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Search Results (453)

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25 pages, 5267 KB  
Article
Evolution of the Global Forage Products Trade Network and Implications for China’s Import Security
by Shuxia Zhang, Zihao Wei, Cha Cui and Mingli Wang
Agriculture 2025, 15(19), 2073; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15192073 - 2 Oct 2025
Abstract
Growing global supply chain uncertainties significantly threaten China’s forage import security. The evolving characteristics of the global forage trade network directly impact the stability of China’s supply. This study constructs a directed, weighted trade network based on global forage products trade data (2000–2024). [...] Read more.
Growing global supply chain uncertainties significantly threaten China’s forage import security. The evolving characteristics of the global forage trade network directly impact the stability of China’s supply. This study constructs a directed, weighted trade network based on global forage products trade data (2000–2024). Using complex network analysis methods, it systematically analyzes the network’s topological structure and evolutionary patterns, with a focus on their impact on China’s import security. The study addresses the following questions: What evolutionary patterns does the global forage trade network exhibit in terms of its topological structure? How does the evolution of this network impact the import security of forage products in China, specifically regarding supply chain stability and risk resilience? The research findings indicate the following: (1) From 2000 to 2024, the total volume of global forage products trade increased by 48.17%, primarily driven by forage products excluding alfalfa meal and pellets, which accounted for an average of 82.04% of volume annually. Additionally, the number of participating countries grew by 21.95%. (2) The global forage products trade network follows a power–law distribution, characterized by increasing network density, a clustering coefficient that initially declines and then rises, and a shortening of the average path length. (3) The core structure of the global forage products trade network shows an evolutionary trend of diffusion from core nodes in North America, Oceania, and Asia to multiple core nodes, including those in North America, Oceania, Europe, Africa, and Asia. (4) China’s forage products trade network displays distinct phase characteristics; however, imports face significant risks from high supply chain dependency and exposure to international price fluctuations. Based on these conclusions, it is recommended that China actively expands trade relations with potential product-exporting countries in Africa, encouraging enterprises to “go global.” Additionally, China should establish a three-dimensional supply chain security system, comprising maritime, land, and storage components, to enhance risk resistance and import safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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12 pages, 2973 KB  
Article
Epidemic Spreading on Metapopulation Networks with Finite Carrying Capacity
by An-Cai Wu
Mathematics 2025, 13(18), 2994; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13182994 - 17 Sep 2025
Viewed by 200
Abstract
In this study, we formulate and analyze a susceptible–infected–susceptible (SIS) dynamic on metapopulation networks, where each node has a finite carrying capacity and the motion of individuals is modulated by vacant space at the destination. We obtain that the vacancy-dependent mobility pattern results [...] Read more.
In this study, we formulate and analyze a susceptible–infected–susceptible (SIS) dynamic on metapopulation networks, where each node has a finite carrying capacity and the motion of individuals is modulated by vacant space at the destination. We obtain that the vacancy-dependent mobility pattern results in various asymptotic population distributions on heterogeneous metapopulation networks. The resulting population distributions have remarkable impact on the behavior of SIS dynamics. We show that, for the given total number of individuals, higher heterogeneity in population distributions facilitates epidemic spreading in terms of both a smaller epidemic threshold and larger macroscopic incidence. Moreover, we analytically obtain a sufficient condition that the disease-free equilibrium becomes unstable and an endemic state arises. Contrary to the absence of an epidemic threshold in the standard diffusion case without excluded-volume effects, the finite carrying capacity induces a nonzero epidemic threshold under certain conditions in the limit of infinite network sizes with an unbounded maximum degree. Our analytical results agree well with numerical simulations. Full article
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22 pages, 657 KB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Review of Metal Composite Bone Grafts in Preclinical Spinal Fusion Models
by Christian Rajkovic, Mahnoor Shafi, Naboneeta Sarkar, Vaughn Hernandez, Liwen Yang and Timothy F. Witham
Biomimetics 2025, 10(9), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10090594 - 5 Sep 2025
Viewed by 525
Abstract
Successful arthrodesis is a crucial factor in spinal fusion surgery, maximizing the likelihood of improved quality of life. The incorporation of metals into bone grafts has been demonstrated to enhance fusion rates through various osteoinductive and osteoconductive pathways. A systematic review was conducted [...] Read more.
