Search Results (5,732)

Rhaponticum carthamoides (Willd.) Iljin. (Leuzea carthamoides, Maral root), a medicinally valuable species listed in the Red Book of Kazakhstan, is known for its rich phytochemical profile. However, limited data exist on its microclonal propagation. This study aimed to optimize in vitro and medium-term storage conditions using biotechnological methods. Mature seeds collected from natural populations in the Kazakhstani Altai were germinated, and tissues from the seedlings were used as explants. Sterile shoots were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 3.0 mg L⁻¹ −6-benzylaminopurine and 3.0 mg L⁻¹ kinetin. For shoot induction, MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mg L⁻¹ meta-Topolin and using stem apices as explants yielded optimal results. Medium-term storage with chlorocholine chloride at 0.1–0.4 g/L effectively preserved regenerative capacity for further rooting. After 12 months of storage, plantlets were transferred to half-strength MS medium with 3.0 g/L activated carbon and at 2.0 or 5.0 mg L⁻¹ indole-3-butyric acid for rooting. Regenerated plants were successfully acclimatized ex vitro. The 20-hydroxyecdysone content in field-grown plants post-storage reached 9.24 mg/mL, 2.4-fold higher than in wild plants. Inter simple sequence repeat analysis confirmed genetic stability. Our optimized protocol ensures high-yield metabolite production and genetic fidelity, enabling in vitro conservation, nursery-scale cultivation, and the restoration of R. carthamoides natural populations. Full article

This article explores the papacy as a multifaceted form of cultural heritage, emphasizing the pope not only as a religious leader but also as a living symbol and institutional embodiment of Catholic heritage. Positioned at the intersection of theology, history, and heritage science, the study seeks to bridge the gap between spiritual authority and cultural memory by introducing a novel interpretive category: the pope as a living component of intangible religious heritage. The research combines a comprehensive literature review with an analysis of papal documentation, especially papal constitutions. Special attention is given to public engagement with the papacy, as reflected in internet search trends during significant ecclesiastical events such as papal deaths and conclaves. The results indicate that the pope functions as a living link in the continuity of Catholic identity, with digital indicators revealing peaks of global interest aligned with pivotal moments in Church leadership. The study also defines the roles and functions of the pope as a narrative bearer, initiator, and symbolic custodian of papal cultural heritage. Overall, the findings reinforce the papacy’s dual role as both a theological and sociocultural institution, offering new perspectives for understanding religious leadership as a medium of cultural transmission and public relevance in a digitized world. Full article

This study investigates how the gender of human resource (HR) managers and the presence of rationality culture (RC) in organizations jointly influence women employees’ workplace outcomes, including interpersonal affinity, job involvement, and organizational loyalty. Drawing on feminist organizational theory and social identity theory, the study examines whether women HR managers are associated with more positive outcomes for women employees and whether the dominance of RC moderates these effects. RC, rooted in bureaucratic logic and objectivity, may diminish the perceived value of relational and inclusive HR practices—especially in highly formalized work environments. The study employs a survey-based quantitative method using data from the Korean Women Managers Panel, which includes responses from over 346 women working in medium- and large-sized organizations in South Korea. Directional hypotheses are tested, proposing that women HR managers positively influence employee outcomes, but this effect may be weakened in organizations where RC is strongly embedded. The findings contribute to organizational behavior and the gender studies literature by clarifying how HR managers’ gender operates under varying cultural norms and revealing the conditional nature of its effectiveness. The study offers both theoretical and practical insights for organizations aiming to foster inclusive environments, with implications for HR strategy, organizational development, and gender Full article

The widespread emergence of resistant pathogenic microorganisms are diminishing the effectiveness of existing antimicrobial drugs, posing an enormous threat to global public health. This phenomenon, known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR), is primarily driven by the misuse and overuse of antimicrobial drugs. Natural product researchers around the globe, in response to antibiotics resistance, are searching for new antimicrobial lead compounds from unexplored or underexplored ecological niches such as the marine environment. In order to isolate new antimicrobial lead compounds, two Streptomyces spp. were isolated from marine sediment samples by a serial dilution technique and subsequently cultured in modified Bennett’s broth medium. Repeated chromatographic steps of ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extracts obtained from the culture broth led to the isolation of a new compound with an unusual chemical skeleton, streptopiperithiazol (1), and a synthetically known (2) compound. These compounds were characterized by the extensive analysis of 1D and 2D spectroscopic as well as HRMS data. The absolute configuration of 1 was unresolved due to limited yield and lack of proper facilities for taking CD and ECD spectra. In vitro activity study of compounds 1 and 2 revealed that these compounds had better activity against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria and yeast. Full article

