Functional Health Research Articles

A data-driven cluster analysis to explore cognitive reserve and modifiable risk factors in early phases of cognitive decline

The present study was aimed to cluster sub-groups of patients with varying degrees of cognitive impairment (Subjective Cognitive Decline, mild or Major Neurocognitive Disorder) based on their modifiable risk factors and cognitive reserve with k-means analysis. As a secondary analysis, we described the identified clusters from different perspectives, i.e., socio-demographic characteristics, cognitive functioning, and mental health. The analysis revealed two clusters, which were composed by 27 and 43 patients characterized by protective (Cluster 1) and unprotective (Cluster 2) everyday life habits, respectively. The two groups showed significant differences across all examined dimensions, with Cluster 1 demonstrating a more favourable profile compared to Cluster 2. Specifically, Cluster 1 exhibited advantages in: (1) sociodemographic (education, technological skills, and occupation), (2) cognitive (global cognitive functioning, executive functioning, and working memory), and (3) mental health (mood state and quality of life) characteristics. Such a finding is representative of a more positive individual wellbeing for people who adopt protective behaviours. In the field of dementia prevention, these results support the importance to intervene proactively and simultaneously in the management of multiple risk factors during the entire lifespan.

Thymoquinone-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles Combat Testicular Aging and Oxidative Stress Through SIRT1/FOXO3a Activation: An In Vivo and In Vitro Study

Background: Aging is a complex biological process characterized by the accumulation of molecular and cellular damage over time, often driven by oxidative stress. This oxidative stress is particularly detrimental to the testes, where it causes degeneration, reduced testosterone levels, and compromised fertility. D-galactose (D-gal) is commonly used to model aging as it induces oxidative stress, mimicking age-related cellular and molecular damage. Testicular aging is of significant concern due to its implications for reproductive health and hormonal balance. This research examines the protection by thymoquinone (TQ) or thymoquinone-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (NCPs) against D-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging in rat testes, focusing on biochemical, histological, and molecular changes. Aging, which is driven largely by oxidative stress, leads to significant testicular degeneration, reducing fertility. D-gal is widely used to model aging due to its ability to induce oxidative stress and mimic age-related damage. TQ, a bioactive ingredient of Nigella sativa, has earned a reputation for its anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant characteristics, but its therapeutic application is limited by its poor bioavailability. Methods: Thymoquinone was loaded into chitosan nanoparticles (NCPs) to enhance its efficacy, and this was hypothesized to improve its stability and bioavailability. Four groups of male Wistar rats participated in the study: one for the control, one for D-gal, one for D-gal + TQ, and the last one for D-gal + NCP. Results: The results exhibited that D-gal substantially increased oxidative injury, reduced testosterone levels, and caused testicular damage. Treatment with TQ and NCPs significantly reduced oxidative stress, improved antioxidant enzyme levels, and restored testosterone levels, with NCPs showing a stronger protective effect than TQ alone. A histological analysis confirmed that NCPs better preserved testicular structure and function. Additionally, the NCP treatment upregulated the expression of key genes of oxidative stress resistance, mitochondrial function, and reproductive health, including SIRT1, FOXO3a, and TERT. Conclusions: The findings suggest that NCPs offer enhanced protection against aging-related testicular damage compared with TQ alone, which is likely due to the improved bioavailability and stability provided by the nanoparticle delivery system. This research emphasizes the potential of NCPs as a more effective therapeutic strategy for mitigating oxidative stress and age-related reproductive dysfunction. Future research should further explore the mechanisms underlying these protective effects.

