Root anatomy and canal configuration of human permanent maxillary third molar - systematic review.

Knowledge of the root canals configuration is essential for the success of endodontic treatment. The main aim of the systematic review is to determine the number of roots and the number of root canals in maxillary third molars, in addition, where possible, to determine the Vertucci classification. This systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement guidelines. The study protocol was registered and approved on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews PROSPERO (Reg. No: CRD42022366444) before the start of the study. Twelve studies were included in the analysis, differing in sample origin and methodology. The combined studies were analyzed based on the number of roots, number of canals, and root canal configurations, and the findings were compared with those of other international studies. Analyzing the available research results regarding the root anatomy and canal configuration of the third maxillary molar, the most commonly maxillary third molars had 3 roots (59.00%). Single-rooted teeth (24.20%) or double-rooted teeth (13.80%) were less common. In addition, it was observed that maxillary third molars typically possessed three root canals (47.28%) and the MB (mesiobuccal), DB (distobuccal), and P (palatal) canals most often showed Vertucci Type I (59.53%, 95.83% and 98.61%, respectively) in three-rooted form. Due to the small number of available studies, it is necessary to conduct further analyses taking into account demographic and ethnic differences that may affect the anatomical and morphological structure of the teeth.

Retrospective study of the morphology of third maxillary molars among the population of Lower Silesia based on analysis of cone beam computed tomography.

INTRODUCTION: Understanding the anatomy of root canal systems and being aware of their variations is crucial for successful endodontic treatment. Specifically, the intricate and diverse nature of the root anatomy in maxillary third molars poses a significant challenge for dental clinicians. The study analyzed the morphology of the root canal system in maxillary third molars among residents of the Lower Silesia region in Poland using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective cross-sectional imaging study was conducted at the X-Ray Diagnostics Laboratory of the Academic Dental Polyclinic of Wroclaw Medical University, Poland. The study evaluated 316 CBCT scans and included 196 maxillary third molars. They were obtained from 118 females and 78 males over the age of 18, in the period from January to April 2022 (three consecutive months). The number of roots, root canals, and root canal configurations according to Vertucci's classification were analyzed. RESULTS: Three-rooted maxillary molars were found most often (64.29%), followed by single-rooted (24.49%), two-rooted (7.65%), and four-rooted (3.57%) teeth. Among all the roots examined, Vertucci Type I root canals were the most prevalent. Our research found that single-rooted forms (40 teeth, 33.89% vs. 8 teeth, 10.26%, p = 0.0013) of maxillary third molars were significantly more common in females than in males. However, three-rooted forms (62 teeth, 79.49% vs. 64 teeth, 54.24%, p = 0.0013) of maxillary third molars were significantly more common in males than in females. DISCUSSION: In the Lower Silesia region, the typical maxillary third molar in the Polish population has a three-rooted structure with Vertucci Type I root canal configuration. We noted a sex-dependent correlation in maxillary third molar morphology, with single-rooted forms more prevalent in women and three-rooted forms in men.

Chitin scaffolds derived from the marine demosponge Aplysina fistularis stimulate the differentiation of dental pulp stem cells.

The use of stem cells for tissue regeneration is a prominent trend in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. In particular, dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) have garnered considerable attention. When exposed to specific conditions, DPSCs have the ability to differentiate into osteoblasts and odontoblasts. Scaffolds are critical for cell differentiation because they replicate the 3D microenvironment of the niche and enhance cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. The purpose of this study is to present the biological responses of human DPSCs to a purified 3D chitin scaffold derived from the marine demosponge Aplysina fistularis and modified with hydroxyapatite (HAp). Responses examined included proliferation, adhesion, and differentiation. The control culture consisted of the human osteoblast cell line, hFOB 1.19. Electron microscopy was used to examine the ultrastructure of the cells (transmission electron microscopy) and the surface of the scaffold (scanning electron microscopy). Cell adhesion to the scaffolds was determined by neutral red and crystal violet staining methods. An alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay was used for assessing osteoblast/odontoblast differentiation. We evaluated the expression of osteogenic marker genes by performing ddPCR for ALP, RUNX2, and SPP1 mRNA expression levels. The results show that the chitin biomaterial provides a favorable environment for DPSC and hFOB 1.19 cell adhesion and supports both cell proliferation and differentiation. The chitin scaffold, especially with HAp modification, isolated from A. fistularis can make a significant contribution to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Effect of light intensity in the nest site on eggshell pigmentation in a hole-nesting passerine.

