Optimal Fit Research Articles

Factors Influencing the Development of Metachronous Fractures in Patients with Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures Treated with Conservative Management or Vertebroplasty

Objectives: We aimed to analyze potential predictors for the development of metachronous fractures (MFs) after osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs), with particular focus on radiological variables obtained at initial X-rays and computed tomography (CT) examinations, treatment applied (conservative management [CM] versus percutaneous vertebroplasty [PV]), and fractures located at the thoracolumbar junction (T11-L2). Methods: We conducted a two-center, observational retrospective study, including patients with single-level OVFs treated with CM or VP. We collected socio-demographic, radiological and treatment-related variables. We performed descriptive and contrastive bivariate analyses based on the presence of MFs and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to obtain adjusted and crude odds ratios (aOR and cOR, respectively) for predicting MFs. Finally, we performed receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses to determine the discriminative power of the models obtained. Results: Of the 90 patients included, 20 (22.2%) developed one or more MFs (15 in CM and 5 in PV groups, respectively; p = 0.037). The treatment group (aOR for PV, 0.087; 95%CI, 0.015–0.379), presence of intravertebral cleft (aOR, 5.62; 95%CI, 1.84–19.2) and difference in posterior height loss between X-rays and CT (aOR, 0.926; 95%CI, 0.856–0.992) were identified as significant predictors for MFs, while Genant’s numerical classification showed a trend toward significance (aOR, 1.97; 95%CI, 0.983–4.19; p = 0.064). A multivariate model combining these four variables showed optimal fitting and correctly discriminated over 80% of cases (AUC, 0.828; 95%CI, 0.725–0.930). Factors associated with MFs in thoracolumbar junction OVFs were intravertebral cleft, CM, posterior height loss in CT, and DGOU OF3 fractures. Conclusions: The presence of intravertebral cleft, a difference in posterior height loss between X-rays and CT equal to or lower than 2.4%, higher grades of Genant’s numerical classification, and application of CM instead of PV are predictors of MFs. These findings improve our understanding of the factors involved in the development of MFs, but they need to be validated prospectively.

Application of Developing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Techniques to Model Pan Evaporation Trends in Slovak River Sub-Basins

The modeling of pan evaporation (Ep) trends in Slovak river sub-basins was conducted using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) techniques algorithms to accurately calculate evaporation rates based on daily climate data from 2010 to 2023 across eight sub-basins in the Slovak Republic. The AI modeling results reveal that the Bodrog, Hornád, Ipeľ, Morava, Slaná, and Váh river basins are experiencing increases in evaporation, while the Dunaj and Hron rivers show declining trends. This divergence may indicate varying ecological factors influencing the evaporation dynamics of each river. A comprehensive set of 28 machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models was employed, including ML techniques such as linear regression, tree-based, support vector machines (both with and without kernels), ensemble, and Gaussian process methods; as well as DL approaches like neural networks (narrow, medium, wide, bilayered, and trilayered). Among these, stepwise linear regression provided the most optimal fit. The minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR) method was utilized for feature selection to balance relevance and redundancy effectively. The results suggest that emphasizing relative humidity (RH) and minimum temperature (tmin) significantly enhances accuracy, highlighting the critical roles of these factors in modeling pan evaporation trends. The results offer precise evaporation analyses to improve water management and lessen scarcity.

Nuances of the Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Technical Review.

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) achieves anterior and posterior spinal arthrodesis through a single approach. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) methods reduce surgical morbidity while achieving positive outcomes. The major MIS-TLIF techniques, from tubular to endoscopic approaches, are reviewed with a discussion on the incorporation of new technologies and a comparative review of their outcomes. MIS-TLIF approaches span a spectrum of visualization methods, with technical nuances related to patient and surgeon-specific factors determining optimal fit. To date, the superiority of 1 technique has yet to be definitively determined. Existing techniques may be integrated in a personalized manner to optimize surgical utility. Selection of an MIS-TLIF modality relies on a calculus between patient characteristics and surgeon faculty; proper selection can offer significant benefits to patients with spine disease. Emerging technologies for MIS-TLIF comprise a major source of development and clinical translation, while the safe and effective use of these techniques promises greater patient benefit in the right populations.