Two-year trajectory of functional recovery and quality of life in post-intensive care syndrome: a multicenter prospective observational study on mechanically ventilated patients with coronavirus disease-19

BackgroundPost-intensive care syndrome (PICS) affects the quality of life (QOL) of survivors of critical illness. Although PICS persists for a long time, the longitudinal changes in each component and their interrelationships over time both remain unclear. This multicenter prospective study investigated the 2-year trajectory of PICS and its components as well as factors contributing to deterioration or recovery in mechanically ventilated patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and also attempted to identify possible countermeasures.MethodsPatients who survived COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation completed questionnaires on the Barthel index, Short-Memory Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and EuroQol 5 dimensions 5-level every six months over a two-year period. Scores were weighted to account for dropouts, and the trajectory of each functional impairment was evaluated with alluvial diagrams. The prevalence of PICS and factors impairing or restoring function were examined using generalized estimating equations considering trajectories.ResultsAmong 334 patients, PICS prevalence rates in the four completed questionnaires were 72.1, 78.5, 77.6, and 82.0%, with cognitive impairment being the most common and lower QOL being noted when multiple impairments coexisted. Physical function and QOL indicated that many patients exhibited consistent trends of either recovery or deterioration. In contrast, cognitive function and mental health revealed considerable variability, with many patients showing fluctuating ratings in the later surveys. Delirium was associated with worse physical and mental health and poor QOL, while prolonged ventilation was associated with poor QOL. Living with family was associated with the recovery of all functions and QOL, while extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was associated with the recovery of cognitive function and mental health.ConclusionsCritically ill patients had PICS for a long period and followed different trajectories for each impairment component. Based on trajectories, known PICS risk factors such as prolonged ventilation and delirium were associated with impaired recovery, while ECMO and the presence of family were associated with recovery from PICS. In critically ill COVID-19 patients, delirium management and family interventions may play an important role in promoting recovery from PICS.Trial registration number: UMIN000041276, August 01, 2020.

Structured Exercise Therapy Increases Endogenous Antioxidants to Repair Muscle Strength and Health in Porcine Ischemic Myopathy Model of Peripheral Artery Disease.

Objective: The mechanisms of structured exercise therapy (SET) in peripheral artery disease (PAD) are not clear. We have developed an SET module for our large animal model of ischemic myopathy. We hypothesized that SET would increase muscle strength and walking distance in this model. The objective was to discover the SET-dependent mechanisms involved in this process. Approach: After induction of unilateral hind limb ischemia, three animals were exposed to standard environmental enrichment (sedentary or SED) and four animals underwent SET thrice weekly for 4 weeks postoperatively. Walking, hind limb pressure indices, and strength testing were performed weekly. Terminal muscle samples were used for skeletal muscle testing. Results: SET animals increased walking distance over time. SET increased muscle strength in both the ischemic and nonischemic limb. When comparing the ischemic SED hind limb muscle with that of ischemic + SET, the SET group has improved respiration and decreased oxidative stress. Markers of cell death and impaired functional regeneration were increased in SED ischemic muscles but returned toward baseline in the SET ischemic muscle. Innovation: This study uses a validated, large animal model of ischemic myopathy similar to that seen in humans with PAD. The effects of exercise on limb function, strength, and skeletal muscle health are reported in this model. Conclusion: SET increases muscle strength and regeneration by increasing endogenous antioxidants and mitochondrial respiration, resulting in favorable muscle health despite ongoing ischemia. This model may assist in preclinical testing of PAD therapies designed to improve muscle health. [Figure: see text].

Factors influencing the quality of life and social skills of children living with HIV: A case-control study.

Our objective was to understand the current status of and factors influencing the quality of life and social skills of children living with HIV and to provide a reference for improving medical service management and formulating support policies. A total of 183 children aged 7-14 years, living with HIV, and admitted to the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention from March 2022 to February 2024 were included retrospectively. We used the children's basic information and their scores from the Quality of Life Scale for Children and Adolescents (QLSCA) and Normal Development of Social Skills From Infant to Junior High School Children (S-M scale) to explore their the status of their quality of life and social skills and the factors influencing both. Four factors (life satisfaction, socio-psychological functioning, physical and mental health, and living environment) and QLSCA T-scores in the case group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < 0.01). S-M scale scores (self-help, locomotion, operation, communication, socialization, self-direction) in the case group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < 0.001). The main factors affecting the social skills of children living with HIV were side effects from antiretroviral therapy (odds ratio [OR] 7.365, p < 0.003), comorbidities (OR 12.948, p < 0.006), intellectual development (OR 6.045, p < 0.027), and awareness of HIV infection status (OR 0.261, p < 0.014). Children living with HIV have low quality of life and poor social skills. Clinicians should pay attention to side effects from antiretroviral therapy, comorbidities, children's intellectual development, and their awareness of their HIV infection status.

