Search Results (433)

Background: Potent androgen receptor pathway inhibitors induce small cell neuroendocrine prostate cancer (SCNC), a highly aggressive subtype of metastatic androgen deprivation-resistant prostate cancer (ARPC) with limited treatment options and poor survival rates. Patients with metastases in the liver have a poor prognosis relative to those with bone metastases alone. The mechanisms that underlie the different behavior of ARPC in bone vs. liver may involve factors intrinsic to the tumor cell, tumor microenvironment, and/or systemic factors, and identifying these factors is critical to improved diagnosis and treatment of SCNC. Metabolic reprogramming is a fundamental strategy of tumor cells to colonize and proliferate in microenvironments distinct from the primary site. Understanding the metabolic plasticity of cancer cells may reveal novel approaches to imaging and treating metastases more effectively. Methods: Using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and spectroscopy, we interrogated the physiological and metabolic characteristics of SCNC patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) propagated in the bone and liver, and used correlative biochemical, immunohistochemical, and transcriptomic measures to understand the biological underpinnings of the observed imaging metrics. Results: We found that the influence of the microenvironment on physiologic measures using MRI was variable among PDXs. However, the MR measure of glycolytic capacity in the liver using hyperpolarized ¹³C pyruvic acid recapitulated the enzyme activity (lactate dehydrogenase), cofactor (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), and stable isotope measures of fractional enrichment of lactate. While in the bone, the congruence of the glycolytic components was lost and potentially weighted by the interaction of cancer cells with osteoclasts/osteoblasts. Conclusion: While there was little impact of microenvironmental factors on metabolism, the physiological measures (cellularity and perfusion) are highly variable and necessitate the use of combined hyperpolarized ¹³C MRI and multiparametric (anatomic, diffusion-, and perfusion- weighted) ¹H MRI to better characterize pre-treatment tumor characteristics, which will be crucial to evaluate treatment response. Full article

Tomicus yunnanensis Kirkendall and Faccoli, a native bark beetle species and key pest of Pinus yunnanensis Franch. in southwestern China, relies on host-derived volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for host selection. To unravel these mechanisms, we collected VOCs from P. yunnanensis trunks across four infestation stages (healthy, early-infested, weakened, near-dead) using dynamic headspace sampling. Chemical profiling via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified 51 terpenoids, with α-pinene as the most abundant component. VOC profiles differed markedly between healthy and early-infested trees, while gradual shifts in compound diversity and abundance occurred from the weakened to near-dead stages. Bioactive compounds were screened using gas chromatography–electroantennographic detection (GC-EAD) and a Y-tube olfactometer. Electrophysiological responses in T. yunnanensis were triggered by α-pinene, β-pinene, 3-carene, 2-thujene, and 4-allylanisole. Behavioral tests revealed that α-pinene, 3-carene, and 2-thujene acted as attractants, whereas β-pinene and 4-allylanisole functioned as repellents. These results indicate that infestation-induced VOC dynamics guide beetle behavior, with attractants likely promoting host colonization during early infestation and repellents signaling deteriorating host suitability in later stages. By mapping these chemical interactions, our study identifies potential plant-derived semiochemicals for targeted pest management. Integrating these compounds with pheromones could enhance the monitoring and control strategies for T. yunnanensis, offering ecologically sustainable solutions for pine ecosystems. Full article

The progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is shaped by a multifaceted interplay among genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors, alongside gut dysbiosis. Cinnamon, being abundant in polyphenols and flavonoids, shows significant antioxidant effects. Studies have substantiated that cinnamon contributes to the management of glucose and lipid metabolism. However, the anti-diabetic efficacy of cinnamon is not completely understood. The objective of this research was to clarify the anti-diabetic mechanism associated with cinnamon extract through a combination of chemical profiling, network pharmacology, and in vivo investigations. The results indicated that 32 chemical ingredients, including quercetin, were identified through UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. Network pharmacology revealed that 471 targets related to 14 compounds were screened. The analysis of GO enrichment revealed that the primary pathways were notably enhanced in the metabolism of insulin and glucose. In vivo analyses showed that cinnamon could effectively alleviate hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and lipid metabolism abnormalities via increased relative abundance of Akkermansia and Ligilactobacillus at the genus level and a decreased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio at the phylum level. Moreover, cinnamon reduced the serum levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and significantly increased the colon Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin protein levels. It was also observed that cinnamon improved the fecal SCFA levels (acetic, propionic, butyric, valeric and caproic acid), while also modifying the bile acid (BA) profile and increasing the conjugated-to-unconjugated BA ratio. The Western blotting analysis further demonstrated that cinnamon activated intestinal FXR/FGF15 and hepatic PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. In summary, the finding confirmed that cinnamon ameliorated glucose and lipid metabolism disorders by safeguarding the intestinal barrier and modulating the gut microbiota and metabolites, thereby activating intestinal FXR/FGF15 and hepatic PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. Full article

Nitrifying bacteria, including ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB), are players in the nitrogen cycle but pose serious health risks when colonizing drinking water distribution networks (DWDNs). While the global impact of these bacteria is increasingly recognized, a significant research gap remains concerning their effects in tropical regions, particularly in developing countries. This study aims to bridge that gap by systematically reviewing the existing literature on nitrifying bacteria in DWDNs, their behavior in biofilms, and associated public health risks, particularly in systems reliant on surface water sources in tropical climates. Using the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews, 51 relevant studies were selected based on content validity and relevance to the research objective. The findings highlight the critical role of nitrifying bacteria in the formation of nitrogenous disinfection by-products (N-DBPs) and highlight specific challenges faced by developing countries, including insufficient monitoring and low public awareness regarding safe water storage practices. Additionally, this review identifies key surrogate indicators, such as ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate concentrations, that influence the formation of DBPs. Although health risks from nitrifying bacteria are reported in comparable studies, there is a lack of epidemiological data from tropical regions. This underscores the urgent need for localized research, systematic monitoring, and targeted interventions to mitigate the risks associated with nitrifying bacteria in DWDNs. Addressing these challenges is essential for enhancing water safety and supporting sustainable water management in tropical developing countries. Full article

Background/Objectives: Denture hygiene is essential for the prevention of oral candidiasis, a condition frequently associated with Candida albicans colonization on denture surfaces. Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC)-loaded montmorillonite (CPC-Mont) has demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy in tissue conditioners and demonstrates potential for use in antimicrobial coatings. In this study, we aimed to develop and characterize CPC-Mont-containing coating films for dentures, focusing on their physicochemical behaviors and antifungal efficacies. Methods: CPC was intercalated into sodium-type montmorillonite to prepare CPC-Mont; thereafter, films containing CPC-Mont were fabricated using emulsions of different polymer types (nonionic, cationic, and anionic). CPC loading, release, and recharging behaviors were assessed at various temperatures, and activation energies were calculated using Arrhenius plots. Antimicrobial efficacy against Candida albicans was evaluated for each film using standard microbial assays. Results: X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the expansion of montmorillonite interlayer spacing by approximately 3 nm upon CPC loading. CPC-Mont showed temperature-dependent release and recharging behavior, with higher temperatures enhancing its performance. The activation energy for CPC release was 38 kJ/mol, while that for recharging was 26 kJ/mol. Nonionic emulsions supported uniform CPC-Mont dispersion and successful film formation, while cationic and anionic emulsions did not. CPC-Mont-containing coatings maintained antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans on dentures. Conclusions: CPC-Mont can be effectively incorporated into nonionic emulsion-based films to create antimicrobial coatings for denture applications. The films exhibited temperature-responsive, reversible CPC release and recharging behaviors, while maintaining antifungal efficacy, findings which suggest the potential utility of CPC-Mont-containing films as a practical strategy to prevent denture-related candidiasis. Full article

