Medical Sciences Commons^™

Erratum: Genetic Variations In Extracellular Matrix Degradation Pathways Linking To Major Depressive Disorder: Evidence From A Large-Scale Genetic Association Study, Halliru Zailani, Daniel Tzu-Li Chen, Sheng-Che Lin, Jia-Hau Lee, Mei-Ling Li, Bing-Fang Huang, Jane Pei-Chen Chang, Kuan-Pin Su

BioMedicine

No abstract provided.

Pneumoperitoneum As A Rare Complication Of Percutaneous Vertebroplasty: A Case Report, Chen-Ting Yang, I-Han Hsiao, Chun-Chung Chen, Der-Yang Cho, Hui-Shan Lu, Po-Fan Chiu

BioMedicine

A 70-year-old woman with a history of hepatocellular carcinoma and bone metastasis underwent percutaneous vertebroplasty for multilevel pathological vertebral compression fractures due to back pain persisting despite conservative treatment. Subsequently, she reported significant pain relief; however, on postoperative day 1, she complained of intermittent, diffuse, and severe abdominal pain. Imaging examination revealed free air in the retroperitoneum and paraspinal space, suggesting hollow organ perforation. She refused exploratory surgery and was consequently discharged against medical advice with only oral antibiotics. Two weeks later, she returned for follow-up. She was in good condition with stable vital signs and no signs of toxic …

Tracking The Course Of Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva In A Patient With The Classic Acvr1 Mutation, Mohamed Mostafa Kotb, Usama Farghaly Omar, Bishoy Raafat Zaky, Arun-Kumar Kaliya-Perumal

BioMedicine

Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) is an extremely rare and debilitating genetic disease affecting approximately 1 in 2 million people. It is caused by a heterozygous gain-of-function mutation in the gene encoding activin A receptor type I (ACVR1), leading to dysregulated bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. Clinically, the disease features progressive heterotopic ossification, with bone forming in sites of soft tissue inflammation. We report a 7-year-old boy with two isolated ectopic bone masses in the paraspinal muscles of the neck and lumbar spine, resulting in pain and restricted spinal mobility. Genetic analysis revealed the classic c.617G>A mutation in the gene …

Physalin A Protects Against Diabetes-Like Retinal Neurodegeneration Via Autophagy, Mitophagy, And Antioxidant Pathways In Drosophila Melanogaster, Yan-Ru Xiao, Wei-Yong Lin, Wen-Zhen Lee, Yu-Sheng Hsieh, Wei-Cheng Jiang, Fu-Shin Chueh, Yueh-Hsiung Kuo, Sheng-Yao Hsu, Yu-Jung Lin, Wen-Tsong Hsieh

BioMedicine

Background: Diabetic retinopathy begins with neuroretinal dysfunction driven by oxidative stress, mitochondrial injury, and impaired proteostasis before microvascular pathology emerges. Drosophila provides a tractable neuron-centric model to interrogate these early events. Physalin A (PA), a withanolide, has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities, yet its retina-specific mitochondrial actions in vivo remain incompletely defined.

Purpose: To determine whether PA rescues visual function and neuronal integrity in insulin receptor mutant Drosophila with DR-like retinal injury, and to delineate associated pathways in autophagy, mitophagy, and antioxidant defense.

Methods: Adult w^{1118; P{GMR-InR.A1325D}3} Drosophila received dietary PA (6–24 μM) for seven days. Visual function was …

Neuroinflammatory And Neuronal Damage Biomarkers In Depression: A Meta-Analysis Of Hmgb1, S100Β, And Nse Levels, Ikbal Andrian Malau, Suet-Kei Wu, Jane Pei-Chen Chang, Cheng-Ho Chang, Chun-Hung Chang, Ming-Jun Tsai, Yung-Chih Chiang, Kuan-Pin Su

BioMedicine

Background: Depression is associated with neuroinflammation and dysfunction of neurons and glial cells. Immune activation and damage-associated signals such as S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100β) and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) amplify inflammation, leading to neuronal injury. Neuron-specific enolase (NSE) reflects such injury. These molecules may serve as potential biomarkers of depression.

Aims: This study compared levels of S100β, HMGB1, and NSE in individuals with depression versus non-depressed controls.

