Search Results (2,581)

Background and Objectives: Endometrial adenocarcinoma is among the most prevalent malignancies of the female reproductive system, and therapeutic options remain limited, particularly in advanced stages. In recent years, natural agents, especially flavonoids, have gained considerable interest for their capacity to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic drugs and modulate tumor-related molecular mechanisms. Hesperidin, a citrus-derived flavonoid, is recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, while Gemcitabine, a nucleoside analog, is widely used in cancer treatment. Investigating their combined effects on endometrial carcinoma cells could yield novel insights into multimodal therapeutic development. This current study aimed to assess the impact of Hesperidin (Hes) and Gemcitabine (Gem) on ISHIKAWA cells, a human endometrial adenocarcinoma model, with particular attention to pathways associated with hypoxia, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: ISHIKAWA cells were treated with varying concentrations of Hes (50–200 µM) and Gem (10–50 nM), either individually or together, for 24 and 48 h. Cell viability was determined using the MTT assay, while apoptosis was measured by Caspase-3/7 activity and NucBlue nuclear staining. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was quantified via DCFH-DA fluorescence. Expression levels of HIF-1α, VEGF, Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 were examined by RT-qPCR. Synergistic interactions were analyzed with the Chou–Talalay combination index. Biological enrichment was further explored using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. Results: Both Hes and Gem significantly decreased ISHIKAWA cell viability in a concentration- and time-dependent manner (p < 0.001). The combined treatment induced stronger apoptotic effects, as reflected by increased Caspase-3/7 activity and nuclear morphological changes. RT-qPCR demonstrated upregulation of Bax and Caspase-3, together with downregulation of Bcl-2, HIF-1α, and VEGF. While Hes reduced intracellular ROS, Gem elevated it; their combination produced a balanced oxidative response. All dose combinations displayed strong synergism (CI < 1). GO and KEGG enrichment confirmed the involvement of apoptosis-, angiogenesis-, and hypoxia-related pathways. Conclusions: Co-treatment with Hes and Gem exhibits synergistic anticancer activity in endometrial cancer cells by promoting apoptosis, suppressing angiogenesis- and hypoxia-related gene expression, and modulating oxidative stress. This combined therapeutic approach highlights its potential as a promising adjuvant option, warranting further evaluation in in vivo and translational studies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Tooth autotransplantation is a natural tooth replacement method that preserves the periodontal ligament, supporting root development and alveolar bone remodeling. Unlike dental implants, autotransplanted teeth maintain sensory function and adapt better to the mouth. Although once overlooked, new surgical, imaging, and regenerative advances have revived interest in this technique. This narrative review explores the renewed interest in tooth autotransplantation by assessing its benefits, success rates, technological advancements, and role in modern dentistry while evaluating its advantages, limitations, and potential impact on dental care. Methods: A narrative approach was used to provide a comprehensive and descriptive overview of current knowledge on tooth autotransplantation. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar using keywords such as “tooth autotransplantation”, “biological tooth replacement”, “periodontal ligament”, and “dental implants alternative”. English-language articles published between 2000 and 2025 were included, covering clinical trials, reviews, and relevant case reports. Selection focused on studies discussing biological mechanisms, clinical techniques, technological advances, and treatment outcomes. Results: Success rates range from 80% to 95%, with better predictability in younger patients with immature donor teeth. Long-term viability depends on preserving the PDL and performing atraumatic extractions. However, challenges such as root resorption, ankylosis, and appropriate case selection remain significant considerations. Technological advancements, including CBCT, 3D-printed surgical guides, and biomimetic storage media, have improved surgical precision and clinical outcomes. Conclusions: Tooth autotransplantation is an effective and cost-effective alternative to dental implants, particularly for growing patients or when implants are not suitable. While success depends on surgical skill and proper case selection, improvements in imaging and regenerative techniques have made outcomes more predictable. Future advances in bioengineering, AI-based planning, and regenerative therapies are likely to expand their use in modern dentistry. Full article

Intestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), Crohn’s disease, malabsorption syndromes, and gastrointestinal fistulae (GIFs) are often characterized by chronic inflammation, epithelial barrier disruption, impaired stromal remodeling, and defective angiogenesis. These multifactorial alterations hinder tissue repair and contribute to poor clinical outcomes, with limited efficacy from current therapeutic options. Despite recent advances in surgical and endoscopic techniques, current treatment options remain limited and are frequently accompanied by high morbidity and costs. In this context, regenerative medicine offers a promising avenue to support tissue repair and improve patient care Regenerative medicine offers a promising avenue to restore intestinal homeostasis using advanced biomaterials and cell-based therapies. In this study, we developed a 3D-bioprinted model based on patient-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) embedded in a GelMA hydrogel, designed to promote intestinal tissue regeneration. To identify the most suitable hydrogel for bioprinting, we initially evaluated the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of four distinct matrices using bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs). Among the tested formulations, GelMA demonstrated optimal support for cell viability, low oxidative stress, and structural stability in physiologically relevant conditions. Based on these results, GelMA was selected for subsequent bioprinting of freshly isolated SVF. The resulting bioprinted constructs enhanced key regenerative processes across multiple compartments. The SVF-laden constructs significantly enhanced intestinal epithelial cell viability and tight junction formation, as shown by increased trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER). Co-culture with fibroblasts accelerated wound closure, while endothelial cells exhibited increased tube formation in the presence of SVF. Together with VEGF secretion, indicating strong paracrine and angiogenic effects. By supporting epithelial, stromal, and vascular regeneration, this approach provides a versatile and translational platform for treating a broad spectrum of intestinal pathologies. Full article

Malignant bone and soft tissue tumors are often resistant to conventional treatment, and treatment options for unresectable and metastatic cases are limited. L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) is overexpressed in several malignancies, including sarcomas, making it an attractive target for targeted alpha therapy. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy of LAT1-targeted alpha therapy using a novel modified 3-astatin-211 Astato-α-methyl-L-tyrosine (²¹¹At-AAMT) for bone and soft tissue sarcomas. LAT1 expression and the specificity of LAT1-mediated uptake of ²¹¹At-AAMT were evaluated in bone and soft tissue sarcoma cell lines. Antiproliferative effects were assessed using cell viability and colony formation assays. DNA damage was assessed using immunostaining with phosphorylated histone γH2AX. In vivo efficacy of ²¹¹At-AAMT, determined using xenograft mouse models, was compared with that of doxorubicin. LAT1 was highly expressed in all cell lines, especially MP-CCS-SY and MG-63 cells. ²¹¹At-AAMT uptake was LAT1-dependent and significant in all cell lines. It inhibited cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, comparable to that of doxorubicin. In xenograft models, a single administration of ²¹¹At-AAMT significantly inhibited tumor growth without systemic toxicity, whereas doxorubicin caused weight loss. Histopathological analysis showed reduced cell density, inhibited proliferation, and extensive DNA damage in tumors treated with ²¹¹At-AAMT, whereas LAT1 expression was maintained in residual tumor tissues. LAT1-targeted alpha therapy with ²¹¹At-AAMT demonstrated antitumor efficacy comparable to that of first-line chemotherapy for osteosarcoma and soft tissue sarcoma. Sustained LAT1 expression suggests the potential for repeated or combination treatments, highlighting its promise as a novel therapy for advanced, treatment-resistant sarcomas. Full article

Background/Objectives: Radiobiology has shown heterogeneity in the sensitivity of cells to ionizing radiation, depending on a variety of conditions. The presence of an extracellular matrix (ECM) appears to confer a radioprotective effect on cells and can influence the cellular microenvironment by modulating the availability of oxygen and nutrients, which can affect cellular metabolism and stress responses. A three-dimensional cell culture allows the synergistic effect on cell survival to be obtained based not only on the radioprotective properties of the extracellular matrix but also on the stress-resistant endogenous properties of the cell culture. The aim of this study was to investigate the survival of chondrocytes in a 3D cell culture during high-dose ionizing irradiation. Methods: The properties of nasal chondrocytes were evaluated using a pellet culture model in which the cells were surrounded by a de novo synthesized extracellular matrix. Tissue cultures were exposed by gamma radiation at doses of 10, 100, and 1300 Gy. Cell viability was assessed after 2 days of irradiation by live/dead staining using confocal scanning laser microscopy. Results: Tissue-cultured chondrocytes survive after gamma-irradiation of low (10 Gy), medium (100 Gy), and high (1300 Gy) dosages; however, after irradiation of 1300 Gy, the percentage of surviving cells was lower. The average percentages of viable cells were evaluated as 82%, 79%, and 63% in low-, medium-, and high-dose groups, respectively. Conclusions: Under determined conditions, human cells are able to survive at doses of ionizing radiation that are significantly higher than the current limits. Full article

