Search Results (1,310)

Depth conversion of underwater static electric fields refers to a mathematical approach that indirectly determines the distribution of planar electric fields at larger depths using measured planar electric field data obtained from a shallower region with finite depth and limited area. The complicated environment of high-latitude low-temperature sea areas further increases the difficulty of performing practical large-depth measurements of underwater electric fields. Therefore, depth conversion becomes an important technical strategy for overcoming the constraints of field measurements and for comprehensively understanding the distribution of underwater static electric fields of the target. This study begins with the mathematical formulation of the depth conversion problem, solves the related boundary value problem, and develops the corresponding depth conversion method. Subsequently, based on COMSOL simulation data of the underwater static electric field generated by a scaled-down submersible model, numerical analyses are conducted to investigate the effects of factors such as grid discretization, measurement plane dimensions, conversion depth, and data noise on the conversion accuracy. Finally, the reliability of the conversion method is validated in a laboratory environment by simulating a naturally frozen sea area and employing measured underwater static electric field data from the scaled-down submersible model. The results demonstrate that the developed conversion method can effectively achieve extrapolation of the underwater static electric field of the submersible from shallow regions to deeper water. Even when the noise amplitude is nearly twice that of the effective signal and the conversion depth reaches 8 times the outer diameter of the submersible, the relative root mean square error (RRMSE) of the conversion results can still be maintained below 0.10. These findings provide useful references for the advancement of technologies related to underwater electric field characteristic recognition and electric field stealth performance evaluation in high-latitude low-temperature sea areas. Full article

Background: Esophagectomy remains a technically demanding oncologic procedure with substantial morbidity, despite ongoing advances in minimally invasive and robotic techniques. Limitations in intraoperative visualization and anatomical recognition contribute to complications such as nerve injury and bleeding. Artificial intelligence (AI)-based intraoperative video analysis has emerged as a potential adjunct to enhance surgical perception and safety, but its application in esophagectomy has not been comprehensively reviewed. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched without a lower date limit to identify eligible studies published up to January 2026, capturing early and contemporary applications of intraoperative AI in esophagectomy. Human studies involving any surgical approach were included. Data on the AI task, methodology, validation strategy, performance metrics, and reported clinical outcomes was extracted. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. Results: Six studies met the inclusion criteria, predominantly evaluating AI-driven analysis of intraoperative video during minimally invasive or robotic esophagectomy. Reported applications included real-time anatomical structure recognition, recurrent laryngeal nerve segmentation, detection of excessive nerve traction, instrument and event recognition, and surgical phase identification. Across studies, AI systems demonstrated performance comparable to expert surgeons for selected tasks and achieved real-time or near–real-time inference. One study reported earlier detection of excessive recurrent laryngeal nerve traction compared to conventional nerve integrity monitoring. However, most studies were retrospective, single-center, and feasibility-focused, with limited external validation and minimal assessment of patient-centered clinical outcomes. Conclusions: Artificial intelligence-based intraoperative analysis in esophagectomy is increasingly achievable and may enhance anatomical recognition, intraoperative risk detection, and procedural awareness. Nevertheless, current evidence remains preliminary, heterogeneous, and largely exploratory. Prospective, multicenter studies with standardized reporting and clinically meaningful outcome evaluation are required before routine implementation. Until such data is available, AI should be regarded as a complementary intraoperative tool rather than a standalone clinical decision-making system. Full article