BILEVEL OPTIMIZED RECURSIVE FEATURE ELIMINATOR FOR CERVICAL CANCER FEATURE SELECTION PROCESS

An immense need has emerged in several areas of biological area for the development of prediction algorithms capable of managing the increasing complexity of high-dimensional information. In developing countries, Cervical Cancer (CC) kills more women than any other disease or accident, and it's the top cause of death among women worldwide. Early detection and treatment lead to improved results and longer patient survival, which in turn reduces cancer mortality. For the majority of real-world data science problems, not all dataset variables are useful for building models. The accuracy of a classifier and the model's ability to generalize are both reduced by repeated variables. Furthermore, adding more variables increases the overall complexity of a model. Deep learning's feature selection approach is a good fit for this issue. When it comes to selecting features for linear regression, our novel Bilevel Optimized Recursive Feature Eliminator (BORFE) method represents a revolutionary development. Finding the optimal fit for a model and eliminating its most undesirable features is the objective of this innovative feature selection method. This study presents a novel cross-validation approach using a Bilevel Optimization–Based -Recursive Feature Extractor (BORFE) to perform an in-depth analysis of the hyper-parameters. When used with cross-validation, RFE finds the optimal number of features and the optimum selection of ranking features. According to the evaluation metrics, BORFE performs better than the other conventional algorithms when it comes to FS on cervical cancer datasets. For the cervical cancer dataset, this shows that BORFE can solve FS problems successfully.

Analysis of lower-body dimensions and their implementation in compression garment development

This experimental study aims to develop an approach to quantify dimensional changes in the lower body of female football players, with the intention of demonstrating how the results can be used to inform the development of lower body sports compression garments. A framework was established in order to analyse 3D body scans in functional postures using Rhinoceros 3D® and Grasshopper as a response to the limitations of current scanner software. The outcome provides an alternative methodology to locate landmarks on the body and extract dimensions in various sporting postures. Suggestions have been made as to how this information can aid pattern making, sizing, and grading of sports compression leggings, that can provide the wearer with optimal clothing fit, pressure delivery and comfort.

Eating Pathology and Interoceptive Sensibility Using the Brief Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness-2: Can There be Too Much of a Good Thing?

This study evaluated the factorial structure and invariance of the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness-v2 (MAIA-2). We also investigated incremental validity of the MAIA-2 factors for predicting eating pathology beyond appetite-based interoception. US-based online respondents (N = 1294; M age=48.7 ± 18.4; 63% cis women; 78% White) were sampled. We conducted hierarchical stepwise regressions, dominance analysis, and multiple-group confirmatory factor analyses across age, gender, and eating disorder symptoms. An 8-factor, 24-item Brief MAIA-2 (BMAIA-2) model showed optimal fit. Using strict criteria ( Δ CFI > 0.002), configural, metric, and scalar invariance were supported. After controlling for appetite-based interoception, higher scores on body listening, noticing, and emotional awareness unexpectedly predicted worse eating pathology, while higher scores on not worrying, not distracting, and trusting predicted less eating pathology, as hypothesized. Dominance analysis showed no subscales contributed >2% unique variance to global disordered eating beyond appetite-based interoception. For loss of control eating, however, not worrying was the dominant BMAIA-2 predictor, explaining 5% unique variance beyond appetite-based interoception. Research supported the relevance of multiple interoceptive sensibility dimensions captured by the BMAIA-2 to understanding eating-based pathology. Future studies should consider assessing its incremental validity using behavioral tasks and autonomic biomarkers of interoception to better understand the complex interplay among interoceptive skills and eating behavior.

