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Background: Unintended adolescent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain pressing public health concerns in Northeastern Thailand. Although school-based sexuality education is widespread, risk behaviors persist, underscoring the need for innovative approaches. This study evaluated the SESS (System–Empowerment–Support–Social Network) model, a multi-component framework designed to strengthen adolescent sexual health. Methods: A quasi-experimental, two-school study was conducted among 240 students aged 15–19 years in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. One school (n = 120) implemented a 16-week SESS program, while a comparison school (n = 120) continued with the standard curriculum. The SESS model combined system coordination, empowerment workshops, peer and institutional support, and digital platforms (Facebook, LINE). Data were collected with validated questionnaires and analyzed using ANCOVA, adjusting for baseline values. Exploratory analyses reported mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Groups were comparable at baseline. Post-intervention, the intervention school showed higher perception scores (mean difference = +13.0; 95% CI: 10.5–17.0) and preventive practice scores (mean difference = +14.0; 95% CI: 10.1–17.9). Attitudes showed minimal change. No pregnancies or self-reported STI cases were documented among intervention participants during the follow-up period. Conclusions: In this two-school quasi-experimental evaluation, the SESS model was associated with improvements in perceptions and practices, though attitudinal changes were limited. Findings suggest the feasibility of integrating empowerment, social support, and digital engagement into school-based programs while highlighting the need for multi-school trials to establish effectiveness. Full article

18 pages, 3996 KB

Open AccessArticle

Electropolymerization of 5-Indolylboronic Acid: Morphological, Spectroscopic, and Electrochemical Characterization with Perspective Toward Functional Applications

by Danilo Ramos, María Jesús Aguirre and Francisco Armijo

Polymers 2025, 17(19), 2702; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17192702 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

Poly(5-indolylboronic acid) was synthesized electrochemically via cyclic voltammetry using various electrodes, including screen-printed carbon electrodes, glassy carbon electrodes, highly oriented pyrolytic graphite, and 304 stainless steel. This study provides a thorough analysis of the resulting conducting polymer’s electrochemical behavior, morphological and structural characteristics, and potential applications. The following techniques were employed: cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. The polymer exhibits pH-dependent redox activity within the pH range of 4–10, displaying Nernstian behavior and achieving a specific areal capacitance of 0.234 mF∙cm⁻² on an SPCE electrode. This result highlights the electrode’s efficiency in terms of charge storage. Impedance data indicate that the modified electrodes demonstrate a substantial decrease in charge transfer resistance and improved interfacial conductivity compared to bare electrodes. Contact angle measurements show that the presence of boronic acid groups makes the polymer hydrophilic. However, when 5PIBA was incubated in the presence of molecules containing hydroxyl groups or certain proteins, such as casein, no adsorption was observed. This suggests limited interaction with functional groups such as amino, hydroxide, and carboxyl groups present in these molecules, indicating the potential application of the polymer in biocorrosion. 5PIBA forms homogeneous, stable, and electroactive coatings on various substrates, making it a promising and versatile material for electrochemical technologies, and paving the way for future functionalization strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Electrically Conductive Polymers and Composites)

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20 pages, 1956 KB

Open AccessReview

Interoperability as a Catalyst for Digital Health and Therapeutics: A Scoping Review of Emerging Technologies and Standards (2015–2025)

by Kola Adegoke, Abimbola Adegoke, Deborah Dawodu, Akorede Adekoya, Ayoola Bayowa, Temitope Kayode and Mallika Singh

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(10), 1535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22101535 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background: Interoperability is fundamental for advancing digital health and digital therapeutics, particularly with the integration of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and federated learning. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where digital infrastructure remains fragmented, face specific challenges in implementing standardized and scalable systems. Methods: This scoping review was conducted using the Arksey and O’Malley framework, refined by Levac et al., and the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Five databases (PubMed, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, and Google Scholar) were searched for peer-reviewed English language studies published between 2015 and 2025. We identified 255 potentially eligible articles and selected a 10% random sample (n = 26) using Stata 18 by StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX, USA, for in-depth data charting and thematic synthesis. Results: The selected studies spanned over 15 countries and addressed priority technologies, including mobile health (mHealth), the use of Health Level Seven (HL7)’s Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) for data exchange, and blockchain. Interoperability enablers include standards (e.g., HL7 FHIR), data governance frameworks, and policy interventions. Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) face common issues related to digital capacity shortages, legacy systems, and governance fragmentation. Five thematic areas were identified: (1) policy and governance; (2) standards-based integration; (3) infrastructure and platforms; (4) emerging technologies; and (5) LMIC implementation issues. Conclusions: Emerging digital health technologies increasingly rely on interoperability standards to scale their operation. Although global standards such as FHIR and the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA) are gaining momentum, LMICs require dedicated governance, infrastructure, and capacity investments to make equitable use feasible. Future initiatives can benefit from using science- and equity-informed frameworks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue uHealth Interventions and Digital Therapeutics for Better Diseases Prevention and Patient Care)

