Search Results (11,501)

This study evaluated the combined application of biochar (BC) and Spirulina platensis (SP) as a sustainable strategy to improve soil quality and salinity tolerance in mint (Mentha longifolia L.) cultivated in sandy soils. A pot experiment was conducted using saline irrigation water (5 dS m⁻¹) with four treatments: control, BC alone, SP alone, and BC + SP applied at 1% (w/w), arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Salt stress reduced plant height and biomass yield by 16% and 27%, respectively, and increased sodium (Na⁺) in shoots by 74%, causing ionic imbalance and decreased soil microbial biomass carbon by 19%. The combined BC + SP treatment significantly improved soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) by 100%, reduced soil Na⁺ by 41%, and enhanced K⁺/Na⁺ and Ca²⁺/Na⁺ ratios by 138% and 133%, respectively. Under salinity, BC + SP increased nutrient concentrations in mint shoots, including N (120%), P (106%), K (88%), Ca (67%), Fe (70%), Mn (50%), Zn (44%), and Cu (70%), and improved leaf chlorophyll content. These results demonstrate that BC and SP synergistically mitigate salinity stress by improving soil properties, nutrient uptake, and ionic balance, making BC + SP a promising sustainable amendment for saline sandy soils. Full article

Mercury (Hg) pollution has led to a serious decline in crop yields. Methyl jasmonate (MJ), as a plant hormone, regulates plant responses to heavy metal stress. Nonetheless, the pathways by which MJ modulates Hg tolerance in plants are still not well elucidated. Our study aimed to elucidate the positive impacts of MJ in alleviating Hg-induced toxicity in maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings using an integrated approach combining physiological assessments and transcriptomic analysis. The findings indicated that exogenous MJ mitigated Hg-induced inhibition of photosynthetic performance by up-regulating photosynthesis-related and light-harvesting-related genes and increasing chlorophyll content. Under Hg stress, MJ enhances proline accumulation in maize seedlings by up-regulating essential genes in the proline biosynthesis pathway and down-regulating critical genes in the proline degradation pathway. MJ also elevates the expression of key enzymes involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis in maize seedlings, decreases malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and enhances root vitality. In addition, MJ may exert a detoxification effect on maize seedlings under Hg stress by regulating the expression of various genes linked to basic nutrient transport proteins, as well as those involved in the transport, influx, and distribution of metal ions. These findings indicate that MJ is essential for enhancing plant tolerance to Hg stress, thereby establishing a theoretical framework for the advancement and utilization of environmentally friendly agricultural methods involving plant hormones. Full article

Tobacco smoking is closely associated with pro-inflammatory immunological alterations, whereas regular physical exercise is well known to lower systemic inflammations and related immune cell activities. The combined effects of smoking, nicotine pouch use, vaping, and exercise on individual immunological responses remain incompletely understood, especially in view of alternative nicotine delivery systems. In this study, we analyzed the immediate impact of different nicotine sources on exercise monocyte subsets in 16 human subjects using a four-arm cross-over design. Distribution of circulating CD14/CD16 monocyte subsets and expression of the monocytic checkpoint molecule PD-L1 (programmed cell death ligand-1) were analysed via whole blood flow cytometry measurements. Plasma cytokines were evaluated using membrane-based cytokine arrays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Data revealed significant distributions of circulating monocytes subsets in response to nicotine consumption and physical stress. In contrast, exercise-driven increased monocytic PD-L1 was clearly attenuated following the consumption various nicotine delivery systems. Furthermore, significantly increased plasma growth hormone levels were detected in response to physical stress in combination with cigarette consumption. Our data clearly illustrates a significant influence of nicotine consumption on the cellular characteristics of circulating monocyte subsets and on proper exercise-driven immune responses within a short period of time, which makes the widespread trivialization of alternative nicotine sources questionable. Full article

Ecological factors directly influence the growth and metabolism of tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.), and unfavorable environmental conditions cause abiotic stress to them. Abiotic stress causes damage to reliable, high-quality, and safe tea production, yet the optimal ecological conditions for enhancing both yield and quality remain unclear. To investigate the response patterns of shoot growth to ecological factors and its relationship with catechin accumulation, this study conducted the cultivation of tea plants with a precise modulation of both individual and combined ecological parameters. Under 30 °C and 90% air humidity, specific combinations of light intensity and substrate relative humidity (“250 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ + 65%” or “350 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ + 70%”) significantly enhanced growth and yield. A significant correlation between shoot growth and catechin accumulation was observed, and mathematical models further revealed a synergistic response between shoot growth capacity and total catechin content to ecological factors. Furthermore, co-expression analysis indicated that catechin biosynthesis-related genes exhibited coordinated expression with key growth-related genes, including CsTCP, CsErf, and CsXth. In conclusion, these findings identify optimal ecological conditions to mitigate abiotic stress and reveal a synergistic relationship between catechin biosynthesis and shoot growth, providing an ecological basis for balancing yield and quality in tea production. Full article

