Search Results (361)

Synthetic polymers are commonly incorporated into natural polymer nanofibers to enhance their overall performance. In this study, we investigated the effects of different poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) concentrations (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10% w/v) on the properties of gelatin/zein nanofibers. With increasing PVA concentration, fiber diameter significantly decreased from 976 ± 165 nm to 262 ± 60 nm, followed by a gradual increase to 396 ± 81 nm, indicating that PVA plays a crucial role in fiber diameter regulation. At higher concentrations (7.5% and 10% w/v), PVA became dominant, inducing protein aggregation and porous channel formation, which in turn increased the water vapor permeability of the composites. Rheological and mechanical analyses revealed that at these concentrations, the composites exhibited enhanced flexibility while maintaining network stability, demonstrating strong application potential. Furthermore, PVA incorporation induced a slight increase in the primary decomposition temperature (from 320.77 °C to 328.67 °C), indicating enhanced intermolecular compatibility and restricted segmental mobility within the protein–PVA network. Overall, these results establish a theoretical basis for tailoring fiber architecture and interfacial compatibility in natural–synthetic polymer composites. Further, the structural attributes of the resulting fibrous mats indicate their potential for food processing applications beyond conventional food packaging, including use as filtration media. Full article

Uncontrolled hemorrhage remains a major challenge in trauma care and surgical interventions, where rapid hemostasis and wound sealing are essential for improving patient survival. Natural polymer-based hydrogels have emerged as promising hemostatic materials owing to their excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and biomimetic properties. However, their clinical translation remains limited by insufficient mechanical robustness, wet adhesion, and functional responsiveness. To address these challenges, considerable progress has been achieved through rational material design and structural engineering strategies. Representative natural polymers, particularly polysaccharides and proteins, exhibit distinct physicochemical and biological characteristics that determine their hemostatic mechanisms and design strategies. Based on these material platforms, molecular modification strategies, including charge regulation, hydrophobic modification, and bioactive functionalization, have been widely employed to modulate interfacial interactions, platelet adhesion, coagulation activation, and tissue adhesion. In parallel, advanced structural architectures, such as porous, particulate, fibrous, multicrosslinked/multinetwork, and nanocomposite systems, have significantly enhanced fluid absorption, mechanical resilience, stress dissipation, and hemorrhage sealing efficiency. Beyond conventional hemostasis, increasing efforts have focused on integrating multifunctional properties, including antibacterial activity, inflammatory regulation, oxidative stress modulation, tissue regeneration, dynamic monitoring, and stimuli-responsive behaviors. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in natural polymer-based hemostatic hydrogels from the perspectives of advanced material modification strategies, structural engineering approaches, and functional integration, with particular emphasis on the relationships among material characteristics, interfacial behavior, structural organization, and hemostatic performance. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives for clinical translation are discussed, aiming to provide valuable insights for the rational design and clinical implementation of next-generation hemostatic biomaterials. Full article

This study evaluated the responses of growing pigs to a matched compound enzyme in two feeding systems: a corn–soybean meal diet and a diversified diet. Two independent experiments were conducted, each using 80 pigs (Duroc × [Landrace × Yorkshire]; average body weight, 33.0 kg), which were assigned to two treatments in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) according to initial body weight and sex, with five replicate pens per treatment and eight pigs per pen. In Exp. 1, pigs were fed a corn–soybean meal diet without or with 0.02% compound enzyme formulated (including xylanase, β-glucanase, β-mannanase, cellulase and pectinase) for this diet type. In Exp. 2, pigs were fed a diversified diet without or with 0.02% compound enzyme (including xylanase, β-glucanase, β-mannanase, cellulase, pectinase, amylase and protease). The supplemental level of the compound enzyme was selected according to the substrate characteristics of each diet, especially the content of fibrous components, and was further aligned with the inclusion rate recommended for practical feed production. Growth performance, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), serum immune and inflammatory indices, jejunal digestive enzyme activities, and cecal microbiota were evaluated. In Exp. 2, the G:F was higher during days 15–28 (p < 0.05) and tended to increase the overall G:F (p = 0.06). In Exp. 1, dietary compound enzyme supplementation increased the ATTD of dry matter (DM), ether extract (EE), and gross energy (GE) on day 28 (p < 0.05), elevated serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentration (p < 0.05) on day 14, reduced serum concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 on day 28 (p < 0.05), and increased jejunal amylase activity (p < 0.05). In Exp. 2, dietary compound enzyme supplementation increased the ATTD of DM, organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), and GE (p < 0.05), and enhanced the activities of amylase and chymotrypsin on day 28 (p < 0.05). Enzyme supplementation reduced the abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae in Exp. 1 (p < 0.05) but increased the abundance of Chlamydiaceae in Exp. 2 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, matched compound enzyme supplementation improved nutrient utilization in both diet systems, but the response profiles differed. The diversified diet system showed clearer improvements in feed efficiency and protein-related digestibility. Full article

