Search Results (253,223)

This study transformed discarded courgette biomass into biochar (BC) via pyrolysis at 500 °C and employed it as an activator of potassium periodate (PI) for atrazine (ATZ) degradation. Characterization analyses confirmed that the synthesized BC possessed a porous structure, a high carbon content (76.13%), crystalline SiO₂, KCl, and CaCO₃ phases, as well as abundant oxygen-containing functional groups (–OH, C=O, C=C, –COOH), which are favorable for catalytic activation. The point of zero charge of 4.25 indicates that the BC surface carries a suitable charge distribution, promoting effective electrostatic interactions under near-neutral pH conditions. Under optimal operating conditions (neutral pH, [ATZ]_o = 7.3 mg/L, [PI]_o = 2.7 mM, [BC]_o = 0.55 g/L, and 25 ± 0.5 °C), the system achieved 99.35% ATZ removal (first-order kinetic rate constant = 0.0601 min⁻¹) and 64.23% TOC mineralization within 60 min. Quenching tests confirmed iodate radicals and singlet oxygen as the primary species, with hydroxyl and superoxide radicals playing secondary roles. The proposed mechanism suggests that electron transfer from oxygen-containing groups on the BC surface activates PI, leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species that facilitate ATZ degradation via synergistic radical and non-radical pathways. The BC catalyst exhibited strong recyclability, with only ~9% efficiency loss after five cycles. The BC/PI system also demonstrated high removal of tetracycline (79.54%) and bisphenol A (85.6%) within 60 min and complete Congo red dye degradation in just 30 min. Application to real industrial wastewater achieved 72.77% ATZ removal, 53.02% mineralization, and a treatment cost of 1.2173 $/m³, demonstrating the practicality and scalability of the BC/PI system for sustainable advanced wastewater treatment. Full article

Background: Anemia is frequent in critically ill patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and worsens neurological outcomes. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is a cornerstone of management, but storage-related biochemical and structural changes may impair oxygen delivery. This study examined the effect of storage duration on osmotic fragility (OF) and free hemoglobin (fHb) in leukodepleted packed RBCs (pRBCs) as indicators of membrane stability and hemolysis. Methods: Twenty-four leukodepleted pRBC units in SAGM (saline, adenine, glucose, and mannitol) solution were analyzed from Day 3 to Day 42. OF was assessed by Beutler’s method with H50 values derived from logistic models, and fHb was quantified spectrophotometrically. Flow cytometry with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-induced osmotic stress provided complementary OF data. Results: OF increased significantly beyond 28 days, with Week 6 H₅₀ values exceeding those at Weeks 2 and 4 (p < 0.0001). fHb rose progressively with storage: 7.3 ± 4.3 µmol/L (Week 2), 14.6 ± 7.9 (Week 4), and 25.7 ± 12.1 (Week 6) (p < 0.0001). Hemolysis remained below the 0.8% threshold but increased from 0.09% to 0.29% (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: pRBC storage beyond 28 days leads to greater OF and fHb release, reflecting reduced membrane stability. These changes may compromise transfusion efficacy and oxygen delivery in neurocritical care. Full article

