Search Results (348)

As a critical raw material in the semiconductor and new energy sectors, antimony is a strategic mineral resource for nations to safeguard industrial chain security. However, the scarcity of its resources and the complexity of its trade pattern underscore the urgency of antimony-related research. This study aims to reveal the structural characteristics of the global antimony trade network and explore the external factors influencing trade. Based on global antimony trade data from 2007 to 2022, the characteristics of the antimony trade network were analyzed using the complex network analysis method, and the influencing factors of antimony trade were examined via the fixed effects model. The results show that the global antimony trade network maintains a density of 0.05–0.06, with an average path length of 2.4–2.7 and a network diameter that mainly fluctuates between 5 and 6. The average clustering coefficient fluctuates within the range of 0.35–0.45. Overall, the network exhibits the characteristics of stable transmission efficiency, loose overall connectivity, and local agglomeration without a consistent upward or downward trend. Countries such as Germany, China, and the United States occupy core positions in the network. The fixed effects model indicates that GDP and LOGISTICS development are key factors promoting trade, while TARIFFS and REGULATORY policies have a significant inhibitory effect on trade. Therefore, ① Focus on the High-End Development of the Antimony Industry Chain and Promote the In-Depth Integration of Antimony Trade with the Semiconductor and New Energy Industries; ② Improve the Cross-Border Logistics and Warehousing System for Antimony Trade to Ensure the Efficient Circulation of Strategic Resources; ③ Promote; Promote Tariff Liberalization in Antimony Trade and Eliminate Market Access Barriers; ④ Strengthen the Government’s Strategic Support for the Antimony Industry to Enhance Global Discourse Power in Antimony Trade; Trade; ⑤ Maintain Macroeconomic Stability and Flexibly Manage Exchange Rates to Safeguard the Resilience of Antimony Trade. Full article

This study investigates the regulatory role of circFBN1 in chicken follicular granulosa cells (GCs) and its underlying molecular mechanisms through the miR-206/E2F5 pathway. circFBN1 was found to significantly enhance GC proliferation and inhibit apoptosis, as evidenced by increased expression of proliferation-related genes (PCNA, CDK1, and CCND1) and decreased expression of apoptosis-related genes (Caspase-3). Additionally, circFBN1 overexpression promoted the secretion of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) by upregulating steroidogenesis-related genes (StAR and CYP11A1). Mechanistic studies revealed that circFBN1 functions as a molecular sponge for miR-206, thereby alleviating its inhibitory effect on the target gene E2F5. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed the specific binding between circFBN1 and miR-206. Overexpression of miR-206 had the opposite effects, inhibiting GC proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and reducing E2 and P4 secretion by downregulating StAR and CYP11A1. Furthermore, E2F5 was identified as a direct target of miR-206, and its knockdown significantly reduced GC proliferation, increased apoptosis, and decreased steroid hormone secretion. These findings elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of the circFBN1/miR-206/E2F5 axis in avian follicle development and provide potential molecular targets for improving poultry reproductive performance. Future research should focus on exploring the upstream regulators of this axis and its interactions with other signaling pathways. Full article

Background/Objectives: Orange peels (OP), a major by-product of the juice industry, are rich in bioactive compounds (phenolic compounds, pectin, carotenoids, and essential oils). Its valorization represents a promising route to reduce food waste and foster a circular bioeconomy. This review aimed to map scientific progress in OP upcycling, focusing on the extraction of bioactive ingredients for human nutrition and integrated biorefinery approaches aligned with zero-waste principles. Methods: A bibliometric analysis and a scoping review were conducted covering studies published between 2003 and 2023. Scopus database and VOSviewer was usedto identify research trends, hotspots, and gaps. Conventional and emerging green extraction methods were critically compared, and integrated biorefinery strategies for maximizing OP valorization were systematically assessed. Results: The analysis revealed an exponential rise in OP research over the past decade, reflecting growing interest in sustainable food waste valorization. Polyphenol- and pectin-rich extracts are currently the focus of research and applications, driven by their high economic and nutritional value. Innovative multi-extraction and zero-waste biorefinery models have emerged, yet most remain at low technological readiness levels. Carotenoids and other bioactive compounds remain underexplored, and challenges persist regarding standardization and scalability. Conclusions: OP valorization is shifting towards integrated green extraction and biorefinery frameworks that address clean-label demands, promote circular economy goals, and align with the Sustainable Development Goals. Future research should prioritize (i) standardized protocols, (ii) scalable green extraction technologies, (iii) the inclusion of underutilized compounds such as carotenoids, and (iv) regulatory pathways to accelerate industrial translation. Full article

