Search Results (563)

Background: GSK3β is an intracellular regulatory kinase that is dysregulated in multiple tissues in Type 1 myotonic dystrophy (DM-1). Tideglusib inhibits GSK3β activity in preclinical models of DM-1 and promotes cellular maturation, normalising aberrant molecular and behavioural phenotypes. It is currently in clinical development for the treatment of paediatric and adult patients affected by congenital and juvenile-onset DM-1. Here, we summarise the development of a population pharmacokinetic model and subsequent characterisation of influential demographic and clinical factors on the systemic exposure to tideglusib. The availability of a population PK model will allow further evaluation of age-and weight-related changes in drug disposition, supporting the dose rationale and implementation of a paediatric extrapolation plan. Methods: Given the sparse pharmacokinetic sampling scheme in patients receiving tideglusib, model development was implemented in two steps. First, data from Phase I studies in healthy elderly subjects (i.e., 1832 plasma samples, n = 54) were used to describe the population pharmacokinetics of tideglusib in adults. Then, pharmacokinetic model parameter estimates obtained from healthy subjects were used as priors for the evaluation of the disposition of tideglusib in adolescent and adult DM-1 patients (51 plasma samples, n = 16), taking into account demographic and clinical baseline characteristics, as well as food intake. Secondary pharmacokinetic parameters (AUC, C_max and T_max) were derived and summarised by descriptive statistics. Results: Tideglusib pharmacokinetics was described by a two-compartment model with first-order elimination and dose-dependent bioavailability. There were no significant differences in disposition parameters between healthy subjects and DM-1 patients. Body weight was a significant covariate on clearance and volume of distribution. Median AUC_(0–12) and C_max were 1218.1 vs. 3145.7 ng/mL∙h and 513.5 vs. 1170.9 ng/mL, following once daily doses of 400 and 1000 mg tideglusib, respectively. In addition, the time of food intake post-dose or the type of meal appeared to affect the overall exposure to tideglusib. No accumulation, metabolic inhibition, or induction was observed during the treatment period. Conclusions: Even though clearance was constant over the dose range between 400 and 1000 mg, a less than proportional increase in systemic exposure appears to be caused by the dose-dependent bioavailability, which reflects the solubility properties of tideglusib. Despite large interindividual variability in the tideglusib concentration vs. time profiles, body weight was the only explanatory covariate for the observed differences. This finding suggests that the use of weight-banded or weight-normalised doses should be considered to ensure comparable exposure across the paediatric population, regardless of age or body weight. Full article

Aflatoxins (AFs), harmful secondary metabolites produced by the genus Aspergillus, particularly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, are one of the best-known potent mycotoxins, posing a significant risk to public health. The primary type, especially aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁), is a potent carcinogen associated with liver cancer, immunosuppression, and other health problems. Environmental factors such as high temperatures, humidity, and inadequate storage conditions promote the formation of aflatoxin in staple foods such as maize, peanuts, and rice. Immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, cancer, or diabetes, are at increased risk due to their reduced detoxification capacity and weakened immune defenses. Chronic exposure to AF in these populations exacerbates liver damage, infection rates, and disease progression, particularly in developing countries and moderate-income populations where food safety regulations are inadequate and reliance on contaminated staple foods is widespread. Biomarkers such as aflatoxin-albumin complexes, urinary aflatoxin M₁, and aflatoxin (AF) DNA adducts provide valuable insights but remain underutilized in resource-limited settings. Despite the globally recognized health risk posed by AF, research focused on monitoring human exposure remains limited, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. This dynamic emphasizes the need for targeted studies and interventions to address the particular risks faced by immunocompromised individuals. This review provides an up-to-date overview of AF exposure in immunocompromised populations, including individuals with cancer, hepatitis, diabetes, malnutrition, pregnant women, and the elderly. It also highlights exposure pathways, biomarkers, and biomonitoring strategies, while emphasizing the need for targeted interventions, advanced diagnostics, and policy frameworks to mitigate health risks in these vulnerable groups. Addressing these gaps is crucial to reducing the health burden and developing public health strategies in high-risk regions. Full article

