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Populations undergoing extensive and rapid socio-economic transitions including historically disadvantaged communities face an increased risk of type-2 diabetes (T2D). In recent years, sedentary behavior and physical inactivity have been considered modifiable determinants when developing primary prevention programs to reduce T2D incidence. Reunion Island is a French overseas department with an increasing T2D population and a high level of socio-economic inequality. The objectives of our study were to identify the individual, social, and environmental factors associated with sedentary behavior and physical inactivity among the Reunion Island adult population, and to highlight these findings in order to propose T2D primary prevention strategies aiming at alleviating local social inequalities in health (SIH). In 2021, we conducted a population-based cross-sectional telephone survey using random sampling. Participants included adults over 15 years old living in ordinary accommodation on Reunion Island (n = 2,010). Using a sequential approach, multinomial logistic regression model (explaining 3 profiles of interest: sedentary/inactive, sedentary/active, non-sedentary/inactive), and sampling-design weighted estimates, we found that 53.9% [95% confidence interval: 51.1 to 56.7%] of participants had sedentary behavior and 20.1% [95% CI: 17.8 to 22.5%] were inactive. Abandoning physical activity due to the COVID-19 pandemic (p<0.001), final secondary school diploma or above (p = 0.005), student as professional status (p≤0.005) and living in fewer poor neighborhoods located far from city centers (p = 0.030) were four conditions independently associated with sedentary/inactive and/or sedentary/active profiles. Based on these findings, to help reduce SIH, we used a typology of actions based on the underlying theoretical interventions including four main action categories: strengthening individuals (using person-based strategies), strengthening communities, improving living and working conditions, and promoting health-based macro-policies. Our findings suggest several directions for reducing lifestyle risk factors and enhancing T2D primary prevention programs targeting psychosocial, behavioral, and structural exposures., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Fianu et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive brain tumor, associated with poor prognosis and survival, representing a challenging medical issue for neurooncologists. Dysregulation of histone-modifying enzymes (HDACs) is commonly identified in many tumors and has been linked to cancer proliferation, changes in metabolism, and drug resistance. These findings led to the development of HDAC inhibitors, which are limited by their narrow therapeutic index. In this work, we provide the proof of concept for a delivery system that can improve the in vivo half-life and increase the brain delivery of Givinostat, a pan-HDAC inhibitor. Here, 150-nm-sized liposomes composed of cholesterol and sphingomyelin with or without surface decoration with mApoE peptide, inhibited human glioblastoma cell growth in 2D and 3D models by inducing a time- and dose-dependent reduction in cell viability, reduction in the receptors involved in cholesterol metabolism (from -25% to -75% of protein levels), and reduction in HDAC activity (-25% within 30 min). In addition, liposome-Givinostat formulations showed a 2.5-fold increase in the drug half-life in the bloodstream and a 6-fold increase in the amount of drug entering the brain in healthy mice, without any signs of overt toxicity. These features make liposomes loaded with Givinostat valuable as potential candidates for glioblastoma therapy.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a particularly challenging brain tumor characterized by a heterogeneous, complex, and multicellular microenvironment, which represents a strategic network for treatment escape. Furthermore, the presence of GBM stem cells (GSCs) seems to contribute to GBM recurrence after surgery, and chemo- and/or radiotherapy. In this context, intercellular communication modalities play key roles in driving GBM therapy resistance. The presence of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), long membranous open-ended channels connecting distant cells, has been observed in several types of cancer, where they emerge to steer a more malignant phenotype. Here, we discuss the current knowledge about the formation of TNTs between different cellular types in the GBM microenvironment and their potential role in tumor progression and recurrence. Particularly, we highlight two prospective strategies targeting TNTs as possible therapeutics: (i) the inhibition of TNT formation and (ii) a boost in drug delivery between cells through these channels. The latter may require future studies to design drug delivery systems that are exchangeable through TNTs, thus allowing for access to distant tumor niches that are involved in tumor immune escape, maintenance of GSC plasticity, and increases in metastatic potential.

A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the frequency of human parvovirus B19 (B19V) infected individuals, viral loads and immunity among blood donors from Argentina, in a post-epidemic outbreak period. B19V DNA and specific IgG were tested in minimum study samples of donors attending a blood bank at Córdoba, Argentina, in 2014. Anti-B19V IgM and viral loads were determined in B19V-positive plasma samples. Seven of 731 samples (0.96%) resulted positive, corresponding to individuals aged 32-53 years, four of them repeat donnors and three first-time donors. Viral loads were <10 3 IU/mL. None had IgM and 6/7 had IgG, one of them at a high level (in the range of 100-200 IU/ml, and the remaining 5 at low to medium level, 5-50 IU/ml). Thus one case was classified as acute infection (DNA+/IgM-/IgG-) and six as potentially persistent infections (DNA+/IgM-/IgG+). No coinfections with other pathogens of mandatory control in the pre-transfusion screening were detected. Prevalence of IgG was 77.9% (279/358). This study provides the first data of B19V prevalence in blood donors in Argentina, demonstrating high rates of acute and persistent B19V infections and high prevalence of anti-B19V IgG in a post-epidemic period. Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms/factors for B19V persistence as well as follow-up of recipients in the context of haemo-surveillance programs, contributing to the knowledge of B19V and blood transfusion safety., (© 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Objective: To evaluate two variables affecting Thyroglobulin stability in the washout of fine needle aspiration biopsies of thyroid nodules and metastatic lymph nodes., Materials and Methods: Thyroglobulin stability after storage at -20 °C up to 14 days was studied in washout performed with normal saline solution and further dilutions with normal saline solution from five metastatic thyroid nodes and six benign thyroid nodules. We also studied thyroglobulin stability in diluents compared with normal saline solution: 4% bovine serum albumin in normal saline solution and diluents free from thyroglobulin or Calcitonin or parathyroid hormone in paired and simultaneous thyroglobulin measurements of washout dilutions from 5/6 benign thyroid nodules and 2/5 metastatic lymph nodes. Thyroglobulin and Thyroglobulin antibodies were measured by a chemiluminescent assay. Positive samples with thyroglobulin antibodies in serum and/or washout were excluded., Results: Thyroglobulin decreased with storage in washout or dilutions of washout performed in normal saline solution (p < 0.05). Lower thyroglobulin concentrations, close to the commonly used cut-off (1.1 ng/mL), showed the highest decrease as soon as after 1 day of storage. Diluents other than normal saline solution stabilized thyroglobulin in dilutions of all washout., Conclusions: The results suggest that the reliability of thyroglobulin measurements in washout of fine needle aspirates could be preserved by immediate measure of thyroglobulin or the use of stabilizing diluents to perform washout.

