Efficacy and Safety of Two Chondroprotective Supplements in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Pilot Study.

Background: Hyaluronic acid (HA), glucosamine (Glc), and chondroitin sulfate (CS) are key ingredients commonly incorporated into dietary chondroprotective supplements for the management of osteoarthritis (OA). Despite their widespread use, there is a paucity of published data regarding their efficacy and safety, necessitating rigorous investigation in clinical settings. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a randomized, single-blind pilot study to evaluate the effects of two commercially available multi-ingredient supplements on patients with mild-to-moderate knee OA. Methods: A total of 51 patients diagnosed with mild-to-moderate knee OA were enrolled in a four-week randomized study and allocated equally (1:1:1 ratio) into three groups: a control group (n = 17) that received no treatment, an HA group (n = 17) given Syalox® 300 Plus (1 tablet/day) containing HA (300 mg) and Boswellia serrata extract (100 mg), and a Glc + CS group (n = 17) given Cartijoint® Forte (1 tablet/day) containing Glc (415 mg), CS (400 mg), and curcuminoids from rhizomes of Curcuma longa L (50 mg).Physicians conducting evaluations were blinded to group assignments, whereas patients were not. All participants underwent assessments of pain relief, functional capacity improvement, and serum adropin levels, an emerging biomarker of knee OA, at baseline and after the four-week intervention period. Results: Both the HA and the Glc + CS groups exhibited improvements at the end of the study relative to baseline, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) observed in pain at rest, pain during movement, range of motion, and the overall Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores, including its pain, stiffness, and physical function subscales. Notably, the HA group outperformed the Glc + CS group in the alleviation of pain at rest, pain during movement, and on the WOMAC pain subscale, with all differences being statistically significant (p < 0.05). Additionally, both groups showed a significant elevation in serum adropin levels from baseline (p < 0.05), with the HA group experiencing a more substantial increase when compared to the Glc + CS group (p < 0.05). Both supplements showed a limited number of treatment-emergent adverse events. Conclusion: Oral supplementation with either HA or Glc + CS demonstrated potential benefits for managing symptoms of mild-to-moderate knee OA. Notably, HA supplementation was associated with greater improvements in pain relief and higher elevations in serum adropin levels compared to Glc + CS supplementation. However, larger-scale and longer-term studies are necessary to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of these dietary supplements within the clinical management arsenal for knee OA.

Potential Biomarkers of Resilience to Microgravity Hazards in Astronauts.

Space exploration exposes astronauts to the unique environment of microgravity, which poses significant health challenges. Identifying biomarkers that can predict an individual's resilience to the stressors of microgravity holds great promise for optimizing astronaut selection and developing personalized countermeasures. This narrative review examines the principal health risks associated with microgravity and explores potential biomarkers indicative of resilience. The biomarkers being evaluated represent a broad spectrum of physiological domains, including musculoskeletal, neurological, immunological, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and cutaneous systems. Earth-based microgravity analogs, such as dry immersion and head-down tilt bed rest, may provide valuable platforms to validate candidate biomarkers. However, biomarker sensitivity and specificity must be further evaluated to ensure efficacy and reliability. Establishing a panel of biomarkers predictive of resilience to microgravity-induced health risks would significantly enhance astronaut health and mission success, especially for long-duration exploration missions. Insights gained may also translate to health conditions on Earth characterized by reduced physical activity and mechanical loading.

Occupational Health Challenges for Aviation Workers Amid the Changing Climate: A Narrative Review.

