Search Results (1,235)

Background: This study compared the performance of a Head-mounted Virtual Reality Perimeter (HVRP) with the Humphrey Field Analyzer (HFA), the standard in automated perimetry. The HFA is the established standard for automated perimetry but is constrained by lengthy testing, bulky equipment, and limited patient comfort. Comparative data on newer head-mounted virtual reality perimeters are limited, leaving uncertainty about their clinical reliability and potential advantages. Aim: The aim was to evaluate parameters such as visual field outcomes, portability, patient comfort, eye tracking, and usability. Methods: Participants underwent testing with both devices, assessing metrics like mean deviation (MD), pattern standard deviation (PSD), and duration. Results: The HVRP demonstrated small but statistically significant differences in MD and PSD compared to the HFA, while maintaining a consistent trend across participants. MD values were slightly more negative for HFA than HVRP (average difference −0.60 dB, p = 0.0006), while pattern standard deviation was marginally higher with HFA (average difference 0.38 dB, p = 0.00018). Although statistically significant, these differences were small in magnitude and do not undermine the clinical utility or reproducibility of the device. Notably, HVRP showed markedly shorter testing times with HVRP (7.15 vs. 18.11 min, mean difference 10.96 min, p < 0.0001). Its lightweight, portable design allowed for bedside and home testing, enhancing accessibility for pediatric, geriatric, and mobility-impaired patients. Participants reported greater comfort due to the headset design, which eliminated the need for chin rests. The device also offers potential for AI integration and remote data analysis. Conclusions: The HVRP proved to be a reliable, user-friendly alternative to traditional perimetry. Its advantages in comfort, portability, and test efficiency support its use in both clinical settings and remote screening programs for visual field assessment. Its portability and user-friendly design support broader use in clinical practice and expand possibilities for bedside assessment, home monitoring, and remote screening, particularly in populations with limited access to conventional perimetry. Full article

Laboratory incubation experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of coal fly ash (FA) amendment (0%, 2.5%, 7.5%, and 15%) and moisture regimes (40%, 70%, and 100% water holding capacity (WHC)) on the mineralization of carbon (C) in an acidic agricultural soil. The results showed that the soil C mineralization intensity initially increased and subsequently decreased throughout the incubation period, with the mineralization dynamics well described by the first-order kinetic model (0.9633 ≤ R² ≤ 0.9972). Carbon mineralization increased with the application rate of FA, while moisture effect followed the order 70% WHC > 100% WHC > 40% WHC. Indicators showing highly significant correlations with total C mineralization amount included FA application rate, pH, water-soluble organic carbon, (WSOC) and cellulase (CEL) activity. Specific bacterial (Acidobacteriota, Gemmatimonadota, Pseudomonadota, and Actinobacteriota) and fungal phyla (Chytridiomycota, Glomeromycota, and Olpidiomycota) exhibited stronger correlations with C mineralization. The microbial taxa exhibiting significant responses to FA and moisture conditions were not consistent. Although the addition of high proportions of FA, especially with adequate moisture conditions, can enhance soil microbial activity and C mineralization, the potential risks of soil C loss and the accumulation of toxic elements necessitate the prudent implementation of elevated FA application rates in practical scenarios. Full article

Background/Objectives: Beetroot supplementation is a rich source of inorganic nitrate and has been proposed to enhance nitric oxide bioavailability and support cardiovascular recovery after exercise. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of beetroot supplementation on post-exercise cardiovascular and autonomic recovery in postmenopausal women. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception to July 2025. Ten trials involving postmenopausal women were included. Outcomes assessed included cardiovascular measures (blood pressure and vascular function), autonomic parameters derived from heart rate variability (HRV)—specifically the root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD), the standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN), and high-frequency power (HF)—as well as physical performance (peak oxygen uptake [VO_2peak or VO_2max] and functional fitness tests). Four independent reviewers extracted data, assessed risk of bias, and evaluated the certainty of evidence using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach. Results: Pooled analyses from two trials (n = 54) revealed a statistically significant improvement in RMSSD with beetroot supplementation (mean difference: 6.68 ms; 95% CI: 0.86 to 12.50; p = 0.02), suggesting enhanced parasympathetic reactivation after exercise. No significant effects were detected for HF (mean difference: 61.75 ms²; 95% CI: −70.92 to 194.43; p = 0.36) or SDNN (mean difference: 6.20 ms; 95% CI: −9.69 to 22.09; p = 0.44). Substantial to considerable heterogeneity was identified across outcomes (I² = 73–86%). Certainty of evidence was rated moderate for RMSSD, low for SDNN, and very low for HF. Conclusions: Beetroot supplementation may enhance post-exercise autonomic recovery in postmenopausal women, primarily through improvements in RMSSD. However, further trials with standardized protocols, larger samples, and longer intervention durations are required to clarify its impact on broader HRV domains, cardiovascular function, and clinical outcomes. Full article

