Search Results (25,606)

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to compare gait patterns between young adults and physically active older adults. Additionally, the relation between these parameters and age was explored. Materials and Methods: Transversal case and control study, recruiting 81 participants divided into two groups: young adults (18–45 years) and physically active older adults (60+ years). Participants were assessed using the PodoSmart Insole^® system, which recorded spatiotemporal and kinematic gait data. Gait parameters were measured during a self-selected walking test. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, t-tests for group comparisons, and Pearson’s correlation to explore relationships between age and gait parameters. Results: Significant differences in gait parameters were found between young and older adults, particularly in stride length (right foot: p = 0.009, left foot: p = 0.001), cadence (p < 0.001), contact time (p < 0.001), swing time (p < 0.001), and support phase duration (p < 0.001), with moderate to large effect sizes. Sex differences were also observed within each group for several gait variables. Correlation analysis evidenced worsened parameters with increasing age, with moderate to strong associations in terms of cadence (r = −0.590), contact time (r = −0.504, r = −0.462), swing time (r = −0.662), and support phase duration (r = −0.524, r = −0.439). Conclusions: Evident differences in gait parameters are observed between young adults and active older adults. Although these results follow the trend of previous studies that employed more sophisticated lab-based protocols for gait analysis, slight differences between our study and these others could be attributed to the regular physical activity performed by these participants, which should be explored in more detail in future studies. Full article

This research investigates the statistical correlation between Vickers hardness and tensile properties of helical submerged arc welded high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) API X70 pipeline steel. Tensile tests were performed on cross-weld joints from 138 pipe specimens. Vickers hardness measurements were also conducted on 138 samples to evaluate the hardness distribution across the base metal, fusion zone, and heat-affected zone. Results show that the fusion zone exhibits the highest hardness, correlating with enhanced tensile strength (R² = 82%). Linear regression models indicate that base metal hardness significantly influences yield strength (R² = 71%), while moderate negative correlations exist with elongation (R² = 54%). These findings suggest that hardness measurements can serve as a non-destructive predictive tool for tensile properties, improving weld quality and mechanical performance. This research provides empirical models that enhance the application of API X70 in critical engineering applications, improving pipeline safety and reliability. Full article

While corticosteroids affect bile acid metabolism in humans and dogs, their impact on serum bile acids in cats is unknown. Moreover, the early effects of corticosteroids on liver enzyme activity in cats are not well understood. We prospectively studied seven healthy cats (4–7 years) treated with oral prednisolone (1.1–1.5 mg/kg, median 1.28 mg/kg PO daily) for 7 days. Serum bile acids and liver enzyme activities (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT) were measured before treatment (day 0) and at days 2, 3, 8, 10, and 14. Statistical analysis used the Friedman test with post hoc comparisons to baseline. At baseline, bile acids were within reference interval (1–6.5 μmol/L) (median 2.1 μmol/L, range 1–3.2) and increased significantly during treatment with prednisolone to a median of 5.3 μmol/L (range 1.8–8.7) at d8, but remained below clinically abnormal levels. In contrast, AST, ALT, and ALP activities decreased significantly during prednisolone administration. GGT activities were undetectable at all times. We conclude that, although prednisolone significantly affected bile acids, the effect is likely of limited clinical relevance, as increases were minimal and remained below thresholds considered abnormal. Unexpectedly, transaminase and alkaline phosphatase activities decreased in the first days after administration. The reasons for this remain unclear. Full article

To examine the relationship between the applicability of the Sarcopenia & Quality of Life (SarQoL) questionnaire and physical fitness factors including living environment, body composition, and exercise function of individuals aged over 60 years were analyzed. The study included 551 older adults (129 men, 422 women) aged 60–100 years, residing in South Korea, and without serious diseases, disabilities, or physical activity limitations. Demographics, health indicators, living conditions, SarQoL survey results, and physical fitness were assessed. Group differences were evaluated using one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test. Hierarchical regression analysis explored the relationship between SarQoL scores and various factors, and multiple logistic regression analyzed the association between SarQoL and exercise variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Sex (B, 0.200; t, 2.233; p < 0.001), age (B, −0.031; t, −6.574; p < 0.001), education level (B, −0.110; t, 3.067; p = 0.002), and regular physical activity influenced SarQoL scores. Physical fitness measures were significantly correlated with SarQoL scores. Additionally, conditions such as diabetes, sleep disorders, and sarcopenia affected SarQoL outcomes. High SarQoL in older adults is associated with higher educational attainment, presence of medical conditions, and improved physical fitness. This underscores the complex interplay of physical and mental health in the aging process and highlights the importance of preventing and managing sarcopenia to improve the quality of life for older adults. Full article

