Search Results (1,571)

After long-term waterflooding in offshore oilfields, the remaining oil becomes highly dispersed and discontinuous. To address the limitations of classical waterflooding theory in describing the effects of microscopic oil occurrence and stress differences on oil-phase flow, this study investigated oil–water two-phase flow during heavy-oil waterflooding using core samples from the Bohai Oilfield. The evolution of the oil-phase starting pressure gradient at different water-cut stages was measured through core two-phase steady-state displacement experiments. By combining in situ core CT scanning with pore-scale phase-field simulations, the multi-form start-up mechanisms and microscopic causes of the oil phase were clarified. The fractal characteristics of the reservoir pore structure were further incorporated to establish a calculation method for the multi-form start-up resistance of the oil phase. The results show that, as the water cut increases, the starting pressure gradient of the oil phase exhibits a nonlinear increasing trend. At a water cut of 90%, the oil-phase starting pressure gradient is approximately 7–8 times that of the pure oil phase. Meanwhile, the oil phase gradually transforms from a continuous phase to a discontinuous phase, with a smaller pore radius and a larger surface area per unit volume. Owing to the Jamin effect, capillary force exerts a stronger influence on oil-phase flow, resulting in a significant increase in the starting pressure gradient during the ultra-high water-cut stage. These findings provide a pore-scale explanation for the increase in oil-phase starting pressure gradient during ultra-high water-cut waterflooding and offer a theoretical basis for the sustainable development of mature offshore oilfields. Full article

Blood-based biomarkers offer a promising “biochemical imaging” approach for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) management, providing objective and accessible tools to complement conventional neuroimaging. This narrative review synthesizes recent advances in biomarkers derived from multiple neurovascular unit (NVU) compartments, including glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B), ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), neurofilament light chain (NfL), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), Claudin-5, Occludin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), interleukin-33 (IL-33), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), PARK7/DJ-1, glycogen phosphorylase BB (GP-BB), and circulating microRNAs. We focus on their stage-specific clinical utility across three scenarios: (1) ultra-early differentiation between ischemic stroke and intracerebral hemorrhage in prehospital and emergency settings; (2) dynamic prediction and monitoring of hemorrhagic transformation after reperfusion therapies; and (3) assessment of infarct burden, neurorepair potential, and long-term functional outcomes. Despite their promise, clinical translation remains hindered by assay platform heterogeneity, lack of standardized cut-off values, limited cost-effectiveness data, and insufficient prospective validation adjusted for key covariates such as age and renal function. We further discuss multi-marker panel construction, including strategies to address biomarker collinearity and overfitting. Future directions emphasize stage-specific panels, point-of-care testing devices, and artificial intelligence algorithms to advance precision medicine in stroke care. Full article

Deep and ultra-deep carbonate reservoirs commonly experience fracture closure and conductivity reduction under high-temperature and high-stress conditions. In this study, triaxial creep tests were conducted on unacid-etched and acid-etched carbonate cores under different stress levels to investigate their time-dependent deformation behavior and the influence of acid etching on rock rheology. The results indicate that carbonate rocks exhibit pronounced creep behavior, including instantaneous elastic deformation, primary creep, and steady-state creep. Acid etching significantly altered the creep characteristics and rheological parameters of carbonate rocks, leading to distinct time-dependent deformation responses compared with the unacid-etched core. The Burgers constitutive model was employed to characterize the creep behavior, and all fitting correlation coefficients exceeded 0.9. Finite element simulations based on the fitted parameters successfully reproduced the experimental creep curves, verifying the reliability of the constitutive model. This study provides a theoretical and numerical basis for evaluating the long-term deformation behavior of acid-etched carbonate rocks and its implications for fracture closure and conductivity evolution. Full article