The principal difficulty in studying the physico-mechanical and filtration-capacity properties of coals and host rocks under laboratory conditions using core samples lies in reproducing natural thermodynamic conditions characteristic of in situ depths. To address this issue, specialized equipment and methodologies for transferring measurement results are employed, including the Hoek–Brown failure criterion, the structural weakening coefficient, and the development of thermodynamic models. The reliability and accuracy of such measurements are determined by the degree of conformity between the adopted laboratory conditions and natural in situ conditions, the number of samples representing different lithological varieties, and the adequacy of sampling procedures ensuring representativeness. Particular challenges arise when sampling cleated and fractured coals formed under natural stress–strain conditions and contain methane, which significantly influences their physical properties. These difficulties are especially pronounced in prepared-for-mining high-gas-content coal seams of the Karaganda Basin at depths of approximately 700 m, where obtaining representative samples is technically complicated. Reliable values of the physico-mechanical properties of the coal–rock mass are essential for geomechanical calculations aimed at ensuring safe mining of high-gas-content seams through risk assessment of geodynamic phenomena, particularly in zones of geological disturbances, floor heave, and roof collapse. In this context, the use of a comprehensive suite of geophysical logging data from exploration boreholes makes it possible to obtain continuous, high-precision information on physico-mechanical and filtration-capacity properties. These methods are particularly important for characterizing the coal–rock mass in operating mines, since the natural state of host rocks and prepared coal seams is altered due to stress relief caused by mine workings, preliminary degasification measures, and hydraulic fracturing. The problem addressed is the need for reliable assessment of rock and coal seam parameters under natural thermodynamic stress–strain conditions, taking into account lithological composition, structural heterogeneity, fracture development, stratigraphic differentiation, and gas saturation. The aim of this study is to ensure efficient and safe coal extraction based on geomechanical calculations utilizing physico-mechanical and filtration-capacity properties of host rocks and gas-bearing coal seams, whether prepared for mining or not yet extracted. The research methods are based on an integrated complex of geophysical logging of exploration wells, specialized software tools, and statistical processing techniques to identify patterns in physico-mechanical and filtration-capacity properties of host rocks and coal seams under natural stress–strain conditions, as well as to determine the nature of changes in these properties within coal seams and roof and floor rocks in prepared mining areas. The physico-mechanical and filtration-capacity properties of host rocks and coals from the Lenin and Kazakhstanskaya mines were determined. Regularities governing the application of these parameters to coals of different formations and depths were established; fracture orientations and characteristics were evaluated; and relationships between changes in coal seam parameters and gas content were identified. A comprehensive methodological framework for studying the physical and capacity properties of the coal–rock mass under natural thermodynamic conditions has been developed. Its primary application is the investigation of coal seams prepared for mining to support geomechanical calculations for efficient and safe coal extraction, the implementation of degasification measures for high-gas-content seams, and the assessment of gas-dynamic risks based on the character of variations in physical parameters. Full article

Background and Objectives: Bile duct injury is a relatively rare, but critical complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and is most commonly attributed to misinterpretation of biliary anatomy. Intraoperative biliary imaging may enhance anatomical recognition and reduce operative uncertainty, yet the optimal imaging modality remains debated. This study aimed to compare conventional intraoperative X-ray cholangiography with two fluorescence-based techniques—intravenous and intracholecystic indocyanine green fluorescence cholangiography—with respect to biliary visualization, perioperative outcomes, and surgeon satisfaction during elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Materials and Methods: This prospective, single-center, single-blind randomized controlled trial included 240 adult patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy between June 2021 and December 2022. Participants were randomized equally to standard intraoperative cholangiography, intravenous indocyanine green fluorescence cholangiography, or intracholecystic indocyanine green fluorescence cholangiography. The primary outcome was successful visualization of predefined extrahepatic biliary landmarks, including the critical junction. Secondary outcomes included cholangiography duration, perioperative complications, postoperative inflammatory markers, and surgeon satisfaction assessed using a five-point Likert scale. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04908826). Results: Visualization rates of the critical junction and major extrahepatic bile ducts were comparable among three groups, with no statistically significant differences observed. Both fluorescence-based techniques achieved a 100% technical success rate, whereas standard cholangiography failed in a small proportion of cases. Cholangiography duration was significantly shorter in the fluorescence groups compared with standard cholangiography (p < 0.001). Surgeon satisfaction scores were significantly higher for both fluorescence approaches, with a slight preference for intravenous administration. Perioperative complication rates and postoperative inflammatory markers were com-parable among groups. Conclusions: Intravenous and intracholecystic indocyanine green fluorescence cholangiography are non-inferior to conventional intraoperative cholangiography for biliary anatomy visualization and offer advantages in procedural efficiency and surgeon satisfaction. Fluorescence-based imaging represents a safe and effective alternative for intraoperative biliary mapping during elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Full article