This study demonstrates that synergistic pyrolysis and water-soaking pretreatment transforms municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWI FA) into high-performance alkali-activated materials when combined with ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS). Pyrolysis reduced chlorine content by 94.3% and increased reactive components by 44.4%, thereby shifting hydration products from Friedel’s salt to ettringite (AFt). Subsequent water-soaking eliminated expansion-causing elemental aluminum, liberating activators for enhanced reaction completeness (29% higher cumulative heat release) and enabling a denser matrix with 71.5% harmless pores (<20 nm). The dual-treated FA (T-PFA) achieved exceptional mechanical performance—295.6% higher 56-day compressive strength versus untreated FA at a 1:1 ratio—while reducing porosity by 29.1% relative to pyrolyzed-only FA. Despite 22–38% increased total heavy metal content post-pyrolysis, matrix densification and enhanced C-A-S-H/AFt formation reduced Cr/Cd/Cu/Pb leaching by 11.3–66.7% through strengthened physical encapsulation and chemisorption, with all leachates meeting stringent HJ 1134-2020 thresholds. This integrated approach provides an efficient, environmentally compliant pathway for MSWI FA valorization in low-carbon construction materials. Full article

This study examined how the dietary lipid levels influence growth performance, lipid metabolism, oxidative response and hepatopancreatic health in Macrobrachium rosenbergii. A total of 720 post-larvae (0.86 ± 0.01 g) were divided into 4 groups according to the lipid levels in 43% protein-contained diets: 6% (L6), 8% (L8), 10% (L10), and 12% (L12). The results exhibited a significant increase in both the weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) in the L8 group (p < 0.05). Hepatopancreatic lipid metabolism genes (fas, acc, srebp1, and fabp) showed increased expression at higher dietary lipid levels (p < 0.05). The expression of ampk was significantly reduced, whereas the expression of atgl was increased in the L8 group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the activities of total superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level were significantly higher in the L8 group, while the content of malondinaldehyde (MDA) was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). H&E staining of the hepatopancreas revealed that high-lipid diets resulted in severe hepatopancreas damage. Moreover, the L8 group exhibited consistently high cumulative survival rates under both ammonia nitrogen and high-temperature stress (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study recommends a dietary lipid level of 8% to optimize growth performance in M. rosenbergii under high-density rearing conditions (70 prawns/m³). Full article

To reduce the proliferation of greenhouse gases in the construction industry, ternary blended concrete comprising fly ash (FA) powder, waste glass (WG) powder, and ordinary Portland cement (OPC) was developed such that the WG to total binder varied from 0 to 20% at intervals of 5% (C₈₀FA_20-xWG_x:x = WG/(WG + FA + OPC)). The developed concrete was investigated for water absorption, workability, 28-day compressive strength, binder phases, bond characteristics, microstructure, and elemental composition of the concrete. The mixture proportions of C₈₀FA₁₅WG₅ and C₈₀FA₁₀WG₁₀ exhibited better consistency and water absorption than the OPC concrete (C₁₀₀FA₀WG₀). Furthermore, the 28 d strength of C₈₀FA₁₅WG₅ marginally outperformed those of C₈₀FA₁₀WG₁₀ and C₈₀FA₂₀WG₀. The sample with equal proportions of FA and WG (C₈₀FA₁₀G₁₀) was more amorphous owing to the disappearance of the hedenbergite phase (CaFeSi₂O₆) and conversion of tobermorite (CSH) to C-A-S-H. C₈₀FA₁₀WG₁₀ also exhibited better microstructural stability than FA + OPC concrete (C₈₀FA₂₀G₀), owing to the pore-filling of the microcracks within the matrix. Finally, higher Si/Ca, Ca/Al, and Si/Al ratios were recorded in C₈₀FA₁₀WG₁₀ than in the case of FA preponderating WG in ternary blending. Finally, structural concrete can be produced through the ternary blending of glass waste, fly ash, and OPC, thereby promoting the valorization of solid waste and a sustainable environment. Full article

