Scientific Reports[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Detection of underground objects from GPR data using a lightweight YOLO-based approach.
Arvas MM, Çınar A
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402667 · Full text
Underground object detection presents significant challenges due to the noisy nature of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data, the small scale of targets, and ground-related complexities. This study presents a task-specifi...
Underground object detection presents significant challenges due to the noisy nature of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data, the small scale of targets, and ground-related complexities. This study presents a task-specific YOLOv8n-based framework for detecting small subsurface objects in noisy GPR radargrams. The proposed model integrates GhostConv and C3Ghost modules into the architecture to reduce computational costs and enhance feature extraction capabilities. This ghost block-based structure minimizes unnecessary convolution operations, enabling more effective feature representations. The model was trained and tested on four different GPR datasets obtained from the Roboflow platform, using both individual and combined Integrated Datasets. Performance was evaluated using F1-score, mean Average Precision at IoU = 0.5 (mAP@0.5), mean Average Precision averaged over IoU thresholds from 0.5 to 0.95 (mAP@0.5:0.95), and inference time (ms/frame). Experimental results show that the proposed approach achieves improvements of up to 5.7% and 5.9% in mAP and F1 scores, respectively, on the Integrated Dataset. The findings reveal that it increases detection accuracy while reducing processing time and offers practical applicability for real-time use in non-destructive excavation and underground inspection applications.
Early systemic inflammatory-metabolic trajectory phenotypes are associated with survival outcomes in metastatic renal cell carcinoma treated with nivolumab.
Fiala O, Buchler T, Poprach A … +19 more , Kopecký J, Obertová J, Vočka M, Matějů M, Zemánková A, Spisarová M, Tkadlecová M, Priester P, Lohynská R, Grmelová L, Hrnčár M, Žák M, Chovanec M, Králíček J, Rejleková K, Stránský P, Melichar B, Palacka P, Študentová H
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402665 · Full text
Prognosis in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) treated with PD-1 blockade remains difficult to estimate early during therapy. Routine laboratory markers of systemic inflammation and metabolic stress are widely avail...
Prognosis in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) treated with PD-1 blockade remains difficult to estimate early during therapy. Routine laboratory markers of systemic inflammation and metabolic stress are widely available, yet single-marker approaches may not reflect coordinated early inflammatory-metabolic dynamics. In a multicenter real-world cohort of previously treated mRCC patients receiving nivolumab monotherapy, we applied a prespecified day-28 (1-month) landmark framework. Using baseline (BL) and month-1 (Mo1) LDH and complete blood count (CBC)-derived indices (NLR, PLR, SII) as systemic inflammatory and metabolic markers, we engineered BL, Mo1, and early relative change features (log2[Mo1/BL]), standardized them within the phenotype-eligible cohort, and derived early inflammatory-metabolic trajectory phenotypes via unsupervised k-means clustering (k = 3). Phenotypes were labeled post hoc as IM-Quiescent (P1), IM-Quiescent-to-Inflamed (P2), and IM-Inflamed-Persistent (P3). OS and PFS were analyzed from the landmark using Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox models. Durable benefit was assessed as 24-month OS (OS24) using multivariable logistic regression. The overall cohort included 498 patients; 329 were phenotype-eligible (P1 n = 142; P2 n = 69; P3 n = 118). Survival differed across phenotypes (log-rank OS p = 0.002; PFS p = 0.001). In multivariable Cox models (reference P1), P3 was associated with worse outcomes (OS HR 1.63, 95% CI 1.09-2.45; p = 0.019; PFS HR 1.92, 95% CI 1.36-2.73; p < 0.001), whereas P2 was not statistically supported versus P1 (OS HR 1.30, 95% CI 0.82-2.07; p = 0.262; PFS HR 1.21, 95% CI 0.82-1.79; p = 0.336). OS24 rates differed across phenotypes and phenotype remained associated with OS24 after covariate adjustment. Early inflammatory-metabolic trajectory phenotypes derived from routine systemic inflammatory and metabolic markers within a day-28 landmark framework were clinically interpretable and associated with OS, PFS, and durable benefit in nivolumab-treated mRCC. External validation and prospective evaluation in contemporary ICI-based regimens are warranted.
Water balance components in a dry-seeded rice-wheat system: Untangling the effects of tillage and mulching practices.
Naveen-Gupta, Balwinder-Singh, Kukal SS … +1 more , Eberbach PL
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402664 · Full text
Groundwater depletion threatens the sustainability of rice-wheat (RW) cropping systems in north-west India. Reducing evapotranspiration (ET), particularly its non-beneficial component soil evaporation (Es), is essential...
Groundwater depletion threatens the sustainability of rice-wheat (RW) cropping systems in north-west India. Reducing evapotranspiration (ET), particularly its non-beneficial component soil evaporation (Es), is essential to improve water productivity and limit groundwater decline. This study combines field measurements and APSIM modeling to quantify water balance components and ET partitioning in a dry-seeded RW system in Punjab, India, under conventional and zero tillage (CT, ZT), with and without rice straw mulch. Annual ET losses were high (1,000-1,400 mm), of which 400-500 mm occurred as Es, predominantly during the rice phase, which also dominated deep drainage. Zero tillage was often associated with lower ET but responses varied with crop growth and irrigation differences rather than a consistent tillage effect. Mulch consistently suppressed Es from wheat but had small and inconsistent effects on system-scale ET and transpiration (T). Water productivity with respect to ET and T was generally higher under ZT than CT, reflecting system-dependent management interactions rather than an intrinsic tillage advantage. These findings highlight substantial ET and deep drainage losses in flood-irrigated dry-seeded RW systems and identify rice-phase Es reduction as a key strategy for improving water sustainability.
determinants of flood impacts and adaptive capacity among market vendors in Walukuba-Masese, Jinja city, Uganda.