Daylight is an important factor necessary for the proper embryonic development of birds, which raises the question, what happens when birds nest in relatively dim sites? The study experimentally tested whether there is a relationship between light conditions at the nesting site and the protoporphyrin-based pigmentation in the eggshell of the Great Tit (Parus major). We hypothesised that at lower light levels, eggs are less pigmented to increase the amount of light reaching the embryo. Our study system consisted of two types of nest boxes: "dark", in which the only source of light was the entrance hole, and "bright", which had two additional side windows. Photographs of clutches taken during the incubation period were used to quantify eggshell pigmentation. Multispectral image analyses were performed to measure variables correlating with protoporphyrin content, such as spot brightness, average spot size, spotting coverage, and spot red chroma. Repeatability analysis indicated that eggshell colouration characteristics were significantly and moderately repeatable between eggs from a single clutch, which suggests that they are under genetic and environmental control. However, none of the pigmentation traits differed significantly between the two types of nest boxes. We speculate about other ecological aspects that might have influenced the observed variability in eggshell pigmentation.

PD-1 and PD-L1 Expression Levels as a Potential Biomarker of Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Head and Neck Cancers.

Inflammation is an etiological factor of various chronic diseases contributing to more than 50% of worldwide deaths. In this study, we focus on the immunosuppressive role of the programmed death-1 (PD-1) receptor and its ligand (PD-L1) in inflammatory-related diseases, including chronic rhinosinusitis and head and neck cancers. The study included 304 participants. Of this number, 162 patients had chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), 40 patients had head and neck cancer (HNC) and there were 102 healthy subjects. The expression level of the PD-1 and PD-L1 genes in the tissues of the study groups was measured by qPCR and Western blot methods. The associations between the age of the patients and the extent of disease and genes' expression were evaluated. The study showed a significantly higher mRNA expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 in the tissues of both the CRSwNP and HNC patient groups compared to the healthy group. The severity of CRSwNP significantly correlated with the mRNA expression of PD-1 and PD-L1. Similarly, the age of the NHC patients influenced PD-L1 expression. In addition, a significantly higher level of PD-L1 protein was noticed also for both the CRSwNP and HNC patient groups. The increased expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 may be a potential biomarker of inflammatory-related diseases, including chronic rhinosinusitis and head and neck cancers.

PD-1 and PDL-1 gene expression in nasal polyp tissue from patients with asthma exacerbated by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs correlates with the severity of the disease.

INTRODUCTION: The clinical syndrome that includes asthma, nasal polyps and hypersensitivity to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is referred to as airway disease exacerbated by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Patients usually have the most severe form of nasal polyps. Asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps share a common inflammatory profile, involving type 2 helper T lymphocytes. T-cell activity can be inhibited via the programmed death receptor, PD-1, leading to modulation of the immune response. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the expression of genes encoding PD-1 and its ligand PD-L1 in nasal polyp tissue in patients with asthma exacerbated by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and to correlate the results with clinical data. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The material used for the study consisted of 54 tissue sections of nasal polyps. In the specimens, the expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 genes was determined at the mRNA level by qPCR. Statistical analysis was used to evaluate the results of the study. RESULTS: The expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 genes in the tissue of polyps was statistically significantly higher than in the nasal mucosa of patients in the control group. In addition, there was a correlation between the expression of both genes at the mRNA level and the severity of nasal polyps in the paranasal sinuses analyzed from computed tomography images of the paranasal sinuses and assessed using the Kennedy scale. CONCLUSIONS: Determining the expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 genes may provide a marker for the severity of polypoid lesions. In addition, learning more about the PD-1/PD-L signaling pathway and how it can be modulated may provide a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with inflammatory diseases.

Serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 levels in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis correlate with clinical severity.

BACKGROUND: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a group of heterogeneous diseases characterized by epithelial inflammation and tissue eosinophilic infiltration. IL-5, POSTN, and IL-33 are important factors that act as chemoattractants for eosinophils, and a tissue-remodeling protein positively correlated with eosinophils in blood and mediators of eosinophilic infiltration. The aim of the study was to determine the expression of IL-5, POSTN and IL-33, at the gene and protein levels, in eosinophilic CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and to correlate this expression with clinical severity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 40 CRSwNP patients and 53 CRSsNP patients and 40 control subjects. The expression of IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 mRNA was determined in sinonasal mucosal samples and in nasal polyp tissue by real-time PCR. Protein levels in the serum of CRSwNP patients were measured by ELISA. Computed tomography was evaluated according to Lund-Mackay scores, and visual analog scale scores were assessed. RESULTS: NP tissue demonstrated significantly higher IL-5 and POSTN mRNA expression than the sinonasal tissue in the CRSsNP and CRSwNP groups. CRS groups demonstrated elevated IL-33 mRNA expression in comparison to controls irrespective of the presence of NP. No correlation was found between IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 mRNA expression and disease severity. CRSwNP group demonstrated significantly higher serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 protein levels than controls, and this corresponds to disease severity. CONCLUSION: Serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 levels may be important markers for classification of eosinophilic CRSwNP patients, along with disease severity.

In vitro and In silico Studies on Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R. Br. Root Extract against Cancer Cells.

BACKGROUND: Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R. Br. (Lamiaceae) is a shrub traditionally used to alleviate inflammatory conditions. OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed at investigating the biological activity of methanolic nontransformed and transformed Rhizobium rhizogenes root extracts from L. nepetifolia against human melanoma cells. METHODS: Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity properties, the impact on topoisomerase I activity, and proapoptotic activity were evaluated by the MTT test, comet assay, topoisomerase I assay, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis. Moreover, the expressions of p53 were examined by qPCR and Western blot analysis. Docking studies were conducted to assess the potential interactions of the identified phytochemicals with the p53 binding protein Mdm-2, and computational analyses exhibited their antioxidant potential. RESULTS: Both extracts showed cytotoxic potential against human melanoma cells, but generally the activity was more potent for transformed roots than untransformed (IC50 760 µg/mL and 980 µg/mL, respectively). A similar effect was revealed during the evaluation of genotoxic and proapoptotic properties. Moreover, the expression of p53 was also found to be increased after extract treatment. The most dominant identified compounds in both extracts were as follows: (+)- catechin, p-coumaric acid, m-coumaric acid, and (+)-rosmarinic acid. Docking studies and computational analysis showed that (+)-rosmarinic acid possesses the highest binding affinity to the p53 binding protein, Mdm-2, and exhibits the best antioxidant property from the most commonly identified phytochemicals. CONCLUSION: Our findings revealed the potential of L. nepetifolia transformed root extract as a source of bioactive compounds with cytotoxic, genotoxic, and proapoptotic activity against human melanoma cells as well as antioxidant properties.

The impact of socioeconomic status, general health and oral health on Health-Related Quality of Life, Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and mental health among Polish older adults.

