Therapeutic Tool Research Articles

Significance and clinical highlights of bone augmentation using fibrin-rich plasma and Bio-Oss®: a systematic review

Introduction: The number of dental implant procedures has been increasing worldwide, reaching about one million yearly. In Brazil, in the last decades, there has been a very rapid evolution in implant dentistry with high success rates. The development of biomaterials for use in dental clinics in recent years has represented a powerful therapeutic tool in the correction of bone defects. Objective: This study aimed, through a systematic literature review, to show the processes that involve bone formation for dental implants, with the use of biomaterials such as fibrin-rich plasma and Bio-Oss®. Methods: The PRISMA Platform systematic review rules were followed. The search was carried out from November 2024 to January 2025 in the Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument, and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: A total of 175 articles were found, and 65 articles were evaluated in full, and 56 were included and developed in the present systematic review study. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the overall assessment resulted in 10 studies with a high risk of bias and 20 that did not meet the GRADE and AMSTAR-2 criteria. According to the GRADE instrument, most studies presented homogeneity in their results, with X2=89.5%>50%. Literary findings have shown that Bio-Oss® and PRF work are essential for bone formation processes for dental implants, mainly in joint action.

Targeting Cell Signalling Pathways with New Small Molecules in Inflammation and Cancer.

In the treatment of cancer and inflammation, small molecules become powerful therapeutic tools that provide new therapeutic approaches with improved efficacy and fewer side effects. This review offers a thorough summary of current developments in small-molecule drugs that target cancer and inflammatory pathways. Specifically, inhibition of phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) and COX receptors have demonstrated potential in the field of inflammation to help mitigate a variety of inflammatory disorders. We examine the structural design, mechanism of action, and therapeutic potential of innovative small compounds that inhibit or alter these pathways. Significant attention is placed on the dual anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties of these substances. The evaluation emphasizes preclinical and clinical data, revealing the most promising candidates under development. In summary, the precise manipulation of cellular signalling pathways by small compounds constitutes a dynamic domain with the capacity to revolutionize therapeutic approaches for inflammation and cancer. Ongoing investigation of these chemicals is essential for the advancement of safer and more efficacious therapies.

Yoga as a Trauma-Informed Approach to Working with Clients

The practice of yoga has a long history of being used by practitioners for desired mental and physical benefits. The authors focused on the duality of this psychological and physical benefit when combining yoga with a traditional talk therapy group for individuals to process traumatic experiences. Group curriculum, procedures, and rationale are provided and reviewed. Yoga practices were implemented in this format as a form of expressive arts therapy for clients. This article outlines a therapeutic tool combining principles of yoga and talk therapy based on past research. This is not intended to be an empirical article; however, the information contributes to the current body of literature on yoga as a form of expressive arts therapy for clients with trauma-related presenting issues. The authors share anecdotal evidence of a counselor’s use of yoga in combination with group talk therapy and its perceived effectiveness on participants.

Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus—A Gap We Have to Bridge: A Review

Colonoscopy is an essential diagnostic and therapeutic tool in gastroenterology, significantly impacting colorectal cancer (CRC) detection and management. Effective bowel preparation is critical for optimal visualization, directly influencing colonoscopy accuracy and patient outcomes. However, diabetic patients frequently encounter challenges achieving adequate bowel preparation, primarily due to gastroparesis, autonomic neuropathy, altered colonic motility, fluid–electrolyte imbalances, and complexities related to antihyperglycemic medication adjustments. This review aims to evaluate the current literature on bowel preparation efficacy in diabetic patients undergoing colonoscopy, assess existing guidelines from leading gastroenterological societies, and highlight the necessity for detailed, diabetes-specific recommendations. We conducted a comprehensive PubMed search identifying 20 pertinent studies, including randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, multicenter studies, cohort studies, and reviews. The findings consistently indicate diabetes as an independent predictor of inadequate bowel preparation. Furthermore, an evaluation of guidelines from the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE), the US Multi-Society Task Force, and the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology revealed either absent or insufficiently detailed diabetes-specific recommendations. Given the rising global prevalence of diabetes and CRC, inadequate bowel preparation significantly impacts the quality of colonoscopy, adenoma detection rates, patient safety, and healthcare costs. This review underscores the urgent need for additional research focusing on tailored bowel preparation strategies for diabetic patients. Ultimately, the implementation of standardized, evidence-based protocols designed explicitly for this high-risk group is essential to enhance diagnostic efficacy, improve patient outcomes, and reduce CRC-related morbidity and mortality.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm: treatment strategies to combat infection.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic human pathogenic bacterium that is a common cause of both acute and chronic infections. Multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa poses a significant challenge to antibiotics and therapeutic approaches due to its pathogenicity, virulence, and biofilm-forming ability mediated by quorum sensing. Understanding the pathogenic mechanisms is essential for developing potential drug targets. In this regard, strategies aimed at combating the targeted inhibition of virulence, quorum sensing pathways, secretion systems, biofilm-associated two-component systems, and signalling system regulators (such as c-di-GMP) associated with biofilm formation are critical. Several new antimicrobial agents have been developed using these strategies, including antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophages, nanoantibiotics, photodynamics, and natural products, which are considered promising therapeutic tools. In this review, we address the concept of biofilms, their regulation, and recent treatment strategies to target P. aeruginosa, a clinically significant pathogen known for biofilm formation.