Although there are many forecasts regarding the impact of climate change on the aviation sector, a critical but frequently neglected dimension is the occupational safety risks faced by aviation professionals. This narrative review explores the potential impacts of the changing climate on the health and safety of aviation personnel. Furthermore, we examine the significance of resilience in helping these workers adapt and effectively manage climate-related challenges in their professional lives. Climate change poses increasing threats to the well-being of flight personnel through elevated temperatures, heightened ultraviolet radiation exposure, increased mental workload from extreme weather events, and other psychological stressors. Building resilience through workforce training, planning, and adaptation can reduce vulnerability. In future research, the iterative process of selecting measurement components to gauge the impact of climate change should balance feasibility, relevance for stakeholders, and accurately capturing exposure effects. For instance, while salivary cortisol measures stress biologically, assessments of depression or burnout may provide more nuanced insights on pilot health for industry decision-makers managing climate impacts. In conclusion, a strategic emphasis on enhancing the physical and psychological well-being of the aviation workforce is imperative for facilitating a more efficient adaptation within the sector. This is of paramount importance, considering the critical function that aviation serves in fostering human connectivity. Consequently, it is essential for regulatory bodies and policymakers to prioritize the safeguarding of employee health in the face of climate change challenges.

Serum Prestin and Otolin-1 Levels in Pilots of Helicopter-Based Emergency Medical Services: Potential Markers for Ear Injury.

INTRODUCTION: Occupational noise exposure is a major public health concern, impacting a large workforce worldwide. In this study, we sought to evaluate the serum concentrations of prestin, a cochlear protein that diminishes following noise exposure, and otolin-1, a protein secreted into the bloodstream subsequent to inner ear damage, among three diverse professional categories, each exposed to varying degrees of noise. Helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) pilots and construction workers were considered high-risk groups due to their elevated exposure to occupational noise, whereas office workers were regarded as a low-risk group, reflecting their comparatively minimal noise exposure. METHODS: The study sample included 60 males, encompassing helicopter pilots, construction laborers, and office workers (n=20, each). Recruitment occurred during standard occupational health visits, with all participants presenting normal clinical audiograms. Serum levels of prestin and otolin-1 were measured in duplicate using commercially available immunoassays and compared across the three professional categories. RESULTS: HEMS pilots had the lowest mean serum prestin level at 211±27 pg/mL, followed by construction workers at 234±29 pg/mL, and office workers at 269±42 pg/mL (p<0.001, one-way analysis of variance), with all inter-group differences statistically significant (p<0.05, Tukey's post hoc tests). For otolin-1, HEMS pilots showed the highest mean at 216±20 pg/mL, with construction workers at 196±22 pg/mL, and office workers at 181±20 pg/mL (p<0.001, one-way analysis of variance). Statistically significant differences were found between HEMS pilots and both other groups for otolin-1 levels (p<0.05, Tukey's post hoc tests), but not between construction workers and office workers. CONCLUSIONS:  Serum concentrations of prestin and otolin-1 may differ among healthy individuals according to their occupational noise exposure and have the potential to act as indicators of subclinical inner ear injury. To substantiate these preliminary observations, incorporating exposure assessment, especially via direct measurements of noise and vibration exposure, would markedly improve the reliability of our findings.

Successful Management of Chronic Wounds by an Autophagy-Activating Magnetized Water-Based Gel in Elderly Patients: A Case Series.

Chronic wounds pose a significant threat to human health, particularly for the elderly, and require extensive healthcare resources globally. Autophagy, a key molecular player in wound healing, not only offers a defense against infections but also contributes to the deposition of the extracellular matrix during the proliferative phase. Additionally, it promotes the proliferation and differentiation of endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and keratinocytes. We have recently shown that applying magnetized saline water topically can trigger autophagy in intact skin. In this case series, we document the successful management of five non-infected, difficult-to-heal wounds in elderly patients using a topical autophagy-stimulating gel containing 95% magnetized saline water. The treated wounds included pressure ulcers, venous ulcers, and trauma-related injuries that had shown minimal or no improvement with standard wound therapies over a prolonged period. Application of the autophagy-stimulating gel promoted wound healing, as indicated by reduced fibrous and necrotic tissue, granulation tissue formation, re-epithelialization, and partial or complete wound closure. These preliminary case studies suggest that a topical gel containing magnetized saline water, which promotes autophagy, may aid healing of chronic wounds in elderly patients. Further investigation is warranted to explore the potential of this novel approach, as it may offer a valuable addition to the existing arsenal of wound care treatments for the aging population, particularly in addressing difficult-to-heal wounds.

