Search Results (913)

Production industries create high-quality products through effective machining precision, lead times, productivity, cost benefits, and implementing sustainable manufacturing practices. This study compares the effect of cryogenic CO₂ as a cutting fluid with a flooded conventional system and dry turning on the surface roughness, early-stage tool phenomena (including adhesion, material transfer, and built-up edge (BUE) formation), and the chip morphology of aluminum 7075-T6. Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array is applied to identify the optimal cutting parameters that minimize surface roughness (Ra). Cutting speed (Vc), feed rate (f), depth of cut (ap), and the type of cutting fluid condition were defined at three levels. The surface roughness (Ra) was determined, and the built-up edge (BUE) and chip morphology were evaluated. Moreover, SEM and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were employed to characterize the machined surface and the cutting tools. The optimal values for the cryogenic cooling and cutting parameters are as follows: 220 m/min (Vc), 0.05 mm/rev (f), and 0.5 mm (ap). These conditions yield a surface roughness mean (Ra) of 0.736 µm, improving the surface roughness by 10.57% compared with the lowest Ra value from all of the tests. In addition, ANOVA showed the feed rate to be the most significant cutting parameter over surface roughness under the given conditions. Regarding chip morphology, snarled chip shapes are associated with low surface roughness values. The results indicate that cryogenic cutting fluid enhances the machined surface quality and reduces the built-up edge compared with dry and flooded conditions. Full article

Migraine is a complex neurological disorder that severely compromises quality of life. Current therapies remain inadequate, creating an urgent need for precision medicine approaches. To bridge this gap, we integrated genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and multi-tissue expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data. Using Mendelian randomization (SMR/HEIDI) to identify putatively causal genes, followed by colocalization analysis, protein–protein interaction networks, and gene enrichment, we prioritized druggable targets. Phenome-wide association studies (PheWASs) further assessed their potential safety profiles. We identified 31 migraine-associated genes in whole blood, 20 in brain tissue, and 9 genes shared by both whole blood and brain regions. Among 13 druggable genes identified from the DGIdb and supporting literature, 10 passed colocalization validation. Eight genes (TGFB3, CHRNB1, BACE2, THRA, NCOR2, NR1D1, CHD4, REV3L) showed interactions with known drug targets, enabling the computational prediction of 41 potential repurposable drugs. Based on target druggability, PPI (protein–protein interaction) and favorable PheWAS profiles, NR1D1, THRA, NCOR2, and CHD4 are prioritized for drug development. Additionally, MICU1, UFL1, LY6G5C, and PPP1CC emerged as novel pathophysiological factors. This study establishes a multi-omics framework for precision migraine therapy, translating genetic insights into clinically actionable targets. Full article

Even though the foundations of diamond burnishing as a research topic were laid long ago, numerous scientific papers still deal with examining various aspects of the burnishing process today. One such aspect is the investigation of the 3D roughness parameters related to the tribological characteristics of the machined surface, which is detailed in the present study. In this study, the positive properties of slide friction diamond burnishing are presented through the examination of surface quality, which plays a key role in tribological assessment. This study analyzed the surface layer condition of X5CrNi18-10 stainless austenitic chromium–nickel steel test pieces after burnishing. Among the finishing operations, burnishing is an economical and low-environmental impact process. The study includes a description of the technological characteristics of turning and diamond burnishing processes. The main characteristics of the Abbott–Firestone curve are described, and parameter improvement factors are introduced. The experimental results and their evaluations are presented by analyzing the values of the Abbott–Firestone surface curves. The study concludes that the best improvement ratios of S_a (arithmetical mean height), S_q (root mean square height), S_z (maximum height) IS_a, IS_q, and IS_z roughness improvements were achieved when using the parameter combination v₂ = 55.578 m/min, f₂ = 0.050 mm/rev and F₄ = 50 N. Full article