Background: Anthracycline-based chemotherapy, while highly effective for breast cancer, poses a significant risk for chemotherapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD), mainly determined by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) reduction. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic utility of speckle tracking analysis (STA) and Diastolic Stress Test Echocardiography (DSTE) for the early detection of cardiac dysfunction either CTRCD or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer and developed exertional dyspnea and/or fatigue during follow-up. Methods: In this prospective case–control study, 133 women receiving anthracycline-based chemotherapy (with or without anti-HER2 therapy) (chemotherapy group-CTG) and 65 age-matched healthy women as the control group (CG) underwent resting echocardiographic assessment, including LVEF, global longitudinal strain (GLS), myocardial work indices, biomarkers assay (NT-proBNP, troponin, galectin-3) and DSTE at baseline. That assessment was repeated after 12 months in CTG. Results: In this prospective case—control study, 133 women receiving anthracycline-based chemotherapy (with or without anti-HER2 therapy) were included. Based on the presence of CTRCD, they were further subdivided into a CTRCD subgroup (n = 37) and a CTRCD-free subgroup (n = 88). At the end of this study, CTG showed worse values of LVEF, GLS, myocardial work indices than baseline and CG (p < 0.05). Subgroup comparison (CTRCD vs. CTRCD-free) showed significant impairment in LVEF (53.60% vs. 62.60%, p < 0.001), GLS (–16.68% vs. −20.31%, p < 0.001), DSTE-derived tricuspid regurgitation maximum velocity (TRVmax) (3.05 vs. 2.31 m/s, p < 0.001) and elevated biomarkers (NT-proBNP: 200.06 vs. 61.49 pg/mL; troponin: 12.42 vs. 3.95 ng/L, p < 0.001) in the former subgroup. Regression analysis identified GLS, NT-proBNP, troponin, and TRVmax as independent predictors of CTRCD. Notably, a subgroup of CTRCD-free patients (n = 16) showed a high probability for HFpEF based on the HFA-PEFF score, with elevated GLS, NT-proBNP and DSTE-derived TRVmax compared to the rest of CTRCD-free patients and the CG (p < 0.001). Conclusions: STA and DSTE significantly outperform conventional LVEF in detecting subclinical cardiac dysfunction among women with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy. The combination of novel echocardiographic techniques and biomarkers may enable the detection of early CTRCD, including the under-estimated presence of HFpEF among breast cancer women with HF symptoms. Full article

Virtual reality (VR) technology has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional perimetry for assessing visual fields. However, the clinical validity of commercially available VR-based perimetry devices remains uncertain due to variability in hardware, software, and testing protocols. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to evaluate the validity of VR-based perimetry compared to the Humphrey Field Analyzer (HFA). Literature searches were performed across MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies were included if they assessed commercially available VR-based visual field devices in comparison to HFA and reported visual field outcomes. Devices were categorized by regulatory status (FDA, CE, or uncertified), and results were synthesized narratively. Nineteen studies were included. Devices such as Heru, Olleyes VisuALL, and the Advanced Vision Analyzer showed promising agreement with HFA metrics, especially in moderate to advanced glaucoma. However, variability in performance was observed depending on disease severity, population type, and device specifications. Limited dynamic range and lack of eye tracking were common limitations in lower-complexity devices. Pediatric validation and performance in early-stage disease were often suboptimal. Several VR-based perimetry systems demonstrate clinically acceptable validity compared to HFA, particularly in certain patient subgroups. However, broader validation, protocol standardization, and regulatory approval are essential for widespread clinical adoption. These devices may support more accessible visual field testing through telemedicine and decentralized care. Full article

Background: Status epilepticus (SE) is a neurological emergency associated with neuronal injury and activation of apoptotic pathways. While these mechanisms are well described in experimental models, evidence in humans is limited. This study evaluated Bcl-2 and FAS—key apoptosis-related proteins—in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with convulsive SE. Methods: Between February 2024 and January 2025, CSF and serum samples were collected from 18 adults with convulsive SE within 48 h of onset, and from 15 control subjects. Patients with acute brain injury, stroke, tumors, or central nervous system infections were excluded. Bcl-2 and FAS concentrations were quantified using ELISA. Serum samples were obtained at diagnosis (S1), 24 h (S2), and 7 days (S3). Results: CSF Bcl-2 levels were significantly higher in SE patients compared with controls (z = 4.1, p < 0.001). CSF FAS levels did not differ significantly (z = 0.07, p = 0.94). No differences in serum Bcl-2 were observed. In contrast, serum FAS concentrations were significantly elevated at all three time points in SE patients compared with controls (S1–S3; all p < 0.001). Conclusions: Convulsive SE is associated with distinct apoptotic responses in the central nervous system and periphery. Elevated CSF Bcl-2 may reflect acute neuroprotective or stress-related responses, whereas persistently increased serum FAS suggests systemic apoptotic activation. These findings highlight the potential prognostic and therapeutic relevance of apoptosis-related biomarkers in SE. Full article