BACKGROUND: The study aims to evaluate the impact of socioeconomic status, general health and oral health parameters on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL), Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) and mental health in elderly urban residents of South-Western Poland. METHODS: The 500 residents of Wroclaw, aged 65 and older provided demographic and personal information as well as their medical history. A patient's oral condition were determined based on the clinical oral examination.Quality of Life was assessed using Euro-Quality of Life (EQ-5D), Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).The association between exposure (socioeconomic status, general health and oral health) and outcome (HRQoL, OHRQoL and mental health variables) were analyzed with the use of four models: P - Poisson model, NB-Negative Binomial model, ZIP - Zero Inflated Poisson model, ZINB - Zero Inflated Negative Binomial model. RESULTS: The best model turned out to be the ZINB model, in which a negative binomial distribution in the count equation is assumed. In this model, only 13 independent variables had a significant effect on HRQoL, OHRQoL, and mental health. HRQoL assessed with the EQ-5D is significantly influenced by: living conditions 0.133 (95% CI: 0.001, 0.267, p = 0.049), income -0.348 (95%CI: -0.466, -0.230, p < 0.001), diabetes mellitus 0.437 (95%CI: 0.250, 0.624, p < 0.001), myocardial infarction 0.454 (95% CI: 0.151, 0.757, p = 0.003), stroke 0.543 (95%CI: 0.094, 0.992, p = 0.018) and renal disease 0.466 (95% CI: 0.206, 0.726, p < 0.001). Factors negatively affecting OHRQOL are: the need for oral treatment 0.278 (95%CI: 0.104, 0.452, p = 0.002), the number of missing teeth 0.053 (95%CI: 0.039, 0.067, p < 0.001) and gender 0.271 (95%CI: 0.015, 0.527, p = 0.038) and age -0.025 (95%CI: -0.042, -0.008, p = 0.003). An important factor influencing the level of depression assessed by the PHQ-9 questionnaire may be the material condition -0.225 (95%CI: -0.349, -0.101, p < 0.001). It should be emphasized that living with other people may be a factor that significantly increases the probability of avoiding the occurrence of depression symptoms. CONCLUSION: The study concerning elderly residents of the macroregion in Poland found the impact of socioeconomic, general health and oral health parameters on Health-Related Quality of Life, Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and mental health. Research on the quality of life of the elderly at the local level allowed to assess the factors linked to quality of life of older adults.

Threatened Masculinity: Gender-Related Collective Narcissism Predicts Prejudice Toward Gay and Lesbian People among Heterosexual Men in Poland.

We examined the relationships between different types of in-group positivity and prejudice toward gay and lesbian people among heterosexual men. We assumed that prejudice toward gay and lesbian people among heterosexual men should be predicted by gender-related collective narcissism (i.e., an unrealistic belief about in-group's greatness which is contingent on external validation and extremely sensitive to any signs of threats) and not secure gender in-group identification (i.e., a confidently held in-group evaluation which is independent of the recognition of the group by others and serves as a buffer against threats). Across two studies (final Ns = 212 and 180) we found that gender-related collective narcissism (but not secure gender in-group identification or gender self-esteem) is positively related to prejudice toward gay and lesbian people among heterosexual men. The results of Study 2 demonstrated that this relationship was largely accounted for by the perceived out-group threat.

Therapeutic Potential of Dental Pulp Stem Cells According to Different Transplant Types.

Stem cells are unspecialised cells capable of perpetual self-renewal, proliferation and differentiation into more specialised daughter cells. They are present in many tissues and organs, including the stomatognathic system. Recently, the great interest of scientists in obtaining stem cells from human teeth is due to their easy availability and a non-invasive procedure of collecting the material. Three key components are required for tissue regeneration: stem cells, appropriate scaffold material and growth factors. Depending on the source of the new tissue or organ, there are several types of transplants. In this review, the following division into four transplant types is applied due to genetic differences between the donor and the recipient: xenotransplantation, allotransplantation, autotransplantation and isotransplantation (however, due to the lack of research, type was not included). In vivo studies have shown that Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSCs)can form a dentin-pulp complex, nerves, adipose, bone, cartilage, skin, blood vessels and myocardium, which gives hope for their use in various biomedical areas, such as immunotherapy and regenerative therapy. This review presents the current in vivo research and advances to provide new biological insights and therapeutic possibilities of using DPSCs.

