Search Results (1,537)

Background/Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multifactorial condition characterized by abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, hypertension, and chronic inflammation. As its global prevalence rises, there is increasing interest in natural, multi-targeted approaches to manage MetS. Curcuma longa Linn. (turmeric), especially its active compound curcumin, has shown therapeutic promise in preclinical studies. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of Curcuma longa and its derivatives on MetS-related outcomes in rodent models. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across six databases (PubMed, Scopus, AMED, LILACS, MDPI, and Google Scholar), yielding 47 eligible in vivo studies. Data were extracted on key metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress markers and analyzed using random-effects models. Results were presented as mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Meta-analysis showed that curcumin significantly reduced body weight (rats: MD = −42.10; mice: MD = −2.91), blood glucose (rats: MD = −55.59; mice: MD = −28.69), triglycerides (rats: MD = −70.17; mice: MD = −24.57), total cholesterol (rats: MD = −35.77; mice: MD = −52.61), and LDL cholesterol (rats: MD = −69.34; mice: MD = −42.93). HDL cholesterol increased significantly in rats but not in mice. Inflammatory cytokines were markedly reduced, while oxidative stress improved via decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) and elevated superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels. Heterogeneity was moderate to high, primarily due to variations in curcumin dosage (ranging from 10 to 500 mg/kg) and treatment duration (2 to 16 weeks) across studies. Conclusions: This preclinical evidence supports Curcuma longa as a promising functional food component for preventing and managing MetS. Its multi-faceted effects warrant further clinical studies to validate its translational potential. Full article

The impact of cultural identity on music performance anxiety (MPA) is under-researched. This retrospective case study explores the treatment of a professional musician in her 30s who presented with MPA associated with performing music related to her estranged father’s cultural background. The case formulation identified attachment ruptures and negative cognitions associated with her mixed cultural heritage that contributed to an experience of imposterism—referred to in lay literature as ‘racial imposter syndrome’ (RIS). It was hypothesized that RIS served to perpetuate her MPA. An attachment-based approach and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework was adopted, drawing on evidence-based treatment for MPA and mixed heritage individuals. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), Outcome Rating Scale (ORS) and Session Rating Scale (SRS) were used as outcome measures. These measures fluctuated throughout the therapy. While improvements were observed in depression scores midway through treatment, elevated stress and depression scores at the conclusion of treatment were understood to reflect situational factors related to financial and housing precarity. Nonetheless, at the conclusion of treatment, the client showed improvement in managing MPA, evidenced by her progress in recording an album and reengagement with public performances. This case study adds to the limited research on treating MPA in racially minoritized and mixed-race individuals, Further research is required across larger and more diverse samples to better understand the relationship between MPA and RIS and to develop effective interventions. Full article

The purpose of the present research is to analyse the negative outcomes associated with the excessive Instagram dependency of those users that access the application through their smartphones. An empirical study was conducted through online interviews using structured questionnaires, resulting in 342 valid responses, with the target population being young users over 18 years old who access Instagram daily. Research shows that dependency on Instagram is primarily driven by individuals’ need for orientation and understanding, with entertainment being a secondary motivation. The results indicate that dependency on the social network is positively associated with excessive use, addiction, and Instastress. Furthermore, excessive use contributes to personal and social problems and increases both stress levels and mindfulness related to the platform. In turn, this excessive use intensifies addiction, which functions as a mediating variable between overuse and Instastress, mindfulness, and emotional exhaustion. This study offers valuable insights for academics, mental health professionals, and marketers by emphasizing the importance of fostering healthier digital habits and developing targeted interventions. Full article

Insulin resistance (IR), a core component in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), is increasingly recognized for its role in cardiovascular and pulmonary complications. This review explores the relationship between IR, right ventricular dysfunction (RVD), and decreased lung volume in patients with T2DM. Emerging evidence suggests that IR contributes to early structural and functional alterations in the right ventricle, independent of overt cardiovascular disease. The mechanisms involved include oxidative stress, inflammation, dyslipidemia, and obesity—factors commonly found in metabolic syndrome and T2DM. These pathophysiological changes compromise right ventricular contractility, leading to reduced pulmonary perfusion and respiratory capacity. RVD has been associated with chronic lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea, all of which are prevalent in the diabetic population. As RVD progresses, it can result in impaired gas exchange, interstitial pulmonary edema, and exercise intolerance—highlighting the importance of early recognition and management. Therapeutic strategies should aim to improve insulin sensitivity and cardiac function through lifestyle interventions, pharmacological agents such as SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1/GIP analogs, and routine cardiac monitoring. These approaches may help slow the progression of RVD and its respiratory consequences. Considering the global burden of diabetes and obesity, and the growing incidence of related complications, further research is warranted to clarify the mechanisms linking IR, RVD, and respiratory dysfunction. Understanding this triad will be crucial for developing targeted interventions that improve outcomes and quality of life in affected patients. Full article

