Search Results (31,817)

Mushroom residue (MR) is extensively produced during the industrialized cultivation of mushrooms, and its utilization is environmentally sustainable. Cotton hull waste (CW) serves as a common raw material for the cultivation of Volvariella volvacea in China. This study compared MR- and CW-based cultivation formulas with respect to their physicochemical characteristics, bacterial communities, and functional dynamics during substrate fermentation (composting). Xylanase production was greater in the MR formula than in the CW formula. Conversely, cellulase (CMCase) was generated at higher levels in the CW formula compared to the MR formula. Interestingly, the biological efficiency of MR was found to be comparable to that of CW, but the cost of MR was much lower. The dynamics of bacterial communities and their associated metabolic functions during substrate fermentation were monitored using 16S rRNA metagenomics techniques. Significant alterations in bacterial community structure were observed within both formulas throughout the preparation phase. Indicator species analysis revealed distinct patterns of bacterial diversity development between MR- and CW-based composts during fermentation. Metabolic function analysis indicated that carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism remained relatively active throughout this process. These results suggest that the MR formula is equally effective as conventional CW compost for supporting V. volvacea cultivation, while also offering a lower raw material cost. Full article

Background: The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) serves as a non-invasive proxy for prenatal androgen exposure. While its relationship with adult athletic ability is well documented, evidence for its association with childhood physical fitness remains inconsistent, and links between 2D:4D and objective fitness measures in prepubertal children are unclear. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 338 prepubertal children (181 girls, 157 boys; aged 5–12 years) underwent precise measurement of right- and left-hand 2D:4D ratios (intra-class correlation coefficient = 0.94). Physical fitness was evaluated using standardized tests: the Illinois agility run, bent-arm hang, and standing long jump. Results: Among boys, higher 2D:4D ratios were modestly associated with prolonged bent-arm hang performance (β = 0.19, q = 0.04) and shorter Illinois agility times (β = −0.19, q = 0.04). No significant associations were observed in girls. All effect sizes were small, suggesting subtle, sex-dependent influences rather than robust predictors of performance. Conclusions: These findings indicate that prenatal hormonal environment may exert a limited, sex-specific influence on early physical fitness characteristics. Although biologically informative, the observed associations are insufficient for direct application in talent identification in sports. Longitudinal research incorporating direct hormonal measurements and broader populations is recommended to clarify developmental mechanisms and causal pathways. Full article

Collagen, as the predominant structural protein in vertebrates, represents a promising biomimetic material for scaffold development. Fibre-based scaffolds produced through textile technologies enable precise modulation of structural characteristics to closely mimic the extracellular matrix architecture using wet-spun collagen fibres. However, this in vitro fibre formation lacks natural crosslinking, resulting in collagen fibres with compromised mechanical strength, enzymatic resistance, and thermal stability compared to their native counterparts, thus restricting their biomedical applicability. Post-fabrication crosslinking is therefore imperative to enhance the durability and functional performance of collagen fibre-based scaffolds. Although traditional crosslinkers like glutaraldehyde effectively improve mechanical strength and stability, their clinical utility is hindered by cytotoxicity and associated adverse biological responses. Alternative synthetic crosslinking agents, such as hexamethylene diisocyanate, 1-Ethyl-3-(3’-dimethyl amino propyl) carbodiimide, and 1,4-Butanediol diglycidyl ether, have demonstrated superior cytocompatibility while effectively improving collagen fibre properties. Nonetheless, synthetic compounds may induce more pronounced foreign body reaction than natural agents, necessitating further investigation into their cytocompatibility across varying concentrations. In contrast, plant-based crosslinking offers a promising, cytocompatible alternative, significantly enhancing the thermal and mechanical stability of collagen fibres, provided that potential fibre discolouration is acceptable for intended biomedical applications. Full article

