Search Results (9,938)

Autologous therapies are currently being studied to determine if they can modulate the course of knee osteoarthritis symptoms and/or disease progression. One potential therapeutic target is the polarization of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages to pro-healing M2 macrophages. The autologous therapy, Autologous Protein Solution (APS), was incubated with donor-matched human peripheral-derived macrophages for 10 days. M1 pro-inflammatory macrophages were determined by the percentage of CD80+ and M2 pro-healing macrophages were determined by CD68+ and CD163+ by epifluorescent microscopy. To determine clinical effectiveness, an APS-specific minimal clinically important improvement (MCII) using an anchor-based method was calculated in a randomized controlled trial of APS (n = 46) and then applied to a real-world registry study (n = 78) to determine the percentage of pain responders. Compared to control media, APS statistically increased the percentage of M2 macrophages and decreased the percentage of M1 macrophages, while platelet-poor plasma had no effect on polarization. In the randomized controlled trial (RCT), the MCII at the 12-month follow-up visit was calculated as 2.0 points on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain scale and 7.5 points on the WOMAC function scale. Applying this MCII to the real-world registry data, 62.5% of patients met the MCII with an average of 4.7 ± 2.5 points of improvement in pain. Autologous therapies can influence macrophage polarization and have demonstrated clinical effectiveness in a real-world patient setting. Full article

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) results in prolonged muscle weakness, impaired neuromuscular control, and delayed return to sport. Cross-education (CE), unilateral training of the uninjured limb, has been proposed as an adjunct therapy to promote bilateral adaptations. This scoping review evaluated the functional and neuroplastic effects of CE rehabilitation post-ACLR. Following PRISMA-ScR and JBI guidelines, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PEDro were searched up to February 2025. A bibliometric analysis was also conducted to report keyword co-occurrence and identify trends in this line of research. Of 333 screened references, 14 studies (price index: 43% and low-to-moderate risk of bias) involving 721 participants (aged 17–45 years) met inclusion criteria. CE protocols (6–12 weeks; 2–5 sessions/week) incorporating isometric, concentric, and eccentric exercises demonstrated strength gains (10–31%) and strength preservation, alongside improved limb symmetry (5–14%) and dynamic balance (7–18%). There is growing interest in neuroplasticity and corticospinal excitability, although neuroplastic changes were assessed heterogeneously across studies. Findings support CE as a feasible and low-cost strategy to complement early-stage ACLR rehabilitation, especially when direct loading of the affected limb is limited. Standardized protocols for clinical intervention and neurophysiological assessment are needed. Full article

Physical performance data is essential for planning youth training effectively; however, there is a lack of scientific information regarding performance in youth competitions. To address this gap, an innovative study was conducted with Portuguese U14 regional selections. Each player was equipped with a WimuPro™ inertial device. Six variables were considered: accelerations, decelerations, speed, player load, impacts, and high impacts. The objective of this study, based on data from official competitions, was to statistically analyze the distribution and intensity thresholds of six physical performance variables across five defined zones. A cluster k-means analysis was performed for a significance value of p < 0.05. Five zones were identified for all variables: acceleration [<0.37; 0.37 to 0.81; 0.81 to 1.54; 1.54 to 3.49; >3.49 m/s²], deceleration [<−0.26; −0.27 to −0.63; −0.63 to −1.22; −1.22 to −2.545; >−2.54 m/s²], speed [<5.42; 5.42 to 10.19; 10.20 to 14.63; 14.64 to 18.59; >18.59 km/h²], player load [<1.07; 1.07 to 1.36; 1.37 to 1.63; 1.64 to 1.95; >1.95 u.a./min], impacts [<133.45; 133.45 to 158.75; 158.76 to 181.45; 181.46 to 206.59; >206.59 cont/min], and high impacts [<1.13; 1.14 to 2.11; 2.12 to 3.13; 3.14 to 4.42; >4.42 cont/min]. These intensity zones should be taken into account to optimize training and enhance the understanding of competition in U14 basketball. Full article

