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Vitamin D (calciferol) is a key vitamin playing an important role in the regulation of the musculoskeletal, immune, cardiovascular and nervous systems. Vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for multiple brain disorders. Mounting evidence shows robust neuroprotective properties of vitamin D, as well as its ability to improve neuronal function and reduce brain disorders. Here, we focus on the latest clinical and preclinical (rodent and zebrafish) data on the role of vitamin D as a neurosteroid hormone, including its role in regulating the synthesis and functions of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors. A better insight into the role of vitamin D in brain function may lead to novel approaches to the treatment and prevention of vitamin D deficiency-related brain disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is based on a series of talks that the author gave at the University of Edinburgh in March 2023 on surfaces in positive characteristic. In particular, infinitesimal group schemes and their actions on algebraic surfaces are discussed, the structure of the automorphism group scheme of a surface of general type and the failure of the Kodaira vanishing theorem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Impacted third molars are associated with various degrees of damage to the second molars. The possible complications also include distal cervical caries, root resorption of second molar, periodontal problems, odontogenic cysts, etc. Whether a particular impacted third molar is going to affect second molar depends upon its position and orientation in the bone. Materials and Method: This study was carried out in 418 cases. Three examiners evaluated the patient clinically and radiographically and only those cases were included in this study where at least two observers agreed. A total of 341 cases (163 males and 178 female), age range (15–40 years) with impacted mandibular third molars, were included. Clinically and radiographically, the impacted mandibular third and second molars were evaluated; simultaneously, the prevalence of various pathologies associated with mandibular second molar (dental caries, periodontal pockets, root resorption) due to impacted third molar was also evaluated and compared among various types and positions of impactions. Results: Statistical analysis was carried out using Pearson Chi-square and Asymp. Sig. (two-sided) test. Prevalence of mesioangular impactions was maximum (50.1%). Mesioangular impaction and position B (Pell and Gregory classification) were significantly associated with dental caries (32.20% and 33.90%, respectively), and periodontal pockets were seen higher with position B impactions (26.8%) {horizontal (14.7%), disto-angular (12.10%), vertical (14.5%) mesioangular (16.4%%)} in adjacent mandibular second molar. Root resorption was seen maximally in horizontal impaction (17.30%) with position c type (12.30%). The order of pathologies associated with second molar due to impacted third molar was dental caries (19.9%) > periodontal pockets (15.2%) > root resorption (8.5%). Discussion: Evidence regarding pathologies are associated with second molar due to impacted third molar aids in decision making for surgical removal of third molars. Different types of impaction and the prevalence of pathologies related to them would aid in treatment planning of the impacted tooth as certain types have high probability of pathologies associated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While radiologists are familiar with the masticator space, the surgeons are more familiar with the infratemporal fossa (ITF). Though often used interchangeably, there exists a subtle difference between them, which needs to be understood. The close anatomical relationship of the infratemporal fossa to critical structures makes timely diagnosis vital. In this pictorial review, we present a spectrum of various pathologies affecting ITF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty types of conodont element pathology are considered, and the examples of Abrasio, Accessio, Caudatio, Depressio, Diminutio, Duplicatio, Fusio, Impressio, Jugatio, Occlusio, and Suppressio pathologies identified in the Devonian of the Voronezh Anteclise are illustrated in detail. All pathological phenomena are assigned to five genetic groups: (1) mechanical damage to hard tissue; (2) disturbances of hard tissue growth due to soft tissue damage; (3) genetic changes; (4) changes caused by diseases; and (5) the results of normal functioning of the conodont elements. The frequency of occurrence is analyzed for the various pathology types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathological phenomena in Devonian conodonts are separated into five genetic groups: (1) mechanical breakdown of hard tissues with and without subsequent regeneration; (2) deviation of the growth of hard tissues due to soft tissue breaking; (3) genetic changes; (4) diseases; and (5) results of normal functioning. Examples of the pathologies considered (Abrasio, Accessio, Caudatio, Depressio, Diminutio, Duplicatio, Fusio, Impressio, Jugatio, Occlusio, and Suppressio) are widely represented in the Devonian deposits of the Voronezh Anteclise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have indicated that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a fundamental role in the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues. There is strong evidence showing that much of the beneficial effects of these cells are due to the secretion of bioactive molecules—besides microRNAs, hormones, and neurotrophins—with anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, angiogenic, and trophic effects. These factors have been reported by many studies to possess protective effects on the nervous tissue. Although the beneficial effects of the secretory factors of MSCs have been suggested for various neurological diseases, their actions on astrocytic cells are not well understood. Hence, it is important to recognize the specific effects of MSCs derived from adipose tissue, in addition to the differences presented by the secretome, depending on the source and methods of analysis. In this paper, the different sources of MSCs and their main characteristics are described, as well