Category: Nevin Manimala

Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin. 2025 Sep 20:1-11. doi: 10.1080/10255842.2025.2555398. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This work reports the extraction and evaluation of clinically relevant spatiotemporal and statistical gait parameters from developed wireless foot sensor module as recommended by the Biomathics and Canadian Gait Consortium Initiative. Further, normalization of extracted spatiotemporal gait parameters reduces inter-subject physiological variations. To validate their performance towards gait analysis, a machine learning framework is implemented for personnel identification. The study results suggest a promising potential for utilizing the extracted feature-set for the automatic multiclass gait disorders classification. Developed module is a low cost, easy-to-use device, and has potential application for setups with limited access to state of art gait analysis laboratory.

PMID:40975784 | DOI:10.1080/10255842.2025.2555398

Med Sci Monit. 2025 Sep 21;31:e950237. doi: 10.12659/MSM.950237.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND Aphasia is a common consequence of stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) that significantly impairs communication and quality of life. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has emerged as a non-invasive technique potentially enhancing language rehabilitation. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of tDCS in combination with speech-language therapy (SLT) in improving language functions in patients with aphasia. MATERIAL AND METHODS A group of 90 patients diagnosed with TBI- or stroke-related aphasia were randomly assigned to 3 groups: tDCS alone (Group I), SLT alone (Group II), and tDCS combined with SLT (Group III). Treatment procedures spanned 5 months. tDCS sessions lasted 30-40 minutes each (1-1.5 mA), targeting the left dorsolateral (F3) and the right (F4) prefrontal cortex. Language function was assessed using the Frenchay Aphasia Screening Test (FAST), Aphasia Evaluation Scale (SODA), and Token Test (TT). Statistical analyses compared pre- and post-intervention outcomes within and between groups. RESULTS All groups demonstrated significant improvements in language function (p < 0.001). Group III showed the greatest gains in verbal expression, comprehension, and reading (32.6% improvement in FAST scores), significantly outperforming Group I (24.3%) and Group II (17.8%). tDCS alone was more effective than SLT alone (p = 0.04). Combining tDCS with SLT resulted in superior patient-reported improvements in daily communication and confidence in verbal expression compared to either treatment alone. CONCLUSIONS Patients who received combined tDCS and SLT had notable improvements across all measured parameters, including verbal expression, comprehension, reading, and writing, as assessed by the FAST, SODA, and TT tests.

PMID:40975782 | DOI:10.12659/MSM.950237

Prep Biochem Biotechnol. 2025 Sep 20:1-14. doi: 10.1080/10826068.2025.2560541. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Low-grade Gracilaria verrucosa biomass, typically discarded during seaweed processing, remains underutilized despite its rich polysaccharide content. This study explores the valorization of this waste stream through optimized acid hydrolysis, comparing conventional water bath heating and pressurized steam pretreatment. A low-concentration sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) hydrolysis process was statistically optimized using response surface methodology (RSM), employing a central composite design (CCD), yielding a maximum reducing sugar concentration of 56.54 g/L under pressurized steam conditions-substantially higher than 37.51 g/L under water bath treatment. Structural changes in the biomass were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and density measurements, revealing enhanced polysaccharide breakdown under pressurized conditions. Importantly, the sugar-rich hydrolysate, dominated by glucose and xylose, demonstrates potential as a substrate for microbial fermentation, supporting downstream bioproduct development such as biodegradable plastics. These findings offer a sustainable pathway for converting seaweed processing waste into high-value biochemical feedstocks using a mild, cost-effective hydrolysis process.

PMID:40975779 | DOI:10.1080/10826068.2025.2560541

Environ Monit Assess. 2025 Sep 20;197(10):1131. doi: 10.1007/s10661-025-14625-y.

ABSTRACT

Water hardness plays a critical role in regulating pollutant toxicity to freshwater aquatic organisms. It can significantly influence the bioavailability and toxicity intensity of pollutants. Water hardness varies regionally and optimal levels for freshwater aquatic organisms are often species specific. This study employed a meta-analysis approach to systematically evaluate the regulatory effects of water hardness on pollutant toxicity to freshwater aquatic organisms, supplemented by qualitative analysis to provide additional evidence. We systematically searched the Web of Science database to screen and integrate data from 32 eligible studies. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated using random-effects models, with heterogeneity assessed through I² statistics. Qualitative analysis revealed that 20 out of the 23 studies demonstrated significant inverse correlations between water hardness and pollutant toxicity. High-hardness water reduces the bioavailability of pollutants through competitive mechanisms involving calcium and magnesium ions, which mitigates the toxic effects on freshwater aquatic organisms. Quantitative analysis demonstrated that high water hardness exerted a statistically significant protective effect against pollutant toxicity. However, significant heterogeneity was observed among studies, with developmental stages of species, chemical forms of pollutants, and differences in hardness gradient design identified as major confounding factors. This study integrated the effect relationship between water hardness and pollutant toxicity in multiple regions around the world by meta-analysis, confirming that hardness is a key moderating factor for pollutant toxicity.