This study addresses the increasing demand for texture-modified seafood products suitable for elderly consumers by focusing on dried squid, a popular protein source. The aim was to optimize the softening and drying procedures to produce a dried squid product with improved chewability and quality. Fresh squid was pretreated using sodium bicarbonate or potassium carbonate solutions (0, 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 mol/kg) and dried at 40 °C using either continuous (CD) or intermittent drying (ID) until the final moisture content reached 18.34 ± 0.44%. Hardness generally increased with higher alkaline concentrations, with the potassium carbonate-treated samples showing better softening effects. Based on standards for elderly-friendly foods targeting chewable hardness (10,000–50,000 N/m²), low water activity (<0.58), and limited color change (ΔE = 14.32), the optimal result was achieved with 0.3 mol/kg potassium carbonate and ID. Among the thin-layer drying models, the Midilli–Kucuk model showed the best fit, with the highest average R² (0.9974), and lowest SSE (0.0481) and RMSE (0.1688), effectively capturing the drying kinetics. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed smoother surfaces and consistent porosity in samples dried intermittently, indicating less structural degradation. Finite element analysis showed that ID improved internal moisture distribution, reduced surface crusting, and alleviated internal stresses. These results support mild alkaline soaking combined with ID as an effective strategy for enhancing dried squid quality for elderly individuals. Full article

The study aimed to evaluate the influence of ink composition, a blend of blueberry and banana purée with hydrocolloids such as xanthan gum and carrageenan in concentrations ranging from 1 to 4%, on various physical properties. These parameters included dry matter, water activity, density, syneresis index, and rheological and textural attributes of fruit inks. Additionally, the stability of the inks post-printing and after 60 min was examined using image analysis method. Increased hydrocolloid additives from 1 to 4% caused the increase of the viscoelastic modulus G′ and G″, force and extrusion work values extrudability of inks. The stability and fidelity of the inks were enhanced, resulting in a notable reduction in syneresis during storage. The modulus of elasticity exceeded the modulus of viscosity for all ink formulations evaluated, thereby ensuring structural stability. Notably, the formulation comprising 4% xanthan gum and 4% carrageenan exhibited the highest values in both viscoelasticity and extrudability indices, indicating superior performance characteristics within the studied parameters. The shape of the printed objects remained comparable to the designed model over time. Considering the constraints associated with the use of carrageenan, it is possible to attain a comparable effect by utilising reduced concentrations of hydrocolloids. For instance, formulations incorporating 3% xanthan gum in tandem with either 3% carrageenan or 2% carrageenan can achieve similar functionalities. The 3D printing of fruit purées, including blueberries and bananas, represents a significant innovation in personalising food products in terms of consistency. This is particularly relevant for individuals with dysphagia, children, and the elderly. Full article

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to assess if vortex formation time (VFT) as a measurement of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function is affected by food intake and related to age and sex. Methods: Healthy participants were divided into two age groups: younger (median age: 25 years) and older (median age: 68 years). Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) examinations were performed during fasting as well as 30 min after a standardized meal. Measurements of the TTE images were performed off-line for the calculation of VFT. Results: There were no differences in VFT between men and women regardless of age. There was a significant increase in VFT from a median value of 2.0 (1.5–2.5) to a median value of 2.3 (1.5–2.0) after food intake in the older study group (p < 0.001). This was not observed in the younger study group, which had a median value of VFT of 2.5 (2.1–3.0) before food intake and a median value of VFT of 2.5 (2.2–3.1) after food intake (p = 0.369). Furthermore, VFT was significantly higher in the younger study group, i.e., 2.5 (2.1–3.0), compared to the older study group, i.e., 2.0 (1.5–2.5), before food intake (p = 0.011), but not after food intake, with a median value of VFT in the younger group of 2.5 (2.2–3.1) and the older group of 2.3 (1.5–2.9) (p = 0.172). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that VFT is affected by age, not by sex. Moreover, VFT is affected by food intake only in elderly subjects. Full article