The safety of coastal structures is a growing global concern due to the combined effects of strong tides and river flow. In this study, the local scour around cylinders under the influence of tides combined with river flows was investigated numerically. When only tidal current is considered, the distribution of vorticity and excess shear stress on the bed varies periodically with the inflow velocity. The scour depth gradually increased. When coupling the river flow and tidal current, the scour depth on the river side is 1.3 times deeper than that on the tide side; the relative scour depth (the ratio of scour depth to pile diameter, S/D) deepened linearly with the increase of river flow intensity. In the river–tide-coupled condition, the impact of river flow on scour is greater under fixed-bed conditions than under movable-bed conditions. Under fixed-bed conditions, the maximum scour depth in the river–tide-coupled case is 3.94 times larger than that in the tide case. The relative scour depth gradually decreased with the increase in the relative diameter of the cylinder. The scour hole becomes more asymmetric with the increased cylinder diameter. The scour process became slower and the scour rate was smaller when tidal periods increased. The findings supplement the mechanism of local scour under river–tide coupling and provide guiding significance for pile foundation protection in an estuary. Full article

Background: Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the SERPINA1 gene, leading to reduced levels or impaired alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) function. This condition predominantly affects the lungs and liver. The Z allele, a specific mutation in the SERPINA1 gene, is the most severe form and results in the production of misfolded AAT proteins. The misfolded proteins accumulate in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of liver cells, triggering ER stress and activating the unfolded protein response (UPR), a cellular mechanism designed to restore ER homeostasis. Currently, there is limited knowledge regarding specific nutritional recommendations for patients with AATD. The liver is essential for the regulation of zinc homeostasis, with zinc widely recognized for its hepatoprotective properties. However, the effects of AATD on zinc metabolism remain poorly understood. Similarly, the potential benefits of zinc supplementation for individuals with AATD have not been thoroughly investigated. Objective: This study explored the relationship between AATD and zinc metabolism through a combination of in vitro experiments and computational analysis. Results: The expression of the mutant Z variant of ATT (ATZ) in cultured mouse hepatocytes was associated with decreased labile zinc levels in cells and dysregulation of zinc homeostasis genes. Analysis of two data series from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) revealed that mice expressing ATZ (PiZ mice), a murine model of AATD, exhibited significant differences in mRNA levels related to zinc homeostasis and UPR when compared to wildtype mice. Bayesian network analysis of GEO data uncovered novel gene-to-gene interactions among zinc transporters, as well as between zinc homeostasis, UPR, and other associated genes. Conclusions: The findings provide valuable insights into the role of zinc homeostasis genes in UPR processes linked to AATD. Full article

This study investigates how visual environmental factors influence wayfinding behavior in underground spaces, with a particular focus on cultural differences between Korean and Chinese college students. A virtual reality (VR) environment was developed using Unity3D to simulate an underground space, incorporating five key visual variables: passage width, brightness, color temperature (warm vs. cool), the presence or absence of obstacles, and the configuration of sign systems. Participants were divided into two groups—Korean (Group K) and Chinese (Group C)—and engaged in a VR-based wayfinding experiment followed by an emotional vocabulary evaluation. The results indicate significant cultural differences in spatial perception and navigation preferences. Chinese participants preferred narrower, brighter, and cool-colored passages, associating them with an improved sense of direction, lower stress, and enhanced attention. In contrast, Korean participants favored wider, darker, and warm-colored passages, valuing accessibility, stability, and distance perception. Both groups showed a strong preference for environments with floor signage and combined sign systems, though Korean participants were more tolerant of obstacles. These findings provide practical insights for designing more inclusive and navigable underground public spaces across different cultural contexts. Full article

An important aspect of lithium-ion batteries related to lifetime and aging is the change in state within the cells, which results from the expansion of the electrode materials and causes internal stress during operation. In this work, fiber optical sensors by means of Bragg gratings are utilized to determine the internal strain in the anode material. The collected data were employed to approximate aging-related changes in anode strain using a combination of established methods, such as the differential voltage and incremental capacity analysis. Moreover, additional methodologies are proposed and explored, substituting electrical data with optical strain measurements to quantify degradation effects linked to changes in strain. During the cycling of the cell, changes in the strain behavior have been observed and can be partially attributed to changes in the cell’s electrochemical composition. The methods suggested have proven effective in providing additional insights into the current state of the cells and tracking changes over time due to detected degradation effects. Full article