Students, particularly those in the medical field, are exposed to various stressors that can affect their health-related behaviors, including smoking habits, with implications for oral health and quality of life. Background and Objectives: to analyze the relationship between smoking, oral health, perceived stress level, and self-assessed quality of life in a sample of dental students. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study included 338 students, who completed validated questionnaires and were clinically examined. Lifestyle was assessed using a smoking behavior questionnaire, stress levels were measured with the Student Stress Inventory (SSI), and quality of life was evaluated using the EQ-5D-5L instrument. The DMFT index was calculated to determine oral health status. Results: Among the 338 participating students, 53.8% were smokers. The lifestyle analysis revealed slightly higher average scores among non-smokers across all domains—social (3.26 vs. 3.09), attitudinal (2.75 vs. 2.97), and behavioral (3.82 vs. 3.49), but without statistically significant differences (p > 0.25). The mean DMFT score was 12.48, with no significant differences between smokers and non-smokers (p = 0.554). The SSI total score averaged 83.15, indicating a moderate level of perceived stress, again with no statistically significant differences between the groups (p > 0.05). However, slightly higher average stress scores among smokers may suggest the use of smoking as a coping mechanism. In contrast, quality of life as measured by EQ-5D-5L showed significantly worse outcomes for smokers across all five dimensions, including mobility (78.6% vs. 95.5%, p = 0.000) and self-care (93.4% vs. 100%, p = 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression identified smoking (OR = 1.935; p = 0.047) and moderate stress levels (OR = 0.258; p < 0.001) as independent predictors of oral health status. Conclusions: The results obtained suggest that smoking may function as a stress management strategy among students, supporting the relevance of integrating specific psychobehavioral interventions that address stress reduction and oral health promotion among student populations. Full article

Background: Oxidative stress is a critical factor contributing to male infertility, impairing spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and disrupting normal spermatogenesis. This study aimed to isolate and characterize human SSCs and to investigate oxidative stress-related gene expression, protein interaction networks, and developmental trajectories involved in SSC function. Methods: SSCs were enriched from human orchiectomy samples using CD49f-based magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) and laminin-binding matrix selection. Enriched cultures were assessed through morphological criteria and immunocytochemistry using VASA and SSEA4. Transcriptomic profiling was performed using microarray and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to identify oxidative stress-related genes. Bioinformatic analyses included STRING-based protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks, FunRich enrichment, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and predictive modeling using machine learning algorithms. Results: The enriched SSC populations displayed characteristic morphology, positive germline marker expression, and minimal fibroblast contamination. Microarray analysis revealed six significantly upregulated oxidative stress-related genes in SSCs—including CYB5R3 and NDUFA10—and three downregulated genes, such as TXN and SQLE, compared to fibroblasts. PPI and functional enrichment analyses highlighted tightly clustered gene networks involved in mitochondrial function, redox balance, and spermatogenesis. scRNA-seq data further confirmed stage-specific expression of antioxidant genes during spermatogenic differentiation, particularly in late germ cell stages. Among the machine learning models tested, logistic regression demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy for antioxidant gene expression, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.741. Protein oxidation was implicated as a major mechanism of oxidative damage, affecting sperm motility, metabolism, and acrosome integrity. Conclusion: This study identifies key oxidative stress-related genes and pathways in human SSCs that may regulate spermatogenesis and impact sperm function. These findings offer potential targets for future functional validation and therapeutic interventions, including antioxidant-based strategies to improve male fertility outcomes. Full article