Temporal Relationships Between General Self-Efficacy, Social Support and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Adult Survivors of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A 9-Year Follow-Up Study.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most prevalent childhood malignancy. To improve long-term health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in adult survivors of childhood ALL, more longitudinal studies are needed to assess outcomes and risk factors throughout treatment and survivorship. The aim of this study was to examine the long-term changes in HRQOL, self-efficacy, and social support among adult survivors of childhood ALL and to explore the temporal relationship between HRQOL, self-efficacy, and social support. The study includes 148 adult childhood ALL survivors who responded to a questionnaire assessing HRQOL (SF36), self-efficacy (General Self-Efficacy Scale, GSE), and quantitative and qualitative social support (AVSI and AVAT in SS13) in 2012 and 2021. Changes in the HRQOL, GSE, and social support were calculated using paired t-tests. Bayesian path models were specified, and separate models were estimated for each relationship between GSE and AVSI, and AVAT and HRQOL. Cross-sectional associations, autoregressive effects within constructs over time, and cross-lagged effects between two variables over time were specified within each model. The mean of six of the eight HRQOL dimensions, as well as quantitative and qualitative social support, deteriorated during the 9-year follow-up. Self-efficacy was unchanged. Temporal positive relationships were found between baseline GSE and the HRQOL dimension of social functioning, as well as between social support and the HRQOL dimensions of physical functioning, vitality, and mental health at follow-up. The findings highlight the importance of self-efficacy and social support as potential buffering factors for HRQOL in adult survivors of childhood ALL over time.

Effectiveness of Oral Health Rehabilitation Under General Anaesthesia on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - A Prospective Study.

Children with intellectual and developmental disabilities may have compromised oral health and require oral health rehabilitation under general anaesthesia. The present study aimed to evaluate the changes observed in the Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP-14) and Family Impact scores (FIS-12) of children with severe behavioural disabilities and medically compromised conditions after oral health rehabilitation (OHR) under general anaesthesia (GA). Children with severe behavioural disabilities and medically compromised conditions were recruited, and OHR was done under GA. Teeth with fair prognosis were functionally restored, and teeth with poor prognosis were extracted after parents'/caregivers' informed consent. Pre-operative and post-operative COHIP-14 and FIS-12 questionnaires were filled out by the parents/caregivers. The pre-operative and post-operative values were compared with those of the Student t-test. All responses for the COHIP-14 and FIS -14 had shown significant (P ≤ 0.001) change after OHR under GA. The oral and functional health of children with severe behavioural disabilities was improved after OHR under general anaesthesia. The family impact score was also improved in terms of activity and emotions; further financial concerns of the family were also reduced after OHR under GA.

A review on lipid inclusion in preterm formula: Characteristics, nutritional support, challenges, and future perspectives.

The lack of nutrient accumulation during the last trimester and the physiological immaturity at birth make nutrition for preterm infants a significant challenge. Lipids are essential for preterm infant growth, neurodevelopment, immune function, and intestinal health. However, the inclusion of novel lipids in preterm formulas has rarely been discussed. This study discusses specific lipid recommendations for preterm infants according to authoritative legislation based on their physiological characteristics. The gaps in lipid composition, such as fatty acids, triacylglycerols, and complex lipids, between preterm formulas and human milk have been summarized. The focus of this study is mainly on the vital roles of lipids in nutritional support, including long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, structural lipids, milk fat global membrane ingredients, and other minor components. These lipids have potential applications in preterm formulas for improving lipid absorption, regulating lipid metabolism, and protecting against intestinal inflammation. The lipidome and microbiome can be used to provide adequately powered evidence of the effects of lipids. This study proposes nutritional strategies for preterm infants and suggests approaches to enhance their lipid quality in preterm formula.

Short-term effect of mirabegron on female sexual function in women with overactive bladder.

