Correlación entre marcadores inflamatorios con función física y composición corporal en adultos mayores de la comunidad: estudio transversal / Correlation between inflammatory markers with physical function and bodycomposition in community older adults: a cross-sectional study

Introducción: El envejecimiento está relacionado con diversas enfermedades crónicas que causan inflamación sistémica, caracterizada por un aumento en los niveles sanguíneos de interleucina 6 (IL-6) y factor de necrosis tumoral alfa (TNF-α). La función física y la composición corporal podrían estar relacionadas con estos marcadores inflamatorios en adultos mayores.Objetivo: Analizar la correlación entre marcadores inflamatorios sanguíneos, función física y composición corporal en adultos mayores de la comunidad.Metodología: Estudio transversal con 245 adultos mayores (hombres 68±6 años; mujeres: 69%) de la ciudad de Londrina, Brasil. Se analizaron los niveles sanguíneos de IL-6 y TNF-α con citometría de flujo. Para la evaluación física fue considerado el equilibrio estático con la prueba de estación unipodal (PEU), la fuerza de prensión manual (FPM) utilizando un dinamómetro digital y la capacidad aeróbica con la prueba de caminata de seis minutos (PC6M). Para la evaluación de la composición corporal, fueron considerados los siguientes perímetros: cadera, pantorrilla, cuádriceps, bíceps braquial, tríceps braquial y cintura. Se analizó la correlación de las variables inflamatorias con las de función física y composición corporal, utilizando Pearson o Spearman con el software SPSS versión 22.Resultados: Los niveles de IL-6 se correlacionaron con la PEU (r: -0.22; p: 0.002), el perímetro de tríceps (r: 0.16; p: 0.023) y el de cintura (r: 0.34; p: 0.000). Los niveles de TNF-α se correlacionaron con FPM (r: -0.15; p: 0.035), el perímetro de tríceps (r: 1.79; p: 0.012) y el de cintura (r: 0.27; p< 0.001). Conclusión: Los marcadores inflamatorios están relacionados con menor fuerza, equilibrio estático y un aumento en el perímetro de tríceps y cintura en adultos mayores de la comunidad.(AU)

Introduction: Aging is associated with various chronic dis-eases that cause systemic inflammation, characterized by an in-crease in blood levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Physical function and body compositionmay be related to these inflammatory markers in older adults.Objective: To analyze the correlation between blood in-flammatory markers, physical function and body compositionin community-dwelling older adults.Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out with242 community-dwelling older adults (mean age was 68±6years for males and 70±6 years for females; the percentageof men was 36.6% and 69.4% of women) from the city ofLondrina, Brazil. Blood levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were analyzedwith flow cytometry. For the physical evaluation, static balancewas measured with the one-legged stance test (OLS), hand-grip strength (HGS) using a digital dynamometer and aerobiccapacity with the six-minute walk test (6MWT). For the evalu-ation of body composition, the following perimeters were con-sidered: hip, calf, quadriceps, biceps brachii, triceps brachiiand waist. The correlation of inflammatory variables withthose of physical function and body composition was analyzedusing Pearson or Spearman with SPSS version 22 software.Results: IL-6 levels were correlated with OLS (r: -0.22;p:0.002), triceps circumference (r: 0.16; p:0.023) and waist cir-cumference (r: 0.34; p:0.000). TNF-α levels were correlatedwith HGS (r: -0.15; p:0.035), triceps circumference (r: 1.79;p:0.012) and waist circumference (r: 0.27; p < 0.001).Conclusion: Inflammatory biomarkers are related to lowmuscle strength, static balance, and an increase in tricepsand waist circumference.(AU)

The Acute Effects in Postural Sway as a Result of Self-Myofascial Release on the Lower Extremities in Collegiate Female Athletes.

Myofascial release is a popular therapy technique used to manipulate connective muscle tissue to become more pliable. The maintenance of body posture relies on mechanoreceptors located in connective tissue, thus manipulation of connective tissue should affect postural control. The effects of this phenomenon have not been well studied, leaving room for this investigation. PURPOSE: To observe if postural sway scores changed before and after foam rolling proximal (quadriceps and hamstrings) in comparison to distal (calves) muscles. METHODS: Thirty-six, college-aged female athletes (age 20.39 ± 0.25 years, mass 68.70 ± 1.97 kg, height 170.18 ± 1.56 cm.) performed approximately two and one-half minutes of moderate intensity foam rolling to their calves (n = 19, Group A) or to their hamstrings and quadricep muscle (n = 17, Group B). Center of Pressure (CoP) and Limit of Stability (LoS) testing was assessed both pre- and post-foam rolling using a computerized posturography balance plate. CoP sway was measured under both eyes open (EO) and eye closed (EC) Conditions on both stable and unstable surfaces. LoS was measured in the Anterior, Posterior, Left, and Right Directions. Effects of foam rolling on CoP and LoS were assessed using a repeated-measures MANOVA (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Eyes Open Stable Surface had the lowest postural sway (p = 0.001). However, CoP did not differ for any condition either between Groups (p ≥ 0.6) or from pre- to post-foam rolling (p = 0.3). LoS significantly differed between Directions such that LoS was greater in the frontal plane than in the sagittal plane (p = 0.011). There was also a significant Time X Group X Direction interaction effect (p = 0.001) such that LoS for Group A decreased after foam rolling (mean change = -1.621 cm) but increased for Group B after foam rolling (mean change = + 0.878 cm). No differences were found for any other Direction (p ≥ 0.1). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated CoP and LoS improvements between the two groups based on acute effects of foam rolling intervention. Further research is suggested to determine if long-term gains are observed within or between groups.

