Search Results (14,867)

Ovarian cancer (OC) remains one of the leading causes of gynecologic cancer mortality, largely due to late diagnosis, frequent relapse, and the emergence of chemoresistance. An important but often-overlooked contributor to treatment failure is the heterogeneous penetration of anticancer drugs within tumors. Structural and biochemical barriers—including abnormal vasculature, elevated interstitial pressure, dense extracellular matrix, drug efflux transporters, and malignant ascites—generate steep intratumoral concentration gradients that conventional preclinical models fail to capture. As a result, systemic pharmacokinetic measurements frequently provide limited insight into tumor-level drug exposure. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) have emerged as physiologically relevant 3D models that preserve the genetic, architectural, and functional characteristics of the original tumor. These systems enable controlled investigation of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic processes, including drug penetration, metabolism, retention, and exposure–response relationships. Adding cell-free malignant ascites supernatant enhances PDOs’ ability to mimic the metastatic peritoneal microenvironment of OC. This review discusses recent advances in PDO technologies and examines how PDO-derived data can inform intratumoral pharmacokinetics and dosing strategies using physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling and in vitro–in vivo extrapolation. Emerging hybrid platforms, including organoid-on-chip systems, vascularized co-cultures, and multi-omics integration, are crucial to improve translational prediction and support precision oncology. Full article

This article critically examines the evolving integration of urban and peri-urban agriculture (UPA) into green infrastructure (GI) concepts, a discussion gaining relevance amid geopolitical instability and global disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. These events have exposed food systems' vulnerability and reinforced the importance of preserving fertile urban and peri-urban land to enhance food security and sovereignty. UPA’s capacity to deliver several ecosystem services further reinforces its significance for socio-environmental policies. Based on a cross-disciplinary literature review, the study traces the conceptual evolution of GI from early models that separated agricultural and urban landscapes to contemporary frameworks that position agriculture as a central dimension of urban systems. It then analyses concepts such as Continuous Productive Urban Landscapes (CPUL), Edible GI, and Agroecological Urbanism, evaluating how they intersect with the core landscape ecology principles underpinning GI: multifunctionality, connectivity and spatial heterogeneity. Focusing on the European context, the discussion highlights key factors influencing GI-UPA integration: the definition of production model, the planning approaches guiding its development, and the policy frameworks required to support it. The paper concludes that embedding UPA within GI planning is pivotal to advancing integrative, resilient, and socially just urban greening strategies. Full article

Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) is a crop of significant economic importance in the Amazon, especially in the state of Pará, where intensive production systems predominate. Understanding the spatial variability of soil attributes and their relationship with plant vigor is essential to optimize agricultural practices and input use. Geotechnology-based approaches enable the generation of more precise management zones, contributing to efficient resource use and increased profitability. This study aimed to delimit potential management zones in black pepper crops based on the spatial analysis of soil bulk density (BD) integrated with the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), evaluated using the Bivariate Moran’s Index. The research was conducted in a production area in the municipality of Baião, Pará, Brazil, using soil samples to determine bulk density and UAV images for NDVI calculation. Data were interpolated by kriging and analyzed to identify spatial associations between soil compaction and NDVI. Soil bulk density ranged from 1.14 to 1.80 Mg m⁻³, while NDVI values ranged from 0.07 to 0.91, revealing a clear inverse spatial relationship between soil compaction and vegetative vigor. The integration of BD and NDVI allowed the delineation of site-specific management zones, supporting more efficient decision-making in precision agriculture. Full article

In an era of rapid digital transformation, brand activism has emerged as a prominent strategy through which organizations seek to signal social and environmental commitment while engaging increasingly sceptical and digitally empowered consumers. Within this context, perceived authenticity has become a critical evaluative mechanism shaping how digital brand activism is interpreted and whether it contributes to sustainable consumption and trust-based market outcomes. This study examines how perceived authenticity in digital brand activism is associated with consumer trust, attitudes toward socially engaged brands, and behavioral intentions that support sustainable consumption. Grounded in attribution theory and the authentic brand activism framework, the study adopts a quantitative, cross-sectional design based on an online survey of 240 consumers. The findings indicate that perceived authenticity is strongly associated with higher levels of consumer trust and more favorable attitudes toward digitally activist brands, reinforcing authenticity as a key trust-building mechanism in digital environments. Trust and attitudes are, in turn, positively associated with behavioral intentions such as purchasing, recommending, and willingness to pay a premium for sustainable products. However, behavioral intentions are weaker than trust and attitudinal evaluations, providing evidence of a persistent attitude–behavior gap that limits the translation of positive digital evaluations into concrete sustainable consumption outcomes. Exploratory results further suggest that the association between perceived authenticity of brand and behavioral intentions operates primarily through trust and attitudes rather than through a strong direct relationship. By clarifying these indirect pathways, the study advances attribution-based explanations of digital brand activism and contributes to research on smart innovation and digital sustainability by highlighting the role of authenticity in trust-based market outcomes. It also underscores the importance of authentic, data-informed digital strategies for fostering consumer trust, aligning brand activism with ESG principles, and supporting sustainable growth in digitally empowered markets. Full article

