1696 research outputs found
Sort by
Skeletal Site-Specific Lipid Profile and Hematopoietic Progenitors of Bone Marrow Adipose Tissue in Patients Undergoing Primary Hip Arthroplasty
No full textBackground/Objectives: Bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) has been described as an important biomechanic and lipotoxic factor with negative impacts on skeletal and hematopoietic system regeneration. BMAT undergoes metabolic and cellular adaptations with age and disease, being a source of potential biomarkers. However, there is no evidence on the lipid profile and cellularity at different skeletal locations in osteoarthritis patients undergoing primary hip arthroplasty. Methods: Acetabular and femoral bone marrow (BM) and gluteofemoral subcutaneous adipose tissue (gfSAT) were obtained from matched patients undergoing hip replacement surgery. BM, BMAT, and gfSAT were explored at the levels of total lipids, fatty acids, and cells by using thin-layerand gas chromatography, ex vivo cellular assays, and flow cytometry. Results: BMAT content was significantly higher in femoral than in acetabular BM. Total lipid analyses revealed significantly lower triglyceride content in femoral than in acetabular BMAT and gfSAT. Frequencies of saturated palmitic, myristic, and stearic acids were higher in femoral than in acetabular BMAT and gfSAT. The content of CD45+CD34+ cells within femoral BMAT was higher than in acetabular BMAT or gfSAT. This was associated with a higher incidence of total clonogenic hematopoietic progenitors and late erythroid colonies CFU-E in femoral BMAT when compared to acetabular BMAT, similar to their BM counterparts. Conclusions: Collectively, our results indicate that the lipid profiles of hip bone and femoral BMAT impose significantly different microenvironments and distributions of cells with hematopoietic potential. These findings might bring forth new inputs for defining BMAT biology and setting novel directions in OA disease investigations
Osteosarcopenic adiposity and its relation to cancer and chronic diseases: Implications for research to delineate mechanisms and improve clinical outcomes
No full textThis is the third review in our series examining the connection between osteosarcopenic adiposity/obesity (OSA/OSO) syndrome and health impairments. The objective here was to examine whether there is a causal and/or bidirectional relationship between OSA and some chronic diseases. The search (in PubMed, Scopus, and WoS), screened for articles from their inception to the end of February 2024. Of n=859 articles retrieved, eleven met the eligibility criteria (having all three body composition compartments measured-bone, muscle, adipose tissue and being conducted in adult humans with chronic disease). The selected articles included four assessing OSA and cancers, one each assessing OSA and HIV, Cushing’s disease (CD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), pulmonary function, and two for alcohol abuse-caused liver disease, as well as one 6-year study showing the progression to OSA over time. There was a positive relationship between OSA and each of the chronic diseases, as well as a possible bidirectional relationship between OSA and cancers. The evidence linking OSA with HIV, CD, CKD, liver disease, and pulmonary function, was insufficient to derive firm conclusions about their causal/bidirectional relations. This review emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach in the management and treatment of chronic diseases where body composition assessment should get full attention. To close the knowledge gap, more studies about the role of OSA in chronic diseases are needed
Exposure to cadmium and its impacts on human health: A short review
No full textOne of the most harmful heavy metals that is commonly found in water, air, soil, and sediments is cadmium (Cd). Humans are most exposed to cadmium through inhalation, cigarette smoking, and consumption of contaminated food and water. It shows a half-life of around 25 to 30 years in plants and mammals. Epidemiological evidence suggests a link between cadmium exposure and several cancers: breast, lung, prostate, nasopharynx, pancreas, kidney, etc. Thus, this type of article is necessary to raise awareness in society and help individuals manage heavy metal ion toxicity. With an emphasis on the organs most impacted, the mechanisms of toxicity, and the long-term effects of exposure, this article aims to present a thorough analysis of the effects of cadmium exposure on human health. It also identifies the gaps in the existing literature and makes recommendations for future research areas to fully comprehend the effects of cadmium and create efficient mitigation and prevention plans
The European Academy of Neurology NeuroCOVID-19 Task Force: A lesson for the future
Full text linkBackground:The COVID-19 pandemic has made its mark on world history forever causing millions of deaths, and straining health systems, economies, and societies worldwide. The European Academy of Neurology (EAN) reacted promptly. A special NeuroCOVID-19 Task Force was set up at the beginning of the pandemic to promote knowledge, research, international collaborations, and raise awareness about the prevention and treatment of COVID-19-related neurological issues. Methods Activities carried out during and after the pandemic by the EAN NeuroCOVID-19 Task Force are described. The main aim was to review all these initiatives in detail as an overarching lesson from the past to improve the present and be better prepared in case of future pandemics. Results During the pandemic, the Task Force was engaged in several initiatives: the creation of the EAN NEuro-covid ReGistrY (ENERGY); the launch of several surveys (neurological manifestations of COVID-19 infection; the pandemic's impact on patients with chronic neurological diseases; the pandemic's impact of restrictions for clinical practice, curricular training, and health economics); the publication of position papers regarding the management of patients with neurological diseases during the pandemic, and vaccination hesitancy among people with chronic neurological disorders; and the creation of a dedicated “COVID-19 Breaking News” section in EANpages. Conclusions The EAN NeuroCOVID-19 Task Force was immediately engaged in various activities to participate in the fight against COVID-19. The Task Force's concerted strategy may serve as a foundation for upcoming global neurological emergencies
Reviewing zinc in soils and wheat grain in Serbia: Is there a risk of deficiency in human wheat-based diets?