Since the early 2000s, Malaysian Chinese independent cinema has garnered international recognition, with James Lee emerging as one of its most influential figures. Distinct from many of his contemporaries, Lee’s films feature a unique sound design that plays a pivotal role in articulating cultural identity. This study, grounded in in-depth interviews with the director, investigates how sound aesthetics function as a vital medium for cultural expression. In the postcolonial context of Malaysia, sound is revealed not merely as a narrative device but as a complex tool of cultural translation. Lee’s creative practice exemplifies what this study terms a “sound-driven non-conscious cultural expression”, wherein surreal sound treatments and multilingual environments construct an aesthetic that is both locally rooted and transnational in scope. By drawing upon sound theory and theories of cultural identity, this research uncovers the significance of sound aesthetics in multicultural contexts, offering new perspectives for film and cultural studies alike. Full article

The study of microalgae has led to significant progress in recent decades. The current microalgal biomass yield is unsatisfactory, except for certain species that are cultivated for the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. In this study, the growth efficiency and biochemical composition of Tetradesmus obliquus at high levels of nutrients were characterized. Increasing the NH₄⁺-N content in the medium to 164 mg L⁻¹ allowed the algae to steadily accumulate biomass (6.14 ± 0.28 g L⁻¹) with a moderate content of starch. Optimizing the levels of N, P, and S allowed the biomass productivity to increase from the average 0.45 to 0.88 g L⁻¹ day⁻¹. A further increase of NH₄⁺-N to 410 mg L⁻¹ and other nutrients’ concentration allowed the algae to accumulate biomass (7.50 ± 0.28 g L⁻¹), enriched with protein and pigments. The algae cultivated with the high load of nutrients reached 100%, 84%, and 96% removal of N, P, and S, respectively. Adding the NaHCO₃ to the photobioreactor for pH adjustment (instead of NaOH) did not significantly improve the growth parameters or affect the composition of the algal cells. In general, our study will improve the comprehensive understanding of culture-based approaches to study the perspective use of the alga T. obliquus. Full article

Background/Objectives: Although nutrition is widely recognized as a key factor in post-event recovery in sports, little attention has been given to how its cultural and social dimensions—embodied in local cuisine—intersect with the needs of traveling athletes, for whom food often also serves as a medium of cultural immersion and sensory exploration. Poland, with its rich regional culinary traditions and numerous international running events, offers a compelling context in which to explore these interactions. This study aims to understand the role of local cuisine in the experiences of foreign runners participating in the Poznan Half Marathon 2025, with particular attention on cultural engagement, tourist motivations, and post-exercise recovery processes. Methods: This study was based on a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted with 12 international runners from the United Kingdom, Germany, and Ukraine. The participants possessed a minimum of two years’ experience in traveling for sports. Results: The findings identified three main areas of the significance of food: (1) food as an element of cultural exploration, (2) local cuisine as a motivator or barrier when choosing a race, (3) food as a symbolic reward and structured recovery practice supporting nutritional and psychological processes. Approaches varied by nationality—British participants preferred spontaneous taste discovery, Ukrainians valued culinary comfort similar to home, and Germans planned their culinary experiences with greater awareness. Conclusions: Local cuisine plays a multifaceted role in international running events, serving not only nutritional needs but also emotional and cultural functions that shape the overall participant experience. Both event organizers and local restaurants should consider offering diverse and culturally sensitive food options to enhance recovery, satisfaction, and the appeal of sports tourism destinations. Full article

Follicle health determines the number and quality of sows’ ovulation, thereby influencing the litter size and the piglets’ viability. Granulosa cells (GCs) play a crucial role in follicular formation and development, and oxidative stress-induced GC death is a major cause of follicular dysplasia. Previous studies have confirmed that oxidative stress triggers apoptosis in granulosa cells. In this study, we explored how oxidative stress influences apoptosis in porcine ovarian granulosa cells. We find that porcine atretic follicles exhibit significant oxidative stress, accompanied by the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, including the upregulation of key factors such as apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1). Healthy follicles of 3–5 mm were randomly assigned to the control group, H₂O₂ treatment group, and selonsertib pretreatment group. The porcine ovarian GCs were placed in cell culture medium supplemented with H₂O₂ to assess ROS production, cell proliferation, apoptosis, the expression levels of oxidative stress-related genes, and expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins. In vitro experiments in mouse GCs further confirmed that H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress triggers the upregulation of the MAPK pathway and promotes granulosa cell apoptosis. The results showed that H₂O₂ treatment induced ROS production and apoptosis in porcine GCs and inhibited GC viability. Additionally, selonsertib pretreatment attenuated apoptosis in GCs by inhibiting H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress. In summary, our findings reveal that oxidative stress induced granulosa cell apoptosis via the MAPK signaling pathway, impairing proper follicular development in pigs. Full article