This study evaluated the impact of silver particles, suspended in Arnica montana flower extract, on the physicochemical characteristics and release dynamics of antioxidant compounds in PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone)-based hydrogel systems. The hydrogels were synthesized via photopolymerization with fixed amounts of crosslinker (PEGDA) and photoinitiator, while the concentration of the silver-infused extract was systematically varied. Key properties, including the density, porosity, surface roughness, swelling capacity, and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), were quantitatively analyzed. The results demonstrated that increasing the silver content reduced the hydrogel density from 0.6669 g/cm3 to 0.2963 g/cm3 and increased the porosity from 4% to 11.04%. The surface roughness parameters (Ra) rose from 8.42 µm to 16.33 µm, while the WVTR increased significantly from 65.169 g/m2·h to 93.772 g/m2·h. These structural changes directly influenced the release kinetics of antioxidant compounds, with kinetic modeling revealing silver-dependent variations in the evaluated release mechanisms. This innovative approach of integrating silver particles and plant-derived antioxidants into hydrogels highlights a novel pathway for tailoring material properties. The observed enhanced porosity and moisture regulation underscore the hydrogels' potential for biomedical applications, particularly in wound care, where controlled moisture and antioxidant delivery are critical. These findings provide new insights into how silver particles modulate hydrogel structures and functionalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chirality and chiral phenomena associated with electromagnetic waves universally arise across many different forms, which involve transitions between states with opposite symmetries. Recently, adaptive chirality (the post-induced chirality in initial achiral environments by asymmetric guests) has undergone a burgeoning development owing to the multitasking features of tetraphenylethene (TPE) faces restricted in particular chemical buildings. Conceptually, initial achiral hosts bearing TPE commutable helical units (P/M forms) can interface with enantiopure guests to produce supramolecular asymmetric luminophores (CPL-active molecules). In these terms, a robust interpretation of these chiroptical events is yet to be computationally provided. In this study, we provide a solid and accessible computational workflow able to accurately predict the circularly polarized luminescence spectra of TPE-based hosts with stereogenic chiral guests (deoxyribonucleotide monophosphate homo-dimers, dipeptide homo-pairs and organic acids). In virtue of a preliminary DFT benchmark, we decided to use the ωB97XD functional to realize a conformational investigation of H-bonded chiral multicomponents encapsulated within TPE-based architectures in the first excited state by means of Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics. Finally, an extensive TD-DFT examination concerning exchange–correlation functionals and basis sets revealed the B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) level as the most precise and transferable method to meticulously model the CPL sign, band shape and peak position in TPE-based chiral reconfigurable host–guest complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a paucity of literature analyzing the impact of fatigue from actual competitive soccer match-play on measures of neuromuscular function and muscle damage markers in youth players. Aims The main purpose was to analyze the acute pre- and post-competitive soccer match-play changes in measures of landing mechanics, stretch-shortening cycle capability, physical performance, muscle damage, and match intensity. A secondary purpose was to explore whether the players' maturity status and chronological age were associated with post-soccer match-play responses. Methods Thirty-two male youth outfield soccer players from two chronological competition age groups (U14 and U16) were assessed pre-and post-competitive soccer match-play for 2D dynamic knee valgus at landing (DKV), leg stiffness, reactive strength index, 20 m sprint time, CMJ-Abalakov jump height, creatine kinase and urea activity and visual analogue scale for muscle soreness (VAS). Players' maturity status was also estimated using a previously validated regression equation. Results There were statistically significant (p < 0.05) post-competitive soccer match-play impairments in all measures of stretch-shortening cycle capability and muscle damage markers assessed irrespective of the age group. Likewise, significant post-match play alterations in landing mechanics (DKV of the dominant leg) and physical performance (sprint time and jump height) scores were documented for the U14 players. Significant interactions between maturity and landing mechanics and VAS responses to competitive soccer match-play were also found whereby more mature players demonstrated larger post-match changes. Conclusion The findings of this study suggest the existence of a negative influence of competitive match-play on neuromuscular function and muscle damage in youth soccer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embodied cognition asserts a symbiotic relationship between cognitive processes and the physical body, raising an intriguing question: could personality traits be intertwined with the biomechanical performance of the lower limb? This study aimed to explore this connection by examining how personality traits, assessed using the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), relate to lower limb rebound power (RP) measured through the five-repetition rebound jump test. Eighty participants completed two sessions: a biomechanical analysis of hopping using an Optojump® system to measure contact time, flight time, and RP, and a personality traits assessment categorizing traits across four MBTI axes: extraversion-introversion (favorite world); sensing-intuition (information processing preference); thinking-feeling (decision making); and judging-perceiving (structure). Participant characteristics did not significantly differ across MBTI axes (p≥0.07), minimizing potential confounding factors. Notably, individuals classified as intuitive showed significantly longer flight times (p = 0.02) and larger RP (p = 0.007) compared to sensing individuals, suggesting a greater reliance on the fast stretch-shortening cycle and showcasing superior use of their lower limb structures as