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Background. Nitric oxide (NO) is an important vascular signaling molecule that plays a role in vascular homeostasis. A reduction in NO bioavailability is thought to contribute to endothelial dysfunction, an early risk factor for both cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Dietary nitrate, through the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway, may provide an alternate source of NO when the endogenous eNOS system is compromised. In addition to a role in the vascular system, NO may also play a role in the metabolic syndrome including obesity and glucose tolerance. Aim. To investigate the effect of long-term dietary nitrate supplementation on development of the metabolic syndrome in mice fed a high-fat diet. Methods. Following 1 week of acclimatisation, male (6–8 weeks) C57BL6 mice were randomly assigned to the following groups (10/group) for 12 weeks: (i) normal chow + NaCl (1 mmol/kg/day), (ii) normal chow + NaNO3 (1 mmol/kg/day), (iii) high-fat diet + NaCl (1 mmol/kg/day), and (iv) high-fat diet + NaNO3 (1 mmol/kg/day). Body weight and food consumption were monitored weekly. A subset of mice (5/group) underwent running wheel assessment. At the end of the treatment period, all mice underwent fasting glucose tolerance testing. Caecum contents, serum, and tissues (liver, skeletal muscle, white and brown adipose, and kidney) were collected, frozen, and stored at −80°C until analysis. Results. Consumption of the high-fat diet resulted in significantly greater weight gain that was not affected by dietary nitrate. Mice on the high-fat diet also had impaired glucose tolerance that was not affected by dietary nitrate. There was no difference in adipose tissue expression of thermogenic proteins or energy expenditure as assessed by the running wheel activity. Mice on the high-fat diet and those receiving dietary nitrate had reduced caecum concentrations of both butyrate and propionate. Conclusions. Dietary nitrate does not prevent development of the metabolic syndrome in mice fed a high-fat diet. This may be due, in part due, to reductions in the concentration of important short-chain fatty acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a viral liver disease characterised by oxidative stress and inflammation leading to fibrosis, liver injury, cirrhosis and increased risk of liver cancer and reduced quality of life (QOL). Antioxidant phytonutrients have potential to limit inflammation and reduce co-morbidities associated with CHC. This randomised, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of two naturopathic treatments consisting of antioxidant nutrients and herbal medicines against placebo on liver function and QOL in people with CHC. Methods A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in three Australian teaching hospitals in New South Wales. One hundred and eighteen participants with compensated CHC-related disease were recruited through liver outpatient clinics and randomised to one of three groups: silymarin; silymarin with 13 other antioxidants (SOX); or placebo. Study duration was 48 weeks: 24 weeks on active treatment or placebo, and 24 weeks follow-up post treatment. Outcome measures included alanine aminotransferase (ALT), F2-isoprostanes (oxidative stress), HCV RNA (viral load), FibroTest (liver damage), and QOL. Results The use of silymarin with antioxidants (SOX) achieved a higher rate of ALT normalisation (primary outcome) than placebo (P=0.02) or silymarin alone (P=0.003) at week 24. In addition, there was significant improvement in the Hepatitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (HQLQ) Mental Component Summary (MCS) in the SOX group (P=0.002). There were no significant changes in F2-isoprostanes, HCV RNA or FibroTest. Conclusions This study has shown that the use of a complex naturopathic herbal and nutritional treatment can normalise ALT and improve QOL in participants with compensated CHC-related disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on a study that examined the impacts of two naturopathic treatments with antioxidant nutrients and herbal medicines against placebo on liver function and quality of life in chronic hepatitis C patients. It was done in three teaching hospitals in New South Wales, Australia. Study duration was 24 weeks on active treatment or placebo and 24 weeks follow-up post-treatment. Silymarin use with antioxidants had a higher rate of alanine aminotransferase than placebo or silymarin.

