Demandas clínicas e intervenções de enfermagem em consultas gerontológicas: Revisão integrativa / Demandas Clínicas e intervenciones de Enfermería en consultas gerontológicas: Una revisión integrativa / Clinical demands and nursing interventions in gerontological consultations: An integrative review

Resumen Introdução: A criação de guias que unificam as demandas clínicas prevalentes em consultas de enfermagem gerontológica e, das suas respectivas intervenções, se faz presente, devido a heterogeneidade das patologias emergentes no processo de envelhecimento, que irão precisar de cuidados. Objetivo: Identificar as demandas clínicas em consultas de enfermagem gerontológica e, as intervenções implementadas pelos(as) enfermeiros(as). Método: Revisão integrativa de pesquisas originais, publicadas entre 2018 e 2022, em inglês, espanhol e português, disponíveis nas bases de dados Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed, BIREME/LILACS/BDENF/IBECS/BVS, SciELO e Google Scholar, pelos descritores DeCS/MESH: "Idoso"; "Enfermagem no Consultório"; "Enfermagem Geriátrica" e "Geriatria". O Rating System for the Hierarchy of Evidence for Intervention foi usado para determinar o nível de evidência da amostra final. Foram excluídos editoriais, estudos de revisão e artigos duplicados. A análise dos dados se deu pela leitura analítica e interpretativa, guiadas por um checklist. Resultados: Oito artigos foram selecionados e trouxeram demandas clínica tais como: o déficit no autocuidado para banho; autonegligência; fadiga; risco de integridade da pele prejudicada; desesperança; tristeza e depressão. As intervenções se relacionaram ao incentivo ao autocuidado; otimização dos medicamentos; estímulo a atividade física; cuidados com a pele; aconselhamento; musicoterapia e reabilitação psicossocial. Conclusão: Demandas clínicas atendidas nas consultas de enfermagem gerontológica possuem grande variação, com prevalência no domínio atividade/repouso, tais como intervenções voltadas para o tratamento e prevenção de doenças e ações visando a promoção da saúde, tendo o domínio comportamental mais expressivo.

Resumen Introducción: La creación de guías que unifiquen las demandas clínicas prevalentes en las consultas de enfermería gerontológica y sus respectivas intervenciones es necesaria, debido a la heterogeneidad de patologías emergentes en el proceso de envejecimiento que requerirán cuidados. Objetivo: Identificar las demandas clínicas en las consultas de enfermería gerontológica y las intervenciones implementadas por el personal de enfermería. Método: Revisión integrativa de investigaciones originales, publicadas entre 2018 y 2022, en inglés, español y portugués, en las bases de datos Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed, BIREME/LILACS/BDENF/IBECS/BVS, SciELO y Google Scholar. Se utilizaron los descriptores DeCS/MESH: "Idoso"; "Enfermagem no Consultório"; "Enfermagem Geriátrica" e "Geriatria". Para determinar el nivel de evidencia de la muestra final, se usó el Rating System for the Hierarchy of Evidence for Intervention. Además, se excluyeron los editoriales, los estudios de revisión y los artículos duplicados. Los datos se analizaron mediante lectura analítica e interpretativa, guiada por una lista de verificación. Resultados: Se seleccionaron ocho artículos que aportaron demandas clínicas como déficit en el autocuidado para el baño, autodescuido, fatiga, riesgo integridad de la piel perjudicada; desesperanza, tristeza y depresión. Las intervenciones estaban orientadas al fomento del autocuidado, la optimización de la medicación, el fomento de la actividad física, el cuidado de la piel, el asesoramiento, la musicoterapia y la rehabilitación psicosocial. Conclusión: Las demandas clínicas atendidas en las consultas de enfermería gerontológica son muy variadas, con predominio en el dominio actividad/reposo, como intervenciones dirigidas al tratamiento y prevención de enfermedades y acciones dirigidas a la promoción de la salud, siendo más expresivo el dominio conductual.