Real-World Outcomes of Lip Augmentation Using a Hyaluronic Acid-Based Filler With Low 1,4-Butanediol Diglycidyl Ether Content: A Prospective, Open-Label, Multicenter, Post-marketing Study.

Background 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE) is the most common cross-linker used to produce hyaluronic acid (HA)-based dermal fillers. However, BDDE may have cytotoxic and potentially mutagenic effects, raising safety concerns. Consequently, manufacturers are developing new HA filler formulations with reduced BDDE levels to mitigate potential biological risks. Here, we sought to evaluate the clinical outcomes of lip augmentation performed using an HA-based filler with a reduced BDDE content (Agex Fill Volume®; Biodue SpA, Barberino Tavarnelle, Italy) in a real-world clinical setting. Methods This was a prospective, open-label, multicenter, post-marketing study conducted over six months. Thirty adult subjects (29 women and one man) who desired a ≥1-point improvement on the validated Lip Fullness Scale 2 (LFS2) were enrolled. The primary efficacy endpoint was the post-procedural increase in the investigator-reported LFS2 compared to baseline. Other endpoints included self-perceived happiness assessed using the Happiness Measure Scale (HMS) and safety. Results Of the study participants, 73% (22/30) demonstrated an improvement of at least one point in their LFS2 scores immediately after treatment compared to baseline, thus qualifying as responders. Six months later, the responder rate, based on LFS2 scores, remained steady at 66.7% (20/30). Importantly, these aesthetic improvements were consistently associated with a positive impact on subject-reported HMS, with a significant difference (p < 0.001) between post-treatment and baseline scores. All adverse events (AEs) reported after treatment were mild. Conclusions Agex Fill Volume®, a HA filler with low BDDE content, provides a safe and effective option for enhancing lip volume in real-world aesthetic settings.

Subjective Dry Eye Symptoms and Objective Ocular Surface Signs in a Civil Air Crew Population: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Aviation professionals are often exposed to conditions such as low cabin air pressure, reduced humidity, and prolonged artificial lighting, which may predispose them to dry eye disease (DED). We therefore designed a cross-sectional study with three primary objectives. Our first aim was to determine the prevalence of subjective dry eye symptoms among civil flight personnel. To achieve this, we administered the Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) questionnaire. Second, we performed ocular examinations to assess objective DED indicators, such as the Schirmer's-1 (SCH-1) test and tear film break-up time (TBUT). We then correlated the results of these objective tests with the subjective symptoms reported by the participants. Last, we aimed to identify the independent risk factors for positive SCH-1 and TBUT results among aircrew personnel who did not report subjective dry eye symptoms. Methods The study sample consisted of 189 aircrew personnel (94 men and 95 women; mean age: 35.8 ± 10.4 years). They completed the SPEED questionnaire, a tool for assessing ocular surface symptoms. Participants' symptoms were classified as normal (SPEED scores 0-6), moderate (SPEED scores 7-15), or severe (SPEED scores 16-28). The objective assessment included the SCH-1 test for tear production and the TBUT test for tear film quality. Results A significant majority of participants (n = 165; 87.3%) did not report any subjective symptoms of DED. However, 12.2% (n = 23) and 0.5% (n = 1) of the study subjects experienced moderate and severe symptoms, respectively. The SCH-1 test and TBUT test were positive in 25.4% (n = 48) and 24.9% (n = 47) of the participants, respectively. Interestingly, among the aircrew personnel who did not report any subjective dry eye symptoms (SPEED scores 0-6), 18.8% (n = 31) and 17.6% (n = 29) showed abnormal results on the SCH-1 test and TBUT, respectively. Age was identified as the only independent predictor of a positive TBUT (odds ratio = 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.01-1.08, p = 0.01), with a borderline significant association with a positive SCH-1 test (odds ratio = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.99-1.07, p = 0.06). Conclusions The disparity between subjective symptoms and objective tests emphasizes the significance of incorporating objective measures for screening and diagnosing DED in civil flight personnel. If independently confirmed by future research, our findings could potentially lead to the routine implementation of surveillance protocols that incorporate objective DED indicators. Moreover, as age emerged as an independent predictor of positive results on objective tests, it is crucial to consider age-specific screening strategies.