Oxygen homeostasis is essential for the development and normal physiology of an organism. Hypoxia causes the mitochondrial electron transport chain to generate higher levels of reactive oxygen species resulting in oxidative stress. Hypoxia can be a direct consequence of hypoperfusion, a common vascular component among Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk factors, and may play an important role in AD pathogenesis. Beta-site amyloid-β A4 precursor protein-cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is responsible, with γ-secretase, for cleavage of the amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP) to produce amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide. A recent study observed that oxidative stress increases BACE1 expression via a regulatory pathway dependent on γ-secretase cleavage of AβPP and this increases Aβ peptide production. Zebrafish embryos represent normal cells in which complex and subtle manipulations of gene activity can be performed to facilitate analysis of genes involved in human disease. Here we identify and describe the expression of bace1, the zebrafish ortholog of human BACE1. We observe that the zebrafish AD-related genes bace1, psen1, psen2, appa, and appb all show increased mRNA levels under hypoxia. A dominant negative form of psen1 putatively blocking γ-secretase activity blocks bace1 upregulation under hypoxia. Hypoxia increases catalase gene mRNA indicating increased oxidative stress but we did not observe increased levels of F2-isoprostanes that indicate peroxidation of arachidonic acid, possibly due to relatively low levels of arachidonic acid in zebrafish. Our results demonstrate that upregulation of PSEN1 & 2, AβPP and the γ-secretase-dependent upregulation of BACE1 is an ancient, conserved, and thus selectively advantageous response to hypoxia/oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cytochrome P-450 arachidonic acid metabolite 20-HETE is central to the regulation of vascular tone, renal function, and blood pressure and is synthesized in the rat kidney in response to angiotensin II (ANG II) and endothelin-1 (ET-1). There are very few studies examining the cellular synthesis of 20-HETE in humans. We aimed to measure human neutrophil and platelet 20-HETE levels under basal conditions and after ANG II, ET-1, and calcium ionophore (CaI). 20-HETE was measured in human platelets and neutrophils after saline (control), CaI (2.5 μg/ml), and ANG II or ET-1 (10 nmol/l-1 μmol/l) incubations. The effect of cells, which were preincubated with the ω-hydroxylase inhibitor N-hydroxy-N'-(4-butyl-2-methylphenyl) (HET0016, 10 nM), ANG II types 1 or 2 (AT1 or AT2) receptor inhibition with irbesartan (1 μmol/l) or PD-123319 (1 μmol/l), or endothelin receptor subtypes A or B (ETA or ETB) receptor inhibition with BQ-123 or BQ-778 (100 nmol/l), was studied. Neutrophil and platelet content and release of 20-HETE was significantly increased by CaI and blocked by the ω-hydroxylase inhibitor HET0016. ANG II and ET-1 significantly increased neutrophil and platelet content and release of 20-HETE. ANG II increased 20-HETE via the AT2 receptor. ET-1 increased 20-HETE through the ETB receptor in platelets and both the ETA and ETB receptors in neutrophils. These studies show that human platelets and neutrophils synthesize 20-HETE in response to ANG II and ET-1. 20-HETE synthesis in both cell types was predominantly mediated via the AT2 and ETB receptors. Stimulation via these receptor pathways has generally been thought to be cardioprotective and requires further studies in clinical situations associated with low-grade inflammation or where ANG II and ET-1 are elevated to clarify the role of 20-HETE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examines the effects of the antioxidant flavonoid Pycnogenol on a range of cognitive and biochemical measures in healthy elderly individuals. The study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, matched-pair design, with 101 elderly participants (60-85 years) consuming a daily dose of 150 mg of Pycnogenol for a three-month treatment period. Participants were assessed at baseline, then at 1, 2, and 3 months of the treatment. The control (placebo) and Pycnogenol groups were matched by age, sex, body mass index, micronutrient intake, and intelligence. The cognitive tasks comprised measures of attention, working memory, episodic memory, and psychomotor performance. The biological measures comprised levels of clinical hepatic enzymes, serum lipid profile, human growth hormone, and lipid peroxidation products. Statistically significant interactions were found for memory-based cognitive variables and lipid peroxidation products, with the Pycnogenol group displaying improved working memory and decreased concentrations of F2-isoprostanes relative to the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Operating theatre personnel need to disinfect floors, other surfaces and sometimes their footwear with chlorine solutions in order to comply with Department of Health (DH) guidance on the safe method of dealing with blood spills. This study was designed to determine the effect of repeated applications of chlorine solutions to a new theatre clog manufactured from high density polyurethane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim/hypothesis: We assessed whether dietary supplementation with coenzyme Q10 improves endothelial function of the brachial artery in patients with Type II (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia. Methods: A total of 40 patients with Type II diabetes and dyslipidaemia were randomized to receive 200 mg of coenzyme Q10 or placebo orally for 12 weeks. Endothelium-dependent and independent function of the brachial artery was measured as flow-mediated dilatation and glyceryl-trinitrate-mediated dilatation, respectively. A computerized system was used to quantitate vessel diameter changes before and after intervention. Arterial function was compared with 18 non-diabetic subjects. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring plasma F2-isoprostane concentrations, and plasma antioxidant status by oxygen radical absorbance capacity. Results: The diabetic patients had impaired flow-mediated dilation [3.8 % (SEM 0.5) vs 6.4 % (SEM 1.0), p = 0.016], but preserved glyceryl-trinitrate-mediated dilation, of the brachial artery compared with non-diabetic subjects. Flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery increased by 1.6 % (SEM 0.3) with coenzyme Q10 and decreased by –0.4 % (SEM 0.5) with placebo (p = 0.005); there were no group differences in the changes in pre-stimulatory arterial diameter, post-ischaemic hyperaemia or glyceryl-trinitrate-mediated dilation response. Coenzyme Q10 treatment resulted in a threefold increase in plasma coenzyme Q10 (p < 0.001) but did not alter plasma F2-isoprostanes, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, lipid concentrations, glycaemic control or blood pressure. Conclusion/interpretation: Coenzyme Q10 supplementation improves endothelial function of conduit arteries of the peripheral circulation in dyslipidaemic patients with Type II diabetes. The mechanism could involve increased endothelial release and/or activity of nitric oxide due to improvement in vascular oxidative stress, an effect that might not be reflected by changes in plasma F2-isoprostane concentrations. [Diabetologia (2002) 45: 420–426] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Considering the efficacy of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) in inactivating bacteria, this study reports that zinc hydroxide chloride nanosheets (ZHC-NSs) are useful for this purpose. Materials & methods: The characterization of ZHC-NSs was performed using microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. The irritation test, acute toxicity test, and genotoxicity test of ZHC-NSs were evaluated and their effects on human pulp fibroblast cells (HPFC) viability, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and antibacterial activity of ZHC-NSs (1–8 mg ml−1) alone or in light conditions were investigated. Results: The ZHC-NSs structure showed a crystalline form and their sheets' thickness had an average size of 129.6 ± 19.50 nm. ZHC-NSs did not severely damage internal organs and were not genotoxic. The cytotoxic effect of ZHC-NSs on HPFC was concentration-dependent so that ZHC-NSs at higher concentrations (4 and 8 mg ml−1) killed half of the HPFC cells. When ZHC-NSs were used in combination with a 980 nm diode laser, namely ZHC-NS©, ROS production increased and led to enhanced antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans in planktonic and biofilm form. A statistically significant difference was found between ZHC-NSs without laser irradiation and photoexcited ZHC-NSs. Conclusion: ZHC-NSs© with the potential ability to produce ROS could be effective in complementary treatment against S. mutans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study provided a novel examination of how children's theory of mind (ToM) might be related to two maternal beliefs: (1) social dominance orientation (SDO: the belief that inequalities in society are justified) and (2) right-wing authoritarianism (RWA: a belief in following established authorities). We reasoned that these beliefs could affect maternal talk in that mothers with high SDO and RWA would be less likely to use mental state (MS) talk to explore peoples' desires and feelings, particularly when talking about individuals of an outgroup (e.g., of a different ethnicity). As a consequence, there might be links between maternal beliefs and children's ToM. We measured SDO and RWA in mothers, gave children theory-of-mind tasks, and measured the MS talk of 79 New Zealand mothers when asked to describe pictures to their 2- to 5-year-olds. Mothers with high SDO and RWA provided less MS talk when describing individuals of a different ethnicity, and mothers with high SDO and RWA had children with a worse ToM. The present findings provide unique information regarding the role of parent beliefs in children's ToM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supplementation with pine bark extract (PBE) may improve risk factors associated with cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS). The effects of PBE supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors were evaluated in this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: A comprehensive search of various databases was performed to identify relevant RCTs published up to September 2024. A random-effects model was employed for the meta-analysis, which included 27 RCTs with 1,685 participants. Results: The findings indicated that PBE supplementation significantly reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP) (weighted mean difference (WMD): -2.26 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI): -3.73, -0.79; P = 0.003), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD: -2.62 mmHg, 95% CI: -3.71, -1.53; P < 0.001), fasting blood sugar (FBS) (WMD: -6.25 mg/dL, 95% CI: -9.97, -2.53; P = 0.001), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (WMD: -0.32%, 95% CI: -0.54, -0.11; P = 0.003), body weight (WMD: -1.37 kg, 95% CI: -1.86, -0.88; P < 0.001), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (WMD: -5.07 mg/dL, 95% CI: -9.21, -0.94; P = 0.016) in the PBE-treated group compared to their untreated counterparts. However, no significant impact of PBE was observed on waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), or serum levels of insulin, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC). Conclusions: Supplementation with PBE may ameliorate specific cardiometabolic risk factors, as indicated by reductions in body weight, DBP, SBP, FBS, LDL, and HbA1c levels. This approach can be regarded as an adjunct therapeutic strategy for CMS management. Further high-quality trials with larger sample sizes and longer durations are required to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many bioactive components in plants are beneficial to health, and their contents in seeds and sprouts are much higher than those in mature parts. This study intended to uncover alterations in nutritional compositions of radish seeds following germination. It also aimed to evaluate the health-promoting potential of both radish (Raphanus sativus L.) seeds and sprouts by quantifying representative bioactive compounds and antioxidants across six varieties. The ultimate goal was to identify the optimal radish variety with these beneficial properties through the TOPSIS-entropy weight method. This study measured chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanins, glucosinolates (GLSs), total phenol (TP), vitamin C content, and antioxidant capacities (POD: Peroxidase; PAL: Phenylalanine ammonia lyase; T-AOC: Total antioxidant capacity) in seeds and sprouts of radish grew for 7 days. The GLSs content in seeds was 3 to 6-fold higher than that in sprouts; while contents of anthocyanin, sugar, and TP were much higher in radish seeds than those in sprouts. Chlorophyll, carotenoid content, and POD activity were significantly higher in sprouts than in seeds. Combined with the ideal solution similarity ranking preference method (TOPSIS) entropy weight method, M (Man Tang Hong) was the optimal radish variety. Sprouts generally outperformed seeds in terms of overall phytochemical composition and antioxidant capacities, except for M. Therefore, more sprouts are recommended to be consumed in daily life without choosing specific radish variety. In conclusion, this study supports the health-promoting properties of radish based on a comprehensive deciphering of the nutritional profile of radish seeds and sprouts, both of which are good sources of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondrial dysfunction represents a pivotal characteristic of numerous neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These conditions, distinguished by unique clinical and pathological features, exhibit shared pathways leading to neuronal damage, all of which are closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. The high metabolic requirements of neurons make even minor mitochondrial deficiencies highly impactful, driving oxidative stress, energy deficits, and aberrant protein processing. Growing evidence from genetic, biochemical, and cellular investigations associates impaired electron transport chain activity and disrupted quality-control mechanisms, such as mitophagy, with the initial phases of disease progression. Furthermore, the overproduction of reactive oxygen species and persistent neuroinflammation can establish feedforward cycles that exacerbate neuronal deterioration. Recent clinical research has increasingly focused on interventions aimed at enhancing mitochondrial resilience—through antioxidants, small molecules that modulate the balance of mitochondrial fusion and fission, or gene-based therapeutic strategies. Concurrently, initiatives to identify dependable mitochondrial biomarkers seek to detect pathological changes prior to the manifestation of overt symptoms. By integrating the current body of knowledge, this review emphasizes the critical role of preserving mitochondrial homeostasis as a viable therapeutic approach. It also addresses the complexities of translating these findings into clinical practice and underscores the potential of innovative strategies designed to delay or potentially halt neurodegenerative processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tannins, a diverse class of polyphenolic compounds, are widely present in a variety of plant-based foods and beverages, where they contribute significantly to flavor, astringency, and numerous health benefits. Known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties, tannins are associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Their bioavailability and metabolism are influenced by factors such as polymerization, solubility, and interactions with the gut microbiota. Tannin-rich beverages, including tea, wine, fruit juices, and cider, offer a range of health-promoting effects, including antioxidant, cardioprotective, and antimicrobial activities. In addition, tannins contribute significantly to the sensory and nutritional characteristics of fruits, nuts, and vegetables, influencing flavor, color, and nutrient absorption. The levels and efficacy of tannins are subject to variation due to factors such as ripeness and food processing methods, which can increase their impact on food quality and health. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the bioactive roles of tannins, their nutritional implications, and their sensory effects, highlighting their importance in both dietary applications and overall well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals frequently adopt others' perspectives both when interpreting language and when formulating their own responses in conversation. This experiment tested how participants used perspective information to resolve references for bare nouns in Mandarin. Specifically, it explored whether, when faced with two interlocutors, participants distinguished between each individual's perspective or considered both as a whole. Using a classical referential game, the study manipulated the visual perspectives of two partners. In Experiment 1, both speakers had the same seating direction and visual field, and the results showed that participants equally took their perspectives into account above chance levels, providing a baseline finding for referential resolution of Mandarin bare nouns in perspective-taking studies. In Experiment 2, both speakers had the same seating direction but one of them shared the larger portion of visual field with the participants. The results showed that participants took the perspectives of the two speakers independently, while also comparing the perspectives of both interlocutors to facilitate quicker and more accurate referential resolution. These findings demonstrate that perspective-taking is a complex and dynamic process, providing evidence for the study of perspective-taking in Mandarin and contributing insights into comprehension processing in multiparty conversations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interplay between oxidative stress and adipogenesis is a critical factor in the development of obesity and its associated metabolic disorders. Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) disrupt key transcription factors such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), impairing lipid metabolism, promoting adipocyte dysfunction, and exacerbating inflammation and insulin resistance. Antioxidants, classified as endogenous (e.g., glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) and exogenous (e.g., polyphenols, flavonoids, and vitamins C and E), are pivotal in mitigating these effects by restoring redox balance and preserving adipocyte functionality. Endogenous antioxidants neutralize ROS and safeguard cellular structures; however, under heightened oxidative stress, these defenses are often insufficient, necessitating dietary supplementation. Exogenous antioxidants derived from plant-based sources, such as polyphenols and vitamins, act through direct ROS scavenging, upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, and modulation of key signaling pathways like nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and PPARγ, reducing lipid peroxidation, inflammation, and adipocyte dysfunction. Furthermore, they influence epigenetic regulation and transcriptional networks to restore adipocyte differentiation and limit lipid accumulation. Antioxidant-rich diets, including the Mediterranean diet, are strongly associated with improved metabolic health, reduced obesity rates, and enhanced insulin sensitivity. Advances in personalized antioxidant therapies, guided by biomarkers of oxidative stress and supported by novel delivery systems, present promising avenues for optimizing therapeutic interventions. This review, "Crosstalk Between Antioxidants and Adipogenesis: Mechanistic Pathways and Their Role in Metabolic Health", highlights the mechanistic pathways by which antioxidants regulate oxidative stress and adipogenesis to enhance metabolic health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(Poly)phenols are a wide and heterogeneous class of substances with several potential health benefits. Their role in neuroprotection and cognition is still questionable. This study's scope is to examine the possible association between total and individual (poly)phenol intake, major dietary sources, and the severity of multiple sclerosis (MS) in a cohort of MS patients. Participants' demographics, physical activity, smoking, and dietary information were collected, alongside clinical parameters including the Expanded Disability Status Score (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS), MS phenotype, and current therapy. A validated 110-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess participants' habits. The (poly)phenol content of foods was estimated using the Phenol-Explorer database. Data from 106 participants were analyzed. A high intake of vegetables was associated with a 