Abstract Introduction: The creation of guidelines that unify the prevalent clinical demands from gerontological nursing consultations and their corresponding interventions are necessary due to the heterogeneity of emerging pathologies in the aging process that will require nursing care. Objective: To identify clinical demands in gerontological nursing consultations and the interventions implemented by nurses. Method: An integrative review of original research published from 2018 and 2022, in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, in Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed, BIREME/lilacs/BDENF/IBECS/VHL, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases, using the DeCS/MESH descriptors: "Elderly", "Nursing in the Office", "Geriatric Nursing", and "Geriatrics". The Rating System for the Hierarchy of Evidence for Intervention was used to determine the level of evidence of the final sample. Editorials, review studies, and duplicate articles were excluded. The data were analyzed by analytical and interpretative reading, guided by a checklist. Results: Eight articles were selected that showed clinical demands such as deficits in self-care for bathing, self-negligence, fatigue, risk of damaged skin integrity, hopelessness, sadness, and depression. Interventions were related to encouraging self-care, medication optimization, encouragement of exercise, skin care, counseling, music therapy, and psychosocial rehabilitation. Conclusion: There are many different clinical demands in gerontological nursing consultations, especially associated with the domain of activity/rest. These include interventions to treat and prevent diseases, and actions aimed at health promotion, in most cases associated with the behavioral domain.

Pharmacotherapeutic potential of Vitis vinifera(grape) in age-related neurological diseases / Potencial farmacoterapéutico de Vitis vinifera(uva) en enfermedades neurológicas asociadas a la edad

Age-related neurological disorders (ANDs), including neurodegenerative diseases, are complex illnesses with an increasing risk with advancing years. The central nervous system's neuropathological conditions, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and protein misfolding, are what define ANDs. Due to the rise in age-dependent prevalence, efforts have been made to combat ANDs. Vitis viniferahas a long history of usageto treat a variety of illness symptoms. Because multiple ligand sites may be targeted, Vitis viniferacomponents can be employed to treat ANDs. This is demonstrated by the link between the structure and action of these compounds. This review demonstrates that Vitis viniferaand its constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic compounds, stilbenoidsandaromatic acids, are effective at reducing the neurological symptoms and pathological conditions of ANDs. This is done by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. The active Vitis vinifera ingredients have therapeutic effects on ANDs, as this review explains.

Las enfermedades neurológicas asociadas a la edad (AND, por su sigla en inglés) incluyendo las enfermedades neurodegenerativas, son enfermedades complejas con un riesgo creciente con la edad. Las condiciones neuropatológicas del sistema nervioso central, que incluyen el estrés oxidativo, la neuro inflamación, y el plegado erróneo de proteínas, son lo que define las AND. Debido al aumento en la prevalencia dependiente de la edad, se han hecho esfuerzos para combatir las AND. Vitis vinifera tiene una larga historia de uso para el tratamiento de síntomas. Puesto que puede hacer objetivo a muchos sitios ligando, los componentes de Vitis viniferase pueden utilizar para tratar AND. Esto se demuestra por el vínculo entre la estructura y la acción de estos compuestos. Esta revisión demuestra que la Vitis viniferay sus constituyentes, incluídos los flavonoides, componentes fenólicos, estilbenoides, y ácidos aromáticos, son efectivos para reducir los síntomas neurológicos y las condiciones patológicas de AND. Esto se produce por su acción como antioxidante y antiinflamatorio. Los ingredientes activos de Vitis vinifera tienen efectos terapéuticos en AND, y esta revisión lo explica.

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)

Mechanistic insights and emerging therapeutic stratagems for Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD), a multi-factorial neurodegenerative disorder has affected over 30 million individuals globally and these numbers are expected to increase in the coming decades. Current therapeutic interventions are largely ineffective as they focus on a single target. Development of an effective drug therapy requires a deep understanding of the various factors influencing the onset and progression of the disease. Aging and genetic factors exert a major influence on the development of AD. Other factors like post-viral infections, iron overload, gut dysbiosis, and vascular dysfunction also exacerbate the onset and progression of AD. Further, post-translational modifications in tau, DRP1, CREB, and p65 proteins increase the disease severity through triggering mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic loss, and differential interaction of amyloid beta with different receptors leading to impaired intracellular signalling. With advancements in neuroscience tools, new inter-relations that aggravate AD are being discovered including pre-existing diseases and exposure to other pathogens. Simultaneously, new therapeutic strategies involving modulation of gene expression through targeted delivery or modulation with light, harnessing the immune response to promote clearance of amyloid deposits, introduction of stem cells and extracellular vesicles to replace the destroyed neurons, exploring new therapeutic molecules from plant, marine and biological sources delivered in the free state or through nanoparticles and use of non-pharmacological interventions like music, transcranial stimulation and yoga. Polypharmacology approaches involving combination of therapeutic agents are also under active investigation for superior therapeutic outcomes. This review elaborates on various disease-causing factors, their underlying mechanisms, the inter-play between different disease-causing players, and emerging therapeutic options including those under clinical trials, for treatment of AD. The challenges involved in AD therapy and the way forward have also been discussed.