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common syndrome that can negatively affect patients' daily activities, sleep patterns, mental health, sexual function, and general health. In addition to reducing the frequency of attacks, treatment of OAB can be expected to improve the psychological and sexual health of patients. To evaluate the effects of mirabegron used in the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) on female sexual function (FSF). This retrospective study includes 48 sexually active women who were diagnosed with overactive bladder and treated with a daily oral dose of 50 mg mirabegron between November 2021 and March 2022. The evaluation of FSF was conducted using female sexual function index (FSFI) along with urinary parameters before the start of the treatment and at the 6th week of the treatment. In the study, out of 48 participants, 40 (83.3%) were identified with the dry type and 8 (16.7%) with the wet type OAB. The median age when diagnosed was 43.5 years. Although the decrease in the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB-V8) score did not reach statistical significance in the entire patient group after treatment (p = 0.058), a statistically significant decrease in the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) score was detected in the wet type OAB group (p < 0.001). During the assessment of sexual function, there was a statistically significant increase in the FSFI score, from 21.4 to 23.05, by the 6th week of treatment (p = 0.017). Specifically, the scores for desire, lubrication, and satisfaction showed a statistically significant post-treatment improvement (p < 0.001, p = 0.049, and p = 0.035, respectively). The study indicates that a 6-week regimen of a daily 50 mg mirabegron dose enhanced sexual function in women. This beneficial impact of mirabegron on sexual health should be taken into account when selecting a treatment for OAB.

Effects of water acidifiers on the growth performance, intestinal function and gut microflora in broilers

ABSTRACT 1. This study evaluated the effect of acidified drinking water on the gastrointestinal function and intestinal health of broilers. 2. A total of 630 one-day-old male broilers (Arbor Acre) were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: drinking water treatment (CON), drinking water + 0.5 ml Selko pH®/L (Selko pH), or + 0.85 ml Forticoat®/L (Forticoat) treated groups. Performance data, gut and digesta samples were collected from the broilers at the age of 21 and 42 d. 3. The results showed that acidifying drinking water had no significant effect on body weight or average daily gain (ADG). However, addition of Forticoat significantly increased (p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) throughout the experimental period and significantly increased (p < 0.05) pepsin activity on d 21. The Selko pH supplemented drinking water significantly increased (p < 0.05) the relative length of the duodenum and jejunum on d 21. The relative length of the jejunum and caecum on d 42 compared to birds receiving CON. The addition of the Forticoat to drinking water significantly increased (p < 0.05) the relative length of the jejunum and caecum on d 42 than for samples from birds in the CON group. In the caecal chyme, abundance of Blautia, Bifidobasterium, Faecalibacterium, Limosilactobacillus and Akkermania spp. on d 21 were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the caecum of birds receiving Selko pH than those in CON group and the number of Escherichia Shigella in Selko pH and Forticoat group were significantly lower (p < 0.05). 4. Overall, adding Seiko pH and Forticoat to drinking water improved pepsin activity, reduced the number of caecal pathogens, increased the number of beneficial bacteria and improved intestinal health in broilers.

Exploring sexual and romantic functioning as early risk factors of schizophrenia: a narrative review.

Patients with schizophrenia frequently encounter challenges related to sexuality and intimacy; however, the underlying causes of these difficulties remain unknown and unexplored. This narrative review aims to explore how the biological/hormonal and psychological/behavioral developmental trajectories in schizophrenia patients deviate from the normal course and to examine their connection to difficulties in sexual and romantic functioning. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, with key terms related to schizophrenia and sexual development without restriction on publication year. Articles discussing behavioral, sexual, or psychological/behavioral development before the onset of schizophrenia were included. Articles were divided into biological/hormonal and psychological/behavioral precursor categories. Additional searches were conducted to explore the broader sociocognitive context of schizophrenia, such as deficits in empathy, emotional processing, and theory of mind. The review highlights deviations in both biological/hormonal and psychological/behavioral development in schizophrenia that contribute to difficulties in romantic and sexual relationships. This narrative review addresses the extent to which biological, psychological, and social factors in schizophrenia may be closely intertwined. Abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axes have been documented in individuals with schizophrenia, potentially impairing sociosexual competencies and leading to behavioral challenges in forming sexual relationships. Deficits in theory of mind, emotional processing, and empathy may further hinder the ability to form and sustain intimate relationships, amplifying the social difficulties associated with schizophrenia. Additionally, early life traumas, especially sexual abuse, can contribute to sexual difficulties and worsen the disorder. Understanding the deviations from the normal developmental course in schizophrenia patients may offer valuable insights for potential intervention strategies and remediation approaches and contribute to improvements in sexual/romantic functioning and overall sexual health in schizophrenia patients. This review provides an overview of the developmental precursors of schizophrenia-related sexual/romantic difficulties. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these difficulties, particularly in determining the emotional and motivational salience of sexual stimuli and the capacity to engage in and maintain communication of sexual interest. The reader should bear in mind that narrative reviews lack systematic methods for selecting and evaluating studies, which can lead to author bias in choosing or interpreting sources. The narrative review identified deviations in the biological/hormonal and psychological/behavioral developmental trajectories of schizophrenia patients, linking these abnormalities to difficulties in sexual and romantic functioning, and highlighting the need for sexological remediation strategies to improve sociosexual competencies and overall sexual health.

