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Pharmacological Research Jun 2024Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (F. prausnitzii) has been recognized for its various intestinal and extraintestinal benefits to human. And reduction of F. prausnitzii has...
Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (F. prausnitzii) has been recognized for its various intestinal and extraintestinal benefits to human. And reduction of F. prausnitzii has been linked to an increased risk of intestinal fibrosis in patients of Crohn's disease (CD). In this study, oral administration of either live F. prausnitzii or its extracellular vesicles (FEVs) can markedly mitigate the severity of fibrosis in mice induced by repetitive administration of DSS. In vitro experiment revealed that FEVs were capable of directing the polarization of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) towards an M2b macrophage phenotype, which has been associated with anti-fibrotic activities. This effect of FEV was found to be stable under various conditions that promote the development of pro-fibrotic M1/M2a/M2c macrophages. Proteomics and RNA sequencing were performed to uncover the molecular modulation of macrophages by FEVs. Notably, we found that FEVs reprogramed every metabolism of macrophages by damaging the mitochondria, and inhibited oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis. Moreover, FEV-treated macrophages showed a decreased expression of PPARγ and an altered lipid processing phenotype characterized by decreased cholesterol efflux, which may promote energy reprogramming. Taken together, these findings identify FEV as a driver of macrophage reprogramming, suggesting that triggering M2b macrophage polarization by oral admiration of FEV may serve as strategy to alleviate hyperfibrotic intestine conditions in CD.
PubMed: 38945379
DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107277 -
Appetite Jun 2024The Mediterranean Diet has been recognized as one of the healthiest and most sustainable dietary patterns and is flavor rich due to the use of different seasonings, such...
The Mediterranean Diet has been recognized as one of the healthiest and most sustainable dietary patterns and is flavor rich due to the use of different seasonings, such as aromatic plants, in dish confection. Based on the hypotheses that: 1) gustatory function will affect food choices; 2) seasoning flavors may be differently accepted according to individuals' gustatory functions; the aim of the present study was to assess the association between taste sensitivity and/or preference with Mediterranean Diet adherence and seasoning consumption. A total of 383 adults (18-59 years old; 198 female, 185 male) from southeast of Portugal were enrolled in this study, with 291 (145 female and 146 male) also evaluated for gustatory function. Recognition thresholds were obtained for four tastes (sweet, sour, salty, and bitter) and astringency, as well as preference level for the highest concentration of each stimulus tested. A validated Food Frequency Questionnaire was filled out, and MD adherence was extrapolated from the answers of the Food Frequency Questionnaire according to the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) score. In total, 20.8% of the individuals presented low, 58.2% medium, and 21.0% high adherence. Adherence was higher in women than men and in older individuals than younger adults. Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet was positively correlated with aromatic plants consumption but not spices. Seasonings were associated with gustatory function, and the cluster with higher consumption presented higher preferences for bitter and salty tastes. Total sodium intake was also higher in this cluster, suggesting that these individuals prefer stronger oral sensations. In conclusion, this study shows that MD adherence is not high, even in regions with rural characteristics. The observed association of Mediterranean Diet and seasoning intake with gustatory function do underline the usefulness of this information in strategies aimed at promoting healthy and sustainable eating patterns.
PubMed: 38945368
DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107581 -
International Journal of Biological... Jun 2024O-carboxymethyl chitosan (O-CMC) is a chitosan derivative produced through the substitution of hydroxyl (-OH) functional groups in glucosamine units with carboxymethyl... (Review)
Review
O-carboxymethyl chitosan (O-CMC) is a chitosan derivative produced through the substitution of hydroxyl (-OH) functional groups in glucosamine units with carboxymethyl (-CHCOOH) substituents, effectively addressing the inherent solubility issues of chitosan in aqueous solutions. O-CMC has garnered significant interest due to its enhanced solubility, elevated viscosity, minimal toxicity, and advantageous biocompatibility properties. Furthermore, O-CMC demonstrates antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant characteristics, rendering it a promising candidate for various biomedical uses such as wound healing, tissue engineering, anti-tumor therapies, biosensors, and bioimaging. Additionally, O-CMC is well-suited for the fabrication of nanoparticles, hydrogels, films, microcapsules, and tablets, offering opportunities for effective drug delivery systems. This review outlines the distinctive features of O-CMC, offers analyses of advancements and future potential based on current research, examines significant obstacles for clinical implementation, and foresees its ongoing significant impacts in the realm of biomedicine.
PubMed: 38945322
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133465 -
European Journal of Pharmacology Jun 2024Bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) and their downstream signaling pathways are expressed not only in the oral tissues but also in extraoral tissues. Emerging data has...
AIMS
Bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) and their downstream signaling pathways are expressed not only in the oral tissues but also in extraoral tissues. Emerging data has demonstrated the beneficial effect of ghrelin in neurodegenerative diseases. Gaining more insight into the interaction between TAS2Rs and gut hormones may expand their therapeutic applications. Herein, we aimed to assess the possible effect of TAS2R activation by denatonium benzoate (DB) in modulating functional and neurobiochemical alterations in a model of Parkinson's disease (PD).