Antioxidant and Anti-Fatigue Effects of a Standardized Botanical Extract Fraction (HemoHIM) in Forced-Exercised Aged Mice.

HemoHIM is a standardized medicinal herbal preparation consisting of extracts of Angelica gigas Nakai, Cnidium officinale Makino, and Paeonia lactiflora Pallas that possesses immune regulatory activities. This study aimed to research the potential antioxidant effects of HemoHIM and its capacity for reducing fatigue in aged mice subjected to forced exercise. After administering HemoHIM 125 (500 mg/kg orally) for 4 weeks in 8-month-old female C57BL/6 mice (4 groups of 10 mice), various parameters were evaluated. The analyses revealed that HemoHIM enhanced swimming time and grip strength. In addition, it significantly reduced serum lactate levels and increased liver glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels after exercise challenge. The expression levels of antioxidant enzymes and factors, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf-2), heme oxygenase 1, superoxide dismutase, GPx, and glutathione reductase, were significantly higher in liver and muscle tissues of mice treated with HemoHIM. These results indicate that HemoHIM might function as an anti-fatigue and antioxidant agent by modulating the Nrf-2 signaling pathway.

Psychoneuroimmunology in multiple myeloma and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant: Opportunities for research among patients and caregivers.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable cancer and is the leading indication for autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). To be eligible for HSCT, a patient must have a caregiver, as caregivers play a central role in HSCT preparation and recovery. MM patients remain on treatment indefinitely, and thus patients and their caregivers face long-term challenges including the intensity of HSCT and perpetual therapy after transplant. Importantly, both patients and their caregivers show heightened depressive and anxiety symptoms, with dyadic correspondence evidenced and caregivers' distress often exceeding that of patients. An extensive psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) literature links distress with health via immune and neuroendocrine dysregulation as well as biological aging. However, data on PNI in the context of multiple myeloma - in patients or caregivers - are remarkably limited. Distress in MM patients has been associated with poorer outcomes including higher inflammation, greater one year post-HSCT hospital readmissions, and worse overall survival. Further, anxiety and depression are linked to biological aging and may contribute to the poor long-term health of both patients and caregivers. Because MM generally affects older adults, individual differences in biological aging may represent an important modifier of MM biology and HSCT treatment outcomes. There are a number of clinical scenarios in which biologically younger people could be prescribed more intensive therapies, with potential for greater benefit, by using a personalized cancer therapy approach based on the quantification of physiologic reserve. Further, despite considerable psychological demands, the effects of distress on health among MM caregivers is largely unexamined. Within this context, the current critical review highlights gaps in knowledge at the intersection of HSCT, inflammation, and biological aging in the context of MM. Research in this area hold promise for opportunities for novel and impactful psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) research to enhance health outcomes, quality of life, and longevity among both MM patients and their caregivers.

Ameliorative effect of bofutsushosan (Fangfengtongshengsan) extract on the progression of aging-induced obesity.

This study aimed to compare fat accumulation in young and aged mice raised on a high-fat diet and to characterize the obesity-reducing effects of a Kampo medicine, bofutsushosan (BTS; fangfengtongshengsan in Chinese). Aged mice fed a high-fat diet containing 2% BTS extract for 28 days exhibited a significant reduction in weight gain and accumulation of visceral and subcutaneous fat, which were greater degree of reduction than those of the young mice. When the treatment period was extended to two months, the serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels and the accumulation of fat droplets in the hepatocytes decreased. The mRNA expression of mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in the brown adipose tissue was significantly reduced in the aged mice compared to the young mice but increased by 2% in the BTS-treated aged mice. Additionally, the effect of BTS extract on oleic acid-albumin-induced triglyceride accumulation in hepatoblastoma-derived HepG2 cells was significantly inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner. Evaluation of the single crude drug extracts revealed that Forsythia Fruit, Schizonepeta Spike, and Rhubarb were the active components in BTS extract. These results suggest that BTS extract is effective against visceral, subcutaneous, and ectopic fats in the liver, which tend to accumulate with aging. Thus, BTS extract is useful in preventing and ameliorating the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome.