Composite materials are extensively used in the aeronautical and aerospace industries for their high strength-to-weight ratios but are vulnerable to barely visible impact damage (BVID), which can severely compromise structural integrity. Digital shearography (DS) provides a non-contact, full-field solution for subsurface inspection; however, low signal-to-noise ratios in raw phase maps often hinder precise damage identification. This study explores a post-processing methodology utilizing a band-pass filtering algorithm and temporal summation to isolate damage-related spatial frequencies. An in-house digital shearography system was used to inspect a carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) plate subjected to 13.5 J and 26.2 J impacts. Twelve phase maps, acquired during the thermal cooling stage, were processed using a multi-pass filters to systematically analyze different frequency ranges. Results demonstrate that summing multiple filtered phase maps significantly enhances the contrast of damage signatures compared to single phase maps or traditional unwrapping techniques. Furthermore, quantitative assessment using image quality metrics, such as the generalized contrast-to-noise ratio (gCNR), confirmed that optimal frequency selection is essential for an accurate damage delineation. This approach provides a robust framework for improving the reliability and sensitivity of non-destructive testing in composite structures. Full article

A new intracellular parasite of the phylum Apicomplexa is described infecting the digestive gland of the gastropod Bulla striata from the south coast of Portugal. Only merogonial stages enclosed within parasitophorous vacuoles were observed by light and electron microscopy. The meront cytoplasm contained lipid droplets, rough endoplasmic reticulum cisternae, and several round or oval electron-dense microbodies closely associated with amylopectin granules, suggesting that these microbodies may represent glycosomes. Mitochondria or related organelles were not identified. A reticulum of branched tubules extending from the parasitophorous vacuole membrane was observed, likely increasing the surface available for metabolite exchange between parasite and host cell. Merozoites resulting from meront division were present within the parasitophorous vacuoles. They were elongated and slightly curved, measuring 7–8 µm in length and about 2 µm in width, and possessed an apical complex comprising numerous rod-shaped micronemes, rhoptries, and a conoid. Phylogenetic analyses based on a partial 18S rDNA sequence placed this parasite within the coccidian lineage, at the base of the ichthyocolid clade, a recently recognized group of apicomplexans previously known from fish blood cells. This finding expands the host range of ichthyocolids to gastropods and provides the first ultrastructural observations of this lineage, although only of merogonic stages. Full article

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) plays an important role in skin regeneration and repair by promoting cell proliferation and collagen synthesis. However, its topical application is limited by low stability, susceptibility to degradation, and poor penetration through the stratum corneum due to its hydrophilic nature and relatively large molecular size. Microencapsulation offers a strategy to protect sensitive bioactives and improve their delivery in cosmetic formulations. In this study, EGF was encapsulated in Arabic gum/gelatine A (AG/GE) coacervate microcapsules and incorporated into a hydrating cream. The work extends previous studies using the same microcapsule composition for lipophilic compounds, demonstrating its applicability for a hydrophilic bioactive and highlighting the versatility of the encapsulation platform. The resulting microcapsules exhibited spherical, multinucleated morphology with an encapsulation efficiency of 78.8 + 1.0%. Although diffusion of microencapsulated EGF in the cream could not be directly determined, the formulation showed trends towards improvement in several skin parameters during the volunteer evaluation, including reduction in surface spots (31%), brown spots (21%) and pore visibility (10%), and improved texture (22%). A 25% decrease in transepidermal water loss and a 33% increase in elasticity suggested improved skin barrier function. Volunteers reported high acceptance regarding non-irritancy, texture, and sensory experience. Full article

