Life

28 pages, 745 KB

Open AccessReview

Siberian Sturgeon (Acipenser baerii, Brandt, 1869) the Relationship Between Genetic Resources and Acclimatization: Ecology, Conservation, and the Nutritional Significance of Meat and Caviar

by Cătălina Teodora Cîrmaciu (Florea), Cătălin Emilian Nistor, Gabriel-Vasile Hoha and Benone Păsărin

Life 2026, 16(9), 1437; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091437 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

The Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii, Brandt, 1869) is a potamodromous freshwater species with major ecological and commercial importance. Natural populations across the main Siberian River basins have declined so severely that the species is now classified as Critically Endangered on the [...] Read more.

The Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii, Brandt, 1869) is a potamodromous freshwater species with major ecological and commercial importance. Natural populations across the main Siberian River basins have declined so severely that the species is now classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. This narrative analysis synthesizes current scientific knowledge regarding the ecology, reproductive biology, conservation status, and nutritional value of products derived from A. baerii, with the aim of providing an integrated perspective on this species, which has recently been introduced into Romanian aquaculture and occupies the interface between biodiversity and human consumption needs. The species’ remarkable ecological and morphological plasticity, which underlies its wide natural distribution in the Ob, Irtysh, Yenisei, and Lena River basins, has also made it the dominant species in global sturgeon aquaculture, commercially farmed in Europe, Asia, and South America. Reproductive management in farming systems relies on hormonal induction, non-invasive maturity assessment, and controlled hatchery practices, while emerging no-kill technologies enable repeated caviar harvesting without sacrificing the female, improving both ethical standards and economic efficiency. From a nutritional standpoint, A. baerii yields two high-value products: caviar, a rich source of the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids EPA and DHA, whose dietary intake has been associated with cardiovascular and neurodevelopmental benefits in the broader nutrition literature, and meat, characterized by high-biological-value protein, a favorable amino acid profile, and significant omega-3 content. By-products such as skin, swim bladders, glands, and cartilage contribute to the higher-value utilization of the species within the circular bioeconomy. Still, notable gaps remain in genetics and sex determination methods, in early life behavioral ecology, and in cryopreservation protocols. Future work should also look at more sustainable feed formulations and new value-added products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Fish Nutrition, Production Technology, and Welfare)

25 pages, 2157 KB

Open AccessReview

The Emergence of an Urable Earth: How Early Planetary Evolution Shaped the Chemical Window for Life’s Origin

by Meng Guo, Zekun Meng, Siyu Liu and Simon A. T. Redfern

Life 2026, 16(9), 1436; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091436 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

Earth’s early history provides the only natural record for evaluating how planetary evolution can generate environments capable of initiating life. Here we review early Earth evolution through the lens of urability: the time-dependent capacity of planetary environments to support prebiotic chemistry progressing toward [...] Read more.

Earth’s early history provides the only natural record for evaluating how planetary evolution can generate environments capable of initiating life. Here we review early Earth evolution through the lens of urability: the time-dependent capacity of planetary environments to support prebiotic chemistry progressing toward compartmentalized, self-propagating, information-bearing systems. We argue that urability is not a single globally habitable state, but a transient overlap among several coupled dimensions: liquid water availability, permissive temperature, ocean pH and salinity, access to bioessential elements, atmospheric shielding and volatile retention, and exposed or shallow environments that enable concentration, mineral catalysis, and wet–dry cycling. During the Hadean–early Archean transition, these dimensions were shaped by magma-ocean degassing, late accretion history, atmospheric compositional evolution from CO₂-rich to more N₂-dominated states, ferruginous ocean chemistry, tectonic recycling, continental growth, and intermittent land emergence. These processes created tradeoffs: high pCO₂ may have enhanced abiotic nitrogen fixation but imposed hot and acidic conditions, whereas CO₂ drawdown improved climate and ocean pH while weakening some fixed-nitrogen sources; ferruginous chemistry could locally enhance phosphate availability while also promoting nutrient scavenging; and tectonic recycling could stabilize the carbon cycle while generating chemically diverse but spatially intermittent land environments. We therefore frame life’s origin as a planetary timing problem, in which prebiotic opportunities opened and closed as multiple environmental constraints came into and out of overlap. This perspective motivates coupled models that resolve when and where water, temperature, pH, nutrients, energy, atmospheric photochemistry, and exposed land surfaces jointly produced urable environments on Earth and other rocky planets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Evolutionary Pathways to Origins of Life)

17 pages, 6634 KB

Open AccessArticle

Untargeted LC–MS/MS Metabolite Profiling of Wild, Field-Domesticated and Tissue-Cultured Rhizomes of the Endangered Medicinal Fern Cibotium barometz

by Yezhen Su, Guole Qin, Changqin Zhou, Delong Guan and Jing Song

Life 2026, 16(9), 1435; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091435 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

Cibotium barometz (Gouji) is a widely prescribed traditional medicine whose supply still depends on wild-harvested rhizomes of this CITES-listed medicinal tree fern. We asked whether field domestication or tissue culture reproduces its chemical profile. Wild-collected (WP), field-domesticated (DM) and tissue-cultured (ZP) rhizomes ( [...] Read more.