Methods: PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched up to April 5, 2025, using the terms “S100B AND Depression”, “neuron specific enolase AND Depression”, and “HMGB1 …

Evaluation Of The Anti-Inflammatory Properties In Vitro, In Vivo And In Silico, Of The Snail Slime Helix Aspersa Müller, Marouane Aouji, Malak Zirari, Mariame Taibi, Meryem Lamdak, Amine Rkhaila, Rachid Bengueddour

BioMedicine

Background: The search for effective natural alternatives to synthetic non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are often associated with undesirable side effects, is an important axis of current research. The slime of the snail Helix aspersa Müller, is a traditional remedy that deserves scientific investigation for its potential therapeutic properties.

Purpose: This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of Helix aspersa Müller slime using a combination of in vitro, in vivo, and in silico methodologies.

Methods: In vitro analyses included assays for inhibition of protein denaturation, antiprotease and antilipoxygenase activities, and membrane stabilization, with diclofenac and indomethacin as reference …

Traditional Chinese Medicine And Healthcare Utilization In Bipolar Disorder: A Population-Based Study With Propensity-Matched And Mirror-Image Analyses, Shu-Ping Chen, Su-Tso Yang, Kai-Chieh Hu, Hui-Chih Chang, Jane Pei-Chen Chang, Kuan-Pin Su

BioMedicine

Background: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic relapsing illness associated with high rates of acute psychiatric hospitalizations (APH) and emergency services (ES) use, placing burdens on healthcare systems. Many patients seek complementary modalities, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), alongside standard pharmacotherapy. However, population-based evidence regarding TCM’s effect on acute healthcare utilization in BD is lacking.

Methods: Using data from Taiwan’s Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000 (LHID 2000), this population-based study employed propensity score matching (PSM) based on age, gender, the index year (defined as the calendar year of the index date for TCM users and their matched nonTCM counterparts), and …

Topical Peony And Licorice Decoction Attenuates Exercise-Induced Muscle Pain: A Randomized Double-Blind Self-Controlled Trial In Taiwan, Daniel Tzu-Li Chen, Chang-Wei Hsieh, Chia-Han Tsai, Tzung-Yan Lee, Pin-Chun Chen, Pu-Wei Hou, Kuan-Pin Su, Hen-Hong Chang

BioMedicine

Background

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a common phenomenon that occurs after exercise training, resulting in pain and reduced muscle performance. Previous basic and animal studies have reported that oral use of Peony and Licorice Decoction (PLD), a traditional Chinese formula with anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties, may be safe and effective for DOMS. However, there have been no clinical studies, particularly on the topical use of PLD, in this field to date.

Material and Methods

Our study is a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. We recruited healthy male athletes to assess the effect of external PLD, whose bioactive compounds were …

A Causal Association Between Alkaline Phosphatase And Natural-Cause Mortality: A Mendelian Randomization Study In East Asians And Europeans., Hung-Lin Chen, Ping-Hsun Wu, Yi-Ting Lin, Amrita Chattopadhyay, Hsiu-Yin Chiang, Yu-Ting Lin, Ya-Chi Lin, Che-Chen Lin, Min-Yu Chiang, Hung-Chieh Yeh, I-Wen Ting, Yu-Cyuan Hong, David Ray Chang, Jenq-Wen Huang, Yu-Ting Lin, Wei-Chi Syu, Tzu-Pin Lu, Yi-Chun Tsai, Fuu-Jen Tsai, Chin-Chi Kuo

BioMedicine

Background: Although observational studies show a positive association between alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels and mortality, a causal study is not yet available.

Objective: We conducted a retrospective cohort study and a systematic one-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to investigate the causality of ALP on natural-cause mortality.

Methods: The study used a hospital-based cohort of Asian patients recruited from the China Medical University Hospital (CMUH) and a community-based cohort of white European participants from the UK Biobank (UKB). Two retrospective cohorts included 43,994 patients from CMUH and 80,941 participants from UKB, all aged 50–55 years, with ALP measurements. For the MR …

Linking Institutional Ai Capability With Workforce Ai Fluency In Academic Health Institutions, Chin-Chi Kuo, Yu-Ting Lin, Cheng-Chieh Lin, Long-Bin Jeng, Bradley Chen

BioMedicine

No abstract provided.