Public health in a densely populated city is inextricably linked to the state of the urban environment. The microclimate, the condition of water sources and sanitary well-being are just some of the many environmental factors that have a strong influence on people’s health. The presence of urban green spaces and various birds in cities is extremely important, also to create a more favorable psychological atmosphere for the people who live and/or work there. At the same time, it should not be forgotten that the feces of synanthropic birds are a favorable environment for various potentially pathogenic species of microorganisms, including yeasts of the genus Candida. Here, we investigated the culturable, potentially pathogenic ascomycetous yeast microbiome in the fresh and dry feces of five synanthropic birds (Rock Pigeon, European Starling, White Wagtail, Great Tit and House Sparrow). The samples were collected in spring (May 2024). In total, 48 Rock Pigeon, 47 European Starling, 38 White Wagtail, 32 Great Tit and 30 House Sparrow droppings were collected and analyzed. The selective medium Brilliance Candida Agar was used for cultivation. A total of 638 strains were isolated belonging to 9 yeast species (Arxiozyma bovina, Candida albicans, Nakaseomyces glabratus, Clavispora lusitaniae, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, Pichia kudriavzevii, Debaryomyces hansenii and D. fabryi). All detected yeast species were molecularly identified using the ITS rDNA region. The microbiome of potential pathogens in fresh feces proved to be significantly host-dependent. Most pathogenic yeasts (7 species)—A. bovina, C. albicans, N. glabratus, Cl. lusitaniae, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis and P. kudriavzevii—were only detected in fresh feces from pigeons. This list contains five out of six ascomycetous species from the list of critical, high and medium-important yeast pathogens published in the World Health Organization fungal list. Of the potentially pathogenic yeasts, two species were observed in the dry droppings of various birds: C. parapsilosis and P. kudriavzevii. No significant differences in the diversity of culturable pathogens in dry droppings were observed between the different hosts. Fresh droppings from synanthropic birds, especially pigeons (and to a lesser extent dry droppings), therefore pose a health risk. In this study, we did not find any feces from synanthropic birds in which potentially pathogenic ascomycetous yeasts were not detected. To maintain the sanitary safety and well-being of citizens, it is very important to regulate the number of synanthropic birds (primarily pigeons), especially in sensitive areas such as playgrounds, hospital territories, etc. Full article

There is evidence that bone health is closely linked to a functioning circadian rhythm. Most of the evidence comes from mice, which may exhibit some species-specific differences from humans due to their nocturnal lifestyle. To address the current lack of human model systems, the present study aimed to develop an in vitro model system that can represent diurnal changes in bone metabolism. The model is based on co-cultured SCP-1 and THP-1 cells that serve as osteoblast and osteoclast precursors, respectively. Diurnal effects were induced by replacing the FCS in the differentiation medium with human serum pools (HSPs) obtained in the morning, noon, or evening. The model system was tested for cell viability, gene expression, and osteoblast and osteoclast function. The replacement of the FCS with the HSPs increased viability and induced expression changes in circadian clock genes in the model system. Resulting alterations in osteoblast and osteoclast function led to a gradual increase in mineral density and stiffness when 3D co-cultures were differentiated in the presence of the HSPs collected in the morning, noon, or evening, respectively. Here, we present for the first time an in vitro model that can present diurnal changes in bone metabolism in the form of a snapshot. With the simple use of HSPs, this model can be used as a platform technique to investigate bone function in various situations, taking into account the time of day. Full article

Franchising operates as a proven business model that drives substantial growth for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) worldwide. The franchise ecosystem in Saudi Arabia lacks sufficient research, despite established frameworks for success in markets such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. This research investigates the elements that lead to franchise success in Saudi Arabia through a combination of qualitative and quantitative data. This research evaluates franchise performance through metrics such as Average Revenue Per Unit (ARPU), Return on Investment (ROI), Franchise Success Rate, Time to Break Even, and Market Growth Rate, comparing Saudi Arabia with the U.S., the U.K., and India to identify essential success determinants. The research reveals that franchise success depends on regulatory frameworks, cultural alignment, economic diversification, and supply chain efficiency. The U.S. and U.K. enjoy established legal protections, whereas Saudi Arabia faces regulatory complexities and resource limitations. The research proposes three strategic recommendations: government incentives, locally adapted business models, and carefully selected locations to boost franchise success. The analysis provides essential information to policymakers, franchisors, and entrepreneurs seeking to expand their businesses in Saudi Arabia. The implementation of Vision 2030 growth barrier solutions and market opportunities will enable Saudi Arabia to build up its franchising sector and enhance market performance. This research adds new knowledge to the franchising literature in emerging markets and its impact on sustainable business growth. Full article