MAIN METHODS
PD model was induced by daily injection of rotenone (2 mg/kg). Rats received DB (5 mg/kg), atenolol (10 mg/kg), or both concomitantly with rotenone, daily for 28 days. Evaluation of the motor abnormalities and histological examination of brain tissues were conducted. In addition, striatal dopamine contents, immunohistochemical expression of tyrosine hydroxylase, plasma ghrelin level, and biochemical analysis of markers of inflammation and oxidative stress were assessed.
KEY FINDINGS
Treatment with DB increased serum levels of ghrelin and striatal dopamine contents with consequent amelioration of oxidative stress and attenuation of inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, DB treatment significantly ameliorated motor disturbance and histological abnormalities compared to untreated rats. Atenolol inhibited ghrelin release and abolished the positive effect of DB suggesting the involvement of ghrelin on such effects.
SIGNIFICANCE
The current study suggests that TAS2Rs agonists are promising candidates for ameliorating rotenone-induced PD pathology in rats, an action that could be linked to the enhancement of ghrelin release with consequent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
PubMed: 38945288
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176802 -
Virologica Sinica Jun 2024Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), mainly caused by enterovirus 71 (EV71), have frequently occurred in the Asia-Pacific region, posing a significant threat to the...
Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), mainly caused by enterovirus 71 (EV71), have frequently occurred in the Asia-Pacific region, posing a significant threat to the health of infants and young children. Therefore, research on the infection mechanism and pathogenicity of enteroviruses is increasingly becoming important. The 3D polymerase, as the most critical RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) for EV71 replication, is widely targeted to inhibit EV71 infection. In this study, we identified a novel host protein, AIMP2, capable of binding to 3D polymerase and inhibiting EV71 infection. Subsequent investigations revealed that AIMP2 recruits the E3 ligase SMURF2, which mediates the polyubiquitination and degradation of 3D polymerase. Furthermore, the antiviral effect of AIMP2 extended to the CVA16 and CVB1 serotypes. Our research uncovered the dynamic regulatory function of AIMP2 during EV71 infection, revealing a novel antiviral mechanism and providing new insights for the development of antienteroviral therapeutic strategies.
PubMed: 38945214
DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2024.06.009 -
Journal of Endodontics Jun 2024The current evidence linking tooth loss and cardiovascular disease mortality is inconclusive. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to explore the association... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
The current evidence linking tooth loss and cardiovascular disease mortality is inconclusive. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to explore the association between tooth loss and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality.
METHODS
A comprehensive literature search of databases and gray literature included: Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, CENTRAL, Google Scholar, various digital repositories. The included studies reported on CVD mortality and tooth loss. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess the quality of included studies. Random-effects meta-analysis method, sub-group analysis (based on the tooth loss categories (edentulous and fewer than 10 teeth present), meta-regression (based on the number. of confounders), publication bias and sensitivity analysis were performed.
RESULTS
Twelve articles met the eligibility criteria with an overall "Good" quality. A significant association between tooth loss (edentulous or less than 10 teeth present) and CVD mortality was found in the primary meta-analysis, which compiled data from 12 studies. The estimated hazard ratio (HR) was 1.66 (95% CI: 1.32-2.09), and there was high heterogeneity (I = 82.42). Subgroup analysis revealed that the edentulous subgroup showed a higher risk with no significant heterogeneity, while the subgroup with fewer than 10 teeth showed a higher risk with substantial heterogeneity. Meta-regression analysis did not reveal any significant impact (p = 0.626) on whether variations in the number of confounders across studies would substantially affect the overall findings. No publication bias was detected and the sensitivity analysis based on the critical confounders also confirmed that tooth loss as a risk factor for CVD mortality (HR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.28- 1.80), (I 51.82%).
CONCLUSION
The present systematic review reported that being edentulous or having lesser than 10 teeth is a predictive indicator of CVD mortality.
PubMed: 38945200
DOI: 10.1016/j.joen.2024.06.012 -
Journal of Endodontics Jun 2024This study investigates the feasibility of a dynamic navigation system (DNS) small field of view workflow (DNS-SFOVw) for fiber-post removal and compares its accuracy...
INTRODUCTION
This study investigates the feasibility of a dynamic navigation system (DNS) small field of view workflow (DNS-SFOVw) for fiber-post removal and compares its accuracy and efficiency to the conventional large field of view workflow (DNS-LFOVw).
METHODS
Fifty-six extracted human maxillary molars were divided into DNS-SFOVw (n=28) and DNS-LFOVw (n=28). The palatal canal was restored with an intra-radicular RelyX fiber post and luted with RelyX Unicem; a core buildup was used. Teeth were mounted in a 3D-printed surgical jaw. A preoperative cone-beam-computed tomography (CBCT) scan was taken with a 40 x 40 mm FOV for the DNS-SFOVw and a single arch CBCT scan for the DNS-LFOVw. The drilling entry point, trajectory, angle, and depth were planned in the X-guide software. The DNS registration method for the DNS-SFOVw was virtual-based registration on teeth, and the marker point-based method was used for the DNS-LFOVw. The fiber posts were drilled out under DNS guidance. A postoperative CBCT scan was taken. Three-dimensional (3D) deviations, angular deflection, number of mishaps, registration, and total operation time were calculated.