Background and Objectives: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is one of the most serious complications following total joint arthroplasty (TJA), leading to poor functional outcomes and increased healthcare burden. Intraosseous (IO) regional antibiotic prophylaxis has emerged as a promising method for infection prevention, offering potential advantages over conventional intravenous (IV) systemic administration. This study aimed to systematically evaluate the clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety of IO prophylaxis in TJA. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library up to 23 June 2025. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials and observational studies reporting outcomes of IO antibiotic administration in TJA. Primary endpoints were systemic and local antibiotic concentrations (bone and fat tissue), the incidence of PJI, and complication profiles. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROB-2 and ROBINS-I tools, and meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan v 7.2.0. Results: Fifteen studies (eight RCTs, one prospective study, and six retrospective studies) were included for qualitative synthesis, of which ten were included in the meta-analysis. As compared with IV, IO administration resulted in significantly higher local antibiotic concentrations in bone (MD: 15.52 μg/g; 95% CI: 8.60–22.45; p < 0.0001) and fat tissue (MD: 18.15 μg/g; 95% CI: 12.86–23.45; p < 0.0001). IO prophylaxis was associated with a significantly lower PJI rate (OR: 0.26; 95% CI: 0.12–0.57; p = 0.008) without a significant difference in the incidence of complications (p = 0.66). Conclusions: IO antibiotic prophylaxis is an effective and safe strategy for infection prevention in total joint arthroplasty. By achieving superior local antibiotic concentrations and reducing PJI rates without increasing complications, this approach holds promise for broader clinical application. Full article

Background/Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of olfactory training (OT) using standardized protocols in patients with post-COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction. The objective was to assess whether OT, compared to no treatment, placebo, or alternative therapies, improved olfactory function as measured using validated smell tests, including UPSIT, Sniffin’ Sticks (TDI score), CCCRC, and B-SIT. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Ovid Medline was conducted through February 2025 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted on study characteristics (author, year, country, design, sample size), population details (age, sex, post-COVID-19 cause), intervention type (training method, frequency, duration), comparators, outcome measures (baseline and post-intervention olfactory scores), follow-up duration, and reported adverse effects. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan and Open Meta-Analyst. Results: Olfactory training significantly improved the olfactory scores compared to those of the controls. The greatest improvement was observed when OT was combined with PEA-luteolin (MD = 4.62, 95% CI: 2.17–7.06, p = 0.0002), followed by EDTA (MD = 2.33, 95% CI: 0.58–4.08, p = 0.009). Corticosteroids showed a borderline benefit (MD = 1.34, 95% CI: 0.01–2.67, p = 0.05), while alpha-lipoic acid had no significant effect. Combination therapies were associated with higher recovery rates (RR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.13–2.42, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Olfactory training is an effective treatment for post-COVID-19 smell dysfunction. When paired with specific adjunct therapies, particularly PEA-luteolin, it may yield superior recovery outcomes. Further large-scale, standardized RCTs are needed to define optimal treatment protocols. Full article

Background and Objectives: Post-Operative Pancreatic Fistula (POPF) is reported among 13% to 64% of cases following a distal/left pancreatectomy (D/LP). Many efforts aim to prevent the onset of POPF or reduce its clinical impact. This meta-analysis sought to provide data by assessing POPF rates among patients undergoing D/LP for benign or malignant pancreatic diseases, with or without pancreatic stump mesh wrapping. Materials and Methods: We undertook a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines, alongside the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We evaluated the certainty in the evidence using the GRADE approach for the following key outcomes: overall POPF and clinically relevant POPF. PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus were employed to retrieve relevant papers. Pooled analysis was carried out employing RevMan Version 5.4.1. Results: Among the 8 comparative studies considered (1042 subjects: 430 Wrapping Mesh Group (WMG) versus 612 control group (CG)), seven were retrospective observational studies and one was a randomized controlled trial. Polyglycolic acid (PGA) mesh was used in 7 studies, except for one, who used a polyglactin mesh. Regarding the primary outcomes, meta-analysis showed lower rates of Overall POPF (Ov-POPF) (OR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.37, 0.88; p = 0.01) and clinically relevant POPF (CR-POPF) (OR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.50; p < 0.00001) in the WMG. Moreover, the WMG also showed a decrease in Estimated Blood Loss (EBL) (MD: −43.11, 95%, CI: −63.20, −23.02, p < 0.0001), a shorter period with surgical drain (MD: −9.66, 95% CI: −17.99, −1.34, p = 0.02) and a decreased length of hospital stay (MD: −4.60, 95%, CI: −7.83, −1.36, p = 0.005). Conclusions: Our meta-analysis showed that wrapping the pancreatic stump with mesh is associated with lower rates of overall POPF and clinically relevant POPF, lower EBL, a shorter period with the surgical drain and reduced hospital stay duration. There is a need for high-quality methodological research to identify the risk factors for the onset of POPF and to evaluate and compare the results of various surgical approaches used to reduce its rate and associated morbidity. Full article