This study investigates the thermal stability and microstructural evolution of the solid electrolyte medium used in DLyte^® dry electropolishing and dry anodizing processes. Samples were thermally aged between 30 °C and 45 °C to simulate Joule heating during industrial operation. Visual and SEM analyses revealed shape deformation and microcrack formation at temperatures above 40 °C, potentially reducing particle packing efficiency and electrolyte performance. Particle size distribution shifted from bimodal to trimodal upon aging, with an overall size reduction of up to 39.5% due to dehydration effects, impacting ionic transport properties. Weight-loss measurements indicated a diffusion-limited dehydration mechanism, stabilizing at 15–16% mass loss. Fourier transform infrared analysis confirmed water removal while maintaining the essential sulfonic acid groups responsible for ionic conductivity. In dry anodizing tests on titanium, aged electrolytes enhanced process efficiency, producing TiO₂ films with improved optical properties—color and brightness—while preserving thickness and uniformity (~70 nm). The results highlight the need to carefully control thermal exposure to maintain electrolyte integrity and ensure consistent process performance. Full article

Leptospirosis is a globally significant zoonosis affecting animal health, productivity, and the environment. While typically associated with tropical climates, its persistence in semi-arid regions such as La Laguna, Mexico—characterized by low humidity, high temperatures, and limited water sources—remains poorly understood. Although these adverse environmental conditions theoretically limit the survival of Leptospira, high livestock density and synanthropic reservoirs (e.g., rodents) may compensate, facilitating transmission. In this cross-sectional study, blood sera from 445 dairy cows (28 herds: 12 intensive [MI], 16 semi-intensive [MSI] systems) were analyzed via microscopic agglutination testing (MAT) against 10 pathogenic serovars. Urine samples were cultured for active Leptospira detection. Risk factors were assessed through epidemiological surveys and multivariable analysis. This study revealed an overall apparent seroprevalence of 27.0% (95% CI: 22.8–31.1), with significantly higher rates in MSI (54.1%) versus MI (12.2%) herds (p < 0.001) and an estimated true seroprevalence of 56.3% (95% CI: 50.2–62.1) in MSI and 13.1% (95% CI: 8.5–18.7) in MI herds (p < 0.001). The Sejroe serogroup was isolated from urine in both systems, confirming active circulation. In MI herds, rodent presence (OR: 3.6; 95% CI: 1.6–7.9) was identified as a risk factor for Leptospira seropositivity, while first-trimester abortions (OR:10.1; 95% CI: 4.2–24.2) were significantly associated with infection. In MSI herds, risk factors associated with Leptospira seropositivity included co-occurrence with hens (OR: 2.8; 95% CI: 1.5–5.3) and natural breeding (OR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.1–3.9), whereas mastitis/agalactiae (OR: 2.8; 95% CI: 1.5–5.2) represented a clinical outcome associated with seropositivity. Despite semi-arid conditions, Leptospira maintains transmission in La Laguna, particularly in semi-intensive systems. The coexistence of adapted (Sejroe) and incidental serogroups underscores the need for targeted interventions, such as rodent control in MI systems and poultry management in MSI systems, to mitigate both zoonotic and economic impacts. Full article

Background: Obesity and its complications have increased in both adults and children, with pediatric populations developing metabolic disorders at earlier ages. Long non-coding RNAs, particularly MEG3, are involved in obesity through regulation of lipogenic genes including ATF4, FTO, SREBP1, FASN, and ACACA. However, data on MEG3 expression in pediatric obesity are limited. This study evaluated MEG3, FTO, and ATF4 expression in PBMCs from children with obesity and their associations with added sugar intake and lipid metabolism genes. Methods: In this cross-sectional study 71 children within the age range of 6 to 12 years were included (28 normal weight and 43 with obesity). Anthropometrical and clinical parameters and dietary added sugar consumption were analyzed. Real-time PCR was performed to assess MEG3, FTO, ATF4, SREBP1, FASN, and ACACA gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results: The expression of MEG3, ATF4, FTO, SREBP1, FASN, and ACACA was decreased in children with obesity. MEG3 and FTO showed sex-dependent expression in children without obesity, while additional sex-related differences were observed for SREBP1, FASN, ACACA, FTO, and MEG3 in children with obesity. MEG3 was associated with the expression of SREBP1, FASN, ACACA, FTO, and ATF4. In insulin-resistant (IR) children, MEG3, ATF4, FTO, ACACA, and SREBP1 were reduced, while FASN was increased. Added sugar intake negatively correlated with FTO, SREBP1, and ACACA. Conclusions: The MEG3, FTO, and ATF4 expression was altered in children with obesity, showing sex- and IR-related differences. Added sugar intake correlated negatively with lipogenic gene expression. Full article