Successful arthrodesis is a crucial factor in spinal fusion surgery, maximizing the likelihood of improved quality of life. The incorporation of metals into bone grafts has been demonstrated to enhance fusion rates through various osteoinductive and osteoconductive pathways. A systematic review was conducted to investigate the utility of metal composite bone grafts in promoting arthrodesis in spinal fusion preclinical studies. PubMed/MEDLINE was queried to identify studies investigating metal composite bone grafts in animal models of spinal fusion. Non-spinal fusion animal models were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE risk of bias tool. After screening a total of 1554 articles, 17 articles were included in our review. Metal composite bone grafts with bioactive agents had significantly greater fusion rates than metal composite only bone grafts (p < 0.001) and similar fusion rates compared to non-metal comparator bone grafts (p = 0.172). Bone grafts containing strontium and magnesium had the greatest fusion rates compared to other metals and had significantly greater fusion rates than those of silicon-containing bone grafts (p = 0.02 and p = 0.04, respectively). Bone quality and bone volume percentages of fusion masses formed by metal composite bone grafts were enhanced via the addition of bioactive agents such as stem cells, rhBMP-2, autograft, and poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid). The adverse event rate was 3.0% in all animal surgeries. Metal composite bone grafts show promise as osteoinductive agents to promote arthrodesis in spinal fusion, and their osteoinductive capability is enhanced with the synergistic addition of osteogenic factors such as stem cells and autograft. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomimetics of Materials and Structures)
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14 pages, 1818 KB  
Article
ESFT13: A Phase II Study Evaluating the Addition of Window and Maintenance Therapy to a Standard Chemotherapy Backbone for the Treatment of High-Risk Ewing Sarcoma
by Jessica Gartrell, Fariba Navid, Xiaomeng Yuan, Kirsten K. Ness, Mikhail Dubrovin, Fang Wang, Haitao Pan, Mary Beth McCarville, Barry L. Shulkin, Sara Helmig, Matthew J. Krasin, Michael D. Neel, Andrew M. Davidoff, Belinda N. Mandrell, Deena R. Levine, Zhongheng Cai, Michael W. Bishop, Alberto S. Pappo and Sara M. Federico
Cancers 2025, 17(17), 2894; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17172894 - 3 Sep 2025
Viewed by 663
Abstract
Study Aim: Patients with high-risk Ewing sarcoma (ES) have dismal outcomes despite aggressive multimodal therapy. This phase II, single-institution study evaluated the response rate to two up-front cycles of irinotecan, temozolomide, and temsirolimus (ITT) and assessed the tolerability of maintenance therapy following standard [...] Read more.
Study Aim: Patients with high-risk Ewing sarcoma (ES) have dismal outcomes despite aggressive multimodal therapy. This phase II, single-institution study evaluated the response rate to two up-front cycles of irinotecan, temozolomide, and temsirolimus (ITT) and assessed the tolerability of maintenance therapy following standard treatment in high-risk ES. Methods: Eligible patients had newly diagnosed high-risk ES (age ≥14 years old, metastatic disease, or primary pelvic tumor). The therapy included two cycles of window therapy (ITT) followed by interval-compressed chemotherapy (vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide alternating with ifosfamide and etoposide) and maintenance therapy (cyclophosphamide, sorafenib, and bevacizumab). A two-stage sequential design was employed to assess a >50% WHO response (CR or PR) with 80% power. Patients who required emergent radiation were excluded from receiving window therapy. Results: Sixteen patients (median age 12.2 years; range 4.8–23.6 years) were enrolled (12 evaluable for overall response, 10 for primary tumor response). Only three achieved a PR to window therapy, leading to study closure. All evaluable patients demonstrated a decline in their primary tumor volume (mean decline: 32.5%, standard deviation: 17.6%, p-value: 0.0005) and SUV peak (mean decline: 49.9%, standard deviation: 21.1%, p-value: 0.002). Maintenance therapy was well tolerated, with only 2/13 patients discontinuing due to toxicity. Conclusions: ITT did not achieve the prespecified response rate of 50%, according to WHO criteria; however, all patients exhibited decreased volume and metabolic activity, highlighting the limitations of conventional response assessments. Maintenance therapy was feasible and well tolerated. Although limited by small sample size, heterogeneous disease presentations, and the absence of a control arm, this study supports further evaluation of ITT and a maintenance approach in larger, randomized trials for high-risk ES. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in the Treatment of Pediatric Solid Tumors)
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47 pages, 1148 KB  
Review
Burnout and the Brain—A Mechanistic Review of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Studies
by James Chmiel and Donata Kurpas
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(17), 8379; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178379 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1493
Abstract
Occupational burnout is ubiquitous yet still debated as a disease entity. Previous reviews surveyed multiple biomarkers but left their neural substrate unclear. We therefore asked: What, if any, reproducible magnetic-resonance signature characterises burnout? Following PRISMA principles adapted for mechanistic synthesis, two reviewers searched [...] Read more.