Relation of Sleep Quality to a Panel of Plasma Cardiometabolic Markers in Airline Pilots: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Insomnia and poor sleep are leading modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Given the high susceptibility of airline pilots (APs) to sleep disturbances, we sought to investigate the hypothesis that poor sleep in this professional group correlates with alterations in plasma biochemical markers that would reflect critical aspects in the pathophysiology of cardiometabolic disorders. Methods In this preliminary cross-sectional study, we examined the relation of poor sleep to fourteen plasma biomarkers reflecting multiple cardiometabolic pathways in a convenience sample of 117 male APs. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to categorize the participants into good sleepers (n = 70, 59.8%; PSQI scores from 0 to 4) and poor sleepers (n = 47, 40.2%; PSQI scores of 5 or higher). The concentrations of biomarkers were compared between the two groups using both univariable and multivariable analyses. Results Compared to good sleepers, APs identified as poor sleepers exhibited significantly different levels of four plasma cardiometabolic biochemical markers in univariable analysis. However, in multivariable-adjusted analysis, only three biomarkers, adiponectin, fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-21, and growth differentiation factor (GDF)-15, remained independently associated with poor sleep. Conclusion Poor sleep quality in APs correlates with lower plasma concentrations of adiponectin and elevated levels of FGF-21 and GDF-15. Further longitudinal studies are required to elucidate the role of these biomarkers in the link between sleep disturbances and cardiometabolic risk in this professional group.

Clinically Actionable Topical Strategies for Addressing the Hallmarks of Skin Aging: A Primer for Aesthetic Medicine Practitioners.

In this narrative review, we sought to provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying cutaneous senescence, framed by the twelve traditional hallmarks of aging. These include genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis, impaired macroautophagy, deregulated nutrient sensing, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion, altered intercellular communication, chronic inflammation, and dysbiosis. We also examined how topical interventions targeting these hallmarks can be integrated with conventional aesthetic medicine techniques to enhance skin rejuvenation. The potential of combining targeted topical therapies against the aging hallmarks with minimally invasive procedures represents a significant advancement in aesthetic medicine, offering personalized and effective strategies to combat skin aging. The reviewed evidence paves the way for future advancements and underscores the transformative potential of integrating scientifically validated interventions targeted against aging hallmarks into traditional aesthetic practices.

Probiotic Supplementation With Saccharomyces boulardii and Enterococcus faecium Improves Gastric Pain and Bloating in Airline Pilots With Chronic Non-atrophic Gastritis: An Open-Label Study.

