Magnesium (Stress)

Background and Objectives: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis with a complex pathophysiology that continues to challenge effective long-term disease management. Rosacea is characterized by immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, neurovascular dysfunction, and impaired epidermal barrier integrity, while current therapeutic options remain limited. Hippophae rhamnoides (sea buckthorn) is a phytochemically rich medicinal plant with reported anti-inflammatory and dermo-reparative properties. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines using the PubMed database. Studies published from 2020 onward evaluating sea buckthorn extracts, oils, or isolate bioactive compounds in the in vitro, in vivo, and limited clinical contexts were included, with emphasis on rosacea relevant mechanisms. Results: Twenty-six studies show that sea buckthorn compounds modulate inflammation, oxidative stress, vascular and immune responses, and barrier function in preclinical models. They consistently reduce pro-inflammatory mediators, improve barrier integrity, and attenuate immune or vascular activation, suggesting potential benefits for inflammatory skin disorders such as rosacea. Conclusions: Hippophae rhamnoides shows promising anti-inflammatory and skin-repairing effects that may benefit patients with rosacea. However, most evidence comes from preclinical studies, and clinical data specifically for rosacea are limited. Well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness in treating this condition.

Background: Obesity and periodontitis are linked through inflammatory and metabolic pathways, and the oral microbiota may mediate this interaction. Age-related changes in immunity, salivary function, and cumulative exposure may modify obesity-associated periodontal dysbiosis. Objective: We sought to synthesize the potential for age-related differences in the oral microbiota of adult obese patients with periodontitis and assess the strength of current literature in supporting age-specific interpretations. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase identified 1088 records. After screening and full-text assessment, 50 studies that met the criteria for focused qualitative synthesis remained. Within that review corpus, 10 representative adult human studies provided the most direct evidence linking obesity or overweight, periodontal phenotype, oral microbiota, and age-relevant interpretation. Risk of bias was appraised with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results: Direct head-to-head microbiome comparisons between younger and older obese adults with periodontitis are rare. Direct evidence links obesity to greater periodontal inflammatory burden, enrichment of classical periopathogens and bridging taxa, and shifts in community structure. Contextual aging studies have suggested that older adults may more often harbor lower-diversity, persistence-oriented communities enriched in stress-tolerant, proteolytic, or opportunistic taxa, whereas younger obese adults more often show inflammation-amplifying consortia enriched in classical periopathogens and bridging taxa. However, these patterns remain largely hypothesis-generating because the evidence base is heterogeneous and predominantly cross-sectional. Conclusions: Age likely modifies the obesity-periodontitis-microbiota axis, but direct comparative evidence on adults remains limited. The current literature supports cautious age-aware interpretation within a systematic review framework rather than definitive age-specific microbial signatures or treatment algorithms.

Acute coronary syndrome patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention remain at high risk for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE: cardiovascular mortality, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and stroke). Inflammatory-oxidative stress biomarkers are potential prognostic tools; however, the influence of sampling timing-pre-procedural versus post-procedural-remains unclear. This meta-analysis evaluated six biomarkers: sST2, GDF-15, OPG, sLOX-1, H-FABP, and Galectin-3. Pooled Hazard Ratios (HRs) for time-to-event outcomes and Standardized Mean Differences (SMDs) between event and non-event groups were synthesized using random-effects models involving 40 studies (18,933 patients). Elevated pre-procedural levels of sST2 (HR = 3.32, p < 0.0001), GDF-15 (HR = 3.00, p < 0.0001), sLOX-1 (HR = 2.61, p = 0.0023), and OPG (HR = 1.79, p = 0.0206) significantly predicted MACE. Notably, pre-PCI sST2 strongly predicted heart failure hospitalization (HR = 6.30, p < 0.0001). Additionally, pre-PCI H-FABP demonstrated a moderate significant effect on adverse outcomes (SMD = 0.67, p < 0.0001). While pre-PCI Galectin-3 was not significant, its post-procedural levels showed a large significant effect (SMD = 1.15, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers, particularly sST2 and GDF-15, demonstrate consistent associations with adverse outcomes in ACS patients undergoing PCI, offering more reliable baseline risk stratification than post-procedural measurements.

INTRODUCTION: Psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) are subthreshold psychotic phenomena that occur along the psychosis continuum and are frequently accompanied by distress. However, the factors underlying distress in individuals reporting PLEs-particularly within non-clinical populations-remain insufficiently understood. This systematic review aims to synthesise the evidence on factors directly or indirectly associated with distress in PLEs among non-clinical samples. METHODS: A systematic search of Medline, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane (January 2000-March 2025) using the terms psychotic-like experiences AND (distress OR resilience OR burden OR coping OR adaptive behaviour) identified 762 studies, of which 111 met inclusion criteria and were included in a narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Distress related to PLEs can be differentiated into direct PLE-related distress and indirect psychological distress. Factors associated with distress clustered into three domains: (i) Symptomatology-greater frequency, intensity, persistence and specific subtypes predict higher distress, as do comorbid depression, anxiety and suicidality. (ii) Psychological factors-maladaptive metacognitive biases, poor emotion regulation and avoidant or emotion-focused coping contribute to distress, whereas self-compassion and problem-focused coping may be protective. (iii) Environmental and contextual factors-traumatic life events, discrimination, daily stressors and substance use amplify distress, often by interacting with internal vulnerabilities and emotion regulation capacities. CONCLUSION: Distress in PLEs arises from the interaction between symptom features, internal psychological vulnerabilities and external environmental factors. Consistent with emotion regulation models, distress reflects disruptions in adaptive appraisal and coping processes that heighten emotional reactivity. Conceptualizing distress as a transdiagnostic vulnerability underscores its relevance for early identification and preventive interventions. Future research should harmonise definitions of distress, examine longitudinal pathways and evaluate resilience-building approaches to mitigate risk and improve mental he

