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22 pages, 2139 KiB  
Review
New Perspectives on Nutraceutical Insulin Sensitizing Agents in the Treatment of Psoriasis and Other Dermatological Diseases
by Pietro Morrone, Francesca Caroppo, Alberto De Pedrini, Alessandro Colletti and Germano Baj
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7538; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157538 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Insulin resistance (IR) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of several dermatological diseases, including psoriasis, acne, acanthosis nigricans, and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). These conditions are characterized by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction, which are exacerbated by IR. This narrative review [...] Read more.
Insulin resistance (IR) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of several dermatological diseases, including psoriasis, acne, acanthosis nigricans, and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). These conditions are characterized by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction, which are exacerbated by IR. This narrative review examines the emerging role of nutraceutical insulin-sensitizing agents (ISAs), including myo-inositol, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin D, vitamin C, and folic acid, in managing IR-related dermatological disorders. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Cochrane Library and MEDLINE (1965–May 2025), focusing on clinical trials involving nutraceutical ISAs in dermatological conditions associated with IR. Only human studies published in English were included. Evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies suggests that ISAs improve glycemic control, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate inflammatory pathways in IR-related dermatoses. Notably, myo-inositol combined with magnesium and folic acid has demonstrated significant reductions in acne severity, hirsutism, and quality-of-life impairments in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Similar benefits have been observed in psoriasis and HS, though data remain limited. Nutraceutical ISAs offer a promising adjunctive approach for the management of IR-associated dermatological diseases, potentially addressing both metabolic dysfunction and skin inflammation. However, robust RCTs with long-term follow-up are needed to confirm these preliminary findings and to establish optimal treatment regimens. Full article
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21 pages, 1458 KiB  
Article
Production of a Biosurfactant for Application in the Cosmetics Industry
by Ana Paula Barbosa Cavalcanti, Gleice Paula de Araújo, Káren Gercyane de Oliveira Bezerra, Fabíola Carolina Gomes de Almeida, Maria da Glória Conceição da Silva, Alessandra Sarubbo, Cláudio José Galdino da Silva Júnior, Rita de Cássia Freire Soares da Silva and Leonie Asfora Sarubbo
Fermentation 2025, 11(8), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11080451 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 246
Abstract
The cosmetics industry has been seeking to develop products with renewable natural ingredients to reduce the use of or even replace synthetic substances. Biosurfactants can help meet this demand. These natural compounds are renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic or have low toxicity, offering minimal [...] Read more.
The cosmetics industry has been seeking to develop products with renewable natural ingredients to reduce the use of or even replace synthetic substances. Biosurfactants can help meet this demand. These natural compounds are renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic or have low toxicity, offering minimal risk to humans and the environment, which has attracted the interest of an emerging consumer market and, consequently, the cosmetics industry. The aim of the present study was to produce a biosurfactant from the yeast Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214 cultivated in a mineral medium containing 10% soybean oil and 5% glucose. The biosurfactant reduced the surface tension of water from 72.0 ± 0.1 mN/m to 33.0 ± 0.3 mN/m after eight days of fermentation. The yield was 53.35 ± 0.39 g/L and the critical micelle concentration was 1000 mg/L. The biosurfactant proved to be a good emulsifier of oils used in cosmetic formulations, with emulsification indices ranging from 45.90 ± 1.69% to 68.50 ± 1.10%. The hydrophilic–lipophilic balance index demonstrated the wetting capacity of the biosurfactant and its tendency to form oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, with 50.0 ± 0.20% foaming capacity. The biosurfactant did not exhibit cytotoxicity in the MTT assay or irritant potential. Additionally, an antioxidant activity of 58.25 ± 0.32% was observed at a concentration of 40 mg/mL. The compound also exhibited antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic microorganisms. The characterisation of the biosurfactant using magnetic nuclear resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the biomolecule is a glycolipid with an anionic nature. The results demonstrate that biosurfactant produced in this work has potential as an active biotechnological ingredient for innovative, eco-friendly cosmetic formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Industrial Feasibility of Biosurfactants)
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34 pages, 954 KiB  
Review
Insights into the Activities and Usefulness of Deoxynojirimycin and Morus alba: A Comprehensive Review
by Angela Fulvia Tricase, Maria Maddalena Cavalluzzi, Alessia Catalano, Michela De Bellis, Annalisa De Palma, Giovanna Basile, Maria Stefania Sinicropi and Giovanni Lentini
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3213; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153213 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 376
Abstract
Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), the first isolated iminosugar, is a natural alkaloid acting as a potent inhibitor of α-glucosidase with high nutritional value. It naturally occurs in plants (especially Morus spp.), microbes, and insects or can be synthesized. Diverse biological activities, such as antihyperglycemic, lipid-lowering, [...] Read more.
Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), the first isolated iminosugar, is a natural alkaloid acting as a potent inhibitor of α-glucosidase with high nutritional value. It naturally occurs in plants (especially Morus spp.), microbes, and insects or can be synthesized. Diverse biological activities, such as antihyperglycemic, lipid-lowering, antitumor, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory, have been recognized for this compound. However, DNJ has not been approved as a food supplement until now. Several studies, also in clinics, are carried out on Morus spp. containing DNJ. Among Morus spp., Morus alba L. (white mulberry), Morus nigra L. (black mulberry), and Morus rubra L. (red mulberry) are the three main species that grow all over the world. Some spurious studies have been conducted on Reducose® and Glubloc™, two products that contain DNJ and Morus alba, respectively. However, mulberry allergy, including respiratory allergy, airborne contact urticaria, anaphylaxis, oral allergy syndrome, and food induced urticaria, may be observed. This review aims to explore a crucial and timely question: how DNJ exerts its biological effects and what role it may play in therapeutic applications. We provide a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of DNJ’s pharmacological potential and the methods used for its production. We also report recent developments in clinical studies on Morus alba, Reducose® and Glubloc™. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Organic Chemistry)
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18 pages, 333 KiB  
Review
Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiac Adaptation After Device Deployment
by Letizia Rosa Romano, Paola Plutino, Giovanni Lopes, Rossella Quarta, Pierangelo Calvelli, Ciro Indolfi, Alberto Polimeni and Antonio Curcio
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2025, 12(8), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd12080291 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 113
Abstract
Cardiac devices have transformed the management of heart failure, ventricular arrhythmias, ischemic cardiomyopathy, and valvular heart disease. Technologies such as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), conduction system pacing, left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators have contributed to abated global cardiovascular risk through [...] Read more.
Cardiac devices have transformed the management of heart failure, ventricular arrhythmias, ischemic cardiomyopathy, and valvular heart disease. Technologies such as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), conduction system pacing, left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators have contributed to abated global cardiovascular risk through action onto pathophysiological processes such as mechanical unloading, electrical resynchronization, or hemodynamic optimization, respectively. While their clinical benefits are well established, their long-term molecular and structural effects on the myocardium remain under investigation. Cardiac devices dynamically interact with myocardial and vascular biology, inducing molecular and extracellular matrix adaptations that vary by pathology. CRT enhances calcium cycling and reduces fibrosis, but chronic pacing may lead to pacing-induced cardiomyopathy. LVADs and Impella relieve ventricular workload yet alter sarcomeric integrity and mitochondrial function. Transcatheter valve therapies influence ventricular remodeling, conduction, and coronary flow. Understanding these remodeling processes is crucial for optimizing patient selection, device programming, and therapeutic strategies. This narrative review integrates the current knowledge on the molecular and structural effects of cardiac devices, highlighting their impact across different disease settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrophysiology and Cardiovascular Physiology)
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15 pages, 2557 KiB  
Article
Multiline Laser Interferometry for Non-Contact Dynamic Morphing of Hierarchical Surfaces
by Biagio Audia, Caterina Maria Tone, Pasquale Pagliusi, Alfredo Mazzulla, George Papavieros, Vassilios Constantoudis and Gabriella Cipparrone
Biomimetics 2025, 10(8), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10080486 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 348
Abstract
Hierarchical surface structuring is a critical aspect of advanced materials design, impacting fields ranging from optics to biomimetics. Among several laser-based methods for complex structuring of photo-responsive surfaces, the broadband vectorial interferometry proposed here offers unique performances. Such a method leverages a polychromatic [...] Read more.