Acne is a highly prevalent skin condition with multifactorial pathophysiology, where Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) overgrowths generate inflammation. C. acnes can grow and adhere, through the formation of biofilms, to almost any surface, which enables chronic infections. Acne treatment with antibiotics can induce topical antimicrobial resistance, impair microbiome biodiversity and cause cutaneous dysbiosis. In this study, we assess the effect of a standardized propolis extract (PE) from Greece against C. acnes, whilst maintaining skin’s microbiome biodiversity, and we investigate its effect against genes related to the attachment and colonization of C. acnes, as well as against biofilm formation. The extract has been chemically characterized by GC-MS and was additionally tested for its antioxidant properties by the Folin–Ciocalteu method and the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and its regulatory activity on the expression of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory genes in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs). The suggested efficacy of PE in targeting pathogenic C. acnes biofilm, via downregulation of virulence genes, represents an alternative strategy to modulate the behavior of skin microbiota in acne, paving the way for next-generation acne-targeting products. Full article

Background/Objectives: Health behavior management plays a critical role in improving outcomes for cancer survivors. This study aims to examine differences in health behaviors based on survival status and time since diagnosis among individuals with gastric or colorectal cancer. Methods: Data were obtained from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES, 2014–2021). Among adults aged ≥40 years, 478 individuals diagnosed with gastric or colorectal cancer within the past 10 years were included. Participants were classified as current patients or survivors based on current disease status, and time since diagnosis was categorized as ≤3 years or >3 years. All analyses accounted for complex sample weights. Differences in health behaviors were evaluated using weighted t-tests and Rao–Scott chi-square tests, and weighted logistic regression was used to assess the association between time since diagnosis and current alcohol use. Results: Current alcohol consumption was significantly more prevalent in survivors (49.2%) than in current patients (29.9%) (p = 0.0002). Among current patients, those diagnosed more than three years earlier showed a higher drinking rate (40.9%) compared with those diagnosed within three years (25.4%) (p = 0.0411). In logistic regression analysis, time since diagnosis >3 years was associated with higher odds of alcohol consumption (OR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.04–5.20), even after adjusting for age and sex. No significant differences were observed in smoking, aerobic activity, strength exercise, or walking. Conclusions: A longer time since diagnosis was associated with increased alcohol consumption in gastric and colorectal cancer patients, highlighting the need for sustained behavioral interventions during survivorship. Full article

This study focuses on the behavior of the Round Goby in relation to various types of hard substrates, which may be crucial in the context of the emergence of hydrotechnical structures in their habitat. The aim of this study was to determine the behavior and habitat preferences of the Round Goby in relation to specific types of hard substrates. Three types of substrates were used in the experiments: bare, colonized by benthic organisms, and rocky. Laboratory observations were conducted and divided into three variants, each with two cycles—daytime and nighttime. Each variant involved different combinations of two substrates. It was found that during the day, fish spent more time on vegetated substrates than on bare or rocky ones. At night, the opposite trend was observed. The lowest activity was recorded when the fish had a choice between bare and rocky substrates. The largest fish in the experiments changed their habitat most frequently, indicating that body size influences the activity level. However, no significant differences were found in either the time spent on specific substrates or the number of substrate changes. In addition, it was observed that the total length of Round Gobies did not affect their activity level. Full article

The aim of this in vitro study is to investigate the adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASC) on Trabecular Titanium scaffolds manufactured with different manufacturing processes (EBM and SLM). The in vitro adhesion and proliferation of hASC on titanium scaffolds with WST assays have been carried out. The comparison of the gene expression profiles of typical bone genes (Alp, Bglap, Col1a1, and Osx) through real-time PCR assays and the evaluation of extracellular matrix composition with immunofluorescence and SEM analysis have been performed. In addition, the possible osteoinductive properties of the two scaffolds have been investigated through real-time PCR and ALP assays. Data showed that Trabecular Titanium supports human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell colonization and induces differentiation in bone with the deposition of the abundant extracellular mineralized matrix regardless of the manufacturing process, proving that the micro- and macro-design features are the key factors responsible for the osteoinduction behavior. These features can only be achieved through tailored 3D printing process parameters. Full article

Background: In burn injuries, wound healing effectiveness is complex and influenced significantly by the local biochemical environment and the physicochemical properties of topical preparations. pH lesions modulation can influence protection barrier integrity, inflammatory responses, and microbial colonization. Their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, of the topical formulations enriched with plant extracts have demonstrated promising results. Objective: The aim of the study was to develop and characterize topical oleogel and hydrogel formulations containing ethanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts of medicinal plants (Boswellia serrata, Ocimum basilicum, Sambucus nigra, and Galium verum), and to evaluate the impact of their physicochemical properties, rheological behavior, in contrast with the wound pH modulation, and healing efficacy in an experimental burn model. Methods: Second-degree burns were induced uniformly on Wistar rats using the validated RAPID-3D device. All formulations were applied daily for 21 days, and wound healing was assessed through several measurements specific to the wound surface, skin temperature, pH, and, last but not least, histological analyses. Formulations’ physicochemical and rheological properties, including pH, viscosity, and spreadability, were also analyzed and systematically characterized. Results: Oleogel formulations demonstrated superior wound healing performance compared to hydrogels. Formulations containing Boswellia serrata and Ocimum basilicum extracts significantly reduced wound size, inflammation, and melanin production by days 9 and 21 (p < 0.05). The beneficial outcomes correlated strongly with formulation acidity (pH < 6), high viscosity, and enhanced thixotropic behavior, indicating improved adherence and sustained bioactive compound release. Histological evaluations confirmed enhanced epithelialization and reduced inflammation. Conclusions: Particularly Boswellia serrata and Ocimum basilicum in oleogel formulations in ethanolic solvent effectively modulated wound pH, enhanced topical adherence, and improved burn wound healing. These findings highlight their potential clinical application and justify further clinical investigations. Full article

Among various plants, corn is the primary host damaged by Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). After long-term regional colonization, its larvae feed on sweet waxy corn and fresh corn for extended periods. A question arises: Does long-term feeding on different corn varieties affect their rhythms? Currently, there are no reports addressing these issues. To facilitate the formulation of effective prevention and control measures, Zhengdan 958 and Zhenghuangnuo were selected as representative varieties of normal and sweet waxy corn, respectively, for laboratory experiments. S. frugiperda were fed the leaves of these two corn types over nine consecutive generations, thereby establishing distinct S. frugiperda strains associated with each corn variety. Additionally, a strain fed an artificial diet served as the control group. Through a comparative analysis of the emergence, movement, nutritional foraging, dormancy, mating, and oviposition behaviors of adult fall armyworms from different populations, differences in the six behavioral peak times among the strains were identified. RT-qPCR analysis indicated significant differences in the expression levels of four circadian clock genes across different populations and tissues of the fall armyworm. Feeding on different host plants influenced the expression of circadian clock genes and their associated behavioral rhythms. Our study showed that sweet corn is more conducive to pupation, mating, and oviposition. Because of these differences in adult insect rhythms, sweet corn may have an impact on the reproduction of fall armyworms in the Huang–Huai–Hai corn-planting region. Full article

The increasing incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) increases the urgency of establishing the mechanism of its development for effective prevention and treatment. ASD’s etiology includes genetic predisposition and environmental triggers, both of which can play a role in the changed microbiota. Recent research has proved the impact of maternal microbiota on the neurodevelopment of the child. To investigate the co-play of genetic and microbiota factors in ASD development, we performed fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from children with ASD to female Shank3b^+/− mice and studied the autism-like symptoms in the male Shank3b^−/− and wild-type (WT) offspring. WT animals with prenatal exposure to ASD microbiota had delayed neurodevelopment and impaired food intake behavior, but also elevated plasma leptin concentration and body weight. Shank3b^−/− mice after FMT ASD exhibited impaired learning and exacerbated anxiety-like behavior in adulthood. Interestingly, FMT ASD improved learning in adolescent Shank3b^−/− mice. Prenatal exposure to ASD microbiota decreased the activity of hypocretin neurons of the lateral hypothalamic area in both genotypes. The combination of genetic predisposition and FMT ASD led to an increased colon permeability, evaluated by zonula occludens (ZO1, ZO3) and claudin factors. These results suggest the effect of parental FMT exposure on shaping offspring behavior in Shank3b^−/− mice and the potential of microbiota in the modulation of ASD. Full article

The Palma Cathedral, a landmark of Mediterranean Gothic architecture, features some of the most structurally daring slender piers in European ecclesiastical design. This study examines the role of marés stone—a local marine calcarenite—in enabling such architectural feats despite its inherent fragility. A multi-technique, non-invasive diagnostic campaign was conducted, including visual inspection, portable microscopy, and infrared thermography, to evaluate the physical condition and behavior of the stone under structural and environmental stress. The results reveal widespread deterioration processes—granular disintegration, alveolization, biological colonization, and structural cracking—exacerbated by the stone’s high porosity and exposure to marine aerosols and thermal fluctuations. Thermographic analysis highlighted moisture retention zones and hidden material discontinuities, while crack monitoring confirmed long-standing, localized structural strain. These findings demonstrate that the Cathedral’s formal audacity was grounded in a refined empirical understanding of marés’ properties. The study underscores the importance of material-based diagnostics for the sustainable conservation of Gothic heritage architecture. Full article

The health benefits associated with microbial species inhabiting aquatic animals have garnered increasing attention, as it is expected that the colonization and efficacy of native probiotic bacteria adapted to the internal environment of the target species will be more active than non-native bacteria. In this study, six isolates were obtained from the intestinal tract of largemouth bass. Three of these isolates demonstrated higher growth ability compared to the others and were further characterized using in vitro assays. Lactococcus lactis LBM15 was found to exhibit antibacterial activity against common pathogens affecting largemouth bass; the adhesion inhibition capabilities of the isolates were systematically evaluated through competitive, repulsive, and substitutive adhesion assays. The strain inhibited adhesion to all six tested pathogen strains, with competitive adhesion inhibition rates ranging from 42% to 54%, the highest of which was observed against V. anguillarum. Repulsive adhesion inhibition rates ranged from 27% to 55%, with the highest rate noted for Edwardsiella tarda. Additionally, substitutive adhesion inhibition rates were found to range from 48% to 76%, with the highest inhibition observed against Aeromonas hydrophila. Furthermore, LBM15 exhibited favorable antimicrobial susceptibility profiles, showing sensitivity to 21 antibiotics tested. Notably, safety assessment trials were performed exposing fish to LBM15 at a concentration of 1 × 10⁹ CFU/mL by injection and at a concentration of 1 × 10⁸ CFU/mL by feed administration. No clinical abnormalities, behavioral alterations, or mortality were documented in either exposure group, confirming the safety of LBM15 for application in aquaculture. The results suggested that LBM15 isolates from largemouth bass have potential for further investigation and possible application as probiotic candidates. Full article

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are rare mesenchymal neoplasms characterized by perivascular epithelioid cell proliferation. They can occur in various organs, but colonic PEComas are exceptionally rare, showing diagnostic challenges due to their nonspecific clinical presentation and similar features to those of other colorectal tumors. We present a case of a 61-year-old female with defecation accompanied by blood clots, initially diagnosed with a suspected tumor in the sigmoid colon. Despite initial biopsy yielding non-informative material, repeat colonoscopy and imaging studies revealed a malignant tumor with multinucleated giant (osteoclast-like) cells and probable p53 mutation, most likely of mesenchymal origin. Robotic surgical resection was performed, and ultimately pathological examination refined the diagnosis as a malignant PEComa of the colon. This case demonstrates the importance of considering PEComa in the differential diagnosis of colonic tumors. Further research is needed to ascertain the clinical behavior and optimal treatment for colonic PEComas. Full article