Endometriosis significantly impacts fertility through complex mechanisms. These include chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and anatomical distortion. These mechanisms impair oocyte quality, embryo development, and implantation. While in vivo challenges persist, in vitro fertilization (IVF) offers a controlled environment to overcome some barriers. A systematic review of evidence is presented for (1) endometriosis-associated oocyte dysfunction, (2) conflicting IVF outcomes, and (3) innovative strategies. Significant medical advancements have been made. However, gaps remain in personalized prognosis and targeted therapies. Emerging tools, specifically AI-driven embryo selection, single-cell omics, and immunomodulation, are promising for improving outcomes. Hence, a patient-centered approach, balancing science with personalized care, is essential to navigate endometriosis-related infertility. Full article

Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) is highly prevalent in modern swine production, and many affected piglets survive past weaning and are raised for commercial pork production. This review summarizes the current understanding of the physiological challenges of IUGR piglets from a molecular perspective and evaluates recent advances in nutritional strategies aimed at mitigating their negative outcomes. Molecular approaches, including omics technologies and targeted analyses, have been employed to investigate the physiological characteristics of IUGR piglets. These approaches consistently show that IUGR piglets exhibit systemic dysfunction, including compromised gut health, increased inflammation and oxidative stress, and impaired function of multiple organs such as the intestine, liver, kidney, and immune-related tissues. Moreover, IUGR piglets often display poor muscle development and meat quality. The multifactorial nature of these issues suggests that targeting a single physiological parameter may be insufficient, and comprehensive interventions are needed to address the widespread effects of IUGR. Promising nutritional strategies such as supplementation with polyphenol-rich plant extracts, amino acids, and probiotics have demonstrated potential in improving gut integrity, beneficially modulating microbiota, and enhancing the overall health and performance of IUGR piglets. By supporting the systemic recovery of IUGR piglets, nutritional interventions could improve overall productivity in swine production systems. Full article

Background/Objectives: This scoping review critically evaluated existing literature and summarized the impact of occupational, physiological, and psychological stressors on adrenal and neuroendocrine responses, body composition, and physical performance amongst women in tactical occupations. Methods: Boolean searches identified potentially qualifying reports involving: (1) adult women (≥19 y) currently employed or completing their training for a tactical profession; (2) ≥1 marker of “stress”; and (3) ≥1 adrenal, neuroendocrine, body composition, or fitness/performance outcome. Quantitative data (e.g., sample characteristics, outcomes of interest) were extracted and summarized. The completeness of reporting for each study was documented using existing checklists and quantified as: low (<50%), moderate (50–79%), or high (≥80%). Results: 40 studies (k) of moderate reporting quality (~64%) were included in the final sample (3693 women); 11 studies (28%) focused on women exclusively, and 16 studies identified sex differences in ≥1 outcome. Most studies involved military trainee populations (80%, k = 32). Occupation-related stress tended to negatively impact adrenal, neuroendocrine, body composition, and performance outcomes. Conclusions: This review highlights progress in assessing occupational performance in female tactical personnel exposed to diverse stressors; however, our understanding remains incomplete due to methodological and conceptual limitations in the literature. Holistic research strategies are needed to capture the complexity of performance readiness in women, integrating how stress affects key tactical performance aspects such as muscle physiology, reproductive health, and energy and nutrient balance in realistic operational contexts. Integrating such data is vital for informing policy, improving readiness, and enhancing the health and career longevity of female tactical personnel. Full article

Primary aldosteronism (PA), the most common cause of secondary hypertension, is increasingly recognized as an independent driver of adverse cardiac remodeling, mediated through mechanisms beyond elevated blood pressure alone. Chronic aldosterone excess leads to myocardial fibrosis, left ventricular hypertrophy, and diastolic dysfunction via mineralocorticoid receptor activation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix dysregulation. These changes culminate in a distinct cardiomyopathy phenotype, often underrecognized in early stages. Multimodality cardiac imaging, led primarily by conventional and speckle-tracking echocardiography, and complemented by exploratory cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) techniques such as T1 mapping and late gadolinium enhancement, enables non-invasive assessment of structural, functional, and tissue-level changes in aldosterone-mediated myocardial damage. While numerous studies have established the diagnostic and prognostic relevance of imaging in PA, several gaps remain. Specifically, the relative sensitivity of different modalities in detecting subclinical myocardial changes, the long-term prognostic significance of imaging biomarkers, and the differential impact of adrenalectomy versus medical therapy on cardiac reverse remodeling require further clarification. Moreover, the lack of standardized imaging-based criteria for defining and monitoring PA-related cardiomyopathy hinders widespread clinical implementation. This narrative review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the pathophysiological mechanisms of aldosterone-induced cardiac remodeling, delineate the strengths and limitations of existing imaging modalities, and critically evaluate the comparative effects of surgical and pharmacologic interventions. Emphasis is placed on early detection strategies, identification of imaging biomarkers with prognostic utility, and integration of multimodal imaging into clinical decision-making pathways. By outlining current evidence and highlighting key unmet needs, this review provides a framework for future research aimed at advancing personalized care and improving cardiovascular outcomes in patients with PA. Full article