springs. This suggests potential implications for sports performance, with intuition individuals possibly excelling in plyometric sports. However, no significant associations were found between biomechanical performance and the other three MBTI axes (p≥0.12), challenging the initial hypothesis. This research provides initial insights into the nuanced relationship between personality traits and movement patterns, indicating the potential for tailored physical interventions to enhance adherence and optimize responses in training programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We prove the existence of weak solutions for a class of second-order traffic models with relaxation, without requiring the sub-characteristic stability condition to hold. With the help of numerical simulations, we show how, in this unstable setting, large but bounded oscillations may arise from small perturbations of equilibria, thus reproducing the formation of stop-and-go waves commonly observed in traffic dynamics. An analysis of the corresponding traveling waves completes the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thyrotoxicosis is a cause of secondary osteoporosis. High concentrations of triiodotironine (T3) in Graves' disease stimulate bone turnover, but it is unclear if euthyroidism will always normalize bone metabolism. Thyrotropin (TSH) is known to affect directly the bone metabolism through the TSH receptor and TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb) may have an important role in bone turn-over.The aim of our study was to determine, in pre and postmenopausal euthyroidism patients with previous overt hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease the bone mineral density (BMD) as well as factors that could affect BMD in each group, including TRAb., Methods: Cross-sectional, non-interventional study. Fifty-seven patients with previous hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease (premenopausal: 30, postmenopausal: 27) that remained euthyroid for at least 6 months prior to study were included and compared with fifty- two matched respective controls. Thyrotoxine (T4), TSH, TRAb and BMD were measured., Results: Only euthyroid postmenopausal patients with a history of hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease showed lower whole body BMD than matched controls. The BMD expressed as Z-score was less in whole body and lumbar spine in postmenopausal in relation to premenopausal women with previous overt hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease.In the postmenopausal patients, the Z-score of lumbar spine BMD correlated negatively with TRAb (r = -0,53, p < 0.008), positively with the time of evolution of the disease (r = +0.42, p < 0.032) and positively with the time of euthyroidism (r = + 0.50, p < 0.008), but neither with serum T4 nor TSH. In a multiple regression analysis TRAb was the only significant independent variable in relation to lumbar spine BMD (F = 3. 90, p < 0.01)., Conclusions: In euthyroid women with a history of Graves' hyperthyroidism, BMD was only affected in the postmenopausal group. The negative correlation of Z-score of lumbar spine BMD with TRAb suggests that this antibody may affect the bone metabolism.

We herein studied whether arm-pointing movements from an upright posture (i.e. Belenkii's paradigm) toward various targets demanding a low degree of precision could influence associated anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) and subsequent arm movements. Six subjects were asked to use their right arm to point (without finger touch) to targets of 2, 4 and 8 cm in diameter (respectively, D2, D4 and D8). APAs were measured by recording the electromyographic activity of the right anterior deltoid and biceps femoris, as well as the kinematics of the right arm. Longer APA durations and lower values for the ratio between acceleration duration and total duration of the focal movement were observed for D4 compared to D2 and D8, whereas precision was constant across all three targets. Thus, the medium target seemed to engender an optimum motor strategy for accomplishing the accuracy and velocity requirements of the task. These results emphasize that subjects build perceptual representations of their environment as well as representations of the actions to be produced. We suggest that, even in this simple movement traditionally studied from a biomechanical perspective, APAs function not only to compensate for perturbations to equilibrium, but also reflect a cognitive representation of the precision requirements of the task.

We herein examined whether immediate muscular activity (active recovery) after stretching decreased stretch-induced strength deficits in human muscles. Our within-subject study included 8 subjects who were used as their own controls. For each subject, both legs were subjected to the same warm-up and stretching treatments, and then one leg was exposed to active recovery (experimental treatment) while the other was allowed to recover passively (control). Unilateral maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of knee extensors was measured at baseline, poststretching, and postrecovery to monitor strength evolution. Our results revealed that the MVC strength at the baseline time point for control (590.8 +/- 104.2) and treated (602.2 +/- 112.7) legs decreased poststretching by 8.0 and 8.9%, respectively, and further decreased postrecovery by 1.3 and 1.2%, respectively. Maximal voluntary contraction strength tests demonstrated very good reliability, having intraclass coefficients of correlation ranging from 0.92-0.98. Mixed analysis of variance showed that the stretching program yielded significantly increased flexibility (p < 0.01) and significantly decreased MVC (p < 0.001) in both legs. The over-time variability between legs was marginal (1%), and no significant between-leg differences were observed. Indeed, the improvement in strength restoration due to active vs. passive recovery was -0.5 +/- 15 N, which was significantly lower (p < 0.01; 1-tailed t-test) than the amount of strength inhibition (32.6 N), estimated as 60% of the overall strength deficit (54.3 +/- 29.7 N). These results confirm that significant strength is lost poststretching but fail to show greater improvement in strength following active vs. passive recovery. Collectively, the present findings indicate that, contrary to the belief of many coaches, muscular exercises during the poststretching period are unlikely to minimize stretch-induced strength deficits.