Kabongo I, Semakula HM, Twinomuhangi R … +2 more , Nakibuule B, Kayima P
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402662 · Full text
Market vendors play a critical role in food distribution, employment creation, and the functioning of the urban economy in Uganda, yet they operate within highly flood-prone environments. Despite their socio-economic imp...
Market vendors play a critical role in food distribution, employment creation, and the functioning of the urban economy in Uganda, yet they operate within highly flood-prone environments. Despite their socio-economic importance, there remains limited empirical understanding of the factors shaping flood impacts and the adaptive capacity of informal market vendors in such urban vulnerable contexts. This study therefore seeks to address this knowledge gap by examining the determinants of flood impacts and adaptation capacity among market vendors in Walukuba-Masese, Jinja City. A cross-sectional survey of 263 vendors was conducted using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression models. Logistic regression results showed that vendors with 5-9 years of business experience had significantly lower flood impacts (β = -1.89, p < 0.05) compared to vendors with fewer years of operation. Vendors who were not members of business associations were about 5.7 times more likely to experience flood impacts compared to those who were members. Adaptive capacity analysis revealed several significant determinants. Access to savings (β = 4.876, p < 0.001), access to credit (β = 2.616, p = 0.002), availability of storage containers (β = 2.939, p = 0.002), receipt of early warning information (β = 3.857, p < 0.001), disaster preparedness training (β = 4.097, p < 0.001), vendor association membership (β = 1.680, p = 0.002), and support from family or community during floods (β = 4.014, p < 0.001) significantly enhanced vendors' adaptive capacity. Additionally, the type of goods sold (β = 0.214, p = 0.020) and financial loss experienced during the last flood (β = 0.090, p = 0.023) were also associated with adaptive responses. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions such as improved drainage infrastructure, expanded access to financial services, disaster preparedness training, and strengthened early warning systems to enhance the resilience of informal urban enterprises and support inclusive flood risk management in Uganda's rapidly growing secondary cities.
Spatial heterogeneity of national sports specialized model school in China: an analysis of agglomeration and its causes.
Wang L, Wu Q, Wu Q … +2 more , Pang X, Wang L
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402660 · Full text
To advance educational equity, this study examines the spatial mechanisms of National Sports Specialized Model Schools (NSSMS) in Heilongjiang, China. Using a mixed-methods approach integrating GIS and fsQCA, we analyzed...
To advance educational equity, this study examines the spatial mechanisms of National Sports Specialized Model Schools (NSSMS) in Heilongjiang, China. Using a mixed-methods approach integrating GIS and fsQCA, we analyzed data from 142 NSSMS across five conditions: GDP, population, school count, sports culture, and educational expenditure. GIS revealed a unipolar agglomeration centered on Harbin with significant spatial autocorrelation (Moran's I = 0.233, p < 0.01). fsQCA identified two high-aggregation pathways: a "Comprehensive Development" path (consistency = 0.977) driven by holistic advantages, and a "Resource-Driven" path (0.812) leveraging fiscal and economic strength to offset deficits. All four low-aggregation pathways shared low educational expenditure as a necessary condition, confirming causal asymmetry. These findings demonstrate that NSSMS distribution is non-random and condition-dependent. We propose differentiated, evidence-based policies-prioritizing fiscal investment and tailored strategies for specific configurational paths-to optimize the spatial equity of educational resources.
Automatic prediction of cotton leaf's diseases using deep learning techniques.
Naeem M, Ibrahim M, Sarwar N … +4 more , Saidani O, Irshad A, Hashmi MSA, Qammar MT
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402658 · Full text
Cotton leaf diseases present a major threat to global cotton production, significantly impacting both yield and fiber quality. Traditional diagnostic methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and demand highly skilled...
Cotton leaf diseases present a major threat to global cotton production, significantly impacting both yield and fiber quality. Traditional diagnostic methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and demand highly skilled professionals, making them inefficient for large-scale agricultural applications. Although earlier deep learning -based approaches have shown promising results in identifying cotton leaf diseases such as Bacterial Blight, Fusarium Wilt, and Curl Virus Disease, their performance is often limited by complex preprocessing requirements and insufficient generalization to real-world field conditions. To address these challenges, this study proposes and optimized transfer learning-based model, CLDP-CNN, designed to enhance feature extraction and classification efficiency using pre-trained deep neural networks. This study demonstrates the development of Cotton Leaf Disease Prediction Convolutional Neural Network (CLDP-CNN) automatically, utilizing Transfer Learning (TL) which operates on meticulously prepared datasets. Two distinct datasets were used to train the model: the first consisted of field images from cotton farms, while the second was sourced from Kaggle. The main goal of this research examines how the model performs on real-world field datasets. The CLDP-CNN model has proven highly accurate by attaining 99.78% detection success rates for cotton leaf diseases when processing primary dataset which surpasses its secondary dataset accuracy rate of 99.62%. Both the primary dataset and secondary dataset resulted in high accuracy values for the VGG16 pre-trained model which achieved 99.56% accuracy on the primary dataset and 98.82% on the secondary dataset. A web-based application enhances the capabilities of the CLDP-CNN model by providing real-time updates on the health status of cotton plants. This technology empowers farmers with valuable information, enabling them to take timely protective actions to prevent potential severe yield losses in their cotton crops.
