Search Results (56,376)

Background/Objectives The main aim of the literature review was to determine whether different trigger point therapy techniques are effective in decreasing the intensity, frequency, and duration of tension-type headaches. An additional aim was to assess the impact of trigger point therapy on other physical and psychological variables in tension-type headaches. Methods This literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, and the inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed using the PICO(s) strategy. Searches were carried out in four databases: PubMed, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, and PEDro. Results Of the 9 included studies with 370 participants, 6 studies were randomised controlled trials, 2 were pilot studies, and 1 was a case report. Conclusions Trigger point therapy has reduced the duration, intensity, and frequency of headaches. Dry needling, ischaemic compression, Positional Relaxation Techniques, and massage protocols focused on deactivating trigger points are effective methods of unconventional treatment of tension-type headaches. Full article

Mycotoxin contamination of cereals and cereal-based products is a serious problem for food safety. Antioxidant-rich ingredients such as bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus L., VM) may mitigate their harmful effects. Firstly, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and analytical phytochemical composition (hydroxycinnamic and hydroxybenzoic acids, flavanols, flavonols, and anthocyanins) were assessed in lyophilized wild bilberries from Romania. Secondly, this study evaluated bilberries’ effects on reducing ochratoxin A (OTA) bioaccessibility and cytotoxicity. An in vitro digestion model was developed and applied to four different types of bread: Control, VM (2%), OTA (15.89 ± 0.13 mg/kg), and OTA (16.79 ± 0.55 mg/kg)-VM (2%). The results indicated that VM decreased OTA bioaccessibility by 15% at the intestinal level. OTA-VM digests showed improved Caco-2 cell viability in comparison to OTA digests across different exposure times. Regarding the alterations in Jurkat cell line cell cycle phases and apoptosis/necrosis, significant increases in cell death were observed using OTA digests (11%), while VM addition demonstrated a protective effect (1%). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis confirmed these findings, with OTA-VM digests showing significantly lower ROS levels compared to OTA digests, resulting in a 3.7-fold decrease. Thus, bilberries exhibit high potential as a functional ingredient, demonstrating protection in OTA mitigation effects. Full article

Platelets are small cell fragments that play a crucial role in hemostasis, requiring fast response times and fine signaling pathway regulation. For this regulation, platelets require a balance between two pathway types: the activatory and negative signaling pathways. Activatory signaling mediators are positive responses that enhance stimuli initiated by a receptor in the platelet membrane. Negative signaling regulates and controls the responses downstream of the same receptors to roll back or even avoid spontaneous thrombotic events. Several blood-related pathologies can be observed when these processes are unregulated, such as massive bleeding in activatory signaling inhibition or thrombotic events for negative signaling inhibition. The study of each protein and metabolite in isolation does not help to understand the role of the protein or how it can be contrasted; however, understanding the balance between active and negative signaling could help develop effective therapies to prevent thrombotic events and bleeding disorders. Full article

The widespread use of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) from packaging to engineering applications seems to follow the current global trend. The development of high-performance PLA-based blends has led to the commercial introduction of various PLA-based resins with excellent thermomechanical properties. The reason for this is the progress in the field of major PLA limitations such as low thermal resistance and poor impact strength. The main purpose of using biobased polymers in polymer blends is to increase the share of renewable raw materials in the final product rather than its possible biodegradation. However, in the case of engineering applications, the focus is on achieving the required properties rather than maximizing the percentage of biopolymer. The presented review article discusses the current strategies to optimize the balance of the key features such as stiffness, toughness, and heat resistance of PLA-based blends. Improving of these properties requires molecular structural changes, which together with morphology, crystallinity, and the influence of the processing conditions are the main subjects of this article. The latest research in this field clearly indicates the high potential of using PLA-based materials in highly demanding applications. In the case of impact strength modification, it is possible to obtain values close to 800 J/m, which is a value comparable to polycarbonate. Significant improvement can also be confirmed for thermal resistance results, where heat deflection temperatures for selected types of PLA blends can reach even 130 °C after modification. The modification strategies discussed in this article confirm that a properly conducted process of selecting the blend components and the conditions of the processing technique allows for revealing the potential of PLA as an engineering plastic. Full article

