Articles in this Volume

Research Article Open Access
The Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Obesity-Related Chronic Inflammation and Metabolic Health
Obesity is widely recognized as a public health problem around the world. In the human body, it is not only shown by excessive accumulation of fat tissue, but is also closely related to a state of chronic low-grade inflammation. In recent years, studies have found that the abnormal function of fat tissue caused by obesity can promote the release of inflammatory factors, which can further lead to insulin resistance, abnormal lipid metabolism, and other metabolic problems. As a result, obesity and chronic inflammation can form a vicious cycle in which they continue to worsen each other. Omega-3 fatty acids, as essential unsaturated fatty acids, have the potential to regulate inflammatory responses and improve metabolic function. This paper uses a literature review to summarize the mechanisms behind obesity-related chronic inflammation and analyze the possible ways Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation and improve metabolic problems. Based on existing clinical trial results, this paper discusses whether Omega-3 can effectively improve obesity-related problems by reducing chronic inflammation, as well as whether it has a direct effect on weight loss. Research has found that Omega-3 fatty acids can improve the metabolic condition of people with obesity by lowering the levels of pro-inflammatory factors, improving the inflammatory environment of fat tissue, and increasing insulin sensitivity. However, current clinical evidence does not prove that Omega-3 has a significant direct effect on weight loss. Therefore, Omega-3 is more suitable as an additional nutritional intervention in obesity management rather than as a product directly used for fat loss.
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Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Mental Health: A Neglected One Health Priority
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Toxoplasmosis, caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, has traditionally been associated with congenital infection and immunocompromised patients. Recent evidence suggests that latent infection may also contribute to the development of several mental disorders. This paper reviews the epidemiological literature on the association between T. gondii seropositivity and mental health outcomes, with a focus on schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and suicidal behaviour. The analysis draws on published meta-analyses and systematic reviews. The findings indicate that the association is consistent across multiple studies and that the attributable disease burden is substantial. The paper concludes that T. gondii infection represents a neglected but potentially preventable risk factor for mental illness, and that a One Health approach integrating human, animal, and environmental health offers a practical framework for addressing this issue.
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The Impact of Basic Medical Insurance on Healthcare Utilization among Chinese Residents: An Empirical Study Based on CFPS Data
Ensuring that everyone has access to healthcare and receives equitable treatment is a crucial concern in health economics and public policy. Basic medical insurance is a key factor in lessening the financial strain of medical expenses for individuals and improving their access to care. However, whether participation in medical insurance actually leads to greater healthcare utilization across different population groups remains a significant research question. This study focuses on how basic medical insurance affects healthcare utilization among the Chinese population, using data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS). By applying descriptive statistical analysis and logistic regression models, this research examines the connection between basic medical insurance and healthcare utilization, while also taking demographic variables into account. The goal of this research is to determine if basic medical insurance boosts healthcare utilization and if its impact varies between urban and rural populations. This study can help us better understand the state of China's healthcare system today and provide feasible suggestions for future policy development and planning for the country. The results are intended to offer concrete evidence for better healthcare insurance policies, as well as for decreasing disparities in healthcare access and fostering long-term health improvements in China.
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