For people with chronic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRD), such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or systemic sclerosis (SSc), normal cognitive functions are essential for performing daily activities. These diseases may be associated with cognitive dysfunction (CD). In RA, CD has been associated with age, lower education and disease duration and activity. Great advances have been achieved in neuropsychiatric SLE in the identification of pathogenic pathways, assessment and possible treatment strategies. SSc rarely exerts direct effects on the brain and cognitive function. However, the psychological burden that includes depression, anxiety and social impact may be high. AIRD patients with sustained disease activity, organ damage or lower education should be evaluated for CD. The control of systemic inflammation together with tailored behavioural cognitive therapies may benefit these patients.

Clinical trials serve as a cornerstone in the meticulous assessment of the efficacy and myriad health benefits that functional foods offer. These trials are not merely confined to the specific domain of functional foods; rather, they resonate throughout the expansive realms of nutrition science and public health, illuminating the intricate interdependencies that exist among these disciplines. This interconnectedness is becoming increasingly apparent, emphasizing the significant influence of scientific inquiry on fostering healthier dietary habits and shaping well-informed public health strategies. Functional food clinical trials yield essential insights into the potential of functional foods to enhance health outcomes, thereby playing a pivotal role in the prevention of various ailments and substantially elevating the quality of life for individuals in diverse contexts. By delivering consistent and compelling results, these trials bolster the foundational knowledge requisite healthcare practitioners to navigate dietary decisions wisely. Ultimately, the impact of such trials transcends individual health, contributing to the collective well-being of communities. They serve as a vital link between scientific progress and practical implementation, ensuring that the benefits of research are seamlessly integrated into everyday dietary practices, thereby promoting a healthier society at large.

Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) is a low-molecular-weight natural chemical predominantly obtained from the autolysis of sinigrin, a glucosinolate found in cruciferous vegetables like mustard, horseradish, and wasabi. AITC has sparked widespread interest due to its various biological actions, which include strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer capabilities. This compound offers promising potential in several fields, particularly in food preservation, medicine, and enhancing food quality through natural means. AITC’s effectiveness against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including foodborne pathogens and spoilage agents, makes it an attractive natural alternative to synthetic preservatives. The potential to extend the shelf life of perishable foods makes AITC an important tool for food production, meeting rising customer demand for natural additives. In addition to its antimicrobial effects, AITC demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory activity, reducing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating key signaling pathways, which could make it valuable in managing chronic inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, emerging research highlights its potential in cancer prevention and treatment, as AITC has been demonstrated to induce apoptosis and inhibit cell increase in several cancer cell lines, offering a natural approach to chemoprevention. This review delves into the chemical structure, metabolism, and bioavailability of freshly produced AITC, providing a comprehensive overview of its beneficial properties. Challenges related to AITC’s volatility, dosage optimization, and regulatory considerations are also discussed, alongside future research directions to enhance the stability and efficacy of AITC-based formulations. The findings underscore AITC’s role as a versatile bioactive compound with known potential to support human health and the sustainable food industry.

The green walnut, which is frequently overlooked in favor of its more mature sibling, is becoming a topic of great significance because of its unique ecological role, culinary flexibility, and therapeutic richness. The investigation of the bioactive substances found in green walnuts and their possible effects on human health has therapeutic potential. Juglans regia L. is an important ecological component that affects soil health, biodiversity, and the overall ecological dynamic in habitats. Comprehending and recording these consequences are essential for environmental management and sustainable land-use strategies. Regarding cuisine, while black walnuts are frequently the main attraction, green walnuts have distinct tastes and textures that are used in a variety of dishes. Culinary innovation and the preservation of cultural food heritage depend on the understanding and exploration of these gastronomic characteristics. Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals are abundant in green walnuts, which have a comprehensive nutritional profile. Walnuts possess a wide range of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-function-enhancing properties. Consuming green walnuts as part of one’s diet helps with antioxidant defense, cardiovascular health, and general well-being. Juglans regia L., with its distinctive flavor and texture combination, is not only a delicious food but also supports sustainable nutrition practices. This review explores the nutritional and pharmacological properties of green walnuts, which can be further used for studies in various food and pharmaceutical applications.

Stroke has been associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We assessed patients with RA and healthy control subjects by transcranial Doppler (TCD), carotid ultrasonography and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Altogether, 41 female patients with RA undergoing methotrexate (MTX) or biologic treatment and 60 age-matched control subjects underwent TCD assessment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and basilar artery. Pulsatility index (PI), resistivity (resistance) index (RI) and circulatory reserve capacity (CRC) were determined at rest (r) and after apnoea (a) and hyperventilation (h). The presence of carotid plaques and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) were also determined. Intracerebral vascular lesions were investigated by brain MRI. MCA PI and RI values at rest and after apnoea were significantly increased in the total and MTX-treated RA populations vs control subjects. MCA CRC was also impaired, and basilar artery PI was higher in RA. More patients with RA had carotid plaques and increased cIMT. Linear regression analysis revealed that left PI(r) and RI(r) correlated with disease duration and that left PI(r), RI(r), PI(a), PI(h) and basilar PI correlated with disease activity. Right CRC inversely correlated with 28-joint Disease Activity Score. Disease activity was an independent determinant of left PI(a) and right CRC. Compared with long-term MTX treatment alone, the use of biologics in combination with MTX was associated with less impaired cerebral circulation. Impaired cerebral circulation was also associated with measures of carotid atherosclerosis. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show increased distal MCA and basilar artery occlusion in RA as determined by TCD. Patients with RA also had CRC defects. We also confirmed increased carotid plaque formation and increased cIMT. Biologics may beneficially influence some parameters in the intracranial vessels.

Cervical spine involvement may lead to severe complications in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the era of modern therapies, atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS) may be rare; however, it may still be detected in asymptomatic patients. The onset of myelopathy can occur at any time. Altogether 49 female RA patients were included. Among them, 15 were methotrexate treated, biologic free, while 34 patients received biologics. The patients had no cervical pain or any neurological symptoms. We assessed the first (C1) and second (C2) cervical vertebrae by 3 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In addition to AAS, we also determined odontoid erosion or periodontal soft tissue thickening. We associated our MRI findings with clinical, laboratory parameters, and hand radiography. We detected anterior AAS and soft tissue thickening in one-quarter, while odontoid erosions in eight (16%) of RA patients. There were no significant differences among the therapeutic subgroups. No posterior or vertical AAS was seen. Anterior AAS was associated with higher degree of inflammation, soft tissue thickening was seen at younger age, while odontoid erosions were associated with van der Heijde–Sharp scores of the hand. None of the patients had any lesions requiring surgery. The presence of cervical involvement in RA patients with 10–11 years of disease duration is still an important and frequent phenomenon. Higher disease activity and erosive disease are associated with atlantoaxial involvement. 3 T MRI is a sensitive method to assess AAS, as well as soft tissue lesions and odontoid erosions.