Saved Queries

Huanglongbing, a destructive citrus disease of global importance that is also present in Saudi Arabia, is associated with Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) and remains a major threat to citrus production. Although previous studies have documented sequence variation and prophage polymorphism in CLas, broader comparisons of prophage-associated gene content remain limited. In particular, comparative orthogroup analysis of prophage gene-content conservation across geographically structured CLas populations has rarely been explored. In this study, we analyzed 42 CLas prophage genomes from Saudi Arabia and other geographic regions using a comparative orthogroup framework. OrthoFinder assigned 99.1% of predicted proteins (1825 of 1841) to 64 orthogroups, with only 16 genes remaining unassigned. A small number of rare orthogroups restricted to only a few genomes were identified, and no orthogroup was detected in all genomes. Presence–absence analyses supported a predominantly conserved prophage gene repertoire together with a small accessory component, while also indicating that apparent absences should be interpreted in light of mixed assembly status and prophage-region completeness. Saudi Arabian genomes were distributed within the broader global framework and exhibited generally similar gene-content profiles rather than a deeply separated lineage. Functional interpretation of representative orthogroups identified conserved prophage-associated genes related to replication, helicase activity, and phage packaging, whereas variable orthogroups were primarily associated with hypothetical or accessory prophage-related functions. Overall, these results are consistent with a model in which CLas prophage diversification is associated more with sequence-level variation and localized structural differences than with extensive gain or loss of prophage genes. These findings further refine current understanding of CLas genome evolution and highlight conserved prophage-associated targets that may support molecular diagnostics and epidemiological surveillance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)

13 pages, 228 KB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Space as a Laboratory of Democratic Change: Ressentiment, Social Love, and Social Transformation

by Letizia Carrera

Soc. Sci. 2026, 15(6), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci15060410 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

This article investigates the intricate interplay between ressentiment—as social emotion—social love, and solidarity in democratic societies, focusing on the urban environment as the primary stage where these processes materialize. Far from being a marginal emotion, ressentiment is deeply intertwined with democratic life, arising from the gap between proclaimed values and lived conditions. It represents an affective reaction to the perceived betrayal of the promise of equality inscribed in democratic ideals. The discussion explores how perceptions of injustice can fracture trust and intensify divisions, but also how they, under certain conditions, can be redirected toward political engagement and common action. The city, characterized by density, diversity, and the continuous negotiation of difference, can serve as a privileged arena for this transformation. Urban space does not merely reflect inequalities; it actively shapes social processes and provides the infrastructure through which collective sentiments are articulated. In this context, “social love” is conceptualized not as a sentimental aspiration, but as a relational force capable of redirecting the moral indignation of ressentiment, far from strategies of grievance politics toward constructive forms of social and political belonging. Cities can function as laboratories of solidarity where grievances are reframed into collective projects that strengthen social cohesion. Mitigating the destructive potential of ressentiment requires addressing its structural roots through inclusive urban policies and dialogical spaces. An approach grounded in social love can counter fragmentation, mobilizing emotions in the service of substantive equality. In this perspective, the city can become a space and a laboratory for change, where resentment can be channeled as a generative force capable of sustaining widespread forms of social love and a sense of the common good. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Civic Potential of Love: Solidarity in Action and the Making of the Social)

52 pages, 1200 KB

Open AccessReview

Ultra-High-Performance Geopolymer Concrete: Materials, Performance Characteristics, Durability and Microstructural Insights

by Salmabanu Luhar and Ismail Luhar

J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(6), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10060327 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable construction materials has led to significant advancements in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), with a particular focus on geopolymer-based systems as an alternative to conventional cementitious binders. This review explores the latest developments in sustainable Ultra-High-Performance Geopolymer Concrete (UHPGPC) by analysing key material composition, mechanical, durability and microstructural properties. The incorporation of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), silica fume (SF), and fly ash (FA) has demonstrated notable improvements in compressive strength, durability, and workability. Additionally, the use of activators such as sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide optimizes geopolymerization, resulting in a denser microstructure and enhanced mechanical performance. This review highlights the critical role of fibre reinforcement in UHPGPC, where steel fibres (SFs) and hybrid fibres significantly enhance compressive and tensile strength, as well as crack resistance. The inclusion of waste materials such as rice husk ash and recycled glass promotes sustainability by reducing CO₂ emissions while maintaining structural integrity. However, higher waste-glass content may adversely affect bonding due to its smooth surface texture. The findings highlight the potential of UHPGC as a high-performance, eco-friendly alternative to traditional cement-based UHPC. By integrating industrial by-products and alternative activation techniques, UHPGPC can contribute significantly to the global shift towards sustainable and low-carbon construction materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Composite Construction Materials, 3rd Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1033 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Phytochemical Studies on the Aerial Parts of Teucrium davaeanum Coss. and Teucrium zanonii Pamp.