Lower respiratory infections predominantly affect children under five and the elderly, with influenza viruses and respiratory syncytial viruses (including SARS-CoV-2) being the most common pathogens. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant global public health challenges. While vaccination remains crucial, its efficacy is limited, highlighting the need for complementary approaches to mitigate immune hyperactivation in severe COVID-19 cases. Medicinal plants like Cannabis sativa show therapeutic potential, with over 85% of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients in China receiving traditional herbal treatments. This review explores the antiviral applications of cannabis and its bioactive compounds, particularly against SARS-CoV-2, while evaluating their pharmacological and food industry potential. Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and fatty acids. Cannabinoids may block viral entry, modulate immune responses (e.g., suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines via CB2/PPARγ activation), and alleviate COVID-19-related psychological stress. There are several challenges with pharmacological and food applications of cannabinoids, including clinical validation of cannabinoids for COVID-19 treatment and optimizing cannabinoid solubility/bioavailability for functional foods. However, rising demand for health-focused products presents market opportunities. Genetic engineering to enhance cannabinoid yields and integrated pharmacological studies are needed to unlock cannabis’s full potential in drug discovery and nutraceuticals. Cannabis-derived compounds hold promise for antiviral therapies and functional ingredients, though further research is essential to ensure safety and efficacy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Multidisciplinary approaches spanning the physical, cognitive, and social domains of geriatric evaluation are essential to promote functional well-being and reduce the aversive consequences of aging. The main objective of the pilot study, “Multidomain Interventions to improve the COgnitive and fUNctional well-being of elderly individuals in residential sTructures” (I-COUNT), is to assess the feasibility of a 6-month multidomain intervention performed on older adults in Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs), compared with a group of residents following a traditional care approach. Methods: The intervention will involve two LTCFs in Italy and will include physical exercise and cognitive training, administered and monitored using wearable technologies, a nutritional program based on the Mediterranean diet enriched with selected functional foods, and the administration of the vaccinations recommended in the national vaccination plan. The I-COUNT study will assess the feasibility and acceptability of the defined protocol and provide information to determine the sample size for a definitive study. In relation to the potential health impact of multidomain interventions on older people living in LTCFs, the primary outcome will consider the change in microbiota composition assessed 3 months after the start of interventions, while secondary outcomes will include the evaluation of changes in selected biomarkers, physical performance, psychological health, cognitive functioning, and nutritional status at 6- and 9-month follow-up points. Conclusions: The I-COUNT study will allow us to assess the feasibility of delivering a multidomain intervention on elderly people. Exploratory findings on potential health effect will support the development of a larger-scale randomized controlled trial. Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT06820710. Full article

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide, particularly affecting the elderly. Tertiary prevention—focused on nutrition and lifestyle—may play an important role in improving treatment outcomes and quality of life. This exploratory study aimed to describe dietary and lifestyle behaviors among CRC patients, considering age, body mass index (BMI), and educational background as potential differentiating factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 202 CRC patients using a validated paper-based questionnaire. Sociodemographic data and health behaviors were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results: Age-related differences revealed that middle-aged patients consumed vegetables and legumes more frequently but also reported higher fast-food intake. Elderly individuals more often abstained from alcohol and tobacco. Overweight and obese participants were more likely to consume meat and sweets regularly and preferred frying over other cooking methods. Higher education was associated with lower rates of smoking and alcohol use. Conclusions: The findings suggest that dietary and lifestyle profiles among CRC patients may vary by age, BMI, and education. While causal relationships cannot be established, the results may help generate hypotheses for future research and support the development of individualized tertiary prevention strategies. Full article