This article examines the integration of salutogenic design principles into the legal and regulatory framework for buildings in Poland, situating the analysis within a broader European and international context. The study combines a systematic literature review, a comparative analysis of Polish building law and technical conditions with international standards and empirical evidence from case studies and Post-Occupancy Evaluations (POE) conducted in hospitals, offices, and schools. This triangulated approach allowed for both qualitative and quantitative assessment of key salutogenic factors, including daylight access, acoustic comfort, air quality, thermal conditions, aesthetics, ergonomics, and opportunities for social interaction. The results demonstrate that Polish regulations continue to focus on minimum hygienic and safety requirements, thereby reflecting a pathogenic rather than salutogenic approach. While some factors—such as daylight and ventilation—are partially included, critical dimensions of psychosocial well-being remain underrepresented. By contrast, both European EN standards and voluntary frameworks such as WELL systematically incorporate broader salutogenic dimensions. Evidence from Polish POE studies further highlights gaps between regulatory compliance and actual user experiences, e.g., excessive hospital noise, insufficient lighting in operating rooms, and the absence of biophilic or therapeutic features. The discussion highlights challenges of measurability, economic feasibility, and stakeholder acceptance, while also emphasizing long-term health and social benefits. The conclusions recommend incorporating salutogenic principles into Polish law and sustainability policies, promoting pilot projects, and strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration. In this way, buildings can evolve from merely preventing harm to actively supporting health, well-being, and resilience—aligning with global trends in human-centered sustainable design. Full article

In recent years, European and national policies on energy efficiency and sustainable construction have promoted a profound rethinking of building practices and strategies for upgrading the existing building stock. With the conversion of Law Decree No. 34 of 19 May 2020 (Decreto Rilancio) into Law No. 77 of 17 July 2020, and of Law Decree No. 76 of 16 July 2020 (Decreto Semplificazioni) into Law No. 120 of 11 September 2020, the tax deduction rate was increased to 110% for expenses related to specific interventions such as seismic risk reduction, energy retrofit, installation of photovoltaic systems, and charging infrastructures for electric vehicles in buildings—commonly known as the Superbonus 110%. Furthermore, the category of “building renovation,” as defined in Presidential Decree No. 380 of 6 June 2001 (art. 3, paragraph 1, letter d), was expanded with specific reference to demolition and reconstruction of existing buildings, allowing—under certain conditions—interventions that do not comply with the original footprint, façades, site layout, volumetric features, or typological characteristics. These measures were designed not only to positively affect household investment levels, thereby significantly contributing to national income growth, but also to support the broader objective of decarbonising the building sector while improving seismic safety. Within this regulatory and policy framework, instruments such as the Superbonus 110% have acted as a driving force for the diffusion of renovation projects aimed at enhancing energy performance and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). This paper is situated within such a context and examines a real-world case of bio-based renovation admitted to fiscal incentives under the Superbonus 110%. The focus is placed on the procedural framework as well as on the technical, economic, and evaluative aspects, adopting a multidimensional perspective that combines regulatory, operational, and financial considerations. The case study concerns the demolition and reconstruction of a single-family residential chalet, designed according to near-Zero-Energy Building (nZEB) standards, located in the municipality of San Roberto, in the province of Reggio Calabria. The intervention is set within an environmentally and culturally sensitive area, being situated in the Aspromonte National Park and subject to landscape protection restrictions under Article 142 of Legislative Decree No. 42/2004. The aim of the study is to highlight, through the analysis of this case, both the opportunities and the challenges of applying the Superbonus 110% in protected contexts. By doing so, it seeks to contribute to the scientific debate on the interplay between incentive-based regulations, energy sustainability, and landscape–environmental protection requirements, while providing insights for academics, practitioners, and policymakers engaged in the ecological transition of the construction sector. Full article