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22 pages, 5261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Numerical Models of Degraded Pedestrian Footbridges Based on the Cable-Stayed Footbridge over the Wisłok River in Rzeszów

by Dominika Ziaja and Ewa Błazik-Borowa

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10798; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910798 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

This article aims to perform system identification of a nearly 30-year-old cable-stayed steel footbridge over the Wisłok River in Rzeszów (Poland). The design documentation of the bridge has been lost, and since its construction, the footbridge has been subject to renovations. The structure is highly susceptible to pedestrian traffic, and before any actions are taken to improve the comfort of use, it is necessary to create and validate a numerical model and assess the force distribution in the structure. Models are often built as mappings of an ideal structure. However, real structures are not ideal. The comparison of numerical and measured data can allow for an indication of potential damage areas. Two main purposes of the article have been formulated: (1)Development of a numerical model of an old footbridge, whose components have been degraded due to long-term use. Changes, compared to the ‘original’, focused on elongation of the cables due to rheology and a decrease in their tension. (2) Demonstrate the challenges in modeling and validating this type of bridge. In the article, the result of the numerical simulation (Finite Element Method and Ansys2024 R2 was applied, the verification was made in RFEM6) for models with different boundary conditions and varied pre-tension in cables was compared with the results of static and dynamic examination of a real object. The dynamic tests showed an uneven distribution of pre-tension in cables. The ratio of the first natural frequencies of inner cables on the north side is as high as 16%. The novelty demonstrated in the article is that static tests are insufficient for proper system identification; the same value of vertical displacement can be obtained for a selected static load, with varied tension in cables. Therefore, dynamic testing is essential. Full model updating requires a multicriteria approach, which will be made in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Structural Health Monitoring in Civil Engineering)

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17 pages, 2673 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploratory Analysis of Physiological and Biomechanical Determinants of CrossFit Benchmark Workout Performance: The Role of Sex and Training Experience

by Alexandra Malheiro, Pedro Forte, David Rodríguez-Rosell, Diogo L. Marques and Mário C. Marques

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10796; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910796 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

CrossFit performance is influenced by physiological, neuromuscular, and perceptual factors, yet the extent to which these determinants vary by sex or training experience in standardized CrossFit Workouts of the Day (WODs) remains unclear. This study examined whether variables such as lactate accumulation, oxygen uptake dynamics, jump performance loss, and ventilatory responses relate differently to performance when stratified by sex and expertise. Fifteen trained athletes (eight males, seven females; overall mean age 27.7 ± 4.6 years) took part. Assessments included body composition, squat (SJ) and countermovement jumps (CMJ), and maximal oxygen consumption [VO₂max]. On a separate day, they performed Fran (21-15-9 thrusters and pull-ups, Rx or scaled) The prescribed (‘Rx’) version used standardized barbell loads (43 kg for men, 29 kg for women), while the scaled version involved reduced loads or pull-up modifications. Respiratory gas exchange and heart rate were continuously monitored, while blood lactate and jump performance were measured pre- and post-WOD. Workout completion time [s] was the primary outcome. Correlation heatmaps explored associations in the overall sample and by sex and expertise. Mean completion time was 422.1 ± 173.2 s (range: 200–840). Faster performance correlated with higher ventilatory responses [ΔVe, r = −0.60, p = 0.018], greater mean VO₂ (r = −0.62, p = 0.014), superior jump power [CMJ pre, r = −0.65, p = 0.009], and higher post-WOD lactate [r = −0.54, p = 0.036]. Sex-stratified analyses showed that males relied on ventilatory efficiency and neuromuscular power, whereas females were more constrained by performance loss and higher resting perceived exertion (RPE). Experts depended on ventilatory and neuromuscular efficiency, while initiates showed stronger associations with decrements in jump performance and higher RPE. These findings highlight subgroup-specific performance profiles and reinforce the need for tailored training strategies in CrossFit athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Performance: Data Measurement, Analysis and Improvement)

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8 pages, 1666 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Wide Tunable Spectrum and High Power Narrowed Linewidth Dual-Wavelength Broad Area Diode Laser

by Huizi Zhao, Zi Ye, Longfei Jiang, Liang Li, Rui Wang, Zining Yang, Weiqiang Yang, Hongyan Wang, Weihong Hua and Xiaojun Xu