Early Life Exposure To Antibiotics Increases The Risk Of Myopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study, Peng-Tai Tien, Chang-Ching Wei, Sheng-Chun Lin, Ping Ping Meng, Yu-Te Huang, Jamie Jiin-Yi Chen, Ming-Yen Wu, Ying-Hsiu Shih, Tzu-Ju Hsu, Fuu-Jen Tsai, Yao-Chien Wang, Hui-Ju Lin, Lei Wan

BioMedicine

Background

Myopia is a growing health issue, expected to affect nearly half of the global population by 2050. Genetic predisposition and early environmental influences both play crucial roles in the development of myopia. Identifying modifiable risks and early interventions is critical. Antibiotics, commonly given to young children, may disrupt gut microbiota, which has been linked to ocular diseases in humans and animals.

Aim We aimed to investigate the association between antibiotic use in early life and the risk of developing myopia.

Methods Retrospective cohort study using data from a national health insurance database examined children aged three years or younger, …

The Adverse Effects Of Clozapine On Blood Markers And Electrocardiographic Findings In Patients With Schizophrenia, Papageorgiou Anastasios, Vrettou Christina, Koukouli Andriana, Kalogirou Sofia, Gkrampovari Maria, Tampaki Despoina, Βartzi Dimitra, Tsatsou Ioanna, Tasoulis Athanasios

BioMedicine

Introduction: Clozapine remains the gold-standard antipsychotic for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, but its use is hindered by rare but serious adverse effects, such as hematologic abnormalities and myocarditis.

Purpose: This study investigated the adverse impacts of clozapine on blood markers and electrocardiographic (ECG) findings among patients with schizophrenia, emphasizing in early detection of life-threatening complications.

Methods: All patients initiated on clozapine at a psychiatric hospital in Athens, Greece, between January 2022 and June 2024 were considered for inclusion. Thirty-one patients with complete clinical and laboratory data were monitored for hematological, biochemical, and ECG changes at baseline, days 5–10, and after 1–2 months. …

Unveiling Immune-Related Gene Signatures In Triple Negative Breast Cancer Through Integrated Transcriptomic Analysis, Priyanga Paranthaman, Ramanathan Karuppasamy, Shanthi Veerappapillai

BioMedicine

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms, particularly immune-related gene networks, is critical for identifying novel therapeutic targets. Aim: This study aimed to identify immune-related hub genes involved in TNBC progression by integrating microarray and RNA sequencing data. Methods: We integrated microarray and RNA sequencing datasets from five Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) studies (GSE36295, GSE37751, GSE61724, GSE38959, and GSE58135) to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using the STRING database. Key modules and hub genes were identified through network analysis. …

Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicines Suppress Endometriosis Development Through Modulating Macrophage-Mediated Immune Responses In The Peritoneal Cavity, Cherry Yin-Yi Chang, Kung-Pin Chang, Pei-Fen Lee, Hsiang-Hao Chuang, Yun-Yi Su, Yu-Chi Chang, Man-Ju Yan, Chih-Mei Chen, Tritium Hwang, Huan-Yuan Chen, Chia-Jung Lig, Zhi-Hong Wen, Kuan-Hao Tsuig, Lun-Chien Lo, Jim Jinn-Chyuan Sheu

BioMedicine

Background: Due to unique dietary culture, Asian patients with endometriosis usually seek assistance through traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCHM), making combined treatments of Western and Chinese medicine quite common in Asia. However, limited molecular evidence has been provided to demonstrate the therapeutic benefits of TCHM in treating endometriosis.

Aims: To investigate the functional impacts of TCHM treatment in their traditional formulae on peritoneal immunity, lesion growth, and adhesion formation, we performed studies by using a disease mouse model that exhibits the features of blood stasis and stagnation.

Methods: Four well-known TCHM formulae, frequently used for treating symptoms similar …

Evaluation Of Bai-Zhu (Atractylodes Macrocephala)-Based Herbal Formulae In Breast Cancer: Implications For Metastasis Via Zeb1 And Slug Modulation, Yen Shen Lu, Pei Yen Yeh, Ling-Chun Yeh, Chia-Lin Lee, Ying-Chyi Song

BioMedicine

Background: Bai-Zhu (Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. [Asteraceae]) is classified in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as an herb that targets the gastric and pancreatic meridians to support normal nutrient uptake. As such, Bai-Zhu is commonly included in herbal formulations for treating gastrointestinal dysfunction and alleviating pain and swelling. Formulae containing Bai-Zhu are also frequently used as complementary or alternative therapies to mitigate the side effects of tumor treatments. However, their direct effects on cancer cells remain inadequately understood in modern biomedical science. This study aims to characterize the impact of Bai-Zhu-containing formulae on breast cancer cells using contemporary molecular and cellular …

Impacts Of Dna Ligase I Genotypes On Taiwan Parkinson’S Disease, Chao-Hsuan Chen, Wen-Shin Chang, Chia-Wen Tsai, Da-Tian Bau, Shih-Wei Hsu, Kun-Ting Hong, Chon-Haw Tsai, Fuu-Jen Tsai, Ming-Kuei Lu, Jai-Sing Yang

BioMedicine

Introduction: Genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair pathways can modulate

DNA repair capacity and influence susceptibility to aging-related disorders, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). This study evaluated the association between the DNA ligase I rs20579 polymorphism and PD risk.

