Search Results (2,157)

Chronic skin wounds are difficult to heal or nonhealing. These wounds may become infected and progress to tissue necrosis, potentially leading to limb amputation, sepsis, reduced quality of life, depression, economic burden on the healthcare system, and social isolation. Several clinical strategies, including negative pressure wound therapy, antibiotic-based infection control, and wound debridement, have been developed to treat skin wounds. However, these approaches primarily target local wound conditions and offer only short-term relief, not achieving sustained functional regeneration. Stem cell-based therapy has emerged as an alternative therapeutic method for skin wound treatment owing to its ability to suppress inflammation, stimulate angiogenesis, and promote cellular proliferation. However, the low post-transplantation survival rate of stem cells remains a major limitation. Exosomes, nanosized extracellular vesicles, transport proteins, lipids, mRNAs, and miRNAs and mediate regenerative functions, including anti-inflammatory effects, angiogenesis promotion, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Stem cell-derived exosomes (SC-Exos) offer several advantages over their parent cells, including greater stability, lower immunogenicity, absence of tumorigenic risks, and ease of storage and distribution. These attributes render SC-Exos particularly attractive for cell-free regenerative therapies. In this review, we introduce exosomes derived from various types of stem cells and explore their therapeutic applications in skin wound regeneration. Full article

Background/Objectives: Evidence suggests a J-shaped association between alcohol consumption and depression, but it remains unclear whether this reflects a true causal effect, reverse causation, or methodological bias. This uncertainty is particularly relevant in older adults, who are at increased risk for both depression and alcohol-related harms. This study aimed to examine the association between varying levels of alcohol consumption and depression risk in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: We analyzed 16,563 community-dwelling older adults (mean age 75.1 ± 4.6 years) from the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial. Alcohol intake, reported at baseline and follow-up, was categorized as abstinent, occasional, moderate, or above-guideline. Both intention-to-treat (classified by baseline alcohol consumption, regardless of later changes) and per-protocol (using annual time-updated alcohol consumption ) analyses were performed. To address confounding, informative censoring, and selection bias, we applied marginal structural models with inverse probability weighting. Results: In per-protocol analyses, abstainers (OR 1.17), occasional drinkers (OR 1.11), and above-guideline drinkers (OR 1.15) were significantly associated with a higher risk of depression compared with moderate drinkers, consistent with a J-shaped association. Sensitivity analyses excluding former drinkers and those with baseline depressive symptoms showed similar results. The association remained robust after adjusting for social isolation, social support, social interactions, physical activity, pain, sleep duration, sleep difficulties, and sleep medication use (n = 14,892; Australian sub-sample), and did not differ by sex. Conclusions: Moderate alcohol consumption was associated with the lowest depression risk, confirming a J-shaped relationship after comprehensive confounder adjustment. Full article

As a renewable and carbon-storing raw material, wood is playing an increasingly important role in the transformation of the construction sector towards a circular economy (CE). However, extant scientific studies have largely analyzed its technical, environmental, and social aspects in isolation from one another. The present article provides a problem-oriented and conceptual narrative overview, integrating these three dimensions from a design perspective. The objective of this study is not to provide a systematic review of the extant literature, but rather to structure existing knowledge by categorizing topics as follows: well-recognized, moderately developed, and niche. This approach enables the identification of gaps and links relevant to architectural practice. A qualitative thematic approach was adopted, underpinned by a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed articles sourced from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. This approach was further enriched by the incorporation of a select array of highly cited sources, serving to substantiate the study’s findings and provide a comprehensive overview of the pertinent literature. The review identified four research areas with high potential but low recognition: digital tracking of the life cycle of wooden elements, upcycling of low-quality wood, development of innovative wood-based materials, and socio-cultural acceptance of CE-based architecture. These subjects are currently marginal in the field of research, despite their significant implications for design strategies, adaptive resource use, and the development of interdisciplinary tools. The article posits the necessity of integrating materials science, digital technologies and architectural theory as a prerequisite for the scalable development of circular wood construction. The proposed classification provides a conceptual framework to support further research and guide innovation in the built environment. Full article

Seismic isolation and energy dissipation systems are essential technologies for enhancing the resilience and sustainability of buildings and infrastructure exposed to earthquake-induced ground motions. By reducing structural damage, protecting non-structural components, and ensuring post-earthquake functionality, these systems contribute to minimizing economic loss, preserving human life, and supporting long-term community resilience. This review focuses exclusively on passive control systems, such as base isolators and damping devices, commonly codified and implemented in current engineering practice. A comprehensive analysis of international design codes and performance-based practices is presented, highlighting the role of these systems in promoting sustainable infrastructure through risk mitigation and extended service life. The study identifies critical gaps in global standards and testing protocols, advocating for harmonized and forward-looking approaches. The findings aim to inform seismic design strategies that align with the principles of environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Full article

