Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using [⁶⁸Ga]-fibroblast-activating protein inhibitor (FAPI) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging for diagnosing pulmonary fibrosis in a mouse model. We also examined its value in monitoring treatment response and compared it with traditional [¹⁸F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET and computed tomography (CT) imaging. Methods: A model of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis was established using intratracheal injection of bleomycin (BLM, 2 mg/kg) into C57BL/6 male mice. For the treatment of IPF, a daily oral dose of 400 mg/kg/day of pirfenidone was administered from 9 to 28 days after the establishment of the model. Disease progression and treatment efficacy were assessed at different stages of the disease every week for four weeks using CT, [¹⁸F]FDG PET, and [⁶⁸Ga]FAPI PET (baseline imaging performed at week 0). Mice were sacrificed and lung tissues were harvested for hematoxylin-eosin staining, picrosirius red staining, and immunohistochemical staining for glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and FAP. Expression levels of GLUT1 and FAP in pathological sections were quantified. Correlations between imaging parameters and pathological quantitative values were analyzed. Results: CT, [¹⁸F]FDG PET and [⁶⁸Ga]FAPI PET revealed anatomical and functional changes in the lung that reflected progression of pulmonary fibrosis. In untreated mice with pulmonary fibrosis, lung uptake of [¹⁸F]FDG peaked on day 14, while [⁶⁸Ga]FAPI uptake and mean lung density peaked on day 21. In mice treated with pirfenidone, mean lung density and lung uptake of both PET tracers decreased. Mean lung density, [¹⁸F]FDG uptake, and [⁶⁸Ga]FAPI uptake correlated well with quantitative values of picrosirius red staining, GLUT1 expression, and FAP expression, respectively. Conclusions: Although traditional CT and [¹⁸F]FDG PET reflect anatomical and metabolic status in fibrotic lung, [⁶⁸Ga]FAPI PET provides a means of evaluating fibrosis progression and monitoring treatment response. Full article

The mutation HBA2:c.*94A>G (AATAAA>AATAAG; rs63751269) is a 3′-UTR (3 prime untranslated region) single-nucleotide substitution in the polyadenylation (PA) signal of HBA2 (α^PA:A→G). This pathogenic (CADD score, 14.92) variant is sporadic in the Arabian Peninsula. It results in inefficient mRNA processing, transcription termination, and possibly using an alternate cryptic downstream polyadenylation signal. As a result, the allele α^T (or α^T-Saudi) poses challenges in premarital counseling with respect to fetal risk of hemoglobin H disease. Homozygous HBA2:c.*94A>G (α^Tα/α^Tα) results in moderate-to-severe microcytosis (mean red cell volume, MCV, 55 to 65 fL), reflecting markedly impaired hemoglobin synthesis (hemoglobin H disease). Homozygous rightward -α^3.7 (a 3804-neocleotide deletion allele, NM_000517.4:c.[-2_-3delAC; −α^3.7]), on the other hand, results in mild microcytosis (MCV, 70 to 75 fL, alpha-thalassemia trait). Thus, HBA2:c.*94A>G is more damaging than -α^3.7. Consistently, the value of MCV in compound heterozygosity, HBA2:c.*94A>G and −α^3.7, is 65 to 70 fL. We report here a healthy couple who presented for premarital counseling on their hemoglobinopathy. The man has homozygous HBA2:c.*94A>G (α^Tα/α^Tα), and the woman has compound heterozygous (−α^3.7/α^Tα, also annotated as: ^−3.7α/α^Tα). As a result, the genotype of their offspring would be that of the father (α^Tα/α^Tα) or the mother (−α^3.7/α^Tα). The counseling was mainly based on the benign phenotypes of the parents. As both were asymptomatic and their anemia was clinically insignificant, they proceeded with the marriage. Full article

