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Search Results (3,308)

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19 pages, 470 KiB  
Article
Differential and Integral Equations Involving Multivariate Special Polynomials with Applications in Computer Modeling
by Mohra Zayed, Taghreed Alqurashi, Shahid Ahmad Wani, Dixon Salcedo and Mohammad Esmael Samei
Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(8), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9080512 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This work introduces a new family of multivariate hybrid special polynomials, motivated by their growing relevance in mathematical modeling, physics, and engineering. We explore their core properties, including recurrence relations and shift operators, within a unified structural framework. By employing the factorization method, [...] Read more.
This work introduces a new family of multivariate hybrid special polynomials, motivated by their growing relevance in mathematical modeling, physics, and engineering. We explore their core properties, including recurrence relations and shift operators, within a unified structural framework. By employing the factorization method, we derive various governing equations such as differential, partial differential, and integrodifferential equations. Additionally, we establish a related fractional Volterra integral equation, which broadens the theoretical foundation and potential applications of these polynomials. To support the theoretical development, we carry out computational simulations to approximate their roots and visualize the distribution of their zeros, offering practical insights into their analytical behavior. Full article
43 pages, 1289 KiB  
Article
Big Data Meets Jugaad: Cultural Innovation Strategies for Sustainable Performance in Resource-Constrained Developing Economies
by Xuemei Liu, Assad Latif, Mohammed Maray, Ansar Munir Shah and Muhammad Ramzan
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7087; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157087 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the role of Big Data Analytics Capabilities (BDACs) in ambidexterity explorative innovation (EXPLRI) and exploitative (EXPLOI) innovation for achieving a sustainable performance (SP) in the manufacturing sector of a resource-constrained developing economy. While a BDAC has been widely linked to [...] Read more.
This study investigates the role of Big Data Analytics Capabilities (BDACs) in ambidexterity explorative innovation (EXPLRI) and exploitative (EXPLOI) innovation for achieving a sustainable performance (SP) in the manufacturing sector of a resource-constrained developing economy. While a BDAC has been widely linked to innovation in developed economies, its effectiveness in developing contexts shaped by indigenous innovation practices like Jugaad remains underexplored. Anchored in the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Dynamic Capabilities (DC) theory, we propose a model where the BDAC enhances both EXPLRI and EXPLOI, which subsequently leads to an improved sustainable performance. We further examine the Jugaad capability as a cultural moderator. Using survey data from 418 manufacturing firms and analyzed via Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), results confirm that BDA capabilities significantly boost both types of innovations, which positively impact sustainable performance dimensions. Notably, Jugaad positively moderates the relationship between EXPLOI and financial, innovation, and operational performance but negatively moderates the link between EXPLRI and innovation performance. These findings highlight the nuanced influence of culturally embedded innovation practices in BDAC-driven ecosystems. This study contributes by extending the RBV–DC framework to include cultural innovation capabilities and empirically validating the contingent role of Jugaad in enhancing or constraining innovation outcomes. This study also validated the Jugaad capability measurement instrument for the first time in the context of Pakistan. For practitioners, aligning data analytics strategies with local innovative cultures is vital for sustainable growth in emerging markets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)
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14 pages, 628 KiB  
Article
Variations in the Diagnosis and Management of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Among Physician Specialties in Saudi Arabia: Influence of Clinical Experience and Case Exposure
by Sarah Alshehri, Abdullah Oudah Al Ahmree, Abdulaziz Qobty, Abdullah Musleh and Khalid A. Alahmari
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1887; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151887 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 130
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most prevalent vestibular disorder encountered in clinical settings and is highly responsive to evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. However, variations in practice patterns among physician specialties can compromise timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Understanding [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most prevalent vestibular disorder encountered in clinical settings and is highly responsive to evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. However, variations in practice patterns among physician specialties can compromise timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Understanding these variations is essential for improving clinical outcomes and standardizing care. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic and treatment practices for BPPV among Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists, neurologists, general practitioners, and family physicians in Saudi Arabia and to examine how these practices are influenced by clinical experience and patient case exposure. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted between April 2023 and March 2024 at King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. A total of 413 physicians were recruited using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 24.0. Parametric tests, including one-way ANOVA and chi-square tests, were used to assess differences across groups. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, all physician groups exhibited limited adherence to guideline-recommended positional diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers. However, ENT specialists and neurologists demonstrated relatively higher compliance, particularly in performing the Dix–Hallpike test, with 46.97% and 26.79% reporting “always” using the maneuver, respectively (p < 0.001, Cramér’s V = 0.22). Neurologists were the most consistent in conducting oculomotor examinations, with 73.68% reporting routine performance (p < 0.001, Cramér’s V = 0.35). Epley maneuver usage was highest among neurologists (86.36%) and ENT specialists (77.14%) compared to family physicians (50.60%) and GPs (67.50%) (p = 0.044). Physicians with 11–15 years of experience and >50 BPPV case exposures consistently showed a greater use of diagnostic maneuvers, repositioning techniques, and guideline-concordant medication use (betahistine 76.67%; p < 0.001). Continuing medical education (CME) participation and the avoidance of unnecessary imaging were also highest in this group (46.67% and 3.33%, respectively; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Significant inter-specialty differences exist in the management of BPPV in Saudi Arabia. Greater clinical experience and higher case exposure are associated with improved adherence to evidence-based practices. Targeted educational interventions are needed, particularly in primary care, to enhance guideline implementation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Care and Treatment of Ear, Nose, and Throat)
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29 pages, 1953 KiB  
Article
Individual Genomic Loci, Transcript Levels, and Serum Profiles of Immune and Antioxidant Markers Associated with Bacteria-Induced Abortion in Sheep (Ovis aries)
by Attia Eissa, Ahmed A. Elsayed, Amin Tahoun, Adel M. El-Kattan, Islam M. Wassif, Amani A. Hafez, Ragab Mohamed, Ahmed I. Ateya, Hanan M. Alharbi, Khairiah M. Alwutayd, Aiman A. Ammari, Manal A. Babaker, Mansour A. Alghamdi, Torsten Bohn, Ammar AL-Farga and Hossam M. Aljawdah
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(8), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080719 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 391
Abstract
Aboudeleik sheep are a prominent native breed in desert and semi-desert areas, known for their adaptability to harsh climates and their utility in both milk and meat production [...] Full article
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26 pages, 7326 KiB  
Article
Cocoa Polyphenols Alter the Fecal Microbiome Without Mitigating Colitis in Mice Fed Healthy or Western Basal Diets
by Eliza C. Stewart, Mohammed F. Almatani, Marcus Hayden, Giovanni Rompato, Jeremy Case, Samuel Rice, Korry J. Hintze and Abby D. Benninghoff
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2482; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152482 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 276
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Chronic inflammation and Western-style diets elevate colorectal cancer (CRC) risk, particularly in individuals with colitis, a feature of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Diets rich in polyphenol-containing functional foods, such as cocoa, may reduce gut inflammation and modulate the gut microbiome. This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Chronic inflammation and Western-style diets elevate colorectal cancer (CRC) risk, particularly in individuals with colitis, a feature of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Diets rich in polyphenol-containing functional foods, such as cocoa, may reduce gut inflammation and modulate the gut microbiome. This study investigated the impact of cocoa polyphenol (CP) supplementation on inflammation and microbiome composition in mice with colitis, fed either a healthy or Western diet, before, during, and after the onset of disease. We hypothesized that CPs would attenuate inflammation and promote distinct shifts in the microbiome, especially in the context of a Western diet. Methods: A 2 × 2 factorial design tested the effects of the basal diet (AIN93G vs. total Western diet [TWD]) and CP supplementation (2.6% w/w CocoaVia™ Cardio Health Powder). Inflammation was induced using the AOM/DSS model of colitis. Results: CP supplementation did not reduce the severity of colitis, as measured by disease activity index or histopathology. CPs did not alter gene expression in healthy tissue or suppress the colitis-associated pro-inflammatory transcriptional profile in either of the two diet groups. However, fecal microbiome composition shifted significantly with CPs before colitis induction, with persistent effects on several rare taxa during colitis and recovery. Conclusions: CP supplementation did not mitigate inflammation or mucosal injury at the tissue level, nor did it affect the expression of immune-related genes. While CPs altered microbiome composition, most notably in healthy mice before colitis, these shifts did not correspond to changes in inflammatory signaling. Basal diet remained the primary determinant of inflammation, mucosal damage, and colitis severity in this model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)
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29 pages, 2504 KiB  
Review
Bridging Gaps in Vaccine Access and Equity: A Middle Eastern Perspective
by Laith N. AL-Eitan, Diana L. Almahdawi, Rabi A. Abu Khiarah and Mansour A. Alghamdi
Vaccines 2025, 13(8), 806; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13080806 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 483
Abstract
Vaccine equity and access remain critical challenges in global health, particularly in regions with complex socio-political landscapes, like the Middle East. This review examines disparities in vaccine distribution within the Middle Eastern context, analyzing the unique challenges and opportunities across the region. It [...] Read more.