Background: This study, designed by the Greek Research Alliance for the Study of Headache and Pain (GRASP), sought to prospectively examine whether the treatment with two consecutive OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNTA) cycles might improve the frequency and severity of chronic migraine (CM) with comorbid bruxism. We also explored whether the potential BoNTA-related alleviation of bruxism can directly influence the improvements in migraine efficacy outcomes. Methods: A total of 58 CM patients with comorbid bruxism at baseline, attaining two consecutive (quarterly given) BoNTA cycles, were studied. The changes in bruxism-related pain were assessed with the 0–10 numeric scale PI-NRS. Bruxism was clinically diagnosed using the self-report Bruxscreen-Q questionnaire. Any phenotypic changes in bruxism, according to Bruxscreen-Q, from baseline (T0) to the last efficacy evaluation follow-up (T1), were analyzed and then compared. Migraine-related efficacy and disability outcomes, mostly mean headache days (MHD), were also compared between T0 and T1. Results: BoNTA exerted significant improvements in bruxism-related pain, with PI-NRS median scores being significantly reduced from 7 at T0 to 3 at T1 (p < 0.001). The rates of masseter hypertrophy at T1 significantly dropped, compared to T0 (chi-square: 16; p < 0.001). Patients also self-reported significant improvements in the Bruxscreen-Q items at T1, compared to T0. At T1, 41/58 (70.7%) patients responded to BoNTA. The significant decrease in MHD frequency at T1 was positively correlated with improvements in bruxism-related pain severity (Pearson’s correlation: 0.710; p < 0.001). Conclusions: BoNTA exerts dual beneficial effects towards both the reduction of migraine frequency and the alleviation of bruxism-related pain and disability. Both of these effects seem closely interrelated in our study. Full article

Background: Little is known about morbidity patterns and healthcare utilization among specific Hajj pilgrim groups. This study examined influenza vaccination coverage, disease spectrum and healthcare utilization outcomes among Sudanese pilgrims during Hajj 2025. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using de-identified patient records from the Saudi Health Electronic Surveillance Network for Sudanese Hajj pilgrims in 1–9 June 2025. Data included demographics, influenza vaccination status, healthcare utilization metrics, morbidities and temporal distribution of visits. Comparisons between hospital and primary healthcare center (PHC) attendees were performed using appropriate statistical tests. Results: A total of 1130 pilgrims sought care, with 88.6% (n = 1001) attending PHCs and 11.4% (n = 129) hospitals. Their mean age was 49.7 ± 12.9 years, and 67.9% (n = 767) were male. Influenza vaccination coverage was 79% (893/1130); vaccinated pilgrims had lower incidence of influenza-like illness (ILI) compared to unvaccinated pilgrims (5.2% vs. 15.2%, p < 0.01). Respiratory illnesses were the most frequent diagnoses (40.8% in PHCs and 24.8% in hospitals), followed by musculoskeletal disorders (24.5% and 16.3%, respectively). Compared to PHCs, presentation rate for chronic diseases was higher in hospitals (19.4% vs. 8.7%, p < 0.001), so was the median clinic time (14.1 vs. 8.6 min, p < 0.001). Healthcare utilization peaked on days 3–5 coinciding with the ‘Arafat Day’. Conclusions: Sudanese pilgrims most commonly presented with acute respiratory conditions, with PHCs managing the majority of cases, and influenza vaccination was protective against ILI. Findings emphasize the need for strong primary care, efficient resource allocation, and targeted preventive strategies to safeguard pilgrims’ health in the future. Full article

This work reports the controlled synthesis and characterization of nanoenergetic composites composed of porous silicon (PS) impregnated with sodium perchlorate (NaClO₄) for precision energy-release applications. PS films were fabricated by electrochemical anodization of p-type silicon (10–20 Ω·cm), with systematic variation in current density (50–200 mA cm⁻²) and anodization time (10–25 min) to tailor pore morphology. The energetic behavior of the composites was evaluated through thermal ignition tests, optical emission spectroscopy (300–1000 nm), acoustic analysis (0–500 Hz), and high-speed imaging. Optimal energy release was obtained for PS films anodized at 100 mA cm⁻² for 15–20 min, attributed to their hierarchical pore architecture that facilitated complete oxidant infiltration. Overall, this work provides additional insights beyond previous reports by correlating the explosive efficiency with both anodization time—linked to PS film thickness—and current density—associated with porosity. A portable multispectral optical system with fiber-optic access to the explosion chamber was developed for in situ characterization, offering a safe and versatile approach for measurements in explosive environments. To the best of our knowledge, no prior studies have analyzed the correlation between the acoustic signatures and explosion intensity in PS–NaClO₄ systems as proposed here. Full article