There is a lack of information in the literature on the influence of technological heredity on surface integrity characteristics after diamond burnishing (DB). The present study fills this gap. Here, we present the effects of DB on the roughness parameters and surface microhardness of heat-treated C45 steel under conditions of changing initial roughness (Ra^init) due to wear on the cutting insert in the previous turning. The aim was to quantitatively assess the ability of DB to maintain sustainable surface integrity characteristics. We found that the service life of the cutting insert up to complete wear or fracture when operating at an optimal feed rate and cutting velocity was 163 min, at which point the roughness changed unevenly from an average roughness (Ra) value of 0.38 to 1.31 μm and an average height of the profile microroughness (Rz) value of 2.21 to 6.13 μm. Under conditions of an artificially created Ra^init (through different combinations of feed rate and cutting velocity) of 0.308 to 10.688 μm, DB provided Ra values in the range of 0.042 to 0.316 μm, with the surface microhardness varying from 461 to 568 HV. Stable Ra values were maintained from 0.042 μm to 0.089 μm, after which the Ra^init increased to 3.379 μm. Under production conditions, where the previous turning was performed at an optimal feed rate of 0.05 mm/rev and a cutting velocity of 180 m/min, DB provided a stable Ra of ≤0.059 μm of a resulting mirror-like surface during the first 90 min of operation of a new (unused) cutting insert, after which the Ra values increased linearly from 0.059 to 0.133 μm in the 150th minute. After 30 min of operation, until the cutting insert was completely worn, the microhardness after DB varied from 676 to 795 HV, the high surface microhardness resulting from a complex process of surface thermo-mechanical strengthening (including strain and transformation hardening) in the previous turning due to wear on the cutting insert. Full article

Background/Objectives: To establish reference intervals (RIs) and cut-off values for thyroid-related tests on the MAGLUMI X6 immunoassay analyzer (Snibe Diagnostic, Shenzhen, China) in an adult Croatian population. Methods: This study included 305 healthy individuals who underwent regular preventive medical checkup. The following tests were determined in serum: thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), total triiodothyronine (TT3), total thyroxine (TT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), thyroglobulin (Tg), reverse triiodothyronine (revT3), total binding capacity of thyroglobulin (T-uptake), thyroglobulin antibodies (anti-Tg), anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO) and thyroid receptor antibodies (TRAb). TSH, TT3, TT4, FT3, FT4, Tg, revT3 and T-uptake results were used for calculating double-sided 95% RIs between the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles. For anti-Tg, anti-TPO and TRAb, right-sided cut-offs that correspond to the 95th percentile were determined. Results: Reference intervals for TSH, TT4, FT3, FT4, Tg, T-uptake and revT3 did not differ by gender (p > 0.05) and were 0.77–5.04 mIU/L, 69.9–127.7 nmol/L, 3.84–6.20 pmol/L, 13.8–19.7 pmol/L, 1.8–51.2 µg/L, 0.9–1.2 TBI and 0.44–0.73 ng/mL, respectively. The RI for TT3 was different for males (1.49–2.53 nmol/L) and females (1.43–2.81 nmol/L), p = 0.021. A single cut-off for anti-TPO was established (<18 kIU/L). Differences in cut-offs for males and females were obtained for anti-Tg (<72 and <104 kIU/L, respectively) and TRAb (0.6 and 0.9 IU/L, respectively). Conclusions: This is the first study to determine RIs for thyroid function tests in Croatian adults on the Snibe analytical platform. The obtained results point out to the use of population- and immunoassay-specific RIs. For TT3, anti-Tg and TRAb gender-specific RIs should be considered. Full article

