Search Results (1,831)

Background/Objectives: Birooted mandibular canines are a rare but clinically significant variation that is often underdiagnosed and may complicate dental treatment. The aim of this review was to conduct a comprehensive meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of birooted and multirooted mandibular canines, and to address the research question of whether geographical region, sex, or side predilections significantly influence these anatomical variations. Methods: A systematic search was performed on 4 September 2025 across five databases: BASE, Scopus, PubMed, DOAJ, and Scielo. Studies on permanent mandibular canines with at least 10 cases, assessed radiologically or in vitro, were included. Reports without detailed root number data or based only on two-dimensional imaging were excluded. Meta-analysis estimated prevalence and odds ratios by sex and geographic region, with results shown in tables and graphs. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tools. Results: Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria, of which seventeen were classified as population studies and one case as a series. The pooled prevalence of birooted mandibular canines was 2.71%. A female predilection was statistically significant in four modern cohorts. Only one case of a three-rooted mandibular canine was documented. No clinical outcome data were available regarding endodontic success or extraction complications. Conclusions: Birooted mandibular canines represent a relatively common anatomical variant, especially in females and on the right side of the jaw. However, clinical implications related to treatment outcomes remain underreported, emphasizing the need for future clinical and radiological investigations. Full article

The paper introduces a non-linear method for modeling the luminance coefficient (Qd) of asphalt (bituminous) mixtures using a Generalized Additive Model (GAM). Developed from observations after three and six months of service, the model accounts for the effects of aggregate luminance, binder content, and air voids, as well as temporal and non-linear dependencies. It showed a high goodness-of-fit (R² = 0.91) and strong predictive accuracy (RMSE = 4.8 mcd/m²/lx). The analysis revealed that the service period significantly influences luminance, with values after six months being, on average, 12.6 mcd/m²/lx higher than at three months. The impact of aggregate luminance was non-linear, displaying a saturation effect, while asphalt content and air voids varied in their influence over time. Results indicate that the factors affecting bituminous mixture luminance are complex and vary over time; moreover, high aggregate luminance alone does not guarantee a high Qd. Applying the additive model confirms the importance of accounting for non-linear effects and temporal interactions when assessing road surface optical properties. Full article

This paper presents an analysis of the impact of sub-cycle voltage reductions (below 1 ms) on the operation of a slip-ring induction motor. Due to the specific design of the slip-ring induction motor and the presence of a separate rotor circuit, direct measurements of rotor currents and voltages are possible, enabling a more detailed analysis of the physical phenomena occurring in the machine. A series of experiments was conducted using the Profline 2100 device, which enables the generation of controlled sub-cycle voltage reductions. This made it possible to directly assess the influence of such disturbances on motor operation, particularly changes in stator and rotor currents, rotational speed, and electromagnetic torque pulsations. The electrical and mechanical parameters of the motor were also identified. The obtained data were used to develop a mathematical model and implement it in the MATLAB/Simulink environment, enabling qualitative reproduction of the observed phenomena. The main novelty of this work is the analysis of the electromagnetic response of a slip-ring induction motor to sub-cycle voltage reductions below 1 ms, supported by direct measurements in the rotor circuit. The resulting model, validated against measurement results, shows qualitative agreement with the experiments and enables a more detailed analysis of motor dynamics during sub-cycle voltage reductions, including phenomena that are difficult to capture experimentally. Full article

SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with not only acute respiratory symptoms but is also characterized by strong neurotropism which may contribute to the development of the multisystem post-COVID syndrome (PASC). Patients frequently report chronic neurocognitive disorders such as brain fog, significant attention deficits and increased susceptibility to epileptiform discharges. The aim of this review is to systematize the knowledge regarding deviations in quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) recordings in convalescents and to evaluate the utility of this method as an objective biomarker. This work constitutes a comprehensive literature review integrating the latest data on neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier damage and changes in cortical oscillatory dynamics induced by the infection. The literature analysis indicates that the virus may induce a pathological excitation and inhibition imbalance (E/I imbalance) in neuronal networks. In QEEG studies this manifests as excessive activity of slow bands (Theta, Delta), a deficit of rhythms responsible for attention and sensorimotor integration (SMR) and a pathologically elevated Theta to Beta ratio (TBR). In conclusion, QEEG can serve as an objective and highly sensitive tool supporting the diagnosis and stratification of patients with neurocognitive complications of Long COVID. The integration of precise electrophysiological phenotyping with targeted behavioral neuromodulation (e.g., EEG-Biofeedback) fits into the paradigm of personalized medicine and offers a prospective strategy for mitigating long-term neurological burdens. Full article