This study evaluates the financial viability of different main engine–fuel configurations for a container vessel on a standardized Trans-Pacific route. Using Net Present Value (NPV) analysis over a 10 year evaluation period (2024–2033), it compares six propulsion scenarios, combining three Wärtsilä engine types and four fuel alternatives (HFO, LFO, LNG, Methanol). The framework integrates technical parameters, including engine power and fuel consumption, with financial instruments such as the Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) and the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM). Results show that the LNG-powered Wärtsilä 8V31DF achieves the highest NPV. Despite requiring the highest initial capital expenditure (CAPEX), this configuration delivers superior financial performance and remains robust under volatile market conditions. Sensitivity tests with ±20% freight–fuel shocks and alternative discount rates (5%, 7.18%, 10%) confirm that the relative ranking of propulsion options is stable. Methanol yields negative NPVs under current prices but could become competitive with bio-methanol cost reductions or strong carbon pricing. Limitations include constant non-fuel OPEX, fixed sea state, and the exclusion of explicit carbon price scenarios. From a policy perspective, LNG appears most viable in the short term, while long-term strategies should consider ammonia and hydrogen in line with IMO decarbonization pathways. Full article

This study investigates the financial and operational feasibility of deploying electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure within high-density residential buildings, utilizing empirical operational data combined with comprehensive financial modeling. A 14-day monitoring period conducted at a residential complex comprising 958 units revealed distinct charging behaviors, with demand peaking during weekday evenings between 19:00 and 22:00 and displaying more dispersed yet lower overall utilization during weekends. Energy efficiency emerged as a significant operational constraint, as standby power consumption contributed substantially to total energy losses. Specifically, while total energy consumption reached 248.342 kW, only 138.24 kW were directly delivered to users, underscoring the necessity for energy-efficient hardware and intelligent load management systems to minimize idle consumption. The financial analysis identified pricing as the most critical determinant of project viability. Under current cost structures, financial break-even was attainable only at a profit margin of 0.2286 USD (8 THB) per kWh, while lower margins resulted in persistent financial deficits. Sensitivity analysis further demonstrated the considerable vulnerability of the project’s financial performance to small fluctuations in profit share and utilization rate. A 10% reduction in either parameter entirely eliminated the project’s ability to reach payback, while variations in energy costs, capital expenditures (CAPEX), and operational expenditures (OPEX) exerted comparatively limited influence. These findings emphasize the importance of precise demand forecasting, adaptive pricing strategies, and proactive government intervention to mitigate financial risks associated with residential EV charging deployment. Policy measures such as capital subsidies, technical regulations, and transparent pricing frameworks are essential to incentivize private sector investment and support sustainable expansion of EV infrastructure in residential sectors. Full article

This study develops integrated bioeconomic management strategies for the common squid (Todarodes pacificus) fishery in Korea’s coastal waters, addressing both biological conservation and economic sustainability amid severe stock depletion and declining fishery profitability. Drawing on recent catch data and cost structures for six Total allowable Catch (TAC)-managed fishery types, common squid-specific economic indicators were estimated using a stepwise cost allocation method. Based on previous research using the Catch—Maximum Sustainable Yield (CMSY) model with limited Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) data, the biomass in 2020 was estimated at approximately 56% of Biomass at Maximum Sustainable Yield (BMSY), indicating an overfished state. Scenario-based simulations identified TAC allocation thresholds at which net profits reach zero, providing a benchmark for adaptive quota redistribution. Results show variation in economic sensitivity and common squid dependency among fishery types: common squid-dependent gears such as offshore jigging and East Sea trawl exhibit high vulnerability, while multi-species fisheries such as purse seine remain resilient. These results provide a basis for developing tailored management strategies for each fishery, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of interventions. Accordingly, policy recommendations include dynamic TAC adjustments, expanded monitoring, introduction of an Individual Transferable Quota system, and coordinated stock assessments with China and Japan. These findings contribute to refining Korea’s TAC system by aligning stock recovery goals with the economic viability of fishing operations. Full article