as the most significant advances in regeneration and protection provided by the secretome of MSCs. Also, we discuss the possible neuroprotective mechanisms of action of the MSC-derived biomolecules, with special emphasis on the effect of MSCs derived from adipose tissue and their impact on glial cells and brain pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Before coming up with any important decision of intervention in the restoration process of existing buildings, the assessment of the conservation state is required as regards heritage timber structures and especially for those that suffered a lack of maintenance in their service life. In that context, three timber roof structures from the Convent of Christ in Tomar, Portugal, were selected and investigated. To this end, a research methodology was introduced and applied to these case studies into four main steps: (1) visual inspection; (2) non-destructive wood diagnosis; (3) structural safety evaluation; (4) prevention and intervention measures. For the visual inspection, every element and joint constituting the roof structures received scrutiny through assessing the wood species, the different construction stages and, last but not least, their respective geometry. As regards the encountered pathologies, structural disorders (e.g. accidental failure, serviceability defects...) and wood deteriorations due to biological agents (e.g. wood-destroying fungi or insects), which ineluctably leads to a likely decrease of the mechanical performances of the roof structure, were reported. To estimate the residual element cross section and elastic modulus, wood diagnosis was carried out using three relevant non-destructive tests: (1) ultrasonic pulse velocity; (2) drilling resistance; (3) impact penetration. From the collected data, the three timber roof structures were modelled on a commercial software to check their safety and integrity. Based on those outcomes, some prevention and intervention measures haves been lastly proposed case by case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanisms by which peptidergic signals are terminated have been the center of multiple studies leading to the discoveries of novel proteolytic activities. When studying the catabolic fate of neurotensin (NT) in brain and gastrointestinal tract, we detected a novel activity belonging to the metallopeptidases class and apparently distinct from previously known enzymes. Purification and cloning confirmed that this NT-degrading neutral metalloendopeptidase activity was indeed original. It was named endopeptidase 3.4.24.16 according to the IUBMB nomenclature and later, referred to as neurolysin. This review tells the history of neurolysin from its initial detection to its purification, cloning, design of specific inhibitors as well as in vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies aimed at delineating its role in the control of NT function. Finally, we discuss very recent advances suggesting a potential role of neurolysin in pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the role of mathematical pathologies as a means of fostering creativity in the classroom is discussed. In particular, it delves into what constitutes a mathematical pathology, examines historical mathematical pathologies as well as pathologies in contemporary classrooms, and indicates how the Lakatosian heuristic can be used to formulate problems that illustrate mathematical pathologies. We discuss the relationship between mathematical pathologies and their role in fostering creativity. The paper concludes with remarks on mathematical pathologies from the perspective of creativity studies at large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review considers the functions of extracellular actin-cell surface bound, associated with extracellular matrix, or freely circulating. The role of this protein in different pathological processes is analyzed: its toxic effects and involvement in autoimmune diseases as an autoantigen. The extracellular actin clearance system and its role in protection against the negative effects of actin are characterized. Levels of free-circulating actin, anti-actin immunoglobulins, and components of the actin clearance system as prognostic biomarkers for different diseases are reviewed. Experimental approaches to protection against excessive amounts of free-circulating F-actin are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This mini-review is devoted to a survey of the functions of erythrocyte membrane proteins. The published data concerning the changes in the protein spectrum of the erythrocyte membrane in different pathologies such as hypertension, metabolic syndrome, pneumonia, etc., are analyzed. The question of whether the changes in membrane proteins are typical or specific for a certain type of pathology is still under discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article was to review the anatomy of the cavernous sinus (CS), illustrate numerous lesions that can affect the CS, and emphasize the imaging characteristics for each lesion to further refine the differential diagnoses. The CS, notwithstanding its small size, contains a complicated and crucial network that consists of the carotid artery, the venous plexus, and cranial nerves. The wide-ranging types of pathologies that can involve the CS can be roughly classified as tumoral, congenital, infectious/inflammatory/granulomatous, and vascular. Conditions that affect the CS usually lead to symptoms that are similar to each other; thus, for diagnosis, imaging procedures are required. Radiological evaluations are also required to detect pre- and postoperative CS invasion. Magnetic resonance imaging, which can be supplemented with thin-section contrast-enhanced sequences, is the preferred imaging technique for evaluating the CS. For correct diagnosis of CS lesions and accurate evaluations of CS invasions, it is essential to carefully analyze the anatomical structures within the CS and to acquire precise knowledge about the imaging features of CS lesions, which may frequently overlap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging and some pathologies such as arterial hypertension, diabetes, hyperglycemia, and hyperinsulinemia cause some geometrical and mechanical changes in the aortic valve microstructure which contribute to