The alveolar-capillary interface is the key functional element of gas exchange in the human lung, and disruptions to this interface can lead to significant medical complications. However, it is currently challenging to adequately model this interface in vitro, as it requires not only the co-culture of human alveolar epithelial and endothelial cells but mainly the preparation of a biocompatible scaffold that mimics the basement membrane. This scaffold should support cell seeding from both sides, and maintain optimal cell adhesion, growth, and differentiation conditions. Our study investigates the use of polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers as a versatile substrate for such cell cultures, aiming to model the alveolar-capillary interface more accurately. We optimized nanofiber production parameters, utilized polyamide mesh UHELON as a mechanical support for scaffold handling, and created 3D-printed inserts for specialized co-cultures. Our findings confirm that PCL nanofibrous scaffolds are manageable and support the co-culture of diverse cell types, effectively enabling cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. Our research establishes a proof-of-concept model for the alveolar-capillary interface, offering significant potential for enhancing cell-based testing and advancing tissue-engineering applications that require specific nanofibrous matrices.

• MeSH
• bazální membrána MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• nanovlákna * chemie   MeSH
• ověření koncepční studie MeSH
• plicní alveoly * chemie   cytologie   MeSH
• polyestery * chemie   MeSH
• tkáňové inženýrství * metody   MeSH
• tkáňové podpůrné struktury * MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

High specification mattresses periodically redistribute pressure using alternating air cells, offloading tissues. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of alternating air pressure gradients on sacral tissue physiology. This randomised cross-over study recruited 15 healthy participants to test the three mattress settings (fast cycle, normal cycle, and slow cycle). Participants were asked to adopt supine, lateral, and high sitting (head of bed at 40°) postures, whilst transcutaneous tissue gas tensions and interface pressures at the sacrum were continuously monitored. Comparison between mattress settings and postures showed no statistical difference (p > 0.05) between peak pressure index values at the sacrum for each air inflation cycle speed setting. By contrast, a significantly higher sacral (p < 0.05) contact area was observed for high sitting. During high sitting, ischemic responses during both fast and normal air inflation cycle speed settings were recorded. During the slow air inflation cycle speed, most participants (60%-100%) showed high levels of perfusion. The present study identified a main effect of posture on interface pressure and perfusion over the sacrum. The alternating mattress speed influenced local tissue perfusion, with the greatest changes in tissue oxygenation occurring in a high-speed setting.

• MeSH
• dekubity * prevence a kontrola   MeSH
• design vybavení MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• klinické křížové studie MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• lůžka * MeSH
• mladý dospělý MeSH
• postura těla * fyziologie   MeSH
• tlak vzduchu * MeSH
• zdraví dobrovolníci pro lékařské studie MeSH
• Check Tag
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mladý dospělý MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• randomizované kontrolované studie MeSH

BACKGROUND: Age-related neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) pose a formidable challenge to healthcare systems worldwide due to their complex pathogenesis, significant morbidity, and mortality. Scope and Approach: This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the central role of the microbiotagut- brain axis (MGBA) in ND pathogenesis. Specifically, it delves into the perturbations within the gut microbiota and its metabolomic landscape, as well as the structural and functional transformations of the gastrointestinal and blood-brain barrier interfaces in ND patients. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in medicinal and dietary interventions tailored to modulate the MGBA for ND therapy. CONCLUSION: Accumulating evidence underscores the pivotal role of the gut microbiota in ND pathogenesis through the MGBA. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and associated metabolites instigate structural modifications and augmented permeability of both the gastrointestinal barrier and the blood-brain barrier (BBB). These alterations facilitate the transit of microbial molecules from the gut to the brain via neural, endocrine, and immune pathways, potentially contributing to the etiology of NDs. Numerous investigational strategies, encompassing prebiotic and probiotic interventions, pharmaceutical trials, and dietary adaptations, are actively explored to harness the microbiota for ND treatment. This work endeavors to enhance our comprehension of the intricate mechanisms underpinning ND pathogenesis, offering valuable insights for the development of innovative therapeutic modalities targeting these debilitating disorders.

• MeSH
• dysbióza metabolismus   MeSH
• hematoencefalická bariéra metabolismus   MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mozek * metabolismus   MeSH
• neurodegenerativní nemoci * mikrobiologie   metabolismus   MeSH
• osa mozek-střevo * fyziologie   MeSH
• probiotika MeSH
• stárnutí * MeSH
• střevní mikroflóra * fyziologie   MeSH
• zvířata MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH
• zvířata MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• přehledy MeSH