Anoctamin 6 (ANO6, TMEM16F) is a phospholipid (PL) scramblase that moves PLs between both plasma membrane (PM) leaflets and operates as an ion channel. It plays a role in development and is essential for hemostasis, bone mineralization and immune defense. However, ANO6 has also been shown to regulate cellular Ca²⁺ signaling and PM compartments, thereby controlling the expression of ion channels such as CFTR. Given these pleiotropic effects, we investigated the functional interdependence of the ubiquitous ANO6 with other commonly co-expressed anoctamins. As most expression studies on anoctamins use HEK293 human embryonic kidney cells, we compared ion currents, PL scrambling and Ca²⁺ signals induced by the overexpression of anoctamins in HEK293 wild-type parental and ANO6-knockout cells. The data suggest that the endogenous expression of ANO6 significantly affects the results obtained from overexpressed anoctamins, particularly after increasing intracellular Ca²⁺. Thus, a significant interdependence of anoctamins may influence the interpretation of data obtained from the functional analysis of overexpressed anoctamins. Full article

Introduction: The importance of diet in shaping the gut microbiota is well established and may help improve an individual’s overall health. Many other factors, such as genetics, age, exercise, antibiotic therapy, or tobacco use, also play a role in influencing gut microbiota. Aim: This narrative review summarizes how three distinct dietary types (plant-based, Mediterranean, and Western) affect the composition of gut microbiota and the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, focusing on the keywords “dietary pattern”, “gut microbiota” and “dysbiosis”. Results: Both plant-based and Mediterranean diets have been shown to promote the production of beneficial bacterial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), while simultaneously lowering concentrations of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), a molecule associated with negative health outcomes. Additionally, they have a positive impact on microbial diversity and therefore are generally considered healthy dietary types. On the other hand, the Western diet is a typical example of an unhealthy nutritional approach leading to an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria, where TMAO levels rise and SCFA production drops due to gut dysbiosis. Conclusion: The current scientific literature consistently highlights the superiority of plant-based and Mediterranean dietary types over the Western diet in promoting gut health and preventing NCDs. Understanding the influence of diet on gut microbiota modulation may pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies. Full article

Background/Aim: The stability of peri-implant tissues is crucial for the long-term success of dental implant treatments. A new cervical implant design has been developed to address the challenges associated with peri-implant tissue stability, featuring a concave cervical portion to increase tissue volume in this area. The present study aimed to clinically evaluate the effectiveness of the new cervical implant design in maintaining peri-implant tissue stability. Materials and Methods: Five clinical cases involving completely edentulous patients were selected, in which 25 implants were installed. The marginal bone level around each implant was assessed at three different time points—T0: immediately after the prosthesis installation, T1: 6 months post installation, and T2: at the last control visit, up to 38 months later. Measurements were taken to analyze changes in marginal bone levels (MBLs) and the keratinized mucosa (KM) over time. Furthermore, the keratinized mucosa (KM) around the implants was evaluated. Results: The mean and standard deviation values of the marginal bone levels at each time point were as follows—T0: 0.59 ± 0.55 mm; T1: 1.41 ± 0.59 mm; T2: 1.76 ± 0.69 mm. Statistical analysis showed significant differences across the time points (ANOVA p < 0.0001). The overall mean KM values were 3.85 mm for T1 and T2, showing the stability of the peri-implant soft tissues at ≥1-year controls. Conclusion: Within the limitations of the present study, the results showed that the Collo implants presented measured MBL values increasing within the time range analyzed in each case but within the normal values cited in the literature for these types of rehabilitation treatments. However, the measured KM values presented, in all cases, an average above the values referenced in the literature as a minimum for maintaining the health of the peri-implant tissues. Full article

Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in the growth and metastasis of tumors, including the development and progression of cutaneous lymphomas. The chick embryo CAM model has been utilized in various studies to assess the growth rate, angiogenic potential, and metastatic capability of different tumor types and malignant cell lines. However, the precise mechanisms of angiogenesis in CTCL and the influence of Ruxolitinib or Resminostat on angiogenesis in hematological malignancies and solid tumors are not well understood. Recent in vitro and in vivo data have demonstrated the synergistic inhibition of tumorigenesis and metastasis in experimental models of CTCL when using the combination of Resminostat (HDACi) with Ruxolitinib (JAKi). The present work aims to elucidate the effects of this combination on the tumor microenvironment’s vascular components. We investigated the effects of Ruxolitinib (JAKi) in combination with Resminostat (HDACi) treatment in transendothelial migration of CTCL cells (10⁶ MyLa and SeAx) by using a transwell-based transendothelial migration assay and tumor angiogenesis in vivo. We used the CTCL chick embryo CAM model with xenografted tumors derived from implanted MyLa and SeAx cells and administered topically 15 μM ruxolitinib and 5 μM Resminostat every two days during a 5-day period. JAKi and HDACi inhibited CTCL cell transendothelial migration by 75% and 82% (p < 0.05) in both CTCL engrafted cells (MyLa and SeAx, respectively) compared to the untreated group. Moreover, the combination of ruxolitinib with resminostat blocked angiogenesis by significantly reducing the number of blood vessel formation by 49% and 34% in both MyLa and SeAx, respectively (p < 0.05), indicating that the proposed combination exerted significant anti-angiogenic effects in the CAM CTCL model. Overall, these data provide valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies targeting angiogenesis in CTCL, paving the way for more effective treatment approaches in the future. Full article