INTRODUCTION: Long-distance relationships (LDRs) reduce opportunities for physical intimacy, often prompting individuals to seek alternative sexual activities such as masturbation. Although common, its influence on sexual satisfaction, sexual health, psychological well-being, and relational stability in LDRs remains understudied. Moreover, cultural and population differences shape diverse meanings and perspectives on masturbation. OBJECTIVES: We employed a systematic review approach to explore the role of masturbation within long-distance relationships. Specifically, this review aims to examine how masturbation is associated with sexual, relational, and psychological outcomes and how these perspectives vary across cultural contexts. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, compiling both quantitative and qualitative studies on masturbation as an alternative sexual activity in LDRs as well as its implications for sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, and psychological well-being. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were eligible for further analysis in which men reported higher frequencies of masturbation compared to women, with significant increases observed in the context of long-distance relationships and during COVID-19 quarantine periods. Men were mainly motivated by biological release, orgasm, and stress reduction, often with pornography, whereas women reported broader motives such as relaxation, better sleep, stress relief, and emotional closeness. The effects on sexual satisfaction were mixed: masturbation was reported to be associated with greater body awareness, self-esteem, and relational harmony, yet excessive frequency was linked to lower satisfaction and arousal. Mutual, technology-mediated practices helped maintain intimacy, while excessive solitary use undermined relationship quality. From a sexual health perspective, moderate masturbation may be associated with indirect benefits through improved body awareness, whereas frequent use was linked to poorer experiences. Psychologically, it served as a coping strategy for sleep and stress, but excessive engagement increased anxiety and reduced emotional well-being. CO

The B-box (BBX) zinc finger transcription factor family functions as a central regulatory hub in plants, responsible for perceiving and integrating environmental signals to coordinate growth, development, and stress adaptation. Typically, members of this family typically contain one or two conserved B-box domains, with certain members also containing CCT domains or VP motifs, these multi-domain architectures underlie the functional diversity of BBX proteins. This review summarizes the key roles of BBX proteins across the plant life cycle-including growth regulation, secondary metabolism, photomorphogenesis, and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. Given the distinct regulatory capacity of BBX proteins in harmonizing environmental signals with crucial agronomic traits in horticultural crops, such as stress resilience and secondary metabolite production, further investigation is needed to decipher functional redundancy and interaction networks among BBX members, elucidate their integrated response mechanisms under complex field conditions. Analyzing these crucial regulatory networks will establish a fundamental framework and molecular targets for precisely manipulating the core domains or interaction interfaces of BBX proteins, thereby improving crop quality and resilience through approaches like gene editing, thus promoting their effectiveness in precision breeding.

INTRODUCTION: Cognitive function is closely linked to brain energy metabolism and may be compromised by aging, metabolic stress, and neuropsychiatric disease. Ketone bodies can serve as an alternative cerebral fuel and may also exert signaling effects relevant to cognition. Exogenous ketones (EK) offer a practical means of increasing circulating ketone concentrations without dietary carbohydrate restriction. However, the overall effect of EK supplementation on cognitive performance in humans has not been systematically quantified. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched through October 2025 for randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of EK on cognitive outcomes in healthy adults or individuals with neuropsychiatric conditions. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by multiple reviewers using the PEDro scale. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated using random-effects models. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses examined the influence of ketone formulation, intervention duration, dose, population type, and presence of acute cognitive stressors. RESULTS: 38 studies comprising 41 protocols (1,602 participants) were included in the systematic review, with 29 protocols (1,117 participants) eligible for meta-analysis. EK supplementation was associated with a statistically significant improvement in cognitive performance compared with placebo (SMD = 0.29, 95% CI 0.16-0.41; p < 0.001). Sub-group analyses did not show statistically significant differences between the type of supplementation (p = 0.083), study duration (acute vs. intermediate; p = 0.11), population type (healthy vs. Alzheimer's disease; p = 0.077), or the presence of acute cognitive stressors (p = 0.89). Meta-regression revealed a positive association between daily EK dose and cognitive improvement. DISCUSSION: EK supplementation is associated with modest improvements in cognitive performance across diverse populations and study designs. These findings support EK as a flexible nutritional strategy for cognitive support and warrant further i

INTRODUCTION: Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) is highlighted as a diverse-purpose feed in the nutrition of small ruminants. This is a systematic review that compared its effects on goats based on a predetermined PICO model (Population: goats in different physiological phases; Intervention: dietary M. oleifera in the forms of leaf meal, extract, or silage; Comparison: no interventions; Outcomes: growth performance, antioxidant status, reproduction, and milk yield and quality). METHODS: The PRISMA guidelines were used to identify the studies from the search included PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, and the publication window was January 2015 to December 2025 and screened them with systematic eligibility criteria to minimize selection bias. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Regular addition of moderate amounts of Moringa supplements had a consistent beneficial effect on nutrient utilization and growth efficiency, and on nitrogen balance, with fibre digestibility improving by around 25%. An intensive antioxidant response was observed, as evidenced by significant increases in enzymatic defenses (e.g., superoxide dismutase upsurge by more than 100% at certain phases) and dramatic decreases in lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde drops by approximately 70%). Reproductive performance was positively affected by an improvement in endocrine functionality, and progesterone levels during early pregnancy rose up to ~90%." in supplemented doses, and litter size and offspring viability improved. The benefits of lactational responses were improved milk output and production of milk fat and protein, in addition to a more desirable composition of fatty acids and enhanced oxidative stability of milk. The evidence is that M. oleifera is a highly nutritional phytogenic nutraceutical capable of enhancing metabolic efficiency, oxidative balance, reproductive performance, and quality of milk in goats. It produces benefits at moderate dietary inclusion levels, with physiological optimization as opposed to maximal dosing.