Hierarchical surface structuring is a critical aspect of advanced materials design, impacting fields ranging from optics to biomimetics. Among several laser-based methods for complex structuring of photo-responsive surfaces, the broadband vectorial interferometry proposed here offers unique performances. Such a method leverages a polychromatic laser source, an unconventional choice for holographic encoding, to achieve deterministic multiscale surface structuring through interference light patterning. Azopolymer films are used as photosensitive substrates. By exploring the interaction between optomechanical stress modulations at different spatial periodicities induced within the polymer bulk, we demonstrate the emergence of hierarchical Fourier surfaces composed of multiple deterministic levels. These structures range from sub-micrometer to tens of micrometers scale, exhibiting a high degree of control over their morphology. The experimental findings reveal that the optical encoding scheme significantly influences the resulting topographies. The polarization light patterns lead to more regular and symmetric hierarchical structures compared to those obtained with intensity patterns, underscoring the role of vectorial light properties in controlling surface morphologies. The proposed method is fully scalable, compatible with more complex recording schemes (including multi-beam interference), and it is applicable to a wide range of advanced technological fields. These include optics and photonics (diffractive elements, polarimetric devices), biomimetic surfaces, topographical design, information encoding, and anti-counterfeiting, offering a rapid, reliable, and versatile strategy for high-precision surface structuring at a submicrometric scale. Full article
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40 pages, 1777 KiB  
Review
Nanomaterials for Direct Air Capture of CO2: Current State of the Art, Challenges and Future Perspectives
by Cataldo Simari
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 3048; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30143048 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 396
Abstract
Direct Air Capture (DAC) is emerging as a critical climate change mitigation strategy, offering a pathway to actively remove atmospheric CO2. This comprehensive review synthesizes advancements in DAC technologies, with a particular emphasis on the pivotal role of nanostructured solid sorbent [...] Read more.
Direct Air Capture (DAC) is emerging as a critical climate change mitigation strategy, offering a pathway to actively remove atmospheric CO2. This comprehensive review synthesizes advancements in DAC technologies, with a particular emphasis on the pivotal role of nanostructured solid sorbent materials. The work critically evaluates the characteristics, performance, and limitations of key nanomaterial classes, including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), zeolites, amine-functionalized polymers, porous carbons, and layered double hydroxides (LDHs), alongside solid-supported ionic liquids, highlighting their varied CO2 uptake capacities, regeneration energy requirements, and crucial water sensitivities. Beyond traditional temperature/pressure swing adsorption, the review delves into innovative DAC methodologies such as Moisture Swing Adsorption (MSA), Electro Swing Adsorption (ESA), Passive DAC, and CO2-Binding Organic Liquids (CO2 BOLs), detailing their unique mechanisms and potential for reduced energy footprints. Despite significant progress, the widespread deployment of DAC faces formidable challenges, notably high capital and operational costs (currently USD 300–USD 1000/tCO2), substantial energy demands (1500–2400 kWh/tCO2), water interference, scalability hurdles, and sorbent degradation. Furthermore, this review comprehensively examines the burgeoning global DAC market, its diverse applications, and the critical socio-economic barriers to adoption, particularly in developing countries. A comparative analysis of DAC within the broader carbon removal landscape (e.g., CCS, BECCS, afforestation) is also provided, alongside an address to the essential, often overlooked, environmental considerations for the sustainable production, regeneration, and disposal of spent nanomaterials, including insights from Life Cycle Assessments. The nuanced techno-economic landscape has been thoroughly summarized, highlighting that commercial viability is a multi-faceted challenge involving material performance, synthesis cost, regeneration energy, scalability, and long-term stability. It has been reiterated that no single ‘best’ material exists, but rather a portfolio of technologies will be necessary, with the ultimate success dependent on system-level integration and the availability of low-carbon energy. The review paper contributes to a holistic understanding of cutting-edge DAC technologies, bridging material science innovations with real-world implementation challenges and opportunities, thereby identifying critical knowledge gaps and pathways toward a net-zero carbon future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Porous Carbon Materials: Preparation and Application)
