Search Results (79)

With the global aging population on the rise, identifying environmental factors that modulate immunosenescence is critical for health interventions. While urban green spaces are known to confer health benefits, the long-term effects of forest exposure on immunosenescence remain unclear. This study investigated the differential impacts of urban forest versus urban environments on immunosenescence using a D-galactose-induced murine model. Mice were assigned to urban or forest environments for 8 weeks, with serum cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ), T-cell subsets, and organ indices analyzed. Forest environments exhibited significantly higher humidity and negative air ion concentrations alongside lower noise levels compared to urban settings. Aged forest-exposed mice showed attenuated immunosenescence markers, including significantly lower IL-6 levels (p < 0.01) and improved thymic indices, suggesting urban forest environments may mitigate immune decline. These findings highlight the potential of urban forests in promoting healthy aging, advocating for their integration into urban planning. Further human studies are warranted to translate these findings into public health strategies. Full article

Wound healing involves complex interplay between cellular and molecular events. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of the bovine amniotic membrane (BAM) in wound healing using a mouse model. Twelve male C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups: negative control (Vehicle), positive control (DuoDERM Extra Thin^®), amniotic membrane attachment (Amniotic Membrane), and compressed amniotic membrane attachment (Amniotic Membrane with Compression). The dorsal skin of each mouse was excised and wound-healing parameters were assessed over a two-week period. Our results revealed that the Amniotic Membrane and Amniotic Membrane with Compression groups demonstrated significant sustained reductions in the wound area compared to the Vehicle group. These reductions were more pronounced than those observed in the DuoDERM group. Histopathological analysis revealed advanced wound healing characteristics in the BAM-treated groups. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated elevated expression levels of wound healing markers (including α-smooth muscle actin, collagen type III, SMAD 1/5/8, and SMAD 2/3) in the BAM-treated groups compared to the control and DuoDERM groups. Conversely, cluster of differentiation 4 levels were significantly lower in BAM-treated groups. Overall, our findings highlight the therapeutic efficacy of BAM and compression in promoting wound healing. Thus, BAM offers a promising therapeutic approach for enhancing wound healing outcomes in clinical settings, potentially by modulating key wound healing pathways and processes. Full article

Purpose: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of different models of commercially available portable dental radiometers on the measurement of light irradiance emitted by light-emitting diode (LED) photocuring units. Materials and Methods: Eight LED photocuring units, all emitting light in a single-wavelength spectrum, were tested. Light irradiance (mW/cm²) was measured using six portable dental radiometers: four digital models (D1–D4) and two analog models (A1, A2). Digital model D1 was used as the reference (control). All measurements were conducted under standardized conditions, and each LED–radiometer combination was tested in triplicate. Data were analyzed using Sigma Plot 12.0 (Palo Alto, CA, USA) to verify the assumptions of normality and homogeneity of variances. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess the effect of the radiometer model on irradiance values, followed by Tukey’s post hoc test for multiple comparisons. The significance level was set at α < 0.05. Results: No statistically significant difference in irradiance was found between D1 (control) and D2. However, significantly lower values were recorded with A2, while D3, D4, and A1 produced significantly higher irradiance values compared to the control (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Irradiance measurements can vary significantly depending on the radiometer model used. Clinicians should be aware of this variability and are encouraged to regularly check the irradiance of the light-curing units used in daily practice, ensure their proper maintenance, and implement periodic monitoring to maintain effective clinical performance. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cognitive deficiency associated with chronic alcohol consumption in older people remains an under-investigated public health issue in Romania, particularly concerning rural–urban disparities and the impact of reversible hepatic dysfunction on cognitive performance. To evaluate cognitive function at hospital admission and discharge using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE); to identify rural–urban disparities; and to analyze the relationship between hepatic markers and MMSE scores in older people with chronic alcohol consumption. Methods: This retrospective, single-center observational study was conducted on 152 patients aged ≥55 years, hospitalized between January 2021 and December 2023 at the “Elisabeta Doamna” Psychiatric Hospital, Galați. Demographic variables, MMSE scores (at admission and discharge), and hepatic parameters (AST, ALT, GGT, total bilirubin, and ammonia) were collected. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests for categorical variables, paired t-tests or ANOVA for MMSE scores, and Pearson correlations between MMSE and hepatic markers (α = 0.05). Results: At admission, 94% of patients had an MMSE score < 24. The mean MMSE score increased from 23.4 ± 4.1 to 25.0 ± 3.7 at discharge (Δ = +1.6; p < 0.001). Patients from rural areas (63.8% of the sample) had significantly lower MMSE scores at admission compared to urban patients (22.6 ± 3.9 vs. 24.8 ± 4.2; p = 0.02). However, no statistically significant difference was observed between rural and urban patients regarding cognitive improvement during hospitalization (p = 0.88), indicating that the initial gap persisted at discharge. GGT levels were inversely correlated with MMSE scores (r = −0.41; p < 0.001), suggesting a contribution of hepatic dysfunction to cognitive decline. Conclusions: Alcohol-related cognitive impairment is highly prevalent among older patients hospitalized for withdrawal, with partial reversibility observed through inpatient management. The observed rural disparities and the association between hepatic dysfunction and cognitive performance highlight the need of concurrent MMSE and hepatic screening, with prioritized interventions in rural settings. Prospective, multicenter studies are warranted to validate these findings and to identify additional prognostic biomarkers. Full article