Sandstone uranium deposits exhibit stratabound mineralization and strong vertical heterogeneity in geological space, which complicates the identification of uranium anomaly layers and their integration into deposit-scale 3D models using borehole datasets. In this paper, we propose a UAPC Fourier layer identification (UFLI) method for uranium anomaly layer identification. The method is based on multi-log feature construction, random forest-based estimation of a depth continuous uranium anomaly probability curve (UAPC), and improved Fourier vertical variation analysis. We used 19 boreholes arranged on four exploration lines (ZKA-ZKD) of the Daying uranium deposit in the northern Ordos Basin (north central China), for the validation. The proposed UFLI method identified 51 uranium anomaly layers at a 5 m sampling interval, forming discrete vertical clusters within the drilled successions. The results indicate that anomalies are overwhelmingly concentrated in the Middle Jurassic Zhiluo Formation, particularly within the lower Zhiluo member, with an anomaly-bearing depth range of approximately 550–745 m. Comparison with known mineralization records shows that both industrial and ordinary mineralization intervals are captured within the anomaly layers. Then, based on inter-borehole continuity of anomaly layers, we reconstructed five uranium orebodies (orebodies 1–5) and describe their distribution characteristics. The proposed method provides a technical means for subsurface visualization and exploration targeting in sandstone uranium systems. Full article

Smart home technologies are increasingly integrated into residential environments jointly inhabited by older adults and young children. However, existing research remains largely ageing-centered and insufficiently addresses the governance challenges arising from generational asymmetries in vulnerability, spatial agency, and authority within shared domestic space. Rather than merely complicating design, these asymmetries fundamentally reshape how safety, autonomy, access, and surveillance are structured in everyday residential practice. This study reconceptualizes senior–child intergenerational co-living as a governance-oriented socio-technical system in which generational asymmetry functions as a structuring principle of design prioritization. An expert-based decision framework integrating interdisciplinary focus groups and the Analytic Hierarchy Process was developed to evaluate five design dimensions and thirty indicators. The findings reveal a differentiated priority structure in which intelligent safety, accessibility, and risk governance together with spatial integration and technological accessibility constitute the foundational architecture of inclusive intergenerational housing, while interaction-oriented functions receive comparatively lower weights. By embedding generational asymmetry within a formal hierarchical evaluation model, this study extends smart housing scholarship beyond ageing-centered optimization and provides a structured decision-support logic for inclusive multi-generational residential design aligned with the objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those promoting inclusive communities and health equity. Full article

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and technical challenges of central aortic cannulation for total coronary revascularization via left anterior thoracotomy (TCRAT). Methods: A retrospective, single-center observational study was conducted on the first 29 TCRAT cases performed with central aortic cannulation. The primary outcomes included operative mortality, stroke, conversion to sternotomy, major aortic bleeding, and dissection; the secondary outcomes included delirium, reoperation, infection, ICU stay, and hospitalization. The descriptive statistics were reported as means ± SD or median (interquartile range [IQR]). Results: The mean age of the patients was 57.2 ± 9.8 years, with 72% of these being male. The most frequent comorbidities observed in the study population were hypertension (62%), diabetes (52%), and peripheral artery disease (28%). The mean cross-clamp time was found to be 63 ± 27 min, and the mean CPB time was 118.6 ± 41.6 min. The occurrence of stroke, aortic dissection, major bleeding, and sternotomy conversions was not observed. One patient died from severe pneumonia on the ninth post-operative day. The mean ICU stay was 1.2 ± 0.4 days, and the mean hospital stay was 5.3 ± 1.1 days. Conclusions: Central aortic cannulation appears to be a safe and feasible procedure for TCRAT, providing physiological antegrade flow and eliminating the complications associated with peripheral cannulation. The preliminary findings suggest that central arterial cannulation may be a safe and practical alternative for the TCRAT technique, but prospective comparative studies are required to confirm its benefits over the femoral and axillary approaches. Full article