Cibotium barometz (Gouji) is a widely prescribed traditional medicine whose supply still depends on wild-harvested rhizomes of this CITES-listed medicinal tree fern. We asked whether field domestication or tissue culture reproduces its chemical profile. Wild-collected (WP), field-domesticated (DM) and tissue-cultured (ZP) rhizomes (n = 3) were profiled by untargeted LC-MS/MS. Of 2828 annotated features, 2787 (98.6%) were detected in all three materials and fewer than ten were group-exclusive, indicating that differences are quantitative rather than qualitative, although this overlap partly reflects gap filling and detection limits. Replicate-level distances to the WP centroid were metric-dependent: correlation- and magnitude-based measures ranked DM closer (1 − Pearson 0.290 vs. 0.371), whereas abundance-weighted Bray–Curtis favoured ZP (0.398 vs. 0.459), consistent with PCA showing both substitutes displaced from WP along independent axes. Within nine literature-prioritized classes, ZP retained 93% of the WP response and an essentially identical organic-acid core (log₂FC = −0.01), whereas DM retained 63%, losing organic acids, alkaloids, nucleosides and organosulfur compounds and gaining flavonoids and pterosins. N6-hydroxymethyladenosine, crotonoside and modified nucleosides are proposed as candidate authentication markers requiring validation with authentic standards. Chemical similarity alone does not establish therapeutic equivalence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 255 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hormonal Medication Effects on Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorder

by Sophia Boutouis, Megha Neelapu, Laurie Avila and Jon E. Grant

Life 2026, 16(9), 1434; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091434 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Trichotillomania (hair pulling disorder) and skin picking disorder often begin around puberty, suggesting the potential role of hormones in the etiology and maintenance of these conditions. However, little research has explored whether usage of hormonal medications, including birth control, affects symptoms in [...] Read more.

Background: Trichotillomania (hair pulling disorder) and skin picking disorder often begin around puberty, suggesting the potential role of hormones in the etiology and maintenance of these conditions. However, little research has explored whether usage of hormonal medications, including birth control, affects symptoms in people with these disorders. Methods: Two hundred and ten women with self-reported trichotillomania and/or skin picking disorder were recruited from the community if they had previously taken a hormonal medication in their lifetime. Data were collected on the perceived relationship between hormonal medication use and severity of hair pulling or skin picking. Results: While some women reported positive and/or negative effects of hormonal medications on their hair pulling (18.0%) or skin picking (17.8%), most women (approximately 82.0%) reported no change in symptoms while taking these medications. Conclusions: Sex hormones may still influence the precipitation of trichotillomania and skin picking disorder; however, they appear to have continued effects on hair pulling and skin picking in adulthood for only a subset of those with these conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Compulsive Disorder: Understanding of the Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Implications)

18 pages, 4734 KB

Open AccessArticle

Airborne Bacterial and Eukaryotic Communities in Temuco, Chile, a City Dominated by Residential Wood Combustion

by Juan Liu, So Fujiyoshi, Fumito Maruyama, Jun Noda, Tay Ruiz-Gil, Elizabeth Carrazana, Jacquelinne J. Acuña, Milko A. Jorquera, Nobutake Nakatani, Shiyuan Guo, Akihiro Sakatoku and Daisuke Tanaka

Life 2026, 16(9), 1433; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091433 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

Airborne particulate matter (PM) affects human health, especially in heavily polluted regions. This study focused on Temuco, a city dominated by residential wood combustion in southern Chile. For the first time, we characterized airborne eukaryotic microbial communities in this area, alongside a parallel [...] Read more.

Airborne particulate matter (PM) affects human health, especially in heavily polluted regions. This study focused on Temuco, a city dominated by residential wood combustion in southern Chile. For the first time, we characterized airborne eukaryotic microbial communities in this area, alongside a parallel analysis of bacterial communities, and explored their associations with water-soluble inorganic ions (WSIIs) and meteorological variables. Bacterial and eukaryotic communities were profiled using 16S and 18S rRNA gene sequencing, respectively. The results showed that the mean concentrations of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ were 75.0 and 87.7 μg/m³, respectively, with PM_2.5 exceeding the Chilean national air quality standards (PM_2.5: 50 μg/m³; PM₁₀: 130 μg/m³), highlighting the persistent fine particulate matter pollution in the region. Among the WSIIs, NO₃⁻ (5.6 μg/m³), SO₄²⁻ (2.6 μg/m³), and K⁺ (2.6 μg/m³) were the most abundant, indicating important contributions from secondary aerosol formation and residential biomass burning. At the genus level, Clostridium (6.2%), Hymenobacter (4.3%), and Sphingomonas (4.3%) dominated the bacterial communities, whereas Coriolopsis (41.0%) and Hyphodontia (26.9%) were the predominant eukaryotic taxa. Community composition differed between seasons and particle-size fractions, with seasonal variation appearing to be more pronounced. Correlation analysis and redundancy analysis (RDA) further showed relatively high loadings of SO₄²⁻ (loading = 0.7146) and temperature (Temp, loading = 0.7101) in the bacterial RDA, and of Cl⁻ (loading = −0.9054) and SO₄²⁻ (loading = −0.7176) in the eukaryotic RDA. Overall, these findings provide important insights into the ecology of atmospheric microorganisms and their potential environmental associations in a city dominated by residential wood combustion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Environmental Factors on the Diversity and Structure of Bacterial and Eukaryotic Communities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 577 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Time of Day on Critical Swimming Speed in Chronotype-Screened (Neither-Type) Well-Trained Male Swimmers

by Gökhan Tuna, Cem Kurt, Erkan Günay, Zeynep Bozdoğan Kurt, Raul Ioan Muntean, İsmail Dergaa and Halil İbrahim Ceylan

Life 2026, 16(9), 1432; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091432 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Critical swimming speed (CSS) is widely used to prescribe training and monitor endurance-related change, yet it is unclear whether its estimate varies with time of day when chronotype and relevant pre-trial conditions are considered. Purpose: To compare CSS at 09:00 [...] Read more.