Development and validation of a green dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction-LC-MS/MS method for sotalol quantification in human plasma using central composite design optimization and pharmacokinetic application.
Serag A, Abduljabbar MH, Alosaimi ME … +4 more , Baryyan AO, Alnemari RM, Redwan FF, Almalki AH
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402657 · Full text
An LC-MS/MS method coupled with central composite design (CCD)-optimized dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) was developed and validated for sotalol quantification in human plasma according to ICH M10 guidel...
An LC-MS/MS method coupled with central composite design (CCD)-optimized dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) was developed and validated for sotalol quantification in human plasma according to ICH M10 guidelines. CCD with response surface methodology systematically evaluated four DLLME parameters - disperser solvent volume, extraction solvent volume, sample pH, and centrifugation time - identifying extraction solvent volume, pH, and disperser volume as dominant factors governing extraction efficiency. Optimal conditions of disperser volume 1200 µL, extraction solvent 300 µL, pH 10.0, and centrifugation time 3 min yielded predicted recovery of 95.29%, experimentally confirmed at 99-103%, with organic solvent consumption of 1.5 mL per sample representing a reduction compared to conventional SPE and LLE approaches. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Poroshell 120 EC-C18 column (100 × 2.1 mm, 2.7 μm) with 4-min isocratic elution, and quantification employed MRM transitions m/z 273.1→255.1 for sotalol and m/z 267.2→145.1 for atenolol internal standard in positive ESI mode. The method demonstrated excellent linearity (1-1200 ng/mL, r² = 0.9994), sensitivity (LLOQ 1 ng/mL), acceptable accuracy and precision, and comprehensive stability under multiple storage conditions, in full compliance with ICH M10 acceptance criteria. Preliminary pharmacokinetic application in healthy volunteers following single oral 80 mg sotalol administration yielded C 701 ± 53.8 ng/mL, t 10.1 ± 1.0 h, and AUC 11,713 ± 1,345 ng·h/mL, broadly consistent with published literature values, supporting method applicability for therapeutic drug monitoring. Multi-metric sustainability assessment encompassing AGSA-prep (64/100), AGSA (65.28/100), CaFRI (69/100), BAGI (75.0/100), CACI (69/100), AMRI (71/100), and WECA (81%) demonstrated improved environmental performance relative to conventional extraction approaches, providing comprehensive sustainability characterization of the developed method.
Effect of unilateral intrathecal prilocaine-fentanyl versus bupivacaine-fentanyl on postoperative spontaneous voiding in ambulatory male patients undergoing inguinal hernioplasty: a randomized double-blinded comparative study.
Mohamed MAE, Helmy MA, Hashem OMEA … +4 more , Shash AM, Osman ES, Mohamed AE, Taha MMR
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402656 · Full text
Ambulatory inguinal hernia repair requires anesthetic techniques that provide reliable intraoperative analgesia while facilitating rapid recovery and timely discharge. Postoperative spontaneous voiding is a critical dete...
Ambulatory inguinal hernia repair requires anesthetic techniques that provide reliable intraoperative analgesia while facilitating rapid recovery and timely discharge. Postoperative spontaneous voiding is a critical determinant of discharge readiness. This study compared unilateral intrathecal prilocaine-fentanyl with bupivacaine-fentanyl in male patients undergoing elective inguinal hernioplasty. In this randomized comparative trial, 70 male patients (ASA I-II, aged 18-60 years) scheduled for elective unilateral inguinal hernia repair were allocated to receive either intrathecal prilocaine 40 mg plus fentanyl 25 µg (Pr‑F group, n = 35) or bupivacaine 7.5 mg plus fentanyl 25 µg (Bu‑F group, n = 35). Blocks were performed unilaterally with patients maintained in the lateral decubitus position for 15 min. The primary outcome was time to first spontaneous voiding. Secondary outcomes included block characteristics, recovery parameters, pain scores, rescue analgesia, discharge readiness (Modified Post-Anesthesia Discharge Scoring System ≥ 9), and adverse events. Baseline demographics and intraoperative hemodynamics were comparable between groups. The Pr‑F group demonstrated significantly shorter time to first spontaneous voiding (213 ± 27 vs. 307 ± 22 min, p < 0.001). Motor and sensory regression times were also shorter with prilocaine (98 ± 11 vs. 187 ± 19 min; 120 ± 11 vs. 209 ± 23 min, respectively; p < 0.001). Time to achieve Modified Post-Anesthesia Discharge Scoring System ≥ 9 was reduced in the Pr‑F group (97 ± 11 vs. 187 ± 19 min, p < 0.001). Pain scores were higher with prilocaine, and rescue analgesia was required more frequently (34% vs. 11%, p = 0.023). Kaplan-Meier analysis confirmed earlier voiding in the Pr‑F group (log‑rank χ²=82.85, p < 0.0001). Adverse events, including pruritus, shivering, urinary retention, and transient neurological symptoms, were infrequent and comparable between groups. Unilateral intrathecal prilocaine-fentanyl provided faster recovery of sensory and motor function, earlier spontaneous voiding, and shorter discharge times compared with bupivacaine-fentanyl in male patients undergoing ambulatory inguinal hernia repair. Both regimens were safe, but prilocaine-fentanyl offers distinct advantages for fast‑track hernia surgery. Larger multicenter studies are warranted to confirm these findings across broader patient populations. Trial registration: The study was registered retrospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT07262398) on 14/11/2025.