V-set immunoglobulin domain-containing 4 (VSIG4) is a B7 family protein with known roles as a C3 fragment complement receptor involved in pathogen clearance and a negative regulator of T cell activation by an undetermined mechanism. VSIG4 expression is specific for tumor-associated and select tissue-resident macrophages. Increased expression of VSIG4 has been associated with worse survival in multiple cancer indications. Based upon computational analysis of transcript data across thousands of tumor and normal tissue samples, we hypothesized that VSIG4 has an important role in promoting M2-like immune suppressive macrophages and that targeting VSIG4 could relieve VSIG4-mediated macrophage suppression by repolarizing tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) to an inflammatory phenotype. We have also observed a cancer-specific pattern of VSIG4 isoform distribution, implying a change in the functional regulation in cancer. Through a series of in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo assays we demonstrate that anti-VSIG4 antibodies repolarize M2 macrophages and induce an immune response culminating in T cell activation. Anti-VSIG4 antibodies induce pro-inflammatory cytokines in M-CSF plus IL-10-driven human monocyte-derived M2c macrophages. Across patient-derived tumor samples from multiple tumor types, anti-VSIG4 treatment resulted in the upregulation of cytokines associated with TAM repolarization and T cell activation and chemokines involved in immune cell recruitment. VSIG4 blockade is also efficacious in a syngeneic mouse model as monotherapy as it enhances efficacy in combination with anti-PD-1, and the effect is dependent on the systemic availability of CD8⁺ T cells. Thus, VSIG4 represents a promising new target capable of triggering an anti-cancer response via multiple key immune mechanisms. Full article

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of upper limb control exercises on upper limb function, respiration, balance, and activities of daily living in patients with stroke. Materials and Methods: The 28 patients who met the selection criteria were randomly assigned to two groups of 14 patients each. Subsequently, upper limb control exercises using real-time feedback were applied. The same interventional exercise was applied to both the less-affected and affected limbs of the study participants, who were classified into a less-affected side upper limb control group and an affected side upper limb control exercise group. Interventional exercises, 30 min each, were performed five times weekly for 4 weeks, and follow-up examinations were performed 2 weeks after the end of exercise. Electronic muscle strength measurements and an electronic goniometer were used to evaluate upper limb function. A spirometer was used to measure respiration. Balance ability was evaluated using a force plate pressure distribution measuring system with a sensor that detects the movement of the body center on the ground. Daily life movements were evaluated using the Korean version of the modified Barthel index. Results: When examining the results, the upper limb function on the paralyzed side showed an increase in the electromyographic strength of shoulder joint depression and flexion angle. Improvements were also observed in respiration (forced vital capacity [L] and forced expiratory volume in 1 s [L]), balance (95% confidence ellipse area [mm²] and center of pressure displacement [mm]), and daily life activities, all of which showed statistically significant differences in the time × group interaction effect (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Thus, it was found that the upper limb control exercise on the less-affected side had a significant effect when the exercise was performed together with treatment on the affected side in patients with stroke. It is anticipated that this study will provide basic data for evaluating both the trunk and upper limbs of the less-affected and affected sides. Full article

Chatbots are computer programs that mimic human conversation using text or voice or both. Users’ acceptance of chatbots is highly influenced by their persona. Users develop a sense of familiarity with chatbots as they use them, so they become more approachable, and this encourages them to interact with the chatbots more readily by fostering favorable opinions of the technology. In this study, we examine the moderating effects of persona traits on students’ acceptance and use of chatbot technology at higher educational institutions in the UK. We use an Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (Extended UTAUT2). Through a self-administrated survey using a questionnaire, data were collected from 431 undergraduate and postgraduate computer science students. This study employed a Likert scale to measure the variables associated with chatbot acceptance. To evaluate the gathered data, Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) coupled with multi-group analysis (MGA) using SmartPLS3 were used. The estimated Cronbach’s alpha highlighted the accuracy and legitimacy of the findings. The results showed that the emerging factors that influence students’ adoption and use of chatbot technology were habit, effort expectancy, and performance expectancy. Additionally, it was discovered that the Extended UTAUT2 model did not require grades or educational level to moderate the correlations. These results are important for improving user experience and they have implications for academics, researchers, and organizations, especially in the context of native chatbots. Full article