Occupational burnout is ubiquitous yet still debated as a disease entity. Previous reviews surveyed multiple biomarkers but left their neural substrate unclear. We therefore asked: What, if any, reproducible magnetic-resonance signature characterises burnout? Following PRISMA principles adapted for mechanistic synthesis, two reviewers searched PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, ResearchGate and Cochrane from January 2000 to May 2025 using “MRI/fMRI” AND “burnout”. After duplicate removal and multi-stage screening, 17 clinical studies met predefined inclusion criteria (English language, MRI outcomes, validated burnout diagnosis). In total, ≈1365 participants were scanned, 880 with clinically significant burnout and 470 controls. Uniform Maslach Burnout Inventory thresholds defined cases; most studies matched age and sex, and all excluded primary neurological disease. Structural morphometry (8/17 studies) revealed consistent amygdala enlargement—predominantly in women—and grey-matter loss in dorsolateral/ventromedial prefrontal cortex and striatal caudate–putamen, while hippocampal volume remained unaffected, distinguishing burnout from PTSD or depression. Resting-state and task fMRI (9/17 studies) showed fronto-cortical hyper-activation, weakened amygdala–ACC coupling, and progressive fragmentation of rich-club networks, collectively indicating compensatory executive overdrive and global inefficiency. Two longitudinal cohorts and several intervention sub-studies demonstrated partial reversal of cortical thinning and limbic hyper-reactivity after mindfulness, exercise, cognitive-behavioural therapy, neurofeedback, or rTMS, underscoring plasticity. Across heterogeneous paradigms and populations, MRI converges on a coherent, sex-modulated but reversible brain-networkopathy that satisfies objective disease criteria. These findings justify early neuro-imaging-based triage, circuit-targeted therapy, and formal nosological recognition of burnout as a mental disorder, with policy ramifications for occupational health and insurance parity. Full article
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12 pages, 894 KB  
Review
Air Pollution and Respiratory System Responses in Healthy Adults Engaging in Outdoor Physical Exercise in Urban Environments: A Scoping Review
by Sergio Leonardo Cortés González and Katy Alexandra López Pereira
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(9), 1347; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22091347 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1009
Abstract
Introduction: People who exercise outdoors in urban environments may inhale increased amounts of polluted air due to temporary respiratory changes induced by physical activity. The objective of this scoping review was to map the physiological, morphological, and/or functional responses of the respiratory system [...] Read more.
Introduction: People who exercise outdoors in urban environments may inhale increased amounts of polluted air due to temporary respiratory changes induced by physical activity. The objective of this scoping review was to map the physiological, morphological, and/or functional responses of the respiratory system to air pollution in healthy adults who exercise outdoors in urban environments. Methods: This review was conducted following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A comprehensive search of Medline (PubMed), Redalyc, Scielo, and Web of Science was conducted to identify clinical trials, quasi-experimental studies, and cross-sectional studies published in the last 10 years in English. Studies with healthy adult participants engaged in outdoor physical activity in urban environments were included. Texts with participants with preexisting respiratory diseases, elite athletes, animal models, and computer simulations were excluded. Results: The most frequently reported air pollutants were PM2.5, PM10, and ozone (O3); the most common forms of exercise were walking, running, and cycling. Exposure to air pollutants during physical activity was associated with reductions in forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), as well as increases in the fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and proinflammatory biomarkers. Conclusion: The findings indicated that there are modifications in lung function in those who exercise outdoors. However, the association between these respiratory responses and air pollution was not statistically significant in most cases. Some authors suggested that the health benefits of physical activity could mitigate the harmful effects of air pollution. Full article
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13 pages, 2633 KB  
Article
Non-Contrast CT Hemorrhage Markers and Outcomes in Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Large Single-Center Cohort from Romania
by Cosmin Cindea, Vicentiu Saceleanu, Patrick Canning, Corina Roman-Filip and Romeo Mihaila
Reports 2025, 8(3), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports8030159 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 702
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Early hematoma expansion (HE) is a key driver of poor outcomes, yet readily available non-contrast CT (NCCT) markers remain underused. We assessed four predefined NCCT signs—Blend Sign [...] Read more.