Background: Critical swimming speed (CSS) is widely used to prescribe training and monitor endurance-related change, yet it is unclear whether its estimate varies with time of day when chronotype and relevant pre-trial conditions are considered. Purpose: To compare CSS at 09:00 h and 17:00 h in well-trained male swimmers with a homogeneous neither/intermediate (N-type) chronotype. Methods: Sixteen well-trained male front-crawl swimmers (age 17 ± 1 yr; height 1.78 ± 0.03 m; body mass 69.18 ± 4.56 kg; experience 11 ± 2 yr; weekly swimming volume ≈45 km) completed morning and evening sessions in a randomised, counter-balanced order, separated by 48 h. Each session comprised a 50 m trial followed by a 400 m trial, from which CSS was calculated. Twenty-four-hour energy and carbohydrate intake, forehead skin temperature, resting and post-trial heart rate, the Hooper Index, and Borg CR-10 RPE were also assessed. Results: CSS, the pre-specified primary outcome, was significantly higher in the evening than in the morning (morning, 1.46 ± 0.03; evening, 1.47 ± 0.05 m·s⁻¹; Δ = +0.68%; p = 0.045; d_av = 0.24). The 400 m time was significantly faster in the evening (morning, 265.98 ± 6.25; evening, 264.37 ± 8.07 s; Δ = −0.61%; p = 0.047), whereas the 50 m time did not differ (p = 0.380). Forehead skin temperature and resting heart rate were higher in the evening (both p < 0.001); all other physiological, perceptual, well-being, and dietary comparisons were non-significant. Conclusions: A small evening increase in CSS, accompanied by faster 400 m performance, was observed in this homogeneous N-type cohort. The physiological measurements were concurrent observations and do not establish a mechanism. Standardising the time of day of repeated CSS assessment is recommended; larger, sex-balanced, and chronotype-diverse studies are needed before applying a numerical time-of-day correction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Applications of Sport Physiology: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

33 pages, 1246 KB

Open AccessReview

Common Ragweed Allergy Under Global Change Linking Invasion-Driven Aeroallergen Exposure with Molecular Sensitization and Allergic Airway Disease

by Maria Alexandra Ferencz-Iepan, Lavinia Ștef, Sandra Florina Lele, Florica Emilia Morariu, Nicolae Corcionivoschi, David McCleery, Igori Balta and Ioan Peț

Life 2026, 16(9), 1431; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091431 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

The case of common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) stands as a prime example of an invasive plant that links global change, biological invasion, aeroallergen exposure, and allergic airway disease. However, evidence remains fragmented across invasion biology, aerobiology, molecular allergology, and respiratory medicine. [...] Read more.

The case of common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) stands as a prime example of an invasive plant that links global change, biological invasion, aeroallergen exposure, and allergic airway disease. However, evidence remains fragmented across invasion biology, aerobiology, molecular allergology, and respiratory medicine. By separating plant occurrence, pollen abundance, molecular allergen dose, sensitisation, and airway disease, this review develops an integrated invasion–exposure–disease logic for interpreting ragweed-related health risk. We examine how climate change, land-use disturbance, repeated introductions, rapid adaptation, and air pollution influence plant distribution, flowering phenology, pollen production, airborne allergen load, and respiratory outcomes. Attention is given to Amb a 1 as the principal marker of genuine ragweed sensitisation, cross-reactivity with Artemisia and other weed pollens, allergen-bearing respirable particles, and the diagnostic limitations of extract-based immunoglobulin E (IgE) testing. The literature indicates that ragweed sensitisation follows a pronounced hotspot–gradient pattern in Europe, whereas patterns in other invaded regions remain more heterogeneous and incompletely characterised. Clinically relevant exposure depends not only on pollen concentration but also on airborne allergen load, pollen allergen potency, atmospheric transport, respirable particle fractions, meteorological conditions, and pollution. Ragweed-related airway disease is mediated by IgE-dependent type 2 immunity and amplified by epithelial danger signals, oxidative stress, protease activity, and innate immune pathways. Based on current evidence, we propose that an integrated surveillance framework linking plant distribution, pollen and airborne-allergen exposure, molecular sensitisation, symptoms, lung function, and asthma outcomes could strengthen risk forecasting, source attribution, prevention, and invasion control of the common ragweed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Allergies and Allergic Diseases—Perspectives in Diagnosis and Management: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 1070 KB

Open AccessReview

The Ocular Signature of TBI: A Narrative Review of Structural Changes and Potential Candidate Biomarkers

by Sultan Alotaibi

Life 2026, 16(9), 1430; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091430 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) damages brain tissues and affects the ocular system. Ocular manifestations such as orbital fractures, ocular surface disease, photosensitivity, impaired pupillary response, and retinal damage often co-occur with TBI. Despite established diagnostic criteria, a gap remains, particularly in detection, [...] Read more.