BACKGROUND: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often coexists with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), exacerbating impairment. The distinct neurological and biological patterns that differentiate this comorbidity from ADHD alone remain unclear. METHOD: We conducted systematic review of multi model correlates differentiating ODD+ADHD from ADHD alone following PRISMA 2020 with databases like MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Sciences until August 2025. 144 full texts were reviewed and 26 studies were selected for final inclusion after 1457 records with 37 other sources. Designs included cross-sectional case-control studies, longitudinal studies, and imaging based on the ABCD framework, while measures covered structural and functional MRI, diffusion MRI, resting and task fNIRS, EEG and ERP, HPA-axis and immune-metabolic biomarkers, and executive and cognitive indices. The evaluation of bias employed RoB 2, ROBINS-I, and JBI, while synthesis utilised Braun-Clarke thematic analysis. RESULTS: Oppositionality involved limbic-striatal and cerebello-cortical differences, with ODD+ADHD showing greater executive and emotion-processing deficits than ADHD alone. ODD was linked to lower cortisol and reduced sympathetic reactivity, while ADHD showed higher cortisol and tryptophan-kynurenine shifts, with cytokines decreasing after methylphenidate. CONCLUSION: ODD along with ADHD showed a distinct neurobiological and physiological pattern from ADHD alone. Such pattern is marked by greater executive and emotional regulation deficits with unique stress-response patterns, highlighting the need for tailored assessments and intervention approaches. © 2026. The Author(s).

Comment on doi: 10.2196/83294. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials evaluating digital health interventions for family members of intensive care unit (ICU) patients found no significant improvements in anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, quality of life, or communication quality. Rather than concluding that digital approaches are inherently ineffective, we argue that these null findings reflect identifiable and remediable limitations in intervention design, outcome measurement, and trial methodology. In this commentary, we examine four structural barriers that currently constrain the evidence base and outline the conditions that next-generation trials must meet to adequately address the questions raised by this review. © Tanya Abenaim, Dan Poenaru, Michael Goldfarb. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org).

Background/Objectives: Nitric oxide (NO) is a key mediator of vascular, metabolic, and redox pathways, influencing exercise performance. Beetroot, a natural source of inorganic nitrate, increases NO bioavailability and may modulate oxidative stress and inflammation, though data in endurance athletes remain limited. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a novel beetroot-based nitrate supplement (B-bNs) on NO metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation in non-professional triathletes. Methods: This was a randomized 2 × 2 cross-over pilot study with two 7-day periods (B-bNs vs. No treatment), separated by a 15-day washout (4 visits: Day 1, 7, 22 and 28). Samples were collected at baseline (T0), 2 h post-first dose (T1), and after 7 days (T2) for the supplementation period (B-bNs) and at T0 and T2 for the "no treatment" period. The following biomarkers from plasma and urine were evaluated: NO pathway (NO metabolites (NOx), nitrite (NO2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), peroxynitrite, 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT)), oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, 8-isoprostane, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity), and cytokines (IL-6, IL-10). A total of 10 male triathletes (mean age 48.1 ± 9.8 years and BMI 23.9 ± 2.2 kg/m2) participated in this study. Results: No adverse events were reported. After 7 days of supplementation (T2 vs. T0), significant increases in NOx in plasma and urine (about +155%), iNOS (+56%), peroxynitrite (+60%), 3-NT (+8.6%), ROS (+413%) and IL-6 (+73%) were recorded. These values resulted significantly higher compared to "no treatment" (all p = 0.002), with no significant differences for 3-NT, SOD, 8-isoprostane, IL-6, and IL-10. Conclusions: Beetroot-based nitrate supplementation may enhance the NO-related pathway in non-professional endurance athletes with nitric-peroxydation activation, occurring without evidence of lipid oxidative damage. Larger placebo-controlled trials with standardized diet/training and performance outcomes are needed to determine the functional significance of these preliminary findings. This study was registered in the ISRCTN registry (ISRCTN10885376).

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study examined the effects of a novel phytochemical supplement blend on markers of exercise-induced muscle damage. METHODS: In a randomised, parallel group design, 24 healthy participants (14 males) consumed 300 mg of a phytochemical blend (calcium fructoborate, turmeric and pomegranate; PB) or inert placebo for 9 days (n = 12 per condition). On day 7, participants performed 150 drop jumps to induce muscle damage. Markers of neuromuscular function, muscle soreness/pain, perceived exhaustion and sleep quality, were measured pre-exercise and 24, 48, and 72 h post-exercise; systemic markers of inflammation, muscle damage, and oxidative stress were measured on these days as well post-exercise and 2.5 h post-exercise. RESULTS: There was an interaction effect for pressure pain threshold in the vastus lateralis (p = 0.041), which was ~21% higher in PB 72 h post-exercise (p = 0.074; ds = 0.767). Perceived sleep quality was greater 72 h post-exercise in PB (p = 0.049; rrb = 0.423) and those in the PB condition reported feeling more recovered and less mentally drained post-exercise (p ≤ 0.043). There were no statistically significant between-condition differences for any markers of neuromuscular function, inflammation, oxidative stress or muscle damage (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, a novel PB showed promise for attenuating muscle pain and perceived exhaustion, and improving sleep quality, in the days after muscle damaging exercise. The study protocol was pre-registered on the Open Science Framework Registry (registration number: qgw3a).