Alginate-hydroxyapatite (AL) scaffolds modified with fibronectin (FN) or bioactive glass (BGMS10) have recently been characterized for their physicochemical properties and proposed as promising candidates for bone regeneration. Here, we present their first systematic biological evaluation, focusing on adhesion, proliferation, osteogenic differentiation, and in vivo host response. We compared FN-, BG-, and unmodified AL scaffolds using an immortalized mesenchymal stromal cell line (M-SOD) and primary human bone marrow-derived (BM-MSCs) and adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs). FN scaffolds enhanced initial adhesion across all cell types and supported proliferation in M-SODs, but primary BM-MSCs and ASCs showed minimal expansion, regardless of scaffold type. BG scaffolds promoted expression of late-stage osteogenic markers in BM-MSCs, consistent with their ion release profile, but had limited impact on ASCs. In vivo subcutaneous implantation of acellular scaffolds in nude mice revealed robust host cell infiltration and extracellular matrix deposition across all scaffold types, confirming biocompatibility and integration. However, vascularization remained limited and did not differ substantially between formulations. Together, these findings highlight a critical discrepancy between immortalized and primary stromal cell responses to scaffold cues, underscoring the choice of cell source when evaluating the biocompatibility of a novel scaffold. At the same time, the effective in vivo integration observed across scaffold types emphasizes the importance of host tissue responses for translational evaluation of functional biomaterials. Full article

In the past decades, significant advancements in the biological and genetic characterization of acute leukemias and optimization of risk-adapted multi-agent treatment protocols have dramatically improved cure rates and quality of life for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Despite these optimal results, patients with relapsed or chemotherapy-refractory (R/R) disease or with high-risk genetic features still face unsatisfactory outcomes. Further intensification of conventional chemotherapy has reached its limits in achieving the desired efficacy without undue side effects, necessitating innovative approaches to improve cure rates while continuing to minimize the toxicities associated with chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In the era of precision medicine, two key therapeutic strategies have emerged in hemato-oncology: molecularly targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Antibody-based and cellular immunotherapies have undoubtedly reshaped the landscape of childhood ALL treatment and have significant potential to play leading roles in current and future frontline regimens; these important therapies are well delineated in recent reviews. Molecularly targeted small molecule inhibitor therapies remain a cornerstone of precision medicine, supported by recent advancements in next-generation sequencing, which have enabled the application of transcriptomic and genomic profiling data to risk stratification and therapy optimization. Clinical trials for children with ALL have been instrumental in refining therapies and improving outcomes, a paradigm that remains critical as treatment strategies become increasingly complex. This comprehensive review focuses upon molecularly targeted therapy approaches for childhood ALL and aims to summarize findings from completed clinical trials to highlight the current landscape of ongoing and upcoming trials and to provide insights into future directions for the precision-driven optimization of pediatric B-ALL and T-ALL treatment. Full article

Poor oral health is a neglected epidemic, potentially contributing to systemic health issues. We employed a multi-omics approach to investigate the biological changes associated with gingivitis and the effects of stannous fluoride (SnF₂) dentifrice on microbial composition and salivary proteomics in an eight-week clinical trial involving 39 participants categorized as high (n = 20) and low bleeders (n = 19). Baseline assessments revealed significant microbial dysbiosis in high bleeders, characterized by a higher abundance of Porphyromonas and Fusobacterium, alongside compromised epithelial barriers and increased inflammation. Following SnF₂ treatment, a substantial reduction in these bacteria, and an increase in Rothia and Haemophulis, were observed, correlating with improved clinical measures, including reduced bleeding and inflammation indices. In total, 80 proteins (including pro-inflammatory cytokines, alarmin keratins, and matrix metalloproteinases) showed a significant reduction in high bleeders after treatment, with 29 overlapping the disease biomarkers in the plasma atlas, supporting the role of SnF₂ in mitigating oxidative stress and enhancing epithelial integrity. Furthermore, SnF₂ treatment significantly reduced collagen degradation, suggesting the preservation of tissue integrity. These findings highlight that SnF₂ not only improves local oral health but may also benefit systemic health, showcasing the value of a multi-omics approach in understanding the interconnections among oral microbiota, inflammatory responses, and systemic health outcomes. Full article