4.6-fold higher probability of mild MS (95% CI: 1.49, 14.28), whereas no association was found for other food and beverage sources. Hydroxycinnamic acids were significantly related to MSSS (OR: 6.55, 95% CI: 2.15, 19.92). Although coffee intake differed significantly between patients with mild and severe MS (90.5 ± 53.9 vs. 59.4 ± 40.8 mL/d, respectively), linear regression analysis did not confirm an association with MSSS. A higher intake of hydroxycinnamic acids and vegetables may impact MS severity. Coffee's role remains unclear and needs to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teachers' feelings of occupational or professional value (that is, the subjective experience of feeling a sense of competence or enjoyment derived from undertaking occupational activities or tasks) can significantly influence the retention of the workforce. The United Kingdom (UK) is currently undergoing a teacher shortage, which, despite efforts to strengthen recruitment, has failed to reduce attrition rates to an acceptable level. Through the lived experience of UK primary school teachers, this study aims to deepen our understanding of occupational value. It explores the various factors that shape this value while also examining the ways in which accountability measures influence these dynamics. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 UK primary school teachers. A thematic analysis revealed three main influential themes: Holistic Wellbeing; Professional Wellbeing; and Educational Dynamics. These results emphasise the importance of occupational value for the recruitment and retention of high-quality teachers. They also indicate that supportive collaboration and constructive accountability can positively influence perceptions of occupational value as well as personal resilience. Further research is needed in this area to substantiate these preliminary findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing prevalence of viral infections and the emergence of drug-resistant or mutant strains necessitate the exploration of novel antiviral strategies. Accumulating evidence suggests that natural plant products have significant potential to enhance the human antiviral response. Various plant natural products (PNPs) known for their antiviral properties have been evaluated for their ability to modulate immune responses and inhibit viral infections. Research has focused on understanding the mechanisms by which these PNPs interact with the human immune system and their potential to complement existing antiviral therapies. PNPs control compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polyphenols to promote antiviral cytokine synthesis, increase T-cell and macrophage activity, and activate antiviral genes. Studies have investigated the molecular interactions between PNPs, viruses, and host cells, exploring the potential of combining PNPs with conventional antiviral drugs to enhance efficacy. However, several challenges remain, including identifying, characterizing, and standardizing PNP extracts, optimizing dosages, improving bioavailability, assessing long-term safety, and navigating regulatory approval. The promising potential of PNPs is being explored to develop new, effective, and natural antiviral therapies. This review outlines a framework for an integrative approach to connect the full potential of PNPs in combating viral infections and improving human health. By combining natural plant products with conventional antiviral treatments, more effective and sustainable management of viral diseases can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) causes significant morbidity and mortality globally. Most of the chemicals specifically target certain pathways and minimally impact other diseases associated with ASCVD. Moreover, interactions of these drugs can cause toxic reactions. Consequently, the exploration of multi-targeted and safe medications for treating and preventing ASCVD has become an increasingly popular trend. Gallic acid (GA), a natural secondary metabolite found in various fruits, plants, and nuts, has demonstrated potentials in preventing and treating ASCVD, in addition to its known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It alleviates the entire process of atherosclerosis (AS) by reducing oxidative stress, improving endothelial dysfunction, and inhibiting platelet activation and aggregation. Additionally, GA can treat ASCVD-related diseases, such as coronary heart disease (CHD) and cerebral ischemia. However, the pharmacological actions of GA in the prevention and treatment of ASCVD have not been comprehensively reviewed, which limits its clinical development. This review primarily summarizes the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological actions of GA on the related risk factors of ASCVD, AS, and ASCVD. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive overview of the toxicity, extraction, synthesis, pharmacokinetics, and pharmaceutics of GA,aimed to enhance understanding of its clinical applications and further research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The choroid plexus is located in the cerebral ventricles. It consists of a stromal core and a single layer of cuboidal epithelial cells that forms the blood-cerebrospinal barrier. The main function of the choroid plexus is to produce cerebrospinal fluid. Subarachnoid hemorrhage due to aneurysm rupture is a devastating type of hemorrhagic stroke. Following subarachnoid hemorrhage, blood and the blood degradation products that disperse into the cerebrospinal fluid come in direct contact with choroid plexus epithelial cells. The aim of the current study was to elucidate the pathophysiological cascades responsible for the inflammatory reaction that is seen in the choroid plexus following subarachnoid hemorrhage. Methods: Subarachnoid hemorrhage was induced in rats by injecting non-heparinized autologous blood to the cisterna magna. Increased intracranial pressure following subarachnoid hemorrhage was modeled by using artificial cerebrospinal fluid instead of blood. Subarachnoid hemorrhage and artificial cerebrospinal fluid animals were left to survive for 1, 3, 7 and 14 days. Immunohistochemical staining of TLR4, TLR9, FPR2, CCL2, TNFα, IL-1β, CCR2 and CX3CR1 was performed on the cryostat sections of choroid plexus tissue. The level of TLR4, TLR9, FPR2, CCL2, TNFα, IL-1β was detected by measuring immunofluorescence intensity in randomly selected epithelial cells. The number of CCR2 and CX3CR1 positive cells per choroid plexus area was manually counted. Immunohistochemical changes were confirmed by Western blot analyses. Results: Immunohistochemical methods and Western blot showed increased levels of TLR9 and a slight increase in TLR4 and FRP2 following both subarachnoid hemorrhage as well as the application of artificial cerebrospinal fluid over time, although the individual periods were different. The levels of TNFα and IL-1β increased, while CCL2 level decreased slightly. Accumulation of macrophages positive for CCR2 and CX3CR1 was found in all periods after subarachnoid hemorrhage as well as after the application of artificial cerebrospinal fluid. Discussion: Our results suggest that the inflammation develops in the choroid plexus and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier in response to blood components as well as acutely increased intracranial pressure following subarachnoid hemorrhage. These pro-inflammatory changes include accumulation in the choroid plexus of pro-inflammatory cytokines, innate immune receptors, and monocyte-derived macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective stormwater management is increasingly vital due to climate change impacts, such as intensified rainfall and flooding. Urban expansion, water scarcity, and intensified agriculture demand innovative solutions like Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI), including vegetated biofilters, green roofs, wetlands, bioretention systems, and high-rate filtration. These systems, enhanced by natural and engineered filter materials, improve contaminant removal across diverse contexts. Modern practices prioritize retention, infiltration, and groundwater recharge over traditional rapid drainage, reframing stormwater as a resource amid rising extreme weather events. In water-scarce regions, stormwater management offers dual-use potential for drinking and non-drinking applications, addressing freshwater scarcity exacerbated by population growth and climate change. Targeting the "first flush" of pollutants after rainfall allows for more efficient, cost-effective treatment. This paper identifies three key objectives: addressing GSI limitations and exploring new technologies, evaluating treatment train combinations for cost-effective reuse, and advancing urban stormwater treatment research. Various filter media, such as those in green roofs, bioretention systems, and swales, effectively remove pollutants like nutrients, heavy metals, PAHs, and micropollutants. Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters excel at reducing heavy metals and dissolved organic carbon (DOC), with pre-screening via anthracite filters to extend GAC lifespan by trapping sediments and pollutants. Managing emerging contaminants and microplastics remains underexplored and requires further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a serious metabolic disorder, is a worldwide health problem due to the alarming rise in prevalence and elevated morbidity and mortality. Chronic hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and ineffective insulin effect and secretion are hallmarks of T2DM, leading to many serious secondary complications. These include, in particular, cardiovascular disorders, diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy and retinopathy, diabetic foot, osteoporosis, liver damage, susceptibility to infections and some cancers. Polyphenols such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, tannins, and lignans constitute an extensive and heterogeneous group of phytochemicals in fresh fruits, vegetables and their products. Various in vitro studies, animal model studies and available clinical trials revealed that flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, epicatechin, genistein, daidzein, anthocyanins), phenolic