BACKGROUND: Olfactory cues from the mother may soothe distress in premature infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This study evaluated the effect of a maternal scent-infused blanket on stress, crying duration, and physiological parameters in premature newborns. METHODS: This double-blind randomized clinical trial included 69 premature infants who were randomly assigned to one of three groups: maternal scent-infused blanket, unscented blanket, or control (no blanket) group. Infants were covered with the assigned blanket for 60 min daily for 3 consecutive days. The maternal scent was obtained by placing a clean blanket in contact with the mother's bare chest overnight prior to each day's exposure, with fragrance-free cleansing products used and a new blanket for each session. Primary outcomes were stress level (Newborn Stress Scale, NSS), crying duration (chronometer), and Secondary outcomes were physiological parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and body temperature). Measurements were collected at 5 min before intervention, immediately after, and at 15, 30, 45, and 60 min during intervention, plus 5 min after intervention, each day for three consecutive days. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and ANCOVA adjusting for baseline values; p < 0.05 denoted significance. RESULTS: Stress scores and crying duration differed significantly among groups during the intervention, with the maternal scent-infused blanket group showing lower NSS scores and shorter crying times than the unscented and no-blanket groups (p < 0.001). During exposure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and body temperature differed among groups (significant at multiple time points, p < 0.001); by contrast, respiratory rate did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). Differences were not observed at baseline or immediately after the intervention for these physiological measures. CONCLUSION: The maternal scent-infused blanket may reduce stress and crying duration, with transient improvements in some physiological parameters during exposure. Maternal olfactory cues could serve as a feasible non-pharmacological adjunct to support comfort and well-being in vulnerable ne

14. Child Care Health Dev. 2026 May;52(3):e70289. doi: 10.1111/cch.70289. A Study Exploring an Intervention for Emotion Regulation and Stress Coping in Preschool Children. Wang S(1), Qiu M(1), Wu J(1), Wu J(1), Zhang J(1). Author information: (1)Department of Medical Psychology, Xinhua Hospital

BACKGROUND: Stress, sleep deprivation, and burnout are significant safety risks for acute care surgeons, negatively impacting performance, well-being, and clinical outcomes. OBJECTIVE: This pilot randomized controlled trial aimed to measure neurophysiological effects of prescribed music (PM) and self-selected music (SSM) on surgeon stress, burnout, and neurophysiological responses using a multimodal protocol that integrated functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), wearable biosensor monitoring, and psychological self-assessments. METHODS: Full-time attending surgeons at a quaternary care hospital were invited to participate in a 3-armed trial (1:1:1 block allocation). Intervention groups were instructed to listen to 30 minutes (minimum 15 minutes) of either PM or SSM daily at bedtime for 6 weeks, reflecting real-world conditions. PM comprised original compositions based on elements promoting perceived relaxation from a prior study. The control arm avoided music in the 30 minutes before bed. Allocation was concealed from the recruiting investigator; the fMRI technicians, the statistician, and lead investigators were blinded until analyses were completed. Functional connectivity patterns were measured using fMRI at baseline and 6 weeks while participants listened to simulated intensive care unit noise, PM, and SSM. Secondary outcomes included continuous actigraphy for sleep quality and self-reported anxiety, sleep quality, and burnout using validated scales (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Maslach Burnout Inventory). RESULTS: A total of 22 surgeons were assessed; demands of fMRI and data collection schedule led 3 to decline and 2 (allocated to PM) not to finish baseline measures; 6 PM, 5 SSM, and 6 controls received allocated intervention; 2 PM participants were withdrawn for nonadherence and missing follow-up data and 1 control missed follow-up collection due to scheduling (final analysis set after missing data: PM: n=4, SSM: n=5, control: n=5). One control participant experienced transient vertigo in fMRI. Trends in fMRI data indicated that both intervention groups experienced less negative emotional arousal and anxiety, w

This study examined whether heat acclimation (HA), and HA with blood flow restriction (BFR) could attenuate cognition and neuromuscular function impairments in cognitive-motor dual-task (CMDT) during exercise-heat stress. Twenty trained adults were randomly assigned to one of two HA protocols over six sessions (~8 days). Each session consisted of 4 × 8-min self-regulated cycling intervals (5-min "strong effort", 3-min "moderate effort") in temperate conditions (20°C), immediately followed by 40-min hot water immersion (40°C). One group exercised with BFR during the "strong" bouts (50% arterial occlusion pressure; BFRHA), whereas the control group completed without occlusion (CTRLHA). Before and after HA protocols, participants completed an exercise-heat stress test with CMDT (pre- post-HA; 40°C, 40% relative humidity): 1 × 7-min self-regulated cycling ("strong effort") followed by 2 × 7-min fixed-power blocks with an attentional task. Heart rate, rectal temperature, and mental effort were recorded, while neuromuscular function (peripheral, central responses) was assessed post-CMDT during a 1-min sustained maximal contraction. During HA sessions, heart rate and rectal temperature were comparable between groups (p ≥ 0.19), despite a reduced power during BFRHA (-22% ± 6%; p < 0.001). Post-HA, both groups reduced (p ≤ 0.003) peak heart rate (CTRLHA:-5 ± 4 bpm, BFRHA:-7 ± 6 bpm) and rectal temperature (CTRLHA:-0.19 ± 0.15°C, BFRHA:-0.15 ± 0.12°C). Both improved attentional performance (CTRLHA:+10% ± 5%, BFRHA:+9% ± 7%; p < 0.001) with lower mental effort, while reduced force loss was evident only in BFRHA post-HA (+18% ± 12%, p = 0.001), consistent with lower central fatigue (p = 0.028) versus pre-HA. Effective heat adaptations were induced by both HA protocols, despite the lower workload with BFR. Both approaches enhanced sustained attention during an exercise-heat stress with CMDT, while BFR additionally mitigated central fatigue. © 2026 The Author(s). Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science In Sports published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