The subpar performance of housing construction projects has been attributed to their reliance on traditional construction methods. In response to this issue, numerous innovative approaches, including modern methods of construction (MMC), have been employed to facilitate the execution of housing projects. The present study explores the use of MMC, specifically lean, offsite, and simulation (LOS) techniques, in delivering housing construction projects within the United Kingdom. Employing a qualitative research approach, eighteen relevant stakeholders from England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland were interviewed to fulfil the study’s purpose. The findings demonstrate that the integration of LOS techniques is advantageous in the delivery of housing construction projects. Moreover, governmental support, collaboration, leadership, training, stakeholder engagement, and environmental consideration were identified as critical factors facilitating the implementation of LOS in housing project delivery. This study provides valuable insights into the key factors that support the adoption of LOS techniques within the UK context and can serve as a guide for stakeholders in the future use of LOS in the UK housing sector. Furthermore, the empirical and qualitative evidence presented on the application of lean, offsite, and simulation (LOS) in housing delivery in the UK can contribute to efforts to address the country’s housing shortage. Full article

Climate change is characterized by shifts in temperature and climate patterns. Constructing new high-rise environments using materials that incorporate agro-industrial waste can help mitigate this impact without compromising technological properties. This study produced vitreous foams intended to replace natural aggregates in lightweight concrete partially. These foams were sintered in a microwave oven at temperatures of 750 °C, 800 °C, and 850 °C, utilizing glass powder and sugarcane bagasse ash as raw materials. The homogenization and preparation of these materials were conducted through a mechanical pelletization process, employing a constant rotation engine at approximately 40 rpm. The efficacy of microwave sintering was assessed by comparing the outcomes with those from sintering in a conventional electric muffle furnace under identical conditions. The results indicated that the microwave-sintered vitreous foams exhibited the following values for apparent density (≤0.30 g/cm³), porosity (86% to 94%), and compressive strength (0.48 MPa to 0.58 MPa), which align with the global standards for commercial vitreous foams. The microwave sintering route proved to be economically feasible by reducing sintering time and, consequently, energy costs, without sacrificing technological properties. The materials produced in this study offer a promising solution to minimize the environmental impact associated with constructing new buildings, particularly tall structures. Additionally, they support the circular economy by converting waste into valuable by-products. Full article

Background/Objectives: A highly porous titanium cup with a three-dimensional metal interface was recently introduced to improve biological fixation and survival. However, radiography has revealed concerns regarding these cups, despite their excellent short- and mid-term clinical outcomes. This study compared the clinical and radiographic results of a highly porous titanium cup with those of a hydroxyapatite-coated porous titanium cup after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods: Fifty-one primary THAs were investigated. A highly porous titanium cup was used in 17 hips, and a hydroxyapatite-coated porous titanium cup was used in 34 hips. No significant differences in preoperative patient demographic characteristics were observed between the two groups. The 2-year postoperative clinical and radiographic results were compared. Results: Radiolucent lines were observed in 13 (76%) of 17 hips with highly porous titanium cups and in none (0%) of 34 hips with hydroxyapatite-coated porous titanium cups (p < 0.001). In the highly porous titanium cup group, radiolucent lines were observed in five hips (29%) in one zone, two hips (11%) in two zones, and six hips (35%) in three zones. No cup loosening was observed in either group. Conclusions: Radiolucent lines were significantly more frequent in highly porous titanium cups. This study suggests that, compared to the three-dimensional structure of porous titanium, the hydroxyapatite coating of porous titanium had a greater influence on bone ingrowth in the short term. The meaning of these findings in the long-term is unclear yet. Full article

This study evaluated the impact of different land use types on groundwater dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations and annual DOC efflux from drained peatlands to catchment runoff, providing insights into the mechanisms of carbon stock changes in peatland soils. We measured groundwater chemical properties and various environmental variables, and calculated daily runoff and evapotranspiration for 2021 to estimate monthly and annual DOC efflux and analyzed main affecting factors in different peatland land use types. The highest DOC concentrations in groundwater were found in Scots pine forests and active peat extraction sites, with values of 113.7 mg L⁻¹ and 109.7 mg L⁻¹, respectively, and the lowest in silver birch forests and croplands, at 51.9 mg L⁻¹ and 18.6 mg L⁻¹, respectively. There were statistically significant correlations, including a strong negative correlation between DOC concentrations and several groundwater chemical properties, such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), Ca, Mg, and K concentrations. The concentrations of DOC in the groundwater of drained peatland showed significant variation between different land use types. The highest annual DOC efflux was observed in active peat extraction sites, at 513.1 kg ha⁻¹ y⁻¹, while the lowest was in grasslands, at 61.9 kg ha⁻¹ y⁻¹, where Ca and Mg concentrations, as well as EC, were the highest. Continuous monitoring of these concentration patterns is essential. Full article