Modern prosthetic dentistry has been significantly reshaped by adhesive dentistry, CAD/CAM technologies, and advanced ceramic materials, leading to the development of minimally invasive all-ceramic restorative approaches. However, the longevity of the adhesive interface is fundamental to the long-term effectiveness of these restorations. With a focus on bond durability and clinical performance, this narrative review aims to evaluate modern adhesive strategies, tooth preparation requirements, and cementation techniques in all-ceramic minimally invasive restorations. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was performed using Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed/MEDLINE databases. Publications from 2000 to 2026 were analysed. In vitro research, narrative reviews, and systematic reviews related to adhesive systems, resin cements, CAD/CAM materials, and minimally invasive prosthodontic principles were the core subjects of the research. Results: The findings indicate that material selection, surface conditioning techniques, and cementation methods have a significant impact on the clinical effectiveness of all-ceramic restorations. Retention and marginal sealing are greatly enhanced by resin-based adhesive systems. Nevertheless, hydrolytic degradation, procedure sensitivity, and substrate-related factors remain a challenge to the adhesive interface. Advances in CAD/CAM and ultra-conservative designs, like occlusal veneers and partial-coverage restorations, have increased treatment alternatives while ensuring acceptable functional and aesthetic results. Conclusions: Minimally invasive all-ceramic restorations represent a conservative and clinically effective treatment approach in modern prosthodontics. Their long-term performance is primarily dependent on adhesive interface stability and adherence to evidence-based clinical protocols. Continued developments in adhesive materials and ceramic systems are expected to improve bond durability and broaden clinical indications. Full article

The imminent threat of large-scale quantum computers motivates the deployment of post-quantum cryptography (PQC). CRYSTALS-Kyber, a leading lattice-based Key Encapsulation Mechanism, relies heavily on Number Theoretic Transform (NTT) operations, which remain a major performance and resource bottleneck. This paper presents a cross-platform NTT evaluation framework for CRYSTALS-Kyber, centered on an adaptive FPGA-based mixed-radix accelerator supporting radix-2, radix-4, and radix-8 configurations, together with comparative classical implementations and exploratory quantum-circuit prototypes. Classical evaluations show that an iterative Cooley–Tukey implementation outperforms a matrix-based baseline (≈3.6× faster for the forward NTT, ≈6.3× faster for the inverse NTT). Quantum prototypes implemented in Qiskit demonstrate proof-of-concept QFT-based NTT constructions under classical simulation environments, highlighting circuit-depth growth and noise sensitivity rather than practical hardware acceleration. The proposed FPGA design, based on a Xilinx Virtex UltraScale+ platform, employs an adaptive radix controller, LUT-based twiddle management, and Montgomery/Barrett modular arithmetic. Montgomery reduction provides superior timing and area trade-offs, with an estimated $F_{\max }$ of up to 231.48 MHz and only 5 DSPs for radix-2. At the same time, radix-2 offers the best resource/performance balance with a latency of approximately 32,804 cycles. The hybrid approach strikes a balance between near-term FPGA practicality and long-term quantum potential while preserving Kyber’s MLWE-based security. Experimental results and comparative analysis indicate that the adaptive design substantially reduces resource usage and timing overhead compared to recent HLS-based NTT accelerators. Full article

The sluggish kinetics of alkaline hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and high cost of Pt–based catalysts have long hindered large–scale deployment of alkaline membrane fuel cells. Via first–principles calculations, we designed a series of 3d transition metal single atoms anchored on PdN₂ monolayer (TM–PdN₂, TM = Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn) and evaluated their alkaline HOR performance. Ti-, Cr-, Fe-, Co-, Ni-modified systems exhibit excellent thermodynamic and electrochemical stability under operating conditions. Single-atom doping tunes the p-band center of N and d-band center of metal sites, enabling precise modulation of H and OH adsorption strengths. Mechanistic analysis reveals HOR follows H₂ + 2OH* → H* + OH* + H₂O → 2H₂O, with the final step as rate-determining step. H adsorption contributes 3.45 times more to HOR activity than OH adsorption. Fe–PdN₂ delivers the best performance, with an ultra–low barrier of 0.11 eV and a rate constant of 2.82 × 10¹⁰ s^–1·site⁻¹, values that significantly outperform those of Pt(111) (0.22 eV, 4.5 × 10⁹ s⁻¹·site⁻¹). This work provides theoretical guidance for rational design of high–performance alkaline HOR electrocatalysts. Full article