Stropharia rugosoannulata mycelium is a naturally fibrous and sustainable protein source for meat analogs; however, its weak gel-forming ability and poor extrudability limit its printability and structural stability. In this study, extrusion-based 3D-printable composite inks were developed using mechanically fragmented mycelium, pea protein isolate (PPI), and curdlan (CUR). The effects of mycelium and CUR concentrations on printability, rheological properties, water-holding capacity, water distribution, thermal properties, and texture were systematically evaluated. The results showed that mechanical fragmentation for 20 s effectively dispersed the mycelial aggregates while preserving the filamentous network. CUR markedly improved extrusion continuity, print accuracy, and shape fidelity after deposition. All inks exhibited shear-thinning behavior. Increasing CUR concentration enhanced apparent viscosity, storage modulus, thixotropic recovery, water-holding capacity, and thermal stability, while converting part of the immobilized water into bound water within the gel network. In addition, CUR strengthened hydrogen bonding in the composite inks. Texture profile analysis of heated meat analogs showed that hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and resilience increased progressively with increasing CUR concentration. Among the tested formulations, the ink containing 50% mycelium, 5% PPI, and 6% CUR exhibited the best balance between printability, structural stability, and meat-like texture, showing the closest textural similarity to boiled chicken breast. These findings provide a practical strategy for fabricating mycelium-based meat analogs with improved printability and meat-like texture. Full article

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is a severe manifestation of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) caused by the rupture of unstable atherosclerotic plaques, resulting in reduced myocardial blood flow. Smoking is a major risk factor for ACS and has been associated with increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, which contributes to the degradation of the plaque fibrous cap. However, the molecular alterations associated with smoking in ACS remain incompletely understood. This study aimed to investigate the expression of α1nAChR, ERK1/2, and c-FOS genes, together with MMP protein levels in atherosclerotic plaque tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of CAD patients. A total of 41 atherosclerotic plaque samples (26 smokers, 15 non-smokers) and 180 clinical subjects [n = 30 per group: ACS, chronic coronary syndrome (CCS), and controls; smokers and non-smokers] were included. Gene expression of ⍺1nAChR, ERK 1/2, and c-FOS was analyzed by RT-qPCR, while protein levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, and TIMP 3 were measured using ELISA. The expression of ERK 1/2 and c-FOS were significantly higher in plaque tissues of smokers compared with non-smokers (1.671- and 1.327-fold; p < 0.05). In PBMCs, α1nAChR expression was higher in CCS smokers (1.383-fold), while ERK 1/2 expression was higher in ACS smokers (1.355-fold). MMP-9 levels were significantly elevated in ACS and CCS compared with controls (p < 0.001). In conclusion, smoking CAD patients demonstrated increased expression of α1nAChR, ERK and MMP-9, indicating smoking-associated alterations in ⍺1nAChR-ERK signaling-related biomarkers in ACS. Full article

Breast implants are among the most frequently used long-term implantable medical devices in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. In addition to correcting anatomical deficits, they have significant psychosocial effects, influencing body image, self-esteem, and quality of life, particularly in patients undergoing postmastectomy reconstruction. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development, biological interactions, material characteristics, and clinical outcomes of breast implants. Early reconstructive attempts using foreign materials and injectable substances were associated with severe complications, underscoring the need for safer technologies. The introduction of silicone gel implants in the 1960s marked a pivotal advancement, followed by the development of saline-filled devices and highly cohesive silicone gels with enhanced mechanical stability. Key surgical considerations, including incision type and implant placement plane (subglandular, submuscular, dual-plane, and subfascial), are discussed in relation to aesthetic outcomes and complication risk. Emphasis is placed on the implant–tissue interface and the foreign body response (FBR), a process involving protein adsorption, immune cell activation, fibrous capsule formation, and potential chronic inflammation. Persistent inflammatory stimulation, often associated with bacterial biofilm formation, contributes to capsular contracture, the most common long-term complication. Additional adverse events include implant rupture, silicone gel bleed, granulomatous reactions, infection, hematoma, implant malposition, and rare but clinically significant conditions such as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). The review also summarizes implant classification according to construction, filling material, shape, and surface topography, highlighting the influence of surface characteristics on host response and clinical outcomes. Advances in biomaterials, cohesive gel formulations, and surface engineering aim to enhance biocompatibility and long-term safety, supported by standardized mechanical and biological testing protocols. Full article