The Quality Participation Framework proposes that repeated quality experiences foster continued quality participation (i.e., participation quantity over time). This study explored the relationship between the quality and quantity of participation in an exercise setting. Individuals (n = 17) with a physical disability engaged in Revved Up @ Home, a 10-week online community-based exercise program designed to foster quality participation. Using a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design situated in critical realism, participants completed quality experience global questionnaires at baseline and 10 weeks, and acute questionnaires following each exercise session. Participant attendance was retrieved from program records. In semi-structured interviews at 10 weeks, participants were shown graphs of results derived from the acute questionnaires and asked about their quality and quantity of participation during the program. Correlations quantified the relationship between quality and quantity of participation, and thematic analysis facilitated an exploration of the contextual relationship. Qualitative and quantitative findings were integrated, highlighting important relationships between belongingness and quantity, meaning and quantity, as well as between challenge and mastery. Findings provide preliminary evidence that repeated quality experiences foster quality participation, and detail relationships between the aspects of quality participation and between quantity and quality participation. Findings can be used to enhance quality participation and attendance among individuals with physical disabilities who attend community-based exercise programs. Full article

In this study, aluminium matrix hybrid composites reinforced with boron carbide (B₄C) and silicon carbide (SiC) were fabricated using the direct hot-pressing technique under 35 MPa pressure at 600 °C for 5 min. Particle size distribution and scanning electron microscope analysis were conducted for the input powders. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and drillability of the fabricated composites were examined. As the SiC content increased, the density decreased, hardness improved, and transverse rupture strength declined. Drilling experiments were performed based on the Taguchi L₁₈ orthogonal array. The control factors included cutting speed (25 and 50 m/min), feed rate (0.08, 0.16, and 0.24 mm/rev), point angle (100°, 118°, and 136°), and SiC content (0%, 5%, and 10%). Quality characteristics such as thrust force, torque, surface quality indicators, diameter deviation, and circularity deviation were evaluated. The Taguchi method was applied for single-response optimization, while the Entropy-weighted, Taguchi-based CoCoSo method was used for multi-response optimization. Analysis of Variance was conducted to assess factor significance, and regression analysis was used to model relationships between inputs and responses, yielding high R² values. The optimal drilling performance was achieved at 50 m/min, 0.08 mm/rev, 136°, and 10% SiC, and the confirmation tests verified these results within the 95% confidence interval. Full article

Background: The British Thoracic Society recommended tube thoracostomy plus intra-pleural fibrinolytics to treat empyema in children in 2005. However, numerous comparative studies have suggested Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) as a first line of treatment for pediatric empyema due to its superior outcomes, including shorter length of hospital stay (LOS). This meta-analysis aimed to compare the following: (1) the LOS for VATS versus fibrinolytics to treat empyema in children; (2) secondary post-operative outcomes (fever, O₂ support, time taken for chest tube removal, analgesia, complications, failure, and abnormal chest X-ray at follow-up). Methods: The study was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Scopus was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Two independent investigators identified relevant studies, excluding case reports, opinion articles, and gray literature publications. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed using RevMan 5.4, with data expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Results: Of 1374 abstracts screened, 104 full-text articles were analyzed, and 6 RCTs (345 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. Patients undergoing VATS had significantly shorter LOS compared to those receiving fibrinolytics (9.1 ± 1.8 vs. 11.5 ± 2.5 days, p = 0.05). VATS patients also experienced shorter postoperative fever duration (4.2 ± 0.8 vs. 6.9 ± 4.6 days, p = 0.007) and earlier chest tube removal (5.0 ± 2.6 vs. 9.5 ± 3.3 days, p = 0.01). No significant differences were found between the two groups for other secondary outcomes. Conclusions: Children with empyema appear to benefit from VATS compared to tube thoracostomy plus fibrinolytics, with improved outcomes. Further RCTs are needed to corroborate these results. Full article

Background: Initial fluid therapy in acute pancreatitis is critical for modulating the systemic inflammatory response. The choice between Lactated Ringer and normal saline remains debated, given their potentially divergent impacts on disease progression and clinically relevant outcomes. The objective of this meta-analysis is to determine the effectiveness of one solution versus the other in patients with AP. Methods: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials published between 2000 and 2024 was conducted through an exhaustive search in databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, LILACS, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Springer, Scielo, and Cochrane. The review protocol adhered to the recommendations established by PRISMA. The methodological quality of the selected studies was assessed using the Jadad scale, while statistical analyses were performed with RevMan 5.4^® and Jamovi 2.3.28^® software. Results: Five trials with 299 patients showed that, in patients with AP, Lactated Ringer significantly reduced ICU admission (RR: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.18–0.85; p = 0.02) and the progression of pancreatitis (RR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.40–0.98; p = 0.04). There was no significant difference in mortality or hospital stay (SMD: −0.89; 95% CI: −2.26 to 0.48; p = 0.23). No clear effects were observed on SIRS at 24, 48, and 72 h. CRP at 48 h was significantly lower with lactate (SMD: −3.91; 95% CI: −4.66 to −3.17; p < 0.00001), but not at 72 h. Conclusions: The administration of Lactated Ringer in acute pancreatitis shows clinical and anti-inflammatory benefits, but the evidence is mostly of low quality. Full article

