Search Results (6,340)

The sustainable revalorization of porcine blood is crucial due to the large volumes daily generated in slaughterhouses. The aim of this study was to obtain a novel ingredient rich in free amino acids and bioactive peptides from the sequential hydrolysis of porcine blood. Porcine blood was hydrolyzed with Alcalase 4.0 L and Protana™ Prime enzymes, followed by molecular weight fractionation (<10 kDa) and spray-drying. The antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and anti-inflammatory bioactivities of the resulting hydrolysate (PBSH) were studied in vitro. Further fractionation by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) was performed to isolate the most bioactive fraction based on polarity. Peptides from fraction 1 (F1) were identified using LC-MS/MS and analyzed in silico. Finally, some peptides were synthesized, and their bioactivity was subsequently assessed. PBSH hydrolysate showed antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ values of 2.09, 135.05, and 26.73 mg/mL for ABTS, FRAP, and DPPH assays, respectively. Additionally, PBSH exhibited hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory potential through the inhibition of DPP-IV (82.78%), NEP (84.72%), TACE (50.79%), and MGL (69.08%) enzymes at a concentration of 20, 20, 100, and 20 mg/mL, respectively. Peptides PDDFNPS, FPPKPKD, DNPIPK, GHLDDLPG, and GDL were identified in the most polar and bioactive fraction (F1) and proved a synergistic hypoglycemic effect at a concentration of 1 mmol/L. The peptide PDDFNPS exhibited multifunctional properties with 56.43% inhibition of DPP-IV and 83.54% inhibition of NEP. PBSH resulted in a novel functional ingredient for animal feed as it contains a variety of identified bioactive peptides and a high amount of free amino acids. Full article

Telerehabilitation is an effective, accessible addition or alternative to conventional rehabilitation for fracture management, especially in older adults after hip fractures, leveraging video visits, mHealth apps, virtual reality (VR), and wearable sensors to deliver exercise, education, and monitoring at home with high satisfaction and adherence. Across non-surgical and surgical contexts, telemedicine shows feasibility and cost benefits, with mixed superiority but consistent non-inferiority for functional outcomes versus in-person care. In hip fracture populations, randomized and non-randomized studies indicate improvements in functional independence measure (FIM), Timed Up and Go test (TUG), Activities of Daily Living/Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (ADLs/IADLs), and quality of life, with some evidence for reduced anxiety and depression, while effects on mobility, pain, and adverse events remain uncertain overall. In patients with upper-limb fractures, telerehabilitation appears to improve function and pain, though strength gains may lag compared with in-person therapy in some trials; adjuncts like motor imagery and virtual reality may enhance outcomes and motivation. Application is facilitated by user-friendly platforms, caregiver involvement, and simple modalities such as structured phone follow-up. Limitations include small samples, heterogeneous protocols, scarce long-term data, and a predominance of non-inferiority or complementary designs, warranting larger, definitive trials. This technology can lead to improved patient management at home, effortlessly verifying treatment compliance, efficacy, and safety, while simultaneously reducing the need for hospitalization, promoting a more peaceful recovery. Here, we have undertaken a narrative review of the medical–scientific literature in this field. Full article

The management of severely comminuted acetabular posterior wall fractures in young, active patients presents a significant surgical challenge. When anatomical open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is not feasible, primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) is often considered but is a suboptimal solution due to concerns over long-term implant survivorship and the inevitability of revision surgery. This single-patient technical note presents a novel joint-preserving technique for managing unreconstructible acetabular posterior wall fractures using with cement-augmented screw fixation via the Kocher–Langenbeck approach. A 28-year-old male sustained a left posterior hip dislocation with a comminuted acetabular posterior wall fracture involving >30% of the articular surface, alongside a tibial shaft fracture, following a high-energy motorcycle collision. Intraoperative assessment confirmed the posterior wall was unreconstructible, with six non-viable osteochondral fragments. A joint-preserving salvage procedure was performed. After debridement, a stable metallic framework was created using three screws anchored in the posterior column. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement was then applied over this framework in its doughy phase, meticulously contoured to reconstruct the articular surface. The hip was reduced, and the tibia was fixed with an intramedullary nail. The patient was mobilized with weight-bearing as tolerated on postoperative day 3. At the 21-month follow-up, the patient reported no pain during daily activities and only mild discomfort during deep squatting. Radiographic and CT evaluations demonstrated a stable hip joint, concentric reduction, well-maintained joint space, and no evidence of implant loosening or osteolysis. Level of Evidence: V (Technical Note/single-patient Case report). For unreconstructible, comminuted fractures of the non-weight-bearing portion of the acetabular posterior wall in young patients, cement-augmented screw fixation offers a viable joint-preserving alternative to primary THA. This technique provides immediate stability, facilitates early mobilization, and preserves bone stock. While long-term outcomes require further study, this case demonstrates excellent functional and radiographic results at 21 months, presenting a promising new option for managing these complex injuries. Full article