Background/Aims: High Monomeric Polyphenols Berries Extract (HMPBE) is a formula highly rich in polyphenols clinically proven to enhance learning and memory. It is currently used to enhances cognitive performance including accuracy, working memory and concentration. Methods: Here, we investigated for the first time the beneficial effects of HMPBE in a mouse model of acute and chronic traumatic brain injury (TBI). Results: HMPBE, at the dose of 15 mg/kg was able to reduce histological alteration as well as inflammation and lipid peroxidation. HMPBE ameliorate TBI by improving Nrf-2 pathway, reducing Nf-kb nuclear translocation and apoptosis, and ameliorating behavioral alteration such as anxiety and depression. Moreover, in the chronic model of TBI, HMPBE administration restored the decline of Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH) and dopamine transporter (DAT) and the accumulation of a-synuclein into the midbrain region. This finding correlates the beneficial effect of HMPBE administration with the onset of parkinsonism related to traumatic brain damage. Conclusions: The data may open a window for developing new support strategies to limit the neuroinflammation event of acute and chronic TBI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient drug delivery methods are crucial in modern pharmacotherapy to enhance treatment efficacy, minimize adverse effects, and improve patient compliance. Particularly in the context of glioblastoma treatment, there has been a recent surge in interest in using natural dietary components as innovative carriers for drug delivery. These food-derived carriers, known for their safety, biocompatibility, and multifunctional properties, offer significant potential in overcoming the limitations of conventional drug delivery systems. This article thoroughly overviews numerous natural dietary components, such as polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids, used as drug carriers. Their mechanisms of action, applications in different drug delivery systems, and specific benefits in targeting glioblastoma are examined. Additionally, the safety, biocompatibility, and regulatory considerations of employing food components in drug formulations are discussed, highlighting their viability and future prospects in the pharmaceutical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast tumor‐initiating cells (BTICs) of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) tissues actively repair DNA and are resistant to treatments including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy. Herein, it is found that a previously reported secreted protein, sclerostin domain containing 1 (SOSTDC1), is abundantly expressed in BTICs of TNBC cells and positively correlated with a poor patient prognosis. SOSTDC1 knockdown impairs homologous recombination (HR) repair, BTIC maintenance, and sensitized bulk cells and BTICs to Olaparib. Mechanistically, following Olaparib treatment, SOSTDC1 translocates to the nucleus in an importin‐α dependent manner. Nuclear SOSTDC1 interacts with the N‐terminus of the nucleoprotein, chromatin helicase DNA‐binding factor (CHD1), to promote HR repair and BTIC maintenance. Furthermore, nuclear SOSTDC1 bound to β‐transducin repeat‐containing protein (β‐TrCP) binding motifs of CHD1 is found, thereby blocking the β‐TrCP‐CHD1 interaction and inhibiting β‐TrCP‐mediated CHD1 ubiquitination and degradation. Collectively, these findings identify a novel nuclear SOSTDC1 pathway in regulating HR repair and BTIC maintenance, providing insight into the TNBC therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barbell squats are commonly utilized in resistance training for rehabilitation, daily living enhancement, and improving sports performance. The current study investigated the kinematic and electromyographic (EMG) parameters in the squat between sexes across different repetition ranges (1-, 3-, 6-, and 10-RM) among recreationally strength-trained subjects. A total of 26 subjects (13 men: age 25 ± 3.5 years, height 178.2 ± 5.8 cm, weight 82.3 ± 9.1 kg; 13 women: age 24 ± 4.1 years, height 165.4 ± 6.3 cm, weight 68.2 ± 8.7 kg) participated in the study. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. The findings revealed no sex-specific differences in average barbell velocity across repetition ranges. However, the 1-RM showed a significantly lower average velocity compared to the final repetition of other repetition ranges (p<0.001), with the last repetition at 10-RM revealing a significantly higher velocity (p<0.001). Women had greater maximal angular hip extension velocity in the final repetitions of the 6- and 10-RM (p≤0.035, ηp2≤0.20), while both sexes displayed lower maximal angular knee extension velocity in the final repetition of the 10-RM (p = 0.028, ηp2 = 0.15). Moreover, men had lower EMG amplitude in the rectus femoris (3- and 10-RM), soleus, and lateral vastus (10-RM) compared to women (p≥0.011, ηp2≥0.26). It was concluded that 10-RM differed greatly in kinematics and EMG, suggesting different fatigue mechanisms compared to other repetition ranges with heavier loads. Furthermore, sex differences in EMG and angular hip extension velocity might imply sex-specific fatiguing mechanisms during high-repetition squats. These considerations could be important when prescribing training programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a rare thyroid neoplasm characterized by aggressiveness and a high mortality rate. Troxerutin (Trox) is a bioflavonoid widely found in various fruits and vegetables with numerous protective effects, including anticancer activities. To evaluate the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of Trox, in vitro and in vivo studies were conducted in a model of ATC. Human ATC 8305C cell lines were treated with increasing concentrations of Trox (10 μg/mL, 30 μg/mL, 100 μg/mL, 300 μg/mL), and our results revealed that Trox treatment was able to reduce the viability of ATC cells and migratory capacity, reducing the expression of anti-apoptotic factors, such as B-cell lymphoma (bcl-2), and increasing the expression of pro-apoptotic factors, such as Caspase-3 and BID, activating oxidative stress mediators, such as manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species modulator 1 (ROMO-1). Furthermore, Trox modulates NF-κB pathway markers, such as NIK and TRAF-6. Further confirmation was obtained through in vivo studies, in which Trox treatment, at doses of 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg, reduced morphological alteration, decreasing mast cell accumulation. Therefore, the use of Trox could be considered a promising strategy to counteract the progression of ATC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

General and local muscular fatigue is postulated to negatively alter lower limb biomechanics; however, few prospective studies have been done to examine the effect of fatigue on tuck-jump performance. The tuck-jump assessment (TJA) is a criteria-based visual screening tool designed to identify neuromuscular deficits associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Use of kinetics during the TJA after an intense sport-specific fatigue protocol may identify fatigue-induced neuromuscular deficits associated with ACL injury risk. To examine the effects of a sport-specific fatigue protocol on visually evidenced (2-dimensional) technical performance of repeated tuck jumps and lower limb kinetic stabilization. Cross-sectional study. Laboratory. Twelve female netball athletes (age = 20.8 ± 2.6 years, height = 170.0 ± 0.04 cm, mass = 67.5 ± 7.4 kg). Participants performed 1 set of a TJA before and after a sport-specific fatigue protocol. Paired t tests and effect sizes were used to evaluate differences and the magnitude of differences in TJA scoring criterion, kinetics, and kinetic stabilization prefatigue to postfatigue. A small increase was observed for vertical relative lower extremity stiffness postfatigue (P =.005; Hedges g = 0.45). Peak center-of-mass displacement, time of jump cycle, ground contact time, flight time, jump height, and vertical net impulse decreased with small to moderate effect sizes (P <.01; Hedges g range, 0.41–0.74). No differences were observed for TJA composite scores, peak vertical ground reaction force, and stabilization indices of kinetic variables after the fatigue protocol (P >.05). Kinetic analysis of repeated tuck jumps after a fatigue protocol identified an altered jumping strategy, which was not identifiable via visual 2-dimensional assessment. However, based on kinetic measures, fatigue induces a stiffer jumping strategy, and practitioners should consider assessing load attenuation strategies that may not be visually evident when evaluating ACL-injury risk factors in athletes who are fatigued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Force-velocity (F-V) relationship models gained popularity as a tool for muscle mechanical assessment. However, it is not clear whether the validity of the F-V relationship parameters (maximal theoretical force [ F 0], velocity [ V 0] and power [ P max]) is affected using different load types: gravitational (W, rubber bands pulling the barbell downward), inertial (I, rubber bands pulling the barbell, which is equalized to the weight of the added plates upward), and combined (W + I, weight of the plates). Hypothesis: Load type would affect both the magnitude and validity of F-V relationship parameters. The highest magnitude and validity was expected for F 0 using a W, for V 0 using an I, and for P max using a W + I load. Study Design: Cross-sectional. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: A total of 13 resistance-trained men (body mass, 87.7 ± 11.2 kg and body height, 183.9 ± 6.4 cm) performed bench press (BP) throws (BPTs) using 3 types of loads against 30 to 80 kg. The validity of F-V relationship parameters was explored with respect to the tests used traditionally for force (maximal voluntary contraction and 1-repetition maximum [1RM]), velocity (maximal velocity achieved during almost unloaded tasks), and power (BPT against the 50%1RM and medicine ball throws) assessment. Results: The W + I loading promoted the highest values of F 0 and P max, while the highest magnitude of V 0 was promoted by the I loading. The validity was acceptable for F 0 obtained using the 3 loading conditions with respect to the BP 1RM (r range, 0.30-0.83), and V 0 obtained using the I loading with respect to the stick throw (r = 0.54). Conclusion: The magnitude of the F-V relationship parameters is affected by load type, but their validity with respect to standardized tests is comparable, with the exception of the higher validity of V 0 when obtained using the I loading. Clinical Relevance: Any load type can be used for assessing F 0, while I load should be selected when assessing V 0. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most specific rugby movements require an efficient stretch-shortening cycle (SSC). Reactive strength index (RSI) and leg stiffness have been considered a reliable measure of SSC capability and an indicator of ACL injury risk. The aim of this study was to assess and compare absolute leg stiffness (ALS) and RSI in amateur female rugby players from different countries. Methods: Players of three female rugby teams participated in the study: the female Czech team, the junior female Czech team, and the female university English team. Twenty repetitions of the submaximal bilateral hopping test were used for the calculation of ALS. RSI was obtained from 5 repetitions of the maximum hop test. Results: The values of the basic statistics were as follows: the female Czech team (median, mean ± SD): ALS, 25.3 kN·m-1, 25.4 ± 3.6 kN·m-1; RSI, 0.53, 0.60 ± 0.24; the junior female Czech team (median, mean ± SD): ALS, 22.7 kN·m-1, 23.1 ± 4.6 kN·m-1; RSI, 0.37, 0.42 ± 0.19, and the female university English team (median, mean ± SD): ALS, 22.7 kN·m-1, 24.0 ± 3.5 kN·m-1; RSI, 0.61, 0.59 ± 0.20. Only a between-group comparison of RSI of the female Czech team and the junior female Czech team (p = 0.04, r = 0.37, medium effect) showed significant differences. Conclusion: No significant differences between groups were found, except for Czech teams of different ages in RSI. The lower values of ALS and RSI compared to other studies can potentially be associated with a higher risk of ACL injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method to measure the leg stiffness in hopping and bouncing, with simple technical equipment and under field conditions, is introduced and validated. The leg stiffness (K (N)) was calculated from only contact and flight times measured by a contact mat. It was compared to the reference stiffness (K (R)) obtained from force platform measurements. Eight subjects performed, first, submaximal hopping movements at different frequencies (1.8 to 4 Hz, by step 0.2 Hz) and, second, maximal hopping. In sub maximal hopping K (N) was significantly correlated with K (R) (r = 0.94; p < 0.001) and the difference between K (N) and K (R) ranged from -7.2 % to 6.9 % (at 1.8 and 3.6 Hz respectively) with a limit of agreement of -1.5 kN x m (-1). In maximal hopping K (N) was also related to K (R) (r = 0.98, p < 0.001) and the inter individual rank order was respected (R = 0.87). It was concluded that the new method could be applied to study extensively intra individual and inter individual variations of leg stiffness in respectively sub maximal and maximal hopping and thus to simplify further investigations in field conditions of the role of stiffness regulation in the optimization of human locomotion.

Gemcitabine (2',2'-difluoro-2'-deoxycytidine, or dFdC) is a promising anticancer agent with demonstrated clinical activity in solid tumours currently undergoing clinical trials. Despite extensive studies on the biochemical mechanism of action, cell cycle perturbations induced by dFdC have not yet been thoroughly investigated, apart from the expected inhibition of DNA synthesis. The aim of our study was to clarify whether cell population kinetics is a vital factor in the cytotoxicity of dFdC in single or repeated treatments and in the dFdC-cisplatin combination. Ovarian cancer cells growing in vitro were treated with dFdC for 1 hr in a range of concentrations from 10 nM to 10 microM. Cell kinetics was investigated by DNA-bromodeoxyuridine flow cytometry, using different experimental protocols to measure either the time course of DNA-synthesis inhibition or the fate of cells in G(1), S or G(2)M at the time of dFdC treatment or 24 hr later. A modified sulforhodamine B test was used to assess the growth inhibition caused by dFdC given alone or with cisplatin. Although dFdC promptly inhibited DNA synthesis, cytotoxicity on proliferating cells was not specific for cells initially in the S phase. DNA synthesis was restored after a G(1) block of variable, dose-dependent length, but recycling cells were intercepted at the subsequent checkpoints, resulting in delays in the G(2)M and G(1) phases. The activity of repeated treatment with dFdC + dFdC or dFdC + cisplatin was highly dependent on the interval length between them. These results suggest that the kinetics of cell recycling from a first dFdC treatment strongly affects the outcome of a second treatment with either dFdC itself or cisplatin., (Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)

The purpose of this study was to describe the force/velocity and power/velocity relationships obtained during squat exercise. The maximal force (F0) was extrapolated from the force/velocity relationship and compared to the isometric force directly measured with the aid of a force platform placed under the subject's feet. Fifteen international downhill skiers [mean (SD) age 22.4 (2.6) years, height 178 (6.34) cm and body mass 81.3 (7.70) kg] performed maximal dynamic and isometric squat exercises on a guided barbell. The dynamic squats were performed with masses ranging from 60 to 180 kg, which were placed on the shoulders. The force produced during the squat exercise was linearly related to the velocity in each subject (r2 = 0.83-0.98, P < 0.05-0.0001). The extrapolated F0 was 23% higher than the measured isometric force (P < 0.001), and the two measurements were not correlated. This may be attributed to the position of the subject, since the isometric force was obtained at a constant angle (90 degrees of knee flexion), whereas the dynamic forces were measured through a range of movements (from 90 degrees to 180 degrees). The power/velocity relationship was parabolic in shape for each subject (r2 = 0.94-0.99, P < 0.01-0.0001). However, the curve obtained exhibited only an ascending part. The highest power was produced against the lightest load (i.e., 60 kg). The maximal power (Wmax) and optimal velocity were never reached. The failure to observe the descending part of the power/velocity curve may be attributed to the upper limitation of the velocities studied. Nevertheless, the extrapolation of Wmax from the power/velocity equation showed that it would be reached for a load close to body mass, or even under unloaded conditions.