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21 pages, 3526 KiB  
Article
Prenatal Bisphenol A Exposure Impairs Fetal Heart Development: Molecular and Structural Alterations with Sex-Specific Differences
by Alessandro Marrone, Anna De Bartolo, Vittoria Rago, Francesco Conforti, Lidia Urlandini, Tommaso Angelone, Rosa Mazza, Maurizio Mandalà and Carmine Rocca
Antioxidants 2025, 14(7), 863; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14070863 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 418
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with increasing evidence suggesting that their origins may lie in prenatal life. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as bisphenol A (BPA), have been implicated in the alteration of fetal programming mechanisms that [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with increasing evidence suggesting that their origins may lie in prenatal life. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as bisphenol A (BPA), have been implicated in the alteration of fetal programming mechanisms that cause a predisposition to long-term cardiovascular vulnerability. However, the impact of prenatal endocrine disruption on fetal heart development and its sex-specific nature remains incompletely understood. This study investigates the molecular and structural effects of low-dose prenatal BPA exposure on fetal rat hearts. Our results reveal that BPA disrupts estrogen receptor (ER) signaling in a sex-dependent manner, with distinct alterations in ERα, ERβ, and GPER expression. BPA exposure also triggers significant inflammation, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis; this is evidenced by elevated NF-κB, IL-1β, TNF-α, and NLRP3 inflammasome activation, as well as impaired antioxidant defenses (SOD1, SOD2, CAT, and SELENOT), increased lipid peroxidation (MDA) and protein oxidation, decreased GPX4, and increased ACSL4 levels. These alterations are accompanied by increased markers of cardiac distension (ANP, BNP), extracellular matrix remodeling mediators, and pro-fibrotic regulators (Col1A1, Col3A1, TGF-β, and CTGF), with a more pronounced response in males. Histological analyses corroborated these molecular findings, revealing structural alterations as well as glycogen depletion in male fetal hearts, consistent with altered cardiac morphogenesis and metabolic stress. These effects were milder in females, reinforcing the notion of sex-specific vulnerability. Moreover, prenatal BPA exposure affected myocardial fiber architecture and vascular remodeling in a sex-dependent manner, as evidenced by reduced expression of desmin alongside increased levels of CD34 and Ki67. Overall, our findings provide novel insights into the crucial role of prenatal endocrine disruption during fetal heart development and its contribution to the early origins of CVD, underscoring the urgent need for targeted preventive strategies and further research into the functional impact of BPA-induced alterations on postnatal cardiac function and long-term disease susceptibility. Full article
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15 pages, 505 KiB  
Review
The Role of Genomic Scores in the Management of Prostate Cancer Patients: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
by Alessandro Viti, Leonardo Quarta, Paolo Zaurito, Alfonso Santangelo, Andrea Cosenza, Francesco Barletta, Simone Scuderi, Armando Stabile, Vito Cucchiara, Francesco Montorsi, Giorgio Gandaglia and Alberto Briganti
Cancers 2025, 17(14), 2334; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17142334 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 328
Abstract
Genomic score testing is increasingly being integrated into the management of prostate cancer (PCa) to overcome the limitations of traditional clinical and pathological parameters. Genomic tools will represent essential components of precision medicine, supporting risk stratification, therapeutic decision-making, and personalized screening strategies. Genomic [...] Read more.