Background and Purpose: Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Early hematoma expansion (HE) is a key driver of poor outcomes, yet readily available non-contrast CT (NCCT) markers remain underused. We assessed four predefined NCCT signs—Blend Sign (BS), Black Hole Sign (BHS), Irregular Shape (IRS), and Satellite Sign (SS)—and a simple composite score (SUM_BBIS, 0–4) for their association with HE and in-hospital mortality. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 404 consecutive adults with primary spontaneous ICH admitted to a tertiary-care center between January 2017 and December 2023. Patients with secondary causes of hemorrhage or without follow-up NCCT were excluded. Each sign was scored dichotomously by blinded readers and summed to form the SUM_BBIS. HE was defined as a >6 mL or >33% volume increase on repeat NCCT within 24–48 h. Outcomes included HE and in-hospital mortality; secondary analyses explored relationships with baseline hematoma volume, location, intraventricular extension (IVH), and comorbidities. Results: Among 404 patients, Irregular Shape was most frequent (62.1%), followed by Satellite Sign (34.9%), Black Hole Sign (31.1%), and Blend Sign (15.3%). Hematoma expansion occurred in 22.0% (89/404). Expansion was more common when ≥1 sign was present, with the Black Hole Sign showing the strongest association (56.2% vs. 23.8%; p < 0.001). In-hospital mortality rose stepwise with higher SUM_BBIS (mean 1.95 in non-survivors vs. 0.93 in survivors; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The four predefined NCCT signs, particularly BHS, identify ICH patients at increased risk of HE and in-hospital death. A simple, purely imaging-based composite (SUM_BBIS) captures cumulative radiological complexity and stratifies risk in a stepwise manner. Systematic evaluation of these markers may enhance early triage and inform timely therapeutic decisions, especially in emergency and resource-limited settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurology)
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28 pages, 68775 KB  
Article
Machine Learning Approaches for Predicting Lithological and Petrophysical Parameters in Hydrocarbon Exploration: A Case Study from the Carpathian Foredeep
by Drozd Arkadiusz, Topór Tomasz, Lis-Śledziona Anita and Sowiżdżał Krzysztof
Energies 2025, 18(17), 4521; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174521 - 26 Aug 2025
Viewed by 607
Abstract
This study presents a novel approach to the parametrization of 3D PETRO FACIES and SEISMO FACIES using supervised and unsupervised learning, supported by a coherent structural and stratigraphic framework, to enhance understanding of the presence of hydrocarbons in the Dzików–Uszkowce region. The prediction [...] Read more.
This study presents a novel approach to the parametrization of 3D PETRO FACIES and SEISMO FACIES using supervised and unsupervised learning, supported by a coherent structural and stratigraphic framework, to enhance understanding of the presence of hydrocarbons in the Dzików–Uszkowce region. The prediction relies on selected seismic attributes and well logging data, which are essential in hydrocarbon exploration. Three-dimensional seismic data, a crucial source of information, reflect the propagation velocity of elastic waves influenced by lithological formations and reservoir fluids. However, seismic response similarities complicate accurate seismic image interpretation. Three-dimensional seismic data were also used to build a structural–stratigraphic model that partitions the study area into coeval strata, enabling spatial analysis of the machine learning results. In the 3D seismic model, PETRO FACIES classification achieved an overall accuracy of 80% (SD = 0.01), effectively distinguishing sandstone- and mudstone-dominated facies (RT1–RT4) with F1 scores between 0.65 and 0.85. RESERVOIR FACIES prediction, covering seven hydrocarbon system classes, reached an accuracy of 70% (SD = 0.01). However, class-level performance varied substantially. Non-productive zones such as HNF (No Flow) were identified with high precision (0.82) and recall (0.84, F1 = 0.83), while mixed-saturation facies (HWGS, BSWGS) showed moderate performance (F1 = 0.74–0.81). In contrast, gas-saturated classes (BSGS and HGS) suffered from extremely low F1 scores (0.08 and 0.12, respectively), with recalls as low as 5–7%, highlighting the model’s difficulty in discriminating these units from water-saturated or mixed facies due to overlapping seismic responses and limited training data for gas-rich intervals. To enhance reservoir characterization, SEISMO FACIES analysis identified 12 distinct seismic facies using key attributes. An additional facies (facies 13) was defined to characterize gas-saturated sandstones with high reservoir quality and accumulation potential. Refinements were performed using borehole data on hydrocarbon-bearing zones and clay volume (VCL), applying a 0.3 VCL cutoff and filtering specific facies to isolate zones with confirmed gas presence. The same approach was applied to PETRO FACIES and a new RT facie was extracted. This integrated approach improved mapping of lithological variability and hydrocarbon saturation in complex geological settings. The results were validated against two blind wells that were excluded from the machine learning process. Knowledge of the presence of gas in well N-1 and its absence in well D-24 guided verification of the models within the structural–stratigraphic framework. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section H1: Petroleum Engineering)