Purpose: To compare the effects of variable-resistance complex training (VRCT) versus traditional complex training (TCT) on strength, power, speed, and leg stiffness (Kleg) in rugby league players during a 6-week mesocycle. Methods: Twenty-four rugby league players competing in the British University and Colleges Sport Premier North Division were randomized to VRCT (n = 8), TCT (n = 8), or control (CON; n = 8). Experimental groups completed a 6-week lower-body complex training intervention (2×/wk) that involved alternating high-load resistance exercise with plyometric exercise within the same session. The VRCT group performed resistance exercises at 70% of 1-repetition maximum (1RM) + 0% to 23% of 1RM from band resistance with a 90-second intracontrast rest interval, whereas the TCT group performed resistance exercise at 93% of 1RM with a 4-minute intracontrast rest interval. Back-squat 1RM, countermovement jump peak power, reactive strength index, sprint times, and Kleg were assessed pretraining and posttraining. Results: VRCT and TCT significantly improved 1RM back squat, countermovement jump peak power, and 5-m sprint time (all P <.05). VRCT also improved Kleg, whereas TCT improved 10- and 20-m sprint times (all P <.05). Between groups, both VRCT and TCT improved 1RM back squat compared with CON (both P <.001). Additionally, VRCT improved Kleg compared with CON (right leg: P =.016) and TCT improved 20-m sprint time compared with CON (P =.042). Conclusions: VRCT and TCT can be implemented during the competitive season to improve strength, power, and 5-m sprint time. VRCT may lead to greater improvements in reactive strength index and Kleg, whereas TCT may enhance 10- and 20-m sprint times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was done to determine whether leg stiffness (Kleg) during running was related to rearfoot-to-forefoot angle in standing (RFAst) and running (RFArun). Footprints obtained from 32 subjects were used to calculate RFAst and RFArun, defined as positive when forefoot axis was abducted from rearfoot axis. A spring-mass model was used to calculate Kleg in running from ground reaction forces, measured by a force platform. The Kleg of runners (13.0 +/- 2.7 kN x m(-1)) was negatively correlated with RFAst (-8.4 degrees +/- 6.4 degrees) and RFArun (-0.4 degrees +/- 7.2 degrees). When runners were divided into opened foot (RFArun > 0; N = 19) and closed foot (RFArun < 0; N = 12) groups, the Kleg of opened foot runners was less than that of the closed runners. We suggest that foot structure is a factor responsible for the differences in leg stiffness observed in runners.

The purpose of this study was to determine the possible mechanisms explaining the interindividual differences in foot orientations observed during running. Foot orientations, foot pressures, and ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion were simultaneously recorded on 12 male subjects running barefooted at 3.9 +/- 0.6 m.sec-1. The abduction of the forefoot was significantly related to the ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion velocities (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). Because it was not possible, from pressure measurements, to determine differences in foot lever arm of runners, it is suggested that the interindividual variability of foot kinematics could not be explained by Bojsen-Møller's model, but could reflect differences in the lower limb stiffness control.