Prosthetic management in mayer-rokitansky-küster-hauser (MRKH) Syndrome: A case report highlighting vaginal reconstruction and its impact on quality of life

Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, a congenital condition affecting 1 in 4,500 female births, is marked by the absence or underdevelopment of the uterus and upper vagina. Vaginal reconstruction is vital for sexual function, with prosthetic stents playing a key role in maintaining neovaginal patency.Femal patient with MRKH syndrome were treated using custom-made hollow vaginal stents following the Abbe-McIndoe technique. Stents were fabricated from heat-cure acrylic resin based on MRI measurements, ensuring optimal fit and function. Follow-up confirmed maintained vaginal patency. This case report highlights the critical role of prosthodontists in managing MRKH syndrome. Custom prosthetic stent provided excellent outcomes, though challenges with retention and patient compliance was noted, underscoring the need for continued innovation. Personalized prosthetic vaginal stents are effective in managing MRKH syndrome, improving patient quality of life. These findings support their use as a standard treatment option.

The Effect of Concurrent Resistance Training on Tethered Force, Lower Limbs Strength, Anaerobic Critical Velocity, and Swimming Performance: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Combining pool-based and resistance workouts, both in the pool and on dry land, is a valuable approach to enhancing swimming performance. However, few investigations have been conducted on this topic. Through a randomized controlled trial study, we investigated the effects of a 10-week concurrent resistance training program, which integrated resistance workouts both in the pool and on dry land on tethered force, lower limbs strength, anaerobic critical velocity, and swimming performance, in regional age-group breaststroke swimmers. Methods: Regional age-group swimmers (N = 24, males) were randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group (EG: 15.1 ± 0.5 years old) performed combined pool-based + resistance workouts, both in the pool and on dry land. The control group (CG: 15.1 ± 0.7 years old) performed their usual training regime, i.e., pool-based + resistance workouts on dry land only. The tethered swimming force, muscular strength, anaerobic critical velocity, and swimming performance and technique of the swimmers were evaluated before the training program began and after 10 weeks. Results: Improvements were observed in the EG vs. the CG in terms of the mean force (30.04%, p = 0.02; d = 0.75), one-repetition maximum back squat (20.57%, p = 0.01; d = 2.05), maximal force (19.23%, p = 0.03; d = 0.69), and anaerobic critical velocity (4.2%, p = 0.04; d = 0.61). The 50 and 200 m breaststroke performance times improved (4.3 and 5.4%, p = 0.01, d = 0.88–0.92, respectively) after 10 weeks. Conclusions: With the increasing demands of contemporary swimming competitions, which often include heats, semifinals, and finals, achieving optimal physical fitness to compete at an elite level, in every round, is vital for swimmers. The combination of resistance training workouts both in the pool and on dry land seems to enhance swimming performance in age-group swimmers, particularly in sprint to middle-distance breaststroke swimmers.

Pulsatile Vascular Afterload Measurement Improves Prediction of Right-Sided Heart Dysfunction in Undifferentiated and Left-Sided Pulmonary Hypertension.

The association between raised pulmonary artery pressures, pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), and right-sided heart dysfunction is well recognized. The added value of pulsatile indices, specifically pulmonary arterial compliance (PAC) and characteristic impedance, remains unclear. This study aimed to identify the optimal vascular afterload model for predicting right-sided heart dysfunction in newly diagnosed pulmonary hypertension (PH). This was a prospective cohort study of 86 patients with suspected PH (60±16 years; 66 women) who underwent right-sided heart catheterization and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Right ventricular end-diastolic volume index (RVEDVi) and right atrial (RA) volume index were measured using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Vascular resistance, PAC, and characteristic impedance were measured using pulmonary artery pressure from right-sided heart catheterization and pulmonary artery flow from cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Optimal model fit was determined by the lowest Akaike Information Criterion value. A total of 58% of patients had a right ventricular ejection fraction <50%, 63% had an increased RVEDVi, and 56% had an increased RA volume index. Overall, PVR was the best predictor of right ventricular ejection fraction <50% (P<0.01), increased RVEDVi (P<0.01), and RA volume index (P=0.02). However, for patients with a PVR <240 dynes.s.cm-5, PACclinical outperformed PVR in predicting right ventricular ejection fraction <50% (P=0.02) and increased RVEDVi (P=0.05). A 3-component model (PVR, PACclinical, and characteristic impedance) best predicted RA dilatation (P=0.05). In paired analysis, alternative methods of PAC quantification better predicted increased RVEDVi (PACdecay P=0.02) and RA volume index (PACarea P=0.02). PACclinical <2.3 mL/mm Hg optimally predicted right-sided heart dysfunction (area under the curve, 0.768) and increased the AUC for PVR in undifferentiated/left-sided PH (0.89 versus 0.72). Pulsatile vascular afterload measurement improves right-sided heart dysfunction prediction in undifferentiated/left-sided PH. More accurate PAC measurement methods could further enhance prognostic accuracy, while a PVR ≥240 dynes.s.cm-5 remains a valuable threshold for precapillary PH.