A Psychoneuroimmunological Reading of Jane Austen's Persuasion in the Context of Bodily Aging.

Jane Austen normally avoids discussing appearance throughout her works. Persuasion constitutes the exception to the rule, as the story focuses on the premature aging experienced by her protagonist, Anne Elliot, seemingly due to disappointed love. Much has been written about Anne's "loss of bloom," but never from the perspective of psychoneuroimmunology, the field that researches the interrelation between psychological processes and the nervous and immune systems. In this paper, we adopt a perspective of psychoneuroimmunology to argue that Austen established a connection between psychological distress, specifically lovesickness, and the development of early senescence signs, and vice versa, since the recovery of love is associated with happiness and physical glow. From a gender perspective, we discuss how Austen brightly reflected these interrelationships through the story of Anne, when the latest psychoneuroimmunological research has actually shown that women age earlier than men as a consequence of psychological turmoil.

Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharide ameliorates skeletal muscle aging via mitochondria-associated membrane-mediated calcium homeostasis regulation.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia, an age-related disease, is characterized by a gradual loss of muscle mass, strength, and function. It has been linked to abnormal organelle function in myotubes, including the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Recent studies revealed that mitochondria-associated membranes (MAM), the sites connecting mitochondria and the ER, may be implicated in skeletal muscle aging. In this arena, the potential of Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharide (PSP) emerges as a beacon of hope. PSP, with its remarkable antioxidant and anti-senescence properties, is on the cusp of a therapeutic revolution, offering a promising strategy to mitigate the impacts of sarcopenia. PURPOSE: The objective of this research is to explore the effects of PSP on age-related muscle dysfunction and the underlying mechanisms involved both in vivo and in vitro. METHODS: In this investigation, we used in vitro experiments using D-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging in C2C12 myotubes and in vivo experiments on aged mice. Key indices were assessed, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial function, the expression of aging-related markers, and the key proteins of mitochondria and MAM fraction. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to mitochondria and ER were identified, and bioinformatic analyses were performed to explore underlying mechanisms. Muscle mass and function were determined to evaluate the quantity and quality of skeletal muscle in vivo. RESULTS: PSP treatment effectively mitigated oxidative stress and mitochondrial malfunction caused by D-gal in C2C12 myotubes, preserving mitochondrial fitness and reducing MAM formation. Besides, PSP attenuated D-gal-induced increases in Ca2+ concentrations intracellularly by modulating the calcium-related proteins, which were also confirmed by gene ontology (GO) analysis of DEGs. In aged mice, PSP increased muscle mass and improved grip strength, hanging time, and other parameters while reducing ROS levels and increasing antioxidant enzyme activities in skeletal muscle tissue. CONCLUSION: PSP offers protection against age-associated muscle impairments. The proposed mechanism suggests that modulation of calcium homeostasis via regulation of the MAM results in a favorable functional outcome during skeletal muscle aging. The results of this study highlight the prospect of PSP as a curative intervention for sarcopenia and affiliated pathological conditions, warranting further investigation.

Nutrition and Aging in Dogs and Cats.

Aging is often associated with chronic inflammation and declining health. Both veterinarians and owners of aging dogs and cats are interested in nutritional solutions and strategies to prevent signs of age-related disease, increase longevity, and improve quality of life. Physiological decreases in muscle mass, decreased immunity, and a decrease in sense acuity are some of the changes often seen in otherwise healthy senior pets; however, there may also be an increase in risk for pathologies such as renal, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neoplastic diseases. Aging may also lead to cognitive decline and even cognitive dysfunction. Some nutritional strategies that may be helpful with the prevention and treatment of age-related diseases include supplementation with ω3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidant nutrients that can help modulate inflammation and benefit osteoarthritis, renal disease, cancer, and more. Supplementation with medium-chain triglycerides shows promise in the treatment of canine cognitive dysfunction as these may be metabolized to ketone bodies that are utilized as an alternative energy source for the central nervous system. Additionally, a high intake of dietary phosphorus in soluble and bioavailable forms can lead to renal disease, which is of greater concern in senior pets. There are no published guidelines for nutritional requirements specific to senior pets and as a result, products marketed for senior dogs and cats are highly variable.