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) damages brain tissues and affects the ocular system. Ocular manifestations such as orbital fractures, ocular surface disease, photosensitivity, impaired pupillary response, and retinal damage often co-occur with TBI. Despite established diagnostic criteria, a gap remains, particularly in detection, monitoring, and recovery prediction. Since ocular manifestations co-occur with TBI, they may offer non-invasive means to address this gap. Accordingly, this review evaluates whether TBI-associated ocular manifestations can serve as biomarkers for TBI detection, monitoring, and recovery. Methods: A literature search was conducted across three databases for studies that address ocular manifestations of TBI listed above. Results: Orbital fractures occur in 69%, matching TBI severity. Occult fractures may indicate unseen mild TBI on advanced neuroimaging. Dry eye disease prevalence is inconsistent (15 and 37%). Tear film proteomics show altered inflammatory and repair proteins, though this area remains understudied. Vitreous total tau and neurofilament light chain correlate with brain levels in chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Photosensitivity affects approximately 50% of acute TBI and declines to 14% after three months. NPi-200 pupillometer shows high specificity in triaging acute injury but with low sensitivity. PLR-3000 pupillometer and smartphone applications require further validation. Retinal imaging shows biphasic thickening then progressive thinning, modulated by sex, severity and duration. Conclusions: No single ocular biomarker fulfills all roles. Instead, different markers map into distinct stages of the clinical course. Future research should prioritize molecular markers in the tear film, combined with changes in corneal nerves across different TBI severities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 2872 KB

Open AccessArticle

Association of the Endothelial Activation and Stress Index (EASIX) with Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Pneumosepsis: A Retrospective Cohort Study

by Derya Özyiğitoğlu, Ayşe Çapar, Emre Çapar and Şeyma Başlılar

Life 2026, 16(9), 1429; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091429 - 28 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Endothelial dysfunction is a key component of sepsis pathophysiology. The Endothelial Activation and Stress Index (EASIX) is a practical biomarker derived from routine laboratory parameters and indirectly reflects endothelial injury. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic association of EASIX with in-hospital [...] Read more.

Background: Endothelial dysfunction is a key component of sepsis pathophysiology. The Endothelial Activation and Stress Index (EASIX) is a practical biomarker derived from routine laboratory parameters and indirectly reflects endothelial injury. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic association of EASIX with in-hospital mortality and organ-support requirements among patients with pneumosepsis admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 1787 adult patients with pneumosepsis admitted to a tertiary ICU from January 2018 to December 2025. EASIX was calculated from laboratory parameters obtained at ICU admission, and log2-EASIX was used in all analyses. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included the need for invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), vasopressor therapy within the first 24 h, second-line vasopressor therapy, and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) within the first 7 days after ICU admission. Associations with the primary and secondary outcomes were evaluated using univariable and multivariable logistic regression, and discriminative performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The in-hospital mortality rate was 56.2%. Log2-EASIX was independently associated with in-hospital mortality (OR: 1.191, 95% CI: 1.119–1.268; p < 0.001). ROC analysis showed moderate discrimination for predicting in-hospital mortality (AUC: 0.673, 95% CI: 0.648–0.698), with a ROC-derived exploratory cut-off of 1.47. Patients with log2-EASIX ≥ 1.47 had approximately a two-fold higher risk of in-hospital mortality (OR: 2.039, 95% CI: 1.610–2.584; p < 0.001). In multivariable analyses of the secondary outcomes, log2-EASIX remained independently associated with second-line vasopressor requirement (adjusted OR: 1.104, 95% CI: 1.040–1.171; p = 0.001) and CRRT requirement within 7 days (adjusted OR: 1.317, 95% CI: 1.236–1.404; p < 0.001). However, its associations with IMV and initial vasopressor requirements were not statistically significant after adjustment. Adding log2-EASIX to the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II resulted in a statistically significant but small improvement in discrimination compared with APACHE II alone (AUC: 0.761 vs. 0.740; ΔAUC = 0.021; 95% CI: 0.010–0.032; p < 0.001). Conclusions: EASIX was independently associated with in-hospital mortality and second-line vasopressor requirement, and it remained associated with CRRT requirement after multivariable adjustment. However, serum creatinine alone showed superior discrimination for CRRT, suggesting that the association between EASIX and CRRT may be driven, at least in part, by its creatinine component and should therefore be interpreted cautiously. In contrast, the associations of EASIX with early IMV and initial vasopressor requirements were not significant after multivariable adjustment. Although its discriminative performance for mortality was moderate when used alone, EASIX may provide complementary prognostic information when added to established disease severity assessment. These findings warrant validation in prospective, multicenter studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

42 pages, 71509 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bioactive Oil Blend Nanoemulsion Attenuates Depression-like Behavior Through Modulation of Neuroimmune-Related Inflammatory Pathways in Experimental Rheumatoid Arthritis

by Doha A. Mohamed, Hoda B. Mabrok, Hagar F. Elbakry, Marwa E. El-Shamarka and Rania A. Bassuoni