Impact of standardized interdisciplinary nursing protocols on clinical outcomes in neurosurgical patients undergoing craniomaxillofacial reconstruction: a multicenter retrospective study.
Chen Y, Liu X, Lei J … +3 more , Richard SA, Lin H, Lan Z
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402655 · Full text
Craniomaxillofacial (CMF) reconstruction is interdisciplinary, requiring precise coordination between neurosurgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and nursing teams. Despite its importance, standardized interdisciplin...
Craniomaxillofacial (CMF) reconstruction is interdisciplinary, requiring precise coordination between neurosurgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and nursing teams. Despite its importance, standardized interdisciplinary nursing protocols for neurosurgical patients undergoing CMF reconstruction are lacking, leading to variable care quality and increased complications. This study aimed to evaluate the association between standardized interdisciplinary nursing protocols and clinical outcomes in this patient population. This study aimed to evaluate adherence to interdisciplinary nursing procedures, identify nursing-related risk factors, and explore the association between standardized protocols and clinical outcomes. This multicenter retrospective pre-test/post-test study included 152 patients from five tertiary hospitals treated between 2018 and 2023. Patients were divided into a pre-optimization group (n = 76) and a post-optimization group (n = 76). We applied propensity score matching (1:1 nearest-neighbor, caliper 0.2 SD) to balance baseline characteristics and multilevel mixed-effects models to account for center-level clustering. Data on neurosurgical nursing records such as postoperative infection prevention, position management, swallowing function assessment via Kubota Drinking Test, oral and maxillofacial prosthodontic nursing records, and clinical outcomes were extracted and analyzed. The overall compliance rate for interdisciplinary nursing was associated with significant improvement in the post-optimization group compared to the pre-optimization group (81.6% vs. 42.1%, p < 0.001; Cohen's h = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.52-1.08). In propensity score-matched analyses (n = 128), standardized protocols remained associated with reduced implant-related infections (OR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.16-0.91, p = 0.031) and shorter swallowing recovery (mean difference = -4.6 days, 95% CI: -7.8 to -1.4, p = 0.006; Cohen's d = 1.69). In the full cohort, standardized protocols were associated with direction-consistent reductions in implant-related infections (18.4% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.029; Bonferroni-adjusted p = 0.232) and swallowing function recovery (14.2 ± 3.1 days vs. 9.1 ± 2.5 days, p = 0.012; Bonferroni-adjusted p = 0.096). In continuous compliance analysis, each 10% increase in protocol adherence was associated with a 24% reduction in infection risk (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.65-0.89, p < 0.001) and a 0.58-day reduction in swallowing recovery time (p < 0.001). Patient satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the post-optimization group (4.2 ± 0.5 vs. 3.5 ± 0.7, p = 0.001), which survived Bonferroni correction (adjusted alpha = 0.00625). Multivariate analysis identified non-compliance with oral care (OR = 3.26), delayed rehabilitation training (OR = 2.89), and lack of specialized nurse training (OR = 2.54) as independent factors associated with infections. Six Sigma optimization further improved prosthetic cleaning stability and reduced process defects by 72.3%. Standardized interdisciplinary nursing protocols were associated with improved procedure compliance and enhanced patient satisfaction, which survived correction for multiple comparisons. Direction-consistent but statistically exploratory associations were observed for reduced implant-related infections and accelerated swallowing recovery. While the retrospective design limits causal inference, these findings provide a foundation for developing interdisciplinary nursing guidelines and inform future prospective research in this complex patient population.
Assessing iatrogenic atrial septal defect as a primary unloading strategy in acute myocardial infarction using computational and swine model.
Aliev E, Shtraikh S, Horesh A … +11 more , Wagnert-Avraham L, Kessler A, Karameh M, Dagan G, Kolben Y, Abd-Rbo K, Planer D, Elbaz-Greener G, Golomb M, Amir O, Nachman D
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402654 · Full text
Primary-unloading of the left ventricle in Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) may reduce infarct size and resultant heart-failure occurrence. Existing methods, such as percutaneous axial flow pumps, pose cost and complica...