A combination nutritional supplement reduces DNA methylation age only in older adults with a raised epigenetic age.

An increase in systemic inflammation (inflammaging) is one of the hallmarks of aging. Epigenetic (DNA methylation) clocks can quantify the degree of biological aging and this can be reversed by lifestyle and pharmacological intervention. We aimed to investigate whether a multi-component nutritional supplement could reduce systemic inflammation and epigenetic age in healthy older adults.We recruited 80 healthy older participants (mean age ± SD: 71.85 ± 6.23; males = 31, females = 49). Blood and saliva were obtained pre and post a 12-week course of a multi-component supplement, containing: Vitamin B3, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Omega 3 fish oils, Resveratrol, Olive fruit phenols and Astaxanthin. Plasma GDF-15 and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations were quantified as markers of biological aging and inflammation respectively. DNA methylation was assessed in whole blood and saliva and used to derive epigenetic age using various clock algorithms.No difference between the epigenetic and chronological ages of participants was observed pre- and post-treatment by the blood-based Horvath or Hannum clocks, or the saliva-based InflammAge clock. However, in those with epigenetic age acceleration of ≥ 2 years at baseline, a significant reduction in epigenetic age (p = 0.015) and epigenetic age acceleration (p = 0.0058) was observed post-treatment using the saliva-based InflammAge clock. No differences were observed pre- and post-treatment in plasma GDF-15 and CRP, though participants with CRP indicative of an elevated cardiovascular disease risk (hsCRP ≥ 3µg/ml), had a reduction in CRP post-supplementation (p = 0.0195).Our data suggest a possible benefit of combined nutritional supplementation in individuals with an accelerated epigenetic age and inflammaging.

Transcriptomic analysis to identify genes associated with hypothalamus vulnerability in aging mice with cognitive decline.

The normal aging process is accompanied by cognitive decline, and previous studies have indicated the crucial role of the hypothalamus in regulating both aging and cognition. However, the precise molecular mechanism underlying this relationship remains unclear. Therefore, this present study aimed to identify potential predictors of cognitive decline associated with aging specifically within the hypothalamus. To achieve this, we employed Morris water maze (MWM) testing to assess learning and memory differences between young and aged mice. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing was conducted on the hypothalamus of young and aged mice to identify potential genes. Subsequently, GO and KEGG analyses were performed to investigate the functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and their associated biological pathways. Finally, the results obtained from sequencing analysis were further validated using qRT-PCR. Notably, MWM testing revealed a significant decrease in spatial learning and memory ability among aged mice. According to KEGG analysis, the DEGs primarily encompassed various biochemical signaling pathways related to immune system (e.g., C3; C4b; Ccl2; Ccl7; Cebpb; Clec7a; Col3a1; Cxcl10; Cxcl2; Fosb; Fosl1; Gbp5; H2-Ab1; Hspa1a; Hspa1b; Icam1; Il1b; Itga5; Itgax; Lilrb4a; Plaur; Ptprc; Serpine1; Tnfrsf10b; Tnfsf10), neurodegenerative disease (e.g., Atp2a1; Creb5; Fzd10; Hspa1a; Hspa1b; Il1b; Kcnj10; Nxf3; Slc6a3; Tubb6; Uba1y; Wnt9b), nervous system function (e.g., Chrna4; Chrna6; Creb5; Slc6a3),and aging (e.g., Creb5; Hspa1a; Hspa1b) among others. These identified genes may serve as potential predictors for cognitive function in elderly individuals and will provide a crucial foundation for further exploration into the underlying molecular mechanisms.

In Vitro and In Vivo Insights into a Broccoli Byproduct as a Healthy Ingredient for the Management of Alzheimer's Disease and Aging through Redox Biology.