The study examined health-promoting lifestyles and their contributing factors among adolescents and young adults at three universities in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2024. A total of 827 participants were analyzed using the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP-II). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed using JASP to ensure cultural adaptation. Descriptive statistics, an independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, and a MANOVA were employed to analyze the data in SPSS. Post hoc analyses and effect sizes were conducted in cases of significance. The mean HPLP-II score was 2.60 (SD = 0.35). The highest mean score was on the interpersonal relationships subscale (M = 2.89; SD = 0.52), and the lowest was on the health responsibility subscale (M = 2.31; SD = 0.49). Our findings revealed that there were significant differences in the overall HPLP-II scores based on university, working status, and economic status. Additionally, the data revealed that for certain HPLP-II subscales, factors such as gender, residence type, and location of graduation schools were significant. Universities are potential settings for planning and implementing health promotion programs that encourage adolescents and young adults to take responsibility for their health and engage in physical activity. Full article

Water treatment systems in swimming ponds support the natural self-cleaning capabilities of water based on the functions of repository macrophytes in their regeneration zone and the regulation of the internal metabolism of the reservoirs. As part of the project, a functional modular filtration chamber with system multiplication capabilities was designed and created. This element is dedicated to water treatment systems in natural swimming ponds. The prototype system consisted of modular filtration chambers and pump sections, as well as equipment adapted to the conditions prevailing in the eco-pool. An innovative solution for selective shutdown of the filtration chamber without closing the circulation circuit was also used, which forms the basis of a patent application. A verified high-performance adsorbent, Rockfos^® modified limestone, was used in the filtration chamber. In order to determine the effective filtration rate for three small test ponds with different flow rates (5 m/h, 10 m/h and 15 m/h), the selected physicochemical parameters of water (temperature, pH, electrolytical conductivity, oxygen saturation, total hardness, nitrites, nitrates, and total phosphorus, including adsorption efficiency and bed absorption capacity) were researched before and after filtration. Tests were also carried out on the composition of fecal bacteria and phyto- and zooplankton. Based on high effective phosphorus filtration efficiency of 32.65% during the operation of the bed, the following were determined: no exceedances of the standards for the tested parameters in relation to the German standards for eco-pools (FLL—Forschungsgesellschaft Landschaftsentwicklung Landschaftsbau e. V., 2011); lower number of fecal pathogens (on average 393—coliform bacteria; 74—Escherichia coli; 34—fecal enterococci, most probably number/100 mL); the lowest share of problematic cyanobacteria in phytoplankton (<250,000 individuals/dm³ in number and <0.05 µg/dm³—biomass); low chlorophyll a content (2.2 µg/dm³—oligotrophy) and the presence of more favorable smaller forms of zooplankton, an effective filtration speed of 5 m/h. This velocity was recommended in the FLL standards for swimming ponds, which were adopted in this study as a reference for rapid filters. In testing the functional efficiency of a dedicated filtration system for a Type II test pond (50 m²—area and 33 m³—capacity), at a filtration rate of 5 m/h, an average effective phosphorus adsorption efficiency of 18.28–53.98% was observed under the bed work-in-progress conditions. Analyses of other physicochemical water parameters, with appropriate calculations and statistical tests, indicated progressive functional efficiency of the system under bathing conditions. Full article