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13 pages, 916 KB  
Article
Permanence of Cognitive Alterations in Post- and Long COVID Patients: Glia and Brain Alteration, Gender Differences and New Diabetes Diagnosis
by Concetta Mezzatesta, Davide Brancato, Francesca Provenzano, Simone Marchese, Maria Luisa Savona, Sara Bazzano, Rosa Gesualdo, Francesco Cannia, Angela Eleonora Porcino, Mario Tambone Reyes and Vincenzo Provenzano
Diabetology 2025, 6(9), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology6090086 - 26 Aug 2025
Viewed by 592
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 has been associated with multisystemic sequelae, including persistent neurocognitive impairment and emerging metabolic alterations. Growing evidence suggests that glial dysfunction and inflammation may play a pivotal role in both cognitive decline and new-onset diabetes following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Objectives: This study aimed [...] Read more.
Background: COVID-19 has been associated with multisystemic sequelae, including persistent neurocognitive impairment and emerging metabolic alterations. Growing evidence suggests that glial dysfunction and inflammation may play a pivotal role in both cognitive decline and new-onset diabetes following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of cognitive impairments in post-COVID-19 patients and to explore their correlation with new-onset diabetes, neuroanatomical changes, and psychological symptoms, with a specific focus on gender differences. Methods: A total of 245 patients (mean age 56.8 ± 12 years), previously diagnosed with COVID-19, were enrolled between April 2021 and August 2023. Participants underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment (MMSE, Rey-Osterrieth Figure, FAB, Hamilton, STAI, IES-R), structured interviews, and, in a subset, brain MRI. Individuals with pre-existing neurological disorders were excluded. Data were analyzed for cognitive performance, neuroimaging abnormalities, and metabolic outcomes, including new-onset diabetes. Results: Cognitive dysfunction was identified in 87% of participants: mild in 47%, moderate in 21.6%, and severe in 10.8%. Glial alterations on MRI were observed in 51%, hippocampal atrophy in 9%, and temporal lobe reduction in 4%. Notably, 12% of patients developed new-onset diabetes post-COVID, of whom 80% exhibited mild to moderate cognitive deficits. Depressive symptoms were present in 80.9%, and anxiety in 93.5%, with significantly higher incidence in female patients. PTSD symptoms correlated with greater cognitive impairment. Ongoing research into the mechanisms underlying these persistent cognitive impairments in subjects with and without types 1 and 2 diabetes. This paper presents the final data of the research published in the previous article referenced in the bibliography. Conclusions: This study highlights a significant association between cognitive decline and new-onset diabetes in post-COVID patients, likely mediated by systemic inflammation and glial dysfunction. Particularly noteworthy are the findings of neuroanatomical alterations, including nonspecific glial signal changes, hippocampal atrophy, and temporal lobe volume reductions, suggesting post-infectious cerebral vulnerability with potential long-term consequences. These results support the need for integrating cognitive screening, brain neuroimaging, and metabolic monitoring into post-COVID care pathways—especially for women and individuals presenting with anxiety or depressive symptoms. An early and interdisciplinary approach is essential to address the neuro-metabolic and cerebral sequelae of long COVID. Full article
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13 pages, 1147 KB  
Systematic Review
Pleurectomy/Decortication Versus Extrapleural Pneumonectomy in Pleural Mesothelioma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Survival, Mortality, and Surgical Trends
by Margherita Brivio, Matteo Chiari, Claudia Bardoni, Antonio Mazzella, Monica Casiraghi, Lorenzo Spaggiari and Luca Bertolaccini
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(17), 5964; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14175964 - 23 Aug 2025
Viewed by 603
Abstract
Background: The optimal surgical approach for malignant pleural mesothelioma (PM) remains a topic of debate. While extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) offers radical resection, it is associated with significant morbidity. Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) is less extensive but may offer comparable oncologic outcomes with reduced perioperative risk. [...] Read more.