No full textZinc (Zn) soil deficiency negatively affects crop yields and the quality of staple food globally. Soil Zn availability is declining due to soil conditions and is further impacted by factors such as agricultural practices, especially the use of phosphorus fertilizers, which can reduce Zn uptake in wheat. As a result, wheat grain often contains low Zn levels, and its bioavailability is limited, contributing to insufficient Zn intake through wheat-based foods. This review focuses on plant-available Zn status in soils, Zn in wheat grains, and the human population in Serbia, emphasizing the connections between these issues. Data on soils with low available Zn, rather low Zn in wheat grain and general lack of results on Zn concentration in crop plant tissues and application of Zn fertilizers suggest that further research is needed to evaluate nutritional status of wheat plants for Zn. Existing data suggest that Zn deficiency in humans could be a concern in Serbia, especially with dietary shifts toward more plant-based diets. Given the high consumption of wheat in the country, biofortification presents a promising and solution to improve Zn levels in wheat grain in a sustainable way. Agronomic biofortification, through application of soil and foliar Zn fertilizers can enhance Zn concentration in wheat grain and improve human nutrition, thus reducing the risk of deficiency in the population
Nutritional composition and health benefits of peas—a bibliometric research
No full textPea (Pisum sativum L.) is a nutritious legume with health benefits, gaining attention as a functional food. Bibliometric studies use quantitative methods to assess research trends, gaps, and future directions. The main objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of the fragmented literature on the nutritional profiles and health benefits of peas using a bibliometric approach. The analysis examined publications from 2013 to 2023, revealing trends in publication volume, author productivity, and international collaboration. Publications peaked in 2015, focusing on topics such as dietary fibers, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and antinutrients affecting mineral bioavailability. Over the decade, the annual growth rate was 3.25%. The University of Saskatchewan produced the most influential research, with Warkentin TD as the most productive author. Canada and Poland had the highest number of publications, with the USA, China, and India following. Six major international co-authorship networks were identified, highlighting significant collaborations between countries. Key research themes included antioxidants, protein, fiber, and phytate in peas. This study provides a strong foundation for future integrated research, helping to better understand the potential of peas as a functional food and guiding more targeted studies to address current knowledge gaps across various disciplines
Alpinetin Exhibits Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects in C57BL/6 Mice with Alcoholic Liver Disease Induced by the Lieber–DeCarli Ethanol Liquid Diet
No full textAlcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a common non-communicable chronic liver disease characterized by a spectrum of conditions ranging from steatosis and alcohol-associated steatohepatitis (AH) to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pathogenesis of ALD involves a complex interplay of various molecular, biochemical, genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. While the mechanisms are well studied, therapeutic options remain limited. Alpinetin, a natural flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown potential hepatoprotective effects, though its efficacy in ALD remains unexplored. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of alpinetin using a Lieber–DeCarli ethanol liquid diet model of ALD in C57BL/6 mice. Mice were divided into three groups: the control group, the ethanol group, and the ethanol group treated with alpinetin. Serum activity of ALT, AST, γ-GT, and ALP was measured to assess liver function, along with antioxidative and oxidative/nitrosative stress markers in liver tissue. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress parameters in liver tissue were also evaluated. Histological assessment of disease activity was performed using the SALVE grading and staging system. Treatment with alpinetin significantly reduced serum levels of ALT, AST, γ-GT, and oxidative/nitrosative stress markers while increasing antioxidative markers. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and ER stress parameters were significantly decreased. Histological analysis demonstrated reduced steatosis, hepatocyte ballooning, and inflammation. These findings suggest that alpinetin holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for managing ALD
Vibration Foam Rolling Treatment Influence on Acute Changes in Plantar Flexors Muscle Temperature and Surface Emg Activity in Amateur Male Athletes
No full textBackground/Objectives: Foam rolling is widespread and deeply rooted in exercise practice. The optimal duration and role of this treatment still lack scientific consensus. A relatively novel foam rolling treatment that combines vibration during application targets different muscle characteristics that are not well understood. Studies exploring this combined treatment are scarce. The aim of this study was set to investigate the acute effects of different duration vibration (15 s, 30 s, and 60 s) foam rolling treatment (VFRt) on muscle skin temperature and surface muscle electromyography (sEMG) during Maximal Voluntary Isometric Contraction. Methods: Eighteen male subjects performed four sets of three trials of maximal isometric heel rises during three experimental sessions conducted in research laboratory. Results: Repeated measures of ANOVA determined that the muscle skin temperature significant difference was only found for the 30 s treatment (p = 0.013–0.000). For surface muscle electromyography a 30 s treatment out of all three yielded the most significant results, between pretreatment set and post-treatment set 1 (p = 0.01)—small effect size (Cohen’s d = −0.33)—and pretreatment set to post-treatment set 3 (p = 0.01)—small effect size (Cohen’s d = −0.30). Conclusions: All treatments did not produce significant differences during Maximal Voluntary Isometric Contraction heel rises, which—for practical application purposes—present a safe treatment. Future studies should investigate the acute effects of longer duration treatment on changes in surface muscle temperature. In terms of practical application, other findings suggest that muscle efficiency was improved taken into account of unchanged muscle strength along with decreased sEMG, which is beneficial. Also, the downward trend of muscle activity caused by the other two treatment durations could be of significance for practical application during rehabilitation process or during activities where this is a desired and indicated goal. In terms of targeting elevated muscle activity, 30 s of VFRt is the treatment of choice
Is there still hesitancy towards SARS-CoV-2 vaccination among people with neurological disease– a survey of the NeuroCOVID-19 task force of the European Academy of Neurology
No full textBackground
An online 3-item survey was sent to the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) community and inquired about the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination skepticism and the underlying thoughts and factors restricting vaccine use among patients with neurological conditions.
Results
We obtained 616 responses from 84 countries, predominantly from Europe. In the view of the treating neurologist, patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), neuroimmunological disorders (ND), and chronic neurological infections continued to have high levels of skepticism toward SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Patients with MS/ND were quoted as the most hesitant group, with 60% of the respondents sharing this impression. The patient group perceived as most confident towards immunization against COVID-19 and with the lowest level of distrust towards the vaccine were those with sleep disorders. For all other conditions, perceived distrust ranged between 42 and 52%. Fear of adverse events of vaccination or disease reactivation was perceived by 87% of patients with MS/ND and more than 70% of patients with stroke/vascular neurology, neuromuscular disorders, chronic neurological infections, and peripheral neuropathy. Patients with sleep disorders (54%), autonomic disorders (46%), movement disorders (43%), and dementia (43%) were sensed as less fearful of vaccine-related adverse events.
Conclusion
Despite the large body of evidence proving the efficacy and safety of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, patients with certain neurological disorders still have a surprisingly high percentage of distrust and fear of adverse events. Our observations emphasize the importance of continuous evidence-based information delivery and patient education by treating neurologists.
Key summary points
• In 2022, we observed increased rates of vaccination hesitancy and skepticism for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination among patients with certain neurological disorders.
• We aimed to reassess the considerations by contacting neurology residents and specialists.
• In 2023, patients with MS and autoimmune neurological disorders continue to show distrust and fear of adverse events.
• Physicians play a crucial role in supporting these public health efforts, which have come further under scrutiny during the pandemic
Need for awareness and surveillance of long-term post-COVID neurodegenerative disorders. A position paper from the neuroCOVID‐19 task force of the European Academy of Neurology
No full textBackground: Neuropathological and clinical studies suggest that infection with SARS-CoV-2 may increase the long-term risk of neurodegeneration. Methods: We provide a narrative overview of pathological and clinical observations justifying the implementation of a surveillance program to monitor changes in the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders in the years after COVID-19. Results: Autopsy studies revealed diverse changes in the brain, including loss of vascular integrity, microthromboses, gliosis, demyelination, and neuronal- and glial injury and cell death, in both unvaccinated and vaccinated individuals irrespective of the severity of COVID-19. Recent data suggest that microglia play an important role in sustained COVID-19-related inflammation, which contributes to the etiology initiating a neurodegenerative cascade, to the worsening of pre-existing neurodegenerative disease or to the acceleration of neurodegenerative processes. Histopathological data have been supported by neuroimaging, and epidemiological studies also suggested a higher risk for neurodegenerative diseases after COVID-19. Conclusions: Due to the high prevalence of COVID-19 during the pandemic, healthcare systems should be aware of, and be prepared for a potential increase in the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases in the upcoming years. Strategies may include follow-up of well-described cohorts, analyses of outcomes in COVID-19-registries, nationwide surveillance programs using record-linkage of ICD-10 diagnoses, and comparing the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders in the post-pandemic periods to values of the pre-pandemic years. Awareness and active surveillance are particularly needed, because diverse clinical manifestations due to earlier SARS-CoV-2 infections may no longer be quoted as post-COVID-19 symptoms, and hence, increasing incidence of neurodegenerative pathologies at the community level may remain unnoticed