We present a unified framework for fuzzy statistical convergence of Grünwald–Letnikov (GL) fractional differences in Bag–Samanta fuzzy normed linear spaces, addressing memory effects and nonlocality inherent to fractional-order models. Theoretically, we establish the uniqueness, linearity, and invariance of fuzzy statistical limits and prove a Cauchy characterization: fuzzy statistical convergence implies fuzzy statistical Cauchyness, while the converse holds in fuzzy-complete spaces (and in the completion, otherwise). We further develop an inclusion theory linking fuzzy strong Cesàro summability—including weighted means—to fuzzy statistical convergence. Via the discrete Q-operator, all statements transfer verbatim between nabla-left and delta-right GL forms, clarifying the binomial GL↔discrete Riemann–Liouville correspondence. Beyond structure, we propose density-based residual diagnostics for GL discretizations of fractional initial-value problems: when GL residuals are fuzzy statistically negligible, trajectories exhibit Ulam–Hyers-type robustness in the fuzzy topology. We also formulate a fuzzy Korovkin-type approximation principle under GL smoothing: Cesàro control on the test set $\{1,x,x^2\}$ propagates to arbitrary targets, yielding fuzzy statistical convergence for positive-operator sequences. Worked examples and an engineering-style case study (thermal balance with memory and bursty disturbances) illustrate how the diagnostics certify robustness of GL numerical schemes under sparse spikes and imprecise data. Full article

Background and Objectives: Multiple primary malignancies involving endometrial carcinoma (EC) present complex diagnostic and management challenges. This study aimed to identify clinical, pathological, and demographic patterns among patients with EC and a second primary tumor and assess the role of comorbidities in tumor behavior. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 35 women diagnosed with EC and a second malignancy between 2017 and 2024. We evaluated clinical variables, tumor characteristics, and comorbidities. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, Kruskal–Wallis tests, Spearman correlations, and logistic regression. Multiple testing correction was applied using the Benjamini–Hochberg method. Results: Endometrioid EC was the most prevalent subtype (80%), most frequently associated with breast (28.5%) and colorectal cancers (11.4%). Obesity (45.7%), hypertension (62.9%), and diabetes (22.9%) were common. While univariate analysis suggested associations between comorbidities and tumor features (e.g., obesity and tumor type, ρ = 0.30, p = 0.08), no correlation remained significant after adjustment. Logistic regression identified age (OR = 0.88, CI: 0.79–0.98, p = 0.022) and obesity (OR = 0.11, CI: 0.01–0.83, p = 0.033) as independent predictors of non-endometrioid histology. Conclusions: These findings suggest that age and obesity may influence histological differentiation in EC with multiple primaries. This study suggest that age and obesity may play a role in the histological differentiation of EC in patients with multiple primary tumors. The small cohort size (n = 35) limits the statistical power and generalizability of the results; therefore, they should be regarded as exploratory and hypothesis-generating, warranting validation in larger prospective studies. Full article

This article focuses on two dimensions of social sustainability in contemporary cities: (1) social participation as a form of communication between residents and city authorities and (2) urban inclusivity. The assessment of these dimensions was conducted on a representative sample of 1863 residents from 19 Polish cities, seeking to answer the following research question: How do residents assess two key dimensions of social sustainability: social participation and urban inclusivity? The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests. The findings indicate that social participation in the studied cities is not fully developed. Respondents positively evaluate the idea of participatory budgets but are not satisfied with the cooperation between city authorities and residents, or with the possibilities for controlling local government actions. In terms of urban inclusivity, residents perceive themselves as quite open to diversity, but critically assess the city authorities’ efforts to counteract social exclusion. The research also shows that despite similar regional conditions, the social sustainability varies considerably, which highlights the importance of local policy in creating fully sustainable Smart Cities. The findings advance Smart City theory through practical social sustainability assessment and identification of improvement areas. This diagnosis provides insights for municipal authorities and offers guidance for policymakers developing legislation to foster social sustainability, strengthen civic participation, and combat urban exclusion. Full article