Background/Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by small intestinal enteropathy triggered by gluten ingestion, often associated with gut dysbiosis. The most effective treatment is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD), which alleviates symptoms. This study uniquely integrates taxonomic, functional, and resistance profiling to evaluate the gut microbiota of women with CD on a GFD. Methods: To evaluate the long-term impact of a GFD, this study analyzed the gut microbiota of 10 women with CD on a GFD for over a year compared to 10 healthy controls with unrestricted diets. Taxonomic diversity (16S rRNA gene sequencing and the analysis of α and β-diversity), metabolic functionality (Biolog EcoPlates^®), and antibiotic resistance profiles (Cenoantibiogram) were assessed. Results: Metagenomic analysis revealed no significant differences in taxonomic diversity but highlighted variations in the abundance of specific bacterial genera. Women with CD showed increased proportions of Bacteroides, Streptococcus, and Clostridium, associated with inflammation, but also elevated levels of beneficial genera such as Roseburia, Oxalobacter, and Paraprevotella. Despite no significant differences in metabolic diversity, higher minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in women in the healthy control group suggest that dietary substrates in unrestricted diets may promote the proliferation of fast-growing bacteria capable of rapidly developing and disseminating antibiotic resistance mechanisms. Conclusions: These findings indicate that prolonged adherence to a GFD in CD supports remission of gut dysbiosis, enhances microbiota functionality, and may reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance, emphasizing the importance of dietary management in CD. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a frequent and limiting complication of oncological treatment, particularly in patients receiving oxaliplatin. Its onset can significantly affect the quality of life and compromise the continuity of the antineoplastic therapy. Due to the limited efficacy of available pharmacological therapies, percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) has been proposed as a non-invasive alternative for symptom management. Case presentation: We report the case of a 75-year-old woman with colorectal adenocarcinoma who developed CIPN following oxaliplatin administration. She underwent a 12-week course of PENS targeting the median nerve, with weekly sessions conducted without interruption of chemotherapy and without adverse effects. The patient showed progressive improvement in neurosensory symptoms, as measured by the EORTC QLQ-CIPN20 questionnaire. Quantitative sensory testing revealed normalization of thermal and vibratory sensitivity and improved mechanical detection thresholds. The cumulative oxaliplatin dose was maintained throughout treatment. Conclusions: PENS may offer an effective and safe therapeutic option for managing CIPN, enabling symptom control without compromising oncological treatment. This case supports the need for controlled clinical trials to confirm efficacy and establish standardized protocols. Full article

Understanding species composition and forest dynamics is essential for predicting biomass productivity and informing conservation in tropical montane ecosystems. We evaluated floristic, demographic, and biomass changes in eighteen 0.1 ha permanent plots in the Colombian Sub-Andean forest, including both primary (ca. 60 y old) and secondary forests (ca. 30 years old). Two censuses of individuals (DBH ≥ 2.5 cm) were conducted over 7–13 years. We recorded 516 species across 202 genera and 89 families. Floristic composition differed significantly between forest types (PERMANOVA, p = 0.001), and black oak (Trigonobalanus excelsa Lozano, Hern. Cam. & Henao) forests formed distinct assemblages. Demographic rates were higher in secondary forests, with mortality (4.17% yr), recruitment (4.51% yr), and relative growth rate (0.02% yr) exceeding those of primary forests. The mean aboveground biomass accumulation and the rate of annual change were higher in primary forests (447.5 Mg ha⁻¹ and 466.8 Mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, respectively) than in secondary forests (217.2 Mg ha⁻¹ and 217.2 Mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, respectively). Notably, black oak forests showed the greatest biomass accumulation and rate of change in biomass. Annual net biomass production was higher in secondary forests (8.72 Mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹) than in primary forests (5.66 Mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹). These findings highlight the ecological distinctiveness and recovery potential of secondary Sub-Andean forests and underscore the value of multitemporal monitoring to understand forest resilience and assess vulnerability to environmental change. Full article