Genomic score testing is increasingly being integrated into the management of prostate cancer (PCa) to overcome the limitations of traditional clinical and pathological parameters. Genomic tools will represent essential components of precision medicine, supporting risk stratification, therapeutic decision-making, and personalized screening strategies. Genomic score tests can be broadly classified into two main categories: polygenic risk scores (PRSs) and tumor-derived genomic classifiers (GCs). While not yet standard in routine practice, several international guidelines recommend their selective use when results are likely to impact clinical management. PRSs estimate an individual’s susceptibility to PCa based on the cumulative effect of multiple low-penetrance germline genetic variants. These scores show promise in enhancing early detection strategies and identifying men at higher genetic risk who may benefit from tailored screening protocols. Tumor-based GCs assays provide prognostic information that complements conventional clinical and pathological parameters, and are used to guide treatment decisions, including eligibility for active surveillance (AS) or adjuvant therapy after treatment of the primary tumor. This review summarizes and analyzes the current evidence on genomic testing in PCa, with a focus on the available assays, their clinical applications, and their predictive and prognostic value across the disease spectrum. When integrated with clinical and pathological parameters, these tools have the potential to significantly enhance personalized care and should be increasingly considered in routine clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Clinical Management of Genitourinary Tumors)
14 pages, 1277 KiB  
Article
Bioinformatics Analysis of Unique High-Density Lipoprotein-MicroRNAs Cargo Reveals Its Neurodegenerative Disease Potential
by Diana Marisol Abrego-Guandique, Maria Cristina Caroleo, Filippo Luciani and Erika Cione
Appl. Biosci. 2025, 4(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/applbiosci4030034 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 523
Abstract
Recent findings have identified high-density lipoprotein (HDL) as a carrier of microRNAs, small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression, suggesting a potential novel functional and biochemical role for HDL-microRNA cargo. Here, we conduct an in-depth bioinformatics analysis of unique HDL-microRNA cargo to uncover [...] Read more.
Recent findings have identified high-density lipoprotein (HDL) as a carrier of microRNAs, small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression, suggesting a potential novel functional and biochemical role for HDL-microRNA cargo. Here, we conduct an in-depth bioinformatics analysis of unique HDL-microRNA cargo to uncover their molecular mechanisms and potential applications as clinical biomarkers. First, using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), we performed computational analysis on public human microRNA array datasets (GSE 25425; platform GPL11162) obtained from highly purified fractions of HDL in human plasma in order to identify their unique miRNA cargo. This led to the identification of eleven miRNAs present only in HDL, herein listed: hsa-miR-210, hsa-miR-26a-1, hsa-miR-628-3p, hsa-miR-31, hsa-miR-501-5p, hsa-miR-100-3p, hsa-miR-571, hsa-miR-100-5p, hsa-miR-23a, hsa-miR-550, and hsa-miR-432. Then, these unique miRNAs present in HDL were analyzed using a bioinformatics approach to recognize their validated target genes. The ClusterProfiler R package applied gene ontology and KEGG enrichment analysis. The key genes mainly enriched in the biological process of cellular regulation were identified and linked to neurodegeneration. Finally, the protein–protein interaction and co-expression network were analyzed using the STRING and GeneMANIA Cytoscape plugins. Full article
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27 pages, 686 KiB  
Review
Fracture Risk in Chronic Kidney Disease: Addressing an Overlooked Complication
by Guido Gembillo, Concetto Sessa, Walter Morale, Luca Zanoli, Antonino Catalano, Salvatore Silipigni, Luca Soraci, Andrea Corsonello, Maria Princiotto, Carlo Lomonte and Domenico Santoro
Metabolites 2025, 15(7), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15070460 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 652
Abstract
Fracture risk is a serious yet underrecognized complication among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in those with stages G3-G5D. The overlap between CKD-Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD) and osteoporosis leads to complex bone changes that increase the likelihood of fragility fractures. [...] Read more.