Photonics 2025, 12(10), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12100989 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

We demonstrate a dual-wavelength broad-area diode laser system with narrow linewidth and wide spectral tunability using a composite external cavity comprising a volume Bragg grating and a Littrow-type transmission grating. One wavelength is stabilized at 780.25 nm with a linewidth of ~0.13 nm, while the other achieves a continuous tuning range of 772.24–786.43 nm with a linewidth of ~0.17 nm. The system exhibits a side-mode suppression ratio exceeding 20 dB across the entire tuning range. At a dual-wavelength separation of 4.29 nm, the total output power reaches 2.62 W. Additionally, we successfully validate the system’s potential for nonlinear optical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advancements in Tunable Laser Technology)

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19 pages, 947 KB

Open AccessArticle

Valorization of Camelina Cake by Fractionation: Characterization of Nutritional and Functional Properties

by Slađana Rakita, Nedeljka Spasevski, Strahinja Vidosavljević, Zorica Tomičić, Ivan M. Savić, Ivana M. Savić Gajić, Olivera Đuragić and Ana Marjanović Jeromela

Foods 2025, 14(19), 3437; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14193437 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of fractionation by sieving on cold-pressed camelina cake by separating it into particle-sized fractions and evaluating their nutritional and functional properties. Two Camelina sativa varieties, NS Zlatka and NS Slatka, were mechanically cold-pressed using a screw press then ground into flour. The resulting material was fractionated into three particle-sized fractions, >250 µm, 250–180 µm, and <180 µm, using a laboratory dry sieving system. Both the whole cake and the separated fractions were analyzed for proximate composition, amino acid and fatty acid profiles, tocopherol content, antioxidant potential, color characteristics, and water and oil absorption capacities. The results indicated that the finest cake fraction (<180 µm) from both camelina varieties contained the highest content of protein (~40%), fat (17–19%), essential amino acids (~17 g/100 g), γ-tocopherols (254–266 mg/kg), and the lowest content of condensed tannins (0.5–0.9 g/kg). It also displayed a lighter color and increased yellowness. However, it contained the highest concentrations of glucosinolates (24–27 μmol/g) and phytic acid (38–41 g/kg). In contrast, the coarsest fraction (>250 µm) had increased crude fiber content (13–15%), higher antioxidant potential, the greatest water absorption capacity, and a darker color with a more pronounced reddish color. It also contained the lowest levels of glucosinolates (19–21 μmol/g) and phytic acid (17–20 g/kg). In conclusion, whole camelina cake and its fractions demonstrate considerable potential for use in animal feed and a variety of human nutritional products, due to their favorable nutritional composition and functional properties. Fine fractions with high levels of antinutritional compounds could be used as a substrate for the extraction of bioactive compounds and may find further application in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management, Recovery, and Transformation of Food Waste and By-Products)

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25 pages, 4843 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tools and Methods for Achieving Wi-Fi Sensing in Embedded Devices

by Jesus A. Armenta-Garcia, Felix F. Gonzalez-Navarro, Jesus Caro-Gutierrez and Conrado I. Garcia-Reyes

Sensors 2025, 25(19), 6220; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25196220 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

Wi-Fi sensing has emerged as a powerful approach to Human Activity Recognition (HAR) by utilizing Channel State Information (CSI). However, current implementations face two significant challenges: reliance on firmware-modified hardware for CSI collection and dependence on GPU/cloud-based deep learning models for inference. To address these limitations, we propose a two-fold embedded solution: a novel CSI collection tool built on low-cost microcontrollers that surpass existing embedded alternatives in packet rate efficiency under standard baud rate conditions and an optimized DenseNet-based HAR model deployable on resource-constrained edge devices without cloud dependency. In addition, a new HAR dataset is presented. To deal with the scarcity of training data, an Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD)-based data augmentation method is presented. With this strategy, it was possible to enhance model accuracy from 59.91% to 97.55%. Leveraging this enhanced dataset, a compact DenseNet variant is presented. An accuracy of 92.43% at 232 ms inference latency is achieved when implemented on an ESP32-S3 microcontroller. Using as little as 127 kB of memory, the proposed model offers acceptable performance in terms of accuracy and privacy-preserving HAR at the edge; it also represents a scalable and low-cost Wi-Fi sensing solution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section State-of-the-Art Sensors Technologies)

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19 pages, 4086 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Renders Surface Structure and Color Properties in the Context of the TLS Accuracy

by Andrzej Kwinta, Agnieszka Malec, Izabela Piech and Robert Gradka

Sensors 2025, 25(19), 6219; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25196219 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