BACKGROUND: Tranexamic acid (TXA) is widely used for pigmentary disorders, but its anti-ageing potential remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate whether topical 3% TXA improves early periorbital wrinkles in women with facial melasma and to investigate whether TXA protects human dermal fibroblasts from D-galactose-induced senescence via the GPR30/MAPK pathway. METHODS: Fifty women with melasma were randomized to 3% TXA serum plus moisturizer or moisturizer alone for 8 weeks, with follow-up to week 12. Periorbital wrinkles were graded using a modified Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Scale (MFWS). Separately, D-gal-induced senescence in HDFs was assessed via viability, SA-β-gal activity, senescence markers, ROS, antioxidant enzymes, SASP/ECM gene expression, and MAPK activation. GPR30 involvement was examined using antagonist G15, shRNA knockdown, and molecular docking. RESULTS: Topical TXA produced significantly greater MFWS reductions versus moisturizer alone at weeks 4, 8, and 12, with benefit persisting post-treatment. In HDFs, TXA preserved viability, reduced SA-β-gal positivity, attenuated p21/p16, restored Lamin B1, decreased ROS, and rescued antioxidant activities. TXA downregulated IL-6, IL-8, MMP1, and MMP3, and suppressed D-gal-induced ERK, JNK, and p38 phosphorylation. These effects were weakened by G15 or GPR30 knockdown; docking supported a stable TXA-GPR30 interaction. CONCLUSIONS: TXA showed clinical anti-wrinkle activity in melasma patients and protected HDFs from D-gal-induced senescence, partly via GPR30-dependent modulation of oxidative stress, SASP/ECM expression, and MAPK signalling. TXA is a promising candidate for skin ageing intervention.

This prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the efficacy and safety of thiamin and folic acid for cognitive impairment in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. A total of 215 MHD patients aged 18-75 with cognitive impairment were randomized to receive either oral thiamin (90 mg/day) plus folic acid (30 mg/day) or a placebo for 96 weeks. The primary endpoint was the change in the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive section (ADAS-Cog) score. After 96 weeks, the treatment group showed a significant improvement in ADAS-Cog scores (from 21.25 ± 9.2 to 15.07 ± 8.38, p < 0.001), whereas the placebo group showed a non‑significant improvement (from 24.53 ± 11.01 to 26.53 ± 14.43, p = 0.077). The treatment group also demonstrated significantly increased blood levels of thiamin (from 5.59 ± 0.95 to 18.21 ± 3.91 ng/mL) and folate (from 12.37 ± 4.62 to 63.33 ± 16.02 ng/mL), and a reduction in homocysteine levels (from 4709.06 ± 353.15 to 2962.68 ± 158.87 ng/mL, p < 0.001), with no significant changes in the placebo group. While mortality was similar between the two groups (12.1% vs. 12.0%, p = 0.978), the incidence of adverse events was significantly lower in the treatment group (31.8% vs. 62.0%, p = 0.0017), particularly cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (13.1% vs. 25.9%, p = 0.001). The study concludes that combined thiamin and folic acid supplementation improves cognitive function in MHD patients with a favorable safety profile.

BACKGROUND: Dementia affects over 50 million people worldwide, with numbers projected to triple by 2050. Informal caregivers-predominantly family members-provide the majority of daily care and exhibit disproportionately high rates of psychological distress, depressive symptoms, and perceived burden. Although mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have consistently demonstrated moderate-to-large effect sizes for improving caregiver mental health, traditional delivery modalities-face-to-face sessions or audio-guided home practice-are frequently constrained by low adherence, scheduling conflicts, and limited ecological validity within domestic settings. Immersive virtual reality (VR) technology offers a novel platform that can simulate restorative natural environments, minimise external distractions, and standardise mindfulness instructions while preserving temporal flexibility for users. Emerging evidence from non-caregiver populations suggests that VR-based MBIs may enhance engagement, retention, and affective outcomes compared with audio-only equivalents; however, data specific to dementia caregivers remain absent. This pilot study aims to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of a VR-based MBI in improving psychological status and caregiver-recipient relationship dementia caregivers. METHODS: This is a 3-arm, parallel, single-blinded, pilot randomised control trial comparing VR-based MBI with audio-based MBI and care-as-usual. The target sample includes 90 caregivers of community-dwelling persons with dementia. Each arm (n = 30) will receive an eight-week exercise with instructions, with outcome assessment at baseline, post-treatment, and a 2-month follow-up. Qualitative interviews will also be conducted to assess the feasibility and acceptance. The VR-based MBI group will engage in mindfulness exercises using a mobile app and VR technology, incorporating different natural environments. The primary outcome is the caregivers' psychological status regarding depression, anxiety, and stress. The secondary outcomes include caregiver burden, mindfulness level, quality of life and caregiver-recipient relationship. Following intention-to-treat analy