Fracture risk is a serious yet underrecognized complication among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in those with stages G3-G5D. The overlap between CKD-Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD) and osteoporosis leads to complex bone changes that increase the likelihood of fragility fractures. Studies show that 18% to 32% of CKD patients also have osteoporosis, and these individuals are more than 2.5 times as likely to suffer from fractures compared to those without CKD. In the advanced stages of the disease, fracture risk is up to four times higher than in the general population, with the femur, forearm, and humerus being the most commonly affected sites. Hip fractures are of particular concern as they are linked to longer hospital stays and higher rates of morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, dialysis patients who experience hip fractures have a mortality rate 2.4 times higher than those in the general population with similar fractures. This increased risk underscores the need for proactive bone health maintenance in CKD patients to prevent fractures and related complications. This review explores the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options related to bone fragility in CKD. Diagnostic tools, such as bone mineral density (BMD) assessments, the trabecular bone score (TBS), and biochemical markers, remain underused, especially in advanced CKD stages. Recent treatment strategies emphasize a multidisciplinary, stage-specific approach, incorporating calcium and vitamin D supplements, anti-resorptive agents like denosumab, and anabolic therapies such as teriparatide and romosozumab. Effective management needs to be tailored to the patient’s bone turnover status and stage of CKD. Despite progress in understanding bone fragility in CKD, significant gaps remain in both diagnosis and treatment. Personalized care, guided by updated KDIGO recommendations and based on an interdisciplinary approach, is essential to reduce fracture risk and improve outcomes in this vulnerable population. Further research is needed to validate risk assessment tools and refine therapeutic protocols. Full article
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22 pages, 2989 KiB  
Article
Photoautotrophic Batch Cultivation of Limnospira (Spirulina) platensis: Optimizing Biomass Productivity and Bioactive Compound Synthesis Through Salinity and pH Modulation
by Matteo Rizzoli, Giovanni Antonio Lutzu, Luca Usai, Giacomo Fais, Debora Dessì, Robinson Soto-Ramirez, Bartolomeo Cosenza and Alessandro Concas
Mar. Drugs 2025, 23(7), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/md23070281 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 577
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of salinity and pH modulation on the growth, biochemical composition, and bioactive compound production of Limnospira platensis under photoautotrophic batch cultivation. Cultures were grown in cylindrical photobioreactors using modified Jourdan medium, with controlled variations in NaCl concentrations (0.2–10 [...] Read more.
This study investigates the effects of salinity and pH modulation on the growth, biochemical composition, and bioactive compound production of Limnospira platensis under photoautotrophic batch cultivation. Cultures were grown in cylindrical photobioreactors using modified Jourdan medium, with controlled variations in NaCl concentrations (0.2–10 g L−1) and pH levels (9–11) to simulate moderate environmental stress. Maximum biomass productivity (1.596 g L−1) was achieved at pH 11 with 10 g L−1 NaCl, indicating that L. platensis can tolerate elevated stress conditions. Phycocyanin (PC) content peaked at 9.54 g 100 g−1 dry weight (DW) at pH 10 and 5 g L−1 NaCl, triple the value at pH 9, highlighting optimal physiological conditions for pigment synthesis. Protein fraction dominated biomass composition (40–60%), while total lipid content increased significantly under high pH and salinity. Polyphenol content reached 19.5 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) gDW−1 at pH 10 with 0.2 g L−1 NaCl, correlating with the highest antioxidant activity (Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity). These findings underscore the potential of L. platensis as a valuable source of proteins, pigments, and antioxidants, and emphasize the utility of moderate environmental stress in enhancing biomass quality, defined by protein, pigment, and antioxidant enrichment. While this study focused on physiological responses, future research will apply omics approaches to elucidate stress-response mechanisms. This study provides insights into optimizing cultivation strategies for large-scale production exploitable in food, pharmaceutical, and bio-based industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Algal Cultivation for Obtaining High-Value Products, 2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 719 KiB  
Review
Biologic Therapy in Severe Asthma: A Phenotype-Driven and Targeted Approach
by Maria D’Amato, Daniela Pastore, Chiara Lupia, Claudio Candia, Andrea Bruni, Eugenio Garofalo, Federico Longhini, Angelantonio Maglio, Albino Petrone, Alessandro Vatrella, Girolamo Pelaia and Corrado Pelaia
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(13), 4749; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14134749 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 925
Abstract
Asthma is a highly heterogeneous respiratory disease that, in its severe forms, is characterized by persistent symptoms, frequent exacerbations, and a significant impact on patients’ quality of life. Despite high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators, a subset of patients remains uncontrolled, necessitating advanced [...] Read more.