Salvia miltiorrhiza ameliorates endometritis in dairy cows by relieving inflammation, energy deficiency and blood stasis.

Introduction: According to traditional Chinese veterinary medicine, endometritis is caused by a combination of Qi deficiency, blood stasis, and external evil invasion. Salvia miltiorrhiza is a traditional Chinese medicine that counteracts blood stasis and has additional demonstrated effects in boosting energy and restraining inflammation. Salvia miltiorrhiza has been employed in many traditional Chinese prescriptions that have proven effective in healing clinical dairy cow endometritis. Methods: the in vivo effect of Salvia miltiorrhiza in treating endometritis was evaluated in dairy cows. In addition, bovine endometrial epithelium cell inflammation and rat blood stasis models were employed to demonstrate the crosstalk between energy, blood circulation and inflammation. Network analysis, western blotting, qRT-PCR and ELISA were performed to investigate the molecular mechanism of Salvia miltiorrhiza in endometritis treatment. Results: The results demonstrate that treatment with Salvia miltiorrhiza relieves uterine inflammation, increases blood ATP concentrations, and prolongs blood clotting times. Four of the six Salvia miltiorrhiza main components (SMMCs) (tanshinone IIA, cryptotanshinone, salvianolic acid A and salvianolic acid B) were effective in reversing decreased ATP and increased IL-1ß, IL-6, and IL-8 levels in an in vitro endometritis model, indicating their abilities to ameliorate the negative energy balance and external evil invasion effects of endometritis. Furthermore, in a blood stasis rat model, inflammatory responses were induced in the absence of external infection; and all six SMMCs inhibited thrombin-induced platelet aggregation. Network analysis of SMMC targets predicted that Salvia miltiorrhiza may mediate anti-inflammation via the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway; anti-aggregation via the Platelet activation pathway; and energy balance via the Thermogenesis and AMPK signaling pathways. Multiple molecular targets within these pathways were verified to be inhibited by SMMCs, including P38/ERK-AP1, a key molecular signal that may mediate the crosstalk between inflammation, energy deficiency and blood stasis. Conclusion: These results provide mechanistic understanding of the therapeutic effect of Salvia miltiorrhiza for endometritis achieved through Qi deficiency, blood stasis, and external evil invasion.

The effects of Tai Chi on standing balance control in older adults may be attributed to the improvement of sensory reweighting and complexity rather than reduced sway velocity or amplitude.

Introduction: Tai Chi has proved to be an effective therapy for balance performance and cognition. However, non-consistency exists in the results of the effect of Tai Chi training on standing balance control in older adults. This study aimed to use traditional and non-traditional methods to investigate the effect of Tai Chi on standing balance in older adults. Methods: Thirty-six Tai Chi practitioners (TC group) and thirty-six older adults with no Tai Chi practice (control group) were recruited in this study. A Nintendo Wii Balance Board was used to record the center of pressure (COP) during standing balance over 20 s in the condition of eyes closed with three repetitions. The wavelet analysis, multiscale entropy, recurrence quantification analysis, and traditional methods were used to evaluate the standing balance control in the anterior-posterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) directions. Results: (1) Greater sway mean velocity in the AP direction and sway Path length were found in the TC group compared with the control group; (2) lower Very-low frequency band (0.10-0.39 Hz) and higher Moderate frequency band (1.56-6.25 Hz) in the AP and ML directions were found in the TC group compared with the control group; (3) greater complexity index (CI) and lower determinism (DET) in the AP and ML directions were observed in the TC group compared with control group; (4) greater path length linked with smaller Very-low frequency band in the AP and ML directions and higher Moderate frequency band in the AP direction in both groups; (5) greater path length linked with lower DET and higher CI in the AP direction only in the TC group. Conclusion: Long-term Tai Chi practice improved sensory reweighting (more reliance on the proprioception system and less reliance on the vestibular system) and complexity of standing balance control in older adults. In addition, greater sway velocity may be as an exploratory role in standing balance control of TC older adults, which correlated with greater complexity, but no such significant relationship in the control group. Therefore, the effects of Tai Chi practice on standing balance control in older adults may be attributed to the improvement of sensory reweighting and complexity rather than reduced sway velocity or amplitude.