The correct assessment of the vertical jump height depends on an accurate and reliable measurement tool. This study aimed to determine the concurrent validity and reliability of the My Jump 2 app used for estimating the maximum height (MH) of the counter-movement jump (CMJ). Twenty-one male adults participated in this study. The MH of the CMJ was estimated based on the displacement of the jumper’s center of mass (force platform), the displacement time of the reflective marker placed on the jumper’s sacrum (smartphone, My Jump 2-DT) and the flight time of the jumper (smartphone, My Jump 2-FT). The assessment of the concurrent validity showed a poor agreement (ICC = 0.362; Bland–Altman bias = 12.4 cm) between the My Jump 2-FT and force platform (p < 0.001), and a good agreement (ICC = 0.858; Bland–Altman bias = −0.2 cm) between the My Jump 2-DT and force platform (p < 0.001). The ICC values for internal consistency (>0.9) indicated the excellent reliability of all measurement tools (p < 0.001). The findings revealed the high accuracy and good reliability of the My Jump 2 app for the new method of MH estimation for the CMJ, including the displacement time of the marker placed on the jumper’s sacrum. Full article

The usage of copper (Cu) ores containing low or no arsenic (As) has reduced, and Cu ores containing high levels of As have emerged as vital mineral resources for Cu extraction and processing. The quality of the Cu ores has decreased from 1.6% to approximately 1.0%. The proportion of As to Cu in 15% of Cu resources currently reaches 1:5. However, during the extraction and processing of Cu ores, As presents significant environmental harm. Hence, safely and effectively removing As is paramount in Cu smelting and processing, holding substantial importance in fostering environmentally sustainable practices within the Cu extraction and processing industry. This article consolidates the resource distribution of As-containing Cu (ACC) ores, comprehensively and systematically evaluates the present advancements in extracting techniques for these minerals, and identifies the challenges inherent in pyrometallurgical and wet processes for treating ACC deposits. Pyrometallurgy is a simple primary roasting technique and has widespread applicability in the treatment of various ACC minerals. Its disadvantages are the emission of exhaust gas and the high treatment costs associated with it. The wet arsenic removal method boasts advantages including minimal air pollution and a high resource recovery rate, significantly aiding in Cu concentrate recovery; its major drawback is the production of As-containing wastewater. The hydrometallurgical removal of As from ACC mines involves extracting As through leaching. Recently, biometallurgy has presented innovative solutions using specialized microorganisms to bioleach or bioabsorb As, but large-scale industrial applications still lack specific practical implementation. This review explores the underlying causes of the challenges encountered in processing ACC minerals. Additionally, it highlights pyrometallurgical roasting coupled with high-temperature filtration as a pivotal advancement in the extraction and processing of ACC ores. Full article

According to the definition provided by the United Nations, “climate change” describes the persistent alterations in temperatures and weather trends. These alterations may arise naturally, such as fluctuations in the solar cycle. Nonetheless, since the 19th century, human activities have emerged as the primary agent for climate change, primarily attributed to the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. Climate change can potentially influence the well-being, agricultural production, housing, safety, and employment opportunities for all individuals. The immune system is an important interface through which global climate change affects human health. Extreme heat, weather events and environmental pollutants could impair both innate and adaptive immune responses, promoting inflammation and genomic instability, and increasing the risk of autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. Moreover, climate change has an impact on both soil and gut microbiome composition, which can further explain changes in human health outcomes. This narrative review aims to explore the influence of climate change on human health and disease, focusing specifically on its effects on the immune system and gut microbiota. Understanding how these factors contribute to the development of physical and mental illness may allow for the design of strategies aimed at reducing the negative impact of climate and pollution on human health. Full article

