Search Results (19,816)

Background: Breast cancer is the most common neoplasm in women. Despite effective treatments, sequelae such as decreased muscle strength, upper limb dysfunction, and tissue changes are common, highlighting the need for functional assessments during rehabilitation. This study analysed the morphofunctional profile of the upper limbs in breast cancer survivors, comparing muscle strength and ultrasound findings between groups with and without lymphoedema, as well as between ipsilateral and contralateral limbs. Methods: This cross-sectional study included female breast cancer survivors treated at an oncology physical therapy clinic. Muscle strength was measured using dynamometry (handgrip and arm flexor strength), and ultrasound assessed the thickness of the dermal–epidermal complex (DEC), subcutaneous tissue (SUB), and muscle (MT). Results: The upper limbs of 41 women were evaluated. No significant differences were observed between those with and without breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL). When comparing the ipsilateral and contralateral limbs, significant reductions were observed in arm flexor strength (p < 0.001; 95% CI: −9.77 to −2.50), handgrip strength (p < 0.001; 95% CI: −4.10 to −1.22), and tissue thickness, with increased DEC thickness on the forearm (0.20 mm; p = 0.022) and arm flexors (0.25 mm; p < 0.001) of the ipsilateral limb. Conclusion: Significant differences in muscle strength and tissue structure between ipsilateral and contralateral limbs may reflect surgical and local pathophysiological effects. A trend toward reduced values for these parameters was also noted in limbs with BCRL, reinforcing the importance of future research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and guide more effective therapeutic strategies. Full article

Research highlights a growing demand for active, experiential learning methods in higher education, especially in teacher education. While the benefits of parental involvement (PI) are well-documented, Hungary lacks tools to effectively prepare teacher trainees for fostering family–school cooperation. This study addresses this gap by introducing a custom-designed board game as an innovative teaching tool. The game simulates real-world challenges in PI through a cooperative, scenario-based framework. Exercises are grounded in international and national research, ensuring their relevance and evidence-based design. Tested with 110 students, the game’s educational value was assessed via post-gameplay questionnaires. Participants emphasized the strengths of its cooperative structure, realistic scenarios, and integration of humor. Many reported gaining new insights into parental roles and strategies for effective home–school partnerships. Practical applications include integrating the game into teacher education curricula and adapting it for other educational contexts. This study demonstrates how board games can bridge theory and practice, offering an engaging, effective medium to prepare future teachers for the challenges of PI. Full article

Lightweight steel-framing (LSF) systems have become increasingly prominent in modern construction due to their structural efficiency, design flexibility, and sustainability. However, traditional facade materials such as stone are often cost-prohibitive, and brick veneers—despite their popularity—pose seismic performance concerns. This study introduces an innovative porcelain sheathing system for cold-formed steel (CFS) shear walls. Porcelain has no veins thus it offers integrated and reliable strength unlike granite. Four full-scale CFS shear walls incorporating screwed porcelain sheathing (SPS) were tested under combined cyclic lateral and constant gravity loading. The experimental program investigated key seismic characteristics, including lateral stiffness and strength, deformation capacity, failure modes, and energy dissipation, to calculate the system response modification factor (R). The test results showed that configurations with horizontal sheathing, double mid-studs, and three blocking rows improved performance, achieving up to 21.1 kN lateral resistance and 2.5% drift capacity. The average R-factor was 4.2, which exceeds the current design code values (AISI S213: R = 3; AS/NZS 4600: R = 2), suggesting the enhanced seismic resilience of the SPS-CFS system. This study also proposes design improvements to reduce the risk of brittle failure and enhance inelastic behavior. In addition, the results inform discussions on permissible building heights and contribute to the advancement of CFS design codes for seismic regions. Full article

This study examines the development of the digital economy and society in the Republic of Kazakhstan by combining international benchmarking with a context-specific national framework. It highlights the limitations of existing global indices such as DESI, NRI, and EGDI in capturing the structural and institutional dimensions of digital transformation in emerging economies. To address this gap, the study introduces a novel composite metric, the Index of Digital Economy Development (IDED), which integrates five sub-indices: infrastructure, usage, human capital, economic digitization, and transformation effectiveness. The methodology involves comparative index analysis, the construction of the IDED, and statistical validation through a public opinion survey and regression modeling. Key findings indicate that cybersecurity is a critical yet under-represented component of digital development, showing strong empirical correlations with DESI scores in benchmark countries. The results also highlight Kazakhstan’s strengths in digital public services and internet access, contrasted with weaknesses in business digitization and innovation. The proposed IDED offers a more comprehensive and policy-relevant tool for assessing digital progress in transitional economies. This study contributes to the literature by proposing a replicable index structure and providing empirical evidence for the inclusion of cybersecurity in national digital economy assessments. The aim of the study is to assess Kazakhstan’s digital economy development by addressing limitations in global measurement frameworks. Methodologically, it combines comparative index analysis, the construction of a national composite index (IDED), and statistical validation using a regional survey and regression analysis. The findings reveal both strengths and gaps in Kazakhstan’s digital landscape, particularly in cybersecurity and SME digitalization. The IDED introduces an innovative, context-sensitive framework that enhances the measurement of digital transformation in transitional economies. Full article