by Randa Aldaba, Azmi Hanoğlu, Duygu Yiğit Hanoğlu, Kemal Hüsnü Can Başer, Mehmet Öztürk, Ahmet Ceyhan Gören, Simon Jurt and İhsan Çalış

Molecules 2026, 31(12), 2196; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31122196 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Phytochemical studies performed on the aerial parts of Teucrium davaeanum Coss. resulted in the isolation of an iridoid diglycoside, teucardoside; two phenylethanoid triglycosides, poliumoside and 3-O-methyl-poliumoside; a flavon C-diglycoside, vicenin-2 (apigenin-6,8-di-C-glycoside); and a newly described bisdesmosidic oleanane-type triterpene saponin, davaeanoside. Structure elucidations of all isolated metabolites are based on extensive spectroscopic analysis and chemical derivatizations. The extract and isolated compounds (1–5) were tested for α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. IC50 values were measured for all extracts and compounds and compared against acarbose. Results revealed weak or moderate α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity at the tested concentrations of the isolated compounds, especially compound 5. However, these findings do not exclude antidiabetic activity mediated by other mechanisms such as modulation of insulin signaling, enhancement of glucose uptake, or antioxidant effects. Further studies are warranted to explore these potential pathways. In addition, the essential oils of T. davaeanum and T. zanonii were obtained by hydrodistillation and simultaneously analyzed by GC-FID and GC/MS. The major compounds of T. davaeanum essential oil were germacrene D (31.4%) and bicyclogermacrene (15.9%); the main compounds of T. zanonii were β-pinene (19.5%), α-muurolene (13.4%), oxo-7,8-dihydro-β-ionol (9.2%), and α-pinene (6.9%). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Compounds in Modern Therapies, 3rd Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 14285 KB

Open AccessReview

Clonal Hematopoiesis and Gut Microbiota-Derived TMAO as Candidate Amplifiers of Cardiovascular Inflammation: The CHIDT Hypothesis

by Eugenio Caradonna, Fulvio Ferrara, Lucy Costantino, Fortuna Iannuzzo, Nicola Testa, Luca Giordano, Alice Faversani, Carlo Setacci, Ettore Novellino and Emilio Vanoli

Antioxidants 2026, 15(6), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15060781 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) and the gut microbiota-derived metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) are both linked to NLRP3-mediated cardiovascular inflammation, but their interaction has not previously been explored. This work proposes the CHIDT axis (clonal hematopoiesis–dysbiosis–TMAO), a feed-forward mechanism in which TET2 loss-of-function CHIP- and TMAO-generating Gram-negative gut dysbiosis mutually enhance cardiovascular risk. The model proceeds in three nodes. CHIP-associated intestinal immune dysregulation promotes luminal expansion of Gammaproteobacteria, which produce both trimethylamine via CntA/CntB-mediated L-carnitine oxidation and ADP-heptose as an obligate LPS biosynthetic intermediate. TMAO amplifies NLRP3 inflammasome activation through the SIRT3 → SOD2 → mtROS pathway. The evidence base of the CHIDT model is strongest for TET2-CHIP; the proposed extension to DNMT3A-CHIP rests on indirect, associative data and requires dedicated experimental confirmation before it can be considered established. TXNIP cascade, with predicted disproportionate potency in macrophages epigenetically primed by TET2 haploinsufficiency. High concentrations of TMAO have also been shown to suppress TET2 expression in endothelial cells through CYTB promoter hypermethylation, inducing NLRP3–GSDMD-dependent pyroptosis, although it remains unclear whether physiological TMAO levels can trigger this effect. Concurrently, ADP-heptose activates the ALPK1–TIFA–NF-κB pathway in bone marrow progenitors, favoring the expansion of mutant hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. The model identifies three potential therapeutic strategies: NLRP3 inhibition, microbial TMA lyase inhibition, and microbiome-targeted reduction in Gram-negative bacteria. None has been tested in CHIP carriers stratified by plasma TMAO. Further studies in preclinical models and human cohorts integrating CHIP genotyping and TMAO quantification are needed to validate the CHIDT axis as a target for precision cardiovascular prevention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Oxidative Stress to Counteract or Prevent Human Disease)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 463 KB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond the Mission: Long-Term Endocrine Dynamics in Search and Rescue Dog–Handler Teams

