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Keywords = T2D prevention

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12 pages, 3872 KB  
Brief Report
The Beneficial Effects of Berberine on Vascular Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes Are Enhanced by HSP70 Inhibition
by Valentina Ochoa Mendoza, Swasti Rastogi, Conner Weaver, Micheline Rosa Silveira and Kenia Pedrosa Nunes
Biomolecules 2026, 16(7), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16070959 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2026
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic metabolic disorder leading to increased cardiovascular risk and vascular dysfunction. Hyperglycemia, a hallmark of T2D, drives hypercontractility, thereby compromising vascular function. Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) has emerged as an important player in vascular reactivity under [...] Read more.
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic metabolic disorder leading to increased cardiovascular risk and vascular dysfunction. Hyperglycemia, a hallmark of T2D, drives hypercontractility, thereby compromising vascular function. Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) has emerged as an important player in vascular reactivity under physiological conditions via its interaction with calcium mobilization, and in T2D, blocking this protein prevents hypercontractility. Circulating extracellular HSP70 (eHSP70) has also been proposed as a biomarker in chronic diseases, as it can function as a damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) to activate the innate immune system and promote low-grade inflammation. Berberine (BBR), a natural alkaloid with anti-inflammatory properties, has been shown to attenuate vascular contraction by modulating intracellular calcium handling. Yet the link between HSP70 and BBR in modulating vascular contraction in T2D remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated whether acute and/or chronic BBR treatment modulates HSP70 to prevent vascular hypercontractility in the T2D mouse model. For acute ex vivo treatment, db/+ and db/db aortic rings were incubated for 30 min with or without the HSP70 inhibitor VER155008, in the presence or absence of BBR or vehicle. For chronic in vivo treatment, db/+ and db/db mice received intraperitoneal BBR injections (10 mg/kg, 3 times per week) and BBR in their drinking water (0.5 mg/mL) for 28 days. Following chronic (4 weeks, in vivo) or acute ex vivo (30 min) BBR treatment, vascular function was assessed in aortic rings isolated from male T2D (db/db) and age-matched non-diabetic (db/+) mice using wire myography. Rings were incubated with or without the HSP70 inhibitor VER155008, in the presence or absence of BBR or vehicle. Overt hyperglycemia and hypercontractility were observed in diabetic animals compared with non-diabetic controls. While acute BBR treatment attenuated vasoconstriction in both diabetic and nondiabetic groups, the combination of BBR and VER155008 produced a stronger inhibitory effect only in the diabetic group. Chronic BBR treatment prevented aortic hypercontractility in diabetic mice; however, the synergistic effect with VER155008 was no longer observed. Additionally, BBR reduced systemic HSP70 levels. Collectively, these findings indicate that BBR improves vascular smooth muscle cells’ function in T2D, at least in part, through HSP70-dependent mechanisms during chronic treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biomarkers)
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18 pages, 906 KB  
Systematic Review
Hypocalcemia in Dairy Cows: A Systematic Review of Metabolic Implications and Management Strategies
by Elena Stancheva and Toncho Penev
Life 2026, 16(7), 1082; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16071082 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hypocalcemia is a major transition-cow disorder in dairy cattle, with clinical and subclinical forms differing in detectability, severity, timing, and herd-level consequences. This systematic review integrates evidence on calcium (Ca) homeostasis, classification of clinical hypocalcemia (CHC) and subclinical hypocalcemia (SCH), diagnostic interpretation, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hypocalcemia is a major transition-cow disorder in dairy cattle, with clinical and subclinical forms differing in detectability, severity, timing, and herd-level consequences. This systematic review integrates evidence on calcium (Ca) homeostasis, classification of clinical hypocalcemia (CHC) and subclinical hypocalcemia (SCH), diagnostic interpretation, risk factors, systemic effects, and preventive and therapeutic strategies in dairy cows. Methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and CAB Abstracts were searched in February 2026 for 1994–2025 publications, and 23 reports were included in a qualitative synthesis; meta-analysis was not performed because of methodological and outcome heterogeneity. Results: The evidence indicates that hypocalcemia should be interpreted as a failure of homeorhetic adaptation to abrupt mammary Ca export rather than as a simple mineral deficiency. The parathyroid hormone–vitamin D axis, skeletal Ca mobilization, renal Ca conservation, intestinal Ca absorption, magnesium (Mg) status, dietary cation–anion difference (DCAD), dry matter intake, parity, and acid–base balance jointly