Nowadays, there is an emphasis on reducing emissions due to industrial processes. In recent decades, filtration systems have become an integral part of the broadly understood heavy industry systems to reduce the emission of dust and other substances harmful to the environment and humans. Filters can also be found in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, in the transport industry, and their use in households is also increasing. The effective separation of micro- or nanometer contaminants is closely related to the development of new, sophisticated filter materials. Thanks to the use of modern tools for multiphase flow modeling, it becomes possible to model the flow inside the filter material. In this study, we propose a methodology to simulate the internal flow through porous structures with a fiber size of 5–30 µm. The geometry used to build the mathematical model is the actual geometry of the filter obtained using micro-Computed Tomography (CT) imaging method. The mathematical model has been validated against experimental data. In this article, we show the methodology to adapt a geometry scan for use in commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software (Ansys Fluent 2021 R1). Then we present the analysis of the influence of essential parameters of numerical model, namely the size of representative elementary volume (REV) of porous material, representation quality of porous matrix and numerical mesh density on the pressure drop in the filter. Based on the conducted research, the minimum size of the REV and the numerical mesh density were determined, allowing us to obtain a representative solution of the flow structure through the filtering material. The strong agreement between the model results and experimental data highlights the potential of using a multi-fluid mathematical model to understand filtration dynamics. Full article

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries are a major concern in baseball because of repetitive valgus stress from overhead throwing, often leading to surgical intervention. In recent years, UCL reconstruction has become increasingly frequent. Although this procedure has a high success rate, revision surgery is often required. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the incidence of UCL surgery and revision procedures in baseball players, explored potential risk factors, and identified areas for future research. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, Embase, and SportDiscus databases was conducted for studies published between 2014 and 2024. Studies reporting the incidence of primary and revision UCL reconstructions in baseball players were included. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS). A meta-analysis using RevMan 5.4 software calculated the pooled proportions and 95% confidence intervals for UCL surgery and revision rates. Six studies met the inclusion criteria, including data from 27,366 baseball players. The pooled incidence of UCL surgery was 4.52% (95% CI: 4.20–4.84%), and the pooled incidence of revision surgery was 8.42% (95% CI: 5.49–11.35%). Statistical analyses showed high heterogeneity (I² = 100%, p < 0.00001). Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness of the results, both in the incidence of surgery and in the revision surgery. UCL surgery is a common procedure in baseball, and a notable proportion of athletes require revision. Further research is necessary to identify the risk factors and develop preventive strategies to reduce UCL injury rates. Full article

Background/Objectives: Glioblastomas are a part of adult-type diffuse gliomas, the most common and most aggressive primary brain tumors in adults (glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype). The identification of the genetic factors associated with glioblastoma could be an important contribution to the diagnosis and early prevention of this disease. We compiled data from the global literature and analyzed clinically relevant variants implicated in glioblastoma risk. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were used as databases. Associations between the SNPs and glioblastoma risk were calculated as a measure of pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals. Pearson’s analysis was used for epidemiological correlation (only p-values less than 0.05 were statistically significant), and data were obtained from the World Health Organization platform and the 1000 Genomes Project. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager (RevMan) 5.4 and BioEstat 5.0. Results: CCDC26 rs891835 G/T, G/G, and G/T-G/G genotypes were analyzed and determined to increase glioblastoma risk (G/T OR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.38–2.77, p = 0.0002, I² = 0%; G/G OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 0.46–3.85, p = 0.60, I² = 0%; G/T − G/G OR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.39–2.76, p = 0.0001, I² = 0%). Epidemiological correlation also demonstrated that the higher the frequency of the CCDC26 rs891835 variant, the higher the incidence of that variant in the European population. Conclusions: CCDC26 rs891835 may serve as a predictive biomarker for glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype risk and may influence higher glioblastoma incidence rates in the European population. Full article