Usher syndrome (USH) is an inherited disorder characterized by sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), retinitis pigmentosa (RP)-related vision loss, and vestibular dysfunction. USH presents itself as three distinct clinical types, 1, 2, and 3, with no biomarker for early detection. This study aimed to explore whether microRNA (miRNA) expression in USH cell lines is dysregulated compared to the miRNA expression pattern in a cell line derived from a healthy human subject. Lymphocytes from USH patients and healthy individuals were isolated and transformed into stable cell lines using Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). DNA from these cell lines was sequenced using a targeted panel to identify gene variants associated with USH types 1, 2, and 3. Microarray analysis was performed on RNA from both USH and control cell lines using NanoString miRNA microarray technology. Dysregulated miRNAs identified by the microarray were validated using droplet digital PCR technology. DNA sequencing revealed that two USH patients had USH type 1 with gene variants in USH1B (MYO7A) and USH1D (CDH23), while the other two patients were classified as USH type 2 (USH2A) and USH type 3 (CLRN-1), respectively. The NanoString miRNA microarray detected 92 differentially expressed miRNAs in USH cell lines compared to controls. Significantly altered miRNAs exhibited at least a twofold increase or decrease with a p value below 0.05. Among these miRNAs, 20 were specific to USH1, 14 to USH2, and 5 to USH3. Three miRNAs that are known as miRNA-183 family which are crucial for inner ear and retina development, have been significantly downregulated as compared to control cells. Subsequently, droplet digital PCR assays confirmed the dysregulation of the 12 most prominent miRNAs in USH cell lines. This study identifies several miRNA signatures in USH cell lines which may have potential utility in Usher syndrome identification. Full article

Urban parks enhance residents’ quality of life and health by fostering a harmonious relationship between people and nature, so effective park design needs to prioritize ecological protection, sustainable landscapes, and practical spatial structures to achieve these benefits. This study takes the typical case of urban park renovation and reconstruction—Kowloon Walled City Park—as an example to conduct research and divides the interior of the park into four types of areas: contemporary built-up area; historical relic area; natural–folk custom area; and ecological conservation area. Based on 405 valid questionnaire data for respondents, this study conducts empirical research using a combination of the Semantic Differential (SD) method, Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) model, and unordered multivariate logit choice model, comprehensively describes and analyzes individual spatial perception and preferences, and further discusses the potential factors affecting individual perception preferences. The results show that there are differences in many characteristics between different areas in Kowloon Walled City Park. At the same time, people generally prefer park areas that integrate modern and traditional elements, natural and cultural environments, and pay attention to the balance between naturalness and sociality in park design. These results provide useful information for planners, developers, and others, as well as data for designing urban park construction with higher practical value and natural benefits. Full article

During a ship’s voyage, it is difficult to maintain its hull, and prolonged exposure to seawater can lead to the attachment of marine organisms, which can negatively impact the ship’s speed. The original self-polishing copolymer was a tributyltin-containing paint used for applying two layers of protective coating onto a ship’s bottom plate. According to International Maritime Organization (abbreviated as IMO) regulations, users are no longer allowed to use paints containing tributyltin. Therefore, manufacturers have developed a tributyltin-free paint, known as tin-free nanotechnology paint, which can be used as a replacement for the base coat on ship bottom plates. This study involves the use of a self-polishing copolymer spray and tin-free nanotechnology paint. A model coated with these two types of paint will be observed underwater to study the growth of marine organisms. Additionally, fuel consumption will be analyzed through underwater inspections and sea trials. Based on the experimental data, it is known that tin-free nanotechnology paint can significantly reduce the need for repairs in factories and greatly decrease maintenance costs when compared to self-polishing copolymers. Full article