Psychology as an empirical science has targeted human cognition for more than a century. Typically, the focus of these investigations was on isolated mental processes, which were studied in individual participants in confined laboratory settings. The present commentary aims to show how a relatively recent paradigm shift, the (renewed) conception of humans as fundamentally social, can shape our understanding of the mind and our scientific approach to studying spirituality. In the first sections, I will shortly review advances of psychological research in core processes and capacities of social understanding (empathy, compassion, perspective taking) and social interaction (communication, cooperation) that are also considered relevant in spiritual practices and traditions. Subsequently, a large-scale intervention study, the Resource Project, is presented to exemplify how the investigation of meditation-based mental trainings can decidedly include social practices (so-called contemplative dyads) and how these practices benefit interpersonal capacities. Arguing that cognition, spirituality, and scientific endeavors are not confined to individual minds and brains but arise in the dynamic in-between of interacting agents, I will outline possible avenues for future inter-disciplinary research at the interface of religious sciences/theology and psychology. Full article

Background/Objectives: School-age children with food allergies (FAs) face substantial psychosocial challenges. Herein, we aimed to synthesize the experiences of such children. Methods: A systematic review of qualitative studies was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022359854). A systematic search was conducted of eight databases. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The data were synthesized through meta-aggregation, and the confidence in the findings was assessed using the ConQual approach. Results: Seventy-three unequivocal findings were extracted and synthesized into three integrated findings. (1) Children with FAs live with daily fear, social restrictions, and emotional stress. To ensure their safety and foster self-management skills, the trusted adults in their lives must be well-informed about allergy management. (2) Children with FAs experience isolation, teasing, and exclusion from peers, whereas peer communication can foster understanding and acceptance. To address this, schools must promote peer empathy, provide allergy education, and build inclusive environments that empower children to express their needs safely. (3) Motivated by curiosity and personal goals, some children engage in oral immunotherapy or allergen reintroduction, leading to meaningful outcomes, such as increased food choices, social inclusion, and reduced anxiety. At the same time, they face emotional and physical burdens, highlighting the need for safety-focused, informed, supported care that considers both the benefits and burdens. Conclusions: This review highlights the need for child-centered, emotionally supportive, and inclusive care involving families, schools, and healthcare providers. However, the moderate ConQual score of the synthesized findings indicates that the recommendations should be considered with caution. Full article

Background: Hearing impairment is a significant public health issue globally, yet national data for Saudi Arabia remain sparse. Methods: Using data from the 2017 Disability Survey, we analysed 12 hearing-related indicators across 13 administrative regions. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression, cluster analysis, and residual mapping were applied to identify socio-demographic disparities and service gaps. Findings: Among 20,408,362 Saudi nationals, about 1,445,723 (7.1%) reported at least one functional difficulty. Of these, 289,355 individuals (1.4%) had hearing impairment, either alone or with other difficulties—229,541 (1.1%) had hearing impairment combined with other disabilities, while 59,814 (0.3%) had only hearing impairment. Females and males were equally affected. Notably, educational attainment and marital status significantly influenced device uptake; less-educated and divorced individuals were particularly underserved. Regionally, southern provinces (Al-Baha, Jazan, and Najran) demonstrated the highest unmet need due to geographic barriers, limited audiological resources, and socioeconomic constraints, reflecting compounded risks from consanguinity and rural isolation. Cluster analyses identified provinces requiring urgent attention, recommending mobile audiology units, tele-audiology services, and means-tested vouchers to enhance coverage. Conclusions: Despite Saudi Arabia’s existing public audiology services and a National Newborn Hearing Screening programme achieving 96% coverage, substantial gaps remain in follow-up care and specialist distribution, underscoring the necessity for systematic workforce tracking and enhanced rural incentives. International evidence from India and Brazil underscores the feasibility and cost-effectiveness (approximately USD 5200/QALY) of these recommended interventions. Implementing targeted provincial strategies, integrating audiological screening into routine healthcare visits, and aligning resource allocation with the WHO and Vision 2030 benchmarks will significantly mitigate hearing impairment’s health, social, and economic impacts, enhancing the quality of life and societal inclusion for affected individuals. Full article

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) deals with several symptoms, including language and speech impairment and developmental delays. The main brain regions affected could be the prefrontal cortex (PFC) or the temporal lobe. The detrimental features could include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. Most often, these phenomena are interrelated and can lead to one another, creating a vicious cycle. They also influence the regulation of certain genes involved in the pathogenesis of ASD or related behavior. In the brain regions prone to these detrimental features, a cascade of free radicals, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial energy disruptions is initiated. These actions during the prenatal or developmental stage of the child potentially lead to ASD symptomatic features, such as social isolation, communication difficulty, speech and language impairment, cognitive dysfunction, and intellectual disability. The more recent theories, including genetics, epigenetics, and the gut–brain axis, have been demonstrated to play a greater role in ASD pathology, often being associated with the more common ones as mentioned above. We also introduced some of the neurological disorders possessing shared genetic and behavioral traits with ASD. Many genes playing a role in ASD-like features and their potential targeted drugs were explained briefly. However, there are limited therapeutic options, and molecular pathways related to this disorder are less explored. Currently, researchers and therapists are racing to uncover a concrete remedy. This review also provides a brief outline of potential antioxidant, mitochondrial, and anti-inflammatory therapies. We finally included some novel strategies to diagnose and manage autistic pathology and symptoms. Full article

Severe sensitivity to various environmental chemicals affects an increasing number of people—a condition referred to as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). The responses are both physical and psychological, where avoidance of chemical triggers can lead to social isolation, thereby increasing the level of disability. There is a need for user supportive environments where people with MCS can thrive, both indoors and outdoors. The study resulted in three principles for designing outdoor housing areas: (1) using spatial analysis to create a site layout that minimizes exposure to external and confounding triggers (e.g., noise, visual disturbances); (2) using zoning to clearly delineate private from semi-private areas; and (3) selecting vegetation and materials carefully to avoid triggers. The principles were developed in an iterative process based on existing research combined with a survey involving 58 MCS respondents. Full article

Purpose: As remote work becomes increasingly prevalent, scholarly and organizational attention has largely centered on stress and workload. However, emerging evidence highlights loneliness and isolation as critical yet underexplored factors with profound implications for employees’ mental health and organizational performance. Method: This study conducts a bibliometric review of 65 peer-reviewed articles indexed in the Scopus database, following PRISMA guidelines and employing VOSviewer for data analysis and visualization. The objective is to examine how loneliness and isolation in remote work settings affect psychological well-being and productivity. Findings: The findings reveal that the absence of physical interaction and structured social environments exacerbates feelings of detachment, contributing to emotional strain and reduced job performance. Despite the growing importance of remote work, the literature remains fragmented in addressing its broader psychological and organizational consequences. Originality/Value: This study offers theoretical insights and practical recommendations for managers and policymakers, emphasizing the need for preventive strategies and inclusive management practices to support employee well-being, foster engagement, and sustain organizational effectiveness in remote work contexts. Full article

Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can contribute to increased morbidity, reduced quality of life, and worse clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, these psychological conditions remain largely overlooked. This narrative review includes studies published between 1983 and 2025 to synthesise the current evidence on the risk factors, clinical impacts, and therapeutic strategies for these comorbidities. While the exact mechanisms leading to their increased prevalence are not fully understood, growing evidence implicates a combination of biological (e.g., systemic inflammation), social (e.g., isolation and stigma), and behavioural (e.g., smoking and inactivity) factors. Despite current guidelines recommending the identification and management of these comorbidities in COPD, they are not currently included in COPD assessments. Undetected and unmanaged anxiety and depression have serious consequences, including poor self-management, non-adherence to medications, increased risk of exacerbation and hospitalisations, and even mortality; thus, there is a need to incorporate screening as part of COPD assessments. There is robust evidence showing that pulmonary rehabilitation, a core non-pharmacological intervention, can improve mood symptoms, enhance functional capacity, and foster psychosocial resilience. Psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and supportive counselling have also demonstrated value in reducing emotional distress and improving coping mechanisms. Pharmacological therapies, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), are commonly prescribed in moderate to severe cases or when non-pharmacological approaches prove inadequate. However, the evidence for their efficacy in COPD populations is mixed, with concerns about adverse respiratory outcomes and high discontinuation rates due to side effects. There are also barriers to optimal care, including underdiagnosis, a lack of screening protocols, limited provider training, stigma, and fragmented multidisciplinary coordination. A multidisciplinary, biopsychosocial approach is essential to ensure early identification, integrated care, and improved outcomes for patients with COPD. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic precipitated unprecedented social isolation measures, profoundly disrupting daily life, educational routines, and mental health worldwide. University students, already susceptible to psychological distress, encountered intensified challenges under remote learning and prolonged confinement. This longitudinal study examined fluctuations in anxiety and mood among 102 Brazilian university students during the pandemic, distinguishing between those solely engaged in academic pursuits and those simultaneously balancing work and study. Data collected via the Brunel Mood Scale and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory in April and July 2021 revealed that students exclusively focused on studies exhibited significant increases in depressive symptoms, anger, confusion, and anxiety, alongside diminished vigor. Conversely, participants who combined work and study reported reduced tension, fatigue, confusion, and overall mood disturbance, coupled with heightened vigor across the same period. Notably, women demonstrated greater vulnerability to anxiety and mood fluctuations, with socioeconomic disparities particularly pronounced among females managing dual roles, who reported lower family income. These findings suggest that occupational engagement may serve as a protective factor against psychological distress during crises, underscoring the urgent need for tailored mental health interventions and institutional support to mitigate the enduring impacts of pandemic-related adversities on the student population. Full article