Primary-unloading of the left ventricle in Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) may reduce infarct size and resultant heart-failure occurrence. Existing methods, such as percutaneous axial flow pumps, pose cost and complication challenges. Hemodynamic parameters from AMI patients in published cohorts were applied in a real-time cardiovascular computer-model simulating AMI. Hemodynamic changes were tracked after induction of 2.5-12.5 mm Iatrogenic Atrial-Septal Defect (iASD). Subsequently, in-vivo evaluation in swine was performed by inducing AMI using percutaneous-balloon occlusion of the left coronary system. A 7.5 mm iASD was created via transeptal balloon septostomy, repeatedly opened, and occluded, while advanced hemodynamic parameters were monitored. The computer simulation demonstrated a decrease in mean(± SEM) pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) of 8.05 ± 0.7 mmHg from a baseline to iASD (21.2 ± 8.3 vs. 13.2 ± 4.2 mmHg, p < 0.001), reaching a maximum reduction of 8.05 ± 1.04at 7.5 mm (13.2 ± 3.9 mmHg). Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) was reduced from baseline compared to iASD intervention (94.7 ± 14.8 vs. 84.4 ± 13.6 mmHg, p < 0.001) with no difference between iASD sizes. The cardiac output (CO) was reduced by a mean(± SEM) 0.46 ± 0.15 L/min from baseline compared to mean iASD interventions (4.05 ± 1.28 vs. 3.59 ± 1.16 L/min, p = 0.001). In the swine model, 60 measurements were taken. The mean(± SEM) PCWP was increased by 7.23 ± 1.0 from baseline during coronary obstruction (14.72 ± 1.6 vs. 21.95 ± 3.9 mmHg, p < 0.01) and decreased by 4.85 ± 1.1 with the iASD (17.1 ± 2.7 mmHg, p = 0.039). The iASD didn't cause hemodynamic compromise, as there was no reduction in MAP (43.6 ± 13.5 vs. 48.3 ± 12.0 mmHg, p > 0.99) or CO (2.6 ± 0.5 vs. 2.3 ± 0.2 L/min, p > 0.99) compared to coronary obstruction without iASD. In conclusion, iASD unloaded the left ventricle in AMI without causing immediate hemodynamic compromise in this preliminary study. These findings highlight the potential of iASD as a feasible primary-unloading method that warrants further investigation regarding its safety and cost-effectiveness.
Microscopic pore structure evolution and mechanical performance mechanism of CICA-modified high-performance concrete: optimization for crack resistance and freeze-thaw durability.
Li W
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402652 · Full text
High-performance concrete (HPC) is prone to early-age cracking due to its low water-to-binder ratio and high autogenous shrinkage, which compromises its durability and service life. Internal curing technology is regarded...
High-performance concrete (HPC) is prone to early-age cracking due to its low water-to-binder ratio and high autogenous shrinkage, which compromises its durability and service life. Internal curing technology is regarded as a key approach to address this issue; however, the design and application conditions of its core materials lack systematic investigation. To this end, this study systematically investigates the influence of a novel internal curing material, CICA, on the performance of HPC. Through experiments on mechanical properties, early-age crack resistance, freeze-thaw resistance, and pore size distribution, this paper aims to elucidate the mechanism of CICA and determine its optimal application conditions, thereby providing theoretical and experimental support for the precise regulation of internal curing technology. The results show that there is a good linear relationship between compressive strength and the dosage of internal curing material, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.9 in all cases. Compressive strength decreases with increasing internal curing material dosage; notably, CICA causes less degradation in later-age strength, whereas SAP and LWA significantly reduce concrete strength. CICA improves the elastic modulus, and the modulus increases with higher CICA dosage. The internal relative humidity (RH) of all groups shows a decreasing trend with increasing curing age, but the rate of decrease is strongly correlated with the type and dosage of internal curing materials. The rate of RH decrease for CICA is significantly slower than that of the control, SAP, and LWA groups. The plastic cracking inhibition capacity of the three internal curing materials ranks as CICA > lightweight aggregate > SAP, with the 2% CICA dosage presenting the optimal hydration promotion effect. As the number of freeze-thaw cycles increases, the relative dynamic elastic modulus of CICA internally cured concrete decreases for all dosages. The durability index also decreases with increasing CICA dosage. Moreover, the particle size distribution of CICA significantly affects the relative dynamic elastic modulus and durability index. Within the 0-500 μm range, the durability index increases with particle size, while beyond 500 μm it decreases, indicating a detrimental effect on freeze-thaw resistance. CICA shifts the pore size distribution curve of concrete to the left (compared with the reference concrete), which is similar to the trend observed for SAP. As the CICA dosage increases, the peak porosity first decreases and then increases. For large pores (> 5000 nm) and macropores (100-5000 nm), pore content exhibits a clear U-shaped trend with increasing strength, decreasing initially before rising again, with high coefficients of determination. The content of nanopores (< 10 nm) remains nearly constant across the strength range, showing an excellent fit to the quadratic model (R = 0.9336). In summary, CICA outperforms SAP and lightweight aggregate in balancing mechanical properties, crack resistance, and freeze-thaw durability. The optimal application condition is 2% CICA dosage with particle size below 500 μm. These findings establish a basis for precise internal curing design to mitigate early cracking and extend the service life of high-performance concrete.
Green HPTLC-densitometry for simultaneous determination of antibiotic residues in milk with greenness assessment and application to real samples.
Hammad SF, Abozeid RA, Elagamy SH
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402651 · Full text
A validated HPTLC densitometric approach was employed for the simultaneous determination of Cefazolin (CFZ), Sulfadimidine (SDD), and Marbofloxacin (MFC) residues in milk. The method utilizes a mobile phase composed of e...