Vaccine equity and access remain critical challenges in global health, particularly in regions with complex socio-political landscapes, like the Middle East. This review examines disparities in vaccine distribution within the Middle Eastern context, analyzing the unique challenges and opportunities across the region. It provides an overview of the area’s diverse finances and its impact on healthcare accessibility. We examine vaccination rates and identify critical barriers to vaccination, which may be particular issues in developing countries, such as vaccine thermostability, logistical hurdles, financial constraints, and socio-cultural factors, or broader problems, like political instability, economic limitations, and deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure. However, we also highlight successful efforts at the regional and national levels to improve vaccine equity, along with their outcomes and impacts. Ultimately, by drawing on the experiences of previous programs and initiatives, we propose strategies to bridge the gaps in vaccine access through sustainable financing, local manufacturing, and the strengthening of health systems. This approach emphasizes the importance of regional collaboration and long-term self-sufficiency in enhancing global health security and achieving more equitable outcomes in the Middle East. Full article
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19 pages, 503 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Value at Risk Estimation in Multi-Functional Volterra Time-Series Model (MFVTSM)
by Fatimah A. Almulhim, Mohammed B. Alamari, Ali Laksaci and Mustapha Rachdi
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081207 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 355
Abstract
In this paper, we aim to provide a new algorithm for managing financial risk in portfolios containing multiple high-volatility assets. We assess the variability of volatility with the Volterra model, and we construct an estimator of the Value-at-Risk (VaR) function using quantile regression. [...] Read more.
In this paper, we aim to provide a new algorithm for managing financial risk in portfolios containing multiple high-volatility assets. We assess the variability of volatility with the Volterra model, and we construct an estimator of the Value-at-Risk (VaR) function using quantile regression. Because of its long-memory property, the Volterra model is particularly useful in this domain of financial time series data analysis. It constitutes a good alternative to the standard approach of Black–Scholes models. From the weighted asymmetric loss function, we construct a new estimator of the VaR function usable in Multi-Functional Volterra Time Series Model (MFVTSM). The constructed estimator highlights the multi-functional nature of the Volterra–Gaussian process. Mathematically, we derive the asymptotic consistency of the estimator through the precision of the leading term of its convergence rate. Through an empirical experiment, we examine the applicability of the proposed algorithm. We further demonstrate the effectiveness of the estimator through an application to real financial data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mathematics)
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6 pages, 180 KiB  
Editorial
Biofunctional Pharmaceutical Additives for Targeted, Improved Bioavailability and Safety of Medicine
by Hamdy Abdelkader, Adel Al Fatease and Zimei Wu
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080978 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 238
Abstract
For many decades, conventional pharmaceutical excipients have been used to optimize the palatability, processing ability, flowability, and compressibility of various types of medication throughout the production process [...] Full article
13 pages, 264 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Relationship Between High D-Dimer Levels and the In-Hospital Mortality Among COVID-19 Patients: A Moroccan Study
by Bouchra Benfathallah, Abdellatif Boutagayout, Abha Cherkani Hassani, Hassan Ihazmade, Redouane Abouqal and Laila Benchekroun
COVID 2025, 5(8), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/covid5080116 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 196
Abstract
This study included 221 patients with COVID-19 who were admitted to the emergency department of Avicenne Hospital in Rabat between August 2020 and August 2021. Patients were divided into three groups according to their D-dimer levels (<1, 1–2, and >2 µg/mL). Adjusted and [...] Read more.