This study investigates the immunomodulatory effects of a well-characterized cannabidiol (CBD)-rich cannabis extract, CAN296, on T lymphocytes (T cells), particularly Cluster of Differentiation 4 (CD4⁺) helper and Cluster of Differentiation 8 (CD8⁺) cytotoxic subsets, by examining T-cell activation, cytokine secretion, and cytotoxic molecule expression in comparison with the conventional treatments dexamethasone (DEX) and tacrolimus (TAC). It addresses key processes involved in the formation of premalignant immune-mediated lesions, such as those seen in oral lichen planus (OLP) and oral manifestations of graft-versus-host disease (oGVHD). CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells were isolated from healthy donors and assessed in vitro for T cell activation via CD69 expression, secreted tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) levels according to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and cytotoxic molecule expression Granzyme B, Perforin, Fas Ligand (Fas-L) quantified by flow cytometry. Cells were treated with different doses of CAN296 (2, 4, 8 µg/mL), DEX (0.4, 4, 40 µg/mL), or TAC (0.1, 1, 10 ng/mL), and all parameters were compared to untreated controls. CAN296 significantly inhibited T cell activation, reducing CD69 expression in CD4⁺ T cells to 2–11% and in CD8⁺ T cells to 5–17%. It also markedly suppressed TNF-α secretion in CD4⁺ T cells at all concentrations (p < 0.0001). In CD8⁺ T cells, CAN296 led to a near-complete reduction in TNF-α and IFN-γ, leaving both cytokines barely detectable at all tested doses (p < 0.0001). The effect of cell inhibition was significantly more pronounced than that observed with DEX or TAC, displaying dose-dependent reductions. TAC inconsistently lowered TNF-α while paradoxically increasing IFN-γ at lower concentrations. Additionally, CAN296 consistently suppressed cytotoxic molecule expression, reducing Granzyme B by 81–82%, Perforin by 40–53%, and Fas-L by 40–44%. DEX showed variable effects on cytotoxic molecule expression. At the same time, TAC demonstrated inconsistent modulation of Perforin and Granzyme B. Overall, CAN296 outperformed DEX and TAC, demonstrating more potent and consistent immunomodulatory effects. CBD-rich cannabis extract, CAN296, exhibits potent immunomodulatory properties by effectively inhibiting T cell activation, lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines, and suppressing cytotoxic molecule expression. Its efficacy surpasses conventional therapies like DEX and TAC, offering a promising novel treatment modality for T cell-mediated disorders, including OLP and oGVHD. These findings support further development of CAN296 formulations to optimize dosing and delivery, followed by clinical trials to validate its therapeutic potential. Full article

Background/Objectives: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents an intermediate stage between normal ageing and dementia, with a high annual progression rate. Despite its clinical relevance, no pharmacological treatment has been definitively approved for this condition; however, multiple pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies have been investigated for their potential benefits. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of both types of interventions in adults with MCI, aiming to identify effective strategies to preserve cognitive function. Methods: A systematic search (2017–2025) was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and WOS, following PRISMA guidelines. Randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies involving adults aged ≥ 50 years with a diagnosis of MCI were included. Outcomes were evaluated in terms of cognitive, functional, behavioural, and quality-of-life improvements. Risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 and ROBINS-I tools. Results: Of 108,700 records screened, 40 studies were included. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as cognitive training (conventional, computerised, or virtual reality-based), consistently improved memory, attention, and executive functions (e.g., MoCA: +3.84 points; p < 0.001). Transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with physical exercise also demonstrated significant benefits (p = 0.025). Among pharmacological treatments, only vortioxetine and choline alfoscerate showed modest improvements; cholinesterase inhibitors had limited effects and frequent adverse events. Complementary therapies (yoga, probiotics, and acupuncture) yielded promising outcomes but require further validation. Conclusions: Non-pharmacological strategies, particularly cognitive training and physical exercise, emerge as the most effective and safe approaches for managing MCI. The inclusion of pharmacological interventions with preliminary evidence of benefit should be considered within a personalised, multimodal approach, while recognising the current absence of approved drug treatments for MCI. Further research is needed in underrepresented populations, such as those in Latin America. Full article

