Search Results (170)

Plant-parasitic nematodes, particularly the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita, severely threaten agricultural production in tropical and subtropical regions. Although nematode-trapping fungi have been considered environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical nematicides, their field performance often remains inconsistent due to limited ecological adaptation. This study combined a field survey of crop-associated nematode communities with laboratory and greenhouse evaluation of selected nematode-trapping fungal isolates under subtropical conditions. Field surveys across multiple crops identified M. incognita as the dominant plant-parasitic nematode species. Five fungal isolates with different trapping mechanisms were compared for growth under contrasting nutrient conditions and nematode-trapping efficiency. Among them, Drechslerella brochopaga (NTF2), which forms constricting rings, showed superior growth stability under nutrient-limited conditions and the highest nematode mortality in vitro. In greenhouse experiments, NTF2 reduced root gall formation in two of three independent trials, indicating potential but variable suppression of M. incognita on pumpkin. These findings highlight the importance of ecological adaptation and trapping strategy in determining the effectiveness of nematode-trapping fungi for sustainable nematode management. Full article

Background/Objectives: With the development of the silver economy, older adults have shown increasing interest in digital technologies, such as electronic fitness games (Exergames). This study explores the impact of commercial exergames on the emotional experience of older adults in order to provide novel ideas and applications for healthy aging. Methods: This was a prospective, single-center, unblinded, repeated-measures randomized controlled trial comparing an exergame intervention with traditional indoor exercise. This study included 30 older adults (aged 60–89 years) who were able to move independently. The intervention group performed exergame training using Ring Fit Adventure, whereas the comparison group performed traditional indoor exercise. The intervention lasted four weeks, with two sessions per week (eight sessions). Mood states were assessed using the Brunel Mood Scale, and data were analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model to examine group, time, and interaction effects. Results: Significant group × time interaction effects were observed for confusion, depression, fatigue, tension, and vigor (p < 0.05). No significant interaction effect was found for anger (p = 0.942). Conclusions: This study examined commercial exergames from the perspectives of emotional experience and mental health. Both commercial exergames and traditional indoor exercise were associated with improvements in immediate mood states. The exergame-based training approach was associated with lower levels of confusion, depression, and fatigue, as well as higher vigor scores. The results provide preliminary evidence regarding the role of digital exercise in mood regulation among older adults. Full article

Background: Transcatheter mitral valve implantation (TMVI) represents an evolving therapeutic strategy for patients with severe mitral valve disease who are at high or prohibitive risk for conventional surgery. Since the first human implantation in 2012, multiple dedicated and adapted devices have entered clinical investigation, yet only one dedicated system—the Tendyne prosthesis (Abbott Structural)—holds regulatory approval. This systematic review evaluates the current landscape of available and emerging TMVI devices, examines the clinical outcome data, discusses key indications and limitations, analyses the role of computed tomography (CT) in predicting left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction caused by the unopposed anterior mitral leaflet, and compares TMVI outcomes with conventional surgical mitral valve replacement (SMVR) in the specific context of severe mitral annular calcification (MAC). Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central, and Web of Science was performed for studies published from January 2010 to March 2025 reporting outcomes of TMVI in native valve disease, valve-in-valve (ViV), valve-in-ring (ViR), or valve-in-MAC (ViMAC) procedures. Studies reporting CT-based LVOT planning, neo-LVOT quantification, and LVOT obstruction outcomes were specifically sought. Meta-analyses comparing TMVI with redo surgical mitral valve replacement were included. A total of 63 studies (n > 12,000 patients across all subgroups) were included in the qualitative synthesis; 28 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis. Results: Nine dedicated TMVI devices are currently under clinical investigation, with only Tendyne holding CE Mark and FDA approval. In ViV/ViR cohorts, TMVI was associated with significantly lower in-hospital mortality (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.57–0.92; p = 0.008) and 30-day mortality (OR 0.49; p = 0.04) compared with redo SMVR, with no significant difference at one year (OR 1.03; p = 0.91). In ViMAC cohorts, 30-day mortality ranged from 14 to 24%, which was substantially higher than in the ViV outcomes. CT-based virtual simulation of the neo-LVOT area—the residual outflow tract created by anterior mitral leaflet displacement—is the most validated predictor of LVOT obstruction, with a threshold of ≤1.7 cm² yielding 96% sensitivity and 92% specificity. The LAMPOON technique (laceration of the anterior mitral leaflet to prevent outflow obstruction) has expanded the eligibility for patients who were previously excluded due to LVOT risk. Surgical MVR in severe MAC carries a median 30-day mortality of 6.3% (range 0–27.3%), while ViMAC TMVI with dedicated devices yields 6.8% 30-day mortality, without a definitive randomised comparison. Conclusions: TMVI offers a viable alternative to redo surgery in high-risk patients with failed bioprostheses or rings. In severe MAC, both surgical and transcatheter approaches carry significant risk; patient selection, CT-guided LVOT planning, and use of dedicated devices are critical to optimising outcomes. The ongoing SUMMIT randomised controlled trial will provide the first high-quality comparative data. Future developments in transseptal delivery and LVOT-safe device architectures are expected to broaden the eligible population. Full article