The colon plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and intestinal health of ruminants during various physiological stages. Plateau ruminants have long been subjected to extreme environments characterized by hypoxia, cold, and nutritional scarcity, which makes their dependence on energy metabolism particularly pronounced. However, existing research on the regulatory effects of dietary energy levels on the colonic function of plateau ruminants is still quite limited. This study involved 60 healthy male Pamir yaks with consistent body conditions, which were randomly divided into three groups: a low-energy diet group (YG, Neg 1.53 MJ/kg), a medium-energy diet group (QG, Neg 2.12 MJ/kg), and a high-energy diet group (RG, Neg 2.69 MJ/kg). Each yak was provided with 5 kg of mixed feed daily over a 170-day feeding trial. The results indicated that a high-energy diet enhanced growth performance in yaks (p < 0.05). However, it also induced local colonic inflammation, decreased levels of immune factors (IgA, IgG, and IL-10), and increased the abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria, such as Klebsiella and Campylobacter (p < 0.05). Conversely, a medium-energy diet fostered the proliferation of beneficial bacteria such as Bradymonadales, Parabacteroides, and Mogibacterium (p < 0.05), and preserved immune homeostasis. Additionally, multi-omics analysis revealed that the QG group was significantly enriched in key metabolic pathways, including pyruvate metabolism and glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism and panto-thenate and CoA biosynthesis pathways, among others (p < 0.05), demonstrating a synergistic regulatory effect among the microbiome, metabolism, and host. In summary, a moderate-energy diet can promote the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the extreme environment of the plateau. By regulating pathways such as Amino acid, Nucleotide, and Lipid metabolism, it coordinates the expression of key host genes and metabolite levels, effectively balancing immune signals and energy metabolism. This interaction establishes a beneficial microbial-metabolism-host pattern that supports colon health. Full article

Background and Objectives: Horse riding simulators (HRS) provide rhythmic, repetitive, and multidirectional movements analogous to horseback riding, which may facilitate postural control, balance, and functional abilities in children with cerebral palsy (CP). This study aimed to investigate the effects of the HRS application on the muscle tone of the lower extremity, gross motor function, trunk postural control, balance, gait functions, and functional independence in children with CP. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental study included 30 children with cerebral palsy (17 hemiparetic, 13 diparetic; mean age, 9.3 ± 3.2 years). All participants received Neurodevelopmental Therapy (NDT) for eight weeks, followed by eight weeks of HRS plus NDT, in a sequential design. Outcomes included the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Myoton^®PRO, Gross Motor Function Measures (GMFM)-88, Pedalo^® Sensamove Balance Test (Pedalo^® SBT), Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), gait analysis parameters, and Functional Independence Measure (WeeFIM). Assessments were made at baseline, the 8th, and the 16th week. Results: At week 16, after incorporating HRS, all MAS parameters demonstrated greater improvements compared to those achieved during the first eight weeks of NDT alone (ES: 0.728–0.931, p < 0.05). Myoton^®PRO measurements showed a significant reduction in gastrocnemius stiffness (ES = 0.672, p < 0.05) in hemiparetic children and decreases in hip adductor (ES: 0.649, p < 0.05) and gastrocnemius-soleus (ES: 0.766–0.865, p < 0.05) stiffness from week 8 to 16 in diparetic children following HRS intervention. Total scores on the GMFM-88, WeeFIM, TIS, and PBS improved significantly, with large effect sizes observed both from baseline to week 16 and from week 8 to 16 (ES: 0.771–0.886, p < 0.05). Additionally, Pedalo^® SBT scores increased following HRS intervention from baseline to week 16 (ES = 0.599–0.602, p < 0.05). Conclusions: HRS integrated with conventional NDT may improve muscle tone, motor function, balance, gait, and functional independence in children with cerebral palsy, representing a valuable adjunct to standard rehabilitation. These findings provide the first evidence that simulator-assisted interventions may benefit daily activities in children with cerebral palsy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Children with myelomeningocele (MMC) often experience lower extremity muscular contractures, which can impact their functional mobility. While standing programs have demonstrated benefits for children with other neuromuscular conditions, there is limited evidence on their use in ambulatory children with MMC who have joint deformities. This single-subject design study examined the impact of a home-based standing program on two ambulatory children with MMC, focusing on lower extremity muscle flexibility, functional movement quality, gait velocity, and participation in daily activities. Methods: Two children participated in a multi-phase single-subject (ABABA) withdrawal design beginning with the baseline phase and then alternating between the intervention and withdrawal phases. The intervention consisted of 60-minute standing sessions, five days a week, using a sit-to-stand stander (STSS) with support and supervision from a physical therapist (PT) and the parent. Primary outcomes included goniometric passive range of motion (PROM) and 10-Meter Walk Test (10 MWT). Secondary outcomes included the Pediatric Neuromuscular Recovery Scale (Peds NRS) and the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT). Results: Improvements in hip and knee muscle flexibility were observed during the intervention phases, with some loss during the withdrawal phase. Functional movement quality improved in both children. Gait velocity and participation in daily activity scores remained stable during intervention phases. Parental feedback reflected increased independence and high engagement with the home program. One child discontinued due to a heel injury, highlighting the need for individualized support. Conclusions: Personalized standing programs may improve muscle flexibility and functional movement quality in ambulatory children with MMC. Further research is warranted to determine the optimal dosing regimen, ensure safety, and assess long-term functional outcomes. Full article