Gaultherin [methyl salicylate 2-O-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside] is a natural salicylate found in some plant species belonging primarily to the Ericaceae and Rosaceae families. Biological studies conducted since the beginning of the 21st century have suggested the potential use of gaultherin in treating various diseases related to inflammation and oxidative stress, including rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, neuralgia, and muscular pain. The accumulated results indicated a targeted range of biological effects, particularly anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anti-rheumatic properties associated with reduced adverse outcomes. The molecular mechanisms involve the influence on several signalling pathways, including NF-κB, MAPK, and potentially AMPK, as well as the inhibition of critical pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2. This inhibition is achieved without affecting the COX-1 isoform, thereby preventing side effects such as bleeding ulcers or intracranial haemorrhage. This overview summarises the current knowledge about pharmacokinetics, molecular mechanisms, pharmacology, and biocompatibility of gaultherin. Additionally, four methods for isolating gaultherin from plant material and its distribution within the plant kingdom were the focal points of review and discussion. The paper also describes significant differences between synthetic aspirin and natural gaultherin in their biological potential and side effects, resulting from their different mechanisms of action. As a prodrug of salicylic acid, gaultherin releases salicylic acid gradually through enzymatic hydrolysis in the gastrointestinal tract. This controlled release minimises direct gastric irritation and accounts for its superior gastrointestinal safety profile compared to aspirin. Unlike aspirin, which irreversibly inhibits COX-1 and can lead to serious side effects with chronic use, gaultherin selectively inhibits COX-2 while sparing COX-1. These properties position gaultherin as a compelling natural alternative for patients requiring long-term anti-inflammatory therapy with reduced risk of gastrointestinal or bleeding complications. Full article

The worldwide agriculture industry is facing increasing problems due to rapid population increase and increasingly unfavorable weather patterns. In order to reach the projected food production targets, which are essential for guaranteeing global food security, innovative and sustainable agricultural methods must be adopted. Conventional approaches, including traditional breeding procedures, often cannot handle the complex and simultaneous effects of biotic pressures such as pest infestations, disease attacks, and nutritional imbalances, as well as abiotic stresses including heat, salt, drought, and heavy metal toxicity. Applying phytohormonal approaches, particularly those involving hormonal crosstalk, presents a viable way to increase crop resilience in this context. Abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellins (GAs), auxin, cytokinins, salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid (JA), ethylene, and GA are among the plant hormones that control plant stress responses. In order to precisely respond to a range of environmental stimuli, these hormones allow plants to control gene expression, signal transduction, and physiological adaptation through intricate networks of antagonistic and constructive interactions. This review focuses on how the principal hormonal signaling pathways (in particular, ABA-ET, ABA-JA, JA-SA, and ABA-auxin) intricately interact and how they affect the plant stress response. For example, ABA-driven drought tolerance controls immunological responses and stomatal behavior through antagonistic interactions with ET and SA, while using SnRK2 kinases to activate genes that react to stress. Similarly, the transcription factor MYC2 is an essential node in ABA–JA crosstalk and mediates the integration of defense and drought signals. Plants’ complex hormonal crosstalk networks are an example of a precisely calibrated regulatory system that strikes a balance between growth and abiotic stress adaptation. ABA, JA, SA, ethylene, auxin, cytokinin, GA, and BR are examples of central nodes that interact dynamically and context-specifically to modify signal transduction, rewire gene expression, and change physiological outcomes. To engineer stress-resilient crops in the face of shifting environmental challenges, a systems-level view of these pathways is provided by a combination of enrichment analyses and STRING-based interaction mapping. These hormonal interactions are directly related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 2 (Zero Hunger), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 13 (Climate Action). This review emphasizes the potential of biotechnologies to use hormone signaling to improve agricultural performance and sustainability by uncovering the molecular foundations of hormonal crosstalk. Increasing our understanding of these pathways presents a strategic opportunity to increase crop resilience, reduce environmental degradation, and secure food systems in the face of increasing climate unpredictability. Full article