This study included 221 patients with COVID-19 who were admitted to the emergency department of Avicenne Hospital in Rabat between August 2020 and August 2021. Patients were divided into three groups according to their D-dimer levels (<1, 1–2, and >2 µg/mL). Adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between elevated D-dimer levels and in-hospital mortality. Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationship between D-dimer levels and various biological and clinical parameters. The results revealed a statistically significant difference in the mean (SD) age among the three groups (p = 0.006). Analysis showed a statistically significant difference in the means (SD) of oxygen saturation, duration of hospital stay, and breathing rate among the three independent groups of COVID-19 patients. Patients with elevated D-dimer levels (greater than 2 µg/mL) experienced worse outcomes than those in the other groups, with severity, transfer to intensive care, and in-hospital mortality of 55 (40.7%), 35 (16%), and 24 (11%) patients, respectively, with p-values of 0.048, 0.002, and 0.002, respectively. Patients in the D-dimer > 2 µg/mL group had significantly higher C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase, urea, cardiac troponin, B-type natriuretic peptide, and ferritin levels than those in the other two groups. The p-value was significant among the three groups (p = 0.044, p = 0.001, and p < 0.001). Age and elevated D-dimer levels (greater than 2 µg/mL) were associated with mortality in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Correlation analysis indicated that D-dimer in COVID-19 patients is associated with worsening respiratory, hepatic, cardiac, and coagulation parameters, suggesting their utility as an integrative marker of disease severity. D-dimer levels > 2 µg/mL were identified as an independent risk factor for COVID-19 in-hospital mortality. Measuring and monitoring D-dimer levels can assist clinicians in taking timely actions and predicting the prognosis of patients with COVID-19. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section COVID Clinical Manifestations and Management)
7 pages, 206 KiB  
Reply
Reply to Pantokratoras, A. Comment on “Khan et al. Impact of Irregular Heat Sink/Source on the Wall Jet Flow and Heat Transfer in a Porous Medium Induced by a Nanofluid with Slip and Buoyancy Effects. Symmetry 2022, 14, 2212”
by Umair Khan, Aurang Zaib, Anuar Ishak, Samia Elattar, Sayed M. Eldin, Zehba Raizah, Iskandar Waini and Muhammad Waqas
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1191; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081191 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 188
Abstract
Governing Equations [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mathematics)
12 pages, 744 KiB  
Article
Interns’ Abuse Across the Healthcare Specialties in Saudi Arabian Hospitals and Its Effects on Their Mental Health
by Farah A. Alghamdi, Bushra M. Alghamdi, Atheer A. Alghamdi, Miad A. Alzahrani, Basmah Ahmed Qasem, Atheel Ali Alshehri, Alwaleed K. Aloufi, Mohammed H. Hakami, Rawaa Ismail Mohammed Ismail, Alaa H. Hakami, Ahmed Elabwabi Abdelwahab and Sultan Mishref Alghmdi
Psychiatry Int. 2025, 6(3), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint6030089 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 346
Abstract
Healthcare abuse is a critical human rights and public health issue, particularly impacting medical interns and trainees who are vulnerable to mistreatment during their formative professional years. This cross-sectional study, conducted from February to June 2024, evaluated the prevalence and psychological impact of [...] Read more.
Healthcare abuse is a critical human rights and public health issue, particularly impacting medical interns and trainees who are vulnerable to mistreatment during their formative professional years. This cross-sectional study, conducted from February to June 2024, evaluated the prevalence and psychological impact of harassment and discrimination among 463 healthcare interns in Saudi Arabia from various specialties, including medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and dentistry. Using a self-administered online questionnaire, we found that mistreatment was widely reported, with female interns experiencing significantly higher rates of sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination. Common perpetrators included residents, lecturers, professors, nurses, and patients, with incidents most frequently occurring in surgical and internal medicine departments. Despite high prevalence, only 9% of interns reported the abuse due to mistrust in reporting systems or failure to recognize the behavior as abuse. These experiences were associated with significant psychological distress, including frustration, reduced motivation to learn, and higher DASS scores, particularly among female interns. The study underscores the need for institutional reforms, including policy development, cultural change, and effective reporting systems to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for future healthcare professionals. Addressing abuse in medical training is essential for individual well-being and the sustainability and integrity of healthcare systems. Full article
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15 pages, 1695 KiB  
Article
Reconstructive Therapy in Patients with Peri-Implantitis in a University Dental Hospital: A Preliminary Retrospective Case Series Focusing on Complications
by Ahmad Alahmari, Xavier Costa-Berenguer, Rui Figueiredo, Eduard Valmaseda-Castellón, Alba Sánchez-Torres and Marta García-García
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 8040; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15148040 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 439
Abstract
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease-causing bone loss around dental implants, often requiring reconstructive surgical therapies to reduce probing depth and regenerate bone. However, such surgeries are frequently complicated by postoperative issues. This retrospective case series aimed to identify the main postoperative complications following [...] Read more.