As universities become increasingly open, campuses are no longer only places for study and daily life for students and faculty, but also essential spaces for public visits and cultural identity. Traditional perception evaluation methods that rely on manual surveys are limited by sample size and subjective bias, making it challenging to reveal differences in experiences between groups (students/visitors) and the complex relationships between spatial elements and perceptions. This study uses a comprehensive open university in China as a case study to address this. It proposes a research framework that combines street-view image semantic segmentation, perception survey scores, and interpretable machine learning with sample augmentation. First, full-sample modeling is used to identify key image semantic features influencing perception indicators (nature, culture, aesthetics), and then to compare how students and visitors differ in their perceptions and preferences across campus spaces. To overcome the imbalance in survey data caused by group–space interactions, the study applies the CTGAN method, which expands minority samples through conditional generation while preserving distribution authenticity, thereby improving the robustness and interpretability of the model. Based on this, attribution analysis with an interpretable decision tree algorithm further quantifies semantic features’ contribution, direction, and thresholds to perceptions, uncovering heterogeneity in perception mechanisms across groups. The results provide methodological support for perception evaluation of campus functional zones and offer data-driven, human-centered references for campus planning and design optimization. Full article

Background: Bone metastases are a common complication in patients with advanced cancer. These patients often experience a decline in physical function and autonomy, particularly in the ability to perform Activities of Daily Living, and structured movement-based interventions may represent an important supportive strategy. The aim of this study is to describe the available evidence regarding the impact of physical activity and exercise interventions on functional status and ADL performance in patients with bone metastases. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL database up to March 2025 and reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included adults (≥18 years) with confirmed bone metastases who underwent physical activity interventions designed to enhance functional status and ADLs. Studies’ methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools, selected according to study design. Results: Eleven studies were included: four randomized controlled trials, four quasi-experimental studies, one randomized feasibility trial, one cross-sectional observational study, and one case report. Despite heterogeneity in intervention type, duration, and outcome measures, most studies reported improvements in physical function, including mobility, muscle strength, walking capacity, and endurance, as well as enhanced performance in ADLs and reductions in fatigue. No serious adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Structured physical activity appears safe and may improve function and independence in patients with bone metastases. These findings support the integration of individualized exercise programs into multidisciplinary supportive care. Full article