The pertinent literature widely describes ultrasound-guided procedures targeting the retrocalcaneal bursa and the tendon tissue to manage insertional Achilles tendinopathy. Synovial bursae and cutaneous nerves of the superficial retrocalcaneal pad are often overlooked pain generators and are poorly considered by clinicians and surgeons. A layer-by-layer dissection of the superficial soft tissues in the retrocalcaneal region of two fresh frozen cadavers was matched with historical anatomical tables of the textbook Traite d'Anatomie Topographique Avec Applications Médico-Chirurgicales (1909 by Testut and Jacob). An accurate and detailed description of the superficial retrocalcaneal pad with its synovial bursae and cutaneous nerves was provided. Cadaveric dissections confirmed the compartmentalized architecture of the superficial retrocalcaneal fat pad and its histological continuum with the superficial lamina of the crural fascia. Superficial synovial tissue islands have been demonstrated on the posterior aspect of the Achilles tendon in one cadaver and on the posterolateral surface of the tendon in the other one. Digitalization of the original anatomical tables of the textbook Traite d'Anatomie Topographique Avec Applications Médico-Chirurgicales (1909 by Testut and Jacob) showed five potential locations of the superficial calcaneal bursa and a superficial retrocalcaneal nerve plexus within the Achilles tendon-fat pad interface. In clinical practice, in addition to the previously described interventions regarding the retrocalcaneal bursa and the tendon tissue, ultrasound-guided procedures targeting the synovial and neural tissues of the superficial retrocalcaneal pad should be considered to optimize the management of insertional Achilles tendinopathy.

• MeSH
• Achillova šlacha * anatomie a histologie   diagnostické zobrazování   MeSH
• bursa synovialis * anatomie a histologie   diagnostické zobrazování   MeSH
• intervenční ultrasonografie metody   MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mrtvola * MeSH
• patní kost * anatomie a histologie   inervace   diagnostické zobrazování   MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

BACKGROUND: The increasing complexity of mass casualty incidents (MCIs) necessitates highly effective training for emergency responders. Traditional training methods, while effective in teaching core skills, often fail to replicate the dynamic, high-pressure environments responders face in real-world crises. Virtual reality (VR) offers a novel approach to emergency training, providing an immersive, controlled setting that can simulate real-life scenarios. This study explores the effectiveness of VR in training paramedic students for MCIs and compares the outcomes to those from conventional training methods. METHODS: A comparative study was conducted with 37 paramedic students who underwent either VR-based training or conventional training using mannequins and real-world equipment. The VR application simulated a mass casualty car accident, focusing on triage and patient management. Both groups were assessed based on their performance in key areas, including the accuracy of situational reporting (METHANE), patient triage, heart rate monitoring, and perceived demand using the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). RESULTS: The VR group demonstrated significantly lower mental demand (p < 0.001) and frustration levels (p = 0.021) compared to traditional training. However, task completion times were slower in the VR setting (p < 0.001), likely due to the interface's unfamiliarity. Accuracy in situational reporting was higher in VR (p = 0.002), while heart rate monitoring did not reveal a significant difference between the groups (p = 0.516). Although VR did not reduce temporal demand (p = 0.057), it showed potential for improving focus and precision in training. Error rates in triage were similar across both training methods (p = 0.882), indicating comparable performance levels in patient classification. CONCLUSIONS: VR presents a promising tool for training emergency responders, particularly in situations that require rapid upskilling, such as crises or wars. The ability to simulate realistic, high-pressure scenarios in a controlled environment can enhance both cognitive and emotional preparedness. Further research is necessary to optimize VR systems and interfaces, making them more efficient for real-time decision-making. As VR technology advances, it holds potential as a key component in future emergency preparedness strategies.

• MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• first responder * výchova   psychologie   MeSH
• hromadné neštěstí * MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• plánování postupu v případě katastrof metody   MeSH
• třídění pacientů metody   MeSH
• virtuální realita * MeSH
• Check Tag
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that brain-computer interface (BCI)-based rehabilitation strategies show promise in overcoming the limited recovery potential in the chronic phase of stroke. However, the specific mechanisms driving motor function improvements are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE: We aimed at elucidating the potential functional brain connectivity changes induced by BCI training in participants with chronic stroke. METHODS: A longitudinal crossover design was employed with two groups of participants over the span of 4 weeks to allow for within-subject (n = 21) and cross-group comparisons. Group 1 (n = 11) underwent a 6-day motor imagery-based BCI training during the second week, whereas Group 2 (n = 10) received the same training during the third week. Before and after each week, both groups underwent resting state functional MRI scans (4 for Group 1 and 5 for Group 2) to establish a baseline and monitor the effects of BCI training. RESULTS: Following BCI training, an increased functional connectivity was observed between the medial prefrontal cortex of the default mode network (DMN) and motor-related areas, including the premotor cortex, superior parietal cortex, SMA, and precuneus. Moreover, these changes were correlated with the increased motor function as confirmed with upper-extremity Fugl-Meyer assessment scores, measured before and after the training. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that BCI training can enhance brain connectivity, underlying the observed improvements in motor function. They provide a basis for developing novel rehabilitation approaches using non-invasive brain stimulation for targeting functionally relevant brain regions, thereby augmenting BCI-induced neuroplasticity and enhancing motor recovery.