To enhance pomegranate production on marginal gravelly lands, standardized planting techniques were evaluated in an 8-year-old orchard. Trenching, wider pit excavation, pit digging, and auger digs with dimensions of 1 and 2 m were employed. Utilizing native soil from barren land, with or without spent wash, and mixing it with black soil up to 1 m deep, growth parameters, leaf nutrients, fruit production, and fruit quality were assessed. The trench and wider pit methods outperformed others, yielding greater above-ground biomass (>70.3 kg tree⁻¹), root biomass (>24.5 kg, tree⁻¹), and cross-sectional area (>3.30 m² tree⁻¹). These methods also produced longer roots (>4.0 m tree⁻¹) and higher leaf phosphorus (>0.28%) and potassium (>1.81%) levels, fruit juice content (>48.50%), and total soluble solids (>16.05°) compared to other planting methods. This resulted in higher and more sustainable fruit yield production under the trench and wider pit planting methods (>7.21 t ha⁻¹). Similarly, the native and black soil mixture produced healthy fruit trees, improved fruit quality, and sustainably higher fruit yield over the native soil alone. In summary, the trench and wider pit methods (2–3 m³), combined with a soil mixture, are recommended for sustainable, high-quality fruit production in shallow gravelly terrains, thereby improving food security and the livelihoods of farmers in arid regions. Full article

Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, and they exploit the cellular pathways and resources of their respective host cells to survive and successfully multiply. The strategies of viruses concerning how to take advantage of the metabolic capabilities of host cells for their own replication can vary considerably. The most common metabolic alterations triggered by viruses affect the central carbon metabolism of infected host cells, in particular glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. The upregulation of these processes is aimed to increase the supply of nucleotides, amino acids, and lipids since these metabolic products are crucial for efficient viral proliferation. In detail, however, this manipulation may affect multiple sites and regulatory mechanisms of host-cell metabolism, depending not only on the specific viruses but also on the type of infected host cells. In this review, we report metabolic situations and reprogramming in different human host cells, tissues, and organs that are favorable for acute and persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection. This knowledge may be fundamental for the development of host-directed therapies. Full article

Food waste and by-products are intricately linked to sustainable food production, as reducing waste can play a significant role in achieving a more sustainable and efficient food system. Sustainable utilization and recovery of by-products can significantly contribute by creating strategies that can lead to cost savings and increased efficiency across the food supply chain. Worldwide, more than 40% of whey from cheese production is discarded, resulting in the loss of valuable nutrients and potentially polluting the environment. Effective use of whey reduces environmental impact and enhances manufacturing sustainability. Thus, a circular approach to food waste management in the dairy industry supports sustainability goals and creates opportunities for innovation. Whey contains most of the soluble components of milk, including a large number of serum proteins and all the essential amino acids, making it suitable for producing beverages with high nutritional value. This study aims to produce whey-based beverages with different additions to obtain dairy products with high nutritional value. Three different ingredients, sea buckthorn, ginger, and cinnamon, were chosen for their numerous health benefits to the consumer. Six samples were prepared utilizing both unmodified and deproteinized whey in a 75% proportion, with the addition of 25% sea buckthorn juice, 0.75% ginger juice, and 0.2% cinnamon powder. The resultant samples were packaged in 200 mL bottles and maintained at a controlled temperature of 6 °C to ensure optimal preservation. Given the paramount importance of consumer acceptability in novel beverage development, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted to assess the sensory properties of the formulated beverages. In addition, physico-chemical properties and their evolution over 14 days of storage were examined. The sample containing whey, sea buckthorn juice, ginger juice, and cinnamon powder received the highest marks from the tasters. The values of the physico-chemical parameters varied depending on the type of whey used and the storage period. Thus, a pH of approximately 5 and an acidity between 30 and 80 °T were recorded. The average lactose content was 4%, the average protein content was 2.5%, and the total soluble solids content was 11.5 °Brix. The beverages developed in this study represent viable alternatives for diversifying food production through sustainable, environmentally friendly technological variants. By applying circular economy principles, these products contribute to reducing food waste in the dairy industry. Full article

Plants from the Brassicales order are known for the presence of a glucosinolate–myrosinase link, which is an important protection strategy against multiple stressors. The main goal of this study was to investigate the presence of the myrosinase enzyme and reveal the myrosin cell ultrastructure in the vegetative organs of nasturtium. The presence, localisation and expression of the enzyme myrosinase type 1 (TGG1) at different developmental stages of Tropaeolum majus L. (nasturtium) were investigated using immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques. The expression of myrosinase was detected in the vegetative organs of T. majus. During plant development, within four consecutive weeks, a decrease in myrosinase expression was noticed in all studied plant organs. The location of greater myrosinase accumulation and activity is shown to be the root, contrary to the nasturtium stem and leaf, where we found the lowest myrosinase expression. Transmission electron microscopy was used to reveal the ultrastructural features of the myrosin cells of nasturtium. Myrosin cells are usually scattered between parenchyma cells and S-cells. Mostly, they are rectangular or slightly elongated in shape and can be recognised by an electron-dense large central vacuole and an expanded rough endoplasmic reticulum. The results of this study provide new data on myrosin cell morphology and the expression pattern of myrosinase in T. majus. Full article