Smartphone scanning is a reliable and accurate alternative to contemporary residual limb measurement techniques.

Monitoring the volume and shape of residual limbs post-amputation is necessary to achieve optimal socket fit and determine overall limb health, yet contemporary clinical measurement techniques show high variance between measures. Three-dimensional scanning presents an opportunity for improved accuracy and reliability of residual limb measurements, however, three-dimensional scanners remain prohibitively expensive. A cost-effective alternative is the use of software that can utilise the photographs of modern smartphone cameras to create geometrically accurate scans. Whilst several studies have investigated the potential of privately developed photogrammetry algorithms for capturing residual limbs with clinical accuracy, none to the authors knowledge have explored commercially available software to do the same. Three applications were tested, namely Polycam, Luma, and Meshroom, to determine if they could produce clinically acceptable results. Scans of ten residual limbs were created using both smartphone technology and a reference structured-light scanner (Artec EVA), against which the validity and reliability of the resulting limb models were assessed using the Bland-Altman method and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient, respectively. Polycam and Luma achieved both Pearson Coefficients and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients of 0.999, and Coefficients of Variation of 1.1% and 1.4%, respectively. Volume reliability coefficients were 58.3 ml and 70.0 ml respectively for Polycam and Luma, whereas Meshroom failed to meet any of the criteria for clinical suitability, with a repeatability coefficient of 790.3 ml. Both Polycam and Luma exhibit sufficient accuracy and reliability to be considered for clinical volume measurements.

Synergistic Impact of Active Case Detection and Early Hospitalization for Controlling the Spread of Yellow Fever Outbreak in Nigeria: An Epidemiological Modeling and Optimal Control Analysis

Capturing the factors influencing yellow fever (YF) outbreaks is essential for effective public health interventions, especially in regions like Nigeria, where the disease poses significant health risks. This study explores the synergistic effects of active case detection (ACD) and early hospitalization on controlling YF transmission dynamics. We develop a dynamic model that integrates vaccination, active case detection, and hospitalization to enhance our understanding of disease spread and inform prevention strategies. Our methodology encompasses mechanistic dynamic modeling, optimal control analysis, parameter estimation, model fitting, and sensitivity analyses to study YF transmission dynamics, ensuring the robustness of control measures. We employ advanced mathematical techniques, including next-generation matrix methods, to accurately compute the reproduction number and assess outbreak transmissibility. Rigorous qualitative analysis of the model reveals two equilibria: disease-free and endemic, demonstrating global asymptotic stability and its impact on overall YF transmission dynamics, significantly affecting control and prevention mechanisms. Furthermore, through sensitivity analysis, we identify crucial parameters of the model that require urgent attention for more effective YF control. Moreover, our results highlight the critical roles of ACD and early hospitalization in reducing YF transmission. These insights provide a foundation for informed decision making and resource allocation in epidemic control efforts, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of public health strategies aimed at mitigating the impact of YF outbreaks.

Investigating the efficiency of fixed bed column containing Fe3O4-ZIF8@eggshell membrane matrix in concurrent adsorption of arsenic and nitrate from water.

