Search Results (26)

Neonatal calf diarrhea exhibits a complex multietiological landscape, yet diagnostic and vaccination paradigms remain historically anchored to Bovine Rotavirus A (BoRVA) and monovalent Bovine Coronavirus (BCoV) infections. The primary objective of this systematic review is to synthesize contemporary genomic evidence to elucidate the evolutionary dynamics, taxonomical diversity, and complex viral coinfection of underreported bovine enteric viruses. In strict adherence to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we systematically searched Scopus and PubMed for primary genomic studies published between January 2016 and June 2026 and the protocol was pre-registered on OSF Registries on 15 May 2026. The AXIS tool was utilized to appraise the methodological quality of the included studies. Data synthesis involved taxonomical categorization and comparative analysis of clinical morbidity. From an initial 732 records, 70 high-quality studies were included. The review reveals a paradigm shift towards whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and metagenomics (24.3% of studies), uncovering a highly heterogeneous virome driven by Caliciviridae, Picornaviridae, Coronaviridae, and Astroviridae. While BCoV represents 38.6% of the monovalent evidence, multivalent approaches demonstrate that clinical morbidity is significantly amplified by viral co-infections. Notably, evidence from the included literature indicates that tripartite infections (e.g., Bovine Astrovirus + BoRVA + Bovine Kobuvirus) are significantly associated with a higher risk of severe morbidity (OR = 14.82). Furthermore, individual phylodynamic studies report localized instances of rapid mutational dynamics (e.g., in BCoV) and persistent homologous recombination, facilitating structural divergence and immune evasion. The synthesis demonstrates that bovine enteritis is strongly associated with an altered enteric viral-community composition rather than isolated single-pathogen invasions. Future veterinary diagnostics and multivalent vaccine designs must address the genomic plasticity and complex co-detection patterns of the enteric viral consortium. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is a ubiquitous environmental plasticizer that has been associated with metabolic dysfunction and steatotic liver injury. Hesperetin, a citrus flavonoid, has reported hepatoprotective properties, but its potential protective mechanisms against DBP-associated steatotic liver injury remain incompletely characterized. Methods: This study integrated network toxicology, network pharmacology, protein–protein interaction analysis, Gene Ontology and KEGG enrichment, molecular docking with redocking validation, sensitivity analysis, and an adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework to systematically explore the predictive networks linking DBP exposure, MASLD (historically termed NAFLD)-related targets, and hesperetin intervention. Results: The DBP-MASLD network identified TP53, PPARG, TNF, AKT1, and CASP3 as candidate hub targets associated with toxicity, whereas the hesperetin-MASLD network highlighted HSP90AA1, PPARG, ESR1, TNF, and MDM2 as candidate modulatory targets. Integrated pathway analysis indicated that these targets converged mainly on the lipid and atherosclerosis pathway (hsa05417). Triplicate molecular docking, AUC-ROC differentiation validation, and PLIP analysis suggested that Hesperetin (and its glucuronide metabolite) may competitively interact with the exact same active pockets as DBP (and its MBP metabolite). These computational predictions suggest a structural basis for potential interaction, but do not confirm physiological competitive displacement. Conclusions: This in silico study identifies PPARG and TNF as candidate hub targets, providing a structural hypothesis for hesperetin’s potential modulatory effects on DBP-induced steatotic liver injury. These computational predictions establish a theoretical dual-network framework that warrants subsequent in vitro and in vivo experimental validation. Full article

Polymers play a central and multifaceted role in cultural heritage science, serving both as functional materials in conservation treatments, such as cleaning, consolidation, adhesion and protection, and as constituents of a wide range of historical artefacts, including paper and canvas, waterlogged wooden wrecks, musical instruments, and modern plastics used in art. Although numerous studies have examined the use of polymers in archaeology and cultural heritage conservation, most have focused on specific polymers, individual conservation treatments, or categories of artefacts. A comprehensive and integrated assessment of the multifunctional role of polymers, both as conservation materials and as constituents of heritage objects, remains lacking. The aim of this review is to provide a critical and comprehensive overview of natural and synthetic polymers in cultural heritage science, examining their applications in conservation treatments, their long-term stability and aging, and the challenges and opportunities associated with their preservation and sustainable use. This review examines the main classes of natural and synthetic polymers used in conservation, evaluating their mechanisms of action, performance, limitations, and long-term behavior across different applications. It also examines the chemical decomposition pathways and the resulting degradation phenomena occurring in polymeric materials, both as conservation products and as constituents of cultural artefacts, together with current stabilization strategies aimed at mitigating aging and deterioration. This review provides a critical appraisal of current challenges and future perspectives in cultural heritage conservation, highlighting emerging trends and research directions for the development of more effective, sustainable, and compatible polymer-based solutions for cultural heritage conservation. Full article