Asthma is a highly heterogeneous respiratory disease that, in its severe forms, is characterized by persistent symptoms, frequent exacerbations, and a significant impact on patients’ quality of life. Despite high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators, a subset of patients remains uncontrolled, necessitating advanced therapeutic strategies. The advent of biologic therapies has revolutionized the management of severe asthma, offering targeted interventions based on the underlying inflammatory endotypes, primarily T2-high and T2-low. However, selecting the most appropriate biologic remains challenging due to overlapping phenotypic features and the limited availability of validated biomarkers. This narrative review explores the clinical utility of key biomarkers, including blood eosinophils, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), periostin, and total and specific IgE, in guiding biologic therapy. All the information provided is based on an extensive literature search conducted on PubMed. We also examine the clinical characteristics and comorbidities that influence therapeutic choices. Furthermore, we present a practical decision-making platform, including a clinical table matching phenotypes with biologic agents, such as omalizumab, mepolizumab, benralizumab, dupilumab, and tezepelumab. By integrating biomarker analysis with clinical assessment, based on current guidelines and our extensive real-life experience, we aim to offer a logical framework to help clinicians select the most suitable biologic treatment for patients with uncontrolled severe asthma. Future research should focus on identifying novel biomarkers, refining patient stratification, and evaluating long-term outcomes to further advance precision medicine in the management of severe asthma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Clinical Advances in Chronic Asthma)
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12 pages, 1687 KiB  
Article
AI-Assisted LVEF Assessment Using a Handheld Ultrasound Device: A Single-Center Comparative Study Against Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
by Giovanni Bisignani, Lorenzo Volpe, Andrea Madeo, Riccardo Vico, Davide Bencardino and Silvana De Bonis
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(13), 4708; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14134708 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 449
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Two-dimensional echocardiography (2D echo) is widely used for assessing left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). This single-center comparative study aims to evaluate the accuracy of LVEF measurements obtained using the AI-assisted handheld ultrasound device Kosmos against cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), the current gold [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Two-dimensional echocardiography (2D echo) is widely used for assessing left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). This single-center comparative study aims to evaluate the accuracy of LVEF measurements obtained using the AI-assisted handheld ultrasound device Kosmos against cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), the current gold standard. Methods: A total of 49 adult patients undergoing clinically indicated CMR were prospectively enrolled. AI-based LVEF measurements were compared with CMR using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Pearson correlation, multivariable linear regression, and Bland–Altman analysis. All analyses were performed using STATA v18.0. Results: Median LVEF was 57% (CMR) vs. 55% (AI-Echo), with no significant difference (p = 0.51). Strong correlation (r = 0.99) and minimal bias (1.1%) were observed. Conclusions: The Kosmos AI-based autoEF algorithm demonstrated excellent agreement with CMR-derived LVEF values. Its speed and automation make it promising for bedside assessment in emergency departments, intensive care units, and outpatient clinics. This study aims to fill the gap in current clinical evidence by evaluating, for the first time, the agreement between LVEF measurements obtained via Kosmos’ AI-assisted autoEF and those from cardiac MRI (CMR), the gold standard for ventricular function assessment. This comparison is critical for validating the reliability of portable AI-driven echocardiographic tools in real-world clinical practice. However, these findings derive from a selected population at a single Italian center and should be validated in larger, diverse cohorts before assuming global generalizability. Full article
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8 pages, 1411 KiB  
Case Report
Congenital Clubfoot with Agenesis of the 4th and 5th Toes: A Case Report and Review of the Literature on Skeletal Malformations