Slamming-induced whipping has been recognized as a key contributor to fatigue damage of large ships operating under severe sea states. However, accurate prediction of whipping responses remains challenging because of complex nonlinear fluid–structure interactions. This study aims to investigate the characteristics of slamming-induced whipping and quantitatively analyze its influence on the fatigue damage of an ultra-large container ship. A three-dimensional fully nonlinear time-domain hydroelastic method, in which the boundary element model is coupled with a Timoshenko beam model, is employed to predict the slamming-induced whipping responses. Segmented model tests in long-crested irregular waves are conducted to provide wave loads of hull girders under severe sea states. The total and wave-frequency vertical bending moments are separated by the fast Fourier transform, and their statistical characteristics are evaluated through probability distributions. Fatigue damage is assessed on the basis of the rainflow counting method and the Palmgren–Miner cumulative damage rule. The contribution of high-frequency whipping responses to fatigue damage is quantitatively evaluated using a fatigue damage factor. It is demonstrated that slamming-induced whipping can significantly amplify fatigue damage by increasing stress amplitudes and cycle counts, particularly under high forward speeds and severe sea conditions. The findings provide a reliable reference for the fatigue design and safety assessment of ultra-large container ships. Full article

The anomalous magnetic moment of the tau lepton, $a_{\tau }$, represents a fundamental test of the Standard Model (SM) and a high-sensitivity probe for New Physics in the third generation of leptons. Due to the tau’s extremely short lifetime, traditional spin-precession measurements remain inaccessible, necessitating innovative experimental strategies at high-energy colliders. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current experimental landscape, highlighting the recent paradigm shift from LEP-era constraints to the unprecedented precision reached at the LHC. We emphasize the importance of Ultra-Peripheral Heavy-Ion Collisions (UPCs), which act as a “photon-photon collider” of extreme intensity. By leveraging the $Z^4$ enhancement of the coherent photon flux in Lead–Lead ($PbPb$) interactions, these collisions provide a theoretically robust “quasi-static” environment. To interpret these developments, we first establish the general theoretical framework within the Standard Model Effective Field Theory (SMEFT). This allows us to critically compare the UPC results with the latest measurements from proton–proton collisions—including the recent CMS observation of the $\gamma \gamma \to \tau \tau$ process and the ATLAS constraints from the high-mass Drell–Yan tail—evaluating their complementarity and the challenges related to Effective Field Theory validity at the TeV scale. Finally, we outline the future prospects for $a_{\tau }$ at Belle II and the Future Circular Collider (FCC) stages. While FCC-hh in $PbPb$ mode provides a theoretically clean environment, its sensitivity remains limited to $\mathcal{O}\left({10}^{-2}\right)$. Conversely, the next generation of lepton facilities, specifically Belle II and FCC-ee, aims for the $\mathcal{O}\left({10}^{-5}\right)$ level, required to probe SM electroweak loop corrections. Long-term projections for a high-energy Muon Collider suggest a potential reach of $\mathcal{O}\left({10}^{-6}\right)$. Full article

Sixth-generation (6G) networks are expected to enable a new level of connectivity, with peak data rates reaching 1 Tbps and latencies below 0.1 ms, especially in large-scale Internet of Things (IoT) environments. Despite these advantages, the rapid increase in device density poses multiple challenges, most notably the growth in control plane signaling and the associated increase in energy consumption. These issues might significantly affect the scalability and efficiency of future networks if left unaddressed. We propose EASE-6G, an energy-aware Software-Defined Networking (SDN) framework that moves network operation from reactive to proactive and predictive, supporting ultra-dense conditions, where the number of connected devices may reach ${10}^6$ devices per square kilometer. EASE-6G uses Proactive Flow Installation to reduce the need for instant decisions. Traffic is predicted using a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model, while a signaling-aware Deep Q-Network (DQN) streamlines control, reducing unnecessary signaling while maintaining performance. Simulations in OMNeT++/Simu5G were performed to compare EASE-6G with Smart Fog Radio Access Network (SF-RAN) and Deep Q-Network-based Open Radio Access Network (DQN-ORAN). EASE-6G was found to reduce energy consumption by 36.8%, signaling overhead by 36.7%, and latency by 35.6%. The LSTM model achieved a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 4.2%. The DQN agent showed improved stability, with 22% lower variance than the baseline. These results demonstrate that the proposed predictive SDN control mechanisms improve energy efficiency and reduce overhead, delivering a practical solution for the implementation of scalable, sustainable IoT in future 6G networks. Full article

