Search Results (150)

Most research studies have investigated the impact of pet ownership on the mental and physical well-being of elderly populations, supporting the beneficial effect that pets have on their owners. However, few researchers focused on the well-being of both owner and pet. The present study aimed to explore the well-being of pets owned by elderly individuals using an owner assessment tool and the relationship between elderly characteristics and the pet’s health-related quality of life based on the owner’s assessment of their pet’s well-being. Sixty elderly pet owners who made regular visits to veterinary clinics were selected to complete an electronic questionnaire about their pet’s health-related quality of life. The results identified a high agreement percentage on positive indicators related to the pet’s well-being such as “My pet wants to play and My pet responds to my presence” in the happiness domain, “My pet has more good days than bad days” in mental status, “My pet moves normally” in physical status and “My pet keeps him/herself clean” in hygiene which also resulted in a positive relationship with elderly age. Marital status influenced their responses to “My pet responds to my presence and My pet is as active as he/she has been”. The results also support the use of the applied questionnaire to help identify variables that contribute to a pet’s health-related quality of life. The correlation matrix revealed statistically significant positive associations (p < 0.001) among positively phrased items across all domains, as well as among negatively phrased items. These consistent alignments between direct and between reversed items suggest directional coherence and help mitigate potential response bias. Furthermore, the replication of these patterns across multiple domains reinforces the interpretation that the instrument captures a unified construct of pet well-being, In conclusion, based on subjective evaluation of pet-owner relationships, the ownership of pets by elderly individuals could be mutually beneficial to both elderly owners and their pets. Full article

Gastric cancer remains the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Advanced disease is associated with a poor prognosis, emphasizing the critical importance of early diagnosis through endoscopy. In addition to prognosis, disease extent also plays a pivotal role in guiding management strategies. Therefore, accurate locoregional staging (T and N staging) is vital for optimal prognostic and therapeutic planning. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has long been an essential tool in this regard, with computed tomography (CT) and, more recently, positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET–CT) serving as alternative imaging modalities. EUS is particularly valuable in the assessment of early gastric cancer, defined as tumor invasion confined to the mucosa or submucosa. These tumors are increasingly managed by endoscopic resection techniques offering improved post-treatment quality of life. EUS has also recently been utilized in the restaging process after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, aiding in the evaluation of tumor resectability and prognosis. Its performance may be further enhanced through the application of emerging techniques such as contrast-enhanced endosonography, EUS elastography, and artificial intelligence systems. In advanced, unresectable disease, complications such as gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) severely impact patient quality of life. In this setting, EUS-guided gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE) offers a less invasive alternative to surgical gastrojejunostomy. This review summarizes and critically analyzes the role of EUS in the context of gastric cancer, highlighting its applications across different stages of the disease and evaluating its performance relative to other diagnostic modalities. Full article

Odors from pet cats can negatively affect the quality of life of cat owners. The diverse bioactive compounds in plant extracts make them a promising candidate for effective odor reduction. This study evaluated twelve plant extracts for deodorizing efficacy via in vitro fermentation tests. Rosemary extract and licorice extract exhibited better deodorizing effects, with fractions of rosemary extract below 100 Da demonstrating the most effective deodorizing performance. Based on these findings, subsequent feeding trials were conducted using rosemary extract and its fractions below 100 Da. In the feeding trial, adult British Shorthair cats were divided into three groups (Control Check, RE, and RE100) and housed in a controlled-environment respiration chamber for 30 days. Measurements included odor emissions, fecal and blood physicochemical parameters, immune parameters, microbiota composition based on 16S rRNA sequencing, and metabolome analysis. The results of the feeding trial indicated that rosemary extract significantly reduced ammonia and hydrogen sulfide emissions (46.84%, 41.64%), while fractions below 100 Da of rosemary extract achieved even greater reductions (55.62%, 53.87%). Rosemary extract regulated the intestinal microbial community, significantly increasing the relative abundance of the intestinal probiotic Bifidobacterium (p < 0.05) and reducing the population of sulfate-reducing bacteria (p < 0.05). It also significantly reduced urease and uricase activities (p < 0.05) to reduce ammonia production and inhibited the degradation of sulfur-containing proteins and sulfate reduction to reduce hydrogen sulfide emissions. Furthermore, rosemary extract significantly enhanced the immune function of British Shorthair cats (p < 0.05). This study suggests that rosemary extract, particularly its fractions below 100 Da, is a highly promising pet deodorizer. Full article