by Giuseppe Vena and Gualtiero Cipparrone
Osteology 2025, 5(3), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/osteology5030021 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 318
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Congenital clubfoot (CC) is one of the most common congenital deformities of the lower limbs, typically presenting as a complex skeletal malformation. It is frequently associated with other congenital anomalies, although the co-occurrence with agenesis of the toes is rare. This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Congenital clubfoot (CC) is one of the most common congenital deformities of the lower limbs, typically presenting as a complex skeletal malformation. It is frequently associated with other congenital anomalies, although the co-occurrence with agenesis of the toes is rare. This case report describes a unique presentation of congenital clubfoot associated with agenesis of the 4th and 5th toes, focusing on clinical management and reviewing the literature on skeletal malformations linked to CC. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on studies published in the last decade regarding congenital clubfoot and its association with other skeletal malformations. A clinical analysis of a patient with congenital clubfoot and digital agenesis was performed, including diagnostic methods, treatment approach, and follow-up results. The patient was treated with the Ponseti method, followed by percutaneous Achilles tendon tenotomy due to insufficient correction. Due to persistent equinus deformity, a second intervention involving Achilles tendon lengthening and syndesmotic capsulotomy was performed. Results: The patient presented with unilateral congenital clubfoot and agenesis of the 4th and 5th toes, a rare combination. Initial correction was achieved with the Ponseti method, but further surgical intervention was needed. Follow-up at 2 years showed excellent results, with the patient able to walk without difficulty. The literature review revealed limited cases involving digital agenesis associated with clubfoot. Conclusions: This case report highlights the rare association between congenital clubfoot and agenesis of the 4th and 5th toes. While satisfactory outcomes were achieved, further studies are needed to explore potential worse outcomes in cases with associated malformations and the genetic factors involved. Full article
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20 pages, 7340 KiB  
Article
Pharmaco-Toxicological Effects of Cachrys libanotis Extract: Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Cytotoxic Activities in Human Cell Lines and Embryonic Models
by Mary Fucile, Ioana Gabriela Macasoi, Monica Negrea, Diana Obistioiu, Mariangela Marrelli, Ersilia Alexa, Cristina Dehelean, Giancarlo Statti, Filomena Conforti and Iulia Pinzaru
Antioxidants 2025, 14(7), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14070810 - 30 Jun 2025
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Abstract
We conducted a study to explore the potential of an enriched coumarin extract from Cachrys libanotis for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. The extract was prepared using pressurized cyclic solid–liquid extraction, and its safety profile was thoroughly evaluated using both cellular [...] Read more.
We conducted a study to explore the potential of an enriched coumarin extract from Cachrys libanotis for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. The extract was prepared using pressurized cyclic solid–liquid extraction, and its safety profile was thoroughly evaluated using both cellular and embryonic models. Our main goal was to uncover a mixture of bioactive compounds that could offer therapeutic benefits. The following parameters were assessed: (i) extract composition; (ii) antioxidant activity; (iii) effects on cell viability and morphology; (iv) irritant potential (in ovo); and (v) antimicrobial activity against nine microbial strains. Chromatographic and spectrometric analyses confirmed that the main specialized metabolites in C. libanotis extract were furanocoumarins, with xanthotoxin, bergapten, and isopimpinellin identified as the three predominant constituents. Treatment with the C. libanotis extract did not induce significant alterations in the adherent human keratinocytes, with confluence and epithelial morphology comparable to control cells. Conversely, viable cells declined in the breast carcinoma cell line (MDA-MB-231). Moreover, the C. libanotis extract exhibited a promising antimicrobial activity against two Gram-negative pathogens, Shigella flexneri and Salmonella typhimurium. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural and Synthetic Antioxidants)
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