A validated HPTLC densitometric approach was employed for the simultaneous determination of Cefazolin (CFZ), Sulfadimidine (SDD), and Marbofloxacin (MFC) residues in milk. The method utilizes a mobile phase composed of ethyl acetate, methanol, and triethylamine in a 50:30:1 v/v/v ratio, with detection carried out at 270 nm. The chromatographic conditions were carefully optimized, and the retardation factor (R) values for CFZ, MFC, and SDD were 0.29, 0.58, and 0.73, respectively. Sample preparation included protein precipitation with acetonitrile, followed by dispersive solid-phase extraction (dSPE) using Enhanced Matrix Removal-Lipid (EMR-L) tubes to remove interfering lipids. Validation in accordance with ICH Q2(R2) guidelines demonstrated excellent linearity for all analytes over the concentration range of 0.001-0.09 µg/band. Accuracy was confirmed by recovery values between 98.19% and 99.15%. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of the investigated drug residues in real cattle milk samples following the withdrawal period, showing no statistically significant differences in accuracy and precision compared to previously reported HPLC method. Furthermore, sustainability evaluation using multiple greenness assessment tools (Eco-scale score of 77, AGSA score of 75%, BAGI score of 77.5, and RGB12 score of 85.2) demonstrated that the method is excellent green.
Design of a cost-effective hybrid-magnet multi-flux barrier IPM motor for rare-earth usage reduction in electric vehicles.
Khonongbua K, Khunkitti P, Siritaratiwat A … +1 more , Seangwong P
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402650 · Full text
This paper introduces a cost-effective hybrid-magnet multi-flux barrier interior permanent magnet motor for electric vehicle applications. The design combines partial ferrite PM substitution with a multi-flux barrier rot...
This paper introduces a cost-effective hybrid-magnet multi-flux barrier interior permanent magnet motor for electric vehicle applications. The design combines partial ferrite PM substitution with a multi-flux barrier rotor to compensate for the magnetic flux reduction that occurs when reducing rare-earth permanent magnet (REPM) usage, while keeping the total magnet volume unchanged. Rotor design variables are optimized using a multi-objective genetic algorithm with sensitivity-based constraints. Compared with the benchmark design, the optimized motor maintains back-electromotive force and electromagnetic torque levels, with a slight reduction in torque ripple. An approximately 11% reduction in REPM usage, together with a 7.14% reduction in total material cost, yields a corresponding 7.43% improvement in torque per cost performance, reflecting the cost advantage enabled by the hybrid-magnet multi-flux barrier configuration. Furthermore, efficiency map evaluation shows that the proposed motor sustains efficiency comparable to the benchmark. Mechanical stress analysis confirms that rotor stress remains below the elastic limit, and demagnetization analysis verifies the magnetic robustness of both REPM and ferrite PM segments. The findings highlight the feasibility of combining hybrid-magnet and multi-flux barrier configurations for further advancements in cost-effective IPM motors.
Phytochemical profiling and systemic organoprotection of Tridax procumbens against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Funmilola AR, Opeyemi AM, Abdullahi AM … +3 more , Shamsudeen P, Braimah YH, Abdulkadir B
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402649 · Full text
Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury triggers a systemic inflammatory response and a catastrophic respiratory burst of reactive oxygen species, resulting in widespread multi-organ damage. This study evaluated the p...
Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury triggers a systemic inflammatory response and a catastrophic respiratory burst of reactive oxygen species, resulting in widespread multi-organ damage. This study evaluated the phytochemical profile of Tridax procumbens ethanol extract (TP) and validated its multi-target, systemic organoprotective efficacy against cerebral I/R-induced cardiohepatorenal oxidative injury. TP constituents were identified using LC-MS profiling. Its in-vitro antioxidant metrics were quantified via DPPH, reducing power, and HO scavenging assays. For in-vivo assessment, Wistar rats were subjected to 30 min of global cerebral ischemia via bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO), followed by reperfusion. TP (20-80 mg/kg, i.p.) and quercetin (20 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered immediately at reperfusion. After 24 h, malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were mapped across the heart, liver, and kidneys, alongside brain histopathology. LC-MS profiling identified 10 major phenolics and flavonoids, notably luteolin (37.32%), kaempferol (21.41%), and resveratrol (14.65%). In vitro, TP demonstrated significant antioxidant prowess, achieving 56.8% DPPH inhibition (50 µg/mL) and 86.98% HO scavenging (10 µg/mL). In vivo, BCCAO caused severe cerebral injury and a systemic surge in lipid peroxidation paired with systemic GSH depletion. TP treatment significantly (P < 0.05) minimized multi-organ MDA accumulation, dose-dependently restored endogenous GSH pools across all harvested peripheral tissues, and preserved neuro-architectural integrity while reversing cerebral necrosis. TP exerts powerful multi-systemic protection by mitigating distant-organ oxidative bankruptcy and neuro-structural collapse, showcasing its potential as a natural therapeutic compound for complex vascular injuries.
Effects of spent coffee grounds as partial soil replacement on the strength, stiffness, and microstructure of foamed lightweight soil.
Lee YL, Chan KX, Chong SY … +3 more , Lim SK, Tan OK, Lim MH
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402648 · Full text
Foamed lightweight soil (FLS) is a cement-based lightweight material valued for its low density and ease of placement. This study investigates the combined effects of water content and spent coffee grounds (SCG) as a par...