Purpose: To evaluate the test–retest reliability of isokinetic leg-press power–force–velocity profile (P–F–v) parameters in male and female elite athletes. In addition, we determined the concurrent validity of leg-press against squat-jump (SJ) P–F–v parameters in task-experienced athletes. Methods: For test–retest reliability, 22 female and 23 male elite athletes (22.3 [4.1] y) with different sporting backgrounds conducted 3 isokinetic leg-press test sessions over 3 consecutive weeks. The testing consisted of bilateral leg extensions at isokinetic velocities of 0.1, 0.3, 0.7, and 1.2 m·s−1. For concurrent validity, 13 ski jumpers (20.3 [3.3] y) were recruited to perform the isokinetic leg-press and SJ P–F–v profile tests using 5 predefined loading conditions of 0%, +20%, +40%, +60%, and +80% of body mass. Results: Relative and absolute reliability were acceptable for female (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥.87 and coefficient of variation ≤6.5%) and male (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥.89 and coefficient of variation ≤5.7%) elite athletes. In contrast, concurrent validity was insufficient, with correlations ranging from −.26 to.69 between isokinetic and SJ P–F–v parameters. Conclusion: Irrespective of sex, isokinetic leg-press P–F–v profiles provide reliable parameters. However, leg-press P–F–v profiles do not serve as a valid substitute for SJ P–F–v profiles. P–F–v parameter magnitudes are likely dependent on the constraints of the tested movement and testing device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on young English language learners has been gaining popularity in recent years, but to this day remains underdeveloped. The present study aimed to add to this body of research by exploring the effects of visual arts activities implemented via comprehension and compared to more commonly used flashcard activities implemented via comprehension-based instruction on young English language learners' vocabulary acquisition and retention. The study specifically focused on very young learners who do not have access to the English language outside of the classroom. This study employed a withinsubjects counterbalanced design with young English language learners (N = 47) with a mean age of three years and eight months. The results provided evidence that both instruction types are highly effective in the productive and receptive learning of vocabulary among young English language learners. Furthermore, the positive effects of visual arts activities implemented via comprehension-based instruction on vocabulary retention were found to be significantly higher than those of the production-based instruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider the macroscopic limit for the space-time density fluctuations in the open symmetric simple exclusion in the quasi-static scaling limit. We prove that the distribution of these fluctuations converge to a gaussian space-time field that is delta correlated in time but with long-range correlations in space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of the last 399 years (1624–2023) on fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Mediterranean Sea was conducted, based on an extensive compilation of records published in the scientific literature, technical reports, public databases, journals, and social media. A total of 10,716 sightings and 575 mortality events have been computed, analysed by semesters and mapped in order to compare the summer–winter seasons especially and their implications on migration–residence. Visual and acoustic detections, feedings, migrations, primary production areas (chlorophyll), threats and causes of death and their relations have been addressed, and a mini-review on heavy metals and pollutants has been carried out on fin whales in the Mediterranean Sea. Mortality events were most frequent between November and April, coinciding with the decreased sighting period. Ship strikes posed the greatest threat, peaking between May and October, when marine traffic tends to increase in the Mediterranean Sea. Two populations coexist in the Mediterranean Sea, one resident and the other migratory, the latter using the Strait of Gibraltar for its biannual movements. Two areas with a presence of calves (up to 7 m in length) between October and February were detected: one scattered in the northern Mediterranean and the Strait of Gibraltar and its surroundings. A critical zone for collisions has been established according to the results for fin whales in the Mediterranean Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma, an aggressive primary brain tumor, poses a significant challenge owing to its dynamic and intricate tumor microenvironment. This review investigates the innovative integration of biosensor-enhanced organ-on-a-chip (OOC) models as a novel strategy for an in-depth exploration of glioblastoma tumor microenvironment dynamics. In recent years, the transformative approach of incorporating biosensors into OOC platforms has enabled real-time monitoring and analysis of cellular behaviors within a controlled microenvironment. Conventional in vitro and in vivo models exhibit inherent limitations in accurately replicating the complex nature of glioblastoma progression. This review addresses the existing research gap by pioneering the integration of biosensor-enhanced OOC models, providing a comprehensive platform for investigating glioblastoma tumor microenvironment dynamics. The applications of this combined approach in studying glioblastoma dynamics are critically scrutinized, emphasizing its potential to bridge the gap between simplistic models and the intricate in vivo conditions. Furthermore, the article discusses the implications of biosensor-enhanced OOC models in elucidating the dynamic features of the tumor microenvironment, encompassing cell migration, proliferation, and interactions. By furnishing real-time insights, these models significantly contribute to unraveling the complex biology of glioblastoma, thereby influencing the development of more accurate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Gliomas are deleterious central nervous system tumors that harbor cellular heterogeneity and infiltrative capabilities. They are biologically aggressive and highly invasive tumors that lack efficient treatment. Glioma stem cells (GSCs) are a subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) with the ability for self-renewal that is responsible for tumor plasticity. They show tumor-initiating properties, are influenced by genetic drivers and display great migratory abilities. GSCs engage in a synergistic relationship with the surrounding tumor microenvironment to promote tumor progression and therapy resistance. A great effort is under way in order to find ways to eliminate or neutralize GSCs. On a molecular level, glioma is very diverse and presents a whole spectrum of specific genetic and epigenetic alterations. The tumors are unfortunately resistant to available therapies and the survival rate is low. The explanation of significant intra- and inter-tumor heterogeneity and the infiltrative capability of gliomas, as well as its resistance to therapy, recurrence and aggressive behavior, lies in a small subset of tumor-initiating cells that behave like stem cells and are known as glioma cancer stem cells (GCSCs). They are responsible for tumor plasticity and are influenced by genetic drivers. Additionally, GCSCs also display greater migratory abilities. A great effort is under way in order to find ways to eliminate or neutralize GCSCs. Many different treatment strategies are currently being explored, including modulation of the tumor microenvironment, posttranscriptional regulation, epigenetic modulation and immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Microbes of sponges have diverse associations, including true symbiosis. Sponges, being evolutionarily ancient sessile filter feeders, host diverse and abundant microbial species that play crucial roles in host metabolism. Although the microbial symbionts of sponges are widely distributed within the organism (up to 40% of their volume), the ecological relationships and interactions between bacteria and their sponge host remain largely unexplored for many species. The present study was one of the first attempts to isolate symbiotic bacteria from the sponge Raspaciona aculeata. Materials and Methods: After