The Republic of Venice was one of the longest-lived states in modern history, and its stability and survival have been studied through many different angles. One of the main research angles is to try and find pivotal moments in its history that explain its eventual demise. In this paper, through the rigorous statistical analysis of a dataset of marriages by nobles in the Republic, we attempt to define a methodology for the detection of these events through mono and multivariate changepoint analysis, validating the proposed methodology through cross-validation of different procedures, as well as matching the results to historical events. Our analysis shows that these changepoints occur with statistical significance and that they match political and historical events. These results can be built upon for a better understanding of the historical causes of the success and failure of the Republic of Venice and, by extension, other states. Full article

A new hydrothermal hot isostatic pressing (HHIP) approach, involving hydrothermal water conditions and no usage of inert gas, was hypothesized and tested on 3D-printed Al-10%Si-0.3%Mg (%Wt) parts. The aluminum-based metal was practically inert at the applied HHIPing conditions of 300–350 MPa and 250–350 °C, which enabled the employment of a long (6–24 h) HHIP treatment with hardly any loss of material (the overall loss due to corrosion was mostly <0.5% w/w). Applying the new approach on the above-mentioned samples resulted in an 85.7% reduction in the AM micro-pores, along with a 90.8% reduction in the pores’ surface area at a temperature of 350 °C, which is much lower than the 500–520 °C applied in common argon-based aluminum HIPing treatments, while practically maintaining the as-recieved microstructure. These results show that better mechanical properties can be expected when using the suggested treatment without affecting the material fatigue resistance due to grain growth. The proof of concept presented in this work can pave the way to applying the new HHIPing approach to other AM metal parts. Full article

Pyroptosis represents a type of cell death mechanism notable for its cell membrane disruption and the subsequent release of proinflammatory cytokines. The Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing inflammasome 3 (NLRP3) plays a critical role in the pyroptosis mechanism associated with various diseases resulting from particulate matter (PM) exposure. Tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) is a synthetic antioxidant commonly used in a variety of foods and products. The aim of this study is to examine the potential of tBHQ as a therapeutic agent for managing sinonasal diseases induced by PM exposure. The occurrence of NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent pyroptosis in RPMI 2650 cells treated with PM < 4 µm in size was confirmed using Western blot analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results for the pyroptosis metabolites IL-1β and IL-18. In addition, the inhibitory effect of tBHQ on PM-induced pyroptosis was confirmed using Western blot and immunofluorescence techniques. The inhibition of tBHQ-mediated pyroptosis was abolished upon nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) knockdown, indicating its involvement in the antioxidant mechanism. tBHQ showed potential as a therapeutic agent for sinonasal diseases induced by PM because NLRP3 inflammasome activation was effectively suppressed via the Nrf2 pathway. Full article

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different diluents and freezing methods on the quality of thawed sperm after cryopreservation and find an inexpensive and practical method for freezing Hu ram semen for use in inseminations under farm conditions. Ejaculates were collected from five Hu rams. In experiment I, ejaculates were diluted with eight different freezing diluents (basic diluents A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H). After dilution and cooling, the samples were loaded into 0.25 mL straws and frozen using the liquid nitrogen fumigation method. In experiment II, diluent C was used as the basic diluent and the semen was frozen using liquid nitrogen fumigation and two program-controlled cooling methods. For analysis, frozen samples were evaluated in terms of motility parameters (total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM)), biokinetic characteristics (straight-line velocity (VSL), average path velocity (VAP), curvilinear velocity (VCL), amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH), wobble movement coefficient (WOB), average motion degree (MAD)), reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, and membrane and acrosome integrity. In experiment I, diluent C had higher TM, PM, and acrosome and membrane integrity and lower ROS compared to other extenders (p < 0.05) except diluent A. Diluent C exhibited higher (p < 0.05) VCL, VAP, ALH, WOB, and MAD compared to diluents B, D, E, and F. In experiment II, TM and all biokinetic characteristics did not show significant differences (p > 0.05) amongst the three freezing methods. Liquid nitrogen fumigation resulted in higher (p < 0.05) PM, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, and lower ROS level compared to the program. In conclusion, the thawed semen diluted with diluent C had higher quality compared to other diluents. The liquid nitrogen fumigation demonstrated superior semen cryopreservation effects compared to the program-controlled cooling method using diluent C. Full article

