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Cancer Management and Research 2020With the gradual increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer, people's attention to thyroid cancer has also gradually increased. Although the prognosis of thyroid cancer... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
With the gradual increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer, people's attention to thyroid cancer has also gradually increased. Although the prognosis of thyroid cancer is rather mild compared to other cancers, it will still bring a heavy psychological burden on people who have been diagnosed. At present, the diagnosis of thyroid cancer mainly depends on ultrasound and percutaneous fine needle aspiration (pFNA). Due to the unsatisfactory accuracy of the diagnosis methods we use now, there are still some thyroid nodules that cannot be clearly diagnosed before surgery.
METHODS
In this article, we have searched for relevant research on blood markers of thyroid cancer in the past five years and categoried them into four groups.
DISCUSSION
Though we have not found a biomarker which can diagnose thyroid cancer both sensitively and specifically, we do found many substances that are related to it, and have the potential to recognize it and help the diagnosis. And perhaps combined models can do it better.
PubMed: 32753960
DOI: 10.2147/CMAR.S261170 -
Cureus Oct 2023Orthodontic treatment signifies a transformative journey for individuals seeking not only enhanced oral health but also a boost in aesthetics and self-confidence.... (Review)
Review
Orthodontic treatment signifies a transformative journey for individuals seeking not only enhanced oral health but also a boost in aesthetics and self-confidence. Nonetheless, the protracted timeline associated with conventional orthodontic care has been a persistent concern for both patients and practitioners. In this comprehensive review, we embark on an exploration of innovative strategies aimed at expediting orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). By doing so, we aspire to curtail treatment duration and mitigate potential risks, ultimately culminating in an elevated and more fulfilling patient experience. Traditionally, orthodontists heavily leaned on surgical techniques to hasten tooth movement. However, the recent landscape of orthodontics has been profoundly shaped by technological advancements and groundbreaking research findings, ushering in an era characterized by the embrace of minimally invasive approaches. These progressive methodologies encompass procedures like Piezocision, Discision, and Microosteoperforation (Alveocentesis). Beyond the obvious benefits of reduced patient discomfort, these techniques significantly truncate treatment periods, a development that addresses a primary concern of many patients. Moreover, this review delves into non-invasive alternatives, including cyclic vibrations, photobiomodulation, direct light electric current, and static or pulsed magnetic fields, as well as systemic and local administration of biological substances and hormones, all of which hold substantial promise in optimizing OTM. Furthermore, our exploration extends to a diverse spectrum of medications that have demonstrated their efficacy in expediting OTM. These encompass NSAIDs, acetaminophen, corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, herbal medicine biomaterials, and synthetic biomaterials like graphene dioxide. Every technique and medication is subjected to meticulous evaluation, taking into account its indications, contraindications, advantages, disadvantages, clinical implications, and limitations. Through this review, we endeavor to equip orthodontic professionals with a profound understanding of these innovative strategies. By doing so, we enable them to make informed decisions, tailored meticulously to meet the unique needs of each patient. In an ever-evolving field like orthodontics, staying abreast of these advancements becomes paramount, ultimately contributing to heightened treatment efficacy and enhanced patient satisfaction. The adoption of these innovative strategies not only holds the potential for improved clinical outcomes but also champions a patient-centric approach that could fundamentally reshape the landscape of orthodontic care.
PubMed: 37954770
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46824 -
Journal of Molecular Biology Jun 2021Protein phase separation has emerged as a novel paradigm to explain the biogenesis of membraneless organelles and other so-called biomolecular condensates. While the... (Review)
Review
Protein phase separation has emerged as a novel paradigm to explain the biogenesis of membraneless organelles and other so-called biomolecular condensates. While the implication of this physical phenomenon within cell biology is providing us with novel ways for understanding how cells compartmentalize biochemical reactions and encode function in such liquid-like assemblies, the newfound appreciation of this process also provides immense opportunities for designing and sculpting biological matter. Here, we propose that understanding the cell's instruction manual of phase separation will enable bioengineers to begin creating novel functionalized biological materials and unprecedented tools for synthetic biology. We present FASE as the synthesis of the existing sticker-spacer framework, which explains the physical driving forces underlying phase separation, with quintessential principles of Scandinavian design. FASE serves both as a designer condensates catalogue and construction manual for the aspiring (membraneless) biomolecular architect. Our approach aims to inspire a new generation of bioengineers to rethink phase separation as an opportunity for creating reactive biomaterials with unconventional properties and to encode novel biological function in living systems. Although still in its infancy, several studies highlight how designer condensates have immediate and widespread potential applications in industry and medicine.