Radiation therapy serves as a fundamental treatment for primary and metastatic brain tumors, whether used alone or combined with surgery and chemotherapy. Despite its oncological efficacy, this treatment paradigm frequently induces radiation-induced brain injury (RBI), a progressive neuropathological condition characterized by structural and functional damage to healthy cerebral parenchyma. Patients with RBI frequently develop affective disorders, particularly major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, which profoundly impair psychosocial functioning and quality of life. The pathophysiology involves complex mechanisms such as neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, blood–brain barrier disruption, and white matter damage. Current management strategies include antidepressants, corticosteroids, and neuroprotective agents, while emerging therapies targeting neuroinflammation and neural repair show promise. This review comprehensively examines the pathogenesis of RBI-related affective disorders and evaluates both conventional and novel treatment approaches. By synthesizing current evidence, we aim to provide insights for developing more effective interventions to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Spontaneous renal hematoma, also known as Wunderlich syndrome (WS), is a rare disease characterized by the acute onset of spontaneous renal hemorrhage into the subcapsular, perirenal, and/or pararenal spaces without a history of prior trauma. WS can be a life-threatening condition due to hemorrhagic shock; consequently, prompt diagnosis and a therapeutic approach are essential for favorable outcomes. Treatment ranges from conservative management to surgical intervention. The most common etiologies are neoplasms and vascular diseases, but WS can also be observed in patients undergoing hemodialysis. In patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), especially those on hemodialysis, acquired cystic kidney disease and renal cell carcinoma are among the primary causes of WS. Although less common, WS can develop in dialysis patients even in the absence of traditional (primary) risk factors. In general, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a paradoxical hemostatic profile, likely explaining their higher tendency to bleed, so WS can occur without existing predisposing factors. The multifactorial pathogenesis in these patients includes functional platelet abnormalities, intimal arterial fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with ESRD. The use of hemodialysis-related antithrombotic medications could serve as another contributing factor increasing the risk of bleeding. Case Presentation: We present a case report of a 62-year-old male on chronic dialysis who developed sudden right-sided lumbar pain and hematuria during dialysis without evidence of prior trauma. Imaging revealed a large subcapsular hematoma of the right kidney. Further investigations did not reveal additional risk factors in this instance; however, his routinely used hemodialysis-related antithrombotic medications were potentially a contributing factor. Despite conservative treatment, his condition worsened, and the hematoma enlarged, requiring emergency nephrectomy. Postoperatively, his condition gradually improved. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of considering WS in hemodialysis patients, even without the presence of traditional risk factors, as well as including WS in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain. Full article

Abiotic stress can reprogram the gametophytic pathway; the mechanisms by which floral bud pre-treatment influences microspore embryogenesis initiation remain unclear. In this study, we use bisulfite sequencing, sRNA-seq, and RNA-seq to analyze the dynamic changes in rice microspores under different cold treatment durations. Our results showed that a 10-day cold treatment is essential for CXJ microspore embryogenesis initiation. DNA methylation levels showed a slight change at CG, CHG, and CHH sites under cold treatment. The number of both hyper- and hypomethylated DMRs increased over cold treatment, with more hypermethylated DMRs at 5 and 10 dpt. Hypermethylated DMRs were more frequently in the TSS region compared to hypomethylated DMRs. The proportion of 24 nt sRNAs increased upon cold stress, with more downregulated than upregulated sRNAs at 10 dpt. The number of DMR target DEGs increased from 5 to 10 dpt. Promoter hypomethylation at the CHH site was more frequently associated with DEGs. These outcomes suggested that the RdDM pathway participates in the initiation of rice ME. GO analysis indicated that DMR target DEGs at 10 dpt were enriched in responses to chemical stimuli, biological processes, and stress responses. An auxin-related gene, OsHOX28, was further identified. Its upregulation, potentially mediated by the RdDM pathway, may play a crucial role in the initiation of rice ME. This study provides more information on epigenetic mechanisms during rice ME. Full article