Raw biomass presents challenges for energy use due to its high moisture content, low bulk density, and susceptibility to biological degradation, which hinder storage, transport, and utilization. An experimental setup was developed to investigate exothermic behavior during torrefaction of agricultural and food industry wastes. Exothermic reactions were observed between 190 °C and 450 °C, with more prominent effects in corn waste, sugarcane bagasse, and straw compared to sunflower husks, palm residues, and coffee skin. A series of tests performed on a torrefaction reactor with a core-type wall heating system showed that the heat generated by exothermic reactions makes it possible to reduce the torrefaction time by a factor of 1.5 (from 120 to 80 min) to obtain biochar of the required quality, with only a slight process temperature increase (15%, from 200 to 230 °C). These findings offer practical pathways for transforming waste into valuable biochar, fostering environmental resilience and socio-economic benefits in communities reliant on biomass resources. Full article

As next-generation sequencing develops, there are significant associations between glucokinase regulatory protein (GCKR) variants and many diseases, especially metabolic diseases. However, there is a lack of solid descriptions and summaries of how GCKR variants lead to diseases and a lack of successful translations of drugs targeting this molecular variant. We searched literature datasets, mainly including PubMed and Web of Science, with “GCKR” or “GKRP”, “Variants”, “Hypertriglyceridemia”, “NAFLD”, and “Metabolic diseases” as the search terms. Our review firstly introduces the biological function of the GCKR gene and its encoding protein GKRP and then describes the GCKR variants in different diseases, such as hypertriglyceridemia and NAFLD, revealing that GCKR/GKPR is strongly associated with metabolic diseases. GKPR might be a potential target for T2D and other metabolic diseases. One drug for interfering with the GCK-GKRP complex has been developed and has shown its effectiveness in preclinical studies, with some possible side effects. More and more different-structured drugs should be developed to improve side effects, and more clinical trials should be carried out to determine the best intervention window and timing points to improve prognosis. Taken together, these insights show that GCKR/GKRP is significantly associated with many metabolic diseases via its complex metabolism system and is a potential target in many metabolic diseases. Full article

Effective bovine artificial insemination (AI) training requires balancing technical skill development with animal welfare considerations. Commercial simulators typically replicate Bos taurus anatomy, limiting utility in regions where Bos indicus breeds predominate. This study validates the TrAI4Nel simulator, customized for Nelore cattle AI training. Validation employed a multi-dimensional framework encompassing face, physical, content, construct, and concurrent validity, plus usability and training effectiveness assessments. Of the 85 participants in standardized AI technician courses who were randomly allocated to control (abattoir specimen-based) and experimental (simulator-integrated) groups, 61 provided feedback about TrAI4Nel (19 in the control group and 42 in the experimental group). The simulator was also independently evaluated by 14 AI experts. Trainees rated the simulator highly for anatomical realism and procedural consistency. Compared with abattoir specimens, TrAI4Nel significantly enhanced skill transfer to live animals, particularly cervical pipette navigation and semen deposition identification. The simulator increased trainee confidence, reduced anxiety, and improved perceived preparedness. Performance assessments demonstrated simulator-trained participants achieved significantly higher success rates (78.6%) versus controls (52.6%; p = 0.043), without prolonging completion times. Qualitative feedback emphasized the simulator’s pedagogical value in enhancing anatomical comprehension, skill acquisition, and learner autonomy while supporting animal welfare. Training sequence analysis indicated biological specimen exposure before simulator use may optimize learning efficiency. These findings validate TrAI4Nel as an effective, ethically sound tool for Bos indicus AI training. Simulator integration into curricula provides scalable improvement of reproductive management in zebu-dependent regions. Full article