Topics: Computational Chemistry; Macromolecular Substances; Models, Molecular; Phase Transition; Proteins; Synthetic Biology
PubMed: 33539874
DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.166837 -
Hormones (Athens, Greece) 2015The Sertoli cell is important for endocrine and paracrine control of spermatogenesis. Functions attributed to Sertoli cells are: (1) supportive and trophic functions for... (Review)
Review
The Sertoli cell is important for endocrine and paracrine control of spermatogenesis. Functions attributed to Sertoli cells are: (1) supportive and trophic functions for the cells of the seminiferous epithelium, (2) transport of mature spermatids towards the lumen of seminiferous tubules, (3) secretion of androgen binding protein, (4) production of substances with endocrine or paracrine action for spermatogenesis control and (5) interaction with intertubular endocrine Leydig cells. Inhibin B and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) are glycoproteins belonging to the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily; they are produced almost exclusively by the Sertoli cells and have been proposed as direct markers of their function and indirect markers of spermatogenesis. Serum inhibin B and AMH concentrations seem to constitute additional diagnostic parameters in male subfertility as they reflect Sertoli cell function. Stimulated concentrations of serum inhibin B and AMH do not add clinically relevant information in subfertile men compared to basal concentrations of these hormones. Serum inhibin B and AMH concentrations correlate with testicular histology/cytology but are not superior to FSH as predictors of the presence of sperm in testicular sperm extraction (TESE)/fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy in men with azoospermia.
Topics: Animals; Anti-Mullerian Hormone; Azoospermia; Biomarkers; Biopsy, Fine-Needle; Fertility; Follicle Stimulating Hormone; Humans; Inhibins; Male; Paracrine Communication; Predictive Value of Tests; Sertoli Cells; Signal Transduction; Spermatogenesis
PubMed: 26859601
DOI: 10.14310/horm.2002.1648 -
Journal of Inflammation Research 2023Endothelial cells (ECs) are widely distributed inside the vascular network, forming a vital barrier between the bloodstream and the walls of blood vessels. These... (Review)
Review
Endothelial cells (ECs) are widely distributed inside the vascular network, forming a vital barrier between the bloodstream and the walls of blood vessels. These versatile cells serve myriad functions, including the regulation of vascular tension and the management of hemostasis and thrombosis. Inflammation constitutes a cascade of biological responses incited by biological, chemical, or physical stimuli. While inflammation is inherently a protective mechanism, dysregulated inflammation can precipitate a host of vascular pathologies. ECs play a critical role in the genesis and progression of vascular inflammation, which has been implicated in the etiology of numerous vascular disorders, such as atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, diabetes mellitus, and sepsis. Upon activation, ECs secrete potent inflammatory mediators that elicit both innate and adaptive immune reactions, culminating in inflammation. To date, no comprehensive and nuanced account of the research progress concerning ECs and inflammation in vascular-related maladies exists. Consequently, this review endeavors to synthesize the contributions of ECs to inflammatory processes, delineate the molecular signaling pathways involved in regulation, and categorize and consolidate the various models and treatment strategies for vascular-related diseases. It is our aspiration that this review furnishes cogent experimental evidence supporting the established link between endothelial inflammation and vascular-related pathologies, offers a theoretical foundation for clinical investigations, and imparts valuable insights for the development of therapeutic agents targeting these diseases.
PubMed: 37641702
DOI: 10.2147/JIR.S418166 -
Clinical Ophthalmology (Auckland, N.Z.) 2022Capsular tension ring (CTR) realizes safe cataract surgery. However, residual cortex removal becomes difficult with CTR. Originally, the flushing technique was developed...
Capsular tension ring (CTR) realizes safe cataract surgery. However, residual cortex removal becomes difficult with CTR. Originally, the flushing technique was developed for intracameral antibiotic administration. Using this technique with larger amounts of solution enables surgeons to 1) deliver antibiotics to the anterior chamber and area behind the intraocular lens, resulting in stable, scheduled antibiotic concentration and 2) entirely irrigate and displace the area, leading to the effective cleansing of residual substances and bacterial pollution. When performing the flushing technique, the residual cortex and debris that were not eliminated by ordinary irrigation and aspiration can be pushed out to the anterior chamber. Applying flushing technique to CTR cases, the residual cortex and debris trapped between the CTR loop and capsular equator is lifted into the anterior chamber and easily removed. If the capsular bag is polluted by bacteria, it may also be lifted to the anterior chamber.
PubMed: 35422609
DOI: 10.2147/OPTH.S359319 -
Journal of Orthodontic Science 2022Ingestion is the entry of a substance into the human organism, which occurs by taking it through the mouth into the gastrointestinal tract. One of the adverse events... (Review)
Review
Ingestion is the entry of a substance into the human organism, which occurs by taking it through the mouth into the gastrointestinal tract. One of the adverse events that may happen during the course of an orthodontic treatment is the ingestion of orthodontic appliances. The present review aims to investigate the literature regarding the ingestion of orthodontic appliances. An electronic search was carried out in order to identify case reports of ingestion of foreign objects related to orthodontic treatment in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until July 2019.Nineteen articles were retrieved. In these articles, ingestion had occurred inadvertently, due to patients' or orthodontists' errors. Some of the most commonly ingested appliances were molar bands, segments of wire, and expansion keys. It is likely that patients with a specific medical background are more prone to ingestion of orthodontic appliances. Special precautions need be taken in order to avoid such incidents. These precautions are analyzed in three categories: general, those related to fixed appliances, and those related to removable appliances.