Foamed lightweight soil (FLS) is a cement-based lightweight material valued for its low density and ease of placement. This study investigates the combined effects of water content and spent coffee grounds (SCG) as a partial soil replacement on the engineering properties of FLS. Mixes were prepared with water-cement (w/c) ratios of 0.6 and 0.8 and SCG replacement levels of 0 to 3% by equivalent volume of the dry soil fraction. Physical and mechanical properties were evaluated through density measurements, unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests, stress-strain behavior, secant modulus (E₅₀), and microstructural observations using SEM-EDX. All mixes achieved fresh densities within the target range of 950-1050 kg/m³. Increasing the w/c ratio from 0.6 to 0.8 improved strength and stiffness, with 60-day UCS increasing from 355 kN/m² to 417 kN/m² and E₅₀ from approximately 9422 kN/m² to 10,036 kN/m². The inclusion of up to 3% SCG further enhanced UCS and stiffness within the investigated range. SEM-EDX observations indicated a hydrated cementitious matrix containing Ca-, Si-, O-, Al-, and S-rich regions. However, the identification of specific hydration products was treated as morphology and element-based inference because EDX alone cannot provide definitive phase confirmation. The mix with 0.8 w/c and 3% SCG showed the best performance among the tested mixtures, demonstrating the potential feasibility of SCG as a low-dosage waste-derived modifier for FLS.
Low-carbon methane pyrolysis for flexible energy-water-power-carbon management under variable demands.
Kazi MK, Eljack F, Haouari M
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402647 · Full text
Decarbonizing energy systems requires solutions that can deliver clean fuels, reliable power and water security while reducing emissions and infrastructure complexity. Current hydrogen pathways remain constrained by fres...
Decarbonizing energy systems requires solutions that can deliver clean fuels, reliable power and water security while reducing emissions and infrastructure complexity. Current hydrogen pathways remain constrained by freshwater demand, intermittent energy supply and carbon emissions. Here we present an integrated Quad-generation (Quad-gen) methane pyrolysis system innovation that simultaneously produces low-carbon hydrogen, electricity, freshwater and solid carbon materials within a single thermochemically self-sustained solution. By coupling catalytic methane pyrolysis with hydrogen-driven heat recovery and cogeneration, the process operates with minimal external energy input and adapts to variable demand. System analysis confirms feasibility across practical operating conditions while enabling simultaneous multi-utility outputs. Because the platform can prioritize hydrogen, power or freshwater depending on regional needs, it offers a modular pathway for methane-rich regions, water-stressed environments and decentralized industrial or urban energy systems. This integrated energy-water-carbon approach provides a scalable route toward resilient, low-carbon infrastructure.
Acridocarpus orientalis ethanolic extract induces senescence and abortive autophagy in human breast cancer cells.
Altabbal S, Hussein S, Iratni R … +1 more , Al Dhaheri Y
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402646 · Full text
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), which lacks the expression of the hormonal Estrogen Receptor (ER) and Progesterone Receptor (PR), amplificat...
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), which lacks the expression of the hormonal Estrogen Receptor (ER) and Progesterone Receptor (PR), amplification of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2), is not responsive to the hormonal therapy. Currently, available chemotherapy and radiotherapy cause severe side effects; therefore, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic choices for TNBC. Acridocarpus orientalis is used in folk medicine to treat several health conditions. Here, evaluated the anti-cancer activity of Acriodocarpus orientalis Ethanolic Extract (AOEE) against two TNBC (MDA-MB-231 and Hs578T) and one luminal A (MCF-7) cell lines, and investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying its anticancer activity. The results revealed that AOEE inhibited cell proliferation of the three cell lines in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The anti-proliferative effect of AOEE was found to be concomitant with the induction of cell cycle arrest at the G1/S phase. These changes were associated with upregulation of p21 and p27 , downregulation of PCNA, Cyclin D1, phospho-Rb. Moreover, AOEE induces abortive autophagy through upregulation of autophagy related proteins LC3-II, Beclin-1, and p62. Also, p16-dependent senescence was induced in AOEE treated MDA-MB-231 cells confirmed by senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) expression in the treated cells. AOEE induced activation of ERK and p38 pathways, which might be involved in autophagy and senescence induction. Acridocarpus orientalis could be a potential source for novel chemotherapeutic agents against TNBC.
Ligand selectivity and competitive adsorption of heavy metals using beta cyclodextrin-based metal organic framework and crosslinked polymers.
Ahmadi P, Ahmadi A, Tabibiazar M … +3 more , Hamidi S, Afshar Mogaddam MR, Ramezani S
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402645 · Full text
Considering the significant threats posed by heavy metals (HMs) to ecosystems and public health, the aim of the current study was the synthesis and characterization of β-cyclodextrin-based adsorbents, including citric ac...