In the current work, the behavior of a fixed bed column (FBC) containing an innovative nanocomposite, Fe3O4-ZIF8@eggshell membrane matrix (F-ZIF8@EMM), was investigated in the concurrent elimination of arsenic and nitrate, as two potentially harmful elements (PHEs) in drinking water. Flow rate (6-10 mL/min), column height (10-20 cm), reaction time (30-180 min), pH (5-10), primary content of arsenic (25-100 µg/L), primary content of nitrate (100-200 mg/L), and nanocomposite dose (0.25-1 mg/L) were examined as different operational effects on the simultaneous uptake of arsenic and nitrate from actual water via the as-fabricated novel nanocomposite through various experiments. Characteristics of F-ZIF8@EMM were analyzed via X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analyses. The consequences illustrated that the optimal parameters were: flow rate (6 mL/min), primary content of arsenic (100 µg/L), primary content of nitrate (150 mg/L), bed height (20 cm), and pH (7). The simultaneous elimination efficiency of nitrate and arsenic was 90 % under optimal conditions. The FBC fed with water containing arsenic and high nitrate could operate for 440 min with a qm of 226 mg/g. After fitting, different models were identified, with the concurrent uptake of nitrate and arsenic was the optimum fit with the Thomas model (R2 = 0.9998). Analysis of the cost of the process displayed that it should be estimated to be approximately 0.005$ per liter of safe drinking water. This study demonstrates the stability and high efficiency of the newly structured adsorbent after 10 consecutive adsorption cycles. It also validates the significant capacity of the as-made composite F-ZIF8@EMM in the concurrent uptake of nitrate and arsenic. Consequently, the application of FBC technology has shown promise in enhancing this process.

Comparative Analysis of Marginal Fit and Fracture Resistance in CAD-CAM Lithium Disilicate and Pre-processed Composite Endocrowns: An In Vitro Study.

This study aimed to determine the optimal finish line and material criteria for optimal marginal fit and fracture resistance in endocrowns. The impact of two preparation designs on endocrowns made from computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate and pre-processed CAD/CAM composite was compared. In a randomized 3-arm trial involving 42 mandibular molars, two marginal configurations (with and without chamfer finish lines) were evaluated for each material group. Marginal fit was assessed pre- and post-cementation using scanning electron microscope, and fracture resistance was tested with a universal testing machine. Student t-test was used to compare within group differences and ANOVA with Tukey test was used to compare intergroup differences. The significance level was set at 0.05. Edelweiss CAD/CAM blocks demonstrated the least marginal gap pre- and post-cementation, and superior fracture resistance compared to lithium disilicate and HIPC composite resin. Finish lines significantly affected marginal adaptation in all groups. Fracture resistance differences between designs within the same group were not statistically significant. The CAD/CAM composite proved effective for endocrown restorations, with finish lines impacting marginal adaptation but not fracture resistance. Edelweiss CAD/CAM blocks showed superior performance in both aspects, suggesting their suitability for such restorations. The study highlights the clinical significance of using Edelweiss CAD/CAM blocks for endocrown restorations, demonstrating superior marginal fit and fracture resistance. Clinicians can enhance restoration longevity by selecting appropriate materials and preparation designs, particularly the use of finish lines, to optimize marginal adaptation without compromising fracture resistance. How to cite this article: Singh MV, Sarfaraz H, Lampl S, et al. Comparative Analysis of Marginal Fit and Fracture Resistance in CAD-CAM Lithium Disilicate and Pre-processed Composite Endocrowns: An In Vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(8):732-739.

Theoretical models from experiments on particle population in convective arrays

Studying suspensions of gold nanorods has provided valuable knowledge on variations in concentration and how nanoparticles behave. Analysis of UV–visible spectra has shown changes in both longitudinal and transverse peaks, indicating a reduction in nanoparticle absorption peaks as the nanoparticle concentration decreases in suspension. Furthermore, changes in droplet contact angles have elucidated a direct correlation between nanoparticle density and droplet dynamics, shedding light on the intricate interplay between concentration reduction and droplet behavior. Investigations into cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB-coated) gold nanorods have unraveled the complexities of depletion, electrostatic, and Van der Waals forces, offering valuable knowledge on the self-assembly mechanisms governing these nanomaterials. The examination of interactions within coffee stain rings has underscored the crucial role of nanoparticle density in nanostructure arrangements, influencing deposition patterns and contributing to a deeper understanding of volume fraction evolution in nanostructured systems. By establishing a quantitative framework for interpreting energy parameters and observing optimal fitting agreements with experimental data, this research provides a solid foundation for future endeavors aimed at elucidating nanomaterial behavior in suspended systems. This comprehensive overview lays the groundwork for tailored manipulation of gold nanorod properties, emphasizing the essential relationship between density and contact angle in shaping wetting phenomena and surface engineering practices.