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Osteoporosis is a significant risk factor for complications after spinal fusion surgery. Romosozumab, a sclerostin inhibitor, is approved for treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high fracture risk. PURPOSE: Here we investigated the theoretical effects of romosozumab on changes in vertebral strength around virtually-implanted pedicle screws, using biomechanical computed tomography (BCT). STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: This retrospective secondary analysis utilized CT scans from 2 randomized clinical trials of osteoporosis drug treatments in postmenopausal women: a phase 2 trial (12-month romosozumab vs placebo vs teriparatide) in women with low bone mineral density (BMD) and a phase 3 trial (12-month romosozumab followed by 12-month alendronate vs 24-month alendronate alone) in women with osteoporosis. PATIENT SAMPLE: Subsets of 82 patients from the phase 2 trial who received subcutaneous romosozumab 210 mg/mo, placebo, or subcutaneous teriparatide 20 μg/d and 90 patients from the phase 3 trial were included in respective imaging substudies. Patients from the substudies in the present analysis had to have baseline and ≥1 postbaseline BCT measurement at Month 12 in the phase 2 trial, and at Months 6, 12, and 24 in the phase 3 trial. OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary endpoints were percent changes (follow-up vs baseline) in shear bone strength and volume of failed tissue compared between treatments; the secondary endpoint was percent change from baseline in periprosthetic BMD. METHODS: For each participant, the baseline CT scan was used to create a finite element model for the L1 vertebra, which was then virtually implanted with pedicle screws and virtually loaded to failure in a "shear pullout" configuration; follow-up CT scans (at 6, 12, or 24 months) were processed in the same way. RESULTS: For the phase 2 trial (N=79), the mean (95% confidence interval) percent change from baseline to Month 12 in shear bone strength was 24.7% (20.8-28.6%) for romosozumab, which was greater (p<.001) than the changes of -2.2% (-5.8 to 1.5%) for placebo and 14.8% (11.3-18.4%) for teriparatide. For the phase 3 trial (N=79), percent change in shear bone strength

Crop productivity is a major concern in modern agriculture due to fluctuating environmental conditions, such as salinity. This study aims to explore the green-synthesized potassium nanoparticles (K-NPs) mediated metabolic regulations, including improved ion homeostasis, photosynthetic efficiency, and antioxidative defense mechanisms in soybean (Glycine max var. Soygold) under salinity stress. The K-NPs were green synthesized using the leaf extract of Cordia myxa L. and then characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and zeta potential. Soybean seedlings were treated with 0, 30, 60, and 90 mg L-1 of K-NPs along with salinity stress of 30, 60, and 90 mg L-1 NaCl at 3, 7, and 14 days of plant growth. After the treatments, morphological, biochemical and antioxidant activities were measured. The plant root/shoot lengths were enhanced by 9% and 59%, respectively, while the number of leaves was increased by 32%, fresh biomass by 84%, and dry weight by 105% under K-NPs treatments compared to control. K-NPs at 30 and 60 mg L-1showed non-significant results under 60 and 90 mg L-1 NaCl concentrations, but highly significant results were observed at 90 mg L-1 K-NPs under 30 and 90 mg L-1 NaCl concentrations. The 90 mg L-1 K-NP concentration improved the root/shoot lengths of soybean seedlings by 33% and 132%, respectively. The number of leaves were increased by 38%, the plant fresh biomass by 22%, and dry weight by 133% as compared to lower concentrations under salinity stress. Furthermore, phenolic contents, secondary metabolites, and ionic homeostasis were also increased in the presence of 90 mg L-1 K-NPs under 90 mg L-1 NaCl salinity stress. When exposed to salt stress, K-NPs treatment increased antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and POX) more than the salt stressed control. Taken together, these results suggest that K-NPs are effective nanomaterials for plant growth enhancement by regulating the defense mechanisms of soybean to cope with salt stress conditions. The findings could help in the designing and optimization of nanomaterial-based fertilizers in order to achieve sustainable agriculture. © 2026 Scandinavian Pl

This study presents an integrated multivariate and univariate analysis of circadian metabolomic signatures in Ilex paraguariensis (yerba mate) clones cultivated under semi-hydroponic conditions. Using repeated measures ANOVA-Simultaneous Component Analysis (RM-ASCA+) and hierarchical clustering on principal components (HCPC), we explored clone-specific and photoperiod-dependent metabolic responses across light and dark phases, complemented by high-resolution timepoint sampling (HRS) and targeted screening. Clone EC21 exhibited elevated levels of sugars, amino acids, and organic acids, suggesting a metabolic strategy adapted to saline stress and nocturnal energy demands. Photoperiod effects revealed circadian regulation of central carbon metabolites (e.g., glucose, fructose, maltose) and phenylpropanoid intermediates linked to bioactive compounds such as caffeoyl-quinic acids. Interaction effects highlighted metabolic plasticity, particularly in nitrogen assimilation, with compounds like 2-oxo-glutaric acid, glutamine, and ornithine showing clone-specific temporal patterns. Caffeine, a heritable and physiologically relevant metabolite, displayed distinct circadian profiles. EC24 accumulated caffeine during the day, while EC21 peaked at night. This dynamic distribution, supported by allantoin patterns in caffeine catabolism, suggests divergent nitrogen turnover strategies between clones. These findings underscore the importance of genotype selection and temporal regulation in optimizing yerba mate performance under semi-hydroponic systems. The combined use of RM-ASCA+ and univariate analysis proved to be a powerful approach for profiling metabolomic rhythms, offering valuable insights for breeding programs targeting bioactive compound enhancement, stress resilience, and metabolic efficiency. © 2026 Scandinavian Plant Physiology Society.