Broccoli has gained popularity as a highly consumed vegetable due to its nutritional and health properties. This study aimed to evaluate the composition profile and the antioxidant capacity of a hydrophilic extract derived from broccoli byproducts, as well as its influence on redox biology, Alzheimer's disease markers, and aging in the Caenorhabditis elegans model. The presence of glucosinolate was observed and antioxidant capacity was demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro acetylcholinesterase inhibitory capacity was quantified, and the treatment ameliorated the amyloid-ß- and tau-induced proteotoxicity in transgenic strains via SOD-3 and SKN-1, respectively, and HSP-16.2 for both parameters. Furthermore, a preliminary study on aging indicated that the extract effectively reduced reactive oxygen species levels in aged worms and extended their lifespan. Utilizing broccoli byproducts for nutraceutical or functional foods could manage vegetable processing waste, enhancing productivity and sustainability while providing significant health benefits.

ß-Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation prolongs the lifespan of prematurely aged mice and protects colon function in ageing mice.

Ageing is defined as the degeneration of physiological functions in numerous tissues and organs of an organism, which occurs with age. As we age, the gut undergoes a series of changes and weaknesses that may contribute to overall ageing. Emerging evidence suggests that ß-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) plays a role in regulating intestinal function, but there is still a lack of literature on its role in maintaining the colon health of ageing mice. In our research, Zmpste24-/- mice proved that NMN prolonged their life span and delayed senescence. This study was designed to investigate the effects of long-term intervention on regulating colon function in ageing mice. Our results indicated that NMN improved the pathology of intestinal epithelial cells and intestinal permeability by upregulating the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins and the number of goblet cells, increasing the release of anti-inflammatory factors, and increasing beneficial intestinal bacteria. NMN increased the expression of the proteins SIRT1, NMNAT2, and NMNAT3 and decreased the expression of the protein P53. It also regulated the activity of ISCs by increasing Wnt/ß-catenin and Lgr5. Our findings also revealed that NMN caused a significant increase in the relative abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacterium pseudolongum and notable differences in metabolic pathways related to choline metabolism in cancer. In summary, NMN supplementation can delay frailty in old age, aid healthy ageing, and delay gut ageing.

Effects of moxibustion at "Zusanli" (ST 36) on oxidative stress and intestinal flora in aging rats. / 艾灸"足三里"å¯¹è¡°è€å¤§é¼ æ°§åŒ–åº”æ¿€å’Œè‚ é“èŒç¾¤çš„å½±å“.

OBJECTIVES: To observe the effects of moxibustion at "Zusanli"(ST 36)on oxidative stress and intestinal flora in subacute aging rats, and to explore the possible mechanism of moxibustion in delaying aging. METHODS: Thirty SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group and a Zusanli group, with 10 rats in each group. Subacute aging model was established by intraperitoneal injection of D-galactose at dosage of 500 mg/kg in the model group and the Zusanli group, once a day for 42 days. In the Zusanli group, moxibustion was applied at bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36) , once a day, 3 moxa cones at each acupoint, for consecutive 28 days. After intervention, the serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were detected by ELISA; the intestinal flora was detected by 16S rRNA sequencing technique in each group. RESULTS: Compared with the blank group, the serum level of SOD was decreased (P<0.01), the serum level of MDA was increased (P<0.01) in the model group. Compared with the model group, the serum level of SOD was increased (P<0.01), the serum level of MDA was decreased (P<0.01) in the Zusanli group. Compared with the blank group, Chao1 and Shannon indexes were decreased in the model group (P<0.01, P<0.05). Compared with the model group, Chao1 and Shannon indexes were increased in the Zusanli group (P<0.01, P<0.05). Compared with the blank group, the relative abundance of Firmicutes, Treponema_2 and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group was increased (P<0.05, P<0.01), while the relative abundance of Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 and the relative abundance ratio of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes (B/F value) were decreased (P<0.01, P<0.05) in the model group. Compared with the model group, the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Treponema_2 was decreased (P<0.01), while the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, Lactobacillus, Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 and B/F value were increased (P<0.05, P<0.01) in the Zusanli group. CONCLUSIONS: Moxibustion at "Zusanli"(ST 36)can effectively improve the level of oxidative stress, regulate the constitution of intestinal flora, maintain the microecological balance of intestinal flora in aging rats, and thus play a role in delaying aging.

A Blended Vitamin Supplement Improves Spatial Cognitive and Short-Term Memory in Aged Mice.