Objectives: CT-guided interventions are associated with radiation exposure, prolonged procedural time, and complications. Navigation systems (NS) have been developed to improve procedural precision and efficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of NS on procedural outcomes, radiation dose, and complication rates compared with conventional freehand techniques. Materials and methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed including 30 studies (11 randomized controlled trials, 19 cohort studies) published through November 2023, involving 2785 patients (1418 NS; 1367 control). Outcomes included the number of needle manipulations, procedural time, radiation dose, complication rates, technical success, and diagnostic success. Random-effects models were applied with subgroup analyses by study design, intervention type, and target organ. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 and ROBINS-I, and certainty of evidence using the GRADE framework. Results: Navigation systems significantly reduced needle manipulations (mean difference [MD], −2.58; 95% CI: −3.30 to −1.85) and procedural time (MD, −8.07 min; 95% CI: −12.27 to −3.87). Radiation dose decreased by 37% (ratio of means [ROM], 0.63; 95% CI: 0.58–0.69). Complication rates were lower overall (odds ratio [OR], 0.64), with fewer chest tube insertions during lung ablations (OR, 0.58; 95% CI: 0.39–0.86). Diagnostic success improved (OR, 1.66; 95% CI: 1.01–2.73), whereas technical success was comparable (OR, 1.41; 95% CI: 0.89–2.24). Conclusions: Navigation systems significantly enhance the efficiency and safety of CT-guided interventions by reducing needle manipulations, radiation exposure, and complication rates, while improving diagnostic success. Full article

Single-phase ground faults account for more than 80% of total faults in distribution networks. However, the introduction of distributed generation complicates power grid topology, leading to strong nonlinearity and non-stationarity in the zero-sequence current. This limits the accuracy of traditional faulted line selection methods. To address this problem, a CNN–ResNet-based method for faulted line selection for single-phase ground faults in distribution networks is proposed. Firstly, a 10 kV arc ground fault simulation test platform is built to analyze the nonlinear distortion characteristics of fault current. The WOA–VMD algorithm, optimized by permutation entropy, is used to denoise the zero-sequence current signal. The Gram Angular Difference Field (GADF) is then adopted to convert the one-dimensional signal into a two-dimensional image that retains its temporal characteristics. A hybrid deep learning model is constructed by fusing the one-dimensional time-domain features extracted by CNN and the two-dimensional time-frequency image features extracted by ResNet34. Matlab/Simulink simulations and physical experimental verification demonstrate that the proposed method achieves a training accuracy of over 97%, with zero misjudgments recorded in 15 arc grounding fault tests, representing a significant improvement in accuracy compared with existing diagnostic algorithms. It can adapt to complex scenarios such as high-resistance grounding and changes in neutral point grounding mode, effectively improving the accuracy and robustness of faulted line selection and providing technical support for the safe operation of distribution networks. Full article

In clinical practice, the coexistence of Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) syndrome (also known as Wilkie’s syndrome) and Celiac Artery Compression Syndrome (also referred to as Dunbar’s syndrome) is extremely rare. This combined pathology is characterized by simultaneous impairment of blood flow in the celiac trunk and compression of the duodenum, which complicates both diagnosis and treatment strategy selection. Traditional open surgical correction is associated with significant invasiveness due to the complexity of the anatomical relationships involved. Minimally invasive approaches, including robot-assisted surgery, allow precise dissection within confined anatomical spaces. This article presents a clinical case of simultaneous robot-assisted decompression of the celiac trunk and duodenum using the da Vinci Xi system. The case demonstrates the technical feasibility of a combined minimally invasive approach for the management of concurrent vascular and duodenal compression. Full article