Background/Objectives: Depression impairs the quality of life in older adults and represents a significant public health issue. Cognitive reserve may act as a protective factor against depressive symptoms in older adults. Additionally, interaction with pets may serve as another potential protective factor against these symptoms. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate whether higher cognitive reserve could predict a reduction in depressive symptoms in older adults and to investigate the moderating role of pet companionship in this relationship. Methods: The following instruments were used: a Sociodemographic Data Sheet, the Modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS-M), the Cognitive Reserve Index Questionnaire (CRIq), and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). Data were collected via video calls through WhatsApp and analyzed using a moderation analysis with PROCESS for SPSS. Results: The final sample consisted of 215 older adults with a mean age of 69.13 years (SD = 6.89). Among the participants, 53% owned pets and 47% did not. The overall model revealed a significant association between the predictor variables and the outcome (F(3, 211) = 4.24, p < 0.01). For the group without pets, the effect was not significant (β = −0.1082, p = 0.2916), but for the group with pets, the effect was substantial and negative on the GDS (β = −0.1936, p < 0.05). Conclusions: We concluded that the relationship between cognitive reserve and depressive symptoms is moderated by the presence of pets in individuals’ lives. These findings highlight the role of pets in protecting against depressive symptoms in older adults. Future studies should explore this relationship with more diverse samples. Full article

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to provide a detailed analysis of the current state of knowledge on Progressive Exercise Training (PET), encompassing its diverse modalities, effects on bone mineral density (BMD), quality of life outcomes, and implications for clinical practice. Methods: A structured search strategy was employed to retrieve literature from seven databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, MEDLINE, Science Direct, EBSCO, CINHAL, and PEDro) yielded twenty-four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) meeting the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of studies was evaluated using the PEDro scale. Meta-analyses were carried out to comprehensively assess the collective impact of PET on bone mineral density outcomes. Results: PET exhibited favorable effects on BMD across multiple anatomical sites, encompassing the femoral neck, total hip, lumbar spine, and others. This effect was observed across different age groups and genders, highlighting its potential benefits for diverse populations. PET encompasses a range of modalities, including resistance training, aerobic training, impact training, whole-body vibration, and tai chi, with a duration ranging from 4 to 24 months, with weekly sessions varying from two to five times. Some studies combined these modalities, reflecting the adaptability of PET to individual preferences and capabilities. Tailoring exercise prescriptions to individual needs emerged as a feasible approach within PET. A subset of studies assessed quality of life using validated instruments such as the 36-item short form survey (SF-36), shortened osteoporosis quality of life questionnaire (SOQLQ), and menopause quality of life instrument (MENQOL). Conclusions: This study provides strong evidence that PET represents a promising intervention for osteoporosis management, enhancing BMD and, to some extent, quality of life. PET offers a beacon of hope for better skeletal health and well-being in individuals grappling with osteoporosis, emphasizing the need for its incorporation into clinical practice. Full article

Prostate cancer remains a major global health challenge, ranking as the second most common malignancy in men worldwide. Advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies have transformed its management, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life. This review highlights recent breakthroughs in imaging, including multiparametric MRI and PSMA-PET, which have improved cancer detection and staging. Biomarker-based diagnostics, such as PHI and 4K Score, offer precise risk stratification, reducing unnecessary biopsies. Innovations in treatment, including robotic-assisted surgery, novel hormone therapies, immunotherapy, and PARP inhibitors, are redefining care for localized and advanced prostate cancer. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are emerging as powerful tools to optimize diagnostics, risk prediction, and treatment personalization. Additionally, advances in radiation therapy, such as IMRT and SBRT, provide targeted and effective options for high-risk patients. While these innovations have significantly improved survival and minimized overtreatment, challenges remain in optimizing therapy sequencing and addressing disparities in care. The integration of AI, theranostics, and gene-editing technologies holds immense promise for the future of prostate cancer management. Full article

