ROCF), and the Modified Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (M-WCST). No significant correlation with MSS was found. Conclusions: The neuropsychological evaluation conducted with the NLNAMS battery showed a relationship between physical disability in multiple sclerosis and the domains of attention, processing speed, and memory. Therefore, this battery may provide valuable information for disease monitoring and prognosis. Full article

Primary hepatocytes are widely used in preclinical drug development, with their transporter expression being well-characterized. However, less is known about non-parenchymal liver cells (NPCs), which constitute 40% of the liver’s cell population and include sinusoidal endothelial cells and Kupffer cells. This study aimed to characterize transporter expression in murine NPCs compared to hepatocytes. Cell fractions were isolated using collagenase perfusion, density gradient centrifugation, and magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) with F4/80 and CD146 antibodies. Transporter expression and separation quality were analyzed via RT-qPCR. Results showed NPC-specific genes were significantly lower in hepatocytes and vice versa. Importantly, NPCs exhibited higher expression of several transporters: Abcc1/Mrp1 (87-fold), Abcc4/Mrp4 (4-fold), Abcc5/Mrp5 (40-fold), as well as Slc15a2/PepT2 (16-fold), Slc28a2/Cnt2 (20-fold), Slco3a1/Oatp3a1 (15-fold), and Slco4a1/Oatp4a1 (13-fold), compared to hepatocytes. Hepatocytes showed dominant expression of Abcc2/Mrp2, Abcg2/Bcrp, Slc22a1/Oct1, and others. Minimal differences in transporter expression were found between Kupffer and endothelial cells. In conclusion, the efflux transporters Abcc1/Mrp1 and Abcc5/Mrp5 are predominantly expressed in NPCs. This suggests that NPCs are potentially relevant for the transport of certain drugs and should be included in in vitro preclinical testing. Full article

This study used Q methodology to explore and categorise caregivers’ subjective perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered ‘virtual human’ (AVH) devices in caring for older adults. We derived 123 initial statements from literature and focus groups and narrowed them to 34 statements as the final Q sample. Seventeen caregivers, nurses, and social workers completed the Q-sorting procedure. Using principal component analysis and Varimax rotation in Ken-Q, we identified three perception types: Active Acceptors, who emphasise the devices’ practical utility in patient communication; Improvement Seekers, who conditionally accept the technology while seeking greater accuracy and effectiveness; and Emotional Support Seekers, who view the device as a tool for emotional relief and psychological support. These findings suggest that technology acceptance in caregiving extends beyond functional utility. It also involves trust, affective experience, and interpersonal interaction. This study integrates multiple frameworks, including the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), Science and Technology Studies (STS), and Human–Machine Communication (HMC) theory, to provide a multifaceted understanding of caregivers’ acceptance of AI technology. The results offer valuable implications for designing user-centred AI care devices and enhanced emotional and communicative functions. Full article

The mining industry faces the critical challenge of balancing economic profitability with environmental responsibility. Traditional mine planning models often prioritise financial gains, particularly Net Present Value (NPV), while placing less emphasis on environmental impacts, such as carbon emissions. This research presents a comprehensive multi-objective optimisation model for production scheduling in sublevel stoping operations. The model simultaneously aims to maximise NPV and minimise carbon emissions, providing a more sustainable framework for decision-making. The carbon emission objective comprehensively accounts for energy consumption across all key mining activities, including drilling, blasting, ventilation, transportation, crushing, and backfilling, using a “top-down” accounting method. The multi-objective problem is solved using the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), which generates a set of Pareto-optimal solutions representing the trade-off between the two conflicting goals. The model is applied to a conceptual copper deposit with 200 stopes. The results demonstrate a clear trade-off: schedules with higher NPV inevitably lead to higher carbon emissions, and vice versa. For instance, one solution yields a high NPV of $312.94 million but with 23,602 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. In contrast, another, more environmentally friendly solution reduces emissions by 26.5% to 18,647 tonnes, resulting in only a 1.21% reduction in NPV. This research concludes that integrating environmental objectives into mine planning is not only feasible but essential for promoting sustainable mining practices, offering a practical tool for operators to make informed, balanced decisions. Full article