Background: The rationale for strict fluid fasting for pediatric and adult patients has been questioned recently. Point-of-care tools for the evaluation of gastric content have evolved over time, often using gastric ultrasound. Usually, the gastric antral cross-sectional area (CSA) is determined. A liberal fluid fasting regimen, that is, ingestion of liquid fluids until the call for theatre, does not delay gastric emptying compared to midnight fasting, as evaluated with gastric ultrasound. Anesthesia is safe, and no adverse events result from a liberal regimen. Methods: The ethics committee of LMU Munich approved the study (21-0903). Liberal fluid fasting in a geriatric orthopedic surgery department (LFFgertrud) is a sub-study within a project investigating perioperative neurocognitive disorders (Study Registration: DRKS00026801). After obtaining informed consent from 134 geriatric patients 70 years or older, we investigated the gastric antral cross-sectional area (CSA) prior to and postimplementation of liberal fluid management, respectively. Results: After the implementation of liberal fluid fasting, fasting times for solid food and liquids decreased from 8.8 (±5.5) to 1.8 (±1.8) hours (p < 0.0001). In 39 patients where CSA was obtained, a slight increase in fluid was encountered. No critical amount of gastric content was observed, and no adverse events occurred. Conclusions: A liberal fluid fasting concept was safe even for comorbid elderly patients in orthopedic surgery. Applying a gastric ultrasound may be helpful to increase safety. According to the incidence of complications encountered in our study, it seems indispensable. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nutraceuticals containing milk fat globule membranes (MFGMs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are purported to abate age-related metabolic dysfunction due to their richness in milk sphingolipids. As such, nutraceuticals offer a compelling strategy to improve metabolic health through dietary means, especially for elderly persons who are unable to adhere to common therapeutic interventions. To address this, we examined the effects of supplementing aged sedentary rats with an MFGM/EV-rich concentrate. Methods/Results: In a 25-week study, 89-week-old male rats received either a milk sphingolipid-rich MFGM/EV concentrate or a control supplement. Analysis of metabolic health using a battery of tests, including MS^ALL lipidomics of plasma, liver, and other peripheral tissues, revealed that MFGM/EV supplementation promotes accretion of unique sphingolipid signatures, ameliorates ceramide biomarkers predictive of cardiovascular death, and has a general lipid-lowering effect. At the functional level, we find that these health-promoting effects are linked to increased lipoprotein particle turnover, showcased by reduced levels of triglyceride-rich particles, as well as a metabolically healthier liver, assessed using whole-body lipidomic flux analysis. Conclusions: Altogether, our work unveils that MFGM/EV-containing food holds a potential for ameliorating age-related metabolic dysfunction in elderly individuals. Full article

Background/Objectives: Understanding the impact of dietary habits in terms of obesity, health outcomes, and functional decline is critical in Europe’s growing elderly population. This study analyzed trends in Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence, obesity prevalence, and grip strength among middle-aged and elderly Europeans using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Methods: Data from four SHARE waves (2015–2022) across 28 countries were analyzed. Dietary patterns were assessed through food frequency questionnaires classifying participants as MD-adherent or non-adherent where adherent implies daily consumption of fruits and vegetables and occasional (3–6 times/week) intake of eggs, beans, legumes, meat, fish, or poultry (an unvalidated definition of the MD pattern). Handgrip strength, a biomarker of functional capacity, was categorized into low, medium, and high groups. Body mass index (BMI), self-perceived health (SPHUS), chronic disease prevalence, and CASP-12 scores (control, autonomy, self-realization, and pleasure evaluated on the 12-item version) were also evaluated. Statistical analyses included descriptive methods, logistic regressions, and multiple imputations to address missing data. Results: A significant majority (74–77%) consumed fruits and vegetables daily, which is consistent with MD principles; however, the high daily intake of dairy products (>50%) indicates limited adherence to the MD, which advocates for moderate consumption of dairy products. Logistic regression indicated that individuals with two or more chronic diseases were more likely to follow the MD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.21, confidence interval [CI] = 1.11–1.32), as were those individuals who rated their SPHUS as very good/excellent ([OR] = 1.42, [CI] = 1.20–1.69). Medium and high maximal handgrip were also strongly and consistently associated with higher odds of MD adherence (Medium: [OR] = 1.44, [CI] = 1.18–1.74; High: [OR] = 1.27, [CI] = 1.10–1.48). Conclusions: The findings suggest that middle-aged and older adults are more likely to adhere to the MD dietary pattern if they have more than two chronic diseases, are physically active, and have a medium or high handgrip. Although an unvalidated definition of the MD dietary pattern was used, the results highlight the importance of implementing targeted dietary strategies for middle-aged and elderly adults. Full article