Materials and Methods: Genotyping of DNA ligase I rs20579 was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in

123 PD patients and 492 age- and sex-matched controls of Taiwanese Han ethnicity.

Associations between rs20579 genotypes and PD risk were analyzed.

Results: Among controls, the genotype distribution of rs20579 was 78.7% GG, 19.3% AG, and 2.0% AA, compared with 75.6%, 21.1%, and …

Hepatoprotective Evaluation Of Benzoylated Emodin Derivatives: Integrating Bioinformatics And In Vitro Studies, Firdayani Firdayani, Putri Hawa Syaifie, Siska Andrina Kusumastuti, Muthia Rahayu Iresha, Wirawan Adikusuma, Dhecella Winy Cintya Ningrum, Etik Mardliyati, Ayu Masyita, Ariza Yandwiputra Besari, Fathir Azzaki Iradata, Lucy Arianie

BioMedicine

Background: Emodin exhibits various pharmacological activities, including hepatoprotective effects. However, its clinical application is limited by poor absorption and low oral bioavailability. This study aimed to optimize emodin through benzoylation and to assess the hepatoprotective potential of the resulting derivatives integrating bioinformatics and in vitro methods.

Methods: We conducted network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to predict potential targets and interactions of benzoylated emodin derivatives. The derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxicity using the MTT assay. The hepatoprotective effects were assessed in vitro using a paracetamol-induced HepG2 cell injury model.

Results: Network pharmacology analysis and gene …

Adjunctive Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy For Chronic Diabetic Foot Ulcer Unresponsive To Standard Care: A Case Report, Ismail Ismail, Sukriyadi Adi, Sitti Rahmatia, Agustan Agustan

BioMedicine

Background: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus and are often challenging to treat, particularly in patients who fail to respond to standard wound care. Adjunctive therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) have shown potential in promoting wound healing in chronic cases.

Case Presentation: A 66-year-old male with a 10-year history of type 2 diabetes mellitus presented with a chronic, non-healing DFU on the right foot. Despite oral antibiotic therapy and conventional wound management, the ulcer demonstrated progressive necrosis, persistent infection, and tissue exposure. Wound culture identified Klebsiella oxytoca. After targeted antibiotic treatment, the patient …

Neurosurgical Management Of Pineal Lesions: Insights From A Single-Center Study Of 27 Cases, David Montesinos Contreras, Walter Stummer, Maryam Khaleghi Ghadiri

BioMedicine

Introduction: Pineal lesions are rare and surgically challenging due to their deep location, histological diversity, and potential malignancy. The complexity of the pineal region anatomy and the diverse pathological spectrum contribute to the lack of standardized treatment strategies, making appropriate management controversial. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the surgical outcomes of patients with pineal tumors or cysts and to assess the impact of different surgical approaches, particularly the extent of resection, on progression-free survival. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 27 patients treated for pineal tumors or cysts at our institution between 2010 and 2020. Data regarding clinical …

A Glimpse Into The Impact Of Physical Activity On Linear Growth In Children And Adolescents Through Activity Restrictions Accompanying The Covid-19 Outbreak, Yi-Chun Lin, Wen-Ling Liao, Chung-Hsing Wang, Fuu-Jen Tsai

BioMedicine

Background: Linear growth in children and adolescents, a key health indicator, is influenced by various factors, including physical activity (PA). The COVID-19 lockdown in Taiwan created a unique opportunity to examine the effect of PA restrictions on growth.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at two hospitals in central Taiwan. The study included 72 children and adolescents (26 males, 46 females) who attended a growth clinic. Height and weight measurements were recorded in three stages: pre-lockdown, during lockdown, and post-lockdown. Growth rates were compared across stages using paired t-tests.