Basalt-fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP) composites, utilizing a natural high-performance inorganic fiber, exhibit excellent weathering resistance, including tolerance to high and low temperatures, salt fog, and acid/alkali corrosion. They also possess superior mechanical properties such as high strength and modulus, making them widely applicable in aerospace and shipbuilding. This study experimentally investigated the mechanical properties of BFRP plates under various strain rates (10⁻⁴ s⁻¹ to 10³ s⁻¹) and directions using an electronic universal testing machine and a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB).The results demonstrate significant strain rate dependency and pronounced anisotropy. Based on experimental data, relationships linking the strength of BFRP composites in different directions to strain rate were established. These relationships effectively predict mechanical properties within the tested strain rate range, providing reliable data for numerical simulations and valuable support for structural design and engineering applications. The developed strain rate relationships were successfully validated through finite element simulations of low-velocity impact. Full article

In this paper, SiC and Si/SiC ceramics were fabricated using direct laser powder bed fusion with chemical vapor infiltration. Their microstructure, mechanical properties and the impacts of silicon addition were analyzed. The incorporation of silicon led to an increase in the relative density of the silicon carbide ceramics from 76.4% to 78.3% and the compression strength increased from 39 ± 13 MPa to 90 ± 8 MPa after laser powder bed fusion with chemical vapor infiltration. The melting and re-solidification of silicon allows the silicon to encapsulate the silicon carbide grains, changing the microstructure and the failure mechanism of the silicon carbide ceramics, resulting in a small amount of silicon residue. In the LPBF-CVI SiC ceramic specimen, the LPBF-formed SiC exhibits a microhardness of 24.2 ± 1.0 GPa. In LPBF-CVI Si/SiC, the spherical dual-phase structure displays a moderately increased hardness (25.9 ± 4.4 GPa), and the CVI-formed SiC exhibits a hardness of 55.3 ± 9.3 GPa. Full article

Ship structures are subjected to cyclic loading from waves and currents during operation, which can lead to fatigue failure, particularly at locations with structural discontinuities such as welds. Although various fatigue assessment methods have been developed, there is a lack of experimental data and comparative studies for actual ship structure details. This study addresses this limitation by evaluating the fatigue strength of longi-web connections in hull structures using local stress approaches, including hot spot stress, effective notch stress, notch stress intensity factor, and structural stress methods. Finite element analyses were conducted, and the predicted fatigue lives and failure locations were compared with experimental results. Although there are some differences between each method, all methods are valid and reasonable for predicting the primary failure locations and evaluating fatigue life. These findings provide a basis for considering suitable fatigue assessment methods for welded ship structures with respect to joint geometry and failure mechanisms. Full article

Plasma-activated water (PAW), enriched with reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), presents oxidative and antimicrobial characteristics with potential in cosmetic applications. This study examined the effects of two PAW formulations—nitrate-rich (PAW-N) and peroxide-rich (PAW-P)—on human hair types classified as straight (Type 1), wavy (Type 2), and coily/kinky (Type 4). The impact of PAW on hair structure and chemistry was evaluated using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), UV–Vis spectrophotometry, and physicochemical analyses of the liquids (pH, ORP, conductivity, and TDS). PAW-N, with high nitrate content (~500 mg/L), low pH (2.15), and elevated conductivity (6244 µS/cm), induced significant damage to porous hair types, including disulfide bond cleavage, protein oxidation, and lipid degradation, as indicated by FTIR and EDS data. SEM confirmed severe cuticle disruption. In contrast, PAW-P, containing >25 mg/L of hydrogen peroxide and exhibiting milder acidity and lower ionic strength, caused more localized and controlled oxidation with minimal morphological damage. Straight hair showed greater resistance to both treatments, while coily and wavy hair were more susceptible, particularly to PAW-N. These findings suggest that the formulation and ionic profile of PAW should be matched to hair porosity for safe oxidative treatments, supporting the use of PAW-P as a gentler alternative in hair care technologies. Full article