Considering the significant threats posed by heavy metals (HMs) to ecosystems and public health, the aim of the current study was the synthesis and characterization of β-cyclodextrin-based adsorbents, including citric acid crosslinked βCD (CA-βCD), adipic acid crosslinked βCD (AA-βCD), and βCD-based metal-organic framework (βCD-MOF), and evaluation of their efficacy in the removal of Pb, Cd, and Cu ions. The synthesized polymers were analyzed by FTIR, XRD, SEM, BET, and zeta potential methods to assess their structural, morphological, and surface characteristics. In the multicomponent system (adsorbent dosage 1 g/L, initial metal concentration 100 mg/L, pH 6.0 at 25℃), βCD-MOF exhibited the highest removal efficiency, particularly for Cu (~ 80%), followed by Pb (~ 40%) and Cd (~ 20%), outperforming AA-βCD and CA-βCD. The preferential adsorption of copper is attributed to its smaller ionic radius and higher charge density, which enhance electrostatic interactions with polymer ligands. Single-component experiments using βCD-MOF (as optimal adsorbent, 3 g/L) revealed excellent removal efficiencies, Cd: 99.93%, Pb: 97.02%, Cu: 96.30%. Interestingly, while Cd was most efficiently removed alone, despite its larger hydrated radius and higher pKa, competitive adsorption favored Cu, indicating ligand selectivity shifts under mixed conditions. Equilibrium data were best fitted by the Langmuir model, with maximum single-state adsorption capacities of 142.85, 136.99, and 120.48 mg/g for Cd, Pb, and Cu, respectively. The results of real water treatments demonstrated positive relationship between water hardness and Cd removal efficiency using βCD-MOF adsorbents. These findings highlighted the role of βCD-MOF as a promising candidate for scalable water purification technologies.
BSA-curcumin nanoparticles selectively target breast cancer cells and reprogram the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in vitro.
Asakere S, Zahedi AM, Heydari S … +4 more , Matloubi Z, Nosratabadi R, Khalilabadi RM, Langroudi L
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402643 · Full text
Curcumin has potent anticancer properties but poor bioavailability. Nanoparticle delivery systems, particularly those based on albumin, offer a promising strategy to overcome this limitation. We developed bovine serum al...
Curcumin has potent anticancer properties but poor bioavailability. Nanoparticle delivery systems, particularly those based on albumin, offer a promising strategy to overcome this limitation. We developed bovine serum albumin-curcumin nanoparticles (BC-NPs) to enhance curcumin delivery and investigate their selective cytotoxicity and immunomodulatory effects in breast cancer.BC-NPs were synthesized via desolvation and characterized (FTIR, DLS, SEM). We assessed cytotoxicity (MTT assay), apoptosis (Annexin V/PI), and migration (wound healing) in MCF-7 (cancer) and MCF-10 A (normal) breast cell lines. We co-cultured treated cells with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to evaluate effects on PBMC cell cycle and cytokine secretion (IFN-γ, TGF-β, IL-10) via flow cytometry and ELISA. Antioxidant status (TAC, GPx, MDA) and VEGF levels were also measured. BC-NPs exhibited a size of 133 ± 7 nm, a zeta potential of -43.9 mV, and high encapsulation efficiency (76.7%). Specifically, BC-NPs achieved an IC₅₀ of 14.53 µM in MCF-7 cells at 48 h - approximately half that of free curcumin (27.81 µM) - while maintaining significantly higher IC₅₀ values in normal MCF-10 A cells (195 µM), demonstrating a favorable therapeutic index. BC-NPs induced 44.0 ± 2.14% apoptosis in MCF-7 cells versus 8.42 ± 1.9% for free curcumin at the same concentration. At the immunological level, BC-NP treatment in the MCF-7 co-culture model significantly reduced TGF-β (p-value = 0.0007) and IL-10 (p-value = 0.01) while increasing IFN-γ production (p-value = 0.001), collectively remodeling the tumor microenvironment toward an antitumor immune phenotype. In co-culture, BC-NPs induced G0/G1 arrest in PBMCs and fostered an antitumor immune profile: decreasing immunosuppressive cytokines (TGF-β, IL-10) and increasing IFN-γ production. BC-NPs significantly enhance the therapeutic profile of curcumin by improving its bioavailability and conferring selective toxicity against breast cancer cells. Taken together, these data provide strong preclinical rationale for advancing BC-NPs into in vivo efficacy and safety studies, with particular attention to optimizing biodistribution and evaluating synergy with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Economic development and emotional well-being: longitudinal evidence from 33 European countries.
Fors Connolly F, Hjerm M, Gärling T
Sci Rep · 2026 Jul · PMID 42402642 · Full text
The relationship between economic development and emotional well-being is less well understood than the corresponding relationship with life satisfaction, partly because prior cross-national studies have often relied on...
The relationship between economic development and emotional well-being is less well understood than the corresponding relationship with life satisfaction, partly because prior cross-national studies have often relied on brief dichotomous affect measures. Using four waves of the European Social Survey (2006, 2012, 2014, and 2023), we aggregated responses from 177,948 respondents in 33 countries to 97 country-round observations and linked these observations to real GDP per capita. We found strong positive associations between GDP and both emotional well-being and life satisfaction across countries. Longitudinal mixed models showed positive associations between GDP and both well-being components over time. Supplementary checks using separate affect components, quadratic GDP specifications, demographic-composition controls, contextual adjustment for social trust and income inequality, attenuation models with perceived income adequacy and unemployment, and growth-versus-decline tests broadly supported this pattern. Overall, the findings challenge previous conclusions that economic development is only weakly related to affect. When emotional well-being is measured with graded content-valid affect items, it shows a clear positive relationship with both GDP levels and changes in GDP.
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