Evaluating the evening carbohydrate dilemma: the effect of within-the-day carbohydrate periodization on body composition and physical fitness.

To assess the effects of carbohydrate timing and type on body composition and physical fitness. Forty-two healthy, trained male volunteers underwent a four-week intervention, randomly divided into three groups: (i) Sleep Low-No Carbohydrates (SL-NCHO): consuming all carbohydrate intake at regular intervals prior to evening training, (ii) Sleep High-Low Glycemic Index (SH-LGI), and (iii) Sleep High-High Glycemic Index (SH-HGI). In both SH-LGI and SH-HGI, carbohydrates were distributed throughout the day, both pre-(60% of total intake) and post-evening training (40% of total intake). The SH-LGI and SH-HGI groups diverged in evening carbohydrate quality, featuring LGI and HGI foods, respectively. All participants performed a standardized exercise program combining resistance exercise and high-intensity interval training. Body composition was assessed using skinfold measurements and bioelectrical impendence analysis. Physical fitness was assessed by measuring VO2max, Visual Reaction Time (VRT), Countermovement Jump (CMJ), and 1-repetition maximum (1RM) in hack squat, chest press, shoulder press, and lat-pulldown exercises. There was a significant time-effect on both body composition and physical fitness indices. Bodyfat percentage decreased by an average of 1.5% (p < 0.001), fat-mass by 1.4kg (p < 0.001) and fat-free mass increased by 0.9kg (p = 0.006). A time-effect was also observed in VO2max, CMJ, 1RM testing, and VRT (all p < 0.05). There were no significant differences among interventions. A balanced dietary plan with sufficient nutrient and energy intake promotes body composition optimization and physical fitness, independently of carbohydrate type or timing. This study points towards implementing flexible nutrition interventions, emphasizing the potential of tailored dietary strategies to optimize health and physical fitness. The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT05464342.

Position Statement and Recommendations for Custom-Made Sport Mouthguards.

Sports-related traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are a significant global concern, particularly in contact sports, where the risk of orofacial injuries is high. Custom-made sports mouthguards (CSMs) are recognized as the most effective means of preventing these injuries, providing both protection and comfort without impairing athletic performance. Despite their proven benefits, there is no globally standardized approach to mouthguard design, fabrication, or usage, primarily due to varying regulations, awareness levels, and cultural attitudes toward sports safety across different countries. This document from the European Association for Sports Dentistry (EA4SD) outlines the latest guidelines for selecting, constructing, clinical use, and maintaining CSMs. It emphasizes the need for mouthguards fabricated from FDA-approved materials, designed to absorb and distribute impact forces effectively, and customized to ensure optimal fit and comfort. The EA4SD also highlights the importance of education for dental professionals and athletes on the benefits of CSMs, advocating for their mandatory use in high-risk sports to reduce the prevalence of TDIs and related complications.

Vehicle Attitude Control of Magnetorheological Semi-Active Suspension Based on Multi-Objective Intelligent Optimization Algorithm

A multi-objective intelligent optimization algorithm-based attitude control strategy for magnetorheological semi-active suspension is proposed to address the vehicle attitude imbalance generated during steering and braking. Firstly, the mechanical properties of the magnetorheological damper (MRD) are tested, and the parameters in the hyperbolic tangent model of the magnetorheological damper are identified through experiments. Secondly, a simulation model of the whole vehicle multi-degree-of-freedom vehicle dynamics including magnetorheological damper is established, and the whole-vehicle Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) controller is designed. Then, the optimization design model of the joint vehicle controller and vehicle dynamics is established to design the optimization fitness function oriented to the body attitude control performance, and the attitude optimal controller is calculated with the help of multi-objective intelligent optimization algorithm. Simulation results show that the proposed control method is able to improve the body roll angle, body pitch angle, and suspension dynamic deflection well on the basis of ensuring no deterioration in other performance indexes, ensuring good attitude control capability of the vehicle and verifying the feasibility of the control strategy.