Gender-wise comparison of oral health quality of life and its relationship with oral health parameters among elderly from Wroclaw, south-west Poland.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, there has been an increase of aging population with longer life expectancy in females. This study aims to compare some oral health parameters and quality of life in the elderly. METHODS: The survey involved 500 urban residents (Wroclaw, Poland) aged 65 and older, of both gender. Socio-demografic data were assessed by self-reported questionnaire. Clinical examination included oral health assessment by the World Health Organization criteria with extension and oral dryness (Chalacombe scale). Quality of Life (QoL) was evaluated using Euro-Quality of Life, Oral Health Impact Profile-14 and Patient Health Questionnaire-9, which were validated for the Polish population. The relationship strength between psychometric scale scores and sociodemographic and clinical factors was determined by calculating Spearman's linear correlation coefficient values and regression coefficient values. RESULTS: There was no gender-wise differences in oral health parameters, except for a higher number of decayed teeth in males (DT 1.9±3.2 vs 1.2±2.4; p = 0.34). Oral dryness was diagnosed significantly more frequently in females then males (36.9% vs. 25.5%; p = 0.076). The males were significantly more likely to have high treatment needs (36.1% vs. 26.9%; p = 0.032) and they required urgent dental treatment (7.2% vs. 2.8%; p = 0.022). There were no significant differences in terms of QoL evaluated by EQ-5D, EQ-5D VAS or OHIP-14 questionnaires between males and females (0.832±0.194 vs 0.855±0.197, 67.9±10.9 vs 66.1±18.6, 7.2±12.9 vs 8.5±14.0, respectively; p > 0.05). However, females presented the higher severity of depressive symptoms measured by the PHQ-9 questionnaire (4.0±4.1 vs. 2.8±3.8; p<0.001). CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that the independent predictors which significantly affect the high QoL scores on the EQ-5D scale were found to be female gender, age below 75, high or middle income, independence in daily life, a low number of comorbidities, lack of oral treatment needs.

Application of Texture and Fractal Dimension Analysis to Evaluate Subgingival Cement Surfaces in Terms of Biocompatibility.

Biocompatibility is defined as "the ability of a biomaterial, prosthesis, or medical device to perform with an appropriate host response in a specific application". Biocompatibility is especially important for restorative dentists as they use materials that remain in close contact with living tissues for a long time. The research material involves six types of cement used frequently in the subgingival region: Ketac Fil Plus (3M ESPE, Germany), Riva Self Cure (SDI, Australia) (Glass Ionomer Cements), Breeze (Pentron Clinical, USA) (Resin-based Cement), Adhesor Carbofine (Pentron, Czech Republic), Harvard Polycarboxylat Cement (Harvard Dental, Great Britain) (Zinc polycarboxylate types of cement) and Agatos S (Chema-Elektromet, Poland) (Zinc Phosphate Cement). Texture and fractal dimension analysis was applied. An evaluation of cytotoxicity and cell adhesion was carried out. The fractal dimension of Breeze (Pentron Clinical, USA) differed in each of the tested types of cement. Adhesor Carbofine (Pentron, Czech Republic) cytotoxicity was rated 4 on a 0-4 scale. The Ketac Fil Plus (3M ESPE, Germany) and Riva Self Cure (SDI, Australia) cements showed the most favorable conditions for the adhesion of fibroblasts, despite statistically significant differences in the fractal dimension of their surfaces.

Expression of Programmed Death Receptor 1 (PD-1) Gene and Its Ligand (PD-L1) in Patients with Laryngeal Cancer.

(1) Background: The interaction of the programmed death receptor (PD-1) with its ligand 1 (PD-L1) allows cancer cells to escape from the control of the immune system. Research evaluating the expression of immune checkpoint genes in the tissues of laryngeal tumors may contribute to the introduction of new effective immunotherapeutic methods in this group of neoplasms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of the gene for the programmed death receptor (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) in laryngeal tumors (T1, T2, T3) in patients without lymph node involvement and distant metastases. (2) Methods: The study included 73 patients: 39 of them were diagnosed with carcinoma planoepiteliale keratodes (study group) and 34 with nasal septal deviation undergoing septoplasty (control group). Biological material for molecular tests (Real time PCR) was collected during surgical procedures. Furthermore, all study participants completed a questionnaire regarding, among others, smoking and body weight. (3) Results: Gene expression for programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) and its ligand 1 (PD-L1) was, statistically, significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in tumor tissue than in unchanged mucosa. Moreover, it was found that the greater the tumor size, the higher the expression level of the tested molecules. (4) Conclusions: Although further research on the role of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in laryngeal tumors is necessary, the presented reports are promising and may constitute a contribution to considerations on the introduction of targeted immunotherapy with anti-PD1 and anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of these tumors.