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) affects more than 39 million people worldwide, with Uganda ranked 10th among countries with the highest number of cases. As new preventative HIV injectables emerge, it is vital to think about how best to tailor strategies to promote these injectable drugs, like PrEP and vaccines, when available, to the different populations most in need. Discrete choice experiments (DCEs) are economics-derived methods used to determine factors that influence engagement in a certain behavior. Objective: This study used a DCE to determine the preferences for a preventative HIV injectable drugs/vaccines among people at risk of HIV acquisition in urban and peri-urban areas of Uganda. Methods: In June 2024, we implemented a cross-sectional DCE survey in three urban sites in Uganda in English and Luganda. The survey collected information on demographics, HIV risk, vaccine confidence and responses to the 13 injection product choice tasks presented to determine preferences. We used community-based, respondent-driven sampling methods to recruit participants from three key populations: (1) female sex workers; (2) people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender; and (3) young women (18–24 years). We collected the data on tablets using the Sawtooth Lighthouse Studio software (v. 19.15.6), taking into consideration privacy and confidentiality, given the sensitivity of the information and recent governmental policies in Uganda. Data were analyzed using a split-sample mixed logit regression analysis. The study was approved by local ethical regulatory bodies. Results: From the total of 406 participants screened for this study, 376 participants met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis (85 young women, 159 female sex workers, and 132 who identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender). The average age was 23.7 (SD: 5.7). The majority of participants had received some secondary school or vocational school (202, 53.7%) The attributes that explained the preferences were primarily severe compared to mild side effects (β: −0.69, 95% CI: −0.78, −0.60), a 30% increase in vaccine/drug effectiveness (β: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.34, 0.44), and a 50,000 UGX (or USD ~13.64) increase in cost (β: −0.22, 95% CI: −0.27, −0.17). There were no significant differences between the preferences for different injectable types. The sensitivity analyses suggested potential differences in preferences by the amount of help participants received from research assistants when completing the survey, although not by income level. Conclusions: Side effects had the greatest impact on participants’ preferences for injectable HIV prevention methods, followed closely by effectiveness and cost. It is therefore essential to develop affordable or free prevention options with minimal side effects. Policymakers should focus on reducing the financial barriers to access and emphasize transparent communication about the effectiveness and safety of these injectables in health promotion campaigns to maximize adoption and improve public health outcomes. Full article

Cucumis sativus L. is a globally important vegetable crop that occupies a significant position in protected agriculture due to its high nutritional value, short cultivation cycle, and considerable economic benefits. As a cold-sensitive plant, however, cucumber is highly susceptible to low-temperature stress. which can severely inhibit growth and development, hinder seed germination, and reduce photosynthetic efficiency. Under low-temperature stress, cucumber plants typically incur damage to cellular membrane structures, experience an accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), exhibit a disruption in hormonal homeostasis, and suffer from the inhibition of pivotal metabolic pathways. In response, cucumber plants activate an array of resistance mechanisms, encompassing osmotic adjustment, reinforcement of the antioxidant system, and modulation of cold-responsive gene expression. This review summarizes the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying cucumber’s response to low-temperature stress, aiming to provide effective strategies for improving abiotic stress resistance. The main findings are as follows: (1) Low-temperature stress damages cucumber cell membranes, suppresses photosynthesis and respiration, suppresses water and nutrient uptake/transport, and suppresses growth retardation. (2) Cucumber counters these adverse effects by orchestrating the accumulation of osmoregulators (e.g., soluble sugars, proline), activating activation defenses (e.g., SOD, CAT), and rebalancing its phytohormone network (e.g., ABA, GA, SA, ethylene). (3) At the molecular level, cucumber activates low-temperature-responsive genes (e.g., COR, GoIS) through transcription factors such as CBF, MYB, and WRKY, thereby enhancing cold tolerance. (4) Application of exogenous protectants (e.g., hydrogen sulfide, melatonin, oligosaccharides) significantly improves cucumber’s low-temperature tolerance by modulating the antioxidant system, promoting osmoregulatory substances accumulation, and regulating hormone signaling pathways. Future research should focus on elucidating the molecular regulatory network in cucumber under low-temperature stress and developing gene editing with multi-omics techniques to advance the development of cold-resistant cultivars and cultivation practices. This study offers a scientific foundation for research on cucumber cold tolerance and proposes potential solutions to agricultural challenges in the context of global climate change. Full article