Air pollution has become a significant concern for human health, especially in developing countries. Among Primary Pollutants, particulate matter 2.5 (${\mathrm{PM}}_{2.5}$), refers to airborne particles which have a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less, and has become a widely used measure for monitoring air quality globally. The standard go-to method usually uses Federal Reference Grade sensors to understand air quality. But, they are quite cost-prohibitive, so the popular alternative is low-cost (LC) air quality sensors. Even LC air quality monitors do not cover many areas, especially across the global south. On the other hand, the ubiquitous use of online social media OSM has led to its evolution in participatory sensing. While it does not function as a physical sensor, it can be a proxy indicator of public perception on the topic under study. OSM platforms such as Twitter/X and Reddit have already demonstrated their value in understanding human perception across various domains, including air quality monitoring. This study focuses on understanding air pollution in a resource-constrained setting by examining how the community perception on social media can complement traditional monitoring. We leverage metadata readily available from social media user data to find patterns with air quality fluctuations before and during the pandemic. We use the US Embassy ${\mathrm{PM}}_{2.5}$ data for baseline measurement. In the study, we empirically analyse the variations in quantitative & intent-based community perception in seasonal & pandemic outbreaks with varying air quality. We compare the baseline against temporal & user-specific attributes of Twitter/X relating to tweets like daily frequency of tweets, tweet lags 1–5, user followers, user verified, and user lists memberships across two timelines: pre-COVID-19 (20 March 2019– 29 February 2020) & COVID-19 (1 March 2020–20 September 2020). Our analysis examines both the quantitative and the intent-based community engagement, highlighting the significance of features like user authenticity, tweet recurrence rates, and intensity of participation. Furthermore, we show how behavioural patterns in the online discussions diverged across the two periods, which reflected the broader shifts in the air pollution levels and the public attention. This study empirically demonstrates the significance of X/Twitter metadata, beyond standard tweet content, and provides additional features for modelling and understanding air quality in developing countries. Full article

Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a precursor to dementia, with a prevalence of over 15% among community dwellers, with significant economic and social implications. Despite preserved autonomy in daily living, individuals with MCI face challenges in handling everyday technology and memory-related tasks, necessitating digital interventions, such as digital planning-based technologies to support cognitive functioning. Objective: The aim of this study is to identify and summarize available research literature on available digital planning-based technologies to support memory-related functioning in older adults with MCI. Specifically, this study seeks to (1) document the types and functions of these technologies, (2) report their effectiveness, and (3) identify gaps in the current evidence. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of four databases (Medline, Embase, APA PsycINFO, and CINAHL) was conducted in accordance with Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review methodological framework from inception to February 6, 2024, without restrictions. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed studies involving adults aged 50 or older with diagnosed cognitive impairment, specifically using digital planning-based technologies for memory support. Results: From 1854 sources, 8 studies were included. Five categories of digital planning-based technologies were identified: (1) reminders and alarms, (2) electronic calendars, (3) digital memory notebooks, (4) digital visual mapping, and (5) smart-home integration. Several studies reported improved task performance, memory recall, and executive function, with digital memory notebooks and visual mapping software showing greatest impact on functional independence. While interventions were generally well-received, usability challenges and low adherence were common, often linked to technological familiarity and motivation. Conclusions: Digital planning-based technologies show promise in supporting memory-related functioning in older adults with MCI. While studies report positive outcomes, more research is needed to refine these tools, evaluate long-term effects, and ensure integration into daily life. Expanding the evidence base will be key to improving accessibility and effectiveness for this population. Full article

(1) Background: The present study investigated the effects of extracellular vesicles (EVs), derived from adipose tissue stem cells (ADSCs) and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs), on atherosclerosis-associated cardiac hypertrophy. (2) Methodology: The experiments were performed on hamsters divided into the following groups: control (C) fed with a standard diet; hypertensive–hyperlipidemic (HH) generated by combining a diet enriched with 3% cholesterol, 15% butter, and by gavage with 8% NaCl on a daily basis; HH groups injected with EVs (ADSCs) or EVs (BMMSCs), either transfected with Smad2/3 siRNAs or not (HH-EVs (ADSCs), HH-EVs (BMMSCs), HH-EVs (ADSCs) + Smad2/3siRNA, HH-EVs (BMMSCs) + Smad2/3siRNA); and HH group injected with Smad2/3 siRNAs (HH-Smad2/3siRNA). (3) Results: In comparison with the HH group, the findings demonstrated that treatment using EVs (ADSCs or BMMSCs), either with or without Smad2/3 siRNAs, resulted in several significant improvements in the following aspects: the plasma levels of cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, TGF-β1, and Ang II were decreased; the left ventricular structure and function were recovered; inflammatory markers, ROS, COL1A, α-SMA, Cx43, MIF, ANF, and M1/M2 macrophages, were reduced; the level of key protein NF-κB p50 was diminished. (4) Conclusions: These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell-derived EVs in atherosclerosis-associated cardiac hypertrophy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Achondroplasia is the most common skeletal dysplasia, affecting 1 in 25,000 births. Limited research exists on the assessment of functional independence using standardized tools in children and adolescents with achondroplasia. The WeeFIM scale provides a comprehensive evaluation of daily living skills across multiple functional domains. This study aimed to assess the functional independence levels in children and adolescents with achondroplasia using WeeFIM and analyze functional capabilities. Methods: This multicenter cross-sectional study included 46 participants aged 6–18 years with confirmed achondroplasia. Data were collected through standardized WeeFIM assessments from medical centers and online surveys (2021–2024). WeeFIM evaluates 18 functional items across 3 domains: self-care (8 items), mobility (5 items), and cognition (5 items), scored 1–7 (complete dependence to independence). Results: Participants included 26 males (56.5%) and 20 females (43.5%). Most (78.3%) were diagnosed during infancy. The mean functional scores were highest for cognition (34.0/35, 97.1%), followed by self-care (51.2/56, 91.4%) and mobility (31.5/35, 90.0%). Most participants achieved near-complete independence in cognitive functions. Mobility tasks, particularly stair climbing and bathtub transfers, showed the greatest challenges. Functional independence increased with age, with significant improvements during early childhood to adolescence transition. Conclusions: Children and adolescents with achondroplasia demonstrate high functional independence across daily activities, with cognitive abilities largely unaffected. Although specific mobility challenges exist, most participants achieve independence with appropriate accommodations. These findings provide valuable baseline data for clinical care planning and support optimistic functional outcomes for pediatric patients with achondroplasia. Full article