Background/Objectives: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder associated with major cardiovascular and metabolic complications. Regular physical activity is recommended for glycaemic management, but barriers such as obesity, joint pain, and impaired mobility may limit participation in land-based exercise. Aquatic exercise may provide a feasible alternative as water buoyancy reduces joint loading while allowing aerobic and resistance training. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of aquatic exercise interventions on glycaemic control in adults with T2DM. Methods: The review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Scopus, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore databases were searched. Randomised and non-randomised longitudinal studies involving adults aged ≥35 years with T2DM participating in structured aquatic exercise programmes were eligible. The primary outcome was glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c). Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 and RoBANS 2, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Random-effects meta-analysis calculated mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Eleven randomised controlled trials involving 335 participants were included. Aquatic exercise significantly reduced HbA1c compared with passive control conditions (MD = −0.76%; 95% CI −1.21 to −0.32), although heterogeneity was high. No significant differences were observed between aquatic and land-based exercise interventions. Eight studies used wearable heart-rate monitors to regulate exercise intensity. Conclusions: Aquatic exercise may improve glycaemic control compared with sedentary conditions and yields effects comparable to those of land-based exercise in adults with T2DM. Further high-quality trials are needed to clarify optimal exercise dose–response and evaluate more advanced wearable technologies. Full article

Plant-derived antimicrobial compounds are emerging as promising alternatives to synthetic preservatives in the food industry due to their efficacy against a broad spectrum of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms, as well as their consumer acceptance. This review critically examines the main classes of bioactive phytochemicals, including essential oils, polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins, comparing their relative antimicrobial effectiveness and highlighting representative examples. Notably, essential oils rich in thymol or carvacrol have shown strong inhibitory activity against Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp., while polyphenols and alkaloids exhibit moderate to strong activity depending on concentration and food matrix. Their mechanisms of action include cell membrane disruption, inhibition of key enzymes, and interference with DNA or protein synthesis. Applications in food systems (i.e., incorporation into coatings, emulsions, or controlled-release formulations) demonstrate potential for extending shelf life and enhancing safety. However, practical implementation is challenged by matrix-dependent efficacy, compound stability, sensory impact, and regulatory and toxicological considerations. By synthesizing current knowledge, identifying the most promising compound classes, and highlighting key limitations, this review provides a critical framework to guide future research and the development of effective, sustainable natural preservatives in the food industry. Full article

Background: Veterinarians are pivotal to wildlife health surveillance and game-meat safety, yet these topics receive limited emphasis in many veterinary curricula. Understanding students’ perceptions can inform targeted educational improvements. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, anonymous online survey among students enrolled in the Integrated Master’s in Veterinary Medicine at ICBAS-UP (Portugal). The questionnaire covered sociodemographic, meat and game-meat consumption, perceived appeal of working with game animals, and multi-select views on hunting, game-meat consumption and the veterinary role. We computed descriptive statistics and tested associations between categorical variables using Pearson’s Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests (Monte Carlo correction when appropriate). Results: Of the 391 eligible students, 152 responded (39%). The majority (76%) associated hunting with veterinary inspection of game meat and research in epidemiology and emerging diseases, and many (72%) recognized as core roles monitoring the health of game animals and the contribution to public health and environmental sustainability. Significant associations included: prior game-meat consumption with finding game animals appealing/interest in learning more; year of enrolment with recognising hunting as an economic activity and acknowledging veterinary inspection and public health contributions; and perceiving game animals as appealing with associating hunting with population control (all p < 0.05; Cramer’s V indicating weak–moderate effects). Conclusions: Students show awareness of veterinary roles in game-animal health and meat inspection, but interest in working with game animals is low and knowledge gaps persist (e.g., inspection of game meat). Findings support curricular integration of wildlife health, game-meat inspection and One Health. Multicenter studies and evaluation of educational interventions are warranted. Full article

This study presents a structural and geotechnical assessment of an onshore wind turbine foundation that has been in service for approximately 15 years. It aimed to evaluate its suitability for service life extension under the current operational conditions, within the broader context of decision-making in aging wind farms. The investigation integrated original design documentation, detailed field inspections, in situ and laboratory geotechnical testing, and advanced 3D numerical modeling incorporating soil–structure interaction effects. Verification procedures followed international standards and current guidelines for the design and reassessment of wind turbine foundations. Critical structural and geotechnical aspects, including internal forces and reinforcement demand, stiffness, bearing resistance, settlement, and global stability, are examined to verify performance under the current operational loading conditions. The results provide a sound technical basis for strategic decision-making regarding service life extension or decommissioning of wind turbines in established wind farms, and constitute an essential baseline for any future structural upgrading associated with repowering strategies. Full article