Neural networks (NNs) achieve breakthroughs in computer vision and natural language processing,yet their “black box” nature persists. Traditional methods prioritise parameter optimisation and loss design, overlooking NNs’ fundamental structure as topologically organised nonlinear computational systems. This work proposes a complex network theory framework decoding structure–function coupling by mapping convolutional layers, fully connected layers, and Dropout modules into graph representations. To overcome limitations of heuristic compression techniques, we develop a topology-sensitive adaptive pruning algorithm that evaluates critical paths via node strength centrality, preserving structural–functional integrity. On CIFAR-10, our method achieves 55.5% parameter reduction with only 7.8% accuracy degradation—significantly outperforming traditional approaches. Crucially, retrained pruned networks exceed original model accuracy by up to 2.63%, demonstrating that topology optimisation unlocks latent model potential. This research establishes a paradigm shift from empirical to topologically rationalised neural architecture design, providing theoretical foundations for deep learning optimisation dynamics. Full article

This study investigates the relationship between the compressive strength of two-course masonry specimens and three-course masonry specimens extracted from previously constructed walls, to correlate the execution control specimens with the retest specimens. Compressive strength tests were performed on clay masonry units, laboratory-built two-course masonry specimens, and three-course masonry specimens extracted from constructed walls, following the prescriptions of NBR 15270 and NBR 16868-3. The results demonstrate that three-course masonry specimens exhibit lower compressive strength (characteristic and average, 44.83% and 40.29%, respectively) compared to two-course masonry specimens. Additionally, it was found that the dispersion of results is greater in three-course masonry specimens. Given that three-course specimens are typically used when it becomes necessary to verify the structural compliance of executed masonry—usually following unsatisfactory results from execution control using two-course specimens—more data are needed to compare such results. Factors such as increased height-to-thickness ratio, the presence of head joints, and the influence of execution conditions at the construction site seem to influence the difference between two and three-course specimens, as well as the dispersion of the results. Therefore, it is essential that technical standards provide supporting criteria to enable a reliable comparison between two-course specimens used for execution control and three-course specimens used as retest elements. Full article

This study investigates the self-assembly and host–guest complexation behaviour of novel resveratrol-based lipophenols (LipoResv)—resveratrol-4′-linoleate (Resv-4′-LA) and resveratrol-4′-docosahexaenoate (Resv-4′-DHA)—with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrins (HP-β-CDs). These amphiphilic molecules display surfactant-like properties, forming micellar aggregates in aqueous media. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to determine the critical micelle concentration (CMC), revealing that LipoResv exhibit significantly lower CMC values than their free fatty acids, indicating higher hydrophobicity. The formation of inclusion complexes with HP-β-CDs was evaluated based on changes in CMC values and further confirmed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and molecular modelling analyses. Resv-4′-LA formed 1:1 complexes (Kc = 720 M⁻¹), while Resv-4′-DHA demonstrated a 1:2 stoichiometry with lower affinity constants (K₁ = 17 M⁻¹, K₂ = 0.18 M⁻¹). Environmental parameters (pH, temperature, and ionic strength) significantly modulated CMC and binding constants. Computational docking and molecular dynamics simulations supported the experimental findings by revealing the key structural determinants of the host–guest affinity and micelle stabilization. Ligand efficiency (LE) analysis further aligned with the experimental data, favouring the unmodified fatty acids. These results highlight the versatile encapsulation capacity of HP-β-CDs for bioactive amphiphile molecules and support their potential applications in drug delivery and functional food systems. Full article

Since the initial use of biological ion channels to detect single-stranded genomic base pair differences, label-free and highly sensitive resistive pulse sensing (RPS) with nanopores has made remarkable progress in single-molecule analysis. By monitoring transient ionic current disruptions caused by molecules translocating through a nanopore, this technology offers detailed insights into the structure, charge, and dynamics of the analytes. In this work, the RPS platforms based on biological, solid-state, and other sensing pores, detailing their latest research progress and applications, are reviewed. Their core capability is the high-precision characterization of tiny particles, ions, and nucleotides, which are widely used in biomedicine, clinical diagnosis, and environmental monitoring. However, current RPS methods involve bottlenecks, including limited sensitivity (weak signals from sub-nanometer targets with low SNR), complex sample interference (high false positives from ionic strength, etc.), and field consistency (solid-state channel drift, short-lived bio-pores failing POCT needs). To overcome this, bio-solid-state fusion channels, in-well reactors, deep learning models, and transfer learning provide various options. Evolving into an intelligent sensing ecosystem, RPS is expected to become a universal platform linking basic research, precision medicine, and on-site rapid detection. Full article