This study evaluates the economic dimension of sustainable supply chain efficiency among Korean automotive suppliers using an SCOR-aligned two-stage Network Range-Adjusted Measure (NRAM) Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model. The framework separates performance into Stage 1 (internal operations: Plan/Source/Make/Deliver) and Stage 2 (external outcomes: sales and profitability), enabling stage-specific assessment of operational versus market-facing efficiency. Firm-level financial data for about 1200 suppliers annually from 2021 to 2024, spanning five sectors, were analyzed with descriptive statistics, visualizations, and non-parametric tests. Results show that Stage 1 efficiency was consistently high and stable, while Stage 2 efficiency was lower, more variable, and declined in 2022 and 2024, revealing vulnerability to systemic market disruptions. Overall efficiency mirrored Stage 2, underscoring the fact that downstream financial outcomes drive total performance. Rather than introducing a new methodology, the contribution of this study lies in applying an established two-stage NRAM DEA within an SCOR-aligned framework to a large-scale longitudinal dataset. This application provides sectoral and temporal benchmarks on a national scale, offering evidence-based insights into how structural interdependence and systemic shocks influence supply chain efficiency. While the scope is limited to the economic pillar of sustainability, the findings contribute contextualized benchmarks that can inform managerial practice and future research integrating environmental and social performance dimensions. Full article

Background: Depression is a significant public health concern, with working mothers at greater risk due to combined biological and psychosocial stressors. Recent evidence suggests that inner strength may play a mediating role in the link between biological risks and depression. Objectives: The primary objective was to determine whether inner strength mediates the relationship between biological risk factors (hormonal fluctuations, smoking, alcohol use, family psychiatric history, and physical diseases) and depressive symptoms among Chinese working mothers. A secondary objective was to assess the prevalence of depressive symptoms in this population, measured with the OI-Depression subscale (Outcome Inventory-21). Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 330 Chinese working mothers aged 30–45 years, using validated instruments to measure depression, inner strength, and parental stress. Mediation analysis evaluated the indirect effect of inner strength, while covariate-adjusted regression analyses explored associated factors. Results: Biological risk factors showed a significant direct effect (β = 0.584, p < 0.001) and an indirect effect through inner strength (indirect effect = 0.623, 95% CI [0.294, 0.962]. The Sobel test indicated that the indirect effect of biological risk factors on depressive symptoms through inner strength was statistically significant (z = 3.67, p < 0.001). The prevalence of clinically significant depressive symptoms was 38.2%. Conclusions: Biological factors significantly contribute to depressive symptoms, but inner strength partially mediates this relationship, suggesting that interventions to enhance inner strength may help reduce depression risk in working mothers. Further research should investigate strategies to build inner resilience in this population. Full article

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most prevalent and deadly malignancies worldwide. Despite advancements in screening and treatment, its aggressive progression and tendency to metastasize remain major challenges. Biomarkers such as cathepsins B and D, actin isoforms, and cysteine protease inhibitors may influence tumor invasion and metastasis. However, little is known about their spatial distribution in tumor versus surrounding tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the location-dependent expression of selected biomarkers in CRC tissue to better understand their role in cancer progression. Tissue samples were obtained intraoperatively from 37 CRC patients at three locations: the tumor center, and 2 cm and 5 cm from the tumor margin. The activity and concentrations of cathepsins B and D, anti-papain activity, and actin fractions (globular [G-], filamentous [F-], and total actin [T-actin]) were measured using biochemical and spectrophotometric assays. Statistical analyses included ANOVA, MANOVA, and non-parametric tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Cathepsin B activity was significantly elevated at the tumor center and decreased with distance from the tumor (p < 0.001). F-actin and T-actin levels followed a similar pattern, with significantly higher values near the tumor core (p < 0.05). Differences in G-actin were less pronounced. No significant spatial variation was found for cathepsin D, or anti-papain activity. The G-actin/T-actin and F-actin/G-actin ratios revealed significant shifts in actin polymerization states depending on the distance from the tumor. This study demonstrates spatial heterogeneity in the expression of key biomarkers in CRC tissues. Elevated levels of cathepsin B and altered actin dynamics in tumor regions suggest their involvement in local invasion and progression. Full article