determine whether blood Ca is maintained during early lactation. Total calcium (tCa) thresholds are useful decision aids for herd-level monitoring, but their interpretation depends on sampling time, parity, persistence pattern, clinical signs, and the relationship between tCa and ionized calcium (iCa). Subclinical hypocalcemia is most relevant when it is delayed, persistent, or occurs in high-risk cows because reduced Ca availability can impair smooth muscle function, feed intake, immune competence, uterine health, and metabolic resilience. Management should therefore combine prepartum ration control, Mg adequacy, DCAD and urine pH monitoring, selective Ca testing in high-risk cows, targeted oral Ca supplementation for standing cows, and intravenous Ca treatment for recumbent CHC cases. Conclusions: The evidence supports a risk-based, context-aware strategy rather than universal threshold-driven treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Dairy Cattle Health and Nutrition Management)
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16 pages, 1517 KB  
Article
Oral Hygiene Behaviors and Their Association with Angle Malocclusion Classes in Children Aged 6–9 Years: A WHO Questionnaire-Based Study
by Kaltrina Veseli, Fehim Haliti and Enis Veseli
Healthcare 2026, 14(13), 1837; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14131837 - 24 Jun 2026
Viewed by 173
Abstract
Background: Childhood oral hygiene behaviors are crucial to preventing oral diseases and can influence the development and progression of malocclusions. The World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Questionnaire is a standardized tool for assessing oral hygiene behaviors, oral health-related behaviors, and preventive dental [...] Read more.
Background: Childhood oral hygiene behaviors are crucial to preventing oral diseases and can influence the development and progression of malocclusions. The World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Questionnaire is a standardized tool for assessing oral hygiene behaviors, oral health-related behaviors, and preventive dental awareness in children. Aim: This study aimed to assess oral hygiene behaviours and examine associations between WHO Oral Health Questionnaire variables and Angle malocclusion classes among children aged 6–9 years. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 90 children aged 6–9 years from the Pristina region, Kosovo. Data were collected using the WHO Oral Health Questionnaire for Children, which assessed oral hygiene habits, toothbrushing frequency, fluoride awareness, dental attendance, dietary behaviors, oral symptoms, and oral-health-related quality of life. Malocclusion was classified according to Angle classification into Class I, II, and III malocclusions with 3D intraoral scanners, Aerolscan 3. Descriptive statistical analysis, Chi-square (χ2) test, Spearman correlation analysis, and reliability analysis using Cronbach’s Alpha were performed using SPSS Statistics 23.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) and Statistica 7.1 (StatSoft Inc., Tusla, OK, USA). Results: Most participants reported regular oral hygiene practices, with 46.7% brushing their teeth two or more times daily. However, limited awareness regarding fluoride-containing toothpaste was observed, as most children answered “don’t know” regarding fluoride use. Occasional toothache or oral discomfort was reported by 33.3% of participants, while 23.3% reported dissatisfaction with dental appearance. Difficulty biting hard foods was present in 34.4% of children. Reliability analysis of the Q10 section demonstrated moderate internal consistency (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.500). Chi-square analysis demonstrated no statistically significant association between Angle malocclusion classes and WHO questionnaire variables (p > 0.05). The highest χ2 value was observed for tooth-cleaning frequency (Q7) (χ2 = 11.97; p = 0.152), although the association remained statistically non-significant. Psychosocial impact questions and oral health-related quality of life questions also demonstrated no statistically significant association with malocclusion classes. Conclusions: oral hygiene practices, preventative oral health practices, and oral health-related experiences were comparatively similar among children in different Angle malocclusion classes. Although there were no statistically significant correlations found between malocclusion classes and WHO questionnaire variables, the results show that some children have psychosocial concerns about their dental appearance and insufficient awareness of preventive oral health. The WHO Oral Health Questionnaire is a useful epidemiological tool for evaluating pediatric oral health behaviors and may help build youth orthodontic and preventive oral health policies. Full article
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15 pages, 458 KB  
Article
Coupling and Uncoupling Pleiotropy Between Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes Contribute to Exploring Potential Heterogeneity in Cardiovascular Risk in East Asian Population
by Huan Yu, Liuyan Zheng, Jingxian Wu, Ruotong Yang, Kun Wang, Huairong Wang, Shuting Xie, Yalin Chen, Teng Li, Xueying Qin, Yonghua Hu and Yiqun Wu
Biomedicines 2026, 14(6), 1404; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14061404 - 22 Jun 2026
Viewed by 223