Background: Hydatid disease poses unique management challenges in pediatric populations due to developing anatomy and growth considerations. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy and safety of medical, surgical, and combination therapies for pediatric hydatid liver disease. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library from inception to January 2025 identified studies investigating treatment outcomes in pediatric hydatid liver disease. Data was synthesized through qualitative analysis of treatment effectiveness, complications, and patient outcomes. Results: Fifteen studies were included, comprising controlled trials, cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies. Treatment efficacy correlated significantly with cyst size: small cysts (<5 cm) responded well to albendazole monotherapy (88.3–97.6% success at 6–12 months); medium-sized cysts (5–6 cm) benefited from percutaneous interventions (PAIR) with 97.1% technical success; large cysts (>6 cm) required surgical management. Laparoscopic approaches demonstrated advantages over open surgery, including shorter hospitalization (5.6 ± 2.2 vs. 12.1 ± 1.5 days) and reduced analgesic requirements. Omentoplasty emerged as superior for residual cavity management with fewer complications than tube drainage approaches. Conclusions: This review supports personalized treatment algorithms based primarily on cyst characteristics. The findings recommend standardized protocols incorporating cyst size, location, and complexity as key decision points, with expanded access to minimally invasive techniques. Future research should focus on prospective comparative studies with standardized outcome measures. Full article

Background and Objectives: Porcelain aorta is an anatomy-driven high-risk phenotype characterized by extensive calcification of the ascending aorta, which complicates surgical aortic valve replacement by increasing embolic and technical hazards during cannulation and cross-clamping. As transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) expands into younger and low-surgical-risk populations, porcelain aorta creates a distinct clinical dilemma: optimizing short-term procedural safety while ensuring durable long-term outcomes and preserving future treatment options. Materials and Methods: We performed a targeted literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), with the last search conducted on 31 January 2026. We synthesized contemporary clinical evidence on TAVI in patients with imaging-defined porcelain aorta, focusing on neurological outcomes, procedural strategies to reduce embolic risk, access considerations, valve performance, cerebral embolic protection, and implications for lifetime valve management (including coronary access and feasibility of future valve-in-valve interventions). Results: The evidence base specific to porcelain aorta in the contemporary TAVI era is limited and largely observational. Across published cohorts, TAVI avoids direct ascending aortic cannulation and cross-clamping and is generally associated with favorable early safety, with a recurring directional signal toward lower neurological risk compared with surgical strategies that require manipulation of a severely calcified ascending aorta. Interpretation is constrained by heterogeneity in porcelain-aorta definitions, patient selection, valve platforms and access routes, as well as, variability in neurological endpoint definitions and adjudication. Conclusions: In patients with porcelain aorta, TAVI is frequently favored because it minimizes ascending aortic manipulation and may mitigate neurological and procedural hazards. In younger and low-risk patients, Heart Team decision-making should incorporate lifetime management principles, including access planning, preservation of future coronary access, and procedural strategies to reduce embolic risk (with consideration of cerebral embolic protection when appropriate). Full article