Background and Objectives: Functional neurosurgery encompasses surgical interventions aimed at modulating the function of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS), as a form of neuromodulation, is an established treatment for chronic pain and is increasingly utilized by both anesthesiologists and neurosurgeons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of SCS in patients with chronic neuropathic spinal pain. Materials and Methods: This prospective study included 42 patients who demonstrated a positive response to trial stimulation. Only patients achieving a clinically meaningful response (≥50% pain reduction) during the trial phase were included in the final analysis. Pain intensity and functional disability were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). All patients underwent a two-stage percutaneous implantation procedure using burst stimulation. A follow-up assessment was performed 3–6 months after implantation. Results: A statistically significant reduction in pain intensity was observed (p < 0.0001), with median VAS scores decreasing from 8 to 3, corresponding to a 62.5% reduction in pain intensity and exceeding the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for VAS. Functional status improved significantly, with ODI scores decreasing from 74% to 38%, markedly surpassing the established MCID threshold. A clinically meaningful reduction in pain (≥50%) was achieved in the majority of patients. All patients requiring opioid analgesics at baseline discontinued their use following SCS implantation, and a reduction in overall analgesic consumption was observed across the cohort. Conclusions: These findings suggest that burst SCS may be an effective treatment option for carefully selected patients with chronic neuropathic spinal pain who are not candidates for conventional spine surgery. However, the results should be interpreted with caution due to the enriched study design and limited follow-up period. Full article

In this study, the applicability of achiral column chromatography—including both medium-pressure liquid chromatography (MPLC) and classical gravity-driven techniques—was evaluated as a laboratory method for enantiomeric enrichment of scalemic (non-racemic) samples of axially chiral compounds. As model substrates, 3-(ortho-substituted-phenyl)quinazolin-4-one derivatives were employed. The results confirmed that self-disproportionation of enantiomers (SDE), occurring during column chromatography (SDEvCC), enabled the efficient isolation of enantiomerically pure fractions, with MPLC demonstrating particularly high effectiveness. Additionally, the parameters governing gravity-driven column chromatography were systematically optimized, with particular attention to variables such as eluent type and concentration, stationary phase composition, sample preparation protocol, and solvent purity. Furthermore, leveraging known crystallographic data and quantum chemical calculations based on Density Functional Theory (DFT), a molecular association mechanism was proposed to elucidate the physicochemical basis of the SDE phenomenon. Full article

Background: Endometrial cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. In recent years, minimally invasive methods such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery have become very popular. Robotic surgery is a rapidly evolving and continuously improving modality. Methods: The main goal of our study was to compare patients operated on with the da Vinci robot with laparoscopy. The study included 300 patients with endometrial cancer who underwent surgery using the da Vinci robotic system and 80 patients with endometrial cancer who underwent laparoscopic surgery. Results: We have demonstrated that robot-assisted surgery is associated with significantly lower blood loss and a reduced risk of complications, whereas operative time remains shorter with laparoscopy. At the same time, we have observed that prolonged robotic operative time occurs particularly in older patients and those with a higher BMI, which should be taken into account when planning surgical procedures. Conclusions: Further research is needed to better define the groups of patients who benefit most and to optimize surgical strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular complications remain the leading cause of mortality among patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) treated with maintenance hemodialysis (HD). Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a sensitive echocardiographic marker of left ventricular systolic dysfunction that enables the detection of transient contractile abnormalities consistent with intradialytic myocardial stunning. This study aimed to assess intradialytic GLS dynamics during a single HD session and to identify predictors of GLS deterioration. Methods: Forty-three patients were enrolled. Transthoracic echocardiography, electrocardiography, and pulse wave analysis were performed before HD, at mid-session, and after HD. Biochemical assessment included, among others, plasma osmolality, electrolytes, and biomarkers of oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Results: Three distinct intradialytic GLS trajectories were identified: GLS worsening (GLSw, 46.5%), GLS stable (GLSs, 34.9%), and GLS improvement (GLSi, 18.6%). In the GLSw group, independent predictors of GLS deterioration included a decrease in left atrial volume index (LAVI, p = 0.0002), an increase in left ventricular end-systolic volume index (LVESVI, p = 0.0067), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.0094), and an increase in the malondialdehyde-to-creatinine ratio (MDA/CREA, p = 0.0055). In the GLSi group, GLS improvement was associated with a decrease in plasma osmolality (p = 0.0326) and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA, p = 0.0279), as well as an increase in the subendocardial viability ratio index (SEVRI, p = 0.0004) and caspase-1 (p = 0.0005). Conclusions: Intradialytic GLS trajectories are heterogeneous and reflect individual susceptibility to GLS deterioration. Modifiable adverse factors likely include oxidative stress, osmotic stress, fluid overload, uremic toxin- and ion-disturbance-related stress, and impaired coronary microvascular reserve. Future prospective studies are needed. Full article