Life 2026, 16(9), 1428; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091428 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease frequently accompanied by depression, with persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuroimmune dysfunction contributing to disease progression. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of a Gum Arabic-stabilized bioactive oil blend nanoemulsion and investigated its [...] Read more.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease frequently accompanied by depression, with persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuroimmune dysfunction contributing to disease progression. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of a Gum Arabic-stabilized bioactive oil blend nanoemulsion and investigated its underlying mechanisms using molecular docking and network pharmacology. Methods: A lyophilized nanoemulsion prepared from grape seed oil, wheat germ oil, and avocado peel oil was characterized for physicochemical properties and phytochemical composition. Female rats with Freund’s complete adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis received the nanoemulsion at two doses. Paw inflammation, behavioral performance, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress biomarkers, acetylcholinesterase concentration, lipid profile, and liver and kidney function were evaluated. Molecular docking and network pharmacology analyses were performed to identify potential molecular targets and signaling pathways. Results: The nanoemulsion exhibited favorable physicochemical characteristics and was rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, phytosterols, tocopherols, and unsaturated fatty acids. Treatment significantly reduced paw inflammation, TNF-α, IL-6, malondialdehyde, and acetylcholinesterase while enhancing catalase activity, improving metabolic parameters, and alleviating depression-like behavior. Molecular docking demonstrated favorable binding of the major phytochemicals to TNF-α, IL-6, and acetylcholinesterase. Network pharmacology identified key therapeutic targets, including TNF, AKT1, PTGS2, IL6, STAT3, ESR1, and NR3C1, and revealed enrichment of inflammatory, oxidative stress, and neuroimmune signaling pathways. Conclusions: The Gum Arabic-stabilized bioactive oil blend nanoemulsion ameliorated rheumatoid arthritis-associated depression-like behavior through a multi-component–multi-target–multi-pathway mechanism involving coordinated regulation of inflammatory, oxidative stress, cholinergic, and neuroimmune pathways. These findings support its potential as a complementary nutraceutical strategy for rheumatoid arthritis and its associated neurobehavioral complications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pharmaceutical Science)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 2114 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Curcumin on Inflammation in a Rat Model of Diabetic Retinopathy

by Hyo Seon Yu, Ji Hye Kang, Seo Hyun Kim, Heeyoon Cho, Seong-Ho Koh, Eun Hee Hong and Yong Un Shin

Life 2026, 16(9), 1427; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091427 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of vision loss, with oxidative stress and inflammation serving as critical drivers of its onset and progression. Curcumin, a natural polyphenol, is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Glial fibrillary acidic protein [...] Read more.

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of vision loss, with oxidative stress and inflammation serving as critical drivers of its onset and progression. Curcumin, a natural polyphenol, is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is commonly used as an indicator of retinal macroglial reactivity, whereas the NLRP3 inflammasome is an important mediator of inflammatory signaling in DR. We evaluated retinal vascular abnormalities and retinal GFAP immunoreactivity and examined whether these findings were accompanied by changes in retinal NLRP3 and IL-1β protein abundance and in the levels of cleaved caspase-1 and cleaved GSDMD. Methods: Diabetes was induced in 7-week-old rats via a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Following the confirmation of hyperglycemia, curcumin was administered orally. To evaluate the effects, we performed trypsin digestion, haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)–dextran permeability assays, immunofluorescence staining, and Western blotting on the harvested retinas. Results: The DM group showed increased acellular capillary formation, vascular leakage, retinal GFAP immunoreactivity, NLRP3 and IL-1β protein abundance, and levels of cleaved caspase-1 and cleaved GSDMD. Compared with the untreated DM group, the DM + curcumin group showed lower values for all of these outcomes. Conclusions: In diabetic rats, oral administration of a curcumin-containing formulation was associated with fewer retinal vascular abnormalities and lower GFAP immunoreactivity, accompanied by parallel differences in inflammasome-related proteins. These findings support the potential of this formulation as an adjunctive therapeutic approach for early diabetic retinopathy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eye Diseases: Diagnosis and Treatment, 3rd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4614 KB

Open AccessReview

Pharyngeal and Cervical Reconstruction and Fistula Management Following Total Laryngectomy: Contemporary Strategies and Evidence

by Maximilian George Dindelegan, Alma Aurelia Maniu, Claudia Diana Gherman, Răzvan Alexandru Ciocan, Cosmin Ioan Faur, Alex Victor Orădan, Hunor Levente Horvath and Violeta Necula

Life 2026, 16(9), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091426 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Total laryngectomy (TL) is still the standard treatment for advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer, with pharyngeal reconstruction being a challenging determinant of outcomes. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to July 2026 for studies reporting pharyngeal reconstruction techniques or [...] Read more.