Bioaccumulation of Macronutrients in Edible Mushrooms in Various Habitat Conditions of NW Poland-Role in the Human Diet.

Recently, the interest in mushroom consumption has been growing, since their taste and low calorific value are appreciated, but also due to their nutritional value. In determining the usefulness of mushrooms in the human diet, it is important to consider the conditions of their occurrence to perform the assessment of bioaccumulation of minerals. The aim of the study was: (a) to determine the content of selected macronutrients (P, K, Ca, Mg, Na) in fruiting bodies of Boletus edulis, Imleria badia, Leccinum scabrum and the soils, (b) to determine their bioaccumulation potential taking into account the habitat conditions, and (c) an attempt to estimate their role in covering the requirement for macronutrients of the human organism. The research material was obtained in the NW of Poland: Uznam and Wolin, the Drawa Plain and the Insko Lakeland. In the soil, we determined the content of organic matter, pH, salinity and the content of absorbable and general forms of macronutrients. The content of macronutrients in mushrooms was also determined. Chemical analyses were performed using the generally accepted test methods. The study showed that in NW Poland, B. edulis grew on the acidic soils of Arenosols, and I. badia and L. scabrum grew on Podzols. The uptake of K, Mg and Ca by the tested mushrooms was positively, and P and Na negatively correlated with the content of these elements in the soil. The acidity of the soil affected the uptake of K and Mg by mushrooms. There was no effect of the amount of organic matter in the soil noticed on the content of macronutrients (except sodium) in mushrooms. Among the studied macronutrients, none of the mushrooms accumulated Ca, while P and K were generally accumulated in the highest amounts, regardless of the species. Each of the other elements was usually accumulated at a similar level in the fruiting bodies of the species we studied. The exception was I. badia, which accumulated higher amounts of Mg compared to B. edulis and L. scabrum. Mushrooms can enrich the diet with some macronutrients, especially in P and K.

Correlational nutritional relationships and interactions between expansive holoparasite Orobanche laxissima and woody hosts on metal-rich soils.

Plant parasitism by other plants, combined with abiotic environmental stress, offers a unique opportunity to study correlational nutritional relationships in terms of parasite-host interactions and their functional roles in nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Our study analysed the transfer of selected mineral elements, including heavy metals, from soil to different organs in hosts (Punica granatum and Fraxinus angustifolia) and from hosts to the expansive holoparasite (Orobanche laxissima) in cinnamonic soil habitats in Georgia (Caucasus). We also identified other correlated trophic and bioactive effects in the parasite-host relationship. O. laxissima was characterized by a high accumulation tendency for micro- and macroelements, such as K and Ca, and heavy metals, such as Zn, Ni, and Cd. Parasites can reduce the concentration of heavy metals in host tissues owing to this high accumulation tendency. In total, 85 compounds were identified in the examined parasite and its hosts. Despite the distinct phytochemical content of species of the infected host, the parasite produced specific metabolites with dominant phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs), with acteoside and crenatoside being the primary dominant compounds - ca. 98% of all polyphenols. Polyphenols in parasite specimens that are correlated with Cu and Zn are antagonistic to polyphenols correlated with Fe, Pb, Cr, and Ni. The profile of polyphenols in the host species was both qualitatively and quantitatively distinct from the profile of the compounds in the parasite and between hosts (only acteoside in group PhGs was common between the parasite and Fraxinus host), which indicates the existence of a unique compound biosynthesis pathway in the parasite. Our results demonstrated that the parasite, particularly in its flowers, exhibited higher polyphenol content, antioxidative effects (ABTS-+, DPPH, and FRAP), and inhibitory effects.

Group-based shame, guilt, and regret across cultures.