The integration of smart medical devices (SMDs) driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of medical things (IoMT) is revolutionizing healthcare through improved diagnostics and continuous monitoring. However, their deployment raises significant ethical concerns, including patient safety, data privacy, informed consent, fairness, bias, and regulatory compliance. This paper presents a structured prioritization framework that assesses these ethical considerations according to their severity, contextual impact, and relevance to clinical practice. The usefulness of this prioritization lies in its ability to guide stakeholders to focus on high-impact areas, ensuring that resources and interventions address the most critical ethical risks first. Targeted mitigation strategies support the application of this framework in practice. By aligning innovation with ethical responsibility, this approach promotes safer, fairer, and more reliable healthcare solutions. This ultimately enables the sustainable and socially responsible integration of SMDs into modern medical systems. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dietary supplement (DS) use has become increasingly prevalent among adult athletes worldwide and carries both potential benefits and risks. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and perspectives of DS use among adult athletes attending fitness centers in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out between November and December 2024 using self-administered online questionnaires distributed through a convenience sampling method utilizing social media platforms. All adult athletes aged 18 and above currently residing in Saudi Arabia were included. Results: Results indicate that 73.9% of athletes use DS, primarily to address self-reported perceived vitamin/mineral deficiencies (62.0%) and to enhance energy availability (45.8%). The most frequently reported DS used by the responded were vitamins and minerals (77.3%), followed by fish oils (57.3%) and proteins (42.7%). The predominant adverse effects reported were changes in urine color (27.4%) and frequent urination (18.0%). Most supplements were consumed orally (78.4%), once daily (40.7%), or according to individual needs (26.7%), with dosage most often determined by a physician or pharmacist (35.1%). The mean perception score of DS effects on health outcomes was 3.69 ± 0.98, with a significant association with age (p = 0.041). Conclusions: This study highlights the increasing reliance on DS among athletes in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the need for public health interventions that promote safe and informed use of DS. While our study’s use of convenience sampling may limit their generalizability, the findings still provide important insights into current practices and perceptions. Future research should focus on regulatory measures and educational campaigns to mitigate risks and optimize benefits. Our results have significant implications for public health policy and practice. Full article

Gene editing technologies, particularly CRISPR/Cas9, have revolutionized livestock genetics. They enable precise, efficient, and inheritable genome modifications. This review summarizes recent advances in the application of gene editing in livestock. We focus on six key areas: enhancement of disease resistance, improvement of growth performance and meat production traits, modification of milk composition, regulation of reproductive traits, adaptation to environmental stress, and promotion of animal welfare. For example, they have played an important role in improving mastitis resistance in cows, enhancing meat production performance in pigs, increasing milk yield in goats, and producing polled cows. Despite rapid progress, practical implementation in animal breeding still faces challenges. These include off-target effects, low embryo editing efficiency, delivery limitations, and ethical as well as regulatory constraints. Future directions emphasize the development of advanced editing tools, multiplex trait integration, and harmonized public policy. With continued innovation and responsible oversight, gene editing holds great promise for sustainable animal agriculture and global food security. Full article

N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A) is the most abundant and dynamic RNA modification in eukaryotic messenger and non-coding RNAs, playing a pivotal role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. The coordinated actions of m⁶A writers, erasers, and readers influence transcript stability, immune activation, and pathogen suppression. Growing evidence indicates that m⁶A fine-tunes the expression of defense-related genes, modulates RNA processing events, and is frequently hijacked by pathogens and pests to promote virulence. Notably, the dual role of m⁶A in enhancing plant defense and facilitating pathogen adaptation highlights its significance in the host–pathogen arms race. This review emphasizes recent advances in our understanding of m⁶A-mediated epitranscriptomic regulation in plants, with a focus on its role in responses to biotic stresses, including fungi, bacteria, virus infections, insects, and nematode attacks. This regulatory layer offers novel opportunities for crop protection through targeted manipulation of the epitranscriptomic mechanism. Full article

Background: Degenerative, metabolic and oncologic diseases are scarcely amenable to the complete reconstruction of tissue structure and functionalities using common therapeutic modalities. On the nanoscale, extracellular vesicles (EVs) and nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as attractive candidates in regenerative and personalised medicine. However, EV transfection is hindered by its heterogeneity and low yield, while NPs suffer from cytotoxicity, immunogenicity, and long-term safety issues. Scope of Review: This review synthesises data from over 180 studies as part of a narrative synthesis, critically evaluating the disease-specific utility, mechanistic insights, and translational obstacles. The focus is laid on comparative cytotoxicity profiles, the capacities of hybrid EV–NP systems to circumvent mutual shortcomings, and the increasing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on predictive modelling, as well as toxicity appraisal and manufacturing. Key Insights: EVs have inherent biocompatibility, immune evasive and organotropic signalling functions; NPs present structural flexibility, adjustable physicochemical properties, and industrial scalability. Common molecular pathways for NP toxicity, such as ROS production, MAPK and JAK/STAT activation, autophagy, and apoptosis, are significant biomarkers for regulatory platforms. Nanotechnological and biomimetic nanocarriers incorporate biological tropism with engineering control to enhance therapeutic efficacy, as well as their translational potential. AI approaches can support rational drug design, promote reproducibility across laboratories, and meet safe-by-design requirements. Conclusions: The intersection of EVs, NPs and AI signifies a turning point in regenerative nanomedicine. To advance this field, there is a need for convergence on experimental protocols, the adoption of mechanistic biomarkers, and regulatory alignment to ensure reproducibility and clinical competence. If realised, these endeavours will not only transition nanoscale medicament design from experimental constructs into reliable and patient-specific tools for clinical trials, but we also have the strong expectation that they could revolutionise future treatments of challenging human disorders. Full article