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease characterised by increased oxidative stress, the overproliferation of keratinocytes, the accumulation of inflammatory mediators, and a damaged skin barrier. Although a number of therapeutic options are available, well-tolerated and patient-friendly treatments over the long term remain a challenge. Tapinarof, a new type of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) modulator, has recently come into the spotlight as a promising nonsteroidal alternative. However, its application may be limited by poor water solubility and low skin penetration. Nanotechnology-based drug carriers, specially nanogels, offer new possibilities to overcome these limitations, combining the advantages of targeted drug delivery and enhanced skin penetration. Furthermore, nanogel formulations can improve skin hydration and support the restoration of skin barrier function, which is importance in the treatment of psoriasis. This review focuses on current and emerging therapeutic approaches, with particular emphasis on the potential of using tapinarof incorporated into nanogel formulations as a novel alternative for topical psoriasis treatment. Full article

In this study, the migratory agricultural pest Spodoptera frugiperda was exposed to three periodic short-term heat stress regimes at 37 °C, 40 °C, and 43 °C (2 h daily), with a constant 26 °C control. We systematically evaluated the effects of periodic thermal stress on developmental traits across all life stages. Combined with 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing, we analyzed the structural and functional characteristics of the gut bacterial community in adults under heat stress. The results demonstrated that 37 °C exposure accelerated egg-to-adult development, whereas 43 °C markedly extended it. Additionally, 43 °C heat stress suppressed pupation and eclosion rates. Increasing stress temperatures were negatively correlated with pupal weight and body size in both sexes. Notably, 43 °C heat stress caused complete loss of hatching ability in offspring eggs, thereby rendering population reproduction unattainable. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that Proteobacteria (>90%) dominated the gut bacterial community at the phylum level across all treatments. Under 43 °C heat stress, although female and male adults exhibited an increase in specific bacterial species within their gut bacteria, Alpha diversity analysis revealed no significant differences in the diversity (Shannon index) and richness (Chao index) of gut bacterial communities between sexes under temperature treatments. PICRUSt2 functional prediction indicated that metabolic pathways, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and microbial metabolism in diverse environments constituted the dominant functions of gut bacteria in both sexes, while heat stress exerted minimal effects on the functional profiles of gut bacteria in S. frugiperda. These findings not only provide a theoretical basis for predicting summer population dynamics and formulating ecological control strategies for S. frugiperda but also offer critical insights into the adaptive interactions between this pest and its gut bacterial community under heat stress. The results lay a foundation for further exploring the interactions between insect environmental adaptability and bacterial symbiosis. Full article

Olive oil (OO) has longstanding significance in human history, particularly in the Mediterranean region, where it has been a cornerstone of diet, economy, and culture. This history adds to modern evidence-based knowledge. Background: The Mediterranean diet (MD), rich in plant-based foods and OO, has been extensively associated with improved cardiometabolic and cognitive health. Recent interest has emerged in understanding how intermittent fasting protocols may enhance these effects. Still, the quality of OO does not only lie in the extraction process; it is also dependent on the tree variety, the soil, and the agricultural practices, ending with the way in which the finished product is stored and consumed. Objectives: This review explores the synergistic potential between OO consumption and intermittent fasting, focusing on their combined impact on metabolic health, oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathways. Methods: A literature search was conducted using multiple databases to identify studies addressing the health effects of OO, fasting, and the MD. Both human and relevant preclinical studies were considered, with emphasis on those evaluating inflammatory markers, lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and neuroprotective mechanisms. Results: Evidence suggests that the bioactive compounds in EVOO may potentiate the benefits of fasting by enhancing antioxidant capacity, reducing postprandial inflammation, and modulating gene expression related to cellular metabolism. Combined, these factors may support improved insulin sensitivity, reduced oxidative damage, and delayed onset of age-related diseases. Conclusions: Understanding the integrative role of OO and fasting within the MD framework could offer valuable insights for nutritional strategies aimed at preventing metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and neurodegeneration. These findings also support the need for future clinical trials exploring the timing, dosage, and dietary context in which these interventions are most effective. Full article