The oil palm production chain generates coproducts whose sustainable valorization remains a challenge. This study tested the hypothesis that partial replacement of the conventional substrate with oil palm coproducts could maintain the productive performance of Zophobas atratus larvae and generate value-added biomass. Mesocarp fiber (MF), palm oil mill effluent (POME), and palm kernel cake (PKC) were characterized in terms of physicochemical composition, carotenoids, and antioxidant capacity and examined as partial substitutes for wheat bran in six diets for Z. atratus. PKC demonstrated higher levels of protein (15.27%), carbohydrates (65.68%), neutral detergent fiber (68.35%), acid detergent fiber (37.70%), and saturated fatty acids (83.06%) and greater antioxidant capacity associated with phenolic compounds. MF showed the highest carotenoid content (138.27 mg/100 g), and POME had the highest lipid content (17.69%). Diet containing 50% PKC-supplemented wheat bran promoted higher feed conversion efficiency (78.99%), lower feed conversion ratio (0.90%), and higher larval protein content (39.14%) and maintained performance similar to that of the control. Larvae fed on 50% MF exhibited carotenoid bioaccumulation, with >190% increase compared with the control. Although the coproducts demonstrate potential as substrates, mortality restricts their technical feasibility. Their use depends on an adequate protein/energy balance and the digestibility of the fibrous fraction for strategic supplementation. Full article

Introduction. The superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) is fundamental for facial soft tissue support and surgical rejuvenation. Although its morphology in the midface and neck is well characterized, the structure of its cranial extension to the forehead remains a subject of terminological uncertainty. The aim of this study was to conduct a detailed histological and immunohistochemical examination of the forehead supporting structures to characterize their morphology and propose an expanded, region-specific classification of the SMAS. Material and methods. Full-thickness tissue specimens (n = 30) were obtained from five standardized facial regions (parotid, buccal, temporal, frontal, and cervical) from 12 male and 18 female body donors (aged 25–70 years). Specimens were processed for histological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin, van Gieson staining, and Masson’s trichrome. Immunohistochemical staining for S100 protein was used to identify neural structures. Morphometric analysis was performed on digitized sections to quantify interseptal distances and the depth of superficial nerve trunks. Results. The analysis confirmed the established SMAS types (I–V) in the cheek, parotid gland, and neck, confirming the validity of the method. Two distinct, sequentially arranged structures were identified on the forehead, proposed as new types. Type VI (neurovascular arborization) is a discrete fan-shaped structures with a central collagen core surrounding a neurovascular bundle, showing positive S100 staining. These structures, spaced approximately 2.2 mm apart, function as true retaining ligaments. Type VII (fibroseptal) SMAS patterns is vertically oriented, purely fibrous septa (retinacula cutis) connecting the aponeurosis to the dermis, devoid of neural elements, and spaced approximately 9.2 mm apart. Importantly, the superficial nerve trunks were located at an average depth of only 1.09 mm (range: 0.57–1.97 mm) from the skin surface. Conclusion. This study identified two novel SMAS patterns in the forehead—neurovascular arborization (type VI) and fibroseptal (type VII)—supporting the expanded functional seven-type classification of the SMAS. The extremely superficial location of the forehead nerves (average 1.1 mm) defines a critical “danger zone” for aesthetic procedures. These findings provide a refined anatomical basis for improving the precision and safety of both surgical and minimally invasive facial procedures. Full article

Replicating the authentic masticatory properties of conventional animal meat remains a primary technical bottleneck for sustainable plant-based analogues. To address critical textural deficiencies like structural fragmentation, this study systematically optimized plant-based patty formulations. The independent and interactive effects of textured fibrous soy protein (TFSP), water, and konjac glucomannan (KGM) were quantified using single-factor experiments and Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Single-factor experiments revealed that springiness peaked at 60 g TFSP, 15 g water, and 10 g KGM, respectively, with excessive additions of each component resulting in structural network disruption. Designating springiness as the core metric, a reliable quadratic regression model identified the optimal matrix: 63.36 g TFSP, 14.39 g water, and 8.57 g KGM. Empirical validation achieved a maximum springiness of 1.56 mm and hardness of 5.51 N, with a negligible relative error (1.27%) from theoretical predictions. Mechanistically, KGM functioned as an active polymeric filler, interacting synergistically with hydrated protein fibers via hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic associations to reinforce the structural network. Comparative Texture Profile Analysis demonstrated that the optimized PBP exhibited a tender masticatory profile with hardness and springiness approximating conventional beef patties, while presenting lower chewiness and higher adhesiveness attributable to the water-binding capacity of KGM. Ultimately, this research provides mathematically validated engineering parameters and theoretical insights into protein–polysaccharide phase behaviors to facilitate the industrial manufacturing of premium plant-based meats. Full article