Results: The average growth rate was lowest during lockdown (0.0181 …

Assessing The Capabilities Of Ai-Based Large Language Models (Ai-Llms) In Interpreting Histopathological Slides And Scientific Figures: Performance Evaluation Study, Khanisyah Erza Gumilar, Grace Ariani, Priangga A. Wiratama, Rimbun Rimbun, Tri H. Yuliawati, Hong Chen, Ibrahim H. Ibrahim

BioMedicine

Background: Integrating artificial intelligence-based large language models (AI-LLMs) into medical and other scientific domains is increasingly recognized as a tool to support complex tasks, such as interpreting histopathology slides and scientific figures. AI-LLMs can simplify these processes by providing clearer explanations. By improving accessibility and comprehension, AI-LLMs can significantly assist healthcare professionals in diagnosing and therapy determination. Students and the public also find it easier to understand complex scientific concepts and images.

Objectives: This study explores the capability of AI-LLMs in interpreting histopathological slides and scientific images. This study aims to evaluate the performance of AI-LLMs in supporting diagnostics and …

Decyl Caffeate Inhibits The Proliferation Of Human Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells, Che-Yi Chao, Woei-Cheang Shyu, Chih-Lung Lin, En-Pei Isabel Chiang, Yueh-Hsiung Kuo, Feng-Yao Tang

BioMedicine

Background: Over recent decades, considerable attention has been directed toward the discovery of novel compounds capable of targeting survival-related signaling networks as therapeutic candidates for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Central to TNBC pathobiology are the Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK signaling axes, both contribute to tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. Caffeic acid (CA), a naturally derived phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory activity, has previously been investigated for its anti-cancer potential. Purpose: In the present study, we explored the therapeutic value of newly synthesized CA derivatives in TNBC models using both cellular and animal-based systems. Methods: The anti-tumor efficacy of these CA derivatives was …

The Association Between The Gnb3 Rs5443 C/C Genotype And Obesity Phenotypes In Taiwanese Individuals, Ling-Yi Xiao, Zi-Lun Lai, Yang-Di Su, Szu-Yun Wang, Nia-Jia Zheng, Po- Ren Hsueh

BioMedicine

Background: The prevalence of obesity has increased significantly over the

years, and its health concerns cannot be underestimated. Obesity not only

causes potential mobility limitations in daily life but also increases the risk of

developing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and other health

conditions. While an imbalanced diet and lack of exercise are well-known

causes of obesity, genetic patterns also influence its development. Although the GNB3 gene is known to be involved in lipid metabolism and fat cell

differentiation, studies have shown inconsistent associations between a

common single nucleotide polymorphism of GNB3 (c.825C>T, rs5443) and

obesity across different populations. Therefore, …

Chinese Herbal Medicine Treatment And The Association With Long-Term Major Adverse Cardiac Events In Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease: A Propensity-Score Matched Cohort Study, Yuan-Ching Liao, Mei-Yao Wu, Cheng-Li Lin, Chiz-Tzung Chang, Peter Mayer, Hung-Rong Yen

BioMedicine

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the leading cause of

mortality among idividuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). While Chinese herbal

medicine (CHM) is commonly used by CKD patients in Taiwan, the impact of CHM

use on cardiovascular outcomes in this population remains insufficiently understood.

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the association between CHM use and the long-

term risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) in patients with CKD.

Methods: Data were obtained from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database to identify patients aged over 20 years with newly diagnosed CKD. A 1:1 propensity score matching was performed …

Increased Dairy Product Consumption Is Associated With Shorter Telomere Length In Buccal Cells Among Normotensive Adults, Hsin-Hwa Tsai, Yang-Di Su, Zi-Lun Lai, Chia-Yu Lin, Shu-Fan Lin, Hsiu-Ching Hsu, Wen-Yuan Lin, Po-Ren Hsueh

BioMedicine

Background: Telomere length (TL) is a biomarker of biological aging and a predictor of age-related diseases. Dietary patterns, including dairy consumption, may influence telomere dynamics, but the evidence remains limited, particularly in Asian populations. This study investigates the association between dairy consumption and relative telomere length (RTL) in Taiwanese adults, with results analyzed by hypertension status.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 259 adults in Taipei, Taiwan. RTL was measured using quantitative PCR from buccal cells. Dietary intake was assessed through self-reported questionnaires, with a focus on dairy frequency and fat content. Multiple linear regression models were used to …