by Justyna Wojtaś, Klaudia Kaliszyk, Kamila Kaszycka, Piotr Czyżowski, Aneta Strachecka, Patrycja Staniszewska, Bengü Bi̇lgi̇ç and Mehmet Erman Or

Animals 2026, 16(12), 1934; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16121934 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Search and rescue (SAR) dog–handler teams work under challenging conditions that may influence long-term physiological stress and arousal. Hair steroid analysis provides a reliable measure of chronic endocrine activity in SAR teams. Hair cortisol (HCL) and hair testosterone (HTL) offer non-invasive markers of chronic hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) and (the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal) HPG axis activity. This study examined long-term endocrine patterns in SAR dogs and their handlers and explored correlations within and between species. Hair samples were collected from 60 SAR dogs and their handlers. Dog hair was taken from the interscapular region, and human hair from the occipital area. Cortisol and testosterone were extracted using established methanol-based protocols and quantified via ELISA. Dogs showed a mean HCL of 10.974 pg/mg and a mean HTL of 3.008 pg/mg. Female dogs had significantly higher cortisol levels than males, and cortisol tended to increase with age. Testosterone did not differ by sex, breed, or castration status. Handlers showed a mean HCL of 10.874 pg/mg and a mean HTL of 2.925 pg/mg, with no sex differences. However, handler cortisol levels varied significantly by dog breed. Additionally, HCL levels of dogs and their handlers were negatively correlated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Working Dogs: Behavioral, Ethical, and Societal Dimensions of Human–Animal Teaming)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 513 KB

Open AccessArticle

When Self-Care Isn’t Enough: The Practice of Soul Care and Mitigation of Soul Wounds in Public Child Welfare Workers

by Nancy Kuhuski and Sarah Dubitzky

Soc. Sci. 2026, 15(6), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci15060409 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Protecting the safety and well-being of children in public child welfare is one of the most critical and demanding jobs in social work. Burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and moral injury are prevalent in this field and often occur simultaneously. This intersectional experience impacts the deepest level of a person—their soul. When left unaddressed, these soul wounds come at a high cost to the workers, organizations they work for, the clients they serve, and their greater communities. This qualitative study sought to explore and identify the characteristics of soul care and the power it has to transform the lived experiences of child welfare workers. Collaborative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven workers who had been in this field for 10 or more years and described themselves as having good soul care. Findings from this study concluded the combination of strongly held core beliefs and engagement in a steady regulation loop constituted soul care. Soul care can occur regardless of circumstance. When a soul wound occurs, the Soul Wound Cycle is activated. The momentum of the regulation loop propels one’s movement through this cycle, allowing the processing of the soul wound, resulting in increased resiliency and regaining of equilibrium, ultimately leading to better outcomes for children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Public Child Welfare System: Discourses on Research, Practice and Policy)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 21505 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Mitochondria-Targeted Nitroxide Radical Mitigates Radiation-Induced Liver Injury by Attenuating Oxidative Stress and Preserving Mitochondrial Function