The construction of self-dual and linear complementary dual (LCD) codes over finite rings, particularly over semi-local and local structures, is an active area of research due to their algebraic richness and applications in communications and cryptography. In this paper, we investigate double circulant and double negacirculant codes over the local ring $R_{q,u,v}={\mathbb{F}}_q+u{\mathbb{F}}_q+v{\mathbb{F}}_q,u^2=v^2=uv=vu=0,$ where $q=p^m$ is an odd prime power. Unlike the semi-local case, where decomposition via non-trivial idempotents simplifies analysis, the local structure of $R_{q,u,v}$ (with only trivial idempotents) makes enumeration and classification significantly more challenging. We first establish necessary and sufficient conditions for such codes to be self-dual or LCD; we then count the solutions to key equations over ${\mathbb{F}}_q$, including $a{b}^q+b{a}^q=0,$ to enable their enumeration. We further show that Gray images preserve these properties, leading to good self-dual and LCD codes over ${\mathbb{F}}_q$, and present optimal examples over ${\mathbb{F}}_7$. Our results extend double circulant constructions to a new algebraic setting, providing both theoretical advancements and practically relevant code designs. Full article

Clogging is a major constraint to the agricultural reuse of produced water; however, ultra-low-frequency dynamic electronic pulses (EPs) can help control biofouling in drip emitters. This study aimed to evaluate the reduction in clogging in non-self-compensating emitters applying onshore oil-and-gas-produced water treated with EP. Three experimental benches were assembled using drip irrigation units supplied with different water sources: water supply (WS), produced water with EP (OPW + EP), and produced water without treatment (OPW). Hydraulic performance was monitored every 40 h for 400 h using average flow rate variation (AFVR), flow variation coefficient (FVC), and distribution uniformity (UD) indices. Data were analyzed using RT-1 analysis with Bonferroni post hoc tests. Results showed that the interaction between water sources and evaluation times significantly (p ≤ 0.01) affected the hydraulic indices. After 400 h, the indices ranked as UD and FVC: WS > OPW + EP > OPW, and AFVR: OPW + EP = WS > OPW. Although OPW presented a low risk of clogging, the application of EP mitigated the obstruction and maintained higher uniformity by reducing clogging. These findings demonstrate that ultra-low-frequency electronic pulses are an innovative anti-clogging technology and provide insights for the sustainable application of produced water. Full article

Background/Objectives: At Fiona Stanley Hospital’s pulmonary rehabilitation program, people awaiting lung transplantation (LTx), whose exertional oxygen requirements are unable to be met with traditional oxygen interfaces, utilize high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) to exercise. In this paper, we aim to: (i) describe the characteristics of our service and of the people who have utilized HFNO; and (ii) explore differences between those who survived vs. did not survive whilst awaiting LTx. Methods: We conducted a description of the service and a retrospective analysis (from January 2021 to April 2024). The service description included: facility, equipment/cost, staffing/patient ratio, exercise program characteristics, and safety. Inclusion criteria for the analysis were: people actively listed for LTx and completion of three or more exercise sessions on HFNO. Data extracted included patient characteristics, comorbidities, 6-min walk distance (6MWD) prior to commencing HFNO, and survival pre-LTx. Differences between those who survived vs. did not survive whilst awaiting LTx were explored. Results: Nineteen patients were included (13 males; age 60 ± 12 yr; 18 with interstitial lung disease). The median [IQR] number of exercise sessions on HFNO was 15 [9; 25]. Eight (42%) patients died whilst awaiting LTx. In those who survived, the median time to LTx was 46 [25; 268] days. Compared to those who died, those who underwent LTx had fewer comorbidities (median: 2 [1; 4] vs. 4 [3; 5], p = 0.03). They also tended to be younger and have greater absolute 6MWD prior to commencing HFNO (mean difference, 95%CI: age −8.6 yr, −19.3 to 2.1; 6MWD 55 m, −74 to 185). Associations between dyspnea or body mass index with survival were not demonstrated. This analysis is hypothesis-generating rather than inferential, given the limited sample size. Conclusions: Our unique service of high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) use in patients participating in pulmonary rehabilitation whilst awaiting lung transplantation is described. Preliminary analysis suggests that, in people utilizing HFNO whilst awaiting LTx, those who underwent LTx had fewer comorbidities than those who did not survive the waitlist period. Larger studies are needed to explore further differences between those who survive vs. those who do not survive whilst awaiting LTx. Full article