Background/Objectives: Andersen–Tawil Syndrome (ATS) is an ultra-rare autosomal dominant condition secondary to deleterious variants in KCNJ2 or KCNJ5 in the majority of patients. It is variably characterized by a triad of Long QT Syndrome (LQTS)/ventricular arrhythmias with a prominent U-wave, episodic flaccid muscle weakness/paralysis and skeletal abnormalities. Other clinical features include distinctive facial dysmorphisms, dental anomalies, and mild learning difficulties. Limited data are available regarding the initial presenting sign or symptoms of ATS. Methods: In this study, we include data from 18 patients across eight families. In our cohort, the main clues that led probands to genetic testing were syncope (three families), which was associated with dysmorphic features in one case; LQTS (one family); asymptomatic premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) (three families); and a case incidentally identified during routine cardiac evaluations and due to short stature (one family). Results: Following thorough investigations, a prolonged QT interval was detected in five individuals and prominent U-waves were observed in the majority of the court. Distinctive facial features were consistently present (100%) and can be suggested as a clinical tool for accelerated diagnosis. Skeletal manifestations ranged from 37.5% to 93.7% including short stature, scoliosis and finger defects. Only two patients showed periodic paralysis (PP). Conclusions: Regarding the clinical management of ATS, we underline the importance of the multidisciplinary, personalized, and longitudinal approach, where arrhythmia may not be the leading sign but remains the most potentially critical prognostic factor. Full article

The integration of wind energy into power systems relies on forecasting technologies to address operational challenges caused by its volatility and intermittency. This paper proposes a computing architecture for ultra-short-term wind power forecasting. The methodology integrates an adaptive dual-stage signal processing technique with an optimized deep learning model. To manage the non-stationarity of meteorological variables, the Pearson and Maximal Information Coefficient (MIC) analyses are employed for feature selection. The ICEEMDAN algorithm is then used for initial decomposition, followed by sample entropy and K-Means clustering to assess component complexity. Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD) is applied only to the high-frequency component to further separate stochastic fluctuations while preserving relatively stable trend components. A Convolutional Neural Network-Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-BiLSTM) network is constructed to forecast the resulting multi-scale components. To reduce reliance on manual empirical tuning, the Crested Porcupine Optimizer (CPO) is used to fine-tune key network hyperparameters. Evaluations using operational wind-farm data indicate that the developed hybrid method captures the temporal dynamics of wind power and yields lower prediction errors than the tested benchmark models. This research provides a data-driven computing framework for renewable-energy forecasting and related operational analysis. Full article

After prolonged development, offshore edge- and bottom-water reservoirs have entered an ultra-high water-cut stage. Under long-time multilayer commingled production conditions, accurate dynamic quantification of layer-wise production remains technically challenging, and conventional production allocation approaches often lack the accuracy required for fine-scale reservoir management. To address these challenges, this study proposes a production allocation method that integrates static reservoir properties, dynamic production performance, and pressure-based correction. The resulting layer-wise allocation provides a quantitative basis for evaluating remaining oil utilization and delineating the distribution of remaining oil across individual layers. The method is formulated on the basis of a pseudo-steady-state productivity model that incorporates wellbore imperfection effects. The initial production rate of each layer is calculated by combining reservoir transmissibility with production pressure drawdown. To account for unequal pressure responses among layers under commingled production—resulting from pressure imbalance, limited edge- and bottom-water energy support, and interlayer interference—a correction factor is introduced to adjust the effective production contribution of low-pressure layers. Compared with the PLT test results, the average error of the conventional KH method was 16.7%, whereas the average error of the proposed method was reduced to 6.1%. The average error was reduced from 16.7% to 6.1%, corresponding to a 63.5% reduction in prediction error, indicating that the proposed approach can provide a more reliable estimation of layered production contribution. The proposed method enables continuous and dynamic production allocation for commingled wells without the need for frequent surveys, offering a practical tool for identifying multilayer production imbalance, evaluating remaining potential, and supporting development optimization in offshore oilfields. Full article