Propolis, a resinous substance produced by Apis mellifera, is a chemically diverse natural product rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes, vitamins, and minerals. These compounds exhibit a range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects, making propolis an attractive candidate for applications in the food and health sciences. This review summarizes the current understanding of its chemical composition and the environmental, botanical, and genetic factors influencing its variability. Particular attention is given to extraction methods: while conventional approaches such as maceration and Soxhlet extraction remain widely used, they often compromise compound stability. In contrast, emerging techniques—such as ultrasound-, microwave-, and supercritical fluid-assisted extraction—enhance yield, selectivity, and sustainability. Encapsulation strategies, including micro- and nanoencapsulation, are also explored as practical tools to protect propolis bioactives from degradation, improve solubility, and mask their strong taste, thereby ensuring higher bioavailability and consumer acceptability. Recent applications in the meat, dairy, beverage, bakery product, and edible film industries demonstrate propolis’ potential to extend shelf life, inhibit microbial growth, and enrich the nutritional and functional quality of these products. Nevertheless, challenges remain, particularly regarding standardization, allergenicity, dosage, and regulatory approval, which limit its widespread industrial adoption. Overall, Apis mellifera propolis represents a multifunctional natural ingredient that bridges traditional medicine with modern food science. Advances in extraction and encapsulation technologies are paving the way for the integration of this ingredient into functional foods, nutraceuticals, and sustainable food preservation systems, underscoring its value as a natural alternative to synthetic additives. Full article

Estrogen metabolites (EMs) play a local regulatory role in mammalian ovarian function. Among them, 2-hydroxyestradiol (2-OHE2) exerts dose-dependent effects on reproductive physiology, supporting either normal ovarian processes or contributing to pathological conditions. Specifically, 2-OHE2 modulates ovarian vasculature and progesterone biosynthesis, and at 1–10 nM concentrations, it enhances in vitro developmental competence and blastocyst quality in mouse oocytes. Conversely, doses below 1 nM show no appreciable effects, suggesting the existence of a biological activity threshold. However, the impact of supra-physiological concentrations remains largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated the effects of increasing 2-OHE2 doses (0.05, 0.50, and 5.00 µM) on oocyte meiotic progression and quality. Exposure to 0.50 and 5.00 µM significantly impaired oocyte maturation, while only the highest dose notably reduced the percentage of embryos developing to the blastocyst stage. Morphometric analysis during the GV-to-MII transition revealed altered first polar body morphology, defective asymmetric division, and disruptions in cytoskeletal organization, including enlarged meiotic spindles, increased F-actin cap angles, and aberrant microtubule-organizing centers distribution. These structural alterations were paralleled by distinct changes in cytoplasmic movement velocity patterns observed through time-lapse imaging during meiotic resumption. Together, these findings demonstrate that supra-physiological exposure to 2-OHE2 compromises oocyte maturation and developmental competence by perturbing key cytoskeletal dynamics and cellular architecture necessary for successful meiosis and early embryogenesis. Full article

To enhance the scope of therapeutic interventions using star polymeric nanoparticles of desired concentrations, an understanding of the effect of converting aqueous formulations into stable redispersible dry powders by freeze drying on their physicochemical and biological properties is essential. We demonstrate that parameters such as the choice of the cryoprotectant, its molecular weight, and concentration play an important role during lyophilization and reconstitution processes. We hypothesized that utilizing cryoprotectants akin to shell-forming polymers may be ideal in protection against aggregation and keeping the nanostructures intact during lyophilization and reconstitution, as well as retaining the overall biological efficacy of their cargo. Through an evaluation of miktoarm polymer-based nanoparticles, we demonstrate that PEG_2k at 1% w/v concentration provides the optimized cryoprotection, and the resulting solid formulations upon redispersion in an aqueous medium preserve the desired nanoparticle and curcumin properties. PEG_2k at 1% w/v is more efficient than PEG_5k and saccharides including glucose, sucrose, trehalose, and mannitol in enhancing the integrity of micelles during lyophilization and reconstitution. Addition of PEG_2k 1% w/v (with or without lyophilization and redispersion) enhances drug release in PBS buffer, while it has no impact in the cell culture media. Nanoformulations protect endothelial cells from cytotoxicity of curcumin, and addition of cryoprotectant or the lyophilization/redispersion processes did not impair anti-inflammatory efficacy of curcumin. Full article