High consumption of unhealthy, high-fat snacks negatively affects children’s health, highlighting the need to replace these with healthier alternatives. This study aimed to determine the fatty acid (FA) composition and lipid quality of various branded and local high-fat snacks consumed by children aged 6–24 months in rural Matiari, Sindh. The total energy content of the products ranged from 390.6 to 625.6 kcal/100 g, with fat contributing 9.1 to 47.2 g/100 g. Saturated fatty acids (SFAs) were predominant across samples, particularly palmitic acid (C16:0), ranging from 0.69 ± 0.22 to 16.61 ± 0.1 g/100 g. Among unsaturated fatty acids, oleic acid (C18:1 n-9) was the most prevalent, ranging from 4.63 ± 0.2 to 21.07 ± 0.3 g/100 g. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6), were present in lower concentrations. Lipid quality was assessed using four indices: Atherogenic Index (AI), Thrombogenic Index (TI), hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (h/H) ratio, and Nutritional Index (NI). Most products exhibited moderate to poor lipid quality, with AI ranging from 0.08 (good) to 1.25 (poor), TI ranging from 0.11 (good) to 1.23 (poor), h/H ratios ranging mostly below 1.0 (undesirable), and NI values ranging from 0.81 to 9.19. In the analyzed snack samples, the results indicate high SFA content, poor lipid quality, and oxidative stability, which may adversely affect children’s health. Changes in dietary habits and the adoption of healthier food choices are strongly recommended to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Furthermore, understanding the FA profile of foods can support the development of targeted health programs for this population. Full article

Background/Objectives: Microglia are the primary immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS) and are known as “resident” macrophages. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of acute ethanol (EtOH) on the microglia state and monocyte infiltration into the CNS, with particular attention to the role of peripheral and central dopamine (DA) D2 receptors (D2Rs) in mediating EtOH effects on peripheral and central substrates. We hypothesize that EtOH interacts with peripheral immune mediators via D2Rs including monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) to modulate midbrain neurons, DA transmission in the mesolimbic pathway from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to nucleus accumbens (NAc), and the intoxicating effects of acute EtOH. Methods: Using the Macrophage FAS-Induced Apoptosis (MaFIA) mouse model (GFP+ on Csf1r promoter), we assessed the effects of three intraperitoneal (IP) doses of EtOH (1, 2, and 4 g/kg) at three time points (0.5, 1, and 2 h after injection) on D2R expression in blood leukocytes and microglia, as well as midbrain neuronal activity, DA release, and behavior. Results: Acute EtOH significantly enhanced lymphocyte and monocyte D2R expression at 1.0 g/kg by 2 h after injection in vivo but decreased D2R expression in vitro. Ethanol enhanced microglia D2R expression in the NAc, while not altering D2R expression in the VTA, but altered the microglia state in these areas, shifting them toward an inflammatory phenotype. Acute EtOH induced prolonged and progressive hypersensitivity of D2R activation of VTA GABA neurons. Intravenous injection of the macrophage depleter liposomal clodronate significantly reduced blood macrophages by 55.3% and blocked the typical inhibition of VTA GABA neurons by EtOH, as well as the enhancement of DA levels in the NAc, and the locomotor indices of intoxication produced by acute EtOH, but not choice place preference. Conclusions: These findings strongly suggest a neuroimmune peripheral connection for acute low-dose EtOH use and challenge the dogma that central actions of EtOH exclusively mediate its effect on DA neuronal activity and release. Full article