Worse Pain and Disability at Presentation Predicts Greater Improvement in Pain, Disability, and Mental Health in Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Degenerative Spondylolisthesis.

Retrospective Review. To assess the impact of preoperative pain and disability on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) following minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) for degenerative spondylolisthesis. Varying preoperative symptom severity in lumbar fusion patients alters perceptions of surgical success. Degenerative spondylolisthesis patients undergoing elective, primary, single-level MI-TLIF were stratified by preoperative symptom severity: Mild (VAS-B<7/ODI<50), Moderate (VAS-B≥7/ODI<50 or VAS-B<7/ODI≥50), and Severe (VAS-B≥7/ODI≥50). PROMs, Patient-reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Physical Function (PROMIS-PF), ODI, VAS-B, VAS-Leg (VAS-L), and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were compared at baseline, 6 weeks, and final follow-up (μ=16.3±8.8mo). Postoperative PROMs, magnitudes of improvement, and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) achievement rates were compared between cohorts through multivariable regression. A total of 177 patients were included. Acute postoperative pain and narcotic consumption were highest in the severe cohort ( P ≤0.003). All preoperative PROMs worsened from mild to severe cohorts ( P <0.001). All PROMs continued to be significantly different between cohorts at 6 weeks and final follow-up, with the worst scores in the Severe cohort ( P ≤0.003). At 6 weeks, all cohorts improved in ODI, VAS-B, VAS-L, and PHQ-9 (P≤0.003), with the Moderate cohort also improving in PROMIS-PF (P=0.017). All Cohorts improved across PROMs at the final follow-up ( P ≤0.044). Magnitudes of improvement in ODI, VAS-B, and PHQ-9 increased with worsening preoperative symptom severity ( P ≤0.042). The Moderate and Severe cohorts demonstrated higher MCID achievement in ODI, VAS-B, and PHQ-9 rates than the Mild cohort. Despite preoperative pain and disability severity, patients undergoing MI-TLIF for degenerative spondylolisthesis report significant improvement in physical function, pain, disability, and mental health postoperatively. Patients with increasing symptom severity continued to report worse severity postoperatively compared with those with milder symptoms preoperatively but were more likely to report larger improvements and achieve clinically meaningful improvement in disability, pain, and mental health.

Identification of immune-associated genes with altered expression in the spleen of mice enriched with probiotic Lactobacillus species using RNA-seq profiling.

Probiotics are living microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed. Here, we investigated the effects of probiotics on gene expression in the spleen of mice using RNA-sequencing analysis between negative control and probiotic groups (including 4 Lactobacillus strains: Lactobacillus fermentum, L. casei, L. plantarum, and L. brevis). Mice exposed with probiotic in 4 weeks by intragastric administration. Then, spleen tissues of the control and probiotics groups were collected on days 14 and 28 for RNA sequencing. In total, 665, 186, and 81 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly expressed on day 14 vs control, day 28 vs control groups, and probiotics day 28 vs day 14 groups, respectively. On the other hand, 12 toll-like receptor genes underwent additional validation through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), affirming the increased alignment between qRT-PCR and RNA-Seq findings. In addition, the Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes and gene ontology analyses revealed that the DEGs were predominantly enriched in defense responses to pathogens, including inflammatory bowel diseases, malaria, leukaemia virus 1, and herpes virus, as well as immune processes related to immune response and signal transduction. This study represents the first investigation into mice's gene expression in the spleen exposed to probiotics using Lactobacillus spp. isolated from a field strain in Vietnam. Our results provide valuable insights into the impacts and functions of probiotics on mammalian development, offering crucial information for the potential therapeutic use of probiotics in defending against pathogens in Vietnam. The findings from this study highlight the potential of probiotics in modulating gene expression in the spleen, which may have implications for immune function and overall health in mice.