Adult trees of pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) are recalcitrant to vegetative propagation. In this study, we investigated the micropropagation of five oak genotypes corresponding to trees aged 60–800 years in a liquid medium. We used commercial RITA bioreactors to study the influence of the explant type, the culture medium, shoot support and number of immersions. Variables evaluated included the number of normal and hyperhydric shoots, shoot length, multiplication coefficient and number of rootable shoots per explant. All genotypes could be cultured in temporary immersion. Basal stem sections attached to callus grew better than apical sections and developed less hyperhydricity. For long-term cultivation, Gresshoff and Doy medium was the best of the three media evaluated. All genotypes produced vigorous shoots suitable for rooting and acclimation. This is the first protocol to proliferate adult oak trees in bioreactors, representing significant progress towards large-scale propagation of this and other related species. Full article

This study evaluated biomass accumulation and phenolic compound production in seven Hypericum species (H. androsaemum, H. calycinum, H. hirsutum, H. kalmianum, H. olympicum, H. perforatum, and H. triquetrifolium) cultivated in vitro under varying growth regulator treatments and culture periods. Shoots were grown on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with benzyladenine (BA) or meta-topoline (mT) and analyzed after 40 and 60 days. MS medium supplemented with 0.2 mg/L BA was the most effective condition for promoting biomass across all species, with shoot fresh weight increasing significantly at 60 days, particularly in H. olympicum, H. perforatum, and H. triquetrifolium. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS) identified 13 phenolic compounds, including flavonols, hydroxycinnamic acids, anthocyanins, phloroglucinols, and naphthodianthrones. Phenolic profiles were species-specific and influenced by culture period. H. kalmianum accumulated the highest total phenolic content (37.6 mg/g DW), while H. olympicum was the top producer of hypericin and pseudohypericin. These results highlight the crucial role of culture conditions in regulating both biomass and phytochemical production and provide a promising approach for producing bioactive metabolites in Hypericum species through in vitro systems. Full article

Objectives: Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745, a probiotic yeast, is effectively used for the treatment of acute diarrhea as well as for the prevention and treatment of traveller‘s diarrhea and diarrhea under tube feeding. The underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Both antitoxic and regulatory effects on the intestinal barrier, mediated either by the yeast or yeast-derived substrates, have been discussed. Methods: To examine the effects of Saccharomyces boulardii released substrates (S.b.S) on gastrointestinal (GI) barrier function, a murine small intestinal organoid cell model under stress was used. Stress was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure or withdrawal of growth factors from cell culture medium (GF_Red). Stressed organoids were treated with S.b.S (200 µg/mL), and markers of GI barrier and inflammatory response were assessed. Results: GF_Red-induced stress was characterized by disturbances in selected tight junction (TJ) (p < 0.05), adherent junction (AJ) (p < 0.001), and mucin (Muc) formation (p < 0.01), measured by gene expressions, whereby additional S.b.S treatment was found to reverse these effects by increasing Muc2 (from 0.22 to 0.97-fold change, p < 0.05), Occludin (Ocln) (from 0.37 to 3.5-fold change, p < 0.0001), and Claudin (Cldn)7 expression (from 0.13 ± 0.066-fold change, p < 0.05) and by decreasing Muc1, Cldn2, Cldn5, and junctional adhesion molecule A (JAM-A) expression (all p < 0.01). Further, S.b.S normalized expression of nucleotide binding oligomerization domain (Nod)2- (from 44.5 to 0.51, p < 0.0001) and matrix metalloproteinase (Mmp)7-dependent activation (from 28.3 to 0.02875 ± 0.0044 ** p < 0.01) of antimicrobial peptide defense and reduced the expression of several inflammatory markers, such as myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (Myd88) (p < 0.01), tumor necrosis factor α (Tnfα) (p < 0.01), interleukin (IL)-6 (p < 0.01), and IL-1β (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our data provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms by which Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745-derived secretome attenuates inflammatory responses and restores GI barrier function in small intestinal organoids. Full article

Serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBEM) is a powerful technique for three-dimensional ultrastructural analysis of biological samples, though its application to in vitro cultured human cells remains underutilized. In this study, we present an optimized SBEM sample preparation protocol using human dermal fibroblasts and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The method includes key modifications to the original protocol, such as using only glutaraldehyde for fixation and substituting the toxic cacodylate buffer with a less hazardous phosphate buffer. These adaptations result in excellent preservation of cellular ultrastructure, with high contrast and clarity, as validated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The loss of natural cell morphology resulted from fixation during passage, when cells formed a precipitate, rather than from fixation directly within the culture medium. The protocol is time-efficient, safe, and broadly applicable to both stem cells and differentiated cells cultured under 2D conditions, providing a valuable tool for ultrastructural analysis in diverse biomedical research settings. Full article