A Comprehensive Review of Chloride Management in Critically Ill Patients.

Chloride, often overshadowed in electrolyte management, emerges as a crucial player in the physiological intricacies of critically ill patients. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted aspects of chloride, ranging from its significance in cellular homeostasis to the consequences of dysregulation in critically ill patients. The pathophysiology of hyperchloremia and hypochloremia is dissected, highlighting their intricate impact on acid-base balance, renal function, and cardiovascular stability. Clinical assessment strategies, including laboratory measurements and integration with other electrolytes, lay the foundation for targeted interventions. Consequences of dysregulated chloride levels underscore the need for meticulous management, leading to an exploration of emerging therapies and interventions. Fluid resuscitation protocols, the choice between crystalloids and colloids, the role of balanced solutions, and individualized patient approaches comprise the core strategies in chloride management. Practical considerations, such as monitoring and surveillance, overcoming implementation challenges, and embracing a multidisciplinary approach, are pivotal in translating theoretical knowledge into effective clinical practice. As we envision the future, potential impacts on critical care guidelines prompt reflections on integrating novel therapies, individualized approaches, and continuous monitoring practices. In conclusion, this review synthesizes current knowledge, addresses practical considerations, and envisions future directions in chloride management for critically ill patients. By embracing a holistic understanding, clinicians can navigate the complexities of chloride balance, optimize patient outcomes, and contribute to the evolving landscape of critical care medicine.

Unveiling the Efficacy of Physiotherapy Strategies in Alleviating Low Back Pain: A Comprehensive Review of Interventions and Outcomes.

Low back pain (LBP) presents a significant burden globally, affecting individuals of all ages, but it is more common in adults aged 30-60 years old and demographics including race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Physiotherapy interventions are commonly employed to manage LBP due to their non-invasive nature and potential for addressing underlying biomechanical dysfunctions. This comprehensive review aims to evaluate the efficacy of various physiotherapy strategies in alleviating LBP, considering a range of interventions and their associated outcomes. Through a thorough examination of existing literature from January 2017 to October 2023, this review synthesises evidence on the effectiveness of interventions such as manual therapy, exercise therapy, electrotherapy modalities, and education-based approaches. The review also scrutinizes the comparative effectiveness of different physiotherapy modalities and their suitability for specific patient populations, considering factors such as chronicity, severity, and underlying pathology. By critically evaluating the evidence base, this review aims to provide insights into the most effective physiotherapy strategies for alleviating LBP, chronic low back pain (CLBP) and chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP) and guiding clinical practice toward evidence-based interventions. The Visual Analogue Scale and Numerical Pain Rating Scale for pain, Oswestry Disability Index and Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire for disability, Modified-Modified Schober Test for measurement of lumbar flexion and extension and static and dynamic balance for assessing postural stability and balance were among the measures used to foresee enhancements in pain, disability, balance, and LBP symptoms. Twenty-one studies that fulfilled the criteria for inclusion (aged 20 to 50 years and of both genders) were added to the review. Exercises for core stability, strengthening, orthosis (a medical device designed to support, align, stabilise, or correct musculoskeletal structures and functions), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, heat massage therapy, interferential current (a form of electrical stimulation used in physical therapy), Mulligan's mobilization (a manual therapy technique), low-level laser therapy, and McGill stabilization exercises (core exercises) were among the therapeutic strategies. The McKenzie method (back exercises), ultrasound, sensory-motor training, Swiss ball exercises, and other techniques reduced pain and enhanced strength, balance, and ease of daily activities. Every therapeutic approach has an impact on recovery rates ranging from minimal to maximal. Conventional physical therapy is less effective than most recent advanced techniques like mobilisation and exercises. In summary, the integration of manual techniques, orthoses and alternative intervention strategies with conservative therapeutic approaches can effectively alleviate pain, enhance function and yield better overall outcomes. To get more information about the optimal dosage, therapeutic modalities and long-term effects of these treatments, more admirable research is required. This paper aims to expand the scientific discourse by exploring non-traditional physiotherapy interventions and assessing their efficacy in light of the rigorous standards set forth by the latest WHO guidelines.

The Protective Role of Vitamin E against Oxidative Stress and Immunosuppression Induced by Non-Esterified Fatty Acids in Bovine Peripheral Blood Leukocytes.

High levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) during the transition period lead to increased oxidative stress and immunosuppression in cows. Feeding them a vitamin-E-supplemented diet reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the blood and diminishes immunosuppression in the transition period. However, whether the restoration of immune cell function occurs through the direct action of vitamin E in cells is still a topic that requires further discussion. Therefore, in this experiment, we aimed to investigate the effect of NEFAs on peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) and whether vitamin E mitigates the impact of NEFAs. We employed three groups: (1) blank, (2) NEFA only, and (3) pre-culturing with vitamin E before NEFA treatment (VENEFA). In peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), there were no differences in vitamin E content among the three groups. However, in the vitamin E pre-treatment group, the vitamin E levels of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) were significantly higher than those in the other two groups. NEFA levels increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in PBMCs, but pre-treatment with vitamin E reduced accumulation of MDA levels. Regarding the expression of proinflammatory genes, NEFAs increased the expression of interleukin-1ß in PBMCs and colony-stimulating factor 2 in PMNs. Vitamin E pre-treatment restored the increase in interleukin-1ß levels caused by NEFAs in PBMCs. None of the groups affected the phagocytosis of PMNs. Few studies have confirmed that NEFAs cause oxidative stress in bovine PBLs. In summary, this study found that NEFAs induce oxidative stress in PBLs and alter the expression of inflammation-related genes; meanwhile, vitamin E can reduce some of the effects caused by NEFAs. This result may suggest that vitamin E can assist bovine PBLs in resisting the immune suppression caused by an NEB during the transition period.

The Effect of a Subsequent Dose of Dexmedetomidine or Other Sedatives following an Initial Dose of Dexmedetomidine on Electrolytes, Acid-Base Balance, Creatinine, Glucose, and Cardiac Troponin I in Cats: Part II.

The administered dose of dexmedetomidine may occasionally fail to produce the anticipated sedative effects. Therefore, a subsequent dose or administration of another sedative may enhance sedation; however, patient safety may be affected. The safety of seven different drugs administered at the following time point after an insufficient dose of dexmedetomidine was evaluated in a crossover, blind, experimental study that included six healthy adult cats. All cats received an initial dose of dexmedetomidine and a subsequent dose of either dexmedetomidine (Group DD), NS 0.9% (DC), tramadol (DT), butorphanol (DBT), buprenorphine (DBP), ketamine (DK), or midazolam (DM). Animal safety was assessed using repeated blood gas analysis and measurement of electrolytes, glucose, cardiac troponin I, and creatinine to evaluate cardiac, respiratory, and renal function. The median values of creatinine, cardiac troponin I, pH, partial pressure of carbon dioxide, potassium, and sodium did not change significantly throughout the study. Heart rate was significantly decreased in all groups after administration of the drug combinations, except for in the DK group. Respiratory rate decreased significantly after administration of the initial dose of dexmedetomidine and in the DBP and DM groups. The partial pressure of oxygen, although normal, decreased significantly after the administration of dexmedetomidine, whereas the median concentration of glucose increased significantly following the administration of dexmedetomidine. The results of our study suggest that the drug combinations used did not alter the blood parameters above normal limits, while cardiac and renal function were not compromised. Therefore, a safe level of sedation was achieved. However, the administration of dexmedetomidine reduced the partial pressure of oxygen; thus, oxygen supplementation during sedation may be advantageous. Additionally, the increase in glucose concentration indicates that dexmedetomidine should not be used in cats with hyperglycaemia, whereas the decrease in haematocrit suggests that dexmedetomidine is not recommended in anaemic cats.

[Xixin Decoction regulates Th17/Treg balance and transcription factor expression in senescence-accelerated mouse-prone].

This study aims to investigate the effect of Xixin Decoction on the T helper 17 cell(Th17)/regulatory T cell(Treg) ba-lance of intestinal mucosa and the expression of related transcription factors in the senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 8(SAMP8) model. Fifty 14-week male mice of SAMP8 were randomized by the random number table method into model group, probiotics group, and high-, medium-, and low-dose Xixin Decoction groups, with 10 mice in each group. Ten 14-week male mice of senescence-acce-lerated mouse-resistant 1(SAMR1) served as control group. After 10 weeks of feeding, the mice were administrated with correspon-ding drugs for 10 weeks. Morris water maze test was carried out to examine the learning and memory abilities of mice. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was employed to determine the content of secretory immunoglobulin A(SIgA) in the intestinal mucosa, and flow cytometry to detect the percentage content of Th17 and Treg in the intestinal mucosa. Western blot was performed to determine the protein levels of retinoid-related orphan receptor gamma t(RORγt) and forkhead box p3(Foxp3) in the mouse colon tissue. Compared with control group, the escape latency of mice in model group was significantly prolonged(P<0.01), and the number of times of crossing the platform and the residence time in the target quadrant were significantly reduced within 60 s(P<0.01), intestinal mucosal SIgA content was significantly decreased(P<0.01), Th17 content was increased(P<0.05), Treg content was decreased(P<0.01), the expression of RORγt protein was increased and Foxp3 protein was decreased in colon(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, high-dose Xixin Decoction group improved the learning and memory ability(P<0.05 or P<0.01). Probiotics group and high-and medium-dose Xixin Decoction group increased the content of SIgA in intestinal mucosa(P<0.05 or P<0.01), decreased percentage content of Th17 and increased the percentage content of Treg in intestinal mucosa(P<0.05 or P<0.01). Furthermore, they down-regulated the protein level of RORγt and up-regulated the protein level of Foxp3 in the intestinal mucosa(P<0.01). In conclusion, Xixin Decoction may act on intestinal mucosal immune barrier, affect gut-brain information exchange, and improve the learning and memory ability of SAMP8 by promoting SIgA secretion and regulating the Th17/Treg balance and the expression of RORγt and Foxp3.