• MeSH
• cévní mozková příhoda * patofyziologie   diagnostické zobrazování   MeSH
• chronická nemoc MeSH
• default mode network * patofyziologie   diagnostické zobrazování   MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• klinické křížové studie MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• longitudinální studie MeSH
• magnetická rezonanční tomografie MeSH
• mozek * patofyziologie   diagnostické zobrazování   MeSH
• nervová síť * patofyziologie   diagnostické zobrazování   MeSH
• rehabilitace po cévní mozkové příhodě * metody   MeSH
• rozhraní mozek-počítač * MeSH
• senioři MeSH
• Check Tag
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• senioři MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

Dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by genetic and clinical heterogeneity. A recurring p.(Glu303del)-deletion in TOR1A is a well-established cause for DYT-TOR1A (DYT1), an autosomal dominant early-onset isolated dystonia. TOR1A encodes TorsinA, an AAA + ATPase located in the nuclear envelope. By whole exome analyses of a family with a novel dystonia-hemichorea-/hemiballism phenotype, we identified a TOR1AIP2 NM_001199260.2 c.1234A > G p.(Arg412Gly) variant. The variant is very rare in databases and was absent from whole exome data from >1000 dystonia patients. TOR1AIP2 encodes LULL1, a transmembrane protein that activates TorsinA, and correct interaction between TorsinA and LULL1 is essential for proper nuclear envelope architecture. The p.(Arg412Gly) variant disrupts the binding interface between TorsinA and LULL1 around p.Arg412; this same interface is also impaired in DYT1. Functional analyses via a co-purification assay revealed that interaction between TorsinA-LULL1Arg412Gly is weaker than the wild-type interaction, and that it resembles the situation in DYT1 (TorsinAΔE303-LULL1). A second family with milder dystonia, hemichorea, and stereotypic leg flexion during gait and a TOR1AIP2 p.(Gln338His) variant was identified. The clinical phenotype of both families shared proximal arm movements, and flutter in facial musculature. Expressivity of the movement disorder symptoms was variable. Several proteins in the nuclear envelope have been implicated in various forms of neurodevelopmental disorders with dystonia. Taken together, our findings suggest TOR1AIP2 as a new candidate gene implicated in a complex hereditary movement disorder with dystonia and hemichorea/hemiballism.

• MeSH
• chorea * genetika   MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• dyskineze * genetika   MeSH
• dystonické poruchy * genetika   MeSH
• dystonie * genetika   MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• molekulární chaperony * genetika   MeSH
• rodokmen MeSH
• Check Tag
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate and compare the effects of platform switching (PS) and platform matching (PM) on marginal bone loss (MBL) and clinical parameters in immediately inserted dental implants. METHODS: Thirty-seven patients were included (PS group: twenty-one patients, PM group: sixteen patients), with follow-up periods ranging from six months to 23 years. MBL was measured using orthopantomograms (OPG), and implant success was evaluated using the Buser, Albrektsson, and Attia criteria. Regression analysis was conducted to assess total bone loss. RESULTS: The BEGO RI implant system was used in 83.8% of cases. Mesial MBL averaged 0.26 mm in the PS group and 0.75 mm in the PM group, while distal MBL was 0.68 mm for the PS group and 0.53 mm for the PM group. A significant difference was observed in mesial MBL, with the PS group showing less bone loss (p. = 0.044). Regression analysis indicated that PM implants were associated with significantly greater mesial bone loss compared to PS implants (p. = 0.039). No significant differences in implant success were observed between the PS and PM groups based on the Buser score, Albrektsson criteria, and Attia score. CONCLUSION: Both PS and PM implants showed comparable long-term functionality. No significant differences were found in total bone loss between the groups, but PS implants showed significantly lower mesial MBL. While both systems are viable for immediate implantation, PS implants may offer advantages in preserving peri-implant bone. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.

• MeSH
• design pilíře zubního implantátu MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• okamžité zatížení zubního implantátu MeSH
• rentgendiagnostika panoramatická MeSH
• resorpce alveolární kosti * diagnostické zobrazování   etiologie   MeSH
• retrospektivní studie MeSH
• senioři MeSH
• výsledek terapie MeSH
• zubní implantáty * škodlivé účinky   MeSH
• Check Tag
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• senioři MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