This study involves 32 adults with upper cross syndrome (UCS). The experimental group was asked to perform scapular stabilization accompanied by breathing training (SBG). The comparison group was asked to perform scapular stabilization accompanied by thoracic exercises (STG). After four weeks of exercise, changes in the pressure pain threshold (PPT), respiration function, and lower chest expansion (LCE) were measured again. Methods: A two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to investigate the interaction between the measurement period and measurement group, as well as the intra-group effect throughout the measurement period. The statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05. Bonferroni post hoc corrections were used to analyze the intra-group differences before and after the effect of the interventions (α = 0.025). Results: A significant difference in within-group effect validation was found when comparing the time of change between the two groups before and after the intervention. There was no significant difference in the interaction effect depending on the time and group (p > 0.025). Conclusions: Scapular stabilization combined with breathing training or thoracic exercises effectively reduces pain and improves respiratory function in upper cross syndrome. Full article

Sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity (SO) represent significant age-related muscular disorders. Their specific biomarkers and pathophysiological mechanisms remain insufficiently elucidated. This study aims to identify differential and shared biomarkers between these conditions to reveal distinct pathophysiological processes, providing a foundation for precision diagnostics and targeted interventions. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies examining biomarkers related to sarcopenia and SO in adults aged 45 and older. Electronic and manual searches were performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase up to December 2024. The quality of each study was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Quality Assessment Tool. Meta-analysis was performed when at least three studies investigated the same biomarkers in frailty and sarcopenia, calculating the pooled effect size based on the standard mean difference using a random effects model. In total, 80 studies (64 on sarcopenia and 16 on SO) were included, encompassing 36,680 older adults (aged 45 and above) from 16 countries with varying levels of development. Participants were categorized based on their setting, age, and gender distribution. Sarcopenia is characterized by lower serum triglycerides and stable HDL/LDL ratios, while SO presents with higher triglycerides and disrupted cholesterol correlation, indicating distinct metabolic interactions. Analysis of inflammatory profiles revealed significantly elevated CRP levels in SO, with WBC as a specific marker, while TNF-α was associated with sarcopenia, suggesting a subtype-specific role of chronic inflammation. Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in both conditions and may represent a potential therapeutic target. Subgroup analyses indicated an increased risk of muscle function decline in high-risk communities in developing regions, underscoring the urgent need for early intervention. A set of shared metabolic, hematologic, and inflammatory biomarkers was identified in sarcopenia and SO. These findings address a knowledge gap in biomarker research and highlight the distinct mechanisms involved in the development of both conditions. Developing biomarker-based diagnostic algorithms is essential for optimizing personalized treatment. Subgroup analyses have also identified high-risk populations, underscoring the need for early intervention. Full article

Bud paradormancy has been widely studied in perennial deciduous woody species, but little attention has been paid to paradormancy set and release in perennial evergreen tree species. Here, shoot bud paradormancy in Camellia sinensis cv. Huangdan was studied by untargeted metabolomics. We found that after removing the axillary floral buds for one day, the paradormancy of the axillary shoot buds was released. The paradormant shoot buds had lower glucose-1-phosphate, fructose, and D-(-)-tagatofuranose content but higher trehalose, raffinose, galactinol, and α-D-xylopyranose content. Meanwhile, high levels of asparagine were accumulated. Flavonoids were differentially accumulated, and higher levels of three flavone glycosides (C-diglucosylapigenin, apigenin 6-C-glucoside 8-C-arabinoside, and prunin) and four proanthocyanidins (Procyanidin trimer isomer 1, Galloylprocyanidin dimer, Procyanidin trimer isomer 3, and Galloylated trimeric proanthocyanidin) were accumulated in paradormant shoot buds. During the paradormancy-to-growth transition, all these metabolites were reversed. These data suggest that the reconfiguration of carbon, nitrogen, and flavonoid metabolism could be an important aspect for the paradormancy set and release of tea axillary shoot buds. This study provided novel insights into shoot bud paradormancy set and release in a perennial evergreen tree species. Full article

The current study examined the structure and psychometric characteristics of the Portuguese version of the Climate Change Anxiety Scale (CAS), exploring the climate change anxiety and environmental action mediator effects on the relationship between connection to nature and well-being, and whether self-compassion and receiving compassion from others would moderate these associations. The sample was composed of 522 participants from the general population who completed a set of self-report measures through an online survey. Exploratory factor analysis results of the CAS extracted four factors, and a confirmatory factor analysis revealed an acceptable fit of this structure to the data (χ2 (164) = 328.67; p < 0.001, CMIN/DF = 2.004; CFI = 0.94; TLI = 0.93; RMSEA = 0.06 [90% CI 0.05–0.07; p < 0.001]). The CAS demonstrated good internal consistency (α = 0.92) and convergent, concurrent, and divergent validities. Two moderated mediation models showed a significant direct effect of connection to nature on well-being, and self-compassion and compassion from others significantly moderating this relationship. Furthermore, in both models, climate change anxiety and environmental action significantly mediate the association between connection to nature and well-being. Overall, connection with nature seems to enhance well-being in lower and medium levels of self-compassion and from others but may increase climate change anxiety in all compassion levels, reinforcing the importance of promoting nature-based interventions combined with compassion-focused programs to foster well-being. Full article

Background/Objectives: Trefoil factor protein 3 (Tff3) is a small peptide known as an epithelial tissue-protective protein, and it is also identified as a novel participant in complex metabolic processes. In numerous mouse models of obesity, Tff3 has been found to be downregulated in the liver and its overexpression is associated with an improvement in metabolic parameters. These mouse models with metabolic phenotypes have a multigenic background, with numerous genes contributing to their phenotype. To elucidate the role of Tff3 protein in metabolic events, we developed a mouse model with Tff3 deficiency on a C57Bl6N background without other intrinsic mutations affecting metabolism. Methods: We investigated the effects of a high-fat diet (9 weeks) on the liver of Tff3 protein-deficient mice of both sexes and the corresponding wild type. We investigated the general metabolic status of the animals and analysed the expression of markers of relevant pathophysiological pathways in the liver. Results:Tff3-deficient mice had significantly lower body weight. They also had a comparable total liver fat content but it was distributed in small vesicles, indicating the protective effect of Tff3 deficiency. The results of molecular analysis showed no major gene expression changes in inflammation-, ER- and oxidative stress-, and lipid metabolism-related genes. Tff3^−/− males had reduced expression of Il1α and Cxcr7 genes in the liver and no global proteome changes; Tff3-deficient females had decreased expression of Irs2 and Atf4 genes and total proteome comparison showed decreased levels of proteins related to ribosome biosynthesis and the inhibition of acetylation. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that Tff3 deficiency reduces lipid accumulation in the liver and we set the direction for further studies aimed at uncovering the exact molecular mechanisms in other organs. Furthermore, it emphasises the need to include both sexes in future research, as the observed phenotype differs significantly depending on sex. Full article

Background and Objective: Probiotics have been shown to be effective in controlling various adverse health conditions such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and neurological diseases. However, to our knowledge, there is no research on the preventive effect of probiotics on heart damage caused by infections. This study examined the preventive benefits of probiotics against sepsis-related heart injury using a rat model caused by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Materials and Methods: Four groups of twenty-four male Wistar albino rats, each with six rats, were set up. For 14 days, Group 1 (Sham Group) was given oral normal saline, intraperitoneal Escherichia coli O111-B4 lipopolysaccharide (LPS Group) was given to Group 2, and oral probiotics were given to Group 3 (Probiotic Group). Escherichia coli O111-B4 lipopolysaccharide was injected intraperitoneally after Group 4 (Probiotic + LPS) received oral probiotics containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 (10⁹ CFU/day). Blood samples were taken twenty-four hours following the administration of LPS. The animals were then euthanized by cervical dislocation, and samples of cardiac tissue were taken in order to assess any damage to the heart. The following serum values were measured: C-reactive protein (CRP), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), cardiac troponin subunit I (cTn-I), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). The TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), Total Oxidant Status (TOS), Total Antioxidant Status (TAS), Oxidative Stress Index (OSI), CRP, CK-MB, and cTn-I levels were assessed in tissue samples. Additionally, staining techniques were used to analyze histopathological alterations in tissues. Results: With the exception of serum IL-6 (p = 0.111), tissue and serum cytokine levels were considerably greater in the sepsis group (Group 2) than in the other groups (p < 0.05 to <0.001). The TAS, GSH, and SOD levels were significantly lower (p < 0.05 to <0.001) in septic rats, although the tissue levels of TOS, OSI, and MDA were significantly higher. With the exception of serum CRP in Group 3 (p = 0.328), the CK-MB, CRP, and cTn-I levels were considerably higher in Group 2 than in the other groups (p < 0.01 to <0.001). When compared to the other groups, histopathological examination showed significant alterations in the LPS group. Conclusions: Probiotics showed positive effects on oxidative stress markers and dramatically decreased sepsis-induced cardiac damage in the LPS-induced sepsis model. These results imply that probiotics could be used as a therapeutic approach to lessen the cardiac damage brought on by sepsis. Full article