Cotton fiber, a crucial and sustainable resource for global textile production, undergoes a complex five-stage developmental process, encompassing initiation, elongation, transition, secondary cell wall biosynthesis, and maturation. These elongated single-cell fibers originate from the outer ovule epidermis. The development of cotton fibers involves intricate changes in gene expression and physiological processes, resulting in a nearly pure cellulose product that is vital for the global cotton industry. Decoding the genes associated with fiber development enhances our understanding of cotton fiber mechanisms and facilitates the cultivation of varieties with enhanced quality. In recent decades, advanced omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, have played a pivotal role in identifying the genes and gene products linked to cotton fiber development, including the MYB transcription factor family, which coordinates cotton fiber development. Molecular studies have revealed the transcription factors, like MYB, WRKY, Homeodomain Leucine Zipper (HD-ZIP), and basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH), influencing fiber initiation and elongation. The intricate interplay of phytohormones, like auxin, gibberellic acid (GA), brassinosteroids (BRs), jasmonic acid (JA), ethylene, abscisic acid (ABA), and cytokinin, is explored, providing a comprehensive perspective on the shaping of cotton fibers. Numerous candidate genes and cellular processes affecting various aspects of fiber development hold promise for genetic engineering or marker-assisted breeding to improve fiber quality. This review presents a comprehensive overview of key achievements in cotton molecular biology, with a specific emphasis on recent advancements in understanding the transcription factors and phytohormones involved in cotton fiber initiation and elongation. Full article

The Kaladawan iron deposit is located in the North Altyn Tagh and exhibits occurrences of iron ore bodies at the contact zone between Ordovician magmatic rocks (basalts, rhyolite, and granodiorite) and marble. However, controversy persists regarding the genetic classification and metallogenic mechanism of this deposit. Through a field investigation, single mineral in situ geochemical analysis, whole-rock geochemical analysis, and Fe isotope determination, the following conclusions are made: (1) Ti-(Ni/Cr) and (V/Ti)-Fe diagrams indicate that the magnetite from all studied rocks underwent hydrothermal metasomatism, while (Ni/(Cr + Mn))-(Ti + V) and (Ca + Al + Mn)-(Ti + V) diagrams suggest a skarn origin for these magnetites. Therefore, it can be inferred that the Kaladawan iron deposit is skarn-type. (2) The iron ore exhibits similar rare-earth-element characteristics to the altered basalt. Additionally, the altered basalts (δ⁵⁶Fe = 0.024~0.100‰) are more enriched in light Fe isotopes than the unaltered basalts (δ⁵⁶Fe = 0.129~0.197‰) at the same location, indicating that the ore-forming materials of the Kaladawan iron ore are mainly derived from basaltic rocks. (3) According to the law of mass conservation and the intermediate Fe isotopic composition of the iron ore between the granodiorite and basalt, the hydrothermal fluid for the formation of iron ores was inferred to be derived from the late intrusive granodiorite. Full article

Abstract: Background: We assessed the long-term (24 months) efficacy and safety of monthly calcifediol (0.266 mg) in the correction and maintenance of total 25(OH)D levels in postmenopausal women with basal values <30 ng/mL. Methods: We initially enrolled 45 consecutive patients during the period September 2019–September 2020. After an initial visit, patients were instructed to return at 3, 6, 9, 12 and 24 months for measuring serum total 25(OH)D, ionised calcium, creatinine and isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase (bALP). Here, we report only the per-protocol analysis, because the COVID-19 pandemic precluded adherence to the scheduled visits for some patients. Results: The patients’ mean age was 62.4 ± 9.0 years. Mean basal 25(OH)D levels were 20.5 ± 5.3 ng/mL. There was a continuous increase of mean 25(OH)D values (p for trend < 0.001). However, mean values at month 24 (36.7 ± 15.9) were not significantly different in respect to values at month 12 (41.2 ± 11.18). At 24 months, only 1 out 19 patients had a value <20 ng/mL. There was a significant decrease with time of mean values of bALP (p < 0.0216), with no significant changes between 12 and 24 months. No significant changes were observed as far as ionised calcium or creatinine were concerned. Conclusion: The long-term administration of calcifediol maintains stable and sustained 25(OH)D concentrations, with no safety concerns. Full article