PubMed: 35754414
DOI: 10.4103/jos.jos_94_21 -
The Science of the Total Environment Aug 2023Anthropogenic activities generally consume non-renewable resources and release polluting substances into the environment. Concerning agriculture, the cropping systems... (Review)
Review
Anthropogenic activities generally consume non-renewable resources and release polluting substances into the environment. Concerning agriculture, the cropping systems are almost based on exploiting non-renewable resources. In recent years, increasing interest has been devoted to reusing agricultural, food and other biomass wastes, considered relevant as they can be seen as resources rich in compounds that can find numerous applications. Biomass biorefining has been successfully applied and has opened up sustainable alternatives to the disposal of agricultural, agroindustrial and food wastes. In this area, an emerging, smart and environmentally friendly way to reduce the impact of waste on the environment is to obtain innovative materials for agriculture. Therefore, as part of biobased strategies, the use of waste biomass to obtain biostimulants and biogenic nanoparticles for crops has recently been proposed. Some research has shown that appropriate biostimulants and biobased nanomaterials have the potential to counteract some of the problems that plague agriculture. The above materials can improve crop performance, enhance crop tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and improve plant nutrition. In light of the above, this review aspires, in the first part, to provide an overview of the ideas and central points that characterize the concept of bioeconomy and circular economy. In the second part, on the other hand, the most recent studies related to the valorization of various types of wastes leading to innovative biobased materials and their application in agriculture are presented. In particular, biostimulants and nanoparticles obtained through biogenic synthesis using agroindustrial and plant residues have been considered. In conclusion, the studies reported in this review show that the use of some biomasses to obtain the above materials represents a sustainable way of waste management and valorization, enabling innovative biobased materials for agriculture.
Topics: Waste Management; Agriculture; Crops, Agricultural; Nanostructures; Nanoparticles
PubMed: 37150469
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163912 -
The Journal of Primary Prevention Aug 2020Although HIV risk behaviors such as substance use and condomless sex are prevalent among people currently seeking or receiving services at substance use disorder (SUD)...
The Relationship Between Housing Status and Substance Use and Sexual Risk Behaviors Among People Currently Seeking or Receiving Services in Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs.
Although HIV risk behaviors such as substance use and condomless sex are prevalent among people currently seeking or receiving services at substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs, associations with housing status in this population have not been well studied. We examined the associations between housing status, substance use and HIV-related sexual risk behaviors among 1281 participants from 12 US community-based SUD programs. In addition, substance use was examined as a potential mediator of the relationship between housing status and sexual risk behaviors. We conducted Chi-square, univariate and multivariate logistic regression models on data from the National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network HIV Rapid Testing and Counseling study. Path analysis was used to test the mediation and indirect effects. Unstable housing was significantly associated with having multiple concurrent condomless sex partners, condomless sex with non-primary partners, and partners of unknown HIV serostatus. Homelessness was significantly associated with condomless vaginal sex and condomless sex with any substance use. The path between unstable housing and sexual risk behaviors was mediated by problematic drug use, particularly by cocaine, opioids, and marijuana use. Because housing status impacts HIV risk behaviors for individuals in SUD treatment programs, both housing status and substance use behaviors should be assessed upon program entry in order to identify and mitigate risk behaviors.
Topics: Adult; Female; Housing; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patient Acceptance of Health Care; Risk-Taking; Sexual Behavior; Substance-Related Disorders
PubMed: 32617888
DOI: 10.1007/s10935-020-00597-x -
Biomolecules Oct 2023Aging is a natural and inescapable phenomenon characterized by a progressive deterioration of physiological functions, leading to increased vulnerability to chronic... (Review)
Review
Aging is a natural and inescapable phenomenon characterized by a progressive deterioration of physiological functions, leading to increased vulnerability to chronic diseases and death. With economic and medical development, the elderly population is gradually increasing, which poses a great burden to society, the economy and the medical field. Thus, healthy aging has now become a common aspiration among people over the world. Accumulating evidence indicates that substances that can mediate the deteriorated physiological processes are highly likely to have the potential to prolong lifespan and improve aging-associated diseases. Foods from natural sources are full of bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides, polyphenols, carotenoids, sterols, terpenoids and vitamins. These bioactive compounds and their derivatives have been shown to be able to delay aging and/or improve aging-associated diseases, thereby prolonging lifespan, via regulation of various physiological processes. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the anti-aging activities of the compounds, polysaccharides, polyphenols, carotenoids, sterols, terpenoids and vitamins from natural food sources, and their modes of action in delaying aging and improving aging-associated diseases. This will certainly provide a reference for further research on the anti-aging effects of bioactive compounds from natural food sources.
Topics: Aged; Humans; Aging; Carotenoids; Polyphenols; Vitamins; Terpenes; Sterols; Polysaccharides
PubMed: 38002283
DOI: 10.3390/biom13111600