MiR-191-5p represents a potential personalized diagnostic and therapeutic tool in the pathophysiological interplay between obesity and prostate cancer

MiR-191-5p represents a potential personalized diagnostic and therapeutic tool in the pathophysiological interplay between obesity and prostate cancer

Defining the clinical value of MYD88, a component of the inflammasome machinery, as a diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic tool in brain endocrine cancers

Defining the clinical value of MYD88, a component of the inflammasome machinery, as a diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic tool in brain endocrine cancers

Redox Balance in Cancer in the Context of Tumor Prevention and Treatment

Malignant neoplasms constitute a substantial health concern for the human population, currently ranking as the second leading cause of mortality worldwide. In 2022, approximately 10 million deaths were attributable to cancer, and projections estimate that this number will rise to 35 million in 2050. Consequently, the development of effective cancer treatments and prevention strategies remains a primary focus of medical research. In this context, the impacts on the redox balance are being considered. The objective of this study was to present the current knowledge on oxidation and reduction processes in cancer. This review discloses the intricate and multifaceted interplay of oxidoreductive systems during carcinogenesis, which engenders discordant findings in the domain of tumor prevention and treatment. This study also examines the controversies surrounding the use of antioxidants, including their impact on other therapeutic interventions. The review offers a comprehensive overview of the existing knowledge on the subject, concluding that personalized and precise anticancer therapies targeting the redox processes can serve as both effective diagnostic and therapeutic tools.

Non-Thermal Plasma Attenuates TNF-α-Induced Endothelial Inflammation via ROS Modulation and NF-κB Inhibition.

Non-thermal plasma (NTP) has emerged as a promising therapeutic tool due to its anti-inflammatory properties; however, its molecular effects on vascular endothelial inflammation remain unclear. This study investigated the effects of NTP on tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-induced inflammation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). NTP treatment significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and downregulated the expression of adhesion molecules such as intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), which are key markers of endothelial activation. In addition, NTP suppressed mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Mechanistically, NTP inhibited the nuclear translocation of phosphorylated NF-κB p65, indicating attenuation of NF-κB signaling. These results demonstrate that NTP modulates inflammatory responses in endothelial cells by attenuating ROS generation and suppressing NF-κB-mediated signaling. Our findings suggest that NTP may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating vascular inflammation and related pathologies.

ZNF224 enhances the oncogenic function of p21 via p53 and AKT pathways in melanoma.

Expression of zinc finger protein 224 (ZNF224) is deregulated in various hematological and solid cancers, where its high protein levels correlate well with faster progression and worse prognosis due to activation of oncogenic pathways involved in promoting cell growth and survival, inhibiting apoptosis, and sustaining invasion and metastasis. In previous works, we identified ZNF224 as one of the mediators of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)-induced pro-tumoral activities in melanoma. In the present study, we thoroughly investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the oncogenic role of ZNF224 in this kind of cancer. We demonstrated that ZNF224 overexpression caused increased cell growth and reduced drug-mediated apoptosis by enhancing the dysregulated function of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1 [p21(CIP1/WAF1), also known as CDKN1A]. We provide strong evidence that ZNF224 overexpression in melanoma cell lines positively modulated p21(CIP1/WAF1) gene transcription in a p53-dependent manner and enhanced AKT-triggered p21(CIP1/WAF1) oncogenic effects through its protein cytosolic retention, inhibiting apoptosis and favoring cell proliferation. Analysis of transcriptomic data from human melanoma tissue samples confirmed a close relationship between p21(CIP1/WAF1) and ZNF224 in cells, at least as long as p53 functionality is maintained. The tumorigenic molecular mechanism involving ZNF224, identified in this study, provides new insights into understanding melanoma development and progression, breaking ground in the research for new therapeutic tools.