Background: This study aims to investigate the association between the presence and severity of non-motor symptoms (constipation, REM sleep behavior disorder [RBD], hyposmia, and depression) and the severity of motor impairment in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods: We used data from Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), comprising patients with established PD, prodromal PD, and healthy controls. Motor disability was evaluated with the MDS-UPDRS part III. Non-motor symptoms were assessed with standardized scales for constipation (MDS-UPDRS part I sub-item), depression (15-item GDS), RBD questionnaire (RBDQ), and hyposmia (UPSIT). The relationships between non-motor symptoms and motor severity were explored using linear regression models (adjusted for age/sex). Results: Constipation was significantly more prevalent in PD and prodromal PD and independently associated with greater motor severity in both groups (p < 0.001). Constipation also correlated with increased freezing and falls. Depressive symptoms were similar across groups, but in prodromal PD, higher GDS scores were associated with worse UPDRS III scores (p = 0.02), as well as higher freezing and fall scores. Hyposmia was strongly reduced in PD and prodromal PD compared with controls but was not independently associated with motor severity. Higher RBDQ scores were associated with worse motor impairment in PD, but not in prodromal PD after adjustment. Conclusions: Constipation and REM sleep behavioral disorder were independent correlates of worse motor severity in prodromal and established PD, whereas depressive symptoms predicted more severe parkinsonism only within the prodromal phase. Full article

This systematic review investigates the role of the gut microbiota in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), specifically stages 4 and 5. Increasing evidence suggests that dysbiosis—an alteration in the normal balance of gut microbial populations—is not merely a secondary consequence of renal decline but a significant driver of disease progression. Such microbial imbalances are closely linked to a range of CKD-associated complications, including systemic inflammation, accumulation of uremic toxins, and heightened cardiovascular risk. Using PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we analyzed 87 peer-reviewed studies published between 2019 and 2025. The review revealed a consistent decline in beneficial microbes such as short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria were markedly reduced, while populations of uremic toxin-generating microbes were notably increased. This microbial imbalance was associated with elevated concentrations of indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate, heightened systemic inflammation, and impaired intestinal barrier integrity. Five conceptual frameworks—including the gut—kidney axis and endotoxemia—inflammation loop—were discussed. Ten microbiome assessment tools were reviewed, including 16S rRNA sequencing and LC-MS/MS for uremic toxin detection. Although probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics are gaining attention as potential therapeutic options, questions remain regarding their long-term efficacy and incorporation into standard clinical practice. Increasing scientific evidence underscores the gut microbiome’s pivotal role in CKD progression and management, reinforcing the need for carefully designed, long-term interventions aimed at restoring a healthier microbial balance to support renal function. Full article