Background Commercial airline pilots (APs) are prone to upper gastrointestinal symptoms, such as epigastric pain and bloating. These issues are often linked to occupational risk factors like irregular diet, sleep disruption, and circadian rhythm disturbance. The use of probiotics to enhance intestinal health is well established, but their efficacy in treating upper gastrointestinal diseases is still debated. This is primarily due to the stomach's small resident microbiota and its low pH, which is inhospitable to most microbes. However, emerging research suggests that specific probiotic strains, such as Enterococcus faecium, can withstand acidic environments. Moreover, certain yeast species, including Saccharomyces boulardii, can survive at a low pH. Consequently, we conducted a preliminary, three-arm, randomized, open-label, dose-finding, four-week study to compare the effects of watchful waiting (WW) with the administration of an oral probiotic supplement containing S. boulardii and E. faecium in APs diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori-negative chronic non-atrophic gastritis (CNG). Methods The study included 39 APs with CNG who were randomized into three groups with a 1:1:1 ratio. The low-dose group (n = 13) received one capsule of the probiotic supplement twice daily, before meals, for four weeks. The high-dose group (n = 13) was administered two capsules of the supplement on the same schedule. The third group (n = 13) underwent WW and served as the control arm. Blinding was maintained for the examining physicians and laboratory staff, but not for the patients. All participants self-rated their experiences of gastric pain and bloating at the beginning and conclusion of the four-week treatment period. Additionally, serum levels of pepsinogen I (PGI) and pepsinogen II (PGII) were measured at these time points. Results Supplementation with probiotics significantly outperformed WW in reducing subjective gastric pain and bloating. This effect was consistent across both tested dosages, with no significant differences observed. However, only high-dose probiotics led to a statistically significant decrease in PGII levels and an increase in the PGI/PGII ratio after the four-week study period, a result not observed with low-dose probiotics. Conclusions Oral administration of S. boulardii and E. faecium demonstrated potential efficacy in reducing gastric pain and bloating symptoms in APs with CNG, as evidenced by statistically significant symptom improvement compared to the control group that did not receive the probiotic supplementation. Notably, high-dose probiotics resulted in a significant increase in the PGI/PGII ratio, indicating potential long-term cytoprotective effects on the gastric mucosa.

Prevalence of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in apparently healthy airline pilots: A transient elastography study.

Background and Aim: Airline pilots (APs) are often characterized by a sedentary lifestyle, predisposing them to adverse cardiometabolic consequences. In this cross-sectional study, we used transient elastography (TE) to investigate the prevalence of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis among apparently healthy APs. Materials and Methods: The study cohort consisted of 137 male APs of Caucasian descent who voluntarily underwent TE. To evaluate the extent and severity of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, we employed established cutoff values for the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and liver stiffness measurement (LSM). Results: Of the APs, 34 (24.8%) were diagnosed with TE-defined steatosis. Specifically, 25 APs (18.2%) exhibited mild steatosis, 6 (4.4%) moderate steatosis, and 3 (2.2%) severe steatosis. The majority of participants (80 APs or 58.4%) showed no signs of liver fibrosis based on LSM values. However, 49 APs (35.8%) were diagnosed with mild fibrosis (F1), 7 (5.1%) with significant fibrosis (F2), and one (0.7%) with advanced fibrosis (F3). None of the pilots had F4 (cirrhosis). In multivariable linear regression analysis, BMI was the sole independent predictor of both CAP (ß=0.34, p<0.001) and LSM (ß=0.41, p<0.001) values in our sample of male APs. Conclusion: TE is a straightforward and convenient non-invasive method for detecting hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in high-risk occupational groups such as APs.

Topically Applied Magnetized Saline Water Improves Skin Biophysical Parameters Through Autophagy Activation: A Pilot Study.

Background Water exposed to a magnetic field exhibits several changes in its properties, such as increased electrical conductivity, reduced density, and low surface tension. Additionally, it has reduced dissolved oxygen levels and becomes more alkaline. Previous experimental studies have demonstrated that exposure to saline alkaline water leads to a dose-dependent increase in the expression of autophagy-related genes. Here, we hypothesize that the topical application of magnetized alkaline water to the skin can activate autophagy and improve cutaneous biophysical parameters, making it a promising strategy for enhancing skin aesthetics. Methods Two distinct substudies were undertaken. Firstly, a 12-week, uncontrolled, open-label investigation was conducted with 20 females who desired to enhance the appearance of their facial and neck skin. Secondly, a molecular study was carried out on a subset of 10 females to investigate the serum's impact on two autophagy markers (Beclin-1 and mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin {mTOR}) in skin biopsies taken from the posterior neck area below the hair attachment line. Results After a period of 12 weeks, the application of the serum resulted in significant improvements in skin hydration within the stratum corneum (56 ± 14 arbitrary units {a.u.}) compared to the baseline measurement (47 ± 12 a.u.; p < 0.001). Moreover, the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) decreased from 14 ± 2 g/m2/hour to 11 ± 3 g/m2/hour (p < 0.001). The results also revealed a notable reduction in sebum content from 38 ± 7 µg/cm2 to 30 ± 4 µg/cm2 after the 12-week period of serum application (<0.001). Additionally, the melanin index (p < 0.01) and erythema index (p < 0.001) were both significantly lower at 12 weeks compared to baseline. The molecular study showed a 38% increase in Beclin-1 levels after 12 weeks of serum application on the posterior neck area, as measured from skin biopsies. In contrast, mTOR levels decreased by 24% from baseline to 12 weeks. Conclusion The application of magnetized saline water topically, within a serum formulation, shows potential in improving skin biophysical parameters for females seeking to enhance the appearance of their facial and neck skin. These beneficial effects are achieved through the activation of cutaneous autophagy, as evidenced by an increase in Beclin-1 expression and a decrease in mTOR content in the skin.