Historical buildings represent a fundamental component of cultural heritage, and their preservation is of paramount importance for future generations. In the context of Turkey, Ulu Mosques represent a distinctive architectural and historical phenomenon, erected during the periods of the Seljuk, Principalities, and Ottoman empires, primarily serving as centres for Friday and Eid prayers. The location of these mosques in city centres is indicative of their role as symbols of both cultural identity and social power. Nevertheless, it is an established fact that earthquakes have caused serious damage to many historical masonry structures over time. This study investigates the seismic behaviour of the historical Ulu Mosque located in Uşak province, Türkiye. To this end, three-dimensional finite element models of the mosque were created, and both linear and nonlinear time-history analyses were conducted using ABAQUS/Standard v10 software. The analyses were performed using the ground motion record of the 1999 Kocaeli (Izmit) earthquake, which had a moment magnitude of Mw = 7.4. In the nonlinear analyses, the Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) model was employed to represent the nonlinear behaviour and damage mechanisms of masonry materials under earthquake loading. The objective of the present study is twofold: firstly, to enhance the comprehension of the manner in which historical masonry mosques respond to seismic effects, and secondly, to identify areas that are vulnerable to damage. Stress limits were exceeded in these areas. Tensile stress has been identified as the primary factor in damage occurrence. This situation can be attributed to the inherent resilience of masonry structures in resisting compressive stresses. Stress limits were exceeded in these areas. Tensile stress has been identified as the primary factor in damage occurrence. This situation can be attributed to the inherent resilience of masonry structures in resisting compressive stresses. Full article

Background/Objectives: Major depressive disorder (MDD) remains a leading cause of disability worldwide and exhibits substantial biological heterogeneity that is not adequately captured by current symptom-based diagnostic systems. While the classical monoamine hypothesis has historically guided antidepressant development, it does not fully account for variability in treatment response, delayed therapeutic onset, or the persistence of cognitive and anhedonic symptoms. Converging evidence from molecular, neuroimaging, and translational studies increasingly implicates glutamatergic dysregulation and impaired neuroplasticity as key mechanisms in depressive pathology. This narrative review aims to integrate monoaminergic and glutamatergic perspectives within a dimensional framework that may help explain clinical heterogeneity and inform mechanism-based treatment strategies. Methods: A narrative synthesis of the literature was conducted using major biomedical databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Preclinical studies, neuroimaging investigations, biomarker research, randomized clinical trials, and meta-analyses examining monoaminergic dysfunction, glutamatergic signaling, neuroplasticity pathways, and rapid-acting antidepressants were reviewed and thematically integrated. Results: Evidence indicates that depressive syndromes may reflect varying contributions of monoaminergic dysregulation and glutamatergic–neuroplastic impairment. Monoaminergic disturbances interact with inflammatory and neuroendocrine processes, including cytokine-driven activation of the kynurenine pathway. In parallel, alterations in glutamatergic signaling, glial function, and BDNF–TrkB–mTOR pathways contribute to synaptic atrophy and network dysfunction. Rapid-acting antidepressants such as ketamine, esketamine, and dextromethorphan–bupropion provide clinical proof-of-concept that direct engagement of synaptic plasticity mechanisms can accelerate symptom improvement, particularly in treatment-resistant depression. Conclusions: Integrating monoaminergic and glutamatergic mechanisms within a “monoamine–glutamate continuum” offers a conceptual framework for understanding depressive heterogeneity and treatment response. Multimodal approaches combining clinical phenotyping with inflammatory, neuroimaging, and molecular markers may ultimately support mechanism-informed precision psychiatry strategies in major depressive disorder. Full article