Research suggests that domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) living as pets within urban environments may experience challenges such as sensory overstimulation, limited agency, and hyper-dependence on humans. Such factors have been associated with the development of chronic stress within this population. While stress can be an adaptive response to internal or external challenges, chronic stress can have a negative impact on a dog's health, well-being and strain the human-animal bond. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 5.8 million domestic dogs and cats entered U.S. shelters, of which 607,000 were killed in 2024. Recent research indicates that behavioural issues remain among the most common reasons for relinquishment. Numerous studies identify chronic stress as an important yet often overlooked contributor to the development of problematic behaviours. Given the broad health and behavioural consequences of chronic stress, we argue that frameworks helping caregivers and communities recognize causes of stress and opportunities for mitigation are critically important. Moreover, sharing human environments exposes dogs to many of the same urban stressors, making dogs a particularly informative model for exploring mechanisms, detection, and mitigation of chronic stress relevant to both canine and human well-being. In this review, we briefly summarize current knowledge about the mechanisms and regulation of chronic stress in pet dogs, describe how prolonged dysregulation of stress-response systems affects health and behaviour, and review current physiological and behavioural indicators of chronic stress in dogs, discussing their present limitations. We consider existing evidence for the hypothesis that a sustained inability to satisfy species-specific, breed-specific, and individual needs across physiological, safety, social, and cognitive domains may be a major cause of chronic stress in dogs living in urban environments. Finally, we outline key directions for future research, including possible approaches for developing validated diagnostic and screening methods to measure chronic stress in pet dogs, systematic evaluation of in

BackgroundThe ongoing genocide (as declared on September 16, 2025 by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel) and militarized siege in Gaza has led to the systematic collapse of the health system, with hospitals overwhelmed by targeted bombings, mass casualties, infrastructural annihilation, and profound psychological suffering. Nurses have been subjected not only to extreme occupational stress but to deliberate conditions of deprivation and moral violation.Research aimTo explore the lived experiences of nurses in Gaza's hospitals, documenting compassion fatigue, burnout, and moral injury within a genocidal context of healthcare destruction.Research designA qualitative design was employed using thematic analysis of in-depth testimonies.Participants and Research ContextTestimonies were collected from nurses working in Gaza's remaining hospitals between late 2023 and mid2025. Participants served as frontline caregivers while enduring forced displacement, starvation, and personal bereavement.Ethical considerationsEthical approval was obtained from local review boards. Informed consent, confidentiality, and emotional safety were ensured under exceptionally high-risk conditions.FindingsSix themes were identified: (1) collapse of hospital care; (2) nurses' bodies and minds under siege; (3) maternal starvation and neonatal death; (4) burden of infection and decay; (5) solitary mourning and improvised funerary practices; and (6) the struggle to endure and find meaning. Nurses reported compassion fatigue, moral injury, somaticexhaustion, and cognitive impairment, all intensified by the genocide's material and emotional toll.DiscussionCaregiving persisted despite repeated targeting of medical personnel and infrastructure. Findings extend conventional models ofburnout and secondary trauma by situating experiences within the concept of 'medicide,' defined as the systematic destruction of health systems.ConclusionsThis study provides an empirically grounded account of nursing labor under conditions described by international bodies as genocidal. Insights have urgent implications for nu

The purpose of this paper is to identify studies of hospital-based occupational stress prior to the COVID-19 pandemic that can offer lessons to nurse leaders in our current post-pandemic environment. A scoping review was conducted based on the Joanna Briggs Institute framework, including key phases and principles identified by Arksey and O'Malley. Evidence from different disciplines and settings has been relatively siloed. Nurses and doctors have tended to be studied separately using different constructs. Progress in developing more effective interventions to mitigate occupational stress in healthcare may require greater cross-disciplinary collaboration in which nurse leaders are well poised to lead.

Environmental neurotoxicants such as rotenone (RO) and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) are known to induce cytotoxicity in neural cells. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective properties of active vitamin D3 against the cytotoxic effects of RO and MPTP on undifferentiated human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells. Exposure to these neurotoxins resulted in concentration- and time-dependent reductions in cell viability. Cotreatment with vitamin D significantly mitigated the cytotoxic impact of both compounds. Furthermore, vitamin D attenuated disruptions in noradrenaline turnover and acetylcholinesterase activity caused by neurotoxin exposure. Mechanistic exploration revealed that vitamin D preserved cellular bioenergetics by maintaining ATP levels, supporting Mitochondrial Complexes I and III activities, stabilizing mitochondrial membrane potential and reducing lactate accumulation. Vitamin D also reduced oxidative stress, as evidenced by lower reactive species production and lipid peroxidation, while enhancing catalase (CAT) activity in treated cells. In addition, vitamin D counteracted the upregulation of neurodevelopmental genes CAMK2A and CAMK2B induced by neurotoxin exposure. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that vitamin D3 confers significant neuroprotection against RO- and MPTP-induced toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells by modulating mitochondrial function, oxidative stress and neurochemical balance. These results support the potential therapeutic use of vitamin D3 to prevent or ameliorate neurodegenerative conditions and other neurological disorders characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative damage. Plain Language Summary: Vitamin D3 may help protect brain cells from damage caused by environmental chemicals linked to Parkinson's disease. In this study, human nerve‐like cells were exposed to two such chemicals, rotenone and MPTP, which reduced cell survival, disturbed energy production and increased harmful ‘oxidative stress’. Pretreating the cells with active vitamin D3 improved cell viability, preserved mitochondrial function, reduced oxidative damage and stabilized important brain chemicals and related genes. The