Topically Applied Magnetized Saline Water Activates Autophagy in the Scalp and Increases Hair Count and Hair Mass Index in Men With Mild-to-Moderate Androgenetic Alopecia.

Introduction Water is essential for life and is vital for almost all functions of the human body. Recent studies have shown that treating water with magnets can alter its physicochemical properties, including intracluster bonds and water-ion interactions. Magnetized water also undergoes modifications in its physicochemical characteristics, such as pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen. While there is a significant amount of literature on the use of magnetized water in agricultural settings, research on its potential biomedical applications is still limited. Based on previous findings indicating a potential relationship between autophagy activation and hair loss reversal, a pilot study was designed to explore the effects of topically applied magnetized saline water in patients with androgenetic alopecia. The hypothesis was that the process of water magnetization, which promotes the creation of hydroxyl ions, could potentially induce hair growth through the induction of alkali-induced autophagy in the scalp. Methods We recruited 20 Caucasian men with mild-to-moderate androgenetic alopecia (Norwood-Hamilton stages II-III). Initially, we conducted a 12-week open-label study to evaluate the potential of a topical lotion containing 95% magnetized saline water (2 mL applied once daily) to increase hair count and hair mass index (HMI). Subsequently, we investigated the effect of the lotion on two autophagy markers (Beclin-1 and LC3B) in scalp biopsies from a subgroup of 10 men. Results Hair count significantly increased after 12 weeks of topical treatment with magnetized saline water (from 20.6 ± 9.8 at baseline to 32.5 ± 12.4 at 12 weeks, P < 0.001). Similarly, the mean HMI increased from 37.8 ± 11.4 at baseline to 45.1 ± 13.6 at 12 weeks (P < 0.01). At the molecular level, the topical lotion effectively increased Beclin-1 levels in scalp biopsies by 44% at 12 weeks as compared to the baseline. Similarly, LC3B levels increased by 36% from baseline to 12 weeks, indicating that the lotion effectively activated autophagy in the scalp. Conclusions After 12 weeks of topical treatment, a lotion containing magnetized saline water activated scalp autophagy and significantly increased hair count and HMI in men with mild-to-moderate androgenetic alopecia.

Evaluating the Serum Levels of Beclin-1 and Mammalian/Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) in Three Different Professional Categories.