COLORING THE SOUL: THE USE OF SPLIT BATIK ART IN EMOTIONAL THERAPY FOR PEOPLE WITH MENTAL DISORDERS (ODGJ)

ODGJ (People with Mental Disorders) are individuals who have mental disorders that can affect their way of thinking, feeling and behavior. ODGJ are identical with unstable emotions, therefore they need activities that can accommodate their emotions. Through creative activities, it is hoped that it can be a place for them to express themselves. Batik splash is known for its free and expressive coloring technique. The creative process of batik splash is free and not bound by any rules. This batik splash work activity is very suitable for pouring out emotions for individuals. Based on this background, creative activities are used as emotional therapy for ODGJ. This activity is a creative process that is integrated into a therapy program to help ODGJ express emotions and overcome stress. This study involved an ODGJ group who participated in an eight-week batik splash learning session. The results showed that the activity of creating batik splash not only improved motor skills and creativity, but also contributed to improving the emotional well-being of participants. Through qualitative analysis, it was found that participants felt more able to express themselves and experienced a decrease in symptoms of anxiety and depression. These findings indicate that splash batik art can be an effective therapeutic tool in supporting the mental health of ODGJ, as well as providing new insights into the application of art in a therapeutic context. This article will inspire mental health practitioners and art activists to develop innovative and impactful therapy programs.

Secukinumab (Anti-IL-17) induces clinical regression in early diagnosed type 1 diabetes: A case report.

Secukinumab (Anti-IL-17) induces clinical regression in early diagnosed type 1 diabetes: A case report.

Oculomics: Current concepts and evidence.

Oculomics: Current concepts and evidence.

Exploring the Intersection of Art and Mental Health

The intersection of art and mental health has gained increasing academic and clinical attention as creative practices are recognized for their therapeutic potential. This paper examines the multifaceted role of art in enhancing mental well-being, tracing historical developments, cultural influences, and the emergence of art therapy as a formal discipline. Drawing upon psychological theories from Freud and Jung, the paper highlights how symbolic expression in art enables individuals to process emotions, trauma, and existential experiences. It examines how various art forms visual arts, music, dance, and digital media serve as therapeutic tools that can aid in emotional regulation, social connection, and cognitive development. Additionally, the study reviews the integration of arts into mental health treatment settings and evaluates the efficacy and challenges of expressive therapies. Through an interdisciplinary lens, the research illustrates how art functions not only as a mirror of internal states but also as a catalyst for healing, resilience, and personal growth. Keywords: Art Therapy, Mental Health, Creativity, Symbolism, Cultural Context, Psychological Theories, Expressive Arts, Emotional Healing.

Caring for the Patient During Bedside Bronchoscopy in the Critical Care Setting.

Bedside bronchoscopy is a pivotal diagnostic and therapeutic tool often used with critically ill patients in the critical care setting. Bronchoscopy allows for direct visualization of the airways and lung parenchyma and can be useful in evaluating different bronchopulmonary diseases including foreign bodies, tumors, infectious and inflammatory conditions, airway stenosis, and bronchopulmonary hemorrhage. This article explores bedside bronchoscopy in critically ill patients. Covering key areas from preprocedure preparation care, it emphasizes the nurse's role, procedural techniques, and adaptations. The focus extends to nurses' roles with emerging bedside bronchoscopy technologies and provides insight on implications for clinical practice. Bedside bronchoscopy serves as a vital tool in critical care, enabling both diagnosis and treatment of various pulmonary conditions. Nurses play a pivotal role in ensuring procedural success and patient safety, from preprocedure preparation to postprocedure monitoring. As technology evolves, nurses must adapt, embracing opportunities for ongoing learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, while also advocating for patient-centered care and ethical considerations in the integration of advanced technologies.

Cutting-edge RNA technologies to advance the understanding of learning and memory.

Cutting-edge RNA technologies to advance the understanding of learning and memory.

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) in the glioma metabolism: A potent enhancer of malignancy.

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) in the glioma metabolism: A potent enhancer of malignancy.

Interrogating language practices during clinical interviews: A therapeutic tool

Interrogating language practices during clinical interviews: A therapeutic tool

MGAT3 and MGAT5 overexpression alters the protein cargo of extracellular vesicles released by metastatic melanoma cells.

MGAT3 and MGAT5 overexpression alters the protein cargo of extracellular vesicles released by metastatic melanoma cells.

Exosome-based therapies and biomarkers in stroke: Current advances and future directions.

Exosome-based therapies and biomarkers in stroke: Current advances and future directions.