Disease outbreaks pose a significant challenge in aquaculture, leading to substantial economic losses for producers. Tenacibaculosis, a significant ulcerative bacterial disease caused by Tenacibaculum maritimum, affects a wide range of marine fish species globally. Current disease management relies on antibiotics and chemicals, leading to environmental issues, impaired fish and consumer health, and increased antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. This narrative review critically explores welfare-oriented alternatives, specifically examining the potential of temperature modulation and functional diets. Although thermal strategies show promise for warm-water species through behavioural fever mechanisms, their effectiveness remains limited by species-specific thermal tolerances and lack of commercial validation. Nutritional interventions using marine algae, probiotics, and immunostimulants demonstrate broader applicability but suffer from inconsistent methodologies, limited commercial validation, and significant knowledge gaps. We propose that integration of these approaches could theoretically represent a paradigm shift from pathogen-focused to host-centred disease management, pending empirical validation. However, this integration concept requires rigorous validation, as significant knowledge gaps persists regarding optimal implementation protocols, welfare monitoring frameworks, and economic viability assessments. From our perspective, transitioning to welfare-oriented aquaculture demands rigorous evaluation and validation, commercial-scale trials, economic cost–benefit analysis, and the establishment of regulatory frameworks before these theoretical alternatives can be responsibly implemented. Full article

Background/Objectives: Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is an ultra-rare, metastatic vascular sarcoma with limited therapeutic options. The hallmark of EHE is a chromosomal translocation that produces the WWTR1-CAMTA1 gene fusion, encoding the aberrant transcriptional regulator TAZ-CAMTA1. Given its central role in the EHE initiation and progression, TAZ-CAMTA1 represents a compelling therapeutic target. Methods and Results: In this study, we identified AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) as one of several proteins capable of repressing the TAZ-CAMTA1 transcriptional activity in NIH3T3 and HEK293 cell lines. The pharmacologic activation of AMPK inhibited the proliferation of EHE cell lines without inducing apoptosis; however, in contrast to the NIH3T3 and HEK293 models, AMPK activation in EHE cells unexpectedly increased the TAZ-CAMTA1 expression and activity. Notably, elevated TAZ-CAMTA1 expression was also associated with reduced EHE cell growth, suggesting that the induction of TAZ-CAMTA1 may be one mechanism by which AMPK suppresses EHE growth. Additionally, we found that AMPK inhibits mTOR activity and that direct mTOR inhibition also suppresses EHE cell growth. Conclusions: Together, these findings demonstrate that AMPK activation impairs EHE viability through dual mechanisms: by promoting TAZ-CAMTA1 expression and by inhibiting mTOR signaling. This work highlights AMPK as a potential therapeutic target in EHE and supports the growing body of evidence favoring mTOR inhibitors as promising treatments for this rare cancer. Full article

Current electrolytic refining processes for crude solder commonly employ fluosilicic acid (H₂SiF₆) as the electrolyte with bone glue and β-naphthol additives yet suffer from poor electrolyte stability, coarse cathode crystallization, low current efficiency, and high energy consumption, adversely affecting product quality and economic viability. In order to solve these limitations, electrochemical techniques, XRD, SEM, and ICP-OES were used to study the effects of gelatin and sodium lignosulfonate on the deposition overpotential and cathode morphology, as well as the effects of process parameters on current efficiency and energy consumption. A novel approach was developed using an H₂SiF₆ system enhanced by gelatin and sodium lignosulfonate for crude solder refining. After optimization, 120 h electrolysis achieved a current efficiency >97.8%, smooth/dense cathode surface, average cell voltage of 0.24 V, and energy consumption of 98.15 kWh/t. Efficient deposition of 81.2% Sn and 75.2% Pb on the cathode was realized, while >93.3% of Sb, Bi, Ag, Cu, and As were enriched in anode slime to facilitate valuable metal recovery, and >90.6% of In/Al concentrated in the electrolyte enabled effective Sn-Pb impurity separation. This study provides theoretical and technical foundations for advancing sustainable and economical electrolytic refining of crude solder. Full article