BACKGROUND: The possible associations between occupational factors and autophagy - a catabolic process that is evolutionarily conserved and serves as a vital cornerstone in maintaining cellular balance - remain largely unexplored. OBJECTIVES: We assessed serum levels of beclin-1, a principal effector of autophagy, and the mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), a protein recognized for its part in suppressing autophagy, within a group of healthy individuals hailing from three different professional fields, each characterized by its unique working conditions. METHODS: A total of 60 men were recruited from three distinct occupational categories: airline pilots, construction laborers, and fitness trainers. Each group consisted of 20 subjects who were selected during routine occupational health appointments. Serum levels of beclin-1 and mTOR were measured using commercially available immunoassays and compared among the three categories. RESULTS: Fitness instructors had the highest concentration of beclin-1 (3.1 ± 0.9 ng/mL). Construction workers followed with a mean of 2.4 ± 0.4 ng/mL, while airline pilots had the lowest levels at 1.9 ± 0.5 ng/mL (one-way analysis of variance, P < 0.001). In terms of mTOR levels, construction workers had the highest concentration (5.9 ± 1.9 ng/mL), followed by airline pilots (4.4 ± 1.7 ng/mL). Fitness instructors, on the other hand, had the lowest mTOR levels (3.5 ± 1.2 ng/mL; one-way analysis of variance, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Serum levels of autophagy biomarkers can vary among healthy individuals based on their professional roles. Considering the crucial function autophagy serves in both health and disease, further investigations are crucial to deepen our comprehension of the potential implications of autophagy in the field of occupational medicine.

Impact of Job Types on Plasma Neurotrophins Levels: A Preliminary Study in Airline Pilots, Construction Workers, and Fitness Instructors.

BACKGROUND: Neurotrophins (NTs) encompass a group of closely associated proteins regulating various aspects of neuronal growth and survival. The potential association between work-related factors and the levels of circulating NTs has not been extensively examined. In this preliminary investigation, we evaluated plasma concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) in a cohort of healthy individuals from three distinct professional categories, each with unique work environments and lifestyle factors. METHODS: The study involved 60 men from three professional fields: airline pilots, construction laborers, and fitness trainers (20 participants per category) recruited during routine occupational health appointments. Plasma levels of NTs were measured using commercially available immunoassays and compared in the three professional groups. RESULTS: Among the professions studied, fitness instructors displayed the highest concentrations of BDNF and NGF, with airline pilots ranking second, and construction workers showing the lowest levels. Significantly decreased NT-3 levels were observed in airline pilots compared to fitness instructors and construction workers, but no differences were found between the latter two occupations. NT-4 levels were similar across all three occupational groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our pilot results suggest that plasma concentrations of NTs, which are involved in various aspects of neuronal and cognitive functioning, may display significant differences among healthy individuals depending on their occupation. These observations warrant additional research to explore potential implications for the field of occupational medicine.

Exploring the Protective Efficacy of Topical Products for Actinic Keratosis Against Ultraviolet-Induced DNA and Protein Damage: An Experimental, Double-Blind Irradiation Study.

Introduction Numerous studies have delved into the clinical efficacy of different topical treatments for actinic keratosis (AK). However, our understanding remains limited regarding their capacity to prevent DNA and protein damage caused by ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Objectives The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the preventive capabilities of various AK-targeted products in countering DNA and protein alterations in human biopsies following exposure to experimental UVR. Methods Twelve healthy Caucasian volunteers (six men and six women) aged 18 years and above, with Fitzpatrick skin types II-III, participated in an experimental irradiation study. Six topical products, containing various ingredients (DNA repair enzymes, antioxidants, keratolytic agents, cyclooxygenase inhibitors, and/or sunscreens) were tested. The experimental sites were exposed to UVR at six times the minimal erythema dose for eight consecutive days. Each test product was applied 30 to 45 minutes before irradiation at a standard thickness of 2 mg/cm2. A control site was treated with the vehicle alone, serving as a negative control. The study focused on cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and protein carbonylation (PC) as molecular markers of UVR-induced DNA and protein damage, respectively. Results The efficacy of different AK-targeted topical products showed substantial variation when applied to normal skin before experimental exposure to UVR. While sunscreens, predictably, played a crucial role, additional ingredients (i.e., DNA repair enzymes and antioxidants) also acted as vital protective agents for both the cellular genome and proteome, shielding them against UVR-induced damage. Conclusion In topical products specifically designed for AK, the strategic integration of DNA repair enzymes and antioxidants, in addition to sunscreens, establishes a critical defense mechanism against the detrimental effects of UVR on cellular DNA and proteins.