Background/Objectives: Gliomas, including the most aggressive subtype—glioblastoma multiforme, are brain tumors with an unfavorable prognosis and high mortality. Early diagnosis is essential to improve treatment efficacy. Positron emission tomography PET with O-(2-[¹⁸F] fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine ([¹⁸F]FET) has been supported by clinical studies for its role in diagnosis and monitoring the disease. However, the low availability of [¹⁸F]FET in Italy has limited its use in clinical praxis. This study describes the technological transfer of the radiopharmaceutical IASOglio^® (the commercial [¹⁸F]FET developed by Curium Pharma in Italy), with the aim of improving national access to this advanced diagnostic technology. Methods: Three consecutive batches were produced using the automated Trasis AllinOne module, and quality control was performed, including chemical and microbiological tests, to successfully validate the production process. Additionally, the stability of the radiopharmaceutical for its entire shelf life has been demonstrated with stability testing at 14 h after end of synthesis (EOS). Results: The production of [¹⁸F]FET achieved a non-corrected yield between 49% and 52%, with a corrected decay rate ranging from 73% to 79%. The process met the required quality specifications, including bio-burden control and filter integrity. The technological transfer was successfully completed, and production authorization was obtained from the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) for the Officina Farmaceutica of Institute of Clinical Physiology of the National Research Council (CNR-IFC) located in Pisa. Conclusions: Local production of [¹⁸F]FET in Italy marks a milestone in glioma diagnosis, thereby contributing to timely treatment and improved clinical outcomes. Full article

Objective: Current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) guidance for positron emission tomography (PET) drugs has been established in Europe and the United States. In Japan, the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) approved the use of radiosynthesizers as medical devices for the in-house manufacturing of PET drugs in hospitals and clinics, regardless of the cGMP environment. Without adequate facilities, equipment, and personnel required by cGMP regulations, the quality assurance (QA) and clinical effectiveness of PET drugs largely depend on the radiosynthesizers themselves. To bridge the gap between radiochemistry standardization and site qualification, the Japanese Society of Nuclear Medicine (JSNM) has issued guidance for the in-house manufacturing of small-scale PET drugs under academic GMP (a-GMP) environments. The goals of cGMP and a-GMP are different: cGMP focuses on process optimization, certification, and commercialization, while a-GMP facilitates the small-scale, in-house production of PET drugs for clinical trials and patient-specific standard of care. Among PET isotopes, N-13 has a short half-life (10 min) and must be synthesized on site. [¹³N]Ammonia ([¹³N]NH₃) is used for myocardial perfusion imaging under the Japan Health Insurance System (JHIS) and was thus selected as a working example for the manufacturing of PET drugs in an a-GMP environment. Methods: A [¹³N]NH₃-radiosynthesizer was installed in a hot cell within an a-GMP-compliant radiopharmacy unit. To comply with a-GMP regulations, the air flow was adjusted through HEPA filters. All cabinets and cells were disinfected to ensure sterility once a month. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) were applied, including analytical methods. Batch records, QA data, and radiation exposure to staff in the synthesis of [¹³N]NH₃ were measured and documented. Results: 2.52 GBq of [¹³N]NH₃ end-of-synthesis (EOS) was obtained in an average of 13.5 min in 15 production runs. The radiochemical purity was more than 99%. Exposure doses were 11 µSv for one production run and 22 µSv for two production runs. The pre-irradiation background dose rate was 0.12 µSv/h. After irradiation, the exposed dosage in the front of the hot cell was 0.15 µSv/h. The leakage dosage measured at the bench was 0.16 µSv/h. The exposure and leakage dosages in the manufacturing of [¹³N]NH₃ were similar to the background level as measured by radiation monitoring systems in an a-GMP environments. All QAs, environmental data, bacteria assays, and particulates met a-GMP compliance standards. Conclusions: In-house a-GMP environments require dedicated radiosynthesizers, documentation for batch records, validation schedules, radiation protection monitoring, air and particulate systems, and accountable personnel. In this study, the in-house manufacturing of [¹³N]NH₃ under a-GMP conditions was successfully demonstrated. These findings support the international harmonization of small-scale PET drug manufacturing in hospitals and clinics for future multi-center clinical trials and the development of a standard of care. Full article

Obesity is a chronic disease associated with an increased dietary fat intake and reduced physical activity, posing significant health risks, including metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and diminished quality of life. This study investigated the anti-obesity potential of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) derived from black soldier fly larvae (BSFL-MCFAs) in male C57BL/6J mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Lauric acid (>50% of total BSFL lipids) was the predominant fatty acid. Mice supplemented with BSFL-MCFAs exhibited significantly lower weight gain and food efficiency ratios (FERs) than HFD-fed mice, despite similar food intake. Medium-chain fatty acids derived from BSFL supplementation also attenuated HFD-induced increases in triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels while improving cardiac risk indices. Furthermore, BSFL-MCFAs reduced serum glucose and leptin levels, mitigated hypothalamic endoplasmic reticulum stress marker expression, and decreased serum alanine transaminase levels, indicating protective effects against obesity-related metabolic dysregulation. These findings suggest that BSFL-MCFAs enhance energy expenditure and thermogenesis, thereby contributing to effective weight management and obesity prevention. As a sustainable and functional lipid source, BSFL-MCFAs hold promise as a feed additive for animals and as a dietary ingredient for preventing pet obesity, offering an innovative approach to combat obesity and its associated health risks. Full article

Bone metastases represent a critical complication in oncology, frequently indicating advanced malignancy and substantially reducing patient quality of life. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex interactions between tumor cells and the bone microenvironment, emphasizing the relevance of the “seed and soil” hypothesis, the RANK/RANKL/OPG signaling axis, and Wnt signaling pathways that collectively drive metastatic progression. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the formation of osteolytic and osteoblastic lesions are examined in detail, with a particular focus on their implications for bone metastases associated with breast, prostate, lung, and other cancers. A central component of this review is the categorization of pathological biomarkers into four types: diagnostic, prognostic, predictive, and monitoring. We provide a comprehensive evaluation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), bone turnover markers (such as TRACP-5b and CTX), advanced imaging biomarkers (including PET/CT and MRI), and novel genomic signatures. These biomarkers offer valuable insights for early detection, enhanced risk stratification, and optimized therapeutic decision-making. Furthermore, emerging strategies in immunotherapy and bone-targeted treatments are discussed, highlighting the potential of biomarker-guided precision medicine to enhance personalized patient care. The distinctiveness of this review lies in its integrative approach, combining fundamental pathophysiological insights with the latest developments in biomarker discovery and therapeutic innovation. By synthesizing evidence across various cancer types and biomarker categories, we provide a cohesive framework aimed at advancing both the scientific understanding and clinical management of bone metastases. Full article

Nuclear medicine has emerged as a critical modality in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of urological malignancies, particularly prostate cancer. Advances in single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography/CT (PET/CT) have enhanced tumor assessment across staging, treatment response, and recurrence settings. Molecular imaging, which offers insights beyond traditional anatomical imaging, is increasingly integral in specific clinical scenarios. Theranostic nuclear medicine, which combines diagnostic imaging with targeted therapy, has become a well-established treatment option, particularly for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). The development of the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) radioligands has revolutionized clinical management by enabling precise disease staging and delivering effective radioligand therapy (RLT). Ongoing research aims to refine the role of PSMA PET imaging in staging and treatment monitoring, while optimizing PSMA-targeted RLT for broader clinical use. Given that prostate cancer remains highly prevalent, the anticipated increase in the demand for RLT presents both challenges and opportunities for nuclear medicine services globally. Theranostic approaches exemplify personalized medicine by enabling the tailoring of treatments to individual tumor biology, thereby improving survival outcomes and maintaining patients’ quality of life with minimal toxicity. Although the current focus is on advanced disease, future research holds promise for expanding these strategies to earlier stages, potentially enhancing curative prospects. This evolving field not only signifies a paradigm shift in the care of prostate cancer patients but also underscores the growing importance of nuclear medicine in delivering precision oncology. Full article