The search for sustainable and economical alternative materials has become a top priority in response to the increasing scarcity of natural river sand resources; as a result, a new alkali-activated granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS)/fly ash (FA) composite cement material innovatively using Tuokexun Desert sand as aggregate has emerged as a good strategy. In this study, GGBS/FA was used in place of cement; the effects of the water glass modulus, alkali equivalent, and FA content on the material’s properties were systematically studied, and the hydration reaction mechanism and durability characteristics were revealed. The material was found to form a stable calcium aluminosilicate hydrate (C-(A)-S-H) gel structure under a specific ratio, which not only displayed excellent mechanical properties (a compressive strength of up to 83.2 MPa), but also showed outstanding resistance to high temperatures (>600 °C) and acid–alkali erosion. Microscopic analysis showed that the phase transition behaviour of C-(A)-S-H was a key factor affecting the material properties under high-temperature and acid–alkali environments. This study provides a new method for the preparation of high-performance building materials using local materials in desert areas, which is of great significance for promoting the construction of sustainable infrastructure in arid areas. Full article

A novel quinoline-containing benzoxazine resin, 8HQ-fa, has been successfully synthesized at room temperature using sustainable raw materials, such as 8-hydroxyquinoline and furfurylamine as the phenol and amine source, respectively. The chemical structure of the hereinafter referred to as quinolinoxazine is fully characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), ¹H and ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), as well as by 2D ¹H–¹H nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY) and ¹H–¹³C heteronuclear multiple quantum correlation (HMQC) NMR. Thermal properties and polymerization behavior of the monomer are studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The resulting polymer is also characterized in terms of its thermal and fire-related properties by DSC, TGA, and microscale combustion calorimetry (MCC). The resulting thermoset, poly(8HQ-fa), presents good thermal stability as evidenced by its T_g (201 °C), T_d5 and T_d10 (307 and 351 °C, respectively), and char yield (42%), and low flammability as determined by the LOI, heat release capacity, and total heat released values (34.3, 143 J/gK, and 10.8 kJ/g, respectively), making it a self-extinguishing thermoset. The combination of properties and advantages in the synthesis of 8HQ-fa, accompanied by a low polymerization temperature, suggests its great potential in the field of high-performance polymers. Full article

Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a Physiologically Based Biopharmaceutics Modeling (PBBM) framework that can predict PK profiles in humans based on data generated from the BE Checker. Methods: Metoprolol and dipyridamole were selected as model drugs. A mathematical model was developed to describe drug dissolution, membrane permeation, and dynamic changes in pH and fluid volume within the BE Checker system. Using data generated under various experimental conditions, dissolution rate constants were estimated. For dipyridamole, the precipitation rate constant was also estimated, assuming simultaneous dissolution and precipitation processes. The estimated parameters were subsequently incorporated into the human PBBM to simulate PK profiles. Finally, the predictive accuracy of PK parameters such as Cmax and AUC was assessed. Results: For metoprolol, the PK profiles using the paddle revolution rates of 100 and 200 rpm closely matched the observed human data, particularly for Cmax and AUC, a key indicator of BE. In the case of dipyridamole, accurate predictions of the mean human PK profile were achieved when using BE Checker data obtained under high paddle speed (200 rpm) and longer pre-FaSSIF infusion times (20–30 min). Conversely, simulations based on lower paddle speed (50 rpm) and shorter pre-FaSSIF infusion time (10 min) underestimated plasma concentrations in humans. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the combination of BE Checker data acquired under high agitation conditions and the in silico mathematical model developed in this study enables accurate prediction of average human PK profiles. Full article

3D-printable concretes often require high binder content. This study evaluates the use of industrial gypsum by-products, phosphogypsum (PG) and borogypsum (BG), as partial cement replacements to enhance sustainability without compromising printability. PG and BG were incorporated at 2.5–10 wt% to replace the gypsum fraction in cement-based mortars containing fly ash (FA) or ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), with and without fibers. The fresh properties (spread flow diameter, open time, air content, density, and pH) and compressive strength were measured. At 28 days, the highest strength was achieved with a 7.5% PG addition to the GGBS system (~51 MPa), which exceeded the strength of the GGBS control C1 (~47.6 MPa). In the FA system, 2.5% PG reached 42.5 MPa, comparable to the FA control C2 (41.2 MPa). BG caused pronounced strength penalties at ≥7.5% across both binder systems, indicating a practical BG ceiling of ≤5%. Open time increased from ~0.75 h in the controls to ~2–2.5 h in BG-FA mixes with fibers, whereas PG mixes generally maintained a stable, printable window close to control levels. Overall, adding 5–7.5% PG, particularly in the presence of GGBS, improved mechanical performance without compromising workability. However, BG should be limited to ≤5% unless extended open time is the primary objective. These findings provide quantitative guidance on selecting PG/BG dosages and FA/GGBS systems to balance strength and printability in cement-based, 3D-printable concretes. Full article