Although many types of antioxidant supplements are available, the effect is greater if multiple types are taken simultaneously rather than one type. However, it is difficult to know which type and how much to take, as it is possible to take too many of some vitamins. As it is difficult for general consumers to make this choice, it is important to provide information based on scientific evidence. This study investigated the various effects of continuous administration of a blended supplement to aging mice. In 18-month-old C57BL/6 mice given a blended supplement ad libitum for 1 month, spatial cognition and short-term memory in the Morris water maze and Y-maze improved compared with the normal aged mice (spontaneous alternative ratio, normal aged mice, 49.5%, supplement-treated mice, 68.67%, p < 0.01). No significant differences in brain levels of secreted neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, were observed between these two groups. In treadmill durability tests before and after administration, the rate of increase in running distance after administration was significantly higher than that of the untreated group (increase rate, normal aged mice, 91.17%, supplement-treated aged mice, 111.4%, p < 0.04). However, training had no reinforcing effect, and post-mortem serum tests showed a significant decrease in aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total cholesterol values. These results suggest continuous intake of a blended supplement may improve cognitive function and suppress age-related muscle decline.

Nursing care in patients with dependency-related skin injuries in the community: a scoping review.

PURPOSE: Dependency-related skin injuries (DRSI) occur in people who need a high level of support to carry out day-to-day activities. Owing to the ageing population, the number of people at risk of DRSI is increasing. Most wound care is performed by nurses in the community. This scoping review aimed to identify the extent of literature on nursing care for patients with or at risk of developing DRSI living in their own home. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A scoping review was conducted. RESULTS: A total of 28 studies met the inclusion criteria and four main themes emerged: features of the community setting; wound types, causes and management; prevention strategies around aetiology and holistic care; care management and local wound care. CONCLUSION: Although most wounds occur in and are treated in the community, there is a paucity of research on wounds in this setting. The care of patients with DRSI in the community is complex and prevention according to the individual aetiology of each lesion is the key factor in wound care.

Anti-Aging in Caenorhabditis elegans of Polysaccharides from Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua.

Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua, the dried rhizome of Polygonum multiflorum from the Liliaceae family, is a widely used medicinal herb with a long history of application. Its main active ingredients are polysaccharides, which have been demonstrated in contemporary studies to effectively delay the aging process. In the present study, homogeneous polysaccharide (PCP-1) was obtained after the purification and isolation of polysaccharides from Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua (PCP). The anti-aging activities of both were compared, and the possible mechanism of action for exerting anti-aging activity was explored using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Research has indicated that PCP and PCP-1 exhibit potent anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties. Of particular note is that PCP-1 acts better than PCP. The two were able to prolong the lifespan of nematodes, improve the stress resistance of nematodes, reduce the accumulation of lipofuscin in the intestine, decrease the content of ROS and MDA in the body, increase the activity of the antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT, promote the nuclear translocation of DAF-16, down-regulate the mRNA levels of the age-1 and daf-2 genes of the IIS pathway in nematodes, and up-regulate the expression of the daf-16, skn-1, sod-3, and hsp-16.2 genes. Based on the aforementioned findings, it is possible that the mechanism by which PCP and PCP-1 exert anti-aging effects may be through negative regulation of the IIS pathway, activation of the transcription factor DAF-16/FOXO, and enhancement of oxidative defenses and stress resistance in nematodes. Overall, the present study illustrated the great potential of polysaccharides from Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua in anti-aging and antioxidant activities. Specifically, PCP-1 demonstrated superior characteristics, which provides a reference for the future development of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharides.

Aging Adults' Willingness, Preferences, and Access to Self-Hypnosis for Sleep: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Sleep disturbance is a public health problem among aging adults (age 45 and older). While aging adults are at an elevated risk for sleep disturbance, many also have high rates of mistrust toward psychological interventions, such as self-hypnosis, which may be beneficial for sleep. The purpose of the study was to assess factors that may impact utilization of self-hypnosis for sleep, including willingness, preferences, and access among informed aging adults. 244 aging adults were recruited. After reading an information sheet on self-hypnosis for sleep, participants completed questionnaires assessing sleep related worry, stress, and perceptions of self-hypnosis for sleep, including willingness, benefits, barriers, preferences, and access. The findings indicated that informed aging adults were willing to engage in self-hypnosis for sleep, regardless of their race or gender. Furthermore, they preferred technological delivery methods (i.e. telehealth or smartphone apps) with flexible scheduling options. However, very few participants endorsed having access to self-hypnosis.