Background: The optimal surgical approach for malignant pleural mesothelioma (PM) remains a topic of debate. While extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) offers radical resection, it is associated with significant morbidity. Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) is less extensive but may offer comparable oncologic outcomes with reduced perioperative risk. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to systematically evaluate and quantitatively compare survival outcomes, 30-day postoperative mortality, and baseline characteristics between patients undergoing P/D and EPP for PM. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus were searched up to May 2025. Studies comparing EPP and P/D in PM that reported on survival, mortality, or baseline demographics were included. Data from 24 retrospective studies were extracted. Pooled estimates were calculated using random-effects models. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses were performed by geographic region and publication year. Results: P/D was associated with a significantly improved overall survival compared to EPP in the primary analysis (mean difference = 7.01 months; 95% CI: 1.15–12.86; p = 0.018), with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 98.5%). In a sensitivity analysis excluding one statistical outlier, the survival benefit remained significant (mean difference = 4.31 months; 95% CI: 1.69–6.93), and heterogeneity was markedly reduced. The 30-day mortality rate was also significantly lower for P/D (odds ratio = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.13–0.88; p = 0.027). Patients undergoing P/D were, on average, 3.78 years older than those undergoing EPP (p < 0.001), whereas no significant difference was observed in the sex distribution between groups. Subgroup analyses by region and publication year confirmed the robustness of the findings. Meta-regression did not reveal substantial modifiers of survival. Conclusions: P/D demonstrates superior overall survival and reduced perioperative mortality compared to EPP, without evidence of baseline demographic confounding. These findings, derived from retrospective comparative studies, support the preferential use of P/D in eligible patients, particularly in high-volume centers, given its favorable safety profile and superior median survival. However, the absence of randomized trials directly comparing P/D and EPP and the potential influence of patient selection warrant cautious interpretation, and surgical decisions should be tailored to individual patient factors within a multidisciplinary setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)
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14 pages, 2032 KB  
Article
Pandemic Disruptions to Private Pathology Testing Uptake in Australia, 2019–2024
by Melanie Keech, Shane Kavanagh, John Crothers, Liliana Orellana and Catherine M. Bennett
Pathogens 2025, 14(8), 812; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14080812 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 585
Abstract
A new human pathogen triggering a pandemic can impact health directly through disease resulting from infection and indirectly through health system disruption. The COVID-19 pandemic is hypothesised to have impacted pathology testing by impacting healthcare and pathology operations and reducing healthcare attendance for [...] Read more.
A new human pathogen triggering a pandemic can impact health directly through disease resulting from infection and indirectly through health system disruption. The COVID-19 pandemic is hypothesised to have impacted pathology testing by impacting healthcare and pathology operations and reducing healthcare attendance for fear of infection. The impacts of COVID-19 incidence and pandemic control measures on non-COVID pathology testing were assessed in four Australian states/territories using pathology data (histology, prostate-specific antigen, gynaecological cytology, complete blood count, haemoglobin A1c, and human immunodeficiency virus) from a large national private pathology provider (January 2019–December 2024). Weekly testing volumes from lockdown periods were compared to the equivalent weeks in 2019. All pathology tests demonstrated a substantial decline during the initial national lockdown in March 2020. Subsequent lockdowns were also associated with disruption. For example, complete blood count testing in Victoria was −22% in March 2020 and −5% in the second wave that year. Total annual testing volumes were lower for all tests in 2020 compared to 2019, excluding haemoglobin A1c, and reduced testing persisted through to 2024. The findings indicate substantial and sustained negative pandemic impacts on pathology testing. Reductions in pathology testing signal heightened risk of delayed disease diagnosis, disrupted chronic disease management, and poorer health outcomes. Full article
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16 pages, 519 KB  
Systematic Review
Neurological Complications Following Temporomandibular Joint Injections in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review of Reported Adverse Events
by Maciej Chęciński, Kamila Chęcińska, Izabella Chyży, Kamila Walkowiak, Natalia Turosz, Bartosz Kosiński, Sebastian Zduński, Dariusz Chlubek and Maciej Sikora
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5770; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165770 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 718
Abstract
Background: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injections and arthrocentesis are commonly used minimally invasive methods for treating temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Although considered safe, they can cause neurological complications. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize all identified evidence for neurological adverse events following [...] Read more.