the development of aortic stenosis (AS). Because of the high rate of mortality and morbidity, assessing the impact and progression of this disease is essential. Systolic transvalvular pressure gradient (TPG) and the effective orifice area are commonly used to grade the severity of valvular dysfunction. In this study, a theoretical model of the transient viscous blood flow across the AS is derived by taking into account the aorta compliance. The derived relation of the new TPG is expressed in terms of clinically available surrogate variables (anatomical and hemodynamic data). The proposed relation includes empirical constants which need to be empirically determined. We used a numerical model including an anatomically 3D geometrical model of the aortic root including the sinuses of Valsalva for their identification. The relation was evaluated using clinical values of pressure drops for cases for which the modified Gorlin equation is problematic (low flow, low gradient AS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathologies of the aortic valve such as aortic sclerosis are thought to impact coronary blood flow. Recent clinical investigations have observed simultaneous structural and hemodynamic variations in the aortic valve and coronary arteries due to regional pathologies of the aortic valve. The goal of the present study is to elucidate this observed and yet unexplained phenomenon, in which a local pathology in the aortic valve region could potentially lead to the initiation or progression of coronary artery disease. Results revealed a considerable impact on the coronary flow, velocity profile, and consequently shear stress due to an increase in the aortic wall or aortic leaflet stiffness and thickness which concur with clinical observations. The cutoff value of 0.75 for fractional flow reserve was reached when the values of leaflet thickness and aortic wall stiffness were approximately twice and three times their normal value, respectively. Variations observed in coronary velocity profiles as well as wall shear stress suggest a possible link for the initiation of coronary artery disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of a multiyear study of the health of the population from the end of the 19th to the beginning of the 21st centuries, as well as an estimate of the modern medical-geographic situation in the Moscow region. It is shown that the demographic indices and the level of morbidity over all pathologies have changed. In the historical past, infant mortality was especially significant, but at present, it is now the mortality of the adult population. In the structure of mortality and morbidity, the role has passed from infectious diseases and digestive organ diseases to morbidity of respiratory organs, the circulatory system, and ocular organs. The territorial structure of morbidity has been analyzed. Its earlier revealed distinct attribution to industrial districts with determined sources of pollution at the beginning of the 21st century is less pronounced, which is obviously a result of the total multifactor action of the environment on the health of the population. As well, territorial peculiarities of morbidity from socially significant diseases have proved more stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiotensin II (AngII) is the primary bioactive peptide of the renin angiotensin system that plays a critical role in many cardiovascular diseases. Subcutaneous infusion of AngII into mice induces the development of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Like human AAAs, AngII-induced AAA tissues exhibit progressive changes and considerable heterogeneity. This complex pathology provides an impediment to the quantification of aneurysmal tissue composition by biochemical and immunostaining techniques. Therefore, while the mouse model of AngII-induced AAAs provides a salutary approach to studying the mechanisms of the evolution of AAAs in humans, meaningful interpretation of mechanisms requires consideration of the heterogeneous nature of the diseased tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anti-aging medicine movement proposes to alter the human body in order to achieve extreme longevity. To do this it has to reverse or by-pass the multiple causes of human aging. These include a large number of age-associated pathologies, each of which is being studied in great detail in research laboratories around the world. The protagonists of anti-aging medicine claim that it will be far more successful than the combined efforts of the innumerable scientists carrying out this research. Aging has an extremely long evolutionary history, and the anatomical structure and physiology of animals is directly related to their finite lifespan. The anti-aging movement proposes in a few decades to reverse what has been the result of millions of years of evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a recent article in this journal (Adams and Aizawa 1992), Fred Adams and Ken Aizawa argued that Jerry Fodor's proposed naturalistic sufficient condition for meaning is unsatisfactory. In this paper, I respond to Adams and Aizawa, noting that (1) they have overestimated the importance of their 'pathologies' objection, perhaps as a consequence of misunderstanding Fodor's asymmetric dependency condition, (2) they have misunderstood Fodor's asymmetric dependency condition in formulating their Twin Earth objection, and (3) they have, in addition to under describing their 'clear counterexample' to Fodor's proposal, in fact identified a satisfactory Fodorian rejoiner to their objection. I conclude that Fodor's proposal is, for all Adams and Aizawa have shown, adequate as a naturalistic theory of content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In two recent books, Jerry Fodor has developed a set of sufficient conditions for an object 'X' to non-naturally and non-derivatively mean X. In an earlier paper we presented three reasons for thinking Fodor's theory to be inadequate. One of these problems we have dubbed the 'Pathologies Problem'. In response to queries concerning the relationship between the Pathologies Problem and what Fodor calls 'Block's Problem', we argue that, while Block's Problem does not threaten Fodor's view, the Pathologies Problem does. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]