Background: Anterior Lumbar Interbody and Fusion (ALIF) is particularly effective for improving radiographic alignment and functional outcomes. However, it also introduces distinct technical challenges, even for surgeons who are highly experienced with other lumbar fusion approaches. This study analyzes the effect of surgeon experience on clinical outcomes, radiographic parameters, and operative metrics in patients with degenerative lumbar disc disease undergoing single-level L5-S1 anterior lumbar interbody fusion. Methods: Adult patients who underwent L5-S1 ALIF with or without posterior fixation for degenerative disc disease between June 2017 and December 2024 were included. Patients were stratified into Early (from 2017 to December 2020), Middle (January 2021 to December 2022), and Recent (January 2023 to December 2024) groups. Demographics, radiographic alignment, in-hospital outcomes, and 2-year complication and reoperation rates were compared based on time of surgery. Multivariate logistic and linear regression adjusted for age, sex, BMI, comorbidities, prior fusion, and posterior instrumentation was conducted to assess the effect of accumulation of surgeon experience. Results: A total of 203 ALIFs were performed (mean age: 57.6 years; 50.7% female; mean Charlson Comorbidity Index: 2.1). Recent cases showed greater PT reduction (Early = 0.9°, Middle = −1.5°, Recent = −2.2°, p = 0.039), improved PI-LL mismatch correction (−0.4°, −4.8°, −5.4°, p = 0.007), higher L5-S1 lordotic correction (6.7°, 8.4°, 11.4°, p = 0.003), lower estimated blood loss (21.9 mL, 13.8 mL, 10.0 mL, p = 0.006), shorter OR time (107.4 min, 86.6 min, 75.2 min, p < 0.001), and fewer mechanical complications (39.3% vs. 13.7%, p < 0.001) and reoperations (10.7% vs. 2.1%, p = 0.023). Regression showed that each additional year of experience predicted improved alignment, lower blood loss and OR time, and reduced odds of complications (OR = 0.54, p < 0.001) and reoperations (OR = 0.49, p = 0.015). Conclusions: In this single-surgeon, single-center cohort, increasing ALIF-specific experience over time was associated with improvements in sagittal alignment, operative efficiency, and lower complication and reoperation rates. These findings describe the longitudinal learning curve of one surgeon and should be interpreted within this context. Full article

During the process of damage identification and safety-state evaluation of cable-stayed bridges, the cable tension should also be incorporated into common monitoring, which usually includes displacement and strain. However, the testing process of cable tension is complicated, and the disassembly, installation and maintenance of the cable tension meter are higher priced and difficult. To improve the efficiency of damage evaluation regarding cable-stayed bridges, information-entropy theory is introduced and the curvature entropy index of the difference in the influence line of displacement is proposed. To obtain effective data parameters for damage evaluation, first, the dynamic disturbance in the displacement time-history response is removed through variational modal decomposition, and the multi-axle effect of vehicles is regularized, so as to identify the measured influence line of displacement of cable-stayed bridges. Second, the peak value of the curvature entropy index of the difference in the influence line of displacement under varied damage degrees of stay cables is extracted to construct the inverse fitting formula of damage degree. The entropy value of the measured influence line of displacement is then substituted into a PSO-BP neural network, so as to obtain the damage degree of the corresponding position of the measured data regarding the influence line of displacement of bridges. Finally, the health status of stay cables is evaluated using the information-entropy parameters of the influence line of displacement. The theoretical model and actual data are used for testing, and the research results show that: (1) the location and degree of cable damage can be effectively located and quantified by using the curvature entropy index of the difference in the influence line of displacement, and (2) the cable health index of the cable-stayed bridge tested by actual data is 96.73%, consistent with the conclusion of on-site technical evaluation. Full article

One of the most common and severe complications of diabetes mellitus is diabetic foot, making early detection a public health priority. Infrared thermography is a promising noninvasive technique for identifying abnormal thermal patterns associated with inflammation, neuropathy, angiopathy, and tissue damage. This technique involves acquiring infrared radiation emitted by the skin and processing it to generate thermal maps that reflect underlying physiological changes. However, the reliability of thermographic assessments depends on strict technical conditions, including sensor performance, environmental control, and reproducible measurements. Despite its advantages, the clinical adoption of thermography is limited by the absence of standardized acquisition protocols and the influence of external and physiological factors on temperature measurements. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure the accurate interpretation and validation of results. Recent advances, such as the incorporation of artificial intelligence algorithms and the development of portable, low-cost devices, offer new opportunities to enhance thermography’s applicability in clinical settings and home monitoring. Full article