This paper presents the results of laboratory research regarding the influence of the structure and color of decorative renders on the accuracy of measurements conducted using Leica ScanStation P40 terrestrial laser scanning (TLS). The study examined whether and how differences in render structure and color (brightness) affect the quality of data acquired via TLS. The color and brightness measurements of the test fields were performed using a flatbed scanner. The RGB color and luminance analysis of the test fields were conducted using the software “ImageJ” version 1.54g. The measurements were conducted for light-colored renders (average brightness from 143 to 243). The research found no clear relationship established between the type and color of render and the accuracy of laser scanning. The results indicate increased measurement dispersion with decreasing render brightness. It was found that the standard deviation of distance measurements for Scratched-type renders is approximately 26% higher than for Roughcast-type render. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)

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10 pages, 1430 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Assessment of Dyke-Induced Strength Variations in Coal and Its Surroundings Using a Non-Destructive In Situ Testing Approach

by Sahendra Ram, Ashok Kumar, Krzysztof Skrzypkowski, Jerzy Stasica, Zbigniew Rak and Maciej Madziarz

Mining 2025, 5(4), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining5040063 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

In situ uniaxial compressive strength mapping across dykes of different thicknesses within a coal mass and its influence zones at two mines in the Jharia coalfield has been carried out in this study. It provides insight into the manner in which the dyke intrusion altered the adjacent coal mass, leading to the formation of jhama and pulverized zones with modified strength properties. A Digital Schmidt Hammer with an impact energy of 2.207 Nm was used to estimate the in situ uniaxial compressive strength of the coal around the seam–dyke interface in different mines selected for the study. At the first mine, the dyke had a thickness of approximately 15 m, with its influence on the surrounding coal mass extending up to 13.5 m on both sides. Unlike the first mine, the dyke in the second mine was merely 1 m thick, with its effect limited to a zone of around 2.1 m. The average uniaxial compressive strength of unaltered (intact) coal at the studied mines ranged from 31.7 to 38.5 MPa. The zones influenced by the dyke at both mines comprised jhama, which exhibited a 15–18% higher uniaxial compressive strength compared to the surrounding intact coal, and pulverized coal zones, which showed a 46–56% reduction in strength relative to the intact coal. Full article

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13 pages, 1564 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pan-Resistant HIV-1 Drug Resistance Among Highly Treated Patients with Virological Failure on Dolutegravir-Based Antiretroviral Therapy in Zimbabwe

by Tendai Washaya, Benjamin Chimukangara, Justin Mayini, Sandra Bote, Nyasha Chin’ombe, Shungu Munyati and Justen Manasa

Viruses 2025, 17(10), 1348; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17101348 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

The HIV-1 epidemic continues to challenge global public health, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. The rise in drug-resistant viruses, particularly pan-resistant strains, threatens treatment effectiveness, hindering progress toward UNAIDS viral suppression goals. This is critical in low-to-middle income countries (LMICs) like Zimbabwe, where treatment options and access to drug resistance testing are limited. This cross-sectional study analyzed 102 genotypes from patients with HIV-1 RNA ≥ 1000 copies/mL after at least 6 months on a dolutegravir (DTG)-based ART. HIV-1 genotyping and drug resistance interpretation were performed using the Stanford HIV Drug Resistance Database. Overall, 62% of genotypes harbored at least one drug resistance mutation, with 27% showing integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-associated mutations. High-level resistance to DTG and cabotegravir was found in 14% and 23% of integrase sequences, respectively, primarily driven by G118R and E138K/T mutations. Pan-resistance was observed in 18% of complete genotypes, with one case of four class resistance. These results highlight the emergence of INSTI resistance in LMICs. The study underscores the urgent need for enhanced HIV drug resistance testing, continuous surveillance, and strategic optimization of ART regimens in resource-constrained settings to ensure effective HIV management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current ART, Virologic Failure and Implications for HIV Drug Resistance, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 9390 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of TaN Cap Layer on the Tribological and Antibacterial Properties of TaN-(Ag,Cu) Nanocomposite Thin Films

by Jang Hsing Hsieh, Anwesha Dey, Chuan Li and You Jen Cho

Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1175; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101175 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

Reactive co-sputtering was applied to deposit TaN-(Ag,Cu) nanocomposite films on Si and tool steels. Prior to post-deposition annealing, the films were deposited with TaN cap (diffusion barrier) layers in various thicknesses in order to slow down the nucleation and growth of emerging Ag and Cu particles. The thickness of the cap layers was set at 5, 10, 20, or 50 nm. The films were then annealed using Rapid Thermal Annealing (RTA) at 400 °C to induce the nucleation and growth of Ag and Cu nanoparticles. These films’ surface morphologies and structures were examined. The samples were tested for their anti-wear and antibacterial behaviors against Gram-positive S. aureus and Gram-negative E. coli, with a variation in cap layer thickness. It is found that, through the application of TaN cap layers, the out-diffusion of Ag and Cu atoms may be slowed down. The surface concentrations of Ag and Cu might decrease from 35 at.% and 17 at.% to 18 at.% and 6 at.%, respectively, when the cap layer thickness increases to 50 nm (after being annealed for 12 min). The diffusion mechanism is proposed to explain the formation of nanoparticles on the surface through boundary diffusion. Antibacterial behaviors against both bacteria, as well as tribological properties, could still be effective but become less significant with an increase in the cap layer thickness. The antibacterial efficiency after 3 h testing decreased from 99% to 5% and 8% against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively. At 12 h, all the samples reached >99% antibacterial efficiency, despite the variation in cap thickness. For sliding wear, the wear rate was doubled when the cap thickness increased to 50 nm (when the normal load was 1 N). On the other hand, the difference was minor when the normal load was changed to 5 N. The sliding lifetime of the samples was studied using a tribometer. The total lifetime may increase with an increase in the cap thickness. The wear is found to be due to the oxidation of Ag and Cu nanoparticles, which results in the loss of low coefficient behaviors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Thin Film Fabrication by Sputtering)

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3 pages, 158 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Design and Manufacturing: An Industry 4.0 Perspective

by Panagiotis Kyratsis, Angelos P. Markopoulos, Henrique de Amorin Almeida and Tatjana Spahiu

Machines 2025, 13(10), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13100927 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

Industrial investments include the use of advanced technologies which refine, accelerate, improve quality, and boost stakeholder profitability [...] Full article

12 pages, 477 KB

Open AccessReview

Hemoglobin-Based Oxygen Carriers: Selected Advances and Challenges in the Design of Safe Oxygen Therapeutics (A Focused Review)

by Waldemar Grzegorzewski, Anna Czerniecka-Kubicka, Katarzyna Gołda, Alicja Niedźwiedzka, Hanna Wollocko, Michał S. Majewski and Joanna Wojtkiewicz

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(19), 9775; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26199775 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

Blood transfusion is a routine yet resource-intensive medical procedure. Increasing global demand, limited donor availability, and logistical and ethical constraints have driven the search for adequate blood substitutes. Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) represent a promising class of therapeutics designed to mimic the oxygen transport function of red blood cells while overcoming the challenges of storage, compatibility, and infection risk. Despite decades of research, no HBOC has yet met all criteria for widespread clinical use. This review summarizes recent advances in the design and development of hemoglobin derivatives, with a focus on their biochemical properties, safety profiles, and oxygen delivery capabilities. We also discuss current limitations and translational barriers. The successful implementation of HBOCs could significantly improve transfusion strategies, especially in emergency medicine, military applications, and resource-limited settings. Continued innovation is essential to bring safe and effective oxygen therapeutics into routine clinical practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)

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20 pages, 5925 KB

Open AccessArticle

Functional and Evolutionary Role of Reproductive Hormonal Dysregulation Following Dietary Exposure to Singed Meat

by Prosper Manu Abdulai, Orish Ebere Orisakwe, Costantino Parisi, Rubina Vangone, Corrado Pane, Emidio M. Sivieri, Domenico Pirozzi and Giulia Guerriero

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(19), 9774; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26199774 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025

Abstract

Consumption of meat singed with non-standard fuels is a common practice in many low- and middle-income settings, yet it may introduce combustion-derived toxicants with serious health consequences. While the toxicological effects of pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals are well documented, the specific impact of singed meat consumption on endocrine regulation remains poorly understood. Of particular concern is the reproductive hormonal network, which not only serves as a sensitive biomarker of systemic disruption but also represents an evolutionary safeguard of fertility and generational continuity. Our study addresses this knowledge gap using male Wistar rats fed for 90 days (week 0 to week 12) on diets containing increasing proportions (25%, 50%, 75%) of meat singed with firewood, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or tyres. Firewood- and tyre-singed meat induced dose- and source-dependent toxicity, including hepatocellular injury, impaired protein metabolism, elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, organ hypertrophy, and pronounced oxidative stress. Hormonal analysis revealed reduced testosterone alongside increased FSH, LH, and prolactin, indicating hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis disruption and reproductive risk. In contrast, LPG-singed meat caused only minor alterations. These findings highlight reproductive hormones as sensitive biomarkers, underscoring the health risks of singeing practices and their evolutionary implications for fertility and population fitness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hormones: Evolutionary and Functional Role)

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