Objectives: Tip fold-over (TFO) is a rare but critical occurrence in cochlear implant procedures where the electrode array folds back on itself within the cochlea, compromising programming and device performance. Timely intraoperative detection is essential for immediate correction and optimal placement. Electric field imaging (EFI) has shown promise for identifying TFO both intra- and post-operatively. This study evaluates the performance of a TFO detection algorithm implemented in Target CI (Version 1.6) using Advanced Bionics’ cochlear implant systems, validated through bench and patient datasets. Methods: Sample data included (1) bench testing with a plastic cochlea and human temporal bones with and without induced TFOs, confirmed visually or radiographically; (2) intraoperative EFI measurements recorded using the AIM™ system, with electrode placement confirmed through imaging; and (3) historical EFI recordings from the Target CI DataLake, which lacks imaging and programming metadata. The TFO algorithm’s performance was evaluated by assessing its sensitivity and specificity using these datasets. Results: The TFO algorithm achieved 100% sensitivity and specificity in bench models and intraoperative EFI with imaging-confirmed placements. Among 226 intra-op cases, four TFOs were confirmed by imaging, and all were correctly identified by the algorithm. In the large set of DataLake cases (14,734 implants), 0.80% were flagged as potential TFOs. TFO prevalence was higher with pre-curved arrays (1.22%) than straight lateral wall arrays (0.32%). Conclusions: The TFO algorithm showed high reliability with 100% sensitivity and specificity using routine clinical EFI data. While not a replacement for imaging, the TFO algorithm serves as a fast, accessible tool to alert clinicians to potential TFOs. Full article

Background/Objectives: The subject of this work is the reconstruction of the inner mechanics of Götz von Berlichingen’s second iron hand. The complex inner mechanics were unknown until Christian von Mechel published a detailed description in 1815. In this artificial hand, each finger can be engaged individually in its three joints and the thumb in one joint. Methods: Based on this description, the individual components were reconstructed at an enlarged scale of 2:1 using computer-aided design (CAD) software and a three-dimensional (3D) printer for the mechanisms. In addition, a finite element method (FEM) analysis was carried out for the components exposed to the greatest stress in order to identify critical areas. Results: By making some adjustments to the mechanics, it was possible to reproduce the mechanisms on a scale of 2:1 on the basis of the index finger. However, when the model was rescaled to 1:1, the internal plastic components were too fragile. This problem was caused by the properties of the 3D printing materials and could be solved by manufacturing the springs from steel. Conclusions: This work aims to make a valuable contribution to the preservation and understanding of the historical artificial second iron hand of Götz von Berlichingen. It once again demonstrates the very precise and detailed craftsmanship of goldsmiths of that time. Full article

Background/Objectives: Robot-assisted microsurgery (RAMS) has been introduced into the field of plastic surgery in recent years. It potentially offers enhanced precision and control compared to traditional methods, which is crucial for complex microvascular tasks in free flap reconstructions. We aim to analyze our experiences with robotic-assisted microsurgery in the field of upper extremity free flap reconstruction. Methods: This prospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the Symani Surgical System for free flap reconstructions in 16 patients with upper extremity defects at our institution from February 2023 to March 2024. Operating times were compared to a matched, historical cohort. We collected data on surgical outcomes, operative times, and complication rates, following strict adherence to the Declaration of Helsinki. Results: Our cohort primarily involved male patients (81%) with defects mostly located on the hand (81%). The anterolateral thigh flap was the most commonly used free flap (14/16, 88%). The average operative time was 368 ± 89 min (range: 216–550 min). No complete or partial flap losses were observed, but one flap required revision surgery due to arterial thrombosis. Major complications occurred in 13% of the cases. The average anastomosis time was 31 ± 12 min (range: 20–35 min) for arterial end-to-end anastomoses and 33 ± 13 min (range: 20–60 min) for arterial end-to-side anastomoses. Venous anastomoses required, on average, 20 ± 6 min. Operating times were not significantly longer when compared to the historical cohort (p = 0.67). Conclusions: We were able to show comparable outcomes to conventional microsurgery, while requiring more time for the microsurgical anastomoses. The study highlights the need for larger, controlled trials to better understand the benefits and limitations of robotic assistance in microsurgical reconstruction of the upper extremity. Full article