Total laryngectomy (TL) is still the standard treatment for advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer, with pharyngeal reconstruction being a challenging determinant of outcomes. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to July 2026 for studies reporting pharyngeal reconstruction techniques or fistula outcomes after TL. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on reconstruction following TL across three domains: prevention, reconstruction, and management of pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF). Defect classification into minimal, partial, and circumferential categories guides reconstructive decision-making, each supported by a distinct evidence stream. Risk stratification identifies prior radiotherapy, poor nutritional status, sarcopenia, and salvage setting as the strongest PCF predictors. For minimal defects, stapler-assisted closure reduces PCF risk in primary TL, and double-layer manual closure outperforms single-layer repair. Partial defects in the salvage setting benefit from vascularized tissue augmentation, with pedicled onlay flaps associated with lower fistula rates than primary closure or free flap patching. For circumferential defects, network meta-analytic data suggest that the free jejunal flap ranks highest for fistula prevention. Comparative cohort data indicate that anterolateral thigh flaps may offer better long-term speech outcomes. The optimal choice depends on the outcome prioritized. Salivary bypass tubes represent the most consistently supported adjunct for fistula and stenosis prevention. PCF management follows a stage-based approach: conservative care for early fistulas, negative pressure wound therapy as a bridge in subacute cases, and vascularized flap reconstruction for chronic or refractory fistulas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Head and Neck Disorders)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1075 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hidden Gut Dysbiosis in Apparently Healthy Adults

by Valentina Avram, Klavio Pine, Nicoleta Negrut, Anca Ferician and Paula Marian

Life 2026, 16(9), 1425; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091425 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

(1) Background: Intestinal dysbiosis has been implicated in numerous gastrointestinal, metabolic, and immune-mediated disorders; however, data regarding its prevalence in asymptomatic adults remain limited. This study evaluated the prevalence and integrated profile of microbiological, functional, and immunological alterations associated with dysbiosis in apparently [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Intestinal dysbiosis has been implicated in numerous gastrointestinal, metabolic, and immune-mediated disorders; however, data regarding its prevalence in asymptomatic adults remain limited. This study evaluated the prevalence and integrated profile of microbiological, functional, and immunological alterations associated with dysbiosis in apparently healthy adults undergoing intestinal microbiota screening. (2) Methods: A laboratory-based cross-sectional study included 98 asymptomatic adults. In the present study, intestinal dysbiosis was defined as a multidimensional laboratory phenotype reflecting disruption of intestinal microbial, fungal, metabolic, luminal, or mucosal immune homeostasis. Bacterial and fungal markers, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), fecal pH, and mucosal immune biomarkers were assessed and grouped into predefined biological domains. Dysbiosis complexity was evaluated according to the number of affected domains. (3) Results: At least one laboratory abnormality was identified in 97 participants (99.0%), while 54 (55.1%) exhibited alterations in three or more biological domains. Core bacterial imbalance was detected in 87 (88.8%) participants, inflammatory and mucosal immune abnormalities in 85 (86.7%), opportunistic bacterial overgrowth in 61 (62.2%), depletion of protective bacteria in 58 (59.2%), and fungal overgrowth in 49 (50.0%). Reduced SCFA markers were observed in 27 (27.6%) participants and altered fecal pH in 33 (33.7%). Correlation analysis revealed clustering of SCFA markers and biologically plausible associations between microbial and mucosal immune biomarkers. (4) Conclusions: Laboratory abnormalities related to intestinal dysbiosis were highly prevalent and predominantly occurred as multidomain profiles, supporting dysbiosis as a complex biological phenotype requiring integrated microbiological, metabolic, and immunological assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 9201 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of High-Definition Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (HD-tACS) on Dual-Task Performance and Upper-Limb Multi-Joint Motor Control

by Wei Zhuang, Zhifei Zhang, Xiuling Bian and Keyi Yin

Life 2026, 16(9), 1424; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091424 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of high-definition transcranial alternating current stimulation (HD-tACS) on cognitive–motor dual-task performance and upper-limb multi-joint motor control. Sixteen right-handed healthy male participants completed a double-blind, randomized crossover experiment involving active tACS and sham tACS conditions separated by a one-week [...] Read more.

This study investigated the effects of high-definition transcranial alternating current stimulation (HD-tACS) on cognitive–motor dual-task performance and upper-limb multi-joint motor control. Sixteen right-handed healthy male participants completed a double-blind, randomized crossover experiment involving active tACS and sham tACS conditions separated by a one-week washout interval. A 4 × 1 HD-tACS montage was applied over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex at 5 Hz for 20 min. Participants performed a synchronous cognitive–motor dual-task paradigm that combined an N-back working memory task with an upper-limb throwing task under different task difficulty levels. Task performance outcomes included accuracy, reaction time, release velocity, peak velocity, movement duration, and dual-task cost. Upper-limb motor control outcomes included elbow and wrist joint range of motion, peak angular velocity, and peak joint flexion and extension moments. Accuracy showed a significant Stimulation × Time interaction. Under active stimulation, adjusted accuracy increased by 5.4 percentage points in N1 and 10.1 percentage points in N2, whereas the corresponding changes under sham stimulation were not significant. Reaction time, release velocity, peak velocity, and movement duration showed no significant stimulation-related changes. Release-velocity DTC also showed a significant Stimulation × Time interaction across N1 and N2. Under active stimulation, the signed DTC shifted upward, indicating a smaller release-velocity decrement relative to N0. The task-specific follow-up was significant for N2 but not N1; however, the Stimulation × Time × Task interaction was not significant. Most upper-limb kinematic and kinetic outcomes showed no significant stimulation-related changes. Active HD-tACS was associated with higher accuracy and a favorable shift in release-velocity DTC, while most motor, kinematic, and kinetic outcomes were unchanged. The effects were limited to selected behavioral outcomes and did not differ significantly between N1 and N2. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neuromechanics and Precision Motor Control for Functional Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 507 KB