Wellington, New Zealand, is highly vulnerable to disaster-induced food security crises due to its geography and geological characteristics, which can disrupt transportation and isolate the city following disasters. Urban agriculture (UA) has been proposed as a potential alternative food source for post-disaster scenarios. This study examined the potential of urban agriculture for enhancing post-disaster food security by calculating vegetable self-sufficiency rates. Specifically, it evaluated the capacity of current Wellington’s community gardens to meet post-disaster vegetable demand in terms of both weight and nutrient content. Data collection employed mixed methods with questionnaires, on-site observations and mapping, and collecting high-resolution aerial imagery. Garden yields were estimated using self-reported data supported by literature benchmarks, while cultivated areas were quantified through on-site mapping and aerial imagery analysis. Six post-disaster food demand scenarios were used based on different target populations to develop an understanding of the range of potential produce yields. Weight-based results show that community gardens currently supply only 0.42% of the vegetable demand for residents living within a five-minute walk. This rate increased to 2.07% when specifically targeting only vulnerable populations, and up to 10.41% when focusing on gardeners’ own households. However, at the city-wide level, the current capacity of community gardens to provide enough produce to feed people remained limited. Nutrient-based self-sufficiency was lower than weight-based results; however, nutrient intake is particularly critical for vulnerable populations after disasters, underscoring the greater challenge of ensuring adequate nutrition through current urban food production. Beyond self-sufficiency, this study also addressed the role of UA in promoting food diversity and acceptability, as well as its social and psychological benefits based on the questionnaires and on-site observations. The findings indicate that community gardens contribute meaningfully to post-disaster food security for gardeners and nearby residents, particularly for vulnerable groups with elevated nutritional needs. Despite the current limited capacity of community gardens to provide enough produce to feed residents, findings suggest that Wellington could enhance post-disaster food self-reliance by diversifying UA types and optimizing land-use to increase food production during and after a disaster. Realizing this potential will require strategic interventions, including supportive policies, a conducive social environment, and diversification—such as the including private yards—all aimed at improving food access, availability, and nutritional quality during crises. The primary limitation of this study is the lack of comprehensive data on urban agriculture in Wellington and the wider New Zealand context. Addressing this data gap should be a key focus for future research to enable more robust assessments and evidence-based planning. Full article

As the global population ages, older adults face growing psychological challenges such as loneliness, cognitive decline, and loss of social roles. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, including chatbots and voice-based systems, offer new pathways to emotional support and mental stimulation. However, older adults often encounter significant barriers in accessing and effectively using AI tools. This review examines the current landscape of AI applications aimed at enhancing psychological well-being among older adults, identifies key challenges such as digital literacy and usability, and highlights design and training strategies to bridge the digital divide. Using socioemotional selectivity theory and technology acceptance models as guiding frameworks, we argue that AI—especially in the form of conversational agents—holds transformative potential in reducing isolation and promoting emotional resilience in aging populations. We conclude with recommendations for inclusive design, participatory development, and future interdisciplinary research. Full article

During the course of genome mining initiatives, we identified a marine-derived Micromonospora, assigned here as strain WMMD956; the genome of WMMD956 appeared to contain a number of features associated with everninomicins, well-known antimicrobial orthosomycins. In addition, LCMS-based hierarchical clustering analysis and principal component analysis (hcapca) revealed that WMMD956 displayed an extreme degree of metabolomic and genomic novelty. Dereplication of high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HRMS/MS) and Global Natural Product Social molecular networking platform (GNPS) analysis of WMMD956 resulted in the identification of several analogs of the previously known everninomicin. Chemical structures were unambiguously confirmed by HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR experiments, and the use of MS/MS data. The isolated metabolites, 1–3, were evaluated for their antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphalococcus aureus (MRSA). Full article