Acute phase proteins (APPs) are part of the innate immune response, changing during inflammation. An Acute Phase Index (API) is a calculated value that combines multiple APPs. In human medicine, the introduction of APIs has improved outcome monitoring. In veterinary medicine, APIs have been evaluated in livestock and dogs with Leishmaniasis. This study aimed to calculate an API and evaluate its significance in cancer-bearing dogs. Sera were collected from 55 dogs, which were classified by neoplastic category and survival times (> or < than 30 and 90 days). For 32 dogs, multiple samples were available. The API included C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and haptoglobin as positive APPs, and albumin and Paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) as negative APPs. An alternative API excluding PON-1 was calculated. PON-1 levels were lower in round-cell tumors, suggesting increased oxidative stress. Moreover, API increased and PON-1 activity decreased in the last sample in dogs that died before the end of the study. Dogs with shorter survival times showed increased APIs and CRP levels. APIs with and without PON-1 greater than 0.049 and 0.202 at the first sampling were associated with a 3.7- and 4.4-fold higher probability of death, respectively. These results suggest a potential prognostic value of API in dogs with neoplasia. Full article

Antioxidants neutralize reactive oxygen species and free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage and maintaining cellular homeostasis. In cancer therapy, they play a complex dual role, serving as protective agents against oxidative stress while, under certain conditions, acting as pro-oxidants that may promote tumorigenesis and resistance to treatment. Redox regulation is governed by key antioxidant pathways, such as the BACH1 and NRF2 pathways, along with transcriptional factors that significantly affect cancer progression and immunotherapy response. In addition to their intracellular effects, antioxidants modulate the tumor microenvironment, including interactions with the extracellular matrix, which impact cancer cell behavior and therapeutic responses. This review also explores preclinical studies that investigate the roles of major antioxidants in cancer biology. While these studies present promising data, significant challenges persist, including the potential for antioxidants to interfere with standard cancer treatments or to inadvertently support tumor survival. We further highlight emerging strategies aimed at optimizing antioxidant therapy, including personalized medicine approaches, nanoparticle-based delivery systems, and combination treatments with immunotherapies and targeted therapies. By examining the therapeutic potential and associated risks of antioxidants, this review provides critical insights into their role in cancer treatment and offers a roadmap for advancing antioxidant-based strategies to improve clinical outcomes. Full article

The genus Trichoderma comprises a group of fungi known for their beneficial effects on plant growth and stress tolerance. Light is a key environmental factor affecting many plant physiological processes. However, a significant research gap remains regarding the interaction between light quality and Trichoderma harzianum inoculation, particularly their combined effects on tomato plant growth and photosynthetic efficiency. Here, we showed that T. harzianum inoculation effectively alleviated the growth inhibition caused by monochromatic red light or blue light in tomato plants. Combined red and blue light treatment with T. harzianum inoculation (RBT) promoted root development by regulating the rational distribution of carbon assimilation products. Specifically, the RBT treatment upregulated the expression of photosynthesis-related genes, including key Calvin cycle enzyme genes such as FBPase, FBPA, TPI, and SBPase, as well as the light signal transduction factor HY5. In addition, T. harzianum inoculation increased the maximal photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm), and the net photosynthetic rate (Pn). The activity of sucrose synthetase (SS) and sucrose phosphate synthetase (SPS) was also enhanced, promoting photosynthetic product accumulation in leaves and roots. Among all treatment groups, RBT performed the best in the above indexes. Full article

Metabolic and inflammatory stress during early lactation poses significant risks to dairy cow health and productivity. This study aimed to assess the physiological, metabolic, and inflammatory differences between dairy cows producing low (LL; <4.5%) and high (HL; ≥4.5%) milk lactose, focusing on C-reactive protein (CRP), liver function markers, iron metabolism, and reticulorumen health. A total of 71 clinically healthy lactating multiparous cows (20–30 days postpartum) were monitored using real-time physiological sensors, milk composition analysis, blood biomarkers and continuous reticulorumen pH measurement (every 10 min). Cows in the LL group showed significantly higher aspartate transaminase (AST) activity (p = 0.042), lower serum iron (Fe) concentration (p = 0.013), and reduced reticulorumen pH (p = 0.03). Although CRP concentrations did not differ significantly between groups, correlation analysis revealed positive associations with non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) (r = 0.335, p = 0.043), reticulorumen pH (r = 0.498, p = 0.002), and body temperature (r = 0.372, p = 0.023). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis identified gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (AUC = 0.66), AST (AUC = 0.63), and NEFA (AUC = 0.58) as moderate predictors of low milk lactose levels. Conversely, Fe (AUC = 0.66) and reticulorumen pH (AUC = 0.64) showed moderate ability to predict higher lactose content. These results support the integration of milk lactose, liver enzymes, and inflammatory biomarkers into precision health monitoring protocols. The combined use of CRP and milk lactose as complementary biomarkers may enhance the early identification of metabolic stress and support more targeted dairy herd health management. Full article