Healthy food service guidelines (HFSG) comprise food, nutrition, behavioral design, and other standards to guide the purchasing, preparation, and offering of foods and beverages in worksites and institutional food service. To date, there have been few attempts to synthesize evidence for HFSG effectiveness in non-K-12 or early childhood education sectors, particularly at worksites and institutional food services. We conducted a scoping review to achieve the following: (1) characterize the existing literature on the effectiveness of HFSG for improving the institution’s food environment, financial outcomes, and consumers’ diet quality and health, and (2) identify gaps in the literature. The initial search in PubMed and Web of Science retrieved 10,358 articles; after screening and snowball searching, 68 articles were included for analysis. Studies varied in terms of HFSG implementation settings, venues, and outcomes in both U.S. (n = 34) and non-U.S. (n = 34) contexts. The majority of HFSG interventions occurred in venues where food is sold (e.g., worksite cafeterias, vending machines). A diversity of HFSG terminology and measurement tools demonstrates the literature’s breadth. Literature gaps include quasi-experimental study designs, as well as interventions in settings that serve dependent populations (e.g., universities, elderly feeding programs, and prisons). Full article

Japan’s 8.5 million vacant homes (Akiyas) represent a paradox of scarcity amid surplus: while rural depopulation leaves properties abandoned, housing shortages and bureaucratic inefficiencies hinder their reuse. This study proposes AKI2ALL, an AI-blockchain framework designed to automate the circular repurposing of Akiyas into ten high-value community assets—guesthouses, co-working spaces, pop-up retail and logistics hubs, urban farming hubs, disaster relief housing, parking lots, elderly daycare centers, exhibition spaces, places for food and beverages, and company offices—through smart contracts and data-driven workflows. By integrating circular economy principles with decentralized technology, AKI2ALL streamlines property transitions, tax validation, and administrative processes, reducing operational costs while preserving embodied carbon in existing structures. Municipalities list properties, owners select uses, and AI optimizes assignments based on real-time demand. This work bridges gaps in digital construction governance, proving that automating trust and accountability can transform systemic inefficiencies into opportunities for community-led, low-carbon regeneration, highlighting its potential as a scalable model for global vacant property reuse. Full article

The high glycemic index (GI) of polished white rice (WR) presents challenges for blood glucose control in diabetes. This study investigated the in vitro digestibility of a whole grain blend (WGB, composed of black, red, and brown rice) and its effects on the gut microbiota in elderly diabetic individuals. WGB exhibited lower starch digestibility (69.76 ± 5.71% vs. 73.02 ± 6.16%) and a reduced estimated glycemic index (eGI, 73.43 ± 4.49 vs. 77.55 ± 2.64) than WR, likely due to its higher amylose content. WGB fermentation increased Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillaceae, reduced pro-inflammatory Bacteroides fragilis and Enterocloster bolteae, and released more arabinose and xylose. Additionally, WGB yielded higher isobutyrate, while WR contained more glucose and fructose in its structure, leading to increased acetate production and a more acidic environment. Functional analysis revealed that WGB upregulated pathways related to fatty acid elongation and fiber fermentation. These findings suggest WGB as a viable staple food alternative for diabetic patients, offering dual benefits in glycemic control and gut microbiota. Full article

Background: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are among the most commonly prescribed antidepressants and are generally considered safe. However, emerging data suggest a potential association with intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), especially among elderly patients and those on anticoagulation. Methods: We conducted a retrospective pharmacovigilance analysis using data from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Reports up to May 2025 listing an SSRI (sertraline, fluoxetine, paroxetine, escitalopram, citalopram, or fluvoxamine) as a suspect or interacting drug and involving an ICH event were included. Disproportionality was assessed using reporting odds ratios (RORs) with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Among 226 eligible ICH cases, sertraline (30.5%), paroxetine (28.8%), and fluoxetine (27.9%) were most frequently implicated. Sertraline showed a strong signal for cerebral hemorrhage (ROR = 4.97), while fluoxetine was associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage (ROR = 4.51). Sertraline had a pronounced signal among patients aged >60 years (ROR = 7.92) and in combination with anticoagulants (ROR = 9.56). Fluoxetine was underrepresented in elderly cases. Given the very small number of fluvoxamine-related cases (n = 2), interpretation should be cautious due to limited statistical power. Gender-stratified analyses showed female predominance in sertraline-related ICH and male predominance for paroxetine. Citalopram demonstrated a potentially protective profile with inverse association with cerebral hemorrhage. Conclusions: This study highlights significant differences in ICH reporting patterns across SSRIs, modified by patient age, gender, and co-medication. These findings underscore the need for individualized SSRI prescribing, particularly in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy particularly in elderly patients and those receiving anticoagulant therapy, where sertraline and fluoxetine may pose increased risk. Full article