PMID:40975754 | DOI:10.1007/s10661-025-14625-y

Biogerontology. 2025 Sep 20;26(5):182. doi: 10.1007/s10522-025-10325-9.

ABSTRACT

Aging is characterized as a process resulting in the structural and functional deterioration of several essential organs and tissues. This study aimed to determine the effects of normal aging on the cerebellum by using histological and histometric techniques. A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups: young (4-6 weeks), adult (20-22 weeks), and old (22-24 months). Cerebellar tissue samples were treated using histological and immunohistochemical techniques. The slides were evaluated using a light microscope. Molecular layer thickness was high in the adult group compared to the younger and older groups, whereas the granular layer was significantly thicker in both the adult and elderly groups than in the young rat group (P < 0.05). The total cortical thickness exhibited statistically significant differences among all age groups. The thickest cortex was observed in the adult group (P < 0.05). PAS-positive aging pigment granules were observed in the cytoplasm of Purkinje cells in older rat groups. The density of glial fibrillary acidic protein-immunoreactive (GFAP-IR) astrocytes in old rats was significantly increased compared to young and adult rats with distinct hypertrophy and strong GFAP immunoreactivity in astrocyte cell bodies. It was established that, despite age-related variations that exist, cerebellar folia height and width gradually increased from young to adult rat. In contrast, old rats have decreased cerebellar folia height and width than adults.

PMID:40975742 | DOI:10.1007/s10522-025-10325-9

Spine Deform. 2025 Sep 20. doi: 10.1007/s43390-025-01190-0. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Sagittal spinopelvic alignment (SPA) is originally calculated by the algebraic expression pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis (PI-LL), heralded numerous clinically relevant radiographic measures of spine alignment, e.g., T4-L1-pelvic angle. SPA malalignment compromises spine fusion outcomes and quality of life of typically aging persons. This study investigated gait and SPA of patients with cerebral palsy (CP) using multiple sagittal radiographic measures.

METHODS: Twenty-three patients, mean age 35 years with CP at GMFCS I-II were included. Radiographic measures included C2PA, T4PA, L1PA. PI-LL and T4-L1PA mismatch were defined as > 10°/ < – 10° and > 4°/ < – 4°, respectively. Trunk, pelvis, hips, and knees kinematics were obtained. Statistical parameter mapping (SPM) assessed kinematic differences throughout the gait cycle. Multivariable linear regression assessed the relationship between gait and radiographic parameters.

RESULTS: Fourteen and eleven patients (60.9% and 47.8%) presented with PI-LL and T4-L1PA mismatch, respectively. PI-LL mismatched patients demonstrated significantly lower knee flexion during gait. T4-L1PA mismatched patients demonstrated increased anterior pelvic tilt, hip flexion, and decreased knee flexion during gait, which was consistent with SPM analysis. Multivariable linear regression showed T4-L1PA, C2PA, and anterior pelvic tilt were associated with knee flexion.

CONCLUSION: This is the first study to evaluate SPA parameters and gait kinematics in patients with CP. This observational and preliminary data suggested that SPA and knee flexion in gait may be associated. Whether the variations in gait patterns are coping mechanisms or the cause for SPA malalignment requires clarification. The implications of SPA malalignment on the quality of life of this population warrant further investigations.

PMID:40975725 | DOI:10.1007/s43390-025-01190-0

Environ Monit Assess. 2025 Sep 20;197(10):1130. doi: 10.1007/s10661-025-14591-5.

ABSTRACT

Green vegetation plays a crucial role in monitoring air pollution in a sustainable and cost-effective manner. The present study evaluated the tolerance of ten plant species to air pollution in the Raniganj coalfield area by calculating their Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI). Four adjoining sites, including polluted and reference areas, were selected for comparison. Calotropis procera, with a higher APTI, was reported as a resistant species in all the study areas and considered an excellent performer. In contrast, Cassia tora had the lowest APTI, marking it as sensitive and a potential bio-indicator. Physiological parameters such as pH, relative water content (RWC), and ascorbic acid were higher in tolerant species, whereas total chlorophyll was stable under pollution stress. The concentration of heavy metals in plant leaves followed the trend Manganese (Mn) > Iron (Fe) > Lead (Pb) > Cadmium (Cd) and was higher in polluted sites than in the reference area. The Metal Accumulation Index (MAI) also varied significantly among species. Plants like Calotropis procera and Ficus religiosa, with high APTI and MAI, showed minimal leaf area reduction, indicating greater resilience. Elevated ascorbic acid levels at polluted sites suggest an adaptive antioxidant response to oxidative stress. The findings of the present study highlight the utility of APTI and MAI as effective tools in identifying plant species suitable for monitoring environmental pollution. The results support the integration of tolerant species in greenbelt design and warrant further exploration of their genetic and molecular responses for long-term environmental sustainability. Future research should emphasize on detailed investigations into defense mechanisms, large-scale field validation, seasonal monitoring and the exploration of plant-based phytoremediation strategies to strengthen their role in urban and industrial landscape planning.