The effect of Tai Chi lower extremity exercise on the balance control of older adults in assistant living communities.

BACKGROUND: Although Tai Chi (TC) is an evidence-based fall prevention training for older adults, its effective movements remain unclear, which may limit the practice of TC. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of TC lower extremity exercise (TC LEE), the 8-form Tai Chi (8-form TC), and a stretching control intervention for improving balance and functional mobility among older adults. METHODS: This was a randomized controlled trial. A total of 102 participants (79 ± 6 years old) were recruited from assisted living facilities. All participants were randomly assigned to the TC LEE (n = 40), 8-form TC (n = 31), and stretching (n = 31) groups in which they received the respective interventions for 16 weeks. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and center of pressure (COP) measurements during quiet stance were collected prior to and following the 16-week interventions. Comparisons on all measurements were conducted among all groups. RESULTS: Significant improvements were found in BBS (P = 0.002), TUG test (P = 0.001), root mean square amplitude of COP displacement in the anterior-posterior (P = 0.001) and medial-lateral (P = 0.001) directions, and average COP speed in the anterior-posterior (P = 0.001) and medial-lateral (P = 0.001) directions after training in the TC intervention groups compared with the stretching group. The upper limit of the 95% confidence interval (CI) of differences in change scores on the BBS (-0.8 - 1.3 points) between the TC LEE group and the 8-form TC group was within equivalence margins (1.8 points), while the upper limit of the 95% CI of differences in change scores on the TUG test (0.1 - 2.1 s) exceeded the equivalence margin (0.7 s) with the TC LEE group having the larger change scores. CONCLUSION: TC LEE can improve balance and functional mobility in older adults, and may have greater effect than the 8-form TC on improving functional mobility as measured by the TUG test. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR2300070600 retrospectively registered.

Tai Chi counteracts age-related somatosensation and postural control declines among older adults.

Objective: To investigate the effect of a 16-week Tai Chi practice on strength, tactile sensation, kinesthesia, and static postural control among older adults of different age groups. Methods: This is a quasi-experimental study. Thirteen participants aged 60-69 years (60-69yr), 11 aged 70-79 years (70-79yr), and 13 aged 80-89 years (80-89yr) completed 16 weeks of 24-form Tai Chi practice. Their ankle and hip peak torque, tactile sensation, ankle and knee kinesthesia, and the root mean square of the center of pressure (Cop-RMS) were measured before (week 0) and after (week 17) practice. Results: 80-89yr showed less ankle plantar/dorsiflexion and hip abduction peak torques (p = 0.003, p < 0.001, p = 0.001), and a greater ankle plantar/dorsiflexion kinesthesia (p < 0.001, p = 0.002) than 60-69yr and 70-79yr. Greater ankle plantar/dorsiflexion and hip abduction torques (p = 0.011, p < 0.001, p = 0.045), improved arch and heel tactile sensation (p = 0.040, p = 0.009), and lower knee flexion/extension kinesthesia (p < 0.001, p = 0.044) were observed at week 17. The significant group*practice interaction for the fifth metatarsal head tactile sensation (p = 0.027), ankle plantar/dorsiflexion kinesthesia (p < 0.001, p = 0.004), and the CoP-RMS in the mediolateral direction (p = 0.047) only in 80-89yr revealed greater improvement at week 17. Conclusion: Tai Chi practice increased strength, tactile sensation, kinesthesia, and static postural control among older adults. Tai Chi practice improved tactile, kinesthesia sensations, and static postural control among older adults over 80, who presented with worse strength and kinesthesia than their younger counterparts. Tai Chi practice offers a safe exercise option for those aged over 80 to encourage improvements in sensorimotor control.

The impact of mindfulness on nurses' perceived professional benefits: the mediating roles of workplace spirituality and work-life balance.