To date, there has been no systematic examination of cross-cultural differences in group-based shame, guilt, and regret following wrongdoing. Using a community sample (N = 1358), we examined people's reported experiences of shame, guilt, and regret following transgressions by themselves and by different identity groups (i.e., family, community, country) in Burkina Faso, Costa Rica, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, the Netherlands, Poland, and the United States. We assessed whether any variation in this regard can be explained by the relative endorsement of individualistic or collectivistic values at the individual level and at the country level. Our findings suggest that people's reported experience of these emotions mostly depends on the transgression level. We also observe some variation across individuals and countries, which can be partially explained by the endorsement of collectivistic and individualistic values. The results highlight the importance of taking into account individual and cultural values when studying group-based emotions, as well as the identity groups involved in the transgression.

An Experiencer, An Animal or An Object? Erection Salience Decreases Men's Perceived Agency.

Three experiments investigated the influence of penile erection on ascriptions of mental capabilities to men. Drawing on sexual objectification literature and the distinction between agency and experience in mind perception, three competing predictions were formulated. The mind redistribution hypothesis assumed that penile erection would lower agency and heighten experience attributions, the animalistic dehumanization hypothesis predicted the decrease in agency, but not experience, and the literal objectification hypothesis implied the simultaneous decrease in both agency and experience. In Experiment 1 (N = 219; 128 females), erection salience lowered agency, but not experience capabilities ascribed to male targets. Experiment 2 (N = 201, 113 females) replicated the negative effect of erection salience on perceived agency (but not experience) and revealed that erection salience lowered intentions to hire a male target. This effect was explained with the loss of perceived agency. Experiment 3 (N = 203, 98 females) verified the causal relationship between penile erection, agency and hiring intentions. Taken together, these results supported the animalistic dehumanization hypothesis.

A Summary of In Vitro and In Vivo Studies Evaluating the Impact of E-Cigarette Exposure on Living Organisms and the Environment.

Worldwide use of electronic cigarettes has been rapidly expanding over recent years, but the long-term effect of e-cigarette vapor exposure on human health and environment is not well established; however, its mechanism of action entails the production of reactive oxygen species and trace metals, and the exacerbation of inflammation, which are associated with potential cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. The present study examines the effects of selected liquid chemicals used in e-cigarettes, such as propylene glycol/vegetable glycerin, nicotine and flavorings, on living organisms; the data collected indicates that exposure to e-cigarette liquid has potentially detrimental effects on cells in vitro, and on animals and humans in vivo. While e-liquid exposure can adversely influence the physiology of living organisms, vaping is recommended as an alternative for tobacco smoking. The study also compares the impact of e-cigarette liquid exposure and traditional cigarette smoke on organisms and the environmental impact. The environmental influence of e-cigarette use is closely connected with the emission of airborne particulate matter, suggesting the possibility of passive smoking. The obtained data provides an insight into the impact of nicotine delivery systems on living organisms and the environment.

Plant Extracts and Reactive Oxygen Species as Two Counteracting Agents with Anti- and Pro-Obesity Properties.

Obesity is a complex disease of great public health significance worldwide: It entails several complications including diabetes mellitus type 2, cardiovascular dysfunction and hypertension, and its prevalence is increasing around the world. The pathogenesis of obesity is closely related to reactive oxygen species. The role of reactive oxygen species as regulatory factors in mitochondrial activity in obese subjects, molecules taking part in inflammation processes linked to excessive size and number of adipocytes, and as agents governing the energy balance in hypothalamus neurons has been examined. Phytotherapy is the traditional form of treating health problems using plant-derived medications. Some plant extracts are known to act as anti-obesity agents and have been screened in in vitro models based on the inhibition of lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells and activity of pancreatic lipase methods and in in vivo high-fat diet-induced obesity rat/mouse models and human models. Plant products may be a good natural alternative for weight management and a source of numerous biologically-active chemicals, including antioxidant polyphenols that can counteract the oxidative stress associated with obesity. This review presents polyphenols as natural complementary therapy, and a good nutritional strategy, for treating obesity without serious side effects.