isolation on marine agar medium, the isolates were characterized for different colony morphology. The 16S rDNA taxonomic analysis was carried out on bacteria isolates. Results: Following an incubation period of two weeks at 25°C, only 13 bacterial strains were isolated with a very low rate of genetic biodiversity. All strains belonged to the Gammaproteobacteria class (Pseudomonadaceae family), except one (isolate AL-18ra) belonging to the Bacilli class (Bacillaceae family). Conclusion: The obtained results are of great importance for advancing the understanding of symbiosis phenomena within the sponge species Raspaciona aculeata to study its bioapplication potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using linking and ∇ -theorems in this paper we prove the existence of multiple solutions for the following nonlocal problem with mixed Dirichlet–Neumann boundary data, (− Δ) s u = λ u + f (x , u) in  Ω , u = 0 on  Σ , ∂ u ∂ ν = 0 on  Σ , where (− Δ) s , s ∈ (1 / 2 , 1) , is the spectral fractional Laplacian operator, Ω ⊂ ℝ N , N > 2 s , is a smooth bounded domain, λ > 0 is a real parameter, ν is the outward normal to ∂ Ω , Σ , Σ are smooth (N − 1) -dimensional submanifolds of ∂ Ω such that Σ ∪ Σ = ∂ Ω , Σ ∩ Σ = ∅ and Σ ∩ Σ ¯ = Γ is a smooth (N − 2) -dimensional submanifold of ∂ Ω. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the short-term reliability of measurement instruments to quantify the acute psychophysiological response to load in adolescent soccer players in relation to biological maturity. Methods: Data were collected from 108 U12 to U17 soccer players on 2 consecutive weeks (pre, n = 32; at, n = 34; and post, n = 42 estimated peak height velocity). Measurements consisted of the Short Recovery and Stress Scale, a countermovement jump, assessment of leg stiffness, and a submaximal run to assess exercise heart rate and heart rate recovery. Test–retest reliability was assessed with the coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: Items of the Short Recovery and Stress Scale showed poor reliability across maturity groups (CV = 7.0%–53.5%; ICC =.28 to.79). Only few countermovement jump variables (jump height, concentric impulse, and concentric velocity) possessed good reliability. For most variables of the countermovement jump, reliability was better for the post peak height velocity group followed by at-peak height velocity and prepeak height velocity. Very high levels of reliability across maturity groups were observed for exercise heart rate (CV < 1.8%; ICC >.94), while heart rate recovery was more variable (CV < 16.5%; ICC >.48). Conclusion: Results suggest that the majority of investigated variables have poor reliability, questioning their ability to detect small, yet meaningful changes in acute responses to load in adolescent soccer players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was developed to carry out a comprehensive radiological assessment of natural radioactivity for river sediment samples from Calabria, southern Italy, and to define a baseline background for the area on a radiation map. In the studied area, elevated levels of natural radionuclides are expected, due to the outcropping acidic intrusive and metamorphic rocks from which the radioactive elements derive. To identify and quantify the natural radioisotopes, ninety river sediment samples from nine selected coastal sampling points (ten samples for each point) were collected as representative of the Ionian and the Tyrrhenian coastline of Calabria. The samples were analyzed using a gamma ray spectrometer equipped with a high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector. The values of mean activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K measured for the studied samples are (21.3 ± 6.3) Bq kg−1, (30.3 ± 4.5) Bq kg−1 and (849 ± 79) Bq kg−1, respectively. The calculated radiological hazard indices showed average values of 63 nGy h−1 (absorbed dose rate), 0.078 mSv y−1 (effective dose outdoors), 0.111 mSv y−1 (effective dose indoors), 63 Bq kg−1 (radium equivalent), 0.35 (Hex), 0.41 (Hin), 0.50 (activity concentration index) and 458 µSv y−1 (Annual Gonadal Equivalent Dose, AGED). In order to delineate the spatial distribution of natural radionuclides on the radiological map and to identify the areas with low, medium and high radioactivity values, the Surfer 10 software was employed. Finally, the multivariate statistical analysis was performed to deduce the interdependency and any existing relationships between the radiological indices and the concentrations of the radionuclides. The results of this study, also compared with values of other locations of the Italian Peninsula characterized by similar local geological conditions, can be used as a baseline for future investigations about radioactivity background in the investigated area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TSH-secreting pituitary adenoma (TSHoma) is the rarest functioning pituitary tumor, with an increasing incidence over the last decades. Diagnosis is often delayed, exposing patients to a high risk of developing chronic complications of long-standing hyperthyroidism. Although thyroid hormone excess is a recognized cause of secondary osteoporosis, very few studies have investigated skeletal damage in patients with TSHoma, with data limited to bone turnover markers (BTM) and a study on the prevalence of radiological vertebral fractures (VFs) incidentally detected on chest X-ray, whereas data on bone mineral density (BMD) are anecdotal. Bone resorption is increased in TSHoma compared to controls, whereas few case reports described osteoporosis and spine fractures as early complications of TSHoma. A high prevalence of morphometric VFs was described in TSHoma compared to nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA). Patients with fracture were older and had higher free thyroxine (fT4) levels than patients without fracture. In this specific setting, treatment with somatostatin receptor ligands seems to have a protective role on fracture risk. Based on this evidence, a comprehensive osteometabolic evaluation should be performed in all patients with TSHoma, including assessment of BTM, measurement of BMD, and morphometric evaluation of VFs, both at diagnosis and then during follow-up, particularly in patients at high risk for fragility fractures., Competing Interests: Declarations. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests. Conflict of interest: AG is Editor-in-Chief of Pituitary. SF received research grants to Institution from Abiogen Pharma, consultancy and speaker fees from Ipsen, Novartis and Pfizer, took part in advisory boards from Recordati and Novo Nordisk. AG received grants/scientific consultancy from Abiogen Pharma, Astellas, Chiasma, Genevant, Ipsen, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Recordati and research grants from Abiogen Pharma, Ipsen, Novartis and Pfizer. The other Authors declare that they have no conflicts of interests., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are fine, nanometer-sized membrane connections between distant cells that provide an efficient communication tool for cellular organization. TNTs are thought to play a critical role in cellular behavior, particularly in cancer cells. The treatment of aggressive cancers such as glioblastoma remains challenging due to their high potential for developing therapy resistance, high infiltration rates, uncontrolled cell growth, and other aggressive features. A better understanding of the cellular organization via cellular communication through TNTs could help to find new therapeutic approaches. In this study, we investigate the properties of TNTs in two glioblastoma cell lines, U87 MG and LN229, including measurements of their diameter by high-resolution live-cell stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy and an analysis of their length, morphology, lifetime, and formation by live-cell confocal microscopy. In addition, we discuss how these fine compounds can ideally be studied microscopically. In particular, we show which membrane-labeling method is suitable for studying TNTs in glioblastoma cells and demonstrate that live-cell studies should be preferred to explore the role of TNTs in cellular behavior. Our observations on TNT formation in glioblastoma cells suggest that TNTs could be involved in cell migration and serve as guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]