by Miaomiao Li, Xiaojun Deng and Haibo Wang

Antioxidants 2026, 15(6), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15060780 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Radiation-induced liver injury (RILI) is a major complication of abdominal radiotherapy, originating from mitochondrial oxidative stress, and effective radioprotectants are lacking. We designed an antioxidant intended to target mitochondria, TPP-C6-NIT, by conjugating a triphenylphosphonium cation to an imidazole nitroxide radical. Its protective effects were evaluated through in vitro assays, studies on irradiated L-02 and Huh-7 cells, a mouse model of whole-body irradiation, combined with metabolomics, molecular docking, and assessments of mitochondrial function, apoptosis, and inflammation. TPP-C6-NIT exhibited potent radical scavenging activity in vitro. In L-02 cells, it reduced oxidative stress, preserved mitochondrial function (membrane potential, ATP, respiratory capacity), and improved viability. In mice, pretreatment with TPP-C6-NIT significantly improved survival, alleviated liver injury (reduced serum ALT/AST and histopathological damage), and suppressed systemic inflammation. Mechanistic exploration suggested TPP-C6-NIT treatment was associated with increased Nrf2/GPX4 expression and reversal of lipid metabolic changes. Notably, TPP-C6-NIT did not confer significant protection in Huh-7 cells, indicating selective cytoprotection. By reducing oxidative stress and preserving mitochondrial function, TPP-C6-NIT demonstrates potent protection against radiation-induced liver injury in a whole-body irradiation mouse model, presenting a promising candidate for further development. Full article

21 pages, 4060 KB

Open AccessArticle

Liraglutide, a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist, Mitigates LPS-Induced Osteoclastogenesis and Bone Loss by Downregulating Macrophage TNF-α Expression

by Kou Murakami, Hideki Kitaura, Fumitoshi Ohori, Aseel Marahleh, Angyi Lin, Ziqiu Fan, Kohei Narita, Tomoko Ishiyama, Jin Hu, Huidan Zheng and Hiroyasu Kanetaka

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5624; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125624 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, restores hyperglycemic conditions in patients with type 2 diabetes and has recently shown promising anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we explored its potential to suppress osteoclast formation and bone loss triggered by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an inflammatory agent. In animal models, the co-administration of liraglutide with LPS on the calvaria regions in mice markedly reduced osteoclast numbers and bone resorption areas relative to treatment with LPS alone. Furthermore, the expression levels of receptor activators of the NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α mRNA were notably lower in the group receiving liraglutide and LPS compared to treatment with LPS alone. Moreover, in vitro tests revealed that liraglutide has no direct inhibitory effect on RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and TNF-α-induced osteoclastogenesis. In addition, liraglutide had no direct inhibitory effect on LPS-stimulated RANKL expression in osteoblasts. Moreover, liraglutide effectively suppressed TNF-α mRNA expression in macrophages stimulated by LPS. These findings suggest that liraglutide prevents inflammatory bone destruction not by targeting osteoclast formation directly but by inhibiting the production of TNF-α within macrophages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic Regulators of Bone Health)

15 pages, 2222 KB

Open AccessArticle

Activity of DNA- and RNA-Guided Prokaryotic Argonautes in Human Mitochondria

by Beatrisa Rimskaya, Ekaterina Kropocheva, Iaroslava Ponomareva, Lada Karchemkina, Lidiya Lisitskaya, Daria Gelfenbein, Egor Ulashchik, Vadim Shmanai, Andrey Kulbachinskiy and Ilya Mazunin

Cells 2026, 15(12), 1129; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15121129 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Precise manipulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) by CRISPR-Cas systems remains challenging, largely due to inefficient import of guide RNAs, motivating the exploration of alternative programmable nucleases. Here, we show that prokaryotic Argonaute nucleases (pAgos) of various classes can be efficiently targeted to human mitochondria. Using the Su9 mitochondrial targeting sequence from Neurospora crassa, we achieved robust mitochondrial import of four pAgos—DecAgo, CbuAgo, KmaAgo and RslAgo. As a functional readout of their activity in cells, we targeted the single-stranded D-loop region, which plays a central role in mtDNA replication and maintenance, reasoning that cleavage at this site was expected to potentially result in a reduction in mtDNA copy number. Of the four enzymes, only RNA-guided DecAgo induced a pronounced reduction in mtDNA levels, decreasing copy number approximately fivefold within 48 h. Unexpectedly, this effect occurred independently of exogenous guides, suggesting that DecAgo may utilize endogenous mitochondrial guide RNAs. These findings identify DecAgo as an active nuclease in human mitochondria and reveal a previously unrecognized mode of targeting, highlighting the need to further investigate the underlying mechanism and the potential role of endogenous guide molecules, as well as improving targeting specificity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mitochondria at the Crossroad of Health and Disease—Second Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 32925 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Case Study About Exploring Sustainability Through an Environmental Robotic Engineering Design