Objectives: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are an increasingly common problem affecting patients. This systematic review aimed to analyze the available literature regarding the effectiveness of intra-articular ozone gas injections and their effects on pain reduction and jaw mobility. Methods: The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Bielefeld Academic Search Engine, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, PubMed, and references were searched (October 2025). Randomized controlled trials evaluating intra-TMJ gas injection compared to other intra-articular administration were included in the review. Analyses were performed both within and between groups. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB-2 tool, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. Results: Five studies out of 180, including a total of 230 patients, were included in the review. The studies reported using ozone at concentrations of 10–30 μg/mL. All included studies reported reductions in pain and improvements in mandibular mobility after treatment. In some comparisons, ozone-based interventions showed more favorable outcomes than control interventions; however, the findings were not consistent across outcomes, and the certainty of evidence was limited. Conclusions: Current evidence is insufficient to determine the effectiveness of intra-articular ozone injections for TMJ disorders. Some studies suggest possible short-term benefits in pain reduction and jaw mobility; however, the evidence is limited by high risk of bias, heterogeneity in treatment protocols, and very low certainty, particularly for longer-term outcomes. More rigorous and standardized randomized trials are required. Full article

Background/Objectives: Iron is a key micronutrient for the proper growth and development of the organism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of diet type, the chemical form of iron, and the formulation of the pharmaceutical preparation on its relative bioaccessibility from selected dietary supplements and medicinal products. Methods: The research was conducted using a two-stage in vitro digestion model, simulating the physiological processes occurring in the human digestive system and ICP-OES determination of iron. The analytical model used in the study involved homogenates of whole-day dietary rations (basic, standard, and high-residue diets) with the addition of selected dietary supplements or medicinal products. It was demonstrated that iron bioaccessibility was strictly determined by dietary composition and the chemical form of the preparation. Results: In the studies conducted without external supplementation, the highest iron bioaccessibility was observed in the basic diet model (7.96%), and the lowest in the standard diet (4.63%). The highest bioaccessibility value was determined for iron sulfate registered as medicine (12.58%), whereas the lowest was iron lactate (5.25%). The extended-release tablets observed the highest bioaccessibility (19.31%). Conclusions: It was proven that the developed in vitro digestion model may serve as an effective tool for the preliminary assessment of iron bioaccessibility, enabling the optimization of supplementation without ethical barriers. Full article

Container machining plays a key role in the finishing of workpieces. The aim of this article was to compare the effectiveness of vibratory and high-speed rotational machining. Mass loss and selected changes in surface geometric structure parameters were assessed. To obtain a porous structure, the samples were prepared by sandblasting. The novelty of this work is the use of high rotational speeds for rotational machining and the use of a planned experiment to limit the number of samples. The innovative nature of the comparison of vibratory and high-speed rotational machining allowed the development of mathematical models of the influence of process parameters on the final results. A two-factor planned experiment with five levels of process variables was used to investigate a wide range of process input variables. Based on the RSM response surface, mathematical models of changes in mass losses MRR, arithmetic mean surface roughness Ra, maximum height of the highest elevation (peak) of the roughness profile Rp, and surface skewness Ssk as a function of input parameters were developed. Working containers with a volume of 25 dm³ were used for the tests, and the test material was samples made of PA38/EN AW 6060 aluminum. Studies have shown that, for similar machining times, greater MRR changes were achieved with rotary machining. Rotary machining using the same machining media and similar machining times was characterized by up to 15% greater MRR than vibratory machining after 75 min of container machining. The reason for this high efficiency is the use of high rotational speeds. Comparing the effectiveness of reducing surface geometric structure parameters between rotational and vibration machining processes depends primarily on the machining time. The work proves that the use of rotational machining and high rotational speeds allows for shorter machining times compared to vibration machining. Full article

The contemporary green transformation of the economy is a strategic imperative for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the energy market, forcing the integration of sustainable practices in decision-making processes, including investment efficiency assessment. Classic financial tools, such as the internal rate of return (IRR) and net present value (NPV), commonly used in the SME sector, do not always adequately account for environmental, regulatory, and social risks associated with green transformation, as—particularly in the case of IRR—they rely on the assumption of stable cash flows and do not incorporate regulatory uncertainty, environmental externalities, or ESG-related risks into discounting parameters. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of nominal and real discount rates, adjusted for a synthetic measure of green transformation, on investment decisions. The research methodology combines advanced multi-criteria decision-making techniques, specifically TOPSIS and CRITIC, with sustainable finance concepts, offering an innovative approach to investment decision-making in the SME sector. The study shows that integrating environmental factors, when treated as a risk component, increases the cost of capital and reduces the net present value, while maintaining the profitability of the analysed projects. Incorporating green components into the discount rate enhances valuation appropriateness and improves investment risk management, particularly under macroeconomic uncertainty. The main contribution of the study lies in linking a synthetic green transformation indicator with dynamic discount rate adjustment within a multicriteria framework, extending existing ESG-adjusted valuation models by enabling a more structured and data-driven incorporation of environmental transition risk. Full article

Dynamic economic growth and climate change increase pressure on water resources, posing a challenge to achieving sustainable development goals, especially in regions with diverse hydrological conditions and development trajectories. This study aims to quantitatively assess the dynamic asymmetry between water management efficiency and the level of sustainable development in the European Union and the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) countries, with particular emphasis on cumulative mechanisms, regional divergence, and the potential low equilibrium trap. The values of the analysed indicators were calculated for 2015, 2021, and 2022, and subsequently their changes were determined for 2021/2015 and 2022/2021. This study was conducted using Eurostat data, applying the CRITIC method for objective weight determination, the TOPSIS technique for constructing synthetic measures, the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests to assess inter-group differences, and linear regression to identify dependencies. Countries were grouped according to the dynamics of changes in the synthetic water management index. The results indicate a clear asymmetry: the water sector is characterised by a cumulative mechanism and strong divergence (particularly evident in the short period), whereas sustainable development remains significantly more stable, homogeneous, and weakly linearly correlated with previous water achievements. In 3SI countries, a higher rate of improvement in water indicators was observed compared to the rest of the EU; however, no significant synergy with progress in sustainable development was found. The negative impact of the Water Exploitation Index on sustainable development is statistically noticeable but does not confirm the existence of a clear “low equilibrium trap” across the entire 3SI region. This study highlights the need for regionally differentiated, asymmetrical water policies and the integration of water management with broader ecological transformation strategies. Full article

The influence of the autohydrolysis temperature of sunflower stems (SSs) and sunflower inflorescence (SI) on the changes in the composition of the pyrolysis products of their hydrochars (HCs) was investigated. This research was carried out using a TG/FT-IR analytical device, the semi-quantitative ATR technique, the quantitative XRD technique, and the SEM (EDS) technique. It was found that a rise in autohydrolysis temperature alarmingly increases the contribution of undesirable hydrocarbons in the volatile pyrolysis products of HCs calculated with respect to the emitted CO₂ and substantially decreases the yield of pyrolyzed solid products. The rise in autohydrolysis temperature not only changes the content of inorganics in HCs but also influences the migration of inorganics in these samples during pyrolysis: intensifies the migration of Mg and Ca and reduces the migration of K. This affects the secondary reaction between the volatile pyrolysis products. The addition of 2 wt% of paracetamol to pyrolyzed HCs inhibits the migration of Mg and Ca and increases the migration of K with volatile products, which positively influences the reduction in undesirable compounds in the composition of emitted volatile products. The addition of paracetamol decreases the yield of pyrolyzed SSHCs by circa 2% and increases the yield of pyrolyzed SIHC₁₈₀ by almost 5%. Full article

This study examines the utilisation of fly ash from the energy sector as a secondary raw material in cement composites, with the aim of improving sustainability while maintaining high mechanical performance. By partially replacing Portland cement with industrial by-products, the proposed approach supports resource efficiency and aligns cement composite production with circular economy principles. Three formulations were tested: a reference mix and mixes with 25% and 50% cement reduction. Compressive strength reached 41 MPa, confirming suitability for construction use. Chemical and textural properties were analysed using XRD, FTIR, TGA, and nitrogen adsorption (BET, BJH). The results showed structural modifications, including new crystalline phases and changes in porosity. XRD confirmed newly formed phases, while FTIR identified Si-O-Si and Al-O-Si bonds, indicating effective activation of fly ash. Reducing cement content increased surface area and mesoporosity, enhancing performance. The findings demonstrate that fly ash can serve as a sustainable substitute for Portland cement within a circular economy framework, supporting CO₂ emission reduction and resource conservation while enabling the production of durable and environmentally responsible cement composites. Full article