This study focuses on assessing the indoor air quality in a storage room (SR) belonging to Museo Nazionale Scienza e Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci in Milan (MUST), covering pollutants originating from outdoor sources and emissions from historical plastic objects made from cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose nitrate (CN), and urea–formaldehyde (UF) stored in metal cabinets. The concentrations of SO₂ (sulphur dioxide), NO₂ (nitrogen dioxide), NOx (nitrogen oxides), HONO (nitrous acid), HNO₃ (nitric acid), O₃ (ozone), NH₃ (ammonia), CH₃COOH (acetic acid), and HCOOH (formic acid) were determined. The concentrations of SO₂, O₃, and NOx measured inside the metal cabinets were consistently lower compared to the other sampling sites. This result was expected due to their reactivity and the lack of internal sources. The SR and metal cabinets showed similar concentrations of NO and NO₂, except for CA, where a high NO concentration was detected. The interaction between the CA surfaces and NO₂ altered the distribution of NO and NO₂, leading to a significant increase in NO. The presence of HNO₃ potentially led to the formation of ammonium nitrate, as confirmed by ER-FTIR measurements. High levels of HONO and HNO₃ in CN and NH₃ in the UF indicate object deterioration, while elevated concentrations of CH₃COOH in CA and HCOOH in the SR suggest specific degradation pathways for cellulose acetate and other organic materials, respectively. These results could direct conservators towards the most appropriate practical actions. Full article

Background: The work and life of a resident (or “junior”) doctor has changed dramatically over the past 50 years. Descriptions of historic working conditions are usually anecdotal and tinted with nostalgia, but do today’s burns and plastic surgery doctors feel working conditions have improved or declined over the last 50 years, and does this have an impact on recruitment and retention? Methods: An interview was conducted with a retired surgeon who, in 1970, worked as a house surgeon (Year 2 doctor equivalent) in a burns unit for the pioneering burn surgeon Mr. Douglas MacGregor Jackson. This was coupled with a literature review to objectively assess working conditions in that period for doctors. The information generated from this produced a poster summarizing the key differences between these periods. This was presented to the current medical work force, and a survey was conducted to determine their preferences for working conditions. Results: The questionnaire was completed by 68 doctors of mixed grades and backgrounds. The majority of respondents (60%) would choose to work in today’s burns centres. There was a significant difference between the mean age of respondents’ preference of working conditions in 1970 (37 years) and those preferring today (31 years) (p = 0.035). Conclusions: Multiple changes in the working conditions and the management of burns patients were identified. The majority of those who were asked consider today’s working conditions to be better than those of the past. However, more senior clinicians tended to prefer the conditions of 1970 over the present day, suggesting a generational shift in opinion. Full article

Background/Objectives: Microsurgery employs techniques requiring optical magnification and specialized instruments to operate on small anatomical structures, including small vessels. These methods are integral to plastic surgery, enabling procedures such as free tissue transfer, nerve reconstruction, replantation, and lymphatic surgery. This paper explores the historical development, advancements, and current applications of microsurgery in plastic surgery. Methods: The databases MEDLINE (via PubMed) and Web of Science were selectively searched with the term “(((microsurgery) OR (advances)) OR (robotic)) OR (AI)) AND (((lymphatic surgery) OR (peripheral nerve surgery)) OR (allotransplantation))” and manually checked for relevance. Additionally, a supplementary search among the references of all publications included was performed. Articles were included that were published in English or German up to June 2024. Results: Modern microsurgical techniques have revolutionized plastic surgery, enabling precise tissue transfers, improved nerve reconstruction, and effective lymphedema treatments. The evolution of robotic-assisted surgery, with systems like da Vinci and MUSA, has enhanced precision and reduced operative times. Innovations in imaging, such as magnetic resonance (MR) lymphography and near-infrared fluorescence, have significantly improved surgical planning and outcomes. Conclusions: The continuous advancements in microsurgery, including supermicrosurgical techniques and robotic assistance, have significantly enhanced the capabilities and outcomes of plastic surgery. Future developments in AI and robotics promise further improvements in precision and efficiency, while new imaging modalities and surgical techniques expand the scope and success of microsurgical interventions. Full article