acids (e.g., chlorogenic, caffeic, ellagic, gallic acids, curcumin), stilbenes (e.g., resveratrol), tannins (e.g., procyanidin B2, seaweed phlorotannins), lignans (e.g., pinoresinol) have the ability to lower hyperglycemia, enhance insulin sensitivity and improve insulin secretion, scavenge reactive oxygen species, reduce chronic inflammation, modulate gut microbiota, and alleviate secondary complications of T2DM. The interaction between polyphenols and conventional antidiabetic drugs offers a promising strategy in the management and treatment of T2DM, especially in advanced disease stages. Synergistic effects of polyphenols with antidiabetic drugs have been documented, but also antagonistic interactions that may impair drug efficacy. Therefore, additional research is required to clarify mutual interactions in order to use the knowledge in clinical applications. Nevertheless, dietary polyphenols can be successfully applied as part of supportive treatment for T2DM, as they reduce both obvious clinical symptoms and secondary complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is a significant and severe complication of diabetes that affects a large portion of the global population, with its prevalence continuing to rise. Secondary metabolites, including quercetin, have shown promising effects in mitigating the progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy by targeting multiple pathological mechanisms, including impaired insulin signaling, glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, apoptosis, autophagy, mitochondrial dysfunction, cardiac stiffness, and disrupted calcium handling. Addressing these mechanisms is crucial to prevent left ventricular diastolic and systolic dysfunction in advanced stages of diabetic heart disease. Scientific evidence has highlighted the cardioprotective properties of quercetin at both the myocardial and cellular/molecular levels in diabetic models. Therefore, this review aims to present a comprehensive overview of the proposed mechanisms underlying quercetin's beneficial effects, providing valuable insights that could inform future drug discovery efforts specific to diabetic cardiomyopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to identify how Nicole Galland's novel I, Iago is considered an adaptation of William Shakespeare's play Othello in terms of race, class, and the representation of women. Additionally, the study attempts to compare and contrast the adaptation and the source play in terms of the themes of race, class, and the representation of women. To achieve the objectives of the study, the novel is analyzed through the theory of adaptation. The study concludes with an examination of how Galland's I, Iago adhered faithfully to the events portrayed in Shakespeare's play Othello, while also illuminating the ambiguities inherent in Shakespeare's titular work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pain during movement screens is a risk factor for musculoskeletal injury (MSKI). Movement screens often require specialized or clinical expertise and large amounts of time to administer. Evaluate if self-reported pain (1) with movement clearing screens is a risk factor for any MSKI, (2) with movement clearing screens is a risk factor for body region–specific MSKIs, and (3) with a greater number of movement clearing screens progressively increases MSKI risk. Retrospective cohort study. Field-based. Military service members (n = 4222). Active-duty service members self-reported pain during movement clearing screens (Shoulder Clearing, Spinal Extension, Squat-Jump-Land). Musculoskeletal injury data were abstracted up to 180 days post-screening. A traffic light model grouped service members if they self-reported pain during 0 (Green), 1 (Amber), 2 (Red), or 3 (Black) movement clearing screens. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for age, gender, body mass index, and prior MSKI determined the relationships between pain during movement clearing screens with any and body region–specific MSKIs. Service members self-reporting pain during the Shoulder Clearing (adjusted hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval [HRadj (95% CI)] = 1.58 [1.37, 1.82]), Spinal Extension (HRadj = 1.48 [1.28, 1.87]), or Squat-Jump-Land (HRadj = 2.04 [1.79, 2.32]) tests were more likely to experience any MSKI than service members reporting no pain. Service members with pain during the Shoulder Clearing (HRadj = 3.28 [2.57, 4.19]), Spinal Extension (HRadj = 2.80 [2.26, 3.49]), or Squat-Jump-Land (HRadj = 2.07 [1.76, 2.43]) tests were more likely to experience an upper extremity, spine, back, and torso, or lower extremity MSKI, respectively, than service members reporting no pain. The Amber (HRadj = 1.69 [1.48, 1.93]), Red (HRadj = 2.07 [1.73, 2.48]), and Black (HRadj = 2.31 [1.81, 2.95]) cohorts were more likely to experience an MSKI than the Green cohort. Self-report movement clearing screens in combination with a traffic light model provide clinician- and nonclinician-friendly expedient means to identify service members at MSKI risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]