Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness in the U.S. However, not much is known of underlying molecular mechanism and how oxidative stress contributes to its development. In the present study, we investigated the involvement of TGFβ signaling pathway on the effect of oxidative stress on VEGF secretion and viability of retinal cells. VEGF is the hallmark that exacerbates DR progression in prolonged diabetes. Some major concerns that have arisen are the underlying effects of antioxidants in elevating VEGF secretion in diabetes.

In recent years, stress and stress-coping mechanisms constitute a growing public healthcare issue concerning modern society. Experiencing stress engenders a great complex mechanism named stress response, which consists of a rapid release of catecholamines by the sympathetic nervous system, followed by a slower response in which hormones, mainly glucocorticoids (GCs), are synthesized and released to the bloodstream.

Sickle cell disorder (SCD) remains a disease of public interest, accounting for a significant number of deaths, especially in low and middle-income countries in Africa. Despite years of intensive studies, its cure remains a subject of ongoing investigation.

Although essential metal ions are required in the body, neurotoxicity occurs when exposed to a concentration of metal that the body cannot accommodate. In the case of non-essential metals which are important in industry, these elements have the property of causing neurotoxicity even at small concentrations. When such neurotoxicity progresses chronically, it can contribute to various neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

Objectives: Physical function impairment can cause great stress to older adults. The purpose of the study is to investigate the association between self-reported and directly-observed physical function on perceived stress among U.S. Chinese older adults.