by Mantoura Nakad, Jean Claude Assaf, Katia Karam and Rami J. Abboud

Sustainability 2026, 18(12), 6369; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18126369 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Engineering education plays a critical role in preparing future engineers to address sustainability challenges, which can be taught through diverse pedagogical approaches. This paper explores how active learning approaches, project-based learning and design-based learning can foster a holistic understanding of sustainability through an interdisciplinary engineering project, which aimed to design a solar-powered robotic system developed for environmental (ENVIBOT) monitoring of air, water, and soil quality. First, the study presents a technical description of the design. Subsequently, semi-structured reflective questions were used to capture students’ perceptions of sustainability, problem solving, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional responsibility. As such, this study adopted a qualitative case study approach in which thematic analysis of the reflections revealed that participation in an interdisciplinary project enabled students to move beyond a narrow environmental interpretation of sustainability. The findings suggest that combining design projects with a standalone sustainability course may further strengthen students’ awareness. Students also demonstrated increased awareness of systems thinking, real-world constraints, and the societal role of engineers in promoting sustainable solutions. Projects such as the ENVIBOT can not only serve as effective pedagogical tools to enhance students’ understanding of sustainability concepts, but can also act as platforms for developing technical competence, maturity and professional responsibility. These findings highlight the potential of integrating sustainability more effectively into engineering curricula and practice alike. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 1511 KB

Open AccessReview

Isothiocyanates as Multi-Target Natural Compounds in Leukemia: Mechanisms, Selectivity, and Therapeutic Potential

by Alberto Yoldi Vergara, Kristina Simonicova, Anna Bertova, Zdena Sulova, Albert Breier and Denisa Imrichova

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5620; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125620 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Natural compounds are increasingly explored as complementary strategies to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and reduce toxicity. Among these are isothiocyanates (ITCs), bioactive metabolites derived from glucosinolates in cruciferous vegetables, which have gained substantial attention for their chemopreventive and antileukemic potential. ITCs exert diverse biological effects driven by the high reactivity of the –NCS group, enabling covalent modification of key cellular proteins and modulation of signaling pathways. Well-studied representatives, including sulforaphane (SFN), allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), 6-(methylsulfinyl)hexyl isothiocyanate (6-MITC), benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), and phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), exhibit diverse antileukemic activities, including cytotoxic, pro-apoptotic, differentiation-inducing, and cell-cycle-modulating effects. Although individual compounds differ in their relative potency and predominant biological responses, their activities are generally mediated through multiple interconnected mechanisms including oxidative stress modulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, regulation of apoptosis-related proteins, and interference with key signaling pathways. In addition to apoptosis, several ITCs have also been reported to induce autophagy, ferroptosis, or cellular differentiation in leukemic cells. Taken together, the existing evidence highlights ITCs as promising candidates for leukemia chemoprevention or therapy, acting through multi-targeted mechanisms that may complement conventional treatment strategies. Further studies are needed to clarify their selectivity, mechanistic diversity, and translational potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Nutrition and Cancer: Molecular Insights into Cancer Prevention and Development)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 1528 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Capabilities for AI-Enabled Exploration: Antecedents, Mechanisms, and Innovation Outcomes

by Thabit Atobishi and Saeed Nosratabadi

J. Theor. Appl. Electron. Commer. Res. 2026, 21(6), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/jtaer21060196 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

While the operational benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI) are well-documented, the mechanisms through which firms leverage AI for strategic exploration and radical innovation remain under-theorized. This study addresses the “black box” of AI value creation by integrating the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework with the Dynamic Capabilities View (DCV). We propose that AI adoption is not a direct antecedent to performance but a multi-stage process wherein technological, organizational, and environmental factors enable the development of sensing capability, which in turn fosters a novel capability we term “AI-Enabled Exploration.” Analyzing survey data from 245 senior executives in Saudi Arabia, a high-growth economy undergoing state-led digital transformation, we employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the model. The results confirm a serial mediation chain: organizational readiness and technology compatibility drive sensing capability, which subsequently powers AI-enabled exploration to enhance innovation performance. Contrary to expectations, government support was not a significant predictor of sensing capability, suggesting that in resource-rich environments, external incentives are necessary but insufficient for capability building. Furthermore, competitive pressure was found to positively moderate the relationship between organizational readiness and exploration, acting as a critical catalyst that converts latent resources into active experimentation. These findings offer a theoretical roadmap for firms attempting to transition from AI-driven efficiency to AI-driven ambidexterity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Management—The Influence of Artificial Intelligence on Digital Business and Digital Entrepreneurship)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 5987 KB