This study delves into the effects of mindfulness on workplace spirituality, work-life balance, and perceived professional benefits among nurses operating in the high-pressure environments of hospitals in Jiangxi Province, China. Utilizing a robust sample of 303 valid questionnaires and employing partial least squares (PLS) analysis, the research uncovers a significant positive relationship between mindfulness and workplace spirituality. Furthermore, it demonstrates how both workplace spirituality and work-life balance serve as crucial mediators in enhancing nurses' perception of their professional benefits. The findings illuminate the potential of mindfulness training in substantially elevating job satisfaction and reducing burnout among nurses. The study not only reinforces the value of mindfulness in the healthcare sector but also advocates for its integration into professional development programs and healthcare policies. By doing so, it aims to bolster the overall wellbeing and professional effectiveness of nurses facing the myriad challenges inherent in demanding healthcare environments. This study contributes to the growing discourse on mindfulness in occupational settings, highlighting its pivotal role in enhancing both the personal wellbeing and professional capabilities of healthcare professionals.

Vegetable Extracts as Therapeutic Agents: A Comprehensive Exploration of Anti-Allergic Effects.

Food allergies are common worldwide and have become a major public health concern; more than 220 million people are estimated to suffer from food allergies worldwide. On the other hand, polyphenols, phenolic substances found in plants, have attracted attention for their health-promoting functions, including their anti-allergic effects. In this study, we examined the potential inhibitory effects of 80% ethanol extracts from 22 different vegetables on the degranulation process in RBL-2H3 cells. Our aim was to identify vegetables that could prevent and treat type I allergic diseases. We found strong inhibition of degranulation by extracts of perilla and chives. Furthermore, we verified the respective efficacy via animal experiments, which revealed that the anaphylactic symptoms caused by ovalbumin (OVA) load were alleviated in OVA allergy model mice that ingested vegetable extracts of perilla and chives. These phenomena were suggested to be caused by induction of suppression in the expression of subunits that constitute the high-affinity IgE receptor, particularly the α-chain of FcεR I. Notably, the anti-allergic effects of vegetables that can be consumed daily are expected to result in the discovery of new anti-immediate allergenic drugs based on the components of these vegetables.

Effects of the elongated needling combined with routine acupuncture therapy in the patients with post-stroke hemiplegia and central pain： a randomized controlled trial. / èŠ’é’ˆé€åˆºè”åˆä½“é’ˆæ²»ç–—å¯¹ä¸­é£ŽåŽåç˜«ä¼´ä¸­æž¢æ€§ç–¼ç—›æ‚£è€ çš„ä¸´åºŠç–—æ•ˆè§‚å¯Ÿï¼šéšæœºå¯¹ç §è¯•éªŒ.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of the elongated needling at the points of hand and foot yang meridians and the Governor Vessel combined with the routine acupuncture therapy on pain, balance function and muscle strength of the patients with post-stroke hemiplegia and central post-stroke pain (CPSP), and to investigate whether its therapeutic mechanism is related to antioxidant damage. METHODS: Ninety-four patients with post-stroke hemiplegia and CPSP admitted from March 2020 to September 2021 were divided into a trial group (47 cases, 1 cases dropped out) and a control group (47 cases 3 cases dropped out). In the control group, the rehabilitation exercise combined with routine acupuncture therapy was used, and in the trial group, on the base of the treatment as the control group, the elongated needling at the points of hand and foot yang meridians and the Governor Vessel was supplemented. In the two groups, the treatment was given once daily, and 1 course of treatment was composed of 14 days, a total of 6 courses were required in the trial. Separately, before treatment, and 1, 2 and 3 months after treatment, between two groups, the score of visual analogue scale (VAS) and that of Berg balance scale (BBS), as well as muscle strength were compared；the neural function was evaluated using the national institutes of health stroke scale (NIHSS) and the serum contents of nitricoxide synthase (NOS), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were detected by ELISA in the patients. RESULTS: Compared with those before treatment, VAS score and NIHSS score were all decreased (P<0.05) in the trial and the control group after 1 month, 2 months and 3 months of treatment, and BBS score was increased (P<0.05)；and the case proportion of muscle strength grade 4 and 5 was higher (P<0.05) in the trial group. In the control group, the proportion of grade 4 increased after treatment for 2 months (P<0.05), and that of grade 4 and 5 increased after treatment for 3 months (P<0.05). The serum contents of NOS and SOD were increased (P<0.05), and MDA was decreased (P<0.05) after 3 months of treatment in the two groups. In comparison with the control group at the same time point, VAS score and NIHSS score were lower (P<0.05), BBS score higher (P<0.05) and the muscle strength grade was improved (P<0.05, P<0.01) after 1, 2 and 3 months of treatment, respectively；and the serum contents of NOS and SOD increased (P<0.05), and MDA decreased (P<0.05) after 3 months of treatment in the trial group. CONCLUSIONS: The elongated needling at the points of hand and foot yang meridians and the Governor Vessel, combined with the routine acupuncture therapy alleviates CPSP, improves balance and muscle strength and promotes the recovery of neural function in the patients with post-stroke hemiplegia, the mechanism may be related to antioxidant damage.