The building sector is responsible for 40% of CO₂ emissions in Portugal, making the integration of renewable energy systems increasingly relevant. Photovoltaic (PV) technologies have become more accessible due to declining levelized costs of energy, and when coupled with battery energy storage systems (BESSs), they can enhance grid independence, reduce household energy expenses, and mitigate peak load stress. However, high upfront costs still limit adoption, particularly among vulnerable communities. This study evaluates the technical, economic, and environmental performance of PV systems, with and without BESSs, compared with an existing solar thermal configuration in a social-housing neighbourhood in Porto, Portugal. Numerical simulations were conducted for three scenarios, optimising system sizing and ensuring hourly energy flow balance between generation, storage, and grid supply. Results indicate that all configurations are technically feasible within Porto’s climate conditions, though with distinct investment needs, payback periods, and CO₂ reduction outcomes. The findings offer practical guidance for designing renewable energy solutions tailored to social housing, supporting both decarbonization goals and long-term mitigation of energy poverty. Full article

Taxanes, such as paclitaxel and docetaxel, are microtubule-stabilizing agents widely used in oncology, either as monotherapy or in combination regimens. While highly effective, these first-generation taxanes face important limitations, including significant toxicity, reduced water solubility, and the emergence of multidrug resistance. To address these challenges, semi-synthetic taxoids have been developed, aiming to improve pharmacological profiles and overcome therapeutic barriers. Central to these efforts is the understanding of structure-activity relationships, which guides the rational design of taxane analogues with enhanced efficacy and safety. This review explores recent advances in taxoid development, highlights findings from clinical trials, and evaluates how these new agents compare with traditional taxanes in terms of therapeutic potential and tolerability. While novel delivery systems offer improved outcomes with existing drugs, the development of new taxane analogues remains a promising approach to address drug resistance, albeit with challenges related to toxicity, high costs, and historically low success rates in drug development. Furthermore, taxanes are already used in certain cardiovascular conditions and show emerging potential in neurodegenerative diseases, although current evidence remains largely limited to preclinical or early-phase clinical studies. These developments mark an important evolution in the field and offer new opportunities for future therapeutic strategies. Full article

This research-related study examines the relevance of mud pulse telemetry (MPT) systems and their intersection with drilling performance, focusing on data transmission signal propagation performance and overall operation under different drilling parameters conditions, with an additional focus on drilling fluid flow rate and downhole pressure conditions. The novelty of this study lies in the investigation of adjustments to drilling operating parameters that could potentially improve the transmission of telemetry signals during drilling, in real time, without requiring mechanical or functional modifications to the MPT system itself. Improvements on transmission performance in situations where the data rate may be limited are also addressed, presenting an alternative through possible propagation velocity improvements to counterbalance it. A detailed chronological technical scientific literature review details important parts on analyses of pressure pulse propagation velocities focused on data transmission. A systematic experimental approach was developed and put into practice to evaluate the MPT systems in regard to tendencies on transmission performances, emphasizing pressure pulse propagation velocity. The laboratory-scale experiments were conducted at the Institute of Drilling Engineering and Fluid Mining (IBF) from the Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg (TUBAF), namely the Flow-loop Research Facility, to assess the impact of fluid flow rate (and subsequent pressure) on data transmission efficiency. Experimental results demonstrate that increasing the flow rate significantly speeds up signal propagation. In the performed experiments, for the mud siren configuration, increasing the flow rate from 15 to 25 m³/h improved the data transmission performance by approximately, at minimum, 18%, while for the positive mud pulse system, an increase in flow rate from 11.5 to 14 m³/h resulted in a propagation velocity rise of about 19%. The results also showed that higher concentrations of glycerin in the working fluid reduced the propagation velocity, confirming the influence of the fluid’s rheological properties on telemetry performance. At the end, in the presented case study, for 6 bps data rate configurations and for a transmission of a 40-bit string, it was demonstrated that the propagation time from downhole to the surface could potentially represent approximately 40% of the total time demanded for transmitting the desired information (generation plus propagation time). It was verified that an increment of 0.02208 m³/s (350 gpm) could lead to shortening eventual surveying procedures by 1–2 s, and that it could equally represent 1.137 bps. This is a relevant outcome, since, without any physical or functional alteration to the MPT system, one could have the data transmission performance improved, an approach not yet analyzed in the literature nor at the industrial park. These results, added to the detailed literature investigation and interaction with field personnel, indicate that the drilling fluid flow rate is a critical operational parameter affecting both the telemetry signal transmission speed and the overall drilling efficiency. Increasing the flow rate can reduce survey transmission time and decrease operational exposure to drilling hazards, such as drill string sticking. The results provide quantitative information applicable in optimizing measurement-drilling telemetry and help support the development of integrated drilling optimization strategies that balance drilling performance with real-time data transmission assurance in deep drilling operations. Full article