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aims to systematically deconstruct the shared genetic architecture underlying the comorbidity of hypertension (HTN) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) and evaluate how these divergent genetic architectures are associated with differential cardiovascular risk in East Asian population. Methods: This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study aims to systematically deconstruct the shared genetic architecture underlying the comorbidity of hypertension (HTN) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) and evaluate how these divergent genetic architectures are associated with differential cardiovascular risk in East Asian population. Methods: This two-stage study first leveraged the largest genetic dataset from >300,000 East Asian individuals to identify pleiotropic loci between hypertension and type 2 diabetes using conjunctional false discovery rates, classifying them into coupling and uncoupling types based on effect directions. Corresponding polygenic risk scores (PRSs) were then constructed and validated in an independent family-based cohort. A logistic regression model was used to examine the associations between different genetic architectures and cardiovascular risk, including comorbidity onset and cardiovascular outcomes. Results: A total of 463 pleiotropic loci were identified, including 439 coupling loci and 24 uncoupling loci. The coupling PRS showed a significant association with single T2D (OR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.08–2.18; p = 0.017), whereas the other associations were not significant, although the effect estimates were directionally consistent with our hypothesis. Crucially, coupling and uncoupling PRSs showed divergent cardiovascular risk profiles and exhibited distinct gene–environment interactions. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that coupling and uncoupling pleiotropy between hypertension and type 2 diabetes may contribute to the heterogeneity of cardiovascular risk in East Asians. Deconstructing genetic pleiotropy offers a potential framework for precision prevention strategies, although these findings are exploratory and warrant further validation in larger cohorts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Metabolism Research)
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14 pages, 13213 KB  
Article
Cinnamon-Derived Compounds Reduce PD-L1 Expression in UV-Exposed Human Skin Cell Line
by Chidambaram Ramanathan, Richard J. Bloomer and Gus Romero
Medicines 2026, 13(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines13020020 - 20 Jun 2026
Viewed by 207
Abstract
Background/Objective: Ultraviolet A and B (UVAB) radiation is a major environmental factor that induces DNA damage and upregulates programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in skin cells, thereby contributing to immune evasion and impaired tissue repair. This study evaluated the protective effects of two [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: Ultraviolet A and B (UVAB) radiation is a major environmental factor that induces DNA damage and upregulates programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in skin cells, thereby contributing to immune evasion and impaired tissue repair. This study evaluated the protective effects of two purified compounds, Cinnamtannin B1 (CTB-1) and Cinnamtannin D1 (CTD-1), as well as cinnamon extract, in UVAB-irradiated human keratinocyte HaCaT cells. Methods: HaCaT cells were exposed to low (20 kJ/m2 UVA, 1.3 kJ/m2 UVB), medium (30 kJ/m2 UVA, 2 kJ/m2 UVB), and high (40 kJ/m2 UVA, 2.7 kJ/m2 UVB) UVAB doses of UVAB radiation. Dose-dependent effects of CTB-1 and CTD-1 (0, 5, 10, 25, and 50 µg/ mL) and cinnamon extract (0, 5, 10, 50, and 100 µg/mL), as well as time-dependent effects (12, 24, and 72 h), were evaluated by measuring PD-L1 expression, cell viability, and DNA damage. Results: CTD-1 was the most effective compound, significantly reducing UVAB-induced PD-L1 expression and DNA double-strand breaks without compromising cell viability. CTB-1 also demonstrated protective effects at specific doses and time points; however, higher concentrations reduced cell viability. Cinnamon extract was protective at low concentrations but cytotoxic at higher doses. Conclusions: CTD-1, CTB-1, and cinnamon extract attenuated UVAB-induced cellular damage in HaCaT cells, with CTD-1 demonstrating the most favorable protective profile. These findings support the potential of cinnamon-derived compounds as therapeutic candidates for preventing UVAB-induced skin damage and immune dysregulation. Full article
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20 pages, 556 KB  
Article
Quasi-Experimental Study Assessing the Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention for Fall Prevention Among Older Adults in Saudi Arabia
by Anwar Alhashem, Reham Alharbi, Rayouf Al-Otaibi, Nora Alsakran, Aryam Alharbi and Ghaida Hakami
Healthcare 2026, 14(12), 1771; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14121771 - 19 Jun 2026
Viewed by 246
Abstract
Background: With increasing life expectancy, older adult populations worldwide are growing rapidly. Falls are among the most prominent problems that older adults face. This study aimed to assess the educational components of the Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, & Injuries (STEADI) program for improving [...] Read more.