Efficacy of Chinese Medicine on Postoperative Rehabilitation of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), a Randomized Controlled Study.

With an increasing number of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients being offered surgical treatment, postoperative rehabilitation is also being increasingly emphasized. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) holds promise for enhancing postoperative recovery, with treatment methods still in refinement. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Chinese herbal decoction and Liuzijue exercises in NSCLC patients during the rapid postoperative recovery period. A randomized, parallel-group clinical trial assigned 50 patients to receive Chinese herbal medicine and Liuzijue exercise plus symptomatic treatment, and 49 to symptomatic treatment alone. Treatment continued until postoperative complications resolved, chest tubes were removed, and no abnormal examination findings were reported. The primary outcome was Quality of Life Questionnare-Core 30 (QLQ-C30) score. Secondary outcomes included MOS item short form 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) score, rate of complications, six-minute walk test (6MWT) distance, Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) score, numerical rating scale (NRS) score, and functional activity score (FAS). Significant improvements in role (MD: 12.15, 95%CI: 2.99-21.32, P < .05) and social functioning (MD: 10.25, 95%CI: 1.72-18.78, P < .05) were observed in the intervention group vs. controls, as measured by QLQ-C30. The intervention group showed better post-treatment SF-36 scores in Role-Physical (RP), Social Function (SF), Role-Emotional (RE), and Mental Health Summary (MCS) (P < .05). The complication rate was lower in the intervention (20.00%) than the control group (44.44%) (P < .05). The intervention group also had a significant increase in FAS scores (P < .05) and covered a better 6MWT distance (P < .05). Chinese herbal decoction and Liuzijue exercises during the rapid recovery period after lung cancer surgery enhanced patients' QoL and physical endurance, and mitigated complications.Trial registration: This tial was registered with chictr.org.cn (Registration number:ChiCTR2100044776).

Protective effects of resveratrol against PM2.5-induced damage in hNSCs and its mitigation of PM2.5-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in a 3D scaffold system.

Exposure to PM2.5 is associated with neurotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction. Resveratrol, a natural polyphenol, has demonstrated antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. Still, its efficacy in mitigating PM2.5-induced damage in human neural stem cells (hNSCs) and within a 3D scaffold system remains underexplored. This study investigated the protective effects of resveratrol against PM2.5-induced damage in hNSCs and within a 3D scaffold system. Assess cell viability using MTT and LIVE/DEAD assays and measure caspase activity by fluorescence analysis. Quantify gene and protein expression of key regulatory pathways using qPCR and Western blotting. Then, mitochondrial function was analyzed by measuring ATP production, mitochondrial mass, maximal respiratory rate, COX activity, membrane potential, TEM, and immunofluorescence staining. In addition, 3D scaffolds created by the CELLINK INKREDIBLE bioprinter were used to study the effect of resveratrol on PM2.5-induced hNSCs damage. Resveratrol significantly improved cell viability and reduced caspase-3 and caspase-9 activities in PM2.5-treated hNSCs. Resveratrol treatment upregulated TrKBR, PI3K, AKT, CREB, PPARα, PPARγ, SIRT1and AMPK expression. It restored mitochondrial function by increasing ATP production, mitochondrial mass, maximal respiratory rate, COX activity, and membrane potential. Using a 3D scaffold demonstrated resveratrol's potential to maintain mitochondrial function and cellular health under PM2.5 exposure. Resveratrol can effectively reduce neurotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction caused by PM2.5 in hNSCs. Its protective effects against PM2.5-induced toxicity in hNSCs within a 3D bioprinted model highlight this study's translational potential. These findings emphasize its potential as a therapeutic agent against environmental neurotoxins and the development of neuroprotective strategies.