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease-causing bone loss around dental implants, often requiring reconstructive surgical therapies to reduce probing depth and regenerate bone. However, such surgeries are frequently complicated by postoperative issues. This retrospective case series aimed to identify the main postoperative complications following the reconstructive treatment of peri-implant bone defects in peri-implantitis patients. Data from 14 patients with 21 affected implants were analyzed, including demographics, oral hygiene, surgical techniques, and complications such as wound dehiscence, membrane exposure, and infections. Wound dehiscence was measured using Image J® software version 1.54. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed. The results showed that 11 implants (52.4%; 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 29% to 76%) in nine patients (57.1%; 95%CI = 27% to 87%) developed soft tissue dehiscence after one week, with membrane exposure observed in 4 implants. Dehiscence was significantly associated with mandibular implant location (p = 0.003), poor interproximal hygiene (p = 0.008), and membrane exposure (p = 0.034). No postoperative infections were recorded. In conclusion, more than half of peri-implantitis patients undergoing reconstructive surgery experience wound dehiscence, particularly in cases involving mandible, poor hygiene, and membrane exposure. This complication might compromise bone regeneration and reduce the treatment success rate. These results should be interpreted cautiously due to study design limitations (retrospective design, lack of a control group, and small sample size). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Digital Dentistry and Oral Implantology)
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12 pages, 999 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Digital Intraoral Scanning and Conventional Techniques for Post Space Capture
by Amr Ahmed Azhari, Walaa Magdy Ahmed, Tala Khider, Razan Almaghrabi, Razan Alharbi, Yasser Merdad, Sarah Bukhari and Anas Lahiq
Prosthesis 2025, 7(4), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/prosthesis7040087 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 311
Abstract
Objective: Several studies have compared the accuracy of digital scans and conventional impressions for post space capture. However, only a few have specifically investigated the precision of intraoral scanners in measuring post spaces of varied lengths. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy [...] Read more.
Objective: Several studies have compared the accuracy of digital scans and conventional impressions for post space capture. However, only a few have specifically investigated the precision of intraoral scanners in measuring post spaces of varied lengths. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of various intraoral scanning techniques in capturing long and short post spaces. Material and Methods: This study grouped samples into eight categories based on four techniques and two post space depths (7 and 11 mm). After tooth preparation, root canal treatment, and post space preparation, laboratory scans were performed using Duralay. Intraoral scans were obtained directly and indirectly with the Trios fourth generation scanner using the Duralay and PVS techniques. The accuracies, in terms of trueness, and precisions were compared after ten repetitions for each group using the Kruskal–Wallis or Mann–Whitney U tests. Results: The Duralay Intraoral Scan groups demonstrated a high consistency, while the Direct Intraoral Scan groups showed moderate consistency. Variability was higher for the Duralay Lab Scan and PVS Intraoral Scan groups for short post spaces. Conclusions: The capture technique significantly affected the accuracies of the post space measurements. The techniques also demonstrated varying consistency and precision. These findings provide critical insights to guide their selections for clinical and research applications. Clinical Significance: This study is one of the few to compare the accuracy of intraoral scanners for the capture of both short and long post spaces. It addresses a key gap in current dental research and offers practical guidance for clinicians and researchers in selecting appropriate scanning techniques for various clinical scenarios. The findings have the potential to enhance the accuracy and reliability of post space measurements and improve patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Prosthodontics)
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17 pages, 2829 KiB  
Article
Apparatus and Experiments Towards Fully Automated Medical Isotope Production Using an Ion Beam Accelerator
by Abdulaziz Yahya M. Hussain, Aliaksandr Baidak, Ananya Choudhury, Andy Smith, Carl Andrews, Eliza Wojcik, Liam Brown, Matthew Nancekievill, Samir De Moraes Shubeita, Tim A. D. Smith, Volkan Yasakci and Frederick Currell
Instruments 2025, 9(3), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments9030018 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 245
Abstract
Zirconium-89 (89Zr) is a widely used radionuclide in immune-PET imaging due to its physical decay characteristics. Despite its importance, the production of 89Zr radiopharmaceuticals remains largely manual, with limited cost-effective automation solutions available. To address this, we developed an automated [...] Read more.