In recent years, the improvement in living standards and the corresponding increase in quality-of-life expectations have significantly increased the demand for advanced electronic products. This trend has generated great interest in human health monitoring and extensive research efforts. Flexible sensors in particular are being given preference because of their high extensibility, excellent biocompatibility properties, low weight, and low cost. In the present work, we took this idea further and designed flexible sensors using different substrates such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyimide (PI), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), fabricating them with silver paste ink using screen-printing technology. A uniform and homogeneous conductive layer was formed, which was identified through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. Additionally, the width of the printed silver paste ink was approximately 100 µm. This study contributes to the design and fabrication of a new generation of flexible sensors for health monitoring. The results demonstrate that these sensors are technically possible as part of long-term wearable health-monitoring solutions for wearable health care technologies. Full article

Nanoarchitectonics influences the properties of objects at micro- and even macro-scales, aiming to develop better structures for protection of product. Although its applications were analyzed in different areas, nanoarchitectonics of food packaging—the focus of this review—has not been discussed, to the best of our knowledge. The (A) structural and (B) functional hierarchy of food packaging is discussed here for the enhancement of protection, extending shelf-life, and preserving the nutritional quality of diverse products including meat, fish, dairy, fruits, vegetables, gelled items, and beverages. Interestingly, the structure and design of packaging for these diverse products often possess similar principles and methods including active packaging, gas permeation control, sensor incorporation, UV/pulsed light processing, and thermal/plasma treatment. Here, nanoarchitechtonics serves as the unifying component, enabling protection against oxidation, light, microbial contamination, temperature, and mechanical actions. Finally, materials are an essential consideration in food packaging, particularly beyond commonly used polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics, with emphasis on biodegradable (polybutylene succinate (PBS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and polybutylene adipate co-terephthalate (PBAT)) as well as green even edible (bio)-materials: polysaccharides (starch, cellulose, pectin, gum, zein, alginate, agar, galactan, ulvan, galactomannan, laccase, chitin, chitosan, hyaluronic acid, etc.). Nanoarchitechnotics design of these materials eventually determines the level of food protection as well as the sustainability of the processes. Marketing, safety, sustainability, and ethics are also discussed in the context of industrial viability and consumer satisfaction. Full article

Human–animal relationships have long been idealized as universally positive, but recent studies highlight the complexities and contradictions inherent in this bond. This study re-analyzes previously published data to examine the nuanced effects of pet ownership on human well-being, particularly under stressful circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from three independent surveys (n = 840) were re-analyzed to explore the bio-psychosocial implications of pet companionship. Key instruments included the Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), and Lexington Attachment to Pets Scale (LAPS). Results revealed that pet ownership was significantly associated with higher levels of psychosocial stress, challenging the assumption that pets universally improve quality of life. Notably, individuals with current pet ownership reported lower quality of life compared to non-owners. However, qualitative analyses illustrated perceived emotional and social support among pet owners, reflecting the “pet-effect paradox.” Mental health variables such as depression and loneliness emerged as stronger predictors of well-being than pet attachment. This study introduces the “Aunty Phenomenon” as a conceptual framework to describe the idealization of pet relationships, while acknowledging the responsibilities they entail. These findings underscore the importance of a holistic approach to human–animal bond research. Full article

Background: The growth of the older adult population calls for innovative and cost-effective ways of promoting their physical, psychological, and cognitive health. Human–animal interaction, including pet ownership, is related to positive and negative aspects of human health. Not all pet owners respond in the same way. The levels of pet attachment and pets’ influence on their owners’ lives could moderate the relationship between psychological status and health outcomes. Purpose: We examined the moderating role of pet attachment in the relationships of psychological status (mental wellbeing, happiness, anxiety, depression) to physical function (physical wellbeing, usual- and rapid-gait speeds, physical performance battery) in community-residing older adult pet owners. Methods: A cross-sectional, secondary analysis of pet-owning older adult participants in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (n = 178). Results: In regression analyses, controlling for age, gender, and comorbidities, pet attachment and pet influence moderated the relationships of physical wellbeing to mental wellbeing and anxiety (p < 0.05). Pet influence also moderated the relationship between anxiety and usual gait speed (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Greater attachment and influence buffer the relationship of perceptions of poor mental function with perceptions of poor physical wellbeing suggesting one mechanism for health benefits of human-animal interaction. Full article