PMID:40975713 | DOI:10.1007/s10661-025-14591-5

J Prosthodont. 2025 Sep 20. doi: 10.1111/jopr.70029. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The cement interface is particularly important for successful zirconia-titanium base (Ti-base) restorations, as retention relies primarily on adhesive bonding. The aim of this in vitro study was to assess and compare the influence of a universal resin cement used with either a self-adhesive or adhesive bonding protocol versus adhesive resin cements on the retention of zirconia to Ti-base abutments, with and without autoclaving.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Zirconia buildups were cemented to titanium-base abutments using RelyX Universal (RXU) as a self-adhesive resin cement, RXU with a primer (RXU/SUP), Panavia V5 (PV5) with primer, or multilink hybrid abutment (MHA) with primer. Half of the specimens were autoclaved. Push-out testing was performed, and data were statistically evaluated using the analysis of variance (ANOVA), Tukey honest significant difference test, and family-wise error rate method.

RESULTS: Of the nonautoclaved groups, RXU/SUP showed the highest initial mean push-out load (1576.45 ± 195.86 N), followed by MHA (1268.10 ± 160.67 N), RXU (959.66 ± 139.24 N), and PV5 (905.84 ± 298.38 N). Autoclaving did not have a significant influence on cement push-out load when compared directly within cement pairs. The push-out load of RXU used as self-adhesive cement was similar to PV5 with primer. Retention of RXU/SUP and MHA groups was significantly higher than that of RXU or PV5.

CONCLUSION: In this in vitro study, RXU performed as well as PV5 groups and required the fewest preparation steps, suggesting it may be a good option for improving workflow efficiency. Results indicated a marginally positive effect of autoclaving between pairs, however, it was not significant.

PMID:40975710 | DOI:10.1111/jopr.70029

HPB (Oxford). 2025 Sep 5:S1365-182X(25)01594-1. doi: 10.1016/j.hpb.2025.09.001. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/AIM: Robotic platforms in Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) surgery improved surgical precision and recovery. However, their adoption remains inconsistent. This study aims to assess the current status of robotic surgery in HPB procedures.

METHODS: The Innovation Committee of the European-African Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (E-AHPBA) developed a web-based survey. The survey collected data from 82 European and African centers on the availability, usage, and surgical volumes of robotic platforms in liver and pancreatic resections. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze responses.

RESULTS: The survey found that 94% (77/82) of centers use robotic platforms for HPB surgery, but only 6% (5/82) rely solely on robotic systems. The Da Vinci Surgical System was the most commonly used platform, present in 88% (72/82) of centers. Regarding surgical volumes, 62% (51/82) of centers perform at least 20 robot-assisted liver resections annually, whereas only 2% (2/82) exceed 80 procedures. In pancreatic surgery, 28% (23/82) of centers do not utilize robotic platforms. Additionally, 37% (30/82) of centers perform fewer than 10 robot-assisted HPB resections per year. Conversely, 38% (31/82) report using robotic platforms 2-3 days per week.

DISCUSSION: Robotic platforms are increasingly incorporated into HPB surgery. However, their widespread adoption is limited by economic, logistical, and utilization constraints.

PMID:40975703 | DOI:10.1016/j.hpb.2025.09.001

Med Dosim. 2025 Sep 19:S0958-3947(25)00050-0. doi: 10.1016/j.meddos.2025.08.002. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to compare the performance of RapidPlan models developed by different planners and to evaluate the impact of inter-planner variability on treatment plan quality. Three planners with different levels of clinical experience developed RapidPlan models (Models A, B, and C) using the same set of 30 prostate cancer cases. Each planner manually created treatment plans for these cases, referring to PlanIQ for dosimetric guidance. PlanIQ provides estimates of achievable dose sparing for organs-at-risk (OAR) based on computed tomography images and anatomical contours, and was used to guide the planning process. Each model was then used to generate treatment plans (Plans A, B, and C). The models were evaluated using 12 independent cases not included in model training, and plan quality was assessed using dose-volume parameters for the planning target volume excluding the rectum (PTV-Rectum), rectum, and bladder. Plan A yielded better dose uniformity for the PTV-Rectum, as indicated by lower D2% and higher D98%. For the rectum, the mean volume receiving 58 Gy (V58 Gy) was lowest in Plan C, followed by Plans B and A, indicating that Model C provided the most effective dose sparing. Plan A yielded superior dose uniformity for the PTV-Rectum, whereas Plan C more effectively spared OAR. Although no statistically significant differences were observed, the results suggest that planner-related variability can influence model performance. These findings underscore the importance of quality control in model construction and support the feasibility of shared or standardized RapidPlan models, particularly in resource-limited settings.

PMID:40975700 | DOI:10.1016/j.meddos.2025.08.002