The potentials of electrochemical processes in ideal aqueous media are related to the potential of a normal hydrogen electrode (NHE). However, in non-ideal media, the potentials of a metallocene redox couple are used as a reference. Such measurements with free metallocene in solution are complicated by adsorption and mass transport phenomena and solvation effects. Herein, a platinum electrode with an anchored ferrocene moiety (Pt,Fc) was used for cyclic voltammetric measurements of the potential of ferrocene/ferrocenium (Fc/Fc+) redox transformation in not only non-aqueous but, for the first time, aqueous solutions as well. This enabled us to eliminate the aforementioned problems associated with the application of free metallocene molecules in solution and, thus, to relate the midpoint potential (Epm) of the Fc/Fc+ redox couple to a NHE. After elimination of the liquid junction potential in an aqueous 0.1 M KCl solution at 25 °C, the average intraday Epm value obtained with freshly prepared Pt,Fc electrodes was found to be 0.312 ± 0.008 V versus the secondary Ag|AgCl electrode. The Pt,Fc electrode can be applied for the standardization of electrochemical measurements and investigation of solvation phenomena at interfaces in non-ideal media.

• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

Úvod: Mnohé štúdie a metaanalýzy preukázali, že telemonitorovanie krvného tlaku ako aj iných faktorov metabolického syndrómu môže zlepšiť ich manažment. Avšak mnoho pacientov nevyužíva telemonitorovanie kvôli osobným, technologickým a iným bariéram. Cieľom tejto štúdie bolo zistenie aké sú perspektívy a prekážky telemonitoringu lipitenzie na Slovensku z pohľadu pacienta. Metódy: Táto štúdia bola realizovaná ako dotazníková a mala za cieľ osloviť 2 545 pacientov. Dotazník pozostával z častí zameraných na osobné charakteristiky pacienta, návyky z hľadiska merania krvného tlaku (TK), na využívanie smart-technológií, ich predpokladané prínosy a prekážky z hľadiska pacienta ako aj na znalosť lipidového profilu a kardiovaskulárneho rizika samotným pacientom. Výsledky: Celkovo sme získali 252 odpovedí od pacientov (9,9 %). Z celkového počtu opýtaných má arteriálnu hypertenziu 67,4 %, kým nefarmakologickú terapiu užíva 7,9 %. Denne si TK meria len 21,2 % hypertonikov, signifikantne vyšší počet mužov ako žien (p = 0,011) a najčastejšie si meria TK veková kategória 31–45 rokov. Až 19,4 % využíva nositeľné zariadenia a 6,3 % tlakomery prepojené s aplikáciou. Signifikantne častejšie smart-technológie využíva kategória 31–45-ročných (p = 0,01). Závažné prekážky využitia smart-technológií neboli identifikované, väčšina si vyžadovala funkciu vzdialených konzultácií, úpravy liekov a jednoduché užívateľské rozhranie. Väčšina pacientov nevie svoju hodnotu LDL-cholesterolu a až 45,7 % tých čo vie, malo zvýšené hladiny. Záver: Celkovo prevláda záujem o využitie metód telemedicíny krvného tlaku, pri jej implementácii na Slovensku bude však nutná spolupráca pacienta a lekára.

Introduction: Numerous studies and meta-analyses have demonstrated that telemonitoring of blood pressure and other factors of metabolic syndrome can improve their management. However, many patients do not use telemonitoring due to personal, technological, and healthcare barriers. The aim of this study was to identify the perspectives and barriers to telemonitoring of lipid levels in Slovakia from the patient’s point of view. Methods: This study was conducted as a questionnaire-based survey targeting 2,545 patients. The questionnaire consisted of sections focused on patients’ personal characteristics, habits regarding blood pressure measurement, the use of smart technologies, their perceived benefits and barriers, as well as the patients’ knowledge of their lipid profile and cardiovascular risk. Results: A total of 252 responses were obtained (9.9 % response rate). Among the respondents, 67.4 % had hypertension, while 7.9 % were on non-pharmacological therapy. Only 21.2 % of hypertensive patients measured their blood pressure daily, with a significantly higher proportion of men compared to women (p = 0.011), and the most frequent blood pressure monitoring was observed in the 31–45 age group. A total of 19.4 % used wearable devices, and 6.3 % used blood pressure monitors connected to an app. Smart technology use was significantly more common in the 31–45 age group (p = 0.01). No severe barriers to the use of smart technologies were identified; most patients required features such as remote consultations, medication adjustments, and user-friendly interfaces. The majority of patients were unaware of their LDL-C values, and 45.7 % of those who were aware had elevated levels. Conclusion: There is a prevailing interest in implementing telemedicine methods for blood pressure monitoring. However, collaboration between patients and physicians will be necessary for its successful implementation in Slovakia.

• MeSH
• digitální zdraví MeSH
• dyslipidemie prevence a kontrola   MeSH
• hypertenze * epidemiologie   prevence a kontrola   MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• měření krevního tlaku metody   MeSH
• průzkumy a dotazníky MeSH
• rizikové faktory kardiovaskulárních chorob MeSH
• statistika jako téma MeSH
• telemedicína * metody   MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH
• Geografické názvy
• Slovenská republika MeSH