Background/Objectives: To describe retinal imaging characteristics and the natural history of rhodopsin (RHO)-associated autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (ADRP) by evaluating ellipsoid zone (EZ) width loss and measuring the degree of constriction of the area within and including the hyperautofluorescent ring. Methods: Eighteen patients with molecularly confirmed RHO variants were retrospectively evaluated. EZ width on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and the area within and including the hyperfluorescent ring on fundus autofluorescence (FAF) were measured. The correlation between EZ width and hyperfluorescent ring area was assessed using a linear mixed-effects model. Results: Mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (logMAR) was 0.21 at baseline and 0.29 at last visit over a mean follow-up of 5 years. Nine patients presented with sectoral RP, eight with typical RP, and one with unilateral RP. The mean EZ width constriction rate was −93.43 µm/year (SD = 130.58), and the area within and including the hyperautofluorescent ring decreased by −0.54 mm²/year (SD = 0.50). A strong positive association was observed between the EZ width and hyperfluorescent ring area at baseline (β = 151.7 ± 17.9, p < 0.001) and at the final visit (β = 185.7 ± 18.2, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this study, patients with RHO-associated ADRP appeared to show a relatively slow rate of progression. Quantitative imaging markers, such as EZ width and the area within and including the hyperautofluorescent ring, may offer potentially reproducible measures of disease progression. These imaging biomarkers could be useful as outcome measures in future natural history studies and therapeutic trials, pending further validation. Full article

Weight reduction and dynamic performance optimization are critical for airborne direct-drive VICTS satellite communication antennas, which require lightweight, high-speed, and high-precision rotation. Traditional vibration suppression methods, such as uniform support layout and added damping, rely heavily on empirical trial and error, lack targeted modal control, and cannot balance lightweight design with dynamic stiffness. To address these issues, this paper proposes a wave-theory-based dynamic modeling and rapid optimization method for multi-layer rotating components in direct-drive VICTS antennas. The kinematic model of the rotating ring and ball revolution excitation are derived using the annular wave equation and bearing kinematics. A Modal Blocking Mechanism is established: placing support balls at positions satisfying the half-wavelength constraint suppresses target mode shapes via wave interference, achieving vibration attenuation at the source. A homogenization equivalent method based on RVE is developed for irregular cross-section rings, yielding analytical expressions for in-plane equivalent elastic modulus and out-of-plane equivalent shear modulus. These parameters are integrated into the wave equation to analytically solve vibration modes, avoiding iterative finite element computations. A rapid multi-objective optimization framework is then constructed, minimizing the structural weight and maximizing the modal separation interval under dynamic stiffness and excitation frequency constraints. Numerical simulations, FE analysis, and prototype tests validate the method: the maximum analytical error is only 3.1%. Compared with uniform support designs, the optimized structure achieves a 40% weight reduction, a 40% increase in minimum modal separation, and a 65% reduction in the RMS tracking error. This work provides an efficient, deterministic dynamic design method for large-diameter ring structures, transforming vibration control from empirical adjustment into a precise, physics-informed optimization. Full article

The perception that hormonal contraception causes weight gain is a general belief that frequently hinders the initiation and continuation of effective family planning. This narrative review analyses data from Cochrane systematic reviews and recent pharmacogenomic studies to separate patient perception from metabolic reality. Analysis of high-quality data, including Cochrane systematic reviews, indicates that the association between Combined Hormonal Contraceptives (CHCs)—including oral pills, the transdermal patch, and the vaginal ring—and weight gain is not supported by consistent high-quality evidence. Placebo-controlled trials demonstrate that these methods are weight-neutral on average. Perceived weight increases in CHC users are likely mediated in part by fluid retention linked to the estrogenic stimulation of the Renin–Angiotensin–Aldosterone System (RAAS), rather than adipose tissue accumulation. Conversely, Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA) represents a verified clinical risk for weight gain, showing a demonstrated clinical association with significant fat mass accumulation. Hypothesized biological mechanisms for this increase include hypothalamic appetite stimulation and glucocorticoid-like activity. The etonogestrel implant occupies a complex middle ground. While population-level data suggests weight neutrality, recent exploratory pharmacogenomic research has identified a specific variant in the Estrogen Receptor 1 (ESR1) gene. For the minority of women carrying this variant, the implant may trigger clinically significant weight gain, suggesting a biological basis for their subjective experience despite statistical evidence. Ultimately, the persistence of the weight gain concern is fueled by the nocebo effect and the misattribution of natural age-related weight trajectories to contraceptive use. Full article

Background and Objectives: Corneal allogeneic intrastromal ring segments (CAIRS) are designed to decrease and stabilize the extent of corneal ectasia in keratoconus patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the effectiveness of different surgical techniques for CAIRS preparation and the adjunctive use of corneal cross-linking. Materials and Methods: Following the PRISMA statement and checklist, a comprehensive search was conducted in Embase, Medline, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, through the use of a systematic search approach in accordance with the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. Results: Eighteen studies, involving 567 eyes of 459 patients, met the inclusion criteria. At one month postoperatively, CAIRS implantation significantly improved uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) (−0.45 logMAR, 95% CI [−0.59 to −0.31], p < 0.001) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (−0.36 logMAR, 95% CI [−0.46 to −0.25], p < 0.001). These improvements remained significant after one year (UCVA: −0.39 logMAR, 95% CI [−0.48 to −0.30], p < 0.001; BCVA: −0.34 logMAR, 95% CI [−0.50 to −0.18], p < 0.001). Similarly, mean simulated keratometry (Kmean) decreased by −4.42 D (95% CI [−5.94 to −2.90], p < 0.001) and maximum keratometry (Kmax) by −3.88 D (95% CI [−6.71 to −1.05], p < 0.001) at one month, with sustained reductions at one year (−3.59 D, 95% CI [−4.35 to −2.84], p < 0.001 and −3.73 D, 95% CI [−4.91 to −2.55], p < 0.001). No significant differences in surgical outcome have been observed between the different surgical techniques. Conclusions: CAIRS implantation appears to be an effective treatment option for keratoconus, regardless of the technique used for segment preparation or the addition of corneal cross-linking. No approach demonstrated clear clinical superiority over others in the first year after surgery. Full article

Background/Objectives: The menopausal decline in estrogen levels accelerates age-related changes, including visceral adiposity, insulin resistance, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and endothelial dysfunction. While nutrition independently influences these outcomes, the interactive role of estrogen signaling and nutrient metabolism in healthy aging remains underexplored. This article evaluates these interactions. Methods: We conducted a narrative synthesis of studies examining estrogen’s effects on energy balance, adipose regulation, muscle, bone, and cardiovascular health, with an emphasis on estrogen-like nutritional modulators and phytoestrogens. In addition, we present original experimental data from our laboratory investigating sex-specific vascular responses to G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) activation using functional myography in isolated rat aortic rings from young adult and middle-aged rats (n = 6–8 per group) to assess responses to the GPER agonist G-1 (1.0 μM). Results: Literature evidence demonstrates that estrogen supports macronutrient utilization, suppresses adipose inflammation, preserves bone density, and promotes endothelial function. Phytoestrogens may engage estrogen-responsive pathways to mitigate age-related physiological decline. Our original findings show that GPER agonism enhances both contractile and vasodilatory responses in female (p < 0.05) but not male rat aortas, providing mechanistic evidence of sex-specific vascular estrogen signaling. These results suggest that dietary phytoestrogens and nutrient-rich dietary patterns may, in part, activate GPER-dependent pathways to support cardiovascular resilience in aging women. Conclusions: Estrogen–nutrition interactions are central to metabolic adaptation and healthy aging. Our findings highlight GPER as a functionally resilient pathway in aging vasculature, offering a putative mechanistic link for nutritional modulation. However, direct translation of these findings to human clinical outcomes remains to be established. Precision nutrition strategies targeting GPER represent a promising framework for healthy aging, though large-scale human trials are necessary to confirm these receptor-specific effects. Full article

Graphene, a 2D carbon allotrope with a hexagonal atomic structure, exhibits an exceptionally low friction coefficient of approximately 0.004, making it a superior alternative to traditional lubricants. This research investigates the performance of graphene as an additive in oil-based lubricants. Experimental trials will be conducted using a block-on-ring (B-o-R) setup involving a steel rod pressed against a rotating steel ring under a fixed load. By varying the sliding velocities, the study will map the Stribeck curve across the boundary (BL), mixed (ML), and hydrodynamic (HL) lubrication regimes. Furthermore, the lubricant’s durability under extreme pressure will be assessed via Timken testing. The study identified 0.08 wt.% as the optimal concentration for PAO8, achieving a 21.25% friction reduction in the boundary regime. Furthermore, graphene as an additive mitigated wear volume by up to 90% under extreme pressure conditions (1.3 GPa), whereas epoxidized soybean oil proved to be highly effective as a base lubricant without additional nano-additives. Full article

Background/Objectives: The integrity of proximal contact and marginal adaptation in Class II composite restorations is essential for mechanical stability, interfacial integrity, and long-term clinical performance. These outcomes are strongly influenced by the matrix system used during restoration. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the performance of different matrix systems in restoring posterior proximal cavities, with a specific focus on their interaction with composite materials. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect, and Scopus for studies published between 2014 and 2024. Clinical and in vitro studies comparing different matrix systems used in Class II posterior composite restorations were included. Sixteen studies met the eligibility criteria. Risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 tool for randomized clinical trials and the ROBINS-I tool for non-randomized studies. Results: Sectional matrix systems consistently demonstrated superior performance in achieving anatomically accurate and tight proximal contacts compared with circumferential and transparent matrix systems. Metal matrices generally showed better contact tightness and marginal adaptation than transparent matrices, likely due to their higher rigidity and improved resistance to deformation during composite placement and polymerization. The adjunctive use of separation rings and contact-forming instruments further enhanced proximal contact quality and marginal integrity. Regarding composite types, high-viscosity bulk-fill composites provided better marginal adaptation and proximal contact tightness than flowable bulk-fill and conventional composites. Conclusions: Within the limitations of the included studies, proximal contact quality and marginal adaptation in Class II composite restorations are influenced by the matrix system, composite material behavior, and clinical application protocol. Sectional metal matrix systems combined with separation rings appear to be associated with improved outcomes in the included studies, while auxiliary contact-forming instruments may further improve restorative outcomes. Full article

This study presents the design and performance evaluation of an advanced inorganic filler system composed of calcite (CaCO₃) and talc (Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂), modified with a polyolefin elastomer (POE), and integrated into a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) carrier resin with process additives such as erucamide, montan wax, pe wax, and PIB. The composite was developed to improve the structural integrity and longevity of HDPE double-wall corrugated pipes. Comprehensive characterization of the filler was performed using TGA–DSC, FTIR, SEM–EDX, XRD, and XRF analyses, confirming the presence of every individual component and homogeneous dispersion in the compound. Pilot-scale extrusion pipe trials confirmed uniform filler dispersion when evaluated by SEM-EDX analysis. The filler addition increased both the density and MFI values up to 1.03 g/cm³ and 1.5 g/10 min, respectively, while test results indicated oxidation induction times (OIT) reaching up to 40 min. The developed filler-added pipes demonstrated a significantly higher ring stiffness value of 12.20 kN/m², exceeding the minimum requirement of 8 kN/m² specified for the SN8 class pipes. The POE effectively attenuated rigidity and brittleness typically induced by mineral fillers, yielding this superior stiffness while maintaining adequate ring flexibility. These findings highlight the potential of this tailored filler system to advance the production of lightweight, mechanically robust corrugated piping solutions for demanding infrastructure applications. Full article

The discovery of a mechanism by which bile acids (BAs) regulate fat synthesis by modulating the activation of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in the liver and intestines has highlighted the central role of BAs in triglyceride synthesis in the liver. FXR has been reported as a promising drug target for primary biliary cholangitis, metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, and metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. A large number of FXR modulators with various chemotypes have been developed by many research groups. Although several FXR modulators are advancing into clinical trials, ongoing efforts aim to develop new FXR modulators that minimize the adverse effects associated with long-term administration. To develop drug candidates targeting FXR, various heterocyclic and/or fused heteroaromatic rings have been employed as the core and/or parts of the structures, out of which benzimidazole has been recognized as a valuable structural motif due to its synthetic accessibility and its versatility in constructing structurally diverse target molecules. Herein, we report on the development of FXR modulators incorporating benzimidazole as a fused heteroaromatic ring. Full article

With the deepening of oil and gas exploration and development into ultra-deep and ultra-high pressure environments, the pressure of wellhead equipment is becoming higher and higher. The sealing performance of the casing head hanger is directly related to the safety and reliability of the whole wellhead equipment. Firstly, based on the numerical simulation method, the sealing performance of three different metal seal rings—H-type, X-type, and U-type—under 175 MPa working conditions is compared and analyzed. The simulation results show that the sealing performance of the H-type metal sealing ring is better than that of the X-type and U-type. The parametric analysis method is further used to study the influence of the structural parameters of the convex radius and the bottom angle of the H-ring on its sealing performance. The results show that when the convex radius is designed to be 3 mm, and the bottom angle is 90°, the effective contact width reaches 5.91 mm, and the contact uniformity is the best. Finally, based on the H-type metal sealing ring sample trial-produced with optimized parameters, a 175 MPa nitrogen medium sealing pressure test was completed on an 8 1/8” all-metal sealed mandrel casing hanger. The test results show that the system pressure drop is 0.7 MPa during the 5-min pressure stabilization process, which has good sealing reliability. Full article

Emergency Departments (EDs) are high-pressure environments that place significant psychological and physiological stress on both patients and healthcare staff. Despite increasing awareness of stress-related impacts, proactive stress management interventions have limited uptake in healthcare. This proof-of-concept study will evaluate WeCare: a 6-week, wearable-integrated, self-guided program grounded in a “Learn–Track–Act” framework to support stress regulation, resilience, and wellbeing. The study will examine four key aspects of implementing the program: (1) feasibility, (2) acceptability and usability, (3) preliminary clinical effectiveness (self-report and physiological outcomes), and (4) preliminary economic impacts. Using a mixed-methods, multiple-baseline N-of-1 design, the program will be trialled with up to 32 participants across four ED-exposed groups: patients with non-severe or severe injuries, patients with acute medical presentations, and ED staff. The intervention includes digital psychoeducation, continuous biofeedback via a smart ring, personalised guidance, and evidence-based self-regulation strategies. Assessments will include standardised questionnaires combined with continuous physiological monitoring via a smartwatch, and interviews. Quantitative outcomes include heart rate variability, sleep patterns, perceived stress, wellbeing, healthcare use, and time off work. Qualitative interviews will explore user experience, usability, and perceived barriers. The findings will inform the refinement of the intervention and co-design of a larger-scale trial, contributing valuable evidence to support low-cost, wearable-enabled proactive mental healthcare in high-stress healthcare environments. Full article

Chirality remains the most neglected axis of pesticide residue science. Many active ingredients are sold as racemates although their enantiomers differ in potency, persistence, transport, and toxicology; as a result, total concentration is a poor surrogate for risk. This review synthesizes green and enantioselective strategies spanning the full analytical–remediation continuum. We survey solvent-minimized sample preparation approaches (SPME/TF-SPME, FPSE, µSPE, DLLME with DES/NADES), MS-compatible chiral separations (immobilized polysaccharide CSPs in LC and SFC, cyclodextrin-based selectors in GC, CE/CEC), and HRMS-enabled confirmation and suspect screening. Complex matrices (e.g., fermented beverages such as wine and high-sugar products) are critically discussed, together with practical matrix-tolerant workflows and the complementary role of chiral GC for hydrophobic residues. We then examine emerging enantioselective materials—MIPs, MOFs/COFs, and cyclodextrin-based sorbents—for extraction and preconcentration and evaluate stereoselective removal via adsorption, biodegradation, and chiral photocatalysis. Finally, we propose toxicity-weighted enantiomeric fraction (EF) metrics for decision-making, outline EF-aware green treatment strategies, and identify metrological and regulatory priorities (CRMs, ring trial protocols, FAIR data). Our thesis is simple: to reduce hazards efficiently and sustainably, laboratories and practitioners must measure—and manage—pesticide residues in the chiral dimension. Full article