Slab-replacement operations are crucial for restoring deteriorated CRTS I slab ballastless tracks to operational standards. This study investigates the structural implications of the operation by evaluating the strength characteristics and material properties of track components both prior to and following replacement. Apparent strength was measured using rebound hammer tests on three categories of slabs: retained, deteriorated, and newly installed track slabs. In addition, samples of old and new filling resins were collected and tested to determine their elastic moduli. These empirical data were subsequently used to develop a refined finite-element model that captures both pre- and post-replacement conditions. Under varying temperature loads, disparities in component performance were found to significantly affect stress distribution. Specifically, before replacement, deteriorated track slabs exhibited 10.74% lower strength compared to adjacent retained slabs, whereas, after replacement, new slabs showed a 25.26% increase in strength over retained ones. The elastic modulus of old filling resin was measured at 5.19 kN/mm, 35.13% below the minimum design requirement, while the new resin reached 10.48 kN/mm, exceeding the minimum by 31.00%. Although the slab-replacement operation enhances safety by addressing structural deficiencies, it may also create new weak points in adjacent areas, where insufficient stiffness results in stress concentrations and potential damage. This study offers critical insights for optimizing maintenance strategies and improving the long-term performance of ballastless track systems. Full article

The contamination of drinking water by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) presents a global concern due to their extreme persistence, driven by strong C–F bonds. This study investigated the potential of graphene as a filtration material for PFAS removal, focusing on six key compounds regulated by the U.S. EPA: PFOA, PFNA, GenX, PFBS, PFOS, and PFHxS. Using molecular simulations, adsorption energy, diffusion coefficients, and PFAS-to-graphene distances were analyzed. The results showed that adsorption strength increased with molecular weight; PFOS (500 g/mol) exhibited the strongest adsorption (−171 kcal/mol). Compounds with sulfonic acid head groups (e.g., PFOS) had stronger interactions than those with carboxylate groups (e.g., PFNA), highlighting the importance of head group chemistry. Shorter graphene-to-PFAS distances also aligned with higher adsorption energies. PFOS, for example, had the shortest distance at 8.23 Å (head) and 6.15 Å (tail) from graphene. Diffusion coefficients decreased with increasing molecular weight and carbon chain length, with lower molecules like PFBS (four carbon atoms) diffusing more rapidly than heavier ones like PFOS and PFNA. Interestingly, graphene enhanced PFAS mobility in water, likely by disrupting the water structure and lowering intermolecular resistance. These results highlight graphene’s promise as a high-performance material for PFAS removal and future water purification technologies. Full article

Difficult, extreme operating conditions of parabolic antennas under precipitation and sub-zero temperatures require the creation of effective heating systems. The purpose of the research is to develop a multilayer coating containing two metal-ceramic layers, epoxy composite layers, carbon fabric, and an outer layer of basalt fabric, which allows for effective heating of the antenna, and to study the properties of this coating. The multilayer coating was formed on an aluminum base that was subjected to abrasive jet processing. The first and second metal-ceramic layers, Al₂O₃ + 5% Al, which were applied by high-speed multi-chamber cumulative detonation spraying (CDS), respectively, provide maximum adhesion strength to the aluminum base and high adhesion strength to the third layer of the epoxy composite containing Al₂O₃. On this not-yet-polymerized layer of epoxy composite containing Al₂O₃, a layer of carbon fabric (impregnated with epoxy resin) was formed, which serves as a resistive heating element. On top of this carbon fabric, a layer of epoxy composite containing Cr₂O₃ and SiO₂ was applied. Next, basalt fabric was applied to this still-not-yet-polymerized layer. Then, the resulting layered coating was compacted and dried. To study this multilayer coating, X-ray analysis, light and raster scanning microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used. The thickness of the coating layers and microhardness were measured on transverse microsections. The adhesion strength of the metal-ceramic coating layers to the aluminum base was determined by both bending testing and peeling using the adhesive method. It was established that CDS provides the formation of metal-ceramic layers with a maximum fraction of lamellae and a microhardness of 7900–10,520 MPa. In these metal-ceramic layers, a dispersed subgrain structure, a uniform distribution of nanoparticles, and a gradient-free level of dislocation density are observed. Such a structure prevents the formation of local concentrators of internal stresses, thereby increasing the level of dispersion and substructural strengthening of the metal-ceramic layers’ material. The formation of materials with a nanostructure increases their strength and crack resistance. The effectiveness of using aluminum, chromium, and silicon oxides as nanofillers in epoxy composite layers was demonstrated. The presence of structures near the surface of these nanofillers, which differ from the properties of the epoxy matrix in the coating, was established. Such zones, specifically the outer surface layers (OSL), significantly affect the properties of the epoxy composite. The results of industrial tests showed the high performance of the multilayer coating during antenna heating. Full article