Mechanically ventilated (MV) patients often develop ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) with increased mortality risk, especially in VAP caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms. We evaluated MV patients and monitored VAP presentation, microbiologically confirmed. The patients underwent bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and blind bronchial aspiration (AC) at baseline. Systematic bronchial secretion and radiologic assessments were performed daily. The patients were classified as MDR-VAP, non-MDR-VAP, or non-VAP. The APACHE II and SOFA scores, microbiology, inflammatory markers, respiratory system characteristics, and ventilator settings were evaluated. BAL and AC were assessed for total protein levels, cellular number and profile, and IL-1β and TNF-α levels. Of the VAP patients, 46.1% presented with MDR-VAP due to Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, or Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and 53.8%—with non-MDR-VAP. The VAP patients had higher APACHE II scores and airway pressure but a lower baseline PO₂/FIO₂ compared to the non-VAP patients, while PO₂/FIO₂ was increased in MDR-VAP compared to non-MDR-VAP. BAL protein, IL-1β, and cellular levels were increased in VAP vs. non-VAP and in non-MDR-VAP compared to MDR-VAP. Macrophages and polymorphonuclears were 34.36% and 23.76% in VAP, statistically significant increased compared to non-VAP. Their percentages were also increased in non-MDR-VAP compared to MDR-VAP. These differences imply a different immunological profile in non-MDR-VAP patients. In conclusion, MDR-VAP patients may present significant differences in baseline clinical characteristics and molecular biomarkers, which may help in prompt diagnosis and an improved therapeutic approach. Full article

Objective: Our objective was to investigate the biomechanical and neuromuscular adaptations of the lower limbs during the landing phase of running under fatigue conditions. Methods: A controlled fatigue protocol was used to induce running-related fatigue in participants. Data were collected using a three-dimensional motion capture system, force platform analysis, and surface electromyography (sEMG). Kinematic variables, such as hip, knee, and ankle joint angles and range of motion, were analyzed alongside kinetic parameters, including vertical ground reaction forces (vGRFs) and joint moments. sEMG was used to measure the muscle activation levels of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius, and to calculate antagonist coactivation ratios. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the differences in pre- and post-fatigue using paired t-tests, with a significance level set at α = 0.05, and FDR correction was applied to control for multiple comparisons. Results: Post-fatigue, hip and knee flexion angles at initial contact decreased by 4.5% and 4.8%, respectively (FDR-adjusted p = 0.023, 0.0157), while their range of motion increased significantly by 10.4% and 11.1% (FDR-adjusted p = 0.0115, 0.0063). The second vGRF peak increased by 2.1% post-fatigue (FDR-adjusted p = 0.0086), with no significant changes in the first vGRF peak (p > 0.05). Muscle activation levels significantly increased in the rectus femoris (10.7%), biceps femoris (8.3%), tibialis anterior (9.1%), and gastrocnemius (10.2%) (FDR-adjusted p < 0.05). The antagonist coactivation ratio significantly decreased in the early and late landing phases (FDR-adjusted p = 0.0033, 0.0057), reflecting neuromuscular adjustments to fatigue. Conclusions: Fatigue-induced adaptations in joint kinematics, muscle activation, and coactivation strategies optimize performance and stability but may increase mechanical stress on lower-limb joints, highlighting a need for targeted interventions to mitigate injury risk. Full article

This study used largemouth bass (initial average weight: 33.33 ± 1.8 g) to explore the effects of adding different brown algae extracts to feed on the fish’s growth, immunity and intestinal health. Six groups were set up: a control (Group A), 0.1% sodium alginate (Group B), 0.1% oligotriosaccharide I (Group C), 0.1% oligotriosaccharide II (Group D), 0.2% brown algae powder (Group E) and 0.2% brown algae powder enzymatic product (Group F), with three replicates of 35 fish each, and a 56-day feeding experiment. Results: Compared to Group A, Groups C, D and F had a higher specific growth rate and lower feed coefficient (p < 0.05). Group D had enhanced serum SOD activity; Group F had increased antioxidant enzyme activity and decreased MDA content (p < 0.05). All experimental groups had higher serum LZM levels (p < 0.05), with no IgM difference (p > 0.05). In the intestine, treatment groups had higher α-amylase activity (p < 0.05) and no lipase difference (p > 0.05), and Groups C, D and F had higher trypsin activity (p < 0.05). Group F had the tallest villi, Group B had the thickest muscular layer (p < 0.05), and villus width was similar among groups (p > 0.05). The experimental groups had fewer intestinal pathogenic bacteria, and Group F had improved intestinal microorganism diversity and richness (p < 0.05). In conclusion, adding 0.1% oligotriosaccharide and 0.2% brown algae powder enzymatic product to feed can promote largemouth bass growth, antioxidant capacity and immunity. The 0.2% brown algae powder enzymatic product is better for intestinal development and flora improvement. Full article

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is driven by complex molecular mechanisms involving inflammatory cytokines and immune pathways. According to recent research, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), which are typically prescribed to treat depressive disorders, have strong anti-inflammatory effects. TCAs, including imipramine and amitriptyline, alter inflammatory signaling cascades, which include lowering the levels pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and inhibiting NF-κB activation. By inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome and suppressing pathways including JAK/STAT, MAPK, and PI3K, these effects are produced, improving endothelial function and reducing oxidative stress. The intricacy of TCAs’ anti-inflammatory actions has demonstrated by the existence of contradictory findings about how they alter IL-6 levels. The dependence of the heterogeneity of the reaction on the use of particular TCAs and experimental settings is shown by the fact that some studies show reduced IL-6 production, while others indicate increases or no changes. This review explores the multifaceted mechanisms through which TCAs modulate inflammatory pathways. TCAs inhibit NF-κB activation, reduce oxidative stress, and suppress the production of key inflammatory mediators, including IL-6 and TNF-α. They also regulate Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling and NOD-, LRR-, and NLR family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation, reducing the release of IL-1β and IL-18, critical drivers of endothelial dysfunction and plaque instability. Given their capacity to target critical inflammatory molecules and pathways, TCAs provide great potential in the therapy of atherosclerosis, particularly for individuals with associated depression and cardiovascular risk factors. Nevertheless, further research is essential to clarify the precise molecular mechanisms, resolve inconsistencies in current findings, and establish the clinical applicability of TCAs as anti-inflammatory agents in atherosclerosis management. Full article

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a highly drug-resistant pathogen known to impair wound healing and provoke inflammatory responses, potentially leading to immune dysregulation. This study aimed to systematically investigate the immune response mechanisms mediated by cytokines following P. aeruginosa infection through the development of a standardized wound model. Kunming mice were selected as experimental subjects and given 8 mm diameter lesions on their backs and inoculated with standard strains PAO1 and PA14. The key parameters assessed included changes in body weight, wound redness and swelling, bacterial dynamics, protein content in wound tissues, immune responses, and pathological alterations. The results demonstrated that pathogen invasion significantly inhibited wound healing, with healing rates in the infected groups (87.5 ± 6.3% and 77.1 ± 3.6%) being notably lower than those in the uninfected control group. P. aeruginosa persisted in the wounds for up to 12 days, with bacterial loads decreasing from 8 log to 2 log. Additionally, there was a marked reduction in the protein content of the wound tissue and an increase in the expression levels of inflammatory factors such as IL-1β and TNF-α. The thickness of granulation tissue and the number of neovessels were significantly lower compared to the uninfected control group. This study establishes a standardized paradigm for creating a mouse model of P. aeruginosa infection in wounds, emphasizing the importance of appropriate mouse strains, uniform wound preparation methods, and moderate inoculation doses for reliable and accurate experimental results. These elements will facilitate the assessment of changes across six key indicators post-infection, providing a foundational data set and technical support for future mechanistic investigations of P. aeruginosa infection and the development of targeted antimicrobial strategies. Full article