Epimedin C promotes mitochondrial transfer and delays thymus atrophy in 4-VCD induced mimetic-menopausal mice.

Prevention of thymus atrophy during menopause is of great significance for improving the immune function and overall health of menopausal women. Epimedin C is one of the major bioactive compounds in Herba Epimedii, a traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of menopausal syndrome in China, but the action and mechanism of Epimedin C in the treatment of menopausal thymus atrophy remains unclear. To study the effect of Epimedin C on thymus atrophy in 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (4-VCD) induced mimetic-menopausal mice and explore its mechanism from new perspectives of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) formation and mitochondrial transfer (MitoT). The effects of Epimedin C in the 4-VCD induced menopause-like phenotype in mice were observed, and the thymic output function was evaluated by the quantitative detection of T cell receptor excision circles (TRECs). The structure of the thymus was observed by H&E. The arrangement and quantity of different cell subpopulations of thymic epithelial cells (TECs) and thymocytes were detected by multiple fluorescent staining and flow cytometry. Mitochondrial morphology was observed with transmission electron microscopy. LC-MS/MS was used to analyze and identify the differential protein expression in thymus before and after Epimedin C treatment. Actin polymerization inhibitor was used to verify the possible mechanism of Epimedin C. The treadmilling-balance of actin, TNTs formation, and MitoT processes were observed by specific fluorescent probe labeling. The interaction between G-actin, Thymosin β4 (Tβ4), and Epimedin C were studied by protein cross-linking assay. Epimedin C significantly increased the thymus weight and the area of the thymus medulla, increased the grip strength and bone strength in 4-VCD induced mimetic-menopausal mice, and enhanced ovarian secretion function. It could affect the thymus output, increase CK5 and CK8 expression, maintain the reticular structure of TECs, inhibit the differentiation of thymocytes into double positive cells (CD4+CD8+) and CD4SP (CD3+TCR β+CD4+CD8-) cells. Epimedin C promoted the conversion of G-actin to F-actin and accelerated MitoT via stimulating the TNTs formation, which related with the downregulation of Tβ4 and obstruction to the formation of Tβ4-G-actin complex. Epimedin C can promote TEC activity in 4-VCD induced mimetic-menopausal mice by decreasing the expression of Tβ4, inhibiting the binding of Tβ4 to G-actin, promoting the F-actin polymerization and the TNTs-depended MitoT.

The relationship between cognitive and affective control and symptoms of depression and anxiety across the lifespan: A 3-wave longitudinal study

IntroductionThe association between cognitive functioning and mental health symptoms across the lifespan remains poorly understood. Understanding the directional associations between mental health and cognition is important as most gold-standard psychological therapies, such as cognitive-behaviour therapy, are cognitively demanding. Here, we examined the directionality of the association between cognitive and affective control with symptoms of depression and anxiety across the lifespan. Methods1002 participants (87.2 % female, age range: 11–89 years) completed self-report measures of depressive and anxiety symptoms and an affective backward digit span task thrice at 3-month intervals. Cross-lagged panel models (CLPMs) were used to model the longitudinal relationships between affective and cognitive control with depressive and anxiety symptoms. Multiple-group CLPMs were applied to test the model invariance between adolescents and adults. ResultsThe results supported a unidirectional relationship, where symptoms of depression and anxiety predicted impaired affective control across time points, over and above cognitive control. There was no evidence for affective or cognitive control capacity predicting emotional disorder symptomatology. In addition, multiple-group analysis revealed that depressive symptoms also predicted impaired cognitive control among adolescents only. There were no age-related differences in the associations between cognitive and affective control with anxiety symptoms. ConclusionsOur findings support depression and anxiety as antecedents, but not consequences, of impaired affective control, suggesting that timely management of emotional disorders, in particular for adolescents, is essential to prevent deterioration in cognitive functioning. The results further signal that practitioners should consider impaired affective control capacity in therapeutic contexts.