Open AccessArticle

High Gingival Bleeding Burden in Late Pregnancy Is Associated with a Salivary Profile of Inflammatory, Regulatory, and Stress-Response Signals

by Gerson Aparecido Foratori-Júnior, Hélvis E. S. Paz, Roosevelt Da Silva Bastos, Luiz Renato Paranhos, Nagihan Bostanci, Marília Afonso Rabelo Buzalaf and Guy Howard Carpenter

Life 2026, 16(9), 1423; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091423 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Pregnancy increases susceptibility to gingival inflammation, and saliva may help characterize associated host-response profiles. This cross-sectional study compared nine salivary proteins and inflammatory mediators between pregnant women with high and low gingival bleeding burdens. Twenty-four women were classified by bleeding on probing (BOP) [...] Read more.

Pregnancy increases susceptibility to gingival inflammation, and saliva may help characterize associated host-response profiles. This cross-sectional study compared nine salivary proteins and inflammatory mediators between pregnant women with high and low gingival bleeding burdens. Twenty-four women were classified by bleeding on probing (BOP) into G1 (BOP ≥ 50%; n = 12) and G2 (BOP < 30%; n = 12). Unstimulated saliva was collected, and RBP4, β2-microglobulin, clusterin, cystatin C, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α were quantified using multiplex bead-based immunoassays. Primary comparisons used ANCOVA adjusted for maternal age and total protein concentration, with additional adjustment for visible biofilm in sensitivity analyses. In the primary adjusted analyses, G1 showed higher RBP4 (FDR-adjusted p = 0.004; partial η² = 0.466) and clusterin (FDR-adjusted p = 0.006; partial η² = 0.413), and lower IL-10 (FDR-adjusted p = 0.032; partial η² = 0.285). In the sensitivity analyses, significant group effects were observed for RBP4 (FDR-adjusted p = 0.026; partial η² = 0.381) and IL-8 (FDR-adjusted p = 0.044; partial η² = 0.303). These findings demonstrate associations between high gingival bleeding burden and a salivary profile involving inflammatory/chemotactic, regulatory, and stress-response signals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health and Systemic Conditions: From Biological Insights to Multidimensional Interventions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 2961 KB

Open AccessArticle

Vagal Afferent Stimulation Attenuates LPS-Induced Acute Lung Inflammation in Association with Reduced Spleen Weight and Increased CellTrace-Positive Signals in the Lung

by Yuta Masuda, Sajjad Hossain, Marina Khatun, Risa Shimane, Nanaka Tameike, Yukari Takeda and Chikara Abe

Life 2026, 16(9), 1422; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091422 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Vagal afferent stimulation exerts potent anti-inflammatory effects through neuroimmune pathways involving the sympathetic nervous system and spleen. However, how vagal afferent stimulation affects splenic responses and CellTrace-positive signals in inflamed tissues remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of vagal afferent [...] Read more.

Vagal afferent stimulation exerts potent anti-inflammatory effects through neuroimmune pathways involving the sympathetic nervous system and spleen. However, how vagal afferent stimulation affects splenic responses and CellTrace-positive signals in inflamed tissues remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of vagal afferent electrical stimulation (aVNS) on splenic responses and acute lung inflammation induced by intratracheal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice. As a preconditioning intervention, aVNS was applied to the right cervical vagus nerve 24 h before LPS administration. Pulmonary inflammation was evaluated by measuring tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Splenic responses were assessed by measuring spleen weight, and CellTrace-positive signals were evaluated following direct intrasplenic injection of CellTrace™ Far Red. aVNS significantly reduced BALF TNF-α levels (sham: 5443 ± 404 pg/mL, n = 5; aVNS: 2891 ± 756 pg/mL, n = 5) following LPS administration. In addition, aVNS reduced spleen weight 24 h after stimulation. Furthermore, the ratio of CellTrace Far Red-positive cells was significantly higher in the aVNS + LPS group than in the sham + LPS group (0.00504 ± 0.00056 vs. 0.00151 ± 0.00017, n = 4 per group). These findings indicate that vagal afferent stimulation reduces the BALF TNF-α response to LPS and is associated with reduced spleen weight and increased CellTrace-positive objects detected in lung sections. These observations suggest that changes in splenic and immune-cell dynamics may accompany the anti-inflammatory effects of vagal afferent stimulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 730 KB

Open AccessArticle

Association Between Visual Search Performance and Eye–Hand Coordination in School-Aged Children

by Daisuke Sudo

Life 2026, 16(9), 1421; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091421 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Eye–hand coordination (EHC), a fundamental component of visuomotor development in children, plays an important role in motor control, learning, and injury prevention. This study aimed to examine the association between trail making test part A (TMT-A) performance and EHC in school-aged children. Twenty-seven [...] Read more.