Background: In the last decade, increasing evidence has suggested that high-grade serous ovarian cancers may have their origin in the fallopian tube rather than the ovary. This emerging theory presents an opportunity to prevent epithelial ovarian cancer by incorporating prophylactic bilateral salpingectomy into all surgical procedures for average-risk women. The aim of this review is to investigate the hypothesis that bilateral salpingectomy (BS) may have a negative impact on ovarian reserve, not only following hysterectomy for benign uterine pathologies but also when performed during cesarean sections as a method of sterilization or as a treatment for hydrosalpinx in Assisted Reproductive Technology interventions. Methods: PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, and Cochrane were searched for original studies, meta-analyses, and opinion articles published between 2014 and 2024. Results: Out of 114 records from the database search, after the removal of duplicates, 102 articles were considered relevant for the current study. Conclusions: Performing opportunistic salpingectomy seems to have no adverse impact on ovarian function in the short term. However, because there is an existing risk of damaging ovarian blood supply during salpingectomy, there are concerns about potential long-term adverse effects on the ovarian reserve, which need further investigation. Full article

Self-driving car research can effectively reduce the occurrence of traffic accidents, but when encountering sudden people or obstacles cutting into the lane, how to reduce the damage hazard to traffic participants and make ethical decisions is the key point that the development of self-driving technology must break through. When faced with sudden traffic participants, self-driving vehicles need to make ethical decisions between ramming into the traffic participants or other obstacles. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a model decision planning method based on multi-objective evaluation function path evaluation of local path planning. This method addresses the ethical model disagreement problem of self-driving vehicles encountering traffic participants and other obstacles. The aim is to ensure the safety of the lives of the traffic participants and achieve the vehicle’s reasonable ethical decision planning. Firstly, when anticipating traffic participants and other obstacles, the vehicle’s planning intention decisions are obtained through fuzzy algorithms. Different sets of curves for various positions are generated based on dynamic programming algorithms. These curves are then fitted using B-spline curves, incorporating obstacle collision costs, and classifying obstacles into different types with varying cost weights. Secondly, factors such as path length and average path curvature are considered for path total cost calculations. Finally, a local path that avoids traffic participants is obtained. This path is then tracked using a pure pursuit algorithm. The proposed algorithm’s effectiveness is verified through simulation experiments and comparative analyses conducted on the MATLAB platform. In conclusion, this research promotes a safer and more sustainable transport system in line with the principles of sustainable development by addressing the challenges associated with safety and ethical decision making in self-driving cars. Full article

In an era where technology increasingly blurs the boundaries between humans and machines, artifacts have become crucial mediums for critically examining the technological, social, and ethical dimensions of Human–Computer Interaction (HCI). This study explores artifacts as a key yet underutilized medium for speculation in the evolving field of HCI from a systemic perspective. While artifacts increasingly enable HCI to move beyond optimizing user experiences towards critically and collaboratively envisioning futures, perspectives comprehensively examining artifacts across the speculative design process and their impacts remain limited. Through a literature review of 53 speculative artifacts within the scope of HCI, this research elucidates the roles of artifacts across intention, making, and impact. Four categories of speculative artifacts emerged—Reflective, Exploratory, Interventional, and Heuristic—demonstrating how artifacts employ material, ambiguous, functional, and provocative forms to shape experiences, behaviors, and social norms. This study highlights the need for HCI to increasingly recognize the capacity of artifacts to support critical, sustained, participatory speculation by providing tangible representations of alternative futures. Speculative artifacts thus serve as powerful mediums to engage in societal discourse around the ethics and values of emerging technologies and to envision and enact responsible innovation. The materialization of alternative futures through artifacts allows researchers to reimagine socio-technological relationships, pushing design into inclusive, controversial spaces where diverse stakeholders can collaboratively shape desired and undesired futures. Full article