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a combined rehabilitative program integrating Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) and Occupational Therapy in improving upper limb function and autonomy in individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABIs), including stroke and traumatic brain injury. Methods: Twelve patients (mean age of 56.4 years) underwent a six-week intervention combining GMI and Occupational Therapy. Outcome measures included the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH), Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), Numeric Rating Scale for pain (NRS), and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Assessments were conducted at baseline, post-treatment, and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Statistically significant improvements (p < 0.05) were found in upper limb function (DASH), occupational performance and satisfaction (COPM), and physical health status (SF-12 physical component). Specific gains in hand function—particularly in writing and eating—were detected using the JTHFT. No significant changes were observed in pain perception or mental health outcomes. Conclusions: The integration of GMI with Occupational Therapy appears to be a promising and well-tolerated intervention for enhancing motor function and daily life participation in individuals with ABI. Although the small sample limits generalizability, these preliminary findings support further investigation through larger, controlled studies. Full article

(1) Background: The global increase in life expectancy has generated growing interest in strategies that support functional independence and quality of life among older adults. Functional fitness—including strength, mobility, flexibility, and aerobic endurance—is essential for preserving autonomy during aging. In this context, physical exercise, particularly High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), has gained attention for its time efficiency and physiological benefits. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effects of a group-based HIIT program on functional fitness in older adults; (2) Methods: Functional outcomes were assessed before, during, and after a 65-week intervention using standardized field tests, including measures of upper and lower body strength, flexibility, aerobic endurance, and agility. This study was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT07170579); (3) Results: Significant improvements were observed in the HIIT group across multiple domains of functional fitness compared to the control group, notably in upper body strength, lower limb flexibility, cardiorespiratory endurance, and mobility; (4) Conclusions: These results suggest that HIIT is an effective and adaptable strategy for improving functional fitness in older adults, with the potential to enhance performance in daily activities and support healthy aging in community settings. Full article

Northern Thailand experiences annual haze events with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exceeding standards, posing risks to schoolchildren. This cross-sectional study (Chiang Mai, 2024) evaluated respiratory impacts among primary school children aged 8–12 years. Daily mean PM2.5 concentrations were obtained from a single fixed-site monitoring station (36T) located within 2 km of the spirometry site. Among 93 children with acceptable spirometry, 52% exhibited restrictive, 18% obstructive, and 30% had normal function. After adjustment for BMI, males had significantly lower odds of any pulmonary abnormality than females (AOR = 0.084; 95% CI 0.017–0.417; p = 0.002). The mean FEV₁/FVC ratio was normal (86.30 ± 13.07%), whereas mean FVC, FEV₁, and PEF were significantly below predicted values, indicating a predominantly restrictive pattern. This predominance likely reflects cumulative exposure to biomass-burning related PM2.5 during the haze season, infiltration of outdoor PM2.5 into indoor environments alongside indoor sources, and the vulnerability of developing lungs in children’s factors that reduce lung volumes while largely preserving the FEV₁/FVC ratio. The exposure assessment provides pragmatic, proximity-based estimates but is limited by reliance on one station and one season, which may not capture spatial or temporal variability. These findings highlight sex-based susceptibility and support stronger air quality protections for children. Full article