Background: High-fat diet (HFD)-induced hepatic inflammation impairs liver function, promotes fibrosis, and may progress to hepatocellular carcinoma, thereby posing a significant threat to human health. Meanwhile, fermented whole grains have attracted growing attention owing to their diverse beneficial biological properties. Methods: In this study, we investigated the effects of co-fermented quinoa and black barley (FG) on HFD-induced chronic hepatic inflammation using male C57BL/6J mice. Results: FG intervention significantly attenuated excessive body weight gain and reduced hepatic adipose accumulation in HFD-fed mice. Furthermore, FG alleviated hepatic inflammation by downregulating the transcriptional and protein levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), as well as the transcriptional levels of toll-like receptor 4 (Tlr4), cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14), and myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (Myd88). Metabolomic analysis identified several hepatic and fecal metabolites, such as vitamin A and L-tryptophan, that were upregulated by FG treatment. The strong negative correlation of these metabolites with hepatic inflammatory markers suggests their role as putative mediators of FG’s anti-inflammatory action. Additionally, FG enhanced the relative abundances of probiotic taxa, including g_Lawsonibacter, g_Acetatifactor, and s_Bifidobacterium cricetid, and upregulated the microbial bile acid (BA) biosynthesis pathway. Notably, these enriched probiotics exhibited a positive correlation with the aforementioned fecal metabolites. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that FG has the potential to alleviate HFD-induced hepatic inflammation by restoring gut microbiota imbalance and reversing metabolic disorders. Full article

Background: Identifying factors that predispose futsal athletes to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies. This study aimed to determine whether specific dermatoglyphic markers are associated with an increased risk of ACL injury in this population. Methods: This retrospective case–control study analyzed 212 former male futsal athletes, divided into an injury group (n = 85 with a history of ACL injury) and a control group (n = 127 without injury). Fingerprint patterns (arches, loops, and whorls) and quantitative line counts were collected and analyzed using the dermatoglyphics method. Chi-square tests and log-linear regression were used for statistical analysis. Results: While no significant differences were found in the quantitative line counts between groups (p > 0.05), a significant association was identified for specific fingerprint patterns. The spiral whorl (WS) pattern on the left index finger (p = 0.043) and the right little finger (p = 0.007) was significantly more frequent in the ACL injury group. Overall, athletes presenting the WS pattern had approximately twice the odds of having a history of ACL injury (OR = 2.028, 95% CI 1.493–2.756). Conclusions: The findings suggest that specific dermatoglyphic patterns, particularly the spiral whorl, may serve as an indicator of a potential biological predisposition to ACL injuries in futsal athletes. This finding suggests dermatoglyphics could be a potential component for future multifactorial risk assessment models in futsal. Full article

Valorization of Phoenix dactylifera L. (date) seeds, an abundant agro-industrial byproduct, offer a sustainable approach to developing multifunctional ingredients for dermocosmetic photoprotection. Rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and lipophilic antioxidants, date seed extracts and oils demonstrate promising UV-absorbing, anti-inflammatory, and free-radical-scavenging properties. Recent in vitro, ex vivo, and preclinical studies underscore their potential as bioactive agents in sunscreen formulations, supporting both skin barrier integrity and oxidative stress mitigation, although clinical validation is still required. This review consolidates current knowledge on the phytochemical profile and biological efficacy of date seed derivatives, with emphasis on their integration into advanced delivery systems such as nanocarriers, Pickering emulsions, and cyclodextrin complexes to enhance photostability, skin permeability, and esthetic acceptability. Safety aspects, including allergenicity, phototoxicity, and regulatory gaps, are critically examined alongside environmental and ethical advantages, including biodegradability and vegan suitability. The findings advocate for the inclusion of Phoenix dactylifera L. seed actives in next-generation dermocosmetic sunscreens that align with circular bioeconomy principles, consumer demand for “reef-safe” products, and evolving international regulations. Further clinical validation is encouraged to fully translate these botanically derived agents into effective and ethically sound sun care innovations. Full article