The characterization of objects of historical and cultural interest represents a crucial topic, specifically when it regards gemstones. Actually, the advanced investigation of precious minerals of gemological interest requires exclusively non-destructive analyses which are also suitable for determining their provenance when it is unknown. In this study, a non-destructive analytical protocol, previously tested on diamonds for petrogenetic studies, has been applied to a natural diamond of very high historical and gemological value, donated in 1852 by Monsignor Lavinio de ‘Medici Spada to the Museum of Earth Sciences of Sapienza University (Rome). The analytical protocol used includes X-ray diffraction topography, micro-computed X-ray tomography, single-crystal micro-X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The results show the presence of dislocations originating from inclusions and a very low degree of plastic deformation. The aggregation states of its N impurities show that this diamond is type IaAB, while the inclusions consist of olivine (Fo92-93), suggesting a lithospheric origin. The historical references found in the catalogs of the Museum indicate only a Brazilian origin, without any reference to the mining district. The information acquired in this study, enhanced by document research on mining in Brazil since 1700, suggests that the diamond likely comes from the district of Diamantina, Mina Gerais, Brazil. Full article

Lifespan is a complex quantitative trait involving genetic and non-genetic factors as well as the peculiarities of ontogenesis. As with all quantitative traits, lifespan shows considerable variation within populations and between individuals. Drosophila, a favourite object of geneticists, has greatly advanced our understanding of how different forms of variability affect lifespan. This review considers the role of heritable genetic variability, phenotypic plasticity and stochastic variability in controlling lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster. We discuss the major historical milestones in the development of the genetic approach to study lifespan, the breeding of long-lived lines, advances in lifespan QTL mapping, the environmental factors that have the greatest influence on lifespan in laboratory maintained flies, and the mechanisms, by which individual development affects longevity. The interplay between approaches to study ageing and lifespan limitation will also be discussed. Particular attention will be paid to the interaction of different types of variability in the control of lifespan. Full article

This work investigates the suitability of supercritical fluid technology for designing a safe, efficient and sustainable consolidation treatment for a pair of heavily degraded goalkeeper gloves. Traditional methods have revealed themselves as unsafe and inefficient, leading to material loss and a minimal enhancement of surface cohesion. To overcome these limitations, the use of supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO₂) was explored in a treatment, where scCO₂ behaves as a green solvent and consolidant carrier. In-depth and homogeneous application of the consolidant, without the need for direct contact with the foam material, was sought. As a proof of concept, the procedure was tested on samples that mimic the synthetic latex-based foam composition and condition of the object. Poly(vinyl acetate) was selected as a consolidant because its behaviour and solubility in scCO₂ are known. Several experimental conditions were explored to assess the impact and feasibility of the scCO₂-assisted consolidation procedure. Empirical observations, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy were used to monitor potential modifications in the samples and assess the treatment efficacy. The results highlighted the advantages and pitfalls of scCO₂-assisted consolidation, paving the way for fine-tuning the process. It neither damaged the fragile surfaces of the foam samples nor increased material loss, which is an advantage compared to traditional treatments. The performed analysis suggested that homogeneous impregnation of the foams was achieved. This study might be a turning point in the conservation of foam-based museum objects, as the results indicate the suitability of the scCO₂-assisted consolidation process as a non-toxic and more efficient alternative, being safer for the object. Full article

Preserving celluloid artifacts is challenging for museums, as this plastic is highly prone to degradation. Frozen, cold, and cool storage solutions are typically recommended for inhibiting the chemical degradation of celluloid. However, they are rarely implemented for three-dimensional celluloid (3D-CN) objects because low temperatures might cause irreversible effects (e.g., microcracking). This work presents the effects of four different storage temperatures (+23 °C, +13 °C, +9 °C, −15 °C) on the preservation of artificially aged 3D-CN mock-ups, aiming at understanding their effectiveness by measuring molecular weight distribution, camphor, and nitrogen contents after storage. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) results showed that the least loss of camphor content and fewer polymer chain scissions happened at −15 °C, hinting that this temperature was the best for preservation. However, the heterogeneous nature of celluloid alteration, i.e., the development of degradation gradients in thicker 3D-CN objects (>0.5 mm), made it necessary to apply a novel sampling technique, which selectively considers several depths for analyses from the surface to the core (depth profiling). This depth profiling made monitoring the degradation evolution dependent on the storage conditions in the thicker mock-ups possible. This approach was also used for the first time to quantify the polymer chain scission, camphor loss, and denitration of historical artifacts, indicating a dramatic difference in the degradation stage between surface and core. The effectiveness of frozen storage on the chemical stability of 3D-CN after seven months could support museums to consider reducing the storage temperatures to preserve precious artifacts. Full article