The resource utilization of swine manure represents a critical pathway for advancing sustainable agricultural development. This study, based on survey data from 509 swine farmers in Sichuan Province, employs the Ordered Probit (Oprobit) model and the Conditional Mixed Process (CMP) model to analyze the mechanisms and pathways through which cognition about manure treatment, environmental regulation, and their interaction influence farmers’ behaviors towards manure resource utilization. It further delves into the heterogeneous characteristics of influencing factors. The findings reveal the following: (1) Farmers possess a high level of cognition regarding manure treatment, while environmental regulation is moderately implemented. The principal methods of manure resource utilization focus on recycling to fields and organic fertilizer production, with over 95% of farmers adopting at least one method of resource utilization. (2) Both cognition of manure treatment and environmental regulation significantly promote the behavior of manure resource utilization. There are substitutive or complementary effects between moral cognition and constraint regulation, as well as capability cognition and guidance regulation. (3) Among the farming community, the behavior of large-scale farmers is mainly influenced by moral cognition, whereas non-large-scale farmers are more affected by capability cognition and guidance regulation; middle-aged and young farmers are predominantly influenced by capability cognition, incentives, and guidance regulation, whereas the older generation of farmers is driven more by moral cognition and guidance regulation. Based on these insights, this study proposes targeted strategies for enhancing cognition and regulatory alignment across different groups, aiming to elevate the level of manure resource utilization and promote the green transformation of livestock farming. Full article

Food spoilage and contamination remain pressing global challenges, undermining food security and safety while driving economic losses. Conventional preservation strategies, including thermal treatments, refrigeration, and synthetic additives, often compromise nutritional quality and raise sustainability concerns, thereby necessitating natural, effective alternatives. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa, has demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, making it a promising candidate for food preservation. However, its poor solubility, instability, and low bioavailability limit direct applications in food systems. Advances in nanotechnology have enabled the development of nanoformulated curcumin, enhancing solubility, stability, controlled release, and functional efficacy. This review examines the antimicrobial mechanisms of curcumin and its nanoformulations, including membrane disruption, oxidative stress via reactive oxygen species, quorum sensing inhibition, and biofilm suppression. Applications in active and smart packaging are highlighted, where curcumin nanoformulation not only extends shelf life but also enables freshness monitoring through pH-responsive color changes. Evidence across meats, seafood, fruits, dairy, and beverages shows improved microbial safety, oxidative stability, and sensory quality. Multifunctional systems, such as hybrid composites and stimuli-responsive carriers, represent next-generation tools for sustainable packaging. However, challenges remain with scale-up, migration safety, cytotoxicity, and potential promotion of antimicrobial resistance gene (ARG) transfer. Future research should focus on safety validation, advanced nanocarriers, ARG-aware strategies, and regulatory frameworks. Overall, nanoformulated curcumin offers a natural, versatile, and eco-friendly approach to food preservation that aligns with clean-label consumer demand. Full article

Objectives: This review examines the role of oxidative stress in the survival, apoptosis, and therapy resistance of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells, with a focus on how redox imbalance influences tumour progression and treatment outcomes. Methods: A literature search was conducted in Scopus using the keywords head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and antioxidant systems. Articles published in English were included, without restrictions on publication year. Reviews, clinical studies, and experimental research addressing oxidative stress mechanisms in HNSCC were considered, while non-English papers and studies unrelated to HNSCC were excluded. Key Findings: ROS exhibit dual effects in HNSCC, promoting tumour growth and DNA damage while also inducing apoptosis through molecular interactions. Elevated ROS contribute to drug resistance by inhibiting apoptosis, altering autophagy, and enhancing proliferation. Cancer cells counteract this via adaptive antioxidant responses involving transcriptional regulation and upregulation of enzymatic defences. Major risk factors for HNSCC—alcohol, tobacco, and high-risk HPV infection—disrupt redox homeostasis, underscoring the central role of oxidative stress in both carcinogenesis and therapy response. Conclusions: Oxidative stress plays a context-dependent role in HNSCC progression and treatment resistance. Targeting redox-regulatory pathways may provide therapeutic benefit. This review synthesizes recent insights on ROS-mediated mechanisms, highlighting potential strategies for improving HNSCC management beyond existing literature. Full article