A Statistical Evaluation of the Occurence of Meningitis in Takum, Taraba State, Nigeria

Meningitis remains a critical public health issue in Nigeria, particularly within the dry season when environmental factors such as low humidity and dust elevate transmission risks. Using historical incidence data from 2012 to 2021, this study utilizes the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model estimate and predict the occurrence of meningitis occurrences. Findings frm the study revealed that the ARIMA(1,1,0) model emerged as the optimal fit, capturing the seasonal patterns and temporal trends in meningitis cases. This study recommends the integration of ARIMA-based forecasting into Nigeria’s public health strategies to strengthen early warning systems, optimize resource deployment, and enable more proactive responses during high-risk periods.

A digital duplicating obturator with 3D printing technology

Obturators are vital for restoring function and appearance in patients with maxillofacial defects, though traditional fabrication involves multiple clinical visits and extended production time. This technique report details a digital approach using computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and 3D printing to duplicate an obturator for a 74-year-old patient with maxillary bone necrosis. By using a chairside intraoral scanner, we obtained a digital model of the existing obturator, avoiding traditional impression-taking and reducing procedural discomfort. A 3D-printed obturator was fabricated, adjusted with a tissue conditioner, and refined to ensure optimal fit. Laboratory processes included using specialized materials and retention techniques. The digital workflow minimized patient visits and improved comfort, underscoring CAD/CAM and 3D printing's potential to enhance clinical efficiency and quality of life for patients requiring complex prosthetic rehabilitation. This approach highlights the practical benefits of integrating digital and analog methods in maxillofacial prosthetics. (Int J Maxillofac Prosthetics 2024;7:16-19)

The Effects of Vitamin D Deficiency on Physical Fitness and Sport Performance – A Review

Introduction: Deficiency or insufficiency of vitamin D affects all individuals, of both sexes and all ages, and consequently brings a series of negative health consequences for them. This deficiency seems to be a very widespread problem in the population in general and also among physically active individuals and particulary in athletes. Currently, the insufficiency of vitamin D is a problem appearing worldwide. While in the population the main source of deficiencies are insufficient exposure to the sun and deficiency in the food diet, in individuals who participate in physical activity and sports it seems that the main factors are high use and depletion of reserves from muscle and adipose tissue. Vitamin D deficiency has an important role not only in bone and muscle health, but also negatively affects physical fitness and sports performance. Therefore, continuing measurement and monitoring of free vitamin D and/or its bioavailable 25(OH)D metabolites is the best way to determine the true vitamin D status for preventive reasons or supplementation in all individuals. Objectives: This review aims to highlight the current situation of the status of vitamin D, especially in subjects participate in physical activity and sports, and its importance and role in the health of athletes and in sports performance. Methods: For this review, we used the database in Scopus and PubMed, searching with key words: vitamin D deficiency - vitamin D status - elite athletes - sports performance. Full articles in English, published from 2016 to 2024, that evidenced the association between vitamin D status and health outcomes and sports performance were included. Results and Conclusions: The results of the study showed that the deficiency of vitamin D in the general population, but also in those who are actively involved in sports and even elite sports, is present at worrying levels. In different groups and populations, the deficiency factors are partly different, but the results show that the lack of food in the diet today constitutes one of the main factors that has almost taken the same weight as insufficient exposure to the sun. For physically active subjects and those involved in various types of sports, deficiencies are present at an unpredictably high rate, putting in serious danger in some cases the lives of the athletes. This comes from a low attention regarding the deficiencies of this vitamin, compared to other elements that are usually taken in the form of supplements in sports. The results show that maintaining an optimal level of vitamin D affects not only the bone and muscle health, the optimal physical fitness of physically active individuals, but also the health and improvement of sports performance (not only physical) of athletes. Therefore, the measurement, monitoring, ensuring a balanced food diet and supplementing with this vitamin, if needed, should accompany the entire course and activity of the subjects of this category in a strict and consistent manner.