In response to the current limitation where conventional constant volume combustion apparatuses are generally confined to pressure ratings of 5–20 MPa, insufficient for the demands of ultra-high-pressure combustion fundamental research, this study designs and verifies a high-pressure-resistant constant volume combustion apparatus with a rated working pressure of 250 MPa. The strength design and safety factor calculation for the combustion chamber main body were conducted based on the Lame thick-walled cylinder elastic theory. A finite element numerical simulation method was systematically employed to perform static analysis, transient impact response analysis, and high-cycle fatigue-life assessment of the key components of the apparatus. The results indicate that under a 250 MPa design internal pressure load, the maximum circumferential stress at the inner wall of the combustion chamber main body is 328.0 MPa, with a safety factor greater than 1.5, complying with relevant safety codes for high-pressure vessels. Under transient loading simulating combustion impact, the maximum equivalent stress of all structural components is below the material yield strength, with a maximum elastic deformation of less than 0.06 mm, demonstrating excellent structural stiffness and impact resistance. Fatigue assessment with a design-life target of 1.0 × 10⁶ pressure cycles shows that the cumulative damage values for all components are significantly less than 1.0, meeting the reliability requirements for long-term cyclic service. This apparatus integrates functional modules such as high-pressure precision gas mixing, high-energy reliable ignition, high-speed transient parameter acquisition, and safe product collection, providing a stable, controllable, and safe experimental platform for in-depth research on the combustion mechanisms of gaseous fuels under ultra-high-pressure conditions. Full article

Introduction: The goal of this study was to evaluate the influence of combined artificial aging protocols on the surface roughness and Vickers microhardness of bulk-fill resin composites, compared with a nanofilled composite used as a reference. Materials and Methods: A total of 120 cylindrical specimens were prepared from three bulk-fill composites (Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill, Filtek One Bulk Fill, Venus Bulk Fill) and one nanofilled composite (Filtek Supreme Ultra). Specimens were allocated into three aging conditions: mechanical wear (A), mechanical wear combined with pH-cycling (B), and mechanical wear combined with thermocycling (C). Surface roughness (Ra) and Vickers microhardness (VHN) were evaluated at two time points (T1: 120,000 cycles; T2: 240,000 cycles). Non-parametric statistical tests were applied (α = 0.05). Results: Aging protocols significantly influenced both Ra and VHN (p < 0.05). Overall, higher surface roughness and lower Vickers microhardness values were observed after cumulative aging, with material-dependent variations between T1 and T2. The greatest post-aging differences were observed under combined mechanical wear and pH-cycling (subgroup B), whereas mechanical wear alone showed the lowest changes. Filtek One Bulk Fill and Filtek Supreme Ultra showed more favorable post-aging Ra and VHN values, whereas Venus Bulk Fill showed less favorable post-aging surface properties. No significant correlation was found between Ra and VHN (rho = −0.009; p = 0.958). Conclusions: Combined aging conditions significantly affected the surface roughness and Vickers microhardness of resin composites, with the greatest post-aging differences observed under acidic challenges. Bulk-fill materials exhibit variable resistance depending on composition, emphasizing the importance of material selection for long-term clinical performance. Clinical relevance: Composite restorations exposed to combined mechanical and acidic challenges may show altered surface roughness and microhardness, highlighting the need for materials with enhanced resistance in high-risk oral environments. Full article

Brassica napus reproductive development and abiotic stress tolerance are critical for yield and quality, and characterizing key transcription factor families is vital for molecular breeding. Here, based on the B. napus cv. Darmor-bzh V5 reference genome, we systematically identified and analyzed the BnaS1fa gene family, uncovering 12 members. Their encoded proteins are mostly small, alkaline, stable, and hydrophilic, with a few having ultra-long structures. Phylogenetic analysis clustered them into three subfamilies; conserved motif and gene structure analyses revealed high overall family conservation with partial member differentiation. Promoter cis-acting element analysis showed enrichment in light, hormone, and stress-responsive elements. Chromosomal localization and intraspecific collinearity analyses indicated the family mainly derived from homologous fragment retention in A and C subgenomes. Transcriptome data demonstrated high BnaS1fa expression in late seed and silique development, with prominent heat stress responses. RT-qPCR, subcellular localization and transcriptional activity assays confirmed BnaS1fa9 and BnaS1fa10 as nuclear-localized transcription factors with heat stress-induced expression. This study elucidates BnaS1fa molecular characteristics and its potential roles in reproductive development and heat stress response, providing candidate genes for B. napus stress-resistant molecular breeding. Further functional validation of these key genes will facilitate the dissection of their precise regulatory mechanisms governing heat stress tolerance and reproductive growth, which can be ultimately applied to advance the genetic improvement of rapeseed stress resistance and yield performance. Full article