Background: With increasing life expectancy, older adult populations worldwide are growing rapidly. Falls are among the most prominent problems that older adults face. This study aimed to assess the educational components of the Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, & Injuries (STEADI) program for improving knowledge, skills, and behavioral intentions for fall prevention among older adults. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with a non-equivalent control group pretest–posttest design, involving 128 older women (≥60 years) in a community center in Riyadh. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Pearson’s chi-square test was performed to compare demographic and physical characteristics between the groups. Independent-sample t-tests, effect size calculation (Cohen’s d), and ANCOVA-adjusted analyses were used to compare post-intervention outcomes between groups. Within-group changes were compared using a paired t-test. Additionally, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to compare the demographic, health, and physical characteristics of the participants. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The intervention group showed improved knowledge (t = 11.654), skills (t = 7.961), and intention to perform preventive behaviors (t = 3.785), with a significant p-value of <0.0001. Large intervention effects were observed for knowledge (Cohen’s d = 2.30) and skills (Cohen’s d = 1.57). ANCOVA-adjusted analyses confirmed significant intervention effects for knowledge (adjusted mean difference = 5.06, 95% CI 4.46–5.66, p < 0.001) and skills (adjusted mean difference = 1.87, 95% CI 1.56–2.18, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results indicate that the STEADI program produces significant short-term improvements in knowledge, skills, and behavioral intentions related to fall prevention. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating prevention programs into community settings and activating the role of families in supporting preventive practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fall Prevention and Geriatric Nursing—2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 1005 KB  
Article
Type 2 Diabetes Causally Reduces Circulating Vitamin D Levels: A Multi-Ancestry Mendelian Randomization Study
by Madhusmita Rout, Piers Blackett and Dharambir K. Sanghera
Nutrients 2026, 18(12), 1944; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18121944 - 16 Jun 2026
Viewed by 410
Abstract
Background: Vitamin D (25(OH)D) deficiency affects over one billion people globally and is associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiometabolic diseases. However, causal relationships remain unclear, as vitamin D supplementation has shown limited benefit in reducing the risk of T2D. Genetic studies [...] Read more.
Background: Vitamin D (25(OH)D) deficiency affects over one billion people globally and is associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiometabolic diseases. However, causal relationships remain unclear, as vitamin D supplementation has shown limited benefit in reducing the risk of T2D. Genetic studies have identified variants that influence circulating 25(OH)D levels, but whether genetically determined vitamin D status predicts cardiometabolic outcomes remains uncertain. Methods and Results: Using multi-ethnic populations from the UK Biobank (471,861) and the Asian Indian Diabetic Heart Study (3486), we performed genome-wide univariate and polygenic risk score (PRS)-based bidirectional MR analyses to determine the causal association between vitamin D and T2D. A polygenic score of vitamin D–raising alleles did not affect the risk of T2D or cardiovascular disease. In contrast, a higher T2D PRS was strongly associated with an increased risk for 25(OH)D deficiency. Genetically instrumented per SD increase in T2D PRS was predicted to significantly (p = 9.5 × 10−31) reduce circulating 25(OH)D (β = −9.1 nmol/L; 95% CI: −8.9 to −9.3). The ancestry-specific univariate MR and sensitivity analyses confirmed that vitamin D levels reduced significantly with increasing T2D risk across all ancestries. Conclusions: Our findings suggest low circulating vitamin D levels are unlikely to causally predict T2D risk but may serve as a marker for secondary prevention in endocrine and cardiovascular health. Instead, genetic susceptibility to T2D appears to contribute to vitamin D insufficiency, which may lead to cardiovascular complications. Further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying vitamin D deficiency in diabetes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Diabetes)
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19 pages, 480 KB  
Article
Clock Gene Variants Are Associated with Energy and Macronutrient Intake in Early Childhood and Adulthood
by Zachary J. Ribau, Sanjeena Subedi, Lori Ann Vallis, Hannah J. Coyle-Asbil, Angela Annis, Madeline Nixon, Lyn Hillyer, Alison M. Duncan, Jess Haines and David W. L. Ma
Nutrients 2026, 18(12), 1906; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18121906 - 12 Jun 2026
Viewed by 319
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Obesity remains a global health concern, and personalized prevention strategies that consider genetic predispositions can enhance existing strategies. Research suggests that variation in circadian rhythm-related genes, or clock genes, may influence obesity risk, in part through effects on dietary behaviour. However, associations [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Obesity remains a global health concern, and personalized prevention strategies that consider genetic predispositions can enhance existing strategies. Research suggests that variation in circadian rhythm-related genes, or clock genes, may influence obesity risk, in part through effects on dietary behaviour. However, associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in clock genes and dietary outcomes remain understudied, particularly in children. Therefore, we investigated cross-sectional associations between clock gene SNPs and dietary outcomes using baseline data from 226 adults (138 females, 88 males) aged 26–50 y and 168 children (90 females, 78 males) aged 2–6 y from the Guelph Family Health Study. Methods: DNA was extracted from saliva and genotyped using the Illumina Global Diversity Array, and dietary intake was assessed using the Automated Self-Administered 24 h Dietary Assessment Tool. Nine SNPs representing 8 clock genes were selected based on prior associations with dietary and obesity-related outcomes. Generalized Estimating Equations were used to test associations, adjusted for multiple comparisons with the Benjamini–Hochberg false discovery rate (FDR) procedure. Results: Ten nominal associations were identified (p < 0.05), and 2 remained significant after FDR correction (Padj < 0.05); among children, rs2314339-T (NR1D1) was associated with a lower percentage of energy from protein (β = −2.4%, Padj = 0.003) and rs11605924-A (CRY2) with higher energy intake (β = 118.0 kcal, Padj = 0.044). Conclusions: Findings suggest that clock gene SNPs may influence dietary habits from early childhood. Future longitudinal and functional studies are needed to clarify whether these variants can inform precision nutrition strategies for obesity prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics)
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25 pages, 940 KB  
Review
The Role of Microbiota in Type 1 Diabetes: Insights into Dysbiosis and Immune Interactions
by Ancuta Lupu, Emil Anton, Maria Oana Sasaran, Irina Tarnita, Ileana Ioniuc, Tania Elena Rusu, Stefana Moisa, Elena Tarca, Lacramioara Ionela Butnariu, Elena Cristina Mitrofan, Alin Horatiu Nedelcu, Sorana Caterina Anton, Anton Knieling, Ionela Daniela Morariu and Vasile Valeriu Lupu
Nutrients 2026, 18(12), 1904; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18121904 - 12 Jun 2026
Viewed by 433
Abstract
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a complex autoimmune disorder characterized by immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, driven by genetic susceptibility and modulated by environmental factors, notably the gut microbiome. Dysbiosis, manifested as reduced microbial diversity, perturbations in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, and compromised [...] Read more.
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a complex autoimmune disorder characterized by immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, driven by genetic susceptibility and modulated by environmental factors, notably the gut microbiome. Dysbiosis, manifested as reduced microbial diversity, perturbations in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, and compromised short-chain fatty acid production, contributes to T1D pathogenesis through mechanisms involving immune system dysregulation and heightened intestinal permeability. Emerging evidence indicates a relationship between the gut and oral microbiomes, as well as the potential influence of the virome and mycobiome. This narrative review synthesizes the current literature on the intricate interplay between the gut microbial ecosystem, the host immune response, and the development of T1D, highlighting the potential for targeted microbiome-based interventions to ameliorate disease progression. A more nuanced understanding of these multi-kingdom interactions is essential for developing precise therapeutic strategies to prevent or delay T1D onset and to improve patient outcomes through restoration of immune tolerance and gut homeostasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Nutrition)
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12 pages, 242 KB  
Article
Dietary Macronutrient and Micronutrient Adequacy Relative to Individualized Energy-Adjusted Recommendations in Young Adults: The NutAF Study
by Daniel Velázquez Díaz, Pablo Santiago-Arriaza, Alejandro Perez-Bey, Juan Corral-Pérez, María Rebollo-Ramos, Alberto Marín-Galindo, Adrián Montes-de-Oca-García, Andrea González-Mariscal and Jesús G. Ponce-González
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(12), 5800; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16125800 - 9 Jun 2026
Viewed by 267
Abstract
Background: Adequate nutrition during young adulthood is essential for health promotion, optimal physiological function, and the prevention of non-communicable diseases. However, evidence describing both nutrient adequacy and compliance with dietary recommendations in well-characterized samples of young adults remains limited. Therefore, the aim of [...] Read more.