RESULTS
The DNS-SFOVw was as accurate as DNS-LFOVw (p>.05). The DNS-LFOVw registration time was less than DNS-SFOVw (p<.05). There was no difference in the number of mishaps (p>.05). Both DNS-SFOVw and DNS-LFOVw were time-efficient, with DNS-LFOVw taking less total operational time (p<.05).
CONCLUSION
Within the limitations of this in-vitro study, the DNS-SFOVw was as accurate as the DNS-LFOVw for fiber-post removal. Both DNS-LFOVw and DNS-SFOVw were time-efficient in removing fiber-posts.
PubMed: 38945199
DOI: 10.1016/j.joen.2024.06.011 -
Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy =... Jun 2024Urine-derived stem cells (USCs) have gained the attention of researchers in the biomedical field in the past few years . Regarding the several varieties of cells that... (Review)
Review
Urine-derived stem cells (USCs) have gained the attention of researchers in the biomedical field in the past few years . Regarding the several varieties of cells that have been used for this purpose, USCs have demonstrated mesenchymal stem cell-like properties, such as differentiation and immunomodulation. Furthermore, they could be differentiated into several lineages. This is very interesting for regenerative techniques based on cell therapy. This review will embark on describing their separation, and profiling. We will specifically describe the USCs characteristics, in addition to their differentiation potential. Then, we will introduce and explore the primary uses of USCs. These involve thier utilization as a platform to produce stem cells, however, we shall concentrate on the utilization of USCs for therapeutic, and regenerative orofacial applications, providing an in-depth evaluation of this purpose. The final portion will address the limitations and challenges of their implementation in regenerative dentistry.
PubMed: 38945084
DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117005 -
Journal of Experimental Child Psychology Jun 2024Despite substantial research, the contribution of oral language skills acquired in Spanish to Spanish-English bilingual children's acquisition of English reading skill...
Despite substantial research, the contribution of oral language skills acquired in Spanish to Spanish-English bilingual children's acquisition of English reading skill is unclear. The current study addressed this question with data on the oral language and pre-literacy skills of 101 Spanish-English bilingual learners at 5 years of age and their English word reading (i.e., decoding) and reading comprehension skills at 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 years. Separate multilevel models using English language, Spanish language, and pre-literacy skills as predictors of these outcomes identified English phonological awareness, Spanish phonological awareness, and concepts of print knowledge as positive predictors of word reading. A final model including all these significant predictors found only Spanish phonological awareness and concept of print to be significant predictors. Significant predictors of reading comprehension in separate models were English vocabulary, Spanish phonological awareness, and concepts about print. In the final model, only English vocabulary and Spanish phonological awareness predicted English reading comprehension. These findings provide evidence that phonological awareness is a language-general skill that supports reading across languages, consistent with the common underlying proficiency model of bilingual reading development. The finding that only English vocabulary predicts English reading comprehension suggests that vocabulary knowledge is not part of a common underlying proficiency but is language specific in its value to reading ability.
PubMed: 38945070
DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2024.105993 -
Journal of Anxiety Disorders Jun 2024This review evaluates randomized controlled trials (RCTs) intervening on adult state anxiety (fear and emotional distress during dental treatment), chronic dental... (Review)
Review
This review evaluates randomized controlled trials (RCTs) intervening on adult state anxiety (fear and emotional distress during dental treatment), chronic dental (trait) anxiety or dental phobia (disproportionately high trait anxiety; meeting diagnostic criteria for specific phobia). Seven online databases were systematically searched. 173 RCTs met inclusion criteria, of which 67 qualified for 14 pooled analyses. To alleviate state anxiety during oral surgery, moderate-certainty evidence supports employing hypnosis (SMD=-0.31, 95 %CI[-0.56,-0.05]), and low-certainty evidence supports prescribing benzodiazepines (SMD=-0.43, [-0.74,-0.12]). Evidence for reducing state anxiety is inconclusive regarding psychotherapy, and does not support virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET), virtual reality distraction, music, aromatherapy, video information and acupuncture. To reduce trait anxiety, moderate-certainty evidence supports using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT; SMD=-0.65, [-1.06, -0.24]). Regarding dental phobia, evidence with low-to-moderate certainty supports employing psychotherapy (SMD=-0.48, [-0.72,-0.24]), and CBT specifically (SMD=-0.43, [-0.68,-0.17]), but not VRET. These results show that dental anxieties are manageable and treatable. Clinicians should ensure that interventions match their purpose-managing acute emotions during treatment, or alleviating chronic anxiety and avoidance tendencies. Existing research gaps underscore the necessity for future trials to minimize bias and follow CONSORT reporting guidelines.
PubMed: 38945067
DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2024.102891