Background: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injections and arthrocentesis are commonly used minimally invasive methods for treating temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Although considered safe, they can cause neurological complications. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize all identified evidence for neurological adverse events following intra-articular TMJ interventions. Methods: This review was based on a systematic search with BASE, DOAJ, PubMed, SciELO, and Semantic Scholar on 28 May 2025. It included primary studies involving patients diagnosed with TMDs who underwent intra-articular injections into the TMJ or were treated with arthrocentesis, and in whom neurological adverse effects associated with the intra-articular intervention were reported. Studies reporting non-specific symptoms or unrelated systemic conditions were excluded. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute’s critical appraisal tools. Results were presented in summary tables. Results: The search yielded five eligible studies comprising 319 patients, of whom 320 neurological adverse events were reported. Included studies comprised a randomized controlled trial, two retrospective studies, and two case reports. Four studies had a low risk of bias, and one had a moderate risk of bias according to the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tools. The proportion of patients affected ranged from 14% to 65% depending on the study design and intervention type. The most common adverse event was transient facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) paralysis, mainly involving the temporal and zygomatic branches. Less commonly reported complications involved the trigeminal nerve branches (V1, V3). There is also a single case of epidural hematoma with palsy of the oculomotor nerve (III). Most symptoms resolved spontaneously within a few hours to a few days. The use of local anesthesia and large volumes of irrigation (60 mL) during arthrocentesis increases the risk of complications. Attempts to explain the mechanisms of complications include local anesthetic diffusion, compression neuropraxia due to lavage fluid leakage, and corticosteroid neurotoxicity. One of the limitations of the study is the scarcity of data. Conclusions: Although most adverse events are mild and reversible, these findings highlight that precise, real-time guided injection and careful control of lavage volumes can minimize extra-articular spread of anesthetics or fluids, thereby reducing the likelihood of neurological complications. This study received no funding. PROSPERO ID number: CRD420251088170. Full article
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17 pages, 773 KB  
Article
Off-Clamp Robotic-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy: Retrospective Comparative Analysis from a Large Italian Multicentric Series
by Angelo Porreca, Filippo Marino, Davide De Marchi, Marco Giampaoli, Francesca Simonetti, Antonio Amodeo, Paolo Corsi, Francesco Claps, Daniele Romagnoli, Alessandro Crestani and Luca Di Gianfrancesco
Cancers 2025, 17(16), 2645; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17162645 - 13 Aug 2025
Viewed by 679
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the perioperative outcomes, functional impact, and oncologic efficacy of off-clamp robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in patients with renal masses across multiple high-volume centers. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective multicenter study including 563 patients (group 1) who underwent clampless [...] Read more.
Objective: To evaluate the perioperative outcomes, functional impact, and oncologic efficacy of off-clamp robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in patients with renal masses across multiple high-volume centers. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective multicenter study including 563 patients (group 1) who underwent clampless RAPN between January 2018 and December 2024. Patients with solitary kidneys, tumors >7 cm, or prior renal surgery were excluded. The standardized surgical technique involved tumor resection without clamping of the renal artery, followed by the use of hemostatic agents and standard/selective suturing of the resection bed on demand. Patients in group 1 were compared to 244 consecutive patients treated in the same centres and treated with RAPN with an on-clamp procedure (group 2). Primary outcomes included operative time, blood loss, and complications, while secondary outcomes assessed renal function preservation and oncologic control at an at least 12-month follow-up. Results: The median operative time was 118 min (IQR: 100–140 min), and median estimated blood loss was 150 mL (range: 50–400 mL). The overall complication rate was 9.2%, with most classified as Clavien–Dindo Grade I–II. No intraoperative conversions to open surgery were recorded. Renal function was well preserved, with a median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline of 4.1% at three months (p > 0.05), and no cases of acute kidney injury. Oncologic outcomes were favorable, with a positive surgical margin rate (PSM) of 2.4% and two cases of tumor recurrences (0.36%) documented at a 12-month follow-up. Conclusions: The off-clamp RAPN is a safe and effective nephron-sparing approach, offering significant renal function preservation while maintaining oncologic efficacy. This technique minimizes ischemia–reperfusion injury and post-surgical fibrosis, providing a viable alternative to on-clamp RAPN. Further prospective trials are warranted to confirm long-term benefits and refine patient selection criteria. Full article
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11 pages, 1626 KB  
Article
Integrating PSA Change with PSA Density Enhances Diagnostic Accuracy and Helps Avoid Unnecessary Prostate Biopsies
by Yi-Ju Chou, Bor-En Jong and Yao-Chou Tsai
Diagnostics 2025, 15(16), 2027; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15162027 - 13 Aug 2025
Viewed by 805
Abstract
Background: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels can be transiently elevated in benign conditions. Therefore, guidelines recommend repeat PSA testing before a biopsy. However, PSA should be adjusted for the prostate volume to improve its predictive accuracy for prostate cancer. This study aimed to compare [...] Read more.