Genetic Variations In Extracellular Matrix Degradation Pathways Linking To Major Depressive Disorder: Evidence From A Large-Scale Genetic Association Study, Halliru Zailani, Daniel Tzu-Li Chen, Sheng-Che Lin, Jia-Hau Lee, Mei-Ling Li, Jane Pei-Chen Chang, Kuan-Pin Su

BioMedicine

Dysregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation pathways has been increasingly implicated in major depressive disorder (MDD), yet its genetic basis remains unclear. This study investigated the relationship between ECM-related genetic polymorphisms and MDD susceptibility. In a case-control study, we analyzed 317 MDD patients and 1,268 sexmatched controls from the Taiwan Biobank (TWB). Genomic DNA was analyzed using the Affymetrix TWB array, targeting single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 140 ECM degradation genes (Reactome database). Full-model association tests identified significant SNPs, validated with 5,000 max(T) permutations and adjusted via logistic regression for age, body mass index, education level, and marital status. We …

Neuroprotection Of Paeoniflorin As Antidepressant Candidate, Yuh-Fung Chen, Yi-Jui Chen, Jai-Sing Yang, Min-Min Lee, Huei-Yann Tsai

BioMedicine

Background: Depression is one of the common mental disorders worldwide, and currently used antidepressants have undesirable effects; therefore, the development of new antidepressants without side effects is urgently needed. Paeoniflorin (PF) exhibits various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. NMDA receptors in the hippocampus play a vital role in the pathophysiology of depression. Due to the scarcity of reports on the neuroprotection of PF on NMDA-induced excitotoxicity in the hippocampus, the present study aims to investigate the effects of PF on NMDA-mediated EPSP and calcium influx in the hippocampus to evaluate the potential of PF as an antidepressant. …

Prophylactic Effect Of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Monotherapy In Preventing Recurrent Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial, Ikbal Andrian Malau, Cheng-Ho Chang, Wei-Jen Chen, Wen-Chun Liu, Halliru Zailani, Hsien-Feng Liao, Jane Pei-Chen Chang, Wei-Che Chiu, Kuan-Pin Su

BioMedicine

Background: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) have demonstrated efficacy as adjunctive treatment for MDD. In fact, fewer studies assessed the prophylactic properties of n-3 PUFAs as monotherapy on the recurrence of MDD.

Aims: This study aimed to assess the prophylactic effect of n-3 PUFAs monotherapy against recurrent MDD.

Methods: We conducted a 6-month randomized controlled trial to assess the prophylactic effect of n-3 in preventing recurrent MDD. We assigned 60 remitted MDD patients to the n-3 group (n = 30) and placebo (n = 30). Furthermore, we assessed the difference in depression severity and MDD recurrence based on the …

Tai Chi For Cardiovascular Wellness: Integrating An Ancient Practice Into Modern Therapeutic Approaches, Chun-Han Cheng, Wen-Rui Hao, Huan-Yuan Chen, Po-Yuan Chen, Ju-Chi Liu, Tzu-Hurng Cheng

BioMedicine

Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese martial art characterized by gentle, fluid movements and deep breathing, has gained increasing recognition for its cardiovascular health benefits. This study investigated the integration of Tai Chi into contemporary cardiovascular health practices, focusing on its physiological and psychological effects. The slow, controlled movements characteristic of Tai Chi contribute to enhanced cardiovascular fitness, decreased blood pressure, and improved vascular function, while simultaneously alleviating stress and fostering emotional well-being. Through a review of clinical studies and trials, this study underscores the efficacy of Tai Chi in cardiovascular rehabilitation programs and its accessibility as a community-based intervention. Additionally, …

Circadian Rhythms And Neuroendocrine Dysregulation In Adhd: Therapeutic Insights From Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Ayesha Zafar Iqbal, Patricia Marest Suwindi, Sunny Yin-Shan Chen, Lindsay Liang-Tien Cho, Kuan-Pin Su, Jane Pei-Chen Chang

BioMedicine

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition often accompanied by circadian rhythm disturbances, particularly delayed sleep phase. These involve superchiasmatic nucleus (SCN) dysregulation, altered melatonin secretion, and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activity, which may be exacerbated by artificial light exposure. Genetic studies further implicate circadian mechanisms, linking ADHD with polymorphisms in clock genes such as PER and CLOCK.

Nutraceuticals, particularly omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), have been proposed as modulators of circadian rhythms. N-3 PUFAs are essential for brain health and may influence melatonin synthesis and sleep–wake regulation. Preclinical and clinical findings suggest that supplementation can improve cognitive …