Acquired hypothalamic obesity: A clinical overview and update.

Hypothalamic obesity (HO) is a rare and complex disorder that confers substantial morbidity and excess mortality. HO is a unique subtype of obesity characterized by impairment in the key brain pathways that regulate energy intake and expenditure, autonomic nervous system function, and peripheral hormonal signalling. HO often occurs in the context of hypothalamic syndrome, a constellation of symptoms that follow from disruption of hypothalamic functions, for example, temperature regulation, sleep-wake circadian control, and energy balance. Genetic forms of HO, including the monogenic obesity syndromes, often impact central leptin-melanocortin pathways. Acquired forms of HO occur as a result of tumours impacting the hypothalamus, such as craniopharyngioma, surgery or radiation to treat those tumours, or other forms of hypothalamic damage, such as brain injury impacting the region. Risk for severe obesity following hypothalamic injury is increased with larger extent of hypothalamic damage or lesions that contain the medial and posterior hypothalamic nuclei that support melanocortin signalling pathways. Structural damage in these hypothalamic nuclei often leads to hyperphagia, central insulin and leptin resistance, decreased sympathetic activity, low energy expenditure, and increased energy storage in adipose tissue, the collective effect of which is rapid weight gain. Individuals with hyperphagia are perpetually hungry. They do not experience fullness at the end of a meal, nor do they feel satiated after meals, leading them to consume larger and more frequent meals. To date, most efforts to treat HO have been disappointing and met with limited, if any, long-term success. However, new treatments based on the distinct pathophysiology of disturbed energy homeostasis in acquired HO may hold promise for the future.

Influence of the pilates method on postural balance parameters in older women: An exploratory single-arm trial.

BACKGROUND: Human aging is a natural, biological, progressive, dynamic and complex process that involves morphological, physiological and social changes. Alterations such as decreased postural balance increase the risk of falls and exercise has shown benefits. One of the possible exercise modalities for this population is Pilates. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of Pilates on parameters of static and dynamic postural balance in older women. METHODS: Women aged 60 years or over were evaluated at three time points (pre-training, mid-training, and post-training). Postural balance was assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), the Timed Up and Go test (TUG), and a force platform. The Pilates exercise protocol consisted of 16 sessions, twice a week, lasting 50 min each. Normality of the data was determined by the Shapiro-Wilk test. Repeated measures ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni post hoc test was used for comparison between assessments. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: Fourteen older women were included. Assessment on the force platform revealed no significant differences for most of the variables evaluated. There was a significant difference in SPPB scores and TUG times pre- and post-treatment (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Pilates training significantly improved dynamic postural balance evaluated by the TUG and SPPB but did not significantly improve static balance evaluated by the force platform, although the values have decreased in most assessments.

Unilateral dynamic balance assessment: The test-retest reliability of the OptoJump next drift protocol.

BACKGROUND: The OptoJump Next Drift Protocol is a test designed to assess unilateral dynamic balance. Participants are required to perform a series of unilateral jumps from which left/right and forward/back displacement (Drift) is calculated. OBJECTIVES: This investigation set out to establish the test-retest reliability of the OptoJump Next Drift Protocol. METHOD: Twenty-six participants performed the OptoJump Next Drift Protocol on two separate occasions. Drift Area and Drift Area as a percentage of total available jump area were calculated for each leg. RESULTS: Interclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) indicated poor reliability for Drift Area and Drift Area as a percentage of total available jump area (right leg r = .44; left leg r = -0.20). However, 95% Limits of Agreement (LoA) suggested a stronger relationship. For Drift Area, between trial Mean Difference for the right leg was 50.87 cm2 (95% LoA = -227.57 - 328.87) and for the left leg it was 54.08 cm2 (95% LoA = -333.62 - 441.79). For Drift Area as a percentage of total available jump area, Mean Difference for the right leg was 0.56% (95% LoA = -2.44 - 3.65) and for left 0.60% (95% LoA = - 3.76-4.89). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the 95% LoA data, the authors suggest that the OptoJump Next Drift Protocol does offer an acceptable level of reliability.