As tourism develops, more study focuses on tourism sustainable development assessment. To solve ambiguous indicators and subjective weight distributions in such evaluations, this paper proposes a hybrid model combining Fuzzy AHP (FAHP) and Grey Relational TOPSIS (GR-TOPSIS). A 13-secondary-indicator evaluation system is established across four dimensions (economy, society, environment, culture), distinguishing positive/negative indicators based on tourism’s local impacts. FAHP builds a triangular fuzzy judgment matrix, with confidence ranking to determine index weights and consistency tests to ensure weight rationality. Grey relational theory improves TOPSIS, which integrates Euclidean distance and grey relational degree to form a hybrid closeness index, overcoming traditional TOPSIS’s poor fuzzy data handling. Verified with seven tourist regions in our cases, the method yields indicator weights and final superiority–inferiority rankings. Among the seven evaluated regions, Lijiang Qinghsui (P4) achieves the highest sustainable development level (hybrid closeness: 0.693), while P6 performs the poorest. Among the 13 indicators, Tourism Revenue Contribution is the most important (weight: 0.189) and Tourists’ Cultural Respect Degree (F13) is the least important (weight: 0.015). Compared with traditional TOPSIS, this innovative model quantifies sustainable tourism development levels, offering a scientific basis for regional tourism decision-making. Full article

Background: Osteoid osteoma (OO) is a benign osteogenic tumor that causes severe pain despite its small size. Minimally invasive image-guided thermal ablation has replaced surgery as the treatment of choice. While radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is considered the gold standard, microwave ablation (MWA) offers faster and more homogeneous heating, though comparative evidence remains limited. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 53 patients with OO treated with RFA (n = 27) or MWA (n = 26) between 2014 and 2023. All procedures were CT-guided. Technical success, clinical success, recurrence, complications, and prognostic factors—including the nidus diameter and eccentricity index—were evaluated over a minimum 24-month follow-up period. Results: Technical success was achieved in all cases. Overall clinical success was 94.3% (96.2% MWA vs. 92.6% RFA, p = 1.000). Two recurrences (4%) occurred, unrelated to device type. One major complication (1.9%, third-degree skin burn after MWA) was noted. Median nidus diameter was 7 mm; lesions ≥10 mm were significantly linked to failure (p = 0.009). Logistic regression identified nidus size as the strongest outcome predictor, with the eccentricity index showing a borderline effect. Conclusions: Both RFA and MWA are safe and effective for OO, with comparable outcomes and low recurrence rates. Treatment selection should prioritize lesion-specific factors—particularly nidus size ≥10 mm and geometry—rather than device type. Lesion size (≥10 mm) and geometry—not ablation modality—were the principal determinants of treatment success. Individualized modality selection based on these features may optimize outcomes. Full article

This study aims to characterize tissue-specific expression patterns in Hanwoo steers by identifying co-expression modules, functional pathways, and hub genes related to fat and muscle traits using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network analysis (WGCNA). RNA-Seq data were generated from three muscle tissues (longissimus muscle, tenderloin, and rump) and two fat tissues (back fat and abdominal fat) collected from six 30-month-old Hanwoo steers. Quality control of raw sequencing reads was performed using FastQC, and trimmed reads were aligned to the bovine reference genome (ARS-UCD1.3) using HISAT2. We also identified a gene co-expression network via WGCNA using normalized gene expression values. Modules were defined based on topological overlap and correlated with tissue-specific expression patterns. Modules with a significant association (p < 0.05) were used for functional enrichment based on Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathways, as well as Protein–Protein Interaction Network analysis. A total of seven co-expression modules were identified by WGCNA and labeled in distinct colors (yellow, blue, red, brown, turquoise, green, black). Among them, the yellow and blue modules were positively associated with back fat, while the turquoise and green modules showed a negative correlation with abdominal fat. Additionally, the turquoise or green module was positively correlated with longissimus and rump tissues, indicating distinct gene expression patterns between fat and muscle. This study identified key co-expression modules and hub genes associated with muscle and fat metabolism. Notably, ARPC5 (blue module) was involved in lipid metabolism and energy storage, whereas AGPAT5 (turquoise module) was linked to maintaining muscle cell structure and function. These findings reveal biological mechanisms for tissue-specific gene regulation, providing targets for enhancing meat quality in Hanwoo. Full article