Association between oral health-related quality of life and physical frailty among community-dwelling older adults: A 2-year longitudinal study.

Frailty is a major health concern among older adults, and its association with oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) remains underexplored in longitudinal studies. To investigate the association between baseline OHRQoL and physical frailty incidence at a 2-year follow-up in community-dwelling older adults. Prospective longitudinal study. The study was conducted within the Tosa Longitudinal Aging Study framework in Japan. This study included 144 community-dwelling older adults (50 men and 94 women; median age, 81.0 years) with complete data who participated in the Tosa Longitudinal Aging Study in 2016 and 2018 and were not categorized as physical frailty in 2016. Baseline assessment included OHRQoL, which was evaluated using the General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI; range 12-60), with higher scores indicating better OHRQoL, oral function, and general health status. The incidence of physical frailty was defined using the revised Japanese version of the Cardiovascular Health Study criteria. The association between the GOHAI score and physical frailty was assessed using logistic regression analysis. The median baseline GOHAI score was 58. The incidence of frailty after a 2-year follow-up was 13.9 % among the participants (18.0 and 11.7 % for men and women, respectively). Each point of the GOHAI score was associated with an 11 % reduction in frailty risk over 2 years after adjusting by age, sex, number of teeth, Food Diversity Score, Geriatric Depression Scale score, eating alone, smoking, and more than five medications (adjusted odds ratio: 0.893; 95 % confidence interval: 0.810-0.984). This longitudinal study showed that a higher baseline OHRQoL, based on the GOHAI score, was linked to a lower incidence of physical frailty among community-dwelling older adults after 2 years.

Postnatal enteral plasma supplementation following birth asphyxia increases fluid retention and kidney health in newborn pigs.

Birth asphyxia can result in kidney dysfunction, disturbances in systemic electrolytes and fluid balance in newborns. Currently, there is no proven dietary approach to support asphyxiated newborns. This study investigates whether oral plasma supplementation improves kidney function and overall health in asphyxiated newborns. Cesarean-delivered near-term pigs with or without an 8 min intrauterine clamping of the umbilical cord were fed a milk replacer dissolved in water for 24 h in Experiment 1. Pigs were fed 72 h with milk replacers dissolved in either maternal plasma or water in Experiment 2. Blood, urine, and kidney tissue were collected for further analyses. Asphyxia disrupted blood electrolyte balance. And plasma feeding led to higher fluid retention for both asphyxiated and control pigs. Additionally, plasma feeding may also affect kidney development and protect kidneys from asphyxia induced impairments. Birth asphyxia in pigs led to immediate disturbance of electrolyte balance, impaired fluid retention, and kidney impairments. Plasma feeding may improve postnatal newborn hydration and may also improve the condition of kidneys following asphyxia.

The Predictors of Dietary Supplement Use Among Women With Musculoskeletal Disease: A Population-Based Complex Sample Designed Study.

Supplement use is influenced by personal factors such as sex, knowledge, health status, and sociocultural factors. Korean women with musculoskeletal disease commonly use dietary supplements for purposes such as symptom relief. This study aimed to identify the differences in demographics, health status, and functional health literacy depending on the use of dietary supplements in Korean women with musculoskeletal disease. A cross-sectional study and secondary data analysis were designed using a representative, multilevel stratified cluster sample from the 8th wave (2019) of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a national statistical survey encompassing health status, health behaviors, and food and nutrient consumption. Data on 804 women aged 20 years or older with musculoskeletal disease were included. A complex samples χ2-test was conducted to compare all variables such as demographics, health status, and functional health literacy. As results, significant differences were found between the dietary supplement user and non-user groups in terms of age (χ2 = 12.21, P = .009), type of health insurance (χ2 = 4.01, P = .049), education level (χ2 = 42.86, P < .001), and presence of diabetes mellitus (χ2 = 9.16, P = .005). Functional health literacy was higher in the user group than in the non-user group (χ² = 5.48, P = .050). We found that younger individuals with health insurance, higher educational levels, and functional health literacy, and who do not have diabetes are likely to use dietary supplements. Healthcare providers should continue to monitor the use of dietary supplements among women with musculoskeletal diseases to ensure their safe and effective use.