Zirconium-89 (89Zr) is a widely used radionuclide in immune-PET imaging due to its physical decay characteristics. Despite its importance, the production of 89Zr radiopharmaceuticals remains largely manual, with limited cost-effective automation solutions available. To address this, we developed an automated system for the agile and reliable production of radiopharmaceuticals. The system performs transmutations, dissolution, and separation for a range of radioisotopes. Steps in the production of 89Zr-oxalate are used as an exemplar to illustrate its use. Three-dimensional (3D) printing was exploited to design and manufacture a target holder able to include solid targets, in this case an 89Y foil. Spot welding was used to attach 89Y to a refractory tantalum (Ta) substrate. A commercially available CPU chiller was repurposed to efficiently cool the metal target. Furthermore, a commercial resin (ZR Resin) and compact peristaltic pumps were employed in a compact (10 × 10 × 10 cm3) chemical separation unit that operates automatically via computer-controlled software. Additionally, a standalone 3D-printed unit was designed with three automated functionalities: photolabelling, vortex mixing, and controlled heating. All components of the assembly, except for the target holder, are housed inside a commercially available hot cell, ensuring safe and efficient operation in a controlled environment. This paper details the design, construction, and modelling of the entire assembly, emphasising its innovative integration and operational efficiency for widespread radiopharmaceutical automation. Full article
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18 pages, 3116 KiB  
Article
Effects of Probiotic Supplementation on Depressive Symptoms, Sleep Quality, and Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Inflammatory Biomarkers: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by S Rehan Ahmad, Abdullah M. AlShahrani and Anupriya Kumari
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(7), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15070761 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1255
Abstract
Background: More than merely determining our sleep pattern, our body’s internal clock also improves the quality of our sleep, alleviates the symptoms of depression, and maintains the balance of our gut flora. Methods: We carried out a 12-week randomized controlled trial with 99 [...] Read more.
Background: More than merely determining our sleep pattern, our body’s internal clock also improves the quality of our sleep, alleviates the symptoms of depression, and maintains the balance of our gut flora. Methods: We carried out a 12-week randomized controlled trial with 99 adults from Kolkata, New Delhi, and Pune who reported sleep problems and symptoms of depression or anxiety. Participants received either a probiotic formulated to improve sleep quality and reduce depressive symptoms or a placebo. We tracked sleep using overnight studies and wearable devices, assessed depressive symptoms with standardized questionnaires, and analyzed stool samples to profile gut bacteria and their metabolites using gene sequencing and metabolomics. Advanced statistics and machine learning helped us pinpoint the key microbial and metabolic factors tied to sleep and mental health. Results: At the start, participants with disrupted sleep and depressive symptoms had fewer beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, more inflammation-related microbes, and lower levels of helpful short-chain fatty acids. These imbalances were linked to poorer sleep efficiency, less REM sleep, and higher depression and anxiety scores. After 12 weeks, those taking the circadian-supporting probiotic saw a statistically significant increase in beneficial gut bacteria, improved sleep efficiency (+7.4%, p = 0.02), and greater reductions in depression and anxiety compared to the placebo. Increases in SCFA-producing bacteria most strongly predicted improvements. Conclusions: Our results show that taking a probiotic supplement can help bring your gut back into balance, support better sleep, and lift symptoms of depression and anxiety. This offers a hopeful and practical option for people looking for real relief from these deeply connected challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Relationships Between Disordered Sleep and Mental Health)
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