Bacteriophage therapy can successfully provide additional treatment to control Salmonella infection, but low gastric pH limits its oral application. The present study aimed to develop an improved encapsulation formulation with enhanced acid protection for oral delivery of Salmonella phages using polymers. This was achieved by encapsulating a phage cocktail containing three different bacteriophages against Salmonella sp. in alginate beads incorporating polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), PVP-K30, and calcium carbonate as viscosity modifiers and acid protection enhancers. Further, the beads were coated with poly-L-lysine to improve the stability and tested for their efficacy for improved phage viability under in vitro acidic conditions for subsequent use in oral delivery. Moist beads were slimy, and semi-dried beads presented a coarse surface as observed using FE-SEM. In vitro studies revealed that the free phage cocktail exhibited complete inactivation when exposed to acidic pH 2.5 after 15 min incubation. In contrast, the encapsulated phage cocktail showed a decrease of only 1.66 log units in viability when incubated for 90 min at pH 2.5. Furthermore, oral delivery of the encapsulated phage cocktail in the poultry model significantly reduced bacterial load in infected birds’ intestines. Full article

The integration of composite materials into commercial aviation has transformed the industry by providing superior performance benefits, including enhanced fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved structural integrity. With a significant shift towards aircraft featuring high contents of composite materials, the focus has also turned to the challenges associated with the end-of-life management of these materials. Unlike metals, composites are notoriously difficult to recycle due to the strong bonding between fibres and resin, creating significant environmental and economic challenges. The methodology employed—consisting of an extensive literature review that prioritises a holistic approach—aims to provide an overview of the status of composite recyclability in aviation. With this, the report investigates the durability of composites under operational conditions, the associated environmental factors, and their impact on the recycling potential. The dismantling processes for decommissioned aircraft are analysed to identify strategies that preserve material integrity for effective recycling. Established recycling methods are critically evaluated alongside innovative approaches. The study highlights the limitations of current techniques in terms of costs, energy consumption, and material degradation while exploring emerging technologies that aim to overcome these barriers. It is concluded that currently available techniques do not possess the industrial maturity required to handle the amount of composite materials being employed in aviation. Moreover, there is a clear discontinuity between the developments in the usage of composites and their end-of-life recycling, which can cause serious environmental and economic challenges in future years. By combining information regarding composite usage and aircraft retirements, assessing the environmental and economic implications of composite recycling as well as available techniques, and proposing pathways for improvement, this research underscores the importance of adopting sustainable practices in aviation. The findings aim to contribute to the development of a circular economy within the aerospace sector, ensuring the long-term viability and environmental responsibility of future composite-intensive aircraft designs. This is performed by calling for a multi-stakeholder strategy to drive recycling readiness and facilitate the evolution towards a circular economy in aviation, leading to more sustainable design, production, and dismantlement of aircraft in the future. Full article

The complexity of the biochemistry and the variety of possible environments make the subject of the no-growth limits of bacteria a very tough challenge. This present work addresses the problem of applying to the microbial cultures the polymer science approach, which is widespread in food technology. This requires the definition of a “dynamic state diagram” that reports the expected trends of the glass transition of two virtual polymers, which mimic the crowded cytoplasmic polymers and the polymeric meshwork of the cell envelope, respectively, versus the water content. At any given temperature, the water content at the glass transition represents the lowest limit for the relevant molecular mobility. This representation leads one to recognize that the lowest temperature to observe microbial growth coincides with that of the largest freeze-concentrated liquid phase, in line with the values predicted by the Ratkowsky empirical equation. In view of potential applications in predictive microbiology, this paper suggests an alternative interpretation for the highest tolerated temperature and the temperature of the largest specific growth rate. Full article

Background/Objectives: Ascorbic acid (AA)is a micronutrient with concentration-dependent anticancer properties, acting either as a reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger or inducer. Methods: Conventional redox-based assays such as MTS/MTT often overestimate cell proliferation due to AA’s interaction with tetrazolium salts, leading to increased formazan production. To overcome this limitation, we employed the Propidium Iodide Triton X-100 (PI/TX-100) assay to evaluate AA’s cytotoxic effects across a diverse panel of cancer and normal cell lines, including prostate (22Rv1, C4-2B, DU-145, LNCaP), breast (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-453), lung (A549), liver (HepG2, SK-HEP-1, Huh7), and kidney (Vero) cells. Results: AA significantly suppressed cancer cell viability compared to normal cells (RWPE1 and Vero), with the strongest effects observed in hormone receptor-positive lines. The relative sensitivity to AA followed distinct patterns within each cancer type. Mechanistically, AA-induced cell death involved ROS generation, lipid peroxidation, cell cycle arrest, ferroptosis, apoptosis, and downregulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDHK1). Conclusions: These findings further support the potential of AA as a selective anticancer agent and highlight the importance of assay choice in evaluating its therapeutic efficacy. Full article