Background: The typification of the name Aegilops tauschii Coss. (Poaceae: Triticeae) is revisited. Several authors cited a gathering from Iberia as the locality and Buxbaum as the collector of as the type, but no actual specimens from this collection have been located, nor is there evidence that such a gathering existed. In 1994, van Slageren designated as lectotype an illustration from Buxbaum’s Plantarum minus cognitarum centuria I (1728), which, although original material, is not the only element cited in the protologue. The protologue mentions several gatherings, some of which are represented by identifiable herbarium specimens qualifying as syntypes. Methods: This work is based on the analysis of the protologue of Aegilops tauschii and the study of specimens conserved in several herbaria. According to the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN, Shenzhen Code 2018), an illustration does not hold the same nomenclatural weight as preserved specimens cited in the protologue. Therefore, van Slageren’s lectotypification does not comply with Art. 9.12 of the ICN and must be superseded. Results: The original material includes multiple elements, and a new lectotype is designated from a specimen at PRC from Azerbaijan. Full article

In recent years, phylogenomic approaches have significantly deepened our understanding of moss diversity. These techniques have uncovered numerous previously overlooked species and provided greater clarity in resolving complex taxonomic relationships. In this context, the genus Rehubryum is particularly outstanding, because of its close morphological similarity to both Ulota and Atlantichella. The challenges posed by its segregation are addressed in this study, which integrates morphological and molecular data to reassess the circumscription of Rehubryum and its phylogenetic placement within the subtribe Lewinskyinae. Our results support the recognition of a new species, R. kiwi, and show that its inclusion within the genus further complicates the morphological delimitation of Rehubryum from Ulota, as both genera are distinguishable by only two consistent gametophytic characteristics: a submarginal leaf band of elongated cells, and the presence of geminate denticulations in the margins of the basal half of the leaf. Moreover, R. kiwi challenges the current morphological circumscription of Rehubryum itself, as it overlaps in key characteristics with its sister genus Atlantichella, rendering their morphological separation untenable. The striking interhemispheric disjunction between Rehubryum and Atlantichella raises new questions about long-distance dispersal and historical biogeography in mosses, despite these complexities at the generic level. Nevertheless, species-level distinctions remain well defined, especially in sporophytic traits and geographic distribution. These findings highlight the pervasive cryptic diversity within Orthotrichaceae, underscoring the need for integrative taxonomic frameworks that synthesize morphology, molecular phylogenetics, and biogeography to resolve evolutionary histories. Full article

Objective: To determine reference values of liver stiffness during the first week of extrauterine life in healthy newborns, according to gestational age, sex, and birth weight, using three elastography techniques: point shear wave elastography (pSWE) and two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) with convex and linear probes. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted at a single center on a hospital-based cohort of 287 newborns between 24 and 42 weeks of gestation, admitted between January 2023 and May 2024. Cases with liver disease, significant neonatal morbidity, or technically invalid studies were excluded. Hepatic elastography was performed during the first week of life using pSWE and 2D-SWE with both convex and linear probes. Clinical and technical neonatal variables were recorded. Liver stiffness values were analyzed in relation to gestational age, birth weight, and sex. Linear regression models were applied to assess associations, considering p-values < 0.05 as statistically significant. Results: After applying exclusion criteria, valid liver stiffness measurements were obtained in 208 cases with pSWE, 224 with 2D-SWE (convex probe), and 222 with 2D-SWE (linear probe). A statistically significant inverse association between liver stiffness and gestational age (p < 0.03) was observed across all techniques except for 2D-SWE with the linear probe. Only 2D-SWE with the convex probe showed a significant association with birth weight. No significant differences were observed based on neonatal sex. The 2D-SWE technique with the convex probe demonstrated significantly shorter examination times compared to pSWE (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Neonatal liver stiffness measured by pSWE and 2D-SWE with a convex probe shows an inverse correlation with gestational age, potentially reflecting the structural and functional maturation of the liver. These techniques are safe, reliable, and provide useful information for distinguishing normal findings in preterm neonates from early hepatic pathology. The values obtained represent a valuable reference for clinical hepatic assessment in the neonatal period. Full article