The impacts of exercise training programs on balance in children with hearing loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE: According to the prevalence of balance disorders among children with hearing loss (HL), researchers used exercise programs to improve balance in children with HL. So, the present systematic review and meta-analysis briefly summarize findings regarding the impacts of exercise training programs on balance in children with HL. METHODS: Science Direct, MEDLINE/PubMed, SCOPUS, LILACS, CINAHL, CENTRAL, Web of Science, PEDro, and Google Scholar were searched from inception until November 11th, 2023. Two independent researchers analyzed and extracted the data from potential papers whose eligibility was confirmed. Then, the PEDro scale was used to obtain quality assessment scores. The total PEDro score is 11 and incorporates the presentation of statistical analysis and evaluation criteria of internal validity. Studies that scored 7-11 were considered methodologically "high", 5 to 6 were "fair", and ≤4 were considered "poor". RESULTS: 10 studies involving a total of 304 participations were included in the systematic review. Our results demonstrate that exercise training programs positively impact static balance (p = 0.001) with level 1a evidence, the postural sway (p = 0.001) with level 1a evidence, and dynamic balance (p = 0.001) with level 1a evidence in children with HL. CONCLUSION: The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis related to studies with excellent methodological quality revealed that the intended training programs significantly impact postural sway along with static and dynamic balance in children with HL. It is recommended that future exercise training programs be paired with rehabilitation programs for children with HL.

Does an outdoor virtual environment projected in a head-mounted display affect balance in healthy young adults?

BACKGROUND: Virtual reality head-mounted display (VR-HMD) is increasingly used for balance evaluation and rehabilitation. However, more studies must be conducted on virtual environments (VE) effects. This study aimed to assess the impact of an outdoor VE projected in a high-quality VR-HMD and of the VR-HMD mass on postural stability, postural control and leaning. METHODS: This study involved ten healthy young men who performed five 30-s stabilometric trials. Four experimental conditions were randomly performed: eyes open (EO) or eyes closed (EC), with (VR) or without (No VR) VR-HMD. Postural stability (antero-posterior (AP) and medio-lateral (ML) ranges of the center of pressure (CoP), 90% confidence ellipse area), postural control (CoP velocity (global, AP and ML)) and standard deviation of the CoP mean position), and postural leaning (AP/ML CoP mean position) were assessed. The comparisons between EO VR and EO No VR were used to analyze the VE effects and comparisons between EC VR and EC No VR for the VR-HMD mass effects. RESULTS: Spatiotemporal parameters that characterised postural stability and postural control, except ML velocity (p > 0.05), were significantly influenced by the simulated VE with higher values in EO VR than EO No VR (p < 0.05), but not by the VR-HMD mass. The mean position of the CoP showed no significant differences between conditions. SIGNIFICANCE: Postural stability and postural control modification due to the VE used in this study revealed that this VE could be interesting for VR-HMD rehabilitation and assessment. VR-HMD is not a factor to be considered for stabilometric analysis.

Perspectiva holística en salud: la contribución de la Homeopatía / Holistic Perspective in Health: The Contribution of Homeopathy

En el panorama de la salud, el cuerpo humano, en su estado natural, se revela como una intrincada unidad que opera en armonía para mantener el equilibrio dinámico. Sin embargo, esta homeostasis puede verse afectada, dando lugar a la dualidad y a trastornos que comprometen la estabilidad vital. Este artículo propone una reflexión sobre la perspectiva homeopática, destacando su enfoque único en comparación con la medicina convencional. Diferenciándose al tratar al individuo como un todo integrado, la Homeopatía reconoce la transitoriedad de la dualidad representada por las enfermedades y enfatiza la importancia de la armonía entre el cuerpo y la mente en la búsqueda de la homeostasis. Inspirada en las ideas de Hahnemann, la Homeopatía se destaca por su visión holística, rechazando el dualismo estricto y proponiendo intervenciones que van más allá de la supresión de los síntomas. Anclada en la ley de los similares, busca sustancias que reproduzcan los síntomas del paciente en un estado saludable, buscando una cura profunda y la restauración de la unidad dinámica del organismo. A pesar de los desafíos, como la resistencia y la falta de métodos de investigación universalmente aceptados, la Homeopatía persiste a nivel mundial, sugiriendo un valor único. Este artículo promueve una reflexión sobre el enfoque homeopático, enfatizando su contribución a la comprensión de la salud y su papel en el panorama terapéutico.

n the landscape of health, the human body, in its natural state, reveals itself as an intricate unity, operating harmoniously to maintain dynamic balance. However, this homeostasis can be disrupted, leading to duality and disturbances that compromise vital stability. This article reflects on the homeopathic perspective, highlighting its unique approach compared to conventional medicine. Distinguishing itself by treating the individual as an integrated whole, homeopathy recognizes the transience of duality represented by diseases and emphasizes the importance of harmony between body and mind in the pursuit of homeostasis.Inspired by Hahnemann's ideas, homeopathy stands out for its holistic view, rejecting strict dualism and proposing interventions that go beyond symptom suppression. Anchored in the Law of Similars, it seeks substances that would reproduce the patient's symptoms in a healthy state, aiming for a profound cure and the restoration of the dynamic unity of the organism. Despite challenges, such as resistance and a lack of universally accepted research methods, homeopathy persists globally, suggesting unique value. This article encourages reflection on the homeopathic approach, emphasizing