Myofibrillar protein microgel particles (MMP) are promising Pickering stabilisers due to their structure and delivery potential. However, their fibrous, irregular shape promotes aggregation, limiting practical use. This study investigated the effect of xanthan gum (XG) concentration (0.025–0.4%) on MMP dispersion in water and its role in stabilising Pickering emulsions. FTIR and interaction analysis revealed that hydrophobic interactions dominate between XG and MMP, followed by hydrogen bonding and electrostatic forces. At higher XG concentrations (0.2–0.4%), complex particle size decreased from 5.21 μm to 4.49 μm, the contact angle increased from 57.67° to 77.33°, and a uniform dispersed state was achieved. Although increasing XG gradually reduced the emulsifying activity of MMP, it significantly improved the emulsion stability. Microstructure analysis showed that at low XG concentrations, emulsions exhibited phase separation. Rheological measurements indicated that XG-MMP complexes increased continuous-phase viscosity and shear resistance, enhancing macroscopic stability. In summary, at a critical XG concentration of 0.2%, the emulsion undergoes a transition from aggregation-driven instability to network-mediated stabilisation, achieved through the interfacial layer with spatial confinement by a weak aqueous-phase network. This work provides a theoretical foundation and a practical design strategy for fabricating highly stable, tuneable Pickering emulsions based on protein microgel particles. Full article

This study evaluated how a partial substitution of pea protein isolate (PPI) with brewer’s spent grain (BSG) or barley rootlets (BRs) affects high-moisture meat analogues (HMMAs). PPI was substituted with 10% and 20% with BSG or BRs, respectively. Extrudates were produced on a co-rotating twin-screw extruder at maximum temperatures of 140 °C and 160 °C. Extrudates were assessed for colour, moisture, firmness and fibre morphology. Furthermore, the technofunctional and nutritional properties of the raw materials were determined. Extrudates with BSG produced the darkest colour, whereas PPI and BR formulations exhibited the lightest. A stronger reddish tint was observed at 160 °C, while the colour within the yellow–blue spectrum was largely temperature-independent. Firmness was generally higher at 160 °C, consistent with lower end-product moisture. Side stream addition lowered protein content and weakened fibre formation, with the effect most pronounced for BRs. Overall, formulation was the dominant factor influencing lightness, while temperature modestly increased redness and firmness. Preliminary sensory evaluation supported these trends. Extrudates produced at 140 °C were perceived as having a more fibrous structure. Higher substitution levels resulted in a weaker, more crumbly texture. With respect to the environmental assessment, a 20% replacement of PPI with BRs or BSG reduced overall environmental impacts by up to 19% and climate impacts by up to 16%. With regard to the novel food status, the EU Novel Food Status Catalogue classifies BSG as not novel, whereas BRs are not novel only when used in food supplements. Any other food uses, other than as, or in, food supplements, might considered to be novel and consequently might need to be authorised under the novel food regulation framework prior to market placement. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of forage-free diets with reduced starch levels on the productive performance, metabolism, ruminal fermentation, nutrient digestibility, and meat quality of feedlot beef cattle. Two experiments were conducted. In Experiment 1, forty uncastrated Nellore steers were distributed into 20 pens in a completely randomized design, receiving diets with increasing inclusion levels of ground corn in the total diet: C400 (400 g kg⁻¹), C200 (200 g kg⁻¹), C100 (100 g kg⁻¹), and C50 (50 g kg⁻¹), formulated without forage and based on fibrous co-products. Increasing ground corn inclusion promoted linear improvements in final body weight and average daily gain, while dry matter intake and feed efficiency showed quadratic responses. Meat quality parameters were not affected by dietary treatments. In Experiment 2, eight crossbred steers were assigned to a double 4 × 4 Latin square design and fed the same experimental diets. Higher corn inclusion increased starch and fat intake, whereas dry matter, organic matter, and protein intake showed quadratic responses. Apparent total-tract digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, and starch also followed a quadratic pattern. Ruminal fermentation parameters were affected by dietary treatments, with greater ammoniacal nitrogen concentrations at higher corn levels and quadratic responses for propionate, butyrate, and methane production. Nitrogen metabolism indicated increased urinary nitrogen and uric acid excretion with increasing dietary corn inclusion. These results demonstrate that forage-free diets based on citrus pulp and soybean hulls with different levels of ground corn can be effectively used in finishing beef cattle, improving performance without impairing meat quality while modulating ruminal fermentation and nutrient utilization. Full article

Intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAS) is a distinct, inflammation-dominant vasculopathy and a leading cause of global stroke morbidity. Unlike extracranial atherosclerosis (ECAS), which often utilizes compensatory positive remodeling to maintain patency, ICAS is characterized by a unique architecture and a localized antioxidant gap that favor maladaptive negative remodeling. We critically analyze the molecular cascade initiated by the breakdown of the Piezo-type mechanosensitive ion channel component 1 (PIEZO1) and the Krüppel-like factor 2/4 (KLF2/4) mechanotransduction axis, which triggers endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) uncoupling and establishes a state of chronic inflammation. This environment facilitates the subendothelial lipid retention of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), a process exacerbated by the intracranial deficiency of Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) and impaired glymphatic clearance. Crucially, we evaluate how these metabolic and mechanical insults drive vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotypic switching; the transdifferentiation of contractile VSMCs into macrophage-like foam cells accounts for up to 60% of the plaque’s lipid-laden pool and destabilizes the fibrous cap. This vascular failure directly compromises the neurovascular unit (NVU), leading to pericyte dropout and blood–brain barrier breakdown. Beyond environmental stressors, we highlight the ring finger protein 213 (RNF213) variant as a critical genetic determinant of this susceptibility. Shifting the clinical paradigm from simple luminal narrowing toward the identification of the vulnerable plaque, we discuss how High-Resolution Vessel Wall Imaging (HR-VWI) and microRNA biomarkers can identify unstable lesions. By integrating these molecular and imaging signatures, we propose a precision medicine framework centered on the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and the NVU to effectively mitigate the high residual recurrence risk that persists under conventional therapy. Full article

Biomaterials are engineered to interact with biological systems for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. Among them, natural biomaterials offer important advantages over many synthetic polymers, including intrinsic biocompatibility, non-toxicity and biodegradability. Silk fibroin, a fibrous protein derived mainly from Bombyx mori cocoons, has re-emerged as a particularly versatile platform because it combines favourable mechanical, thermal, electrical and optical properties with aqueous processing and tuneable degradation. In this review, we first summarise the key structural, physicochemical and functional properties of regenerated silk fibroin, including its mechanical behaviour, thermal stability, dielectric and piezoelectric response, optical transparency and low autofluorescence. We then describe how extraction and regeneration protocols are used to produce defined material formats—fibres and nanofibrous mats, porous 3D scaffolds and hydrogels, sub-micron particles, thin films and microstructured devices—and outline major functionalisation strategies, ranging from physical blending and encapsulation to covalent chemistry, genetic engineering of recombinant silk variants, and enzyme-mediated conjugation approaches. Building on this foundation, we critically examine biomedical applications of silk fibroin with a particular emphasis on (i) hybrid silk–fluorophore systems for bioimaging and biosensing (nanodiamonds, quantum dots and organic dyes), (ii) optical fibre, wearable and edible sensors for health and food monitoring, (iii) wound dressings and wound-sensing platforms, and (iv) tissue engineering scaffolds and drug-delivery depots. Finally, we discuss current limitations, including process variability, the trade-offs introduced by blending and cross-linking, and the challenges posed by non-degradable inorganic fillers and clinical translation. Together, these perspectives highlight silk fibroin’s potential and constraints as a multifunctional biomaterial for next-generation biomedical devices and theranostic systems. Full article

The global functional food market continues to expand, and edible mushrooms are emerging as high-value ingredients due to their rich nutritional profile, particularly their high protein content, balanced amino acid composition, and dietary fiber. This growing industrial interest is reflected in the registration of more than 322 patents in the past five years according to the Derwent Innovation patent database. Recent advances include the integration of precision mycology (PM) and omics-based approaches, such as CRISPR-Cas9, into solid-state fermentation and submerged fermentation, enabling improvements in natural umami flavor and bioactive composition. Innovative products, including meat analogues with fibrous textures, functional beverages such as kombucha and juices, and fermented dairy products such as yogurts and cheeses, have been formulated to deliver prebiotic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Future trends indicate a shift towards the production of high-value nutraceutical peptides and biomass, together with the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance bioreactor automation and scalability. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain, including regulatory constraints, the scarcity of clinical validation in humans, and the need for strict control over the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in mushroom-derived raw materials. Addressing these gaps will be critical for advancing regulatory frameworks, improving industrial standardization, and supporting the translational development of mushroom-based functional foods. Full article