This study aimed to determine the optimal application sequence of cold atmospheric helium plasma (CAP) with fluoride varnish to enhance enamel protection and fluoride uptake. A total of 91 bovine incisor teeth were randomly assigned into seven groups (n = 13 each): negative control (C, no treatment), comparative controls [helium gas (He, gas only)], helium plasma (P, plasma only)], positive control [fluoride varnish (V)], and three experimental groups: plasma followed by varnish (PV), varnish followed by plasma (VP), and plasma before and after varnish (PVP). Specimens were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and microhardness testing at 0, 24, and 48 h post-treatment. SEM revealed that helium plasma treatment enhanced the even dispersion of fluoride and reduced imperfections on the enamel surface. EDX analysis indicated significant alterations in the elemental composition, particularly with respect to the amount of fluoride (F) and the calcium-to-phosphorus (Ca/P) ratios. In the PVP group (CAP before and after varnish), the fluoride atomic percentage increased notably from 1.21% (varnish group) to 7.31% at 48h. Concurrently, the Ca/P ratio increased from 1.95 to 2.39 corresponding with a statistically significant 24% improvement in enamel hardness (repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction, p < 0.05). The timing of CAP application critically affects fluoride absorption and enamel hardening. This study clearly demonstrates how sequential CAP treatment maximizes fluoride effectiveness, offering a promising route for non-invasive caries prevention. Full article

Background/Objectives: Root canal therapy (RCT) aims to eliminate intracanal infection and promote periapical healing through mechanical instrumentation and chemical disinfection. Conventional irrigants, such as sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), are effective but may exhibit limited penetration into anatomically complex root canal systems and carry the risks of cytotoxicity if extruded beyond the apical foramen or into surrounding periodontal tissues. In this pilot study, we evaluated the clinical effectiveness and safety of underwater discharge plasma (UDP) as a biocompatible alternative to NaOCl for root canal irrigation. Methods: A prospective, randomized clinical trial was conducted involving 30 patients who required root canal treatment. Patients were randomly allocated to the UDP (n = 15) or NaOCl (n = 15) group. All treatments were performed by a single operator following standardized protocols. Pain was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), and periapical healing was evaluated using the Periapical Index (PAI) at baseline, 2 months, and 4 months. Statistical analyses included the Friedman test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Fisher’s exact test. Interobserver agreement for radiographic readings was evaluated using quadratic-weighted Cohen’s kappa coefficient. Results: A total of 28 patients completed the study. VAS scores significantly decreased over time in both groups (p < 0.05), with no significant difference between the groups at any time point (p > 0.05). At 4 months, radiographic healing was observed in 71.4% and 92.9% of patients in the UDP and NaOCl groups, respectively (p > 0.05). PAI score changes and clinical success rates were comparable between groups. No adverse effects or thermal damage was reported when using UDP. Conclusions: UDP demonstrated short-term clinical efficacy and safety comparable to that of NaOCl. Thus, UDP may serve as a biocompatible alternative for root canal disinfection. Further large-scale and long-term studies are warranted to confirm its clinical utility. Full article

Lameness is a significant global welfare and economic problem in dairy farming. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between various claw lesions and locomotion scores (LCS). A total of 491 cows from ten Austrian dairy farms were included in the study. Each cow’s gait was individually evaluated and an ascending locomotion score ranging from 1 to 5 was assigned. Subsequently, functional hoof trimming was conducted on all cows. During this procedure the claws were examined and all lesions electronically documented. For statistical analysis, the prevalence of each LCS was calculated and the distribution of LCS in relation to parity and lactation stage examined. Additionally, a simple chi-square test and a generalised linear mixed model (GLMM) were applied to identify associations between specific types of lesions and LCSs. The results from the GLMM showed significant associations (p < 0.05) between ‘other causes’, thin soles and interdigital hyperplasia with acute digital dermatitis on its surface (IH-DD-M2) and an LCS ≥ 2, between DD-associated claw horn lesions, thin soles, interdigital hyperplasia IH-DD-M2 and an LCS ≥ 3, and between DD-associated claw horn lesions, IH-DD-M2, and ‘infectious claw disorders’ and an LCS ≥ 4. The results emphasise the importance of early and accurate detection of lameness to promptly treat underlying painful claw lesions, thereby promoting improved animal welfare. Full article