Background: Adequate nutrition during young adulthood is essential for health promotion, optimal physiological function, and the prevention of non-communicable diseases. However, evidence describing both nutrient adequacy and compliance with dietary recommendations in well-characterized samples of young adults remains limited. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to describe macronutrient and micronutrient adequacy and to quantify compliance with current dietary recommendations in young adults using an individualized energy-adjusted nutrient adequacy approach (NARm), and to explore sex differences to identify priority targets to inform tailored health promotion and public health nutrition strategies. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 74 young adults aged 18–45 years participating in the NutAF project. Dietary intake was assessed using a 5-day dietary record, including three weekdays and two weekend days. Modified nutrient adequacy ratios (NARm), adjusted according to individualized total daily energy expenditure, were calculated for macronutrients and micronutrients. The prevalence of compliance with current dietary recommendations was also determined. Differences between men and women were analyzed using independent samples t-tests. Results: Protein and total lipid intake levels exceeded recommended values in most participants, whereas carbohydrate adequacy was below recommendations. Regarding micronutrients, adequate intake was observed for several nutrients; however, low adequacy and low compliance rates were identified for calcium, folate, vitamin D, and omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. No participants met the recommendations for vitamin D. No significant sex differences were observed for most nutrients. Conclusions: Despite intake levels above recommendations for some macronutrients, young adults included in this study exhibited inadequate intake and low compliance with current dietary recommendations for several key nutrients. No relevant sex differences were observed for most nutrients. These findings, obtained using an individualized energy-adjusted nutrient adequacy approach (NARm), underscore the need for targeted nutritional strategies, including nutrition education and micronutrient-focused interventions, aimed at improving dietary adequacy and supporting health promotion in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Promotion Through Physical Activity and Diet)
15 pages, 5936 KB  
Article
Sinus- and Sequence-Specific Diagnostic Performance of Routine Unenhanced Brain MRI in Dural Venous Sinus Thrombosis
by Mehmet Karagulle, Tahsin Benlice, Tuba Banaz and Burak Kocak
Diagnostics 2026, 16(12), 1771; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16121771 - 8 Jun 2026
Viewed by 237
Abstract
Background: Dural venous sinus thrombosis (DVST) is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening cerebrovascular disorder requiring early diagnosis to prevent serious complications. Although CE-MRV is the reference standard, routine brain MRI is often the first imaging study in patients with nonspecific neurological symptoms, and [...] Read more.
Background: Dural venous sinus thrombosis (DVST) is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening cerebrovascular disorder requiring early diagnosis to prevent serious complications. Although CE-MRV is the reference standard, routine brain MRI is often the first imaging study in patients with nonspecific neurological symptoms, and the sinus-specific diagnostic performance of individual sequences remains incompletely defined. Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic performance and inter-reader agreement of routine brain MRI sequences for DVST detection using a sinus-specific framework. Methods: This retrospective case–control study included 140 patients (34 with DVST, 106 age-matched controls) imaged on 1.5 T and 3.0 T scanners. Two blinded neuroradiologists evaluated six unenhanced sequences (sagittal/axial T1WI, T2WI, FLAIR, DWI [b = 1000 s/mm2], and SWI) across four dural sinuses, using CE-MRV and CE-3D T1WI as the reference standards. Logistic regression and Cohen’s κ assessed diagnostic performance and inter-reader agreement, respectively. Results: Globally, DWI with FLAIR achieved 97.9% accuracy, 91.2% sensitivity, and 100% specificity (AUC = 0.997). Optimal sequences varied by sinus: sagittal T1WI with SWI for the superior sagittal sinus (accuracy = 99.3%), DWI with SWI for the transverse sinus (97.9%), DWI with FLAIR and T2WI for the sigmoid sinus (98.6%), and SWI with axial T1 for the straight sinus (100%). Inter-reader agreement was substantial to almost perfect for routine sequences (mean κ = 0.874) and almost perfect for CE-MRV and CE-3D T1WI (κ = 0.98). Conclusions: Routine brain MRI provides reliable DVST detection with a sinus-tailored multisequence strategy. DWI and FLAIR offer robust diagnostic performance in global evaluation, while T1WI, SWI and T2WI add segment-specific value, reserving CE-MRV and CE-3D T1WI for equivocal or clinically suspicious cases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain MRI: Current Development and Applications)
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23 pages, 609 KB  
Review
Dementia, Diabetes, and Physical Inactivity in Global Majority Populations: A Meta-Narrative Review and Recommendations
by Muhammad Hossain
J. Dement. Alzheimer's Dis. 2026, 3(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/jdad3020028 - 8 Jun 2026
Viewed by 168
Abstract
Background: Dementia and Type 2 diabetes (T2D) represent two of the most pressing global public health challenges of our time, both exacerbated by physical inactivity. These conditions disproportionately affect Global Majority populations, who experience earlier onset, higher prevalence, and poorer access to culturally [...] Read more.