Background: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels can be transiently elevated in benign conditions. Therefore, guidelines recommend repeat PSA testing before a biopsy. However, PSA should be adjusted for the prostate volume to improve its predictive accuracy for prostate cancer. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of the PSA density and PSA change for prostate cancer and to evaluate whether their combination can further reduce unnecessary biopsies. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent a prostate biopsy between January 2020 and December 2024. Inclusion criteria were an initial PSA level between 3 and 20 ng/mL and two PSA measurements within an eight-week interval prior to the biopsy. Patients using 5-alpha reductase inhibitors before the biopsy were excluded. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the curve (AUC) were used to compare the diagnostic performance of each predictor for prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). Results: A total of 291 patients were included. Patients with prostate cancer had higher PSA levels, smaller PSA declines, and a higher PSA density. The PSA density showed a superior diagnostic accuracy compared with the PSA change for both prostate cancer and csPCa. The PSA density calculated by a transrectal ultrasound or MRI yielded a similar diagnostic performance. However, the accuracy of the PSA density decreased in patients with a large prostate volume. Incorporating a criterion of a >20% PSA decline to exclude biopsy candidates improved the performance of the PSA density and further reduced unnecessary biopsies. Conclusions: The PSA density demonstrates good diagnostic accuracy for predicting prostate cancer. However, incorporating the PSA change further reduces unnecessary biopsies. Therefore, combining both factors provides a more effective approach for determining the need for a prostate biopsy. Full article
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13 pages, 675 KB  
Article
A Fully Replicable Exercise Program for Individuals with Sleep-Disordered Breathing: Protocol Design and Training Load Monitoring
by Jose M. Saavedra, Katrin Y. Fridgeirsdottir, Conor J. Murphy, Harald Hrubos-Strøm and Erna S. Arnardottir
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(3), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10030311 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 681
Abstract
Objectives. The objectives of this study were (i) to design in detail an exercise program for individuals with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) that would be reproducible, and (ii) to present a system for monitoring training load (volume × intensity) within such a program. [...] Read more.
Objectives. The objectives of this study were (i) to design in detail an exercise program for individuals with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) that would be reproducible, and (ii) to present a system for monitoring training load (volume × intensity) within such a program. Methods. A comprehensive exercise program was developed for individuals with SDB, detailing not only the session structure (warm-up, main part—circuit training and brisk walking—and cool-down) but also the specific exercises, training volume (actual exercise time excluding rest), intensity (Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion—RPE), and training load (calculated as time × RPE, in arbitrary units). This detailed program was previously implemented in a RCT (ISRCTN16974764). A comparison was also made between the planned and performed intensity, and training load through a paired t-test. Results. A fully replicable program was presented. No significant difference was found between the planned and performed training load (p = 0.482). When analyzed by week, a significant difference was found only for overestimation in weeks 9–12 (p < 0.001). Conclusions. In general terms, it can be concluded that a detailed exercise program was described for individuals with SDB. The program is reproducible in terms of content, training volume, intensity, and load. Moreover, the RPE proved to be a valid parameter for quantifying intensity, allowing for the integration of all parts of the session, as well as various types of content. The planned and performed programs (as quantified via participants’ RPE) matched appropriately. Therefore, this program can be reproduced and applied to this type of population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)
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