COL12A1 SNPs are linked to ACL injury risk, but functional effects are unknown. We examined COL12A1 rs970547 genotype distribution in Chinese male ACL injury patients versus controls, and its impact on collagen homeostasis and fibroblast function. ACL-derived fibroblasts with rs970547(A/A) or (A/G) were obtained from patients and controls. Collagen synthesis, COL12A1 protein stability, and ER stress were assessed. The (A/A) genotype was over-represented in ACL patients. It reduced COL12A1 protein levels via destabilization, while increasing total collagen synthesis. This was associated with ER stress induction. Inhibiting ER stress rescued the functional phenotype of (A/A) fibroblasts. COL12A1 rs970547(A/A) disrupts collagen regulation and triggers ER stress, functionally impairing ACL fibroblasts and potentially elevating ACL injury risk. © 2026 The Author(s). Advanced Biology published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH.

This study aimed to investigate the role of lysine acetyltransferase 6A (KAT6A) in lung cancer progression and its potential involvement in Nrf2-related oxidative stress regulation. KAT6A was overexpressed or silenced in A549 and H1299 lung cancer cells. KAT6A expression was verified by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Cell Counting Kit-8 and Transwell assays showed that KAT6A overexpression promoted cell proliferation and invasion, whereas KAT6A silencing suppressed cell proliferation. KAT6A overexpression decreased the expression of Keap1 protein and enhanced Nrf2 signaling activity. Oxidative stress evaluation using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate staining, malondialdehyde (MDA) detection, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity assays indicated decreased reactive oxygen species levels, reduced MDA content, and elevated SOD activity. Co-immunoprecipitation confirmed the interaction between KAT6A and Nrf2, and dual-luciferase reporter assays showed enhanced Nrf2 transcriptional activity on the heme oxygenase-1 promoter. Silencing Nrf2 reversed the effects of KAT6A on proliferation. Immunohistochemistry of clinical lung adenocarcinoma samples showed that high KAT6A expression correlated with advanced tumor stage and shorter overall survival. These findings suggest that KAT6A regulates oxidative stress via the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway, thereby promoting malignant progression in lung adenocarcinoma, and may serve as a potential prognostic biomarker. © 2026 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.

To evaluate the effect of graded glass infiltration on the fatigue behavior and mechanical reliability of translucent 4Y-PSZ zirconia before and after hydrothermal aging, disc-shaped specimens were fabricated by uniaxial pressing and divided into control and glass-graded groups (n = 36/group). Glass infiltration was performed on pre-sintered specimens followed by final sintering, and half of the specimens from each group underwent hydrothermal aging (134°C, 2.2 bar, 20 h). Microstructure and phase composition were assessed by scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction. Mechanical performance was evaluated using step-stress accelerated life testing, with Weibull statistics, reliability analysis, and inverse power-law modeling. Glass-graded specimens demonstrated higher reliability and characteristic strength (≈330 MPa increase) with similar Weibull modulus compared to controls. The inverse power-law parameter α0 was higher for the glass-graded group, indicating extended fatigue life, whereas comparable α1 values suggested similar life-stress relationships. Hydrothermal aging did not significantly affect mechanical performance, although phase transformation occurred in the control group. Fractography revealed surface-initiated failures in controls and interface-related crack initiation in glass-graded specimens. Graded glass infiltration improved the fatigue reliability and characteristic strength without compromising hydrothermal stability of 4Y-PSZ. These results suggest that glass-graded 4Y-PSZ may expand the clinical applicability of translucent zirconia for long-span (≥4-unit) prosthetic reconstructions. © 2026 The Author(s). European Journal of Oral Sciences published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Scandinavian Division of the International Association for Dental Research.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by soil bacteria influence interactions with other soil microbes and plants. While their potential as plant growth promoters is well recognized, their role in promoting plant resilience to abiotic stress and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we investigate the role of Pseudomonas VOCs in enhancing plant resilience to drought stress Arabidopsis seedlings were exposed to VOCs emitted by Pseudomonas strains under control and osmotic stress conditions. Plant biomass and root architecture were evaluated. Root transcriptomics analysis was performed and validated using Arabidopsis mutants and metabolomics. Volatile organic compounds effects were also tested on soil-grown Brassica oleracea and on its rhizosphere microbiome. Pseudomonas VOCs promoted plant growth under both axenic and soil conditions in A. thaliana and in B. oleracea, and under control and drought conditions. Transcriptomics, metabolomics, and functional analysis revealed interactions between Pseudomonas VOCs, glucosinolates, and ABA signalling, as well as a positive association between VOC exposure and coumarin biosynthesis. VOC treatment also reshaped the rhizosphere microbiome under drought, leading to a community composition more similar to that of well-watered plants. Overall, Pseudomonas VOCs promote plant growth under drought conditions, linked to root transcriptional reprogramming and direct or indirect microbiome modulation. © 2026 The Author(s). New Phytologist © 2026 New Phytologist Foundation.