Background: Dementia and Type 2 diabetes (T2D) represent two of the most pressing global public health challenges of our time, both exacerbated by physical inactivity. These conditions disproportionately affect Global Majority populations, who experience earlier onset, higher prevalence, and poorer access to culturally appropriate preventive care. However, conventional research and interventions often overlook the sociocultural and structural factors that underpin this disparity. This study synthesises current evidence to understand how these three conditions intersect and to identify equitable pathways for prevention and support. Methods: A meta-narrative review approach was employed to integrate evidence from diverse biomedical, public health, sociocultural and intervention science traditions. Searches were undertaken across MEDLINE/PubMed-adapted searches, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection, AMED and ASSIA, supplemented by grey literature searching and citation chasing. Five meta-narratives were identified: biomedical and epidemiological, public health, health disparities, sociocultural and behavioural, and intervention science. Cross-narrative synthesis produced a conceptual framework linking upstream determinants, lifestyle factors, and disease outcomes. Results: The review revealed that structural inequities such as deprivation, environmental barriers and sociocultural factors including stigma, gendered norms, limited access to culturally appropriate facilities that restrict physical activity (PA) opportunities within Global Majority communities. These constraints elevate T2D and dementia risk through biological pathways involving insulin resistance, vascular injury, and neuroinflammation. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) interventions particularly those delivered in trusted cultural or faith settings emerged as effective strategies to improve PA, glycaemic control, and cognitive well-being. Conclusions: This synthesis reframes dementia and diabetes as interlinked within a wider syndemic driven by structural and sociocultural inequities. The proposed framework underscores the importance of culturally grounded, community-led approaches to promote brain health, reduce risk, and achieve equitable healthy ageing among Global Majority populations. Full article
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16 pages, 857 KB  
Article
Vitamin D3 Enhances Endothelial Function and Improves Vascular Reactivity in an Experimental Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Rats
by Amanda Suellenn da Silva Santos Oliveira, Joyce Lopes Macedo, Lais Lima de Castro Abreu, Ana Karolinne da Silva Brito, Ana Victória da Silva Mendes, José Otávio Carvalho Sena de Almeida, Andressa Amorim dos Santos, José Vinícius de Sousa França, Janyerson Dannys Pereira da Silva, Daniel Dias Rufino Arcanjo and Maria do Carmo de Carvalho e Martins
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(6), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19060867 - 30 May 2026
Viewed by 293
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by insulin resistance and chronic hyperglycemia, which significantly impair vascular function. In experimental T2DM models, the vascular endothelium is compromised, showing decreased vasodilator responses. Vitamin D3 has emerged as a promising intervention for improving [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by insulin resistance and chronic hyperglycemia, which significantly impair vascular function. In experimental T2DM models, the vascular endothelium is compromised, showing decreased vasodilator responses. Vitamin D3 has emerged as a promising intervention for improving glycemic parameters and restoring endothelial function. This study evaluated the effects of vitamin D3 (0.25 and 0.50 µg/kg/day) administered for 4 and 8 weeks on the ex vivo aortic vascular reactivity of T2DM rats. Methods: T2DM was induced in male Wistar rats via a high-fat, normoprotein diet and streptozotocin (30 mg/kg, i.p.). Groups included normal control, diabetic control, metformin, and vitamin D3 (0.25 or 0.50 µg/kg/day). Following 4 or 8 weeks of treatment, thoracic aortic segments were isolated for ex vivo vascular reactivity studies to assess responses to vasoconstrictor and vasorelaxant agents. Results: Vitamin D3 treatment improved glycemic profiles; the 0.25 µg/kg dose reduced fasting glucose, while the 0.50 µg/kg dose lowered glycated hemoglobin at 8 weeks. Endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine was significantly increased in diabetic rats treated with vitamin D3 at both doses over 4 weeks compared to diabetic controls. Moreover, vitamin D3 prevented the attenuation of maximal contractile responses to phenylephrine observed in untreated diabetic rats at 8 weeks. Conclusions: Vitamin D3 supplementation restores endothelial function and improves vascular reactivity in an experimental T2DM model. These findings suggest that vitamin D3 may mitigate vascular complications by enhancing vasorelaxation and maintaining contractile integrity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacotherapy of Dyslipidemias, 2nd Edition)
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31 pages, 8537 KB  
Article
Physics-Informed Neural Networks for Excited Liquid Sloshing with Beating Response in Two- and Three-Dimensional Rectangular Tanks
by Zhiqiang Luo
Symmetry 2026, 18(6), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym18060917 - 27 May 2026
Viewed by 245
Abstract
This paper applies physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) to laterally excited liquid sloshing in a two-dimensional rectangular tank, where near-resonant forcing (ωe/ω1=0.9) produces a multi-frequency beating response with a period of approximately 10T1. [...] Read more.
This paper applies physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) to laterally excited liquid sloshing in a two-dimensional rectangular tank, where near-resonant forcing (ωe/ω1=0.9) produces a multi-frequency beating response with a period of approximately 10T1. Linearized potential flow theory governs the problem; the network learns the velocity potential φ(x,z,t) while the free-surface elevation η is injected analytically. Two training obstacles specific to forced sloshing are analyzed. First, a zero-solution trap arises because the trivial solution φ^=0 satisfies all equations except the free-surface conditions, whose residuals are roughly 104 times smaller than the Laplace residual; characteristic-scale normalization combined with loss weighting (λD=λK=100) breaks this trap. Second, spectral bias prevents standard MLPs from resolving the three co-existing frequencies (ω1, ωe, Δω); a Fourier time embedding that augments the input from 3 to 9 dimensions overcomes this limitation. Two additional techniques further reduce errors: a hard-wall boundary condition enforced exactly via a cos(πx/B) spatial embedding, which eliminates wall collocation points; and a gradient-enhanced Laplace regularizer ((2φ^)2) that constrains velocity smoothness through third-order automatic differentiation. An ablation study shows that these four techniques progressively reduce the horizontal velocity error from εu=12.46% to 0.84%. Results are validated against a viscous finite-difference benchmark. Over one beating cycle the errors are εη=0.15%, εu=0.84%, and εw=1.65%. A frequency parameter study across ωe/ω1 = 0.5–1.1 gives εη<0.25% and εu<2.3% for all near-resonance cases. For long-time simulation, a time-domain decomposition strategy with transfer learning partitions the domain into one-beat windows; extending to five beating cycles (50T1) yields εu=3.43% and εη=0.30% with no monotonic error accumulation across windows. The methodology is then extended to a three-dimensional rectangular tank (B×W×H) with bi-directional lateral excitation. The 3-D formulation introduces the y-dimension into the Laplace equation (2φ=φxx+φyy+φzz=0), adds transverse wall boundary conditions (φ/y=0) enforced exactly via a cos(πy/W) embedding, and extends the Fourier time embedding from 9 to 16 dimensions to accommodate six physical frequencies. The bi-directional excitation excites both (m,0) and (0,n) modal families, producing a genuinely three-dimensional beating response. Experimental results verify that the proposed methods can be well generalized to three-dimensional scenarios. Within a single beating cycle, the relative errors reach εη=0.24%, εu=1.31%, εv=1.78% and εw=2.32%, with a total training time of 2499 s. By applying time domain decomposition to carry out two-cycle three-dimensional simulations, the model can steadily maintain satisfactory prediction precision across segmented time intervals, achieving overall errors of εη=0.30% and εu=1.32%. Full article
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22 pages, 1537 KB  
Review
The Triangular Interaction Between Dietary Polyphenols, Gut Microbiota and Type 2 Diabetes
by Emily Bayliss, Landri Shope, Seth Woodfin, Gretchka Mair, Matthew H. Becker and William Moore
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(11), 4782; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27114782 - 26 May 2026
Viewed by 737
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a growing global health concern characterized by peripheral insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells. Emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiome, specifically gut dysbiosis, defined as an imbalance in the gut microbial composition and function, [...] Read more.
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a growing global health concern characterized by peripheral insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells. Emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiome, specifically gut dysbiosis, defined as an imbalance in the gut microbial composition and function, is a critical modulator of the pathophysiology of T2D. Dietary polyphenols, a diverse group of bioactive compounds that are abundant in plant-based foods, have gained increasing attention for their potential to attenuate metabolic disorders through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds work through the modulation of gut microbial composition and activity. This process effectively ameliorates dysbiosis. However, the diabetic state itself may influence polyphenol metabolism, absorption, and bioavailability, potentially limiting their therapeutic efficacy. This review examines the complex interrelationships between T2D, dietary polyphenols, and the gut microbiota and proposes a dynamic triangular interaction between these factors that might inform novel strategies for the prevention and management of metabolic disease. Full article
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