Vermicomposting is a sustainable biotechnological process that transforms organic waste through the synergistic activity of earthworms, such as Eisenia fetida, and their associated microbiota. This study evaluated bacterial and physicochemical dynamics during the vermicomposting of bovine manure by analyzing the microbial composition of the substrate and the gut of E. fetida at three time points (weeks 0, 6, and 12). The V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was sequenced, and microbial diversity was characterized using QIIME2. Significant differences in alpha diversity (observed features, Shannon index, and phylogenetic diversity) and beta diversity indicated active microbial succession. Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, and Actinobacteriota were the dominant phyla, with abundances varying across habitats and over time. A significant enrichment of Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, and the genera Chryseolinea, Flavobacterium, and Sphingomonas was observed in the manure treatments. In contrast, Actinobacteriota, Firmicutes, and the genera Methylobacter, Brevibacillus, Enhygromyxa, and Bacillus, among others, were distinctive of the gut samples and contributed to their dissimilarity from the manure treatments. Simultaneously, the physicochemical parameters indicated progressive substrate stabilization and nutrient enrichment. Notably, the organic matter and total organic carbon contents decreased (from 79.47% to 47.80% and from 46.10% to 27.73%, respectively), whereas the total nitrogen content increased (from 1.70% to 2.23%); these effects reduced the C/N ratio, which is a recognized indicator of maturity, from 27.13 to 12.40. The macronutrient contents also increased, with final values of 1.41% for phosphorus, 1.50% for potassium, 0.89% for magnesium, and 2.81% for calcium. These results demonstrate that vermicomposting modifies microbial communities and enhances substrate quality, supporting its use as a biofertilizer for sustainable agriculture, soil restoration, and agrochemical reduction. Full article

Background: Breast cancer remains a major public health challenge in Latin America, where access to personalized risk assessment tools is still limited. This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of a polygenic risk score (PRS)-based stratification model combined with remote genomic counseling in Colombian women with sporadic breast cancer and healthy women. Methods: In 2023, an embedded mixed-methods observational study was conducted in Medellín involving 1997 women aged 40–75 years who underwent clinical PRS testing. The intervention integrated PRS-based risk categorization with individualized risk factor assessment and lifestyle recommendations delivered through a remote counseling platform. Results: PRS analysis classified 9.7% of women as high risk and 46% as low risk. Healthier lifestyle patterns were significantly associated with lower PRS categories (p = 0.034). Physical activity showed a protective effect (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.5–0.8), while prior smoking, elevated BMI, and sedentary behavior were associated with higher risk. The counseling model achieved high delivery (93%) and satisfaction (85%) rates. Qualitative insights revealed improved understanding of genomic risk and greater engagement in preventive behaviors. Only one new case of breast cancer was detected among intermediate-risk participants, with a diagnostic lead time of 12 months. Conclusions: These findings support the feasibility, acceptability, and potential impact of integrating PRS and genomic counseling in cancer prevention strategies in middle-income settings. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effects of low- and medium-frequency NMES, combined with a standard physical therapy (SPT) program, on functional capacity in critically ill patients. Methods: Fifty-four critically ill patients admitted into Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and on mechanical ventilation participated in this randomized, single-blinded, experimental study. Participants were randomly assigned to a Control group, who received a lower limb SPT program; the Low-frequency NMES group received lower limb SPT + NMES at 100 Hz; and the Medium-frequency NMES group received lower limb SPT + NMES at 100 Hz with a carrier frequency of 2500 Hz. The outcomes, encompassing functional capacity in the hospital, included muscle strength, handgrip strength, functional status, degree of independence for activities of daily living, functional and dynamic mobility, quality of life, and total days hospitalized. Results: Both NMES protocols combined with SPT improved functional capacity compared to the control group. Medium-frequency NMES provided additional benefits on dynamic balance, in the degree of independence to perform activities of daily living and quality of life (all p < 0.001) prior to hospital discharge. It also promoted larger gains on functional status prior to ICU discharge and on knee extension strength (both p < 0.05) prior to intermediate care unit discharge. Medium-frequency NMES also enhanced handgrip strength earlier than low-frequency NMES when compared to the control group. Notably, medium-frequency NMES was the only intervention associated with a significant reduction in total hospital stay duration (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Medium-frequency NMES, along with an SPT program in critically ill patients, showed greater benefits on functional capacity during recovery than low-frequency NMES. (Trial registration: This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05287919). Implications for rehabilitation: 1. Medium-frequency NMES may enhance physical functionality and quality of life in critically ill patients with ICU-acquired weakness. 2. Medium-frequency NMES can reduce the number of hospitalization days. 3. NMES combined with SPT represents a feasible and effective option for patients unable to engage in active rehabilitation during critical illness. Full article