Eye–hand coordination (EHC), a fundamental component of visuomotor development in children, plays an important role in motor control, learning, and injury prevention. This study aimed to examine the association between trail making test part A (TMT-A) performance and EHC in school-aged children. Twenty-seven children aged 9–14 years participated in this cross-sectional study. EHC was assessed using a touchscreen-based visuomotor task, whereas visual search and reaction speed were evaluated using the TMT-A and ruler drop test (RDT), respectively. Spearman’s correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were performed with adjustment for age and sex. Bias-corrected and accelerated (BCa) bootstrap confidence intervals (2000 resamples) were calculated. Both TMT-A and RDT were significantly correlated with EHC performance. In the full sample, TMT-A remained significantly associated with EHC performance after adjustment for age and sex; however, this association was not robust in a sensitivity analysis excluding a high-leverage observation. Thus, the adjusted association should be considered exploratory and requires confirmation in larger independent samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Assessment and Treatment of Human Motor and Sensory Dysfunctions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 933 KB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Biomarkers of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: Clinical Relevance and Therapeutic Perspectives

by Rasha-Ioana Rămoiu-Shehada, Anca Emanuela Mușetescu, Lucian-Mihai Florescu, Alesandra Florescu and Paulina-Lucia Ciurea

Life 2026, 16(9), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091420 - 27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is the leading cause of mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis and a major clinical challenge due to its heterogeneous presentation and variable disease course. Reliable biomarkers may improve disease assessment, risk stratification, and therapeutic decision-making. This [...] Read more.

Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is the leading cause of mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis and a major clinical challenge due to its heterogeneous presentation and variable disease course. Reliable biomarkers may improve disease assessment, risk stratification, and therapeutic decision-making. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on established and emerging serum and molecular biomarkers in SSc-ILD and their potential clinical applications. Recent advances have shifted the focus from single-marker assessment toward integrated biomarker profiling, reflecting the complex pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. KL-6 and surfactant protein D (SP-D) have been associated with pulmonary involvement and radiographic features of SSc-ILD. Inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), and autoantibodies such as anti-topoisomerase I (anti-Scl-70) have been associated with disease severity and an increased risk of pulmonary progression. Emerging biomarkers related to epithelial injury, extracellular matrix remodelling, and vascular dysfunction may provide additional insights into the biological mechanisms underlying SSc-ILD. Current evidence highlights the potential of circulating and molecular biomarkers to refine risk stratification and prognostic assessment in SSc-ILD. Prospective validation and methodological standardization remain necessary to determine their clinical utility and potential integration into personalized disease management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research and Management in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1755 KB

Open AccessArticle

Kelulut Honey Modulates Skeletal Health and Bone-Related Molecular Markers in Rats Fed a High-Carbohydrate and High-Fat Diet

by Sophia Ogechi Ekeuku, Kumeshini Sukalingam, Mohd Fahami Nur Azlina, Fairus Ahmad, Kok-Yong Chin and Elvy Suhana Mohd Ramli

Life 2026, 16(9), 1419; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16091419 - 26 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: High-carbohydrate high-fat (HCHF) diets have been associated with oxidative stress, impaired bone remodelling, and deterioration of skeletal integrity. Kelulut honey (KH), a stingless bee honey rich in antioxidant compounds, has demonstrated protective effects against bone loss; however, its effects on bone density, [...] Read more.

Background: High-carbohydrate high-fat (HCHF) diets have been associated with oxidative stress, impaired bone remodelling, and deterioration of skeletal integrity. Kelulut honey (KH), a stingless bee honey rich in antioxidant compounds, has demonstrated protective effects against bone loss; however, its effects on bone density, biomechanical properties, antioxidant status, and bone-related molecular markers remain incompletely understood. (2) Methods: Male Wistar rats were assigned to sham, negative control (NC), or KH-treated groups (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg). The NC and KH groups received an HCHF diet for 24 weeks, with KH administered during the final 12 weeks. Bone microarchitecture was evaluated using micro-computed tomography, bone mineral density (BMD) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and biomechanical properties by three-point bending. Antioxidant enzyme activities, serum bone turnover markers, and bone-related gene expression were also assessed. (3) Results: HCHF feeding reduced BMD, load, stress, Young’s modulus, gluthatione peroxidase (GPx) activity, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity while increasing strain, displacement, serum C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX-1) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK) levels, and runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) expression. KH supplementation improved bone health by dose-dependently enhancing antioxidant defences, significantly increasing GPx and SOD activities, while catalase (CAT) activity was elevated at 600 mg/kg. The 400 mg/kg dose improved trabecular microarchitecture by increasing trabecular number, connectivity density and cortical area/total tissue area. KH also improved biomechanical properties, increasing load, stress, stiffness, and Young’s modulus while reducing displacement. Furthermore, KH attenuated HCHF-induced increases in Runx2 mRNA and RUNX2 protein and reduced osterix (Sp7), integrin Subunit Alpha 5 (Itga5), and calcitonin receptor (Calcr) mRNA expression. However, serum CTX-1 remained elevated in all KH-treated groups. (4) Conclusions: Overall, the findings suggest that KH may have potential as a natural intervention for mitigating diet-associated skeletal alterations, although further studies are required to clarify the underlying mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Effects of Natural Products on Human Diseases—3rd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI