Search Results (115)

Background/Objectives: Postpartum depression (PPD) affects approximately 10–20% of women during and after pregnancy, posing significant risks to maternal health, infant development, and family dynamics. Identifying modifiable risk factors is essential for prevention. Emerging evidence suggests that vitamin D, a neuroactive steroid hormone involved in neurotransmitter synthesis, neuroinflammation regulation, and calcium homeostasis, may play a protective role against mood disorders, including PPD. Methods: The search was conducted through a comprehensive search of the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases using a combination of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and free-text terms including “vitamin D”, “25-hydroxyvitamin D”, “deficiency”, “pregnancy”, “postpartum”, “depression”, “antenatal depression”, “maternal mental health”, and “perinatal mood disorders”. Results: Numerous observational studies and systematic review reports around the world reinforce the potential global relevance of vitamin D insufficiency. This study advances personalized and precision medicine approaches by emphasizing the importance of individualized screening for vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy and postpartum, enabling tailored interventions that could mitigate the risk of postpartum depression. Conclusions: In conclusion, while a definitive causal relationship between vitamin D deficiency and perinatal depression remains unproven, screening for vitamin D levels during pregnancy could serve as a low-risk intervention to support maternal mental health. Future research should focus on well designed, large-scale randomized trials and standardization of diagnostic criteria to clarify vitamin D’s role in preventing perinatal depression. Recognizing vitamin D status as a modifiable biomarker allows for targeted nutritional and pharmacological strategies to optimize maternal mental health. Full article

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the definitive treatment for end-stage hip osteoarthritis, reliably relieving pain and restoring joint function. However, patient-reported quality of life (QoL) after THA remains heterogeneous, with recovery trajectories influenced by a range of biological, psychological, and social factors. A comprehensive synthesis of these determinants is lacking, limiting our ability to optimize individualized perioperative care and long-term outcomes. This review examines the various factors impacting quality of life (QoL) before and after hip arthroplasty. An analysis of 67 studies reveals significant postoperative enhancements in physical function, pain alleviation, and overall patient satisfaction. Identified key factors encompass physical activity, mental health status (anxiety and depression), lifestyle choices (diet and weight management), and social support systems, particularly from spouses and family members. The review indicates that, although these elements positively influence recovery, it also recognizes limitations including dependence on subjective, self-reported QoL measures, possible selection biases, and inconsistencies in study design. The results indicate that a com-prehensive, patient-focused strategy—integrating organized rehabilitation, psychological assistance, and family engagement—can markedly improve recovery and long-term QoL for arthroplasty patients. Nonetheless, additional research employing standardized protocols and extended follow-up durations is essential to corroborate these findings and guide clinical practice. The early implementation of tailored, multidisciplinary perioperative pathways—including structured rehabilitation programs, routine psychological screening and intervention, nutritional counseling for weight management, and active family involvement—may optimize functional recovery, reduce complications, and maximize long-term QoL in patients undergoing THA. This review highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to enhance post-surgical quality of life, thereby advancing the understanding of patient-centered recovery strategies in orthopedic care. Full article

Background/Objectives: Colorectal (CRC), breast (BC), and cervical cancer (CC) pose a significant health burden, yet screening programs have been proven to reduce cancer-specific mortality and other non-lethal endpoints. Mobile health (mHealth) technologies can enhance adherence, but effectiveness varies. This scoping review aims to explore mHealth apps for cancer screening developed with community engagement, identifying research approaches and gaps. Methods: A scoping review following PRISMA-ScR guidelines analyzed studies on mHealth apps for cancer screening developed through community engagement. Community engagement was classified per WHO’s definition. Databases were searched using a PCC-based strategy; eligible studies involved app development, excluding hypothetical apps or text messaging-/social media-only interventions. Screening and data extraction were conducted independently. Results: Thirteen articles were included. Findings indicate a growing but limited body of evidence, with most studies focusing on CRC and BC and involving minority populations through mHealth apps. Key engagement phases included research design, CAB establishment, and recruitment, while priority setting was never community-led. The wMammogram, Meet ALEX, and mMammogram apps improved screening knowledge, intention, and participation, while ColorApp enhanced knowledge but not attitudes. Only CBPR-based studies included dissemination, and one involved the CAB in data analysis. Some studies acknowledged community contributions, though details on ColorApp’s engagement were limited. Conclusions: Standardized engagement frameworks combined with mHealth were associated with greater community involvement and may improve equity. No community-designed mHealth app was found for CC screening, despite its relevance. Future research should address gaps in CC programs, prioritize early community involvement, and assess the long-term impact of mHealth interventions. Full article

With the increasing density of modern cities, visual privacy has become a critical concern in urban communities. The need for privacy arises from religious and cultural beliefs, personal preferences, and security considerations. Urban planners and architects must develop effective strategies to ensure visual privacy in diverse urban settings. This paper aims to systematically review and analyze quantitative and qualitative measurement methods for visual privacy. This study conducted a systematic review of 199 articles retrieved from the Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases, covering publications up to April 2025. After applying relevance-based screening criteria, 51 articles were selected for in-depth analysis. The findings categorize visual privacy definitions into three domains: psychological, environmental-physical, and religious-cultural. Various qualitative and quantitative methods for measuring visual privacy have also been reviewed and introduced. Design strategies for enhancing visual privacy are also examined, focusing on urban fabric configurations, residential layouts, façade elements, and building materials in residential structures. Full article

In this study, a quantitative profiling method for detecting free fatty acids in crude lanolin based on the Quality by Design (QbD) concept was developed. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) equipped with a charged aerosol detector (CAD) and a Proshell 120 EC C18 column was employed for the separation of crude lanolin components. Initially, the analytical target profile and critical method attributes were defined. Potential critical method parameters, including column temperature, flow rate, isocratic run time, gradient end organic phase ratio, and gradient time, were identified using fishbone diagrams and single-factor experiments. The definitive screening design (DSD) was then utilized to screen and optimize these parameters. Stepwise regression was applied to establish quantitative models between the critical method attributes and the method parameters. Subsequently, the method operable design region (MODR) was calculated and was successfully verified. The analytical conditions established were configured with 0.1% formic acid in water and 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile serving as the mobile phases. The flow rate was set at 0.8 mL/min, and the column temperature was maintained at 35 °C with the evaporation tube temperature also set at 35 °C. An injection volume of 10 μL was used for each analysis. The gradient elution conditions were as follows: from 0 to 30 min, 75% of solvent B was used, and from 30 to 60 min, the proportion of solvent B was increased from 75% to 79%. Ten components, including 12-hydroxystearic acid, 2-hexyldecanoic acid, and palmitic acid, were identified by mass spectrometry, and seven common peaks were found in the fingerprints. The contents of palmitic acid, oleic acid, and stearic acid in the crude lanolin were quantitatively determined. Both the fingerprint and quantitative analysis methods were validated. The method was applied to analyze 15 batches of crude lanolin from different sources. The new established quantitative profiling method for free fatty acids can be potentially used for industrial applications to enhance the quality control of crude lanolin. Full article

Background/Objectives: Atlantoaxial instability (AAI) affects approximately 20% of individuals with Trisomy 21. Radiological screening has been debated for decades due to its unclear clinical utility and lack of standardized diagnostic criteria. This systematic review evaluates the indications, efficacy, and clinical implications of radiological screening for AAI in children with Trisomy 21. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar for studies published between 1990 and May 2024. Studies were included if they assessed AAI screening in pediatric Trisomy 21 populations, defined AAI radiologically, and reported at least two cases. We extracted the demographic data, study design, radiological criteria, screening recommendations, and biases from these studies. Results: Of the 537 identified studies, 8 met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 2536 children (mean age: 7 years). Five studies supported routine screening, while three opposed it. Studies varied significantly in their AAI definitions, using atlanto-dental interval (ADI) thresholds of 4 mm to 6 mm, the space available for cord (SAC), and the basion-axial interval (BAI). No study demonstrated a definitive correlation between radiological findings and neurological symptoms. Conclusions: Routine radiological screening for AAI in asymptomatic children with Trisomy 21 is not supported by consistent evidence. A selective screening approach, focusing on symptomatic patients or those engaging in high-risk activities, may be more appropriate. The standardization of radiological criteria and prospective studies are needed to refine screening recommendations. Full article

Background: The world’s population is not only growing but also ageing, and healthcare systems should adapt to the needs of an ageing population. Until now, there has been no clear definition of a preventive pathway with the aim of improving lifestyles and promoting healthy and active ageing. The present systematic review aims to provide evidence to support the development of effective ways of delivering preventive pathways for healthy ageing. Methods: Several databases were searched, i.e., MEDLINE, COCHRANE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, by using specific inclusion criteria, such as elderly population (i.e., subjects aged 65 years and older), preventive interventions for healthy ageing, studies with or without control groups, and effectiveness and methodological structure of the prevention pathway. The risk of bias was assessed by using the Joanna Briggs Institute and mixed methods appraisal tools. Results: A total of 9998 studies were identified after the removal of duplicates, and after screening title, abstracts, and full text, 14 studies were finally included. All the prevention pathways described are based on physical activity (PA) programmes, dietary interventions, and cognitive and mental health. The professional figures involved in the pathways were experts in prevention and health promotion, like family and community nurses, kinesiologists, and experts in stress management. The majority of the preventive pathways were implemented in primary care and community settings. Conclusions: Our systematic review provides evidence for developing an effective preventive healthy ageing pathway through tailored PA, diet, and cognitive health interventions. This co-designed approach should involve a multidisciplinary expert team and be implemented in primary care and community settings to improve psycho-physical health and longevity. Full article

Background/Objectives: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex neuroimmunological disorder with limited treatment options. Despite the widespread use of Dietary Supplements (DSs) among ME/CFS patients to alleviate fatigue and associated symptoms, evidence remains inconclusive. This systematic review aims to provide an updated synthesis of the efficacy of DS interventions and explore possible mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Several databases (Ebsco Host, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar) were used for the systematic search, which was based on the broad search terms ME/CFS and DS with a focus on publications between 1994 and 2024. The primary outcome was fatigue, with additional considerations including psychological well-being, physical activity, and biochemical markers. Two independent researchers screened the studies for eligibility in a multi-stage process and assessed quality and bias using Cochrane’s risk of bias tools (RoB-2, ROBINS-I). Results: Fourteen studies (N = 809) of heterogeneous designs were included, showing a high risk of bias, mostly due to missing data and selection bias. While some interventions (L-carnitine and guanidinoacetic acid, oxaloacetate, CoQ10–selenium combination, NADH and NADH-CoQ10 combination) showed significant reductions in fatigue, methodological limitations, like small sample sizes and missing data, prevent firm conclusions. Mixed results were reported for secondary outcomes like cognitive function and inflammatory markers. Six studies noted adverse effects, including nausea and insomnia. Conclusions: Though some DSs showed potential in reducing fatigue in ME/CFS, methodological limitations and inconsistent results hinder definitive conclusions. Future research should improve diagnostic criteria and include more diverse populations. Full article

Background: The ionotropic glutamate receptor AMPA (AMPAR) mediates fast excitatory synaptic transmission and regulates synaptic strength in various parts of the CNS. Emotional challenges can affect these processes by influencing AMPAR levels and localization via stress hormones, resulting, e.g., in behavioral changes. AMPARs are essential for auditory processing, but their response to stress hormones in the central or peripheral auditory system remains poorly understood. Therefore, this scoping review examines the effects of corticosterone (CORT), a primary stress hormone in rodents, on AMPA receptor levels and localization in the rodent nervous system and considers potential implications for the auditory system. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and OVID EMBASE using MeSH terms related to AMPA receptors and corticosterone. Studies were screened based on predefined inclusion criteria, including original research published in English that focused on AMPA receptor subunits (e.g., GluR1-4, GluA1-4, Gria1-4). Of 288 articles screened, 17 met the criteria for final analysis. Results: No reports were found regarding CORT action in the auditory system. Three main experimental models used in the included research were identified: neuronal cultures, isolated tissue cultures, and animal models. Generally, short-term CORT exposure increases AMPAR surface localization and mobility in neuronal cultures, especially in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. However, results from animal models were inconsistent due to variations in experimental design and other factors. The isolated tissue study did not provide sufficient data for clear conclusions. Conclusions: Variability in experimental models limits our ability to draw definitive conclusions about the effects of CORT on AMPARs across different regions of the nervous system. The differences in live animal studies highlight the need for standardized methods and reporting. Since AMPARs play a crucial role in auditory processing, CORT-induced changes in neuronal cultures may occur in the auditory system. Further research is needed to explore the specific responses of AMPAR subunits and how stress hormones may influence auditory disorders, which could help identify potential treatment strategies. Full article

Piezoelectric sensors convert mechanical stress into electrical charge via the piezoelectric effect, and when fabricated as fibers, they offer flexibility, lightweight properties, and adaptability to complex shapes for self-powered wearable sensors. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofibers have garnered significant interest due to their potential applications in various fields, including sensors, actuators, and energy-harvesting devices. Achieving optimal piezoelectric properties in PVDF nanofibers requires the careful optimization of polarization. Applying a high electric field to PVDF chains can cause significant mechanical deformation due to electrostriction, leading to crack formation and fragmentation, particularly at the chain ends. Therefore, it is essential to explore methods for polarizing PVDF at the lowest possible voltage to prevent structural damage. In this study, a Design of Experiments (DoE) approach was employed to systematically optimize the polarization parameters using a definitive screening design. The main effects of the input parameters on piezoelectric properties were identified. Heat treatment and the electric field were significant factors affecting the sensor’s sensitivity and β-phase fraction. At the highest temperature of 120 °C and the maximum applied electric field of 3.5 kV/cm, the % β-phase (F(β)) exceeded 95%. However, when reducing the electric field to 1.5 kV/cm and 120 °C, the % F(β) ranged between 87.5% and 90%. The dielectric constant (ɛ′) of polarized PVDF was determined to be 30 at an electric field frequency of 1 Hz, compared to a value of 25 for non-polarized PVDF. The piezoelectric voltage coefficient (g₃₃) for polarized PVDF was measured at 32 mV·m/N at 1 Hz, whereas non-polarized PVDF exhibited a value of 3.4 mV·m/N. The findings indicate that, in addition to a high density of β-phase dipoles, the polarization of these dipoles significantly enhances the sensitivity of the PVDF nanofiber mat. Full article

Background: Cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) and transverse cardiac diameter (TCD) are parameters that are used to assess cardiac size on chest radiographs (CXRs). We aimed to investigate the performance and efficiency of artificial intelligence (AI) in screening for cardiomegaly on CXRs. Methods: The U-net architecture was designed for lung and heart segmentation. The CTR and TCD were then calculated using these labels and a mathematical algorithm. For the training set, we retrospectively included 65 randomly selected patients who underwent CXRs, while for the testing set, we chose 50 patients who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging and had available CXRs in the medical documentation. Results: Using U-net for the training set, the Dice coefficient for the lung was 0.984 ± 0.003 (min. 0.977), while for the heart it was 0.983 ± 0.004 (min. 0.972). For the testing set, the Dice coefficient for the lung was 0.970 ± 0.012 (min. 0.926), while for the heart it was 0.950 ± 0.021 (min. 0.871). The mean CTR and TCD measurements were slightly greater when calculated from either manual or automated segmentation than when manually read. Receiver operating characteristic analyses showed that both the CTR and TCD measurements calculated from either manual or automated segmentation, or when manually read, were good predictors of cardiomegaly diagnosed in CMR. However, McNemar tests have shown that diagnoses made with TCD, rather than CTR, were more consistent with CMR diagnoses. According to a different definition of cardiomegaly based on CMR imaging, accuracy for CTR measurements ranged from 62.0 to 74.0% for automatic segmentation (for TCD it ranged from 64.0 to 72.0%). Conclusion: The use of AI may optimize the screening process for cardiomegaly on CXRs. Future studies should focus on improving the accuracy of AI algorithms and on assessing the usefulness both of CTR and TCD measurements in screening for cardiomegaly. Full article

Background/Objectives: Patients with schizophrenia have significant challenges in adhering to and complying with oral medicines, resulting in adverse consequences such as symptom worsening and psychotic relapse. Methods: This study aimed to develop clove oil-based bilosomes using definitive screening design (DSD) to maximize the anti-schizophrenic action of clozapine and promote its nose-to-brain delivery. The target was to optimize the physicochemical properties of bilosomes and incorporate them into mucoadhesive intranasal in situ gels, searching for augmented ex vivo and in vivo clozapine delivery. Results: The bilosomes’ particle size was decreased by increasing the span, SDC, and clove oil amounts. In addition to using a high lipid amount, the aforementioned components also helped increase the entrapment efficiency values. Increased zeta potential was only observed by increasing surfactant amount and reducing clozapine concentration. After incorporation of optimized liquid clove oil-based bilosomes, which had a spherical nano-sized vesicular shape, into P 407-dependent gels, an HPMC (2% w/w)/P 407 (20% w/w)-containing formulation (G6) was selected as an optimized gel owing to its acceptable gelation time (13.28 s), gel strength (27.72 s), viscosity (12,766.67 cP), and mucoadhesive strength (4273.93 dyne/cm²). The optimized G6 exhibited higher J_ss (50.86 μg/cm²·h⁻¹) through the nasal mucosa compared to the control gel (23.03 μg/cm²·h⁻¹). Compared to the control gel, G6 displayed higher relative bioavailability (491.37%) than a commercial tablet (264.46%). Following ELISA analysis, dopamine and serotonin were significantly reduced, while BDNF was remarkably increased after administration of optimized G6 into schizophrenic rats. Conclusion: Our study indicates the potential of intranasal bilosomal gels in upgrading the anti-schizophrenic and neuroprotective activity of clozapine. Full article

Nickel contamination in water is a critical issue due to its toxicity and persistence. This study presents a novel magnetic resin, developed by modifying Lewatit^® MonoPlus TP 207 with magnetite nanoparticles, to enhance adsorption capacity and facilitate efficient separation. A Definitive Screening Design (DSD) was employed to identify and optimize key parameters affecting nickel adsorption, including pH, resin dosage, initial nickel concentration, and the presence of competing ions (calcium and magnesium). The DSD analysis revealed that pH and magnesium concentration were the most significant factors influencing nickel removal. Optimal conditions were determined as pH 7, 270 min contact time, resin dosage of 0.5 mL/L, initial nickel concentration of 110 µg/L, calcium concentration of 275 mg/L, and magnesium concentration of 52.5 mg/L, achieving a maximum removal efficiency of 99.21%. The magnetic resin exhibited enhanced adsorption capacity and faster kinetics compared to the unmodified resin, leading to more efficient nickel removal. Moreover, its magnetic properties facilitated rapid separation from treated water, offering practical advantages for real-world applications. This study demonstrates the effective use of DSD in optimizing adsorption parameters and underscores the potential of magnetic resin as a sustainable and efficient adsorbent for water treatment. Full article

The Analytical Quality by Design (AQbD) concept was adopted to establish a quantitative analysis of multi-components with a single marker (QAMS) method for industrial lanolin alcohol, targeting cholesterol, lanosterol, and 24,25-dihydrolanosterol. The potential critical method parameters (CMPs) were identified as column temperature, flow rate, and gradient. Definitive screening design and statistical modeling were employed to optimize the gradient conditions of the mobile phase, column temperature, and flow rate. The Method Operable Design Region (MODR) was determined using a risk-based quantification approach. The robustness was assessed using a Plackett–Burman experimental design, followed by methodological validation. Optimal analytical conditions were as follows: acetonitrile (B)—water (A) mobile phase system; flow rate of 1.58 mL/min; detection wavelength of 205 nm; injection volume of 10 µL; and column temperature of 37 °C. A gradient elution program was implemented as follows: 0–19.0 min, 90.5% B; 19.0–25.0 min, 90.5–100% B; and 25.0–55.0 min, 100% B. Cholesterol served as an internal standard for quantifying lanosterol and 24,25-dihydrolanosterol, with relative correction factors of 0.4227 and 0.8228, respectively. This analytical method utilized only the cholesterol reference substance as an internal standard to quantify the content of cholesterol, lanosterol, and 24,25-dihydrolanosterol in industrial lanolin alcohol. It reduced the testing costs and enhanced efficiency, making it potentially suitable for widespread adoption in lanolin alcohol processing industries. Full article

Driven by technological innovations, newborn screening (NBS) panels have been expanded and the development of genomic NBS pilot programs is rapidly progressing. Decisions on disease selection for NBS are still based on the Wilson and Jungner (WJ) criteria published in 1968. Despite this uniform reference, interpretation of the WJ criteria and actual disease selection for NBS programs are highly variable. A systematic literature search [PubMED search “Wilson” AND “Jungner”; last search 16.07.22] was performed to evaluate the applicability of the WJ criteria for current and future NBS programs and the need for adaptation. By at least two reviewers, 105 publications (systematic literature search, N = 77; manual search, N = 28) were screened for relevant content and, finally, 38 publications were evaluated. Limited by the study design of qualitative text analysis, no statistical evaluation was performed, but a structured collection of reported aspects of criticism and proposed improvements was instead collated. This revealed a set of general limitations of the WJ criteria, such as imprecise terminology, lack of measurability and objectivity, missing pediatric focus, and absent guidance on program management. Furthermore, it unraveled specific aspects of criticism on clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic, and economical aspects. A major obstacle was found to be the incompletely understood natural history and phenotypic diversity of rare diseases prior to NBS implementation, resulting in uncertainty about case definition, risk stratification, and indications for treatment. This gap could be closed through the systematic collection and evaluation of real-world evidence on the quality, safety, and (cost-)effectiveness of NBS, as well as the long-term benefits experienced by screened individuals. An integrated NBS public health program that is designed to continuously learn would fulfil these requirements, and a multi-dimensional framework for future NBS programs integrating medical, ethical, legal, and societal perspectives is overdue. Full article