Open AccessArticle

Textilinin-1, a Snake Venom-Derived Kunitz-Type Protease Inhibitor, Accelerates Wound Healing Through Anti-Inflammatory, Antibacterial, and Pro-Regenerative Activities

by Zhuo Chen, Huiwen Pang, Youzhi Wu, David M. Klyne, Xuqiang Nie, Pengfei Jiang, Xinfei Wu, Kong-Nan Zhao and Felicity Y. Han

Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(6), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18060762 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Chronic wounds remain a formidable clinical challenge due to the suboptimal efficacy of conventional delivery systems and therapeutics. Textilinin-1, a venom-derived Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor, has previously established its profile as a potent hemostatic agent. However, its potential as a multifunctional biopharmaceutical for wound management remains largely untapped. This study evaluates the pharmacological effects of Textilinin-1 in preclinical models of cutaneous wound repair. Methods: We employed an integrated platform comprising bioinformatics, in vitro cellular assays, and in vivo murine excisional wounds and a pilot porcine proof-of-concept model to assess the wound healing-promoting effects of Textilinin-1 and explore associated cellular responses associated with key stages of the wound healing cascade. Results: Textilinin-1 was associated with multiple cellular responses relevant to tissue repair. It attenuated M1-like inflammatory activation and showed preliminary growth-inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus under the tested conditions. Concurrently, it enhanced the proliferative and migratory capacity of fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and keratinocytes, which are key cellular targets for wound closure. In pre-clinical pilot porcine and rodent models, Textilinin-1 treatment was associated with accelerated wound contraction and improved structural tissue quality. Conclusions: Our findings provide preclinical evidence that Textilinin-1 may promote cutaneous wound repair and modulate cellular responses relevant to key stages of the wound healing cascade. These results support further investigation of Textilinin-1 as a candidate for wound repair applications. Future studies are required to define its precise molecular mechanisms, evaluate its efficacy in chronic or otherwise compromised wound models, and optimize its topical formulation or hydrogel-based delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Delivery and Therapeutic Strategies for Chronic Diseases and Pain)

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 855 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Healthcare Professionals’ Approaches to Promoting Physical Activity and Reducing Sedentary Behaviour in Clinical Paediatric Populations in South Wales

by Amie B. Richards, Rachel L. Knight, Kelly A. Mackintosh, Joanne Hudson, Sarah Denford and Melitta A. McNarry

Healthcare 2026, 14(12), 1801; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14121801 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Physical inactivity is a significant public health challenge among children and young people (CYP), particularly within clinical populations. Whilst healthcare professionals (HCPs) are uniquely positioned to implement behaviour change strategies, there is little evidence of implementation in practice. This study examined the practices of, as well as barriers and facilitators experienced by, HCPs in South Wales, United Kingdom (UK), when promoting physical activity (PA) and reducing sedentary behaviour (SED) in clinical paediatric populations, together with their perceptions and proficiencies in delivering this support. Methods: A 32-item questionnaire was completed by 41 HCPs, recruited through professional and clinical networks to generate an opportunistic sample from physiotherapists (n = 22), doctors (n = 7), occupational therapists (n = 4), therapy technical instructors (n = 2), and others (n = 1 each). Quantitative responses were analysed using descriptive statistics; free-text responses underwent qualitative content analysis. Results: The findings revealed that 95% of HCPs discussed PA at some or all appointments, with similar figures reported for SED (90%) and exercise (88%). However, only 63% of participants felt PA was adequately addressed within their services. Barriers included time constraints, resource limitations, and knowledge gaps. Key facilitators included training, toolkit availability, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Conclusions: This study highlights the need for system-level changes to enable HCPs to deliver consistent, effective messaging that promotes PA and reduces SED, ultimately improving health outcomes for CYP receiving clinical input. Facilitating this approach requires embedding PA promotion into HCP training, expanding referral pathways to CYP, and strengthening multidisciplinary working. Full article

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

Oops... you haven't selected anything for export.

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 760.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (37,954)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI