Saved Queries

by Joseane C. Bassani, Sthéfani da Cunha, Deborah Catharine de Assis Leite, Creciana M. Endres, Crivian Pelisser, Karine L. Meneghetti, Gabriel Bombo, Alcina M. M. B. Morais, Rui M. S. C. Morais, Geciane T. Backes and Juliana Steffens

Microorganisms 2025, 13(11), 2606; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13112606 (registering DOI) - 16 Nov 2025

Abstract

The search for sustainable and health-promoting food ingredients has positioned microalgae as promising candidates for the development of functional products. Haematococcus pluvialis, a unicellular green microalga, is the richest natural source of astaxanthin, a carotenoid with outstanding antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. In addition to astaxanthin, H. pluvialis provides high-value proteins, essential fatty acids, polysaccharides, and vitamins, which expand its potential applications in the food sector. This review compiles current knowledge on the biology and physiology of H. pluvialis, with emphasis on cultivation strategies, environmental stress factors, and biotechnological tools designed to enhance bioactive compound production. Advances in extraction and purification methods are also discussed, contrasting conventional solvent-based approaches with emerging green technologies. The integration of these strategies with biomass valorization highlights opportunities for improving economic feasibility and sustainability. Applications of H. pluvialis in the food industry include its use as a functional ingredient, natural colorant, antioxidant, and stabilizer in bakery products, beverages, meat analogs, and emulsified systems. Evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies reinforces its safety and effectiveness. Looking ahead, industrial perspectives point to the adoption of omics-based tools, metabolic engineering, and circular economy approaches as drivers to overcome current barriers of cost, stability, and regulation, opening new avenues for large-scale applications in food systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Food Microbial Biotechnology)

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14 pages, 401 KB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Well-Being in the Classroom: A Study on Italian Primary School Teachers Using the JD-R Model

by Maria Francesca Trocino, Giovanni Schettino and Vincenza Capone

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(11), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15110234 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Teaching has always been recognized as one of the professions with the highest risk of burnout, thus highlighting the need to take into account how organizations could promote a “healthier” work life. Accordingly, literature has gone beyond the conceptualization of well-being as merely the “absence of illness” to concluding that it must be regarded as a state of complete health. The current study adopts this theoretical approach to address the limited literature on factors affecting the well-being of Italian primary school teachers. Specifically, responses to a self-report questionnaire completed by 142 Italian primary school teachers showed that work self-efficacy was positively associated with job satisfaction, which in turn was positively related to well-being. Consequently, job satisfaction fully mediated the relationship between self-efficacy and well-being. Furthermore, both work overload and work autonomy were found to be negatively associated with teacher well-being. These findings can inform the design of targeted interventions aimed at enhancing the performance and psychological health of primary school teachers by managing demands and fostering effective resources. Full article

13 pages, 701 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cigarette Smoking and Survival of Patients with Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

by Chiara Andreon, Aurora Gaeta, Maddalena Carretti, Alice Graziani, Giulio Tosti, Chiara Doccioli, Maristella Saponara, Giuseppe Gorini, Mariano Suppa, Elisa Di Maggio, Sara Gandini and Saverio Caini

Cancers 2025, 17(22), 3670; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17223670 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background: Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most frequent cancer in fair-skinned populations and represents a growing public health concern due to its impact in terms of morbidity and treatment costs. While some meta-analyses have investigated cigarette smoking as a risk factor for NMSC, less is known about its prognostic implications in patients with NMSC. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to fill this gap by assessing the association between smoking habits and survival in patients with NMSC. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and EMBASE up to 25 February 2025, to identify prospective studies of patients with histologically confirmed NMSC that evaluated the association between smoking habits and survival. Study-specific hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using random effects meta-analysis models. Results: A total of five studies published between 2015 and 2022 were included. The meta-analysis revealed that being a current or ever smoker at diagnosis was associated with a worse overall survival (summary HR 2.42, 95% CI 1.91–3.06). A similar result was observed when smoking exposure was assessed in terms of pack-years or number of cigarettes per day (summary HR 2.44, 95% CI 2.02–2.93). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that cigarette smoking is a negative prognostic factor in these patients, despite the generally excellent prognosis of NMSC. It is reasonable to assume that this unfavourable effect is largely due to the increased risk of developing other life-threatening conditions, in which smoking plays a causal role. These results underscore the clinical relevance of systematically integrating smoking cessation counselling into the routine management of patients with NMSC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Skin Cancer Prevention: Strategies, Challenges and Future Directions)

22 pages, 1117 KB

Open AccessReview

Lessons Learned from Air Quality Assessments in Communities Living near Municipal Solid Waste Landfills

by Custodio Muianga, John Wilhelmi, Jennifer Przybyla, Melissa Smith and Gregory M. Zarus

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(11), 1732; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22111732 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Over 292 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) are generated annually in the United States, with more than half disposed of in landfills. Municipal solid waste landfills (MSWLFs) are stationary sources of air pollution and potential health risks for nearby communities. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has completed over 300 public health assessments (PHAs) and related investigations at MSWLFs and open dumps since the 1980s. This paper reviews the ATSDR’s evaluations of air pathway concerns at 125 MSWLF sites assessed between 1988 and early 2025, with many being evaluated during the 1990s. Most sites were located in the Midwest and Northeast, and only 25% remained active. The ATSDR found no air-related public health hazard at 86% of sites. At sites where hazards were identified, common issues included elevated outdoor or indoor toxicants (e.g., hydrogen sulfide, benzene, trichloroethylene, and mercury) and unsafe methane accumulations. Contributing factors included older site designs, inadequate gas-collection, subsurface fires, and distance from nearby residences. Corrective actions effectively reduced exposures at the affected sites. Results suggest that well-located and maintained landfills minimize public health hazards, while aging or poorly managed sites pose risks. Continued monitoring and research are warranted as waste management shifts toward reducing, reusing, recycling, composting, and energy-recovery technologies to improve efficiency, advance technologies, and address systemic public health challenges. Full article

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19 pages, 709 KB

Open AccessArticle

Modern Contraceptive Use Among Young Women in Kampala Slums: Research Findings from the TOPOWA Study

by Monica H. Swahn, Josephine Namuyiga, Gideon Matovu, Charles Natuhamya, Jane Palmier, Anna Nabulya and Harriet Kebirungi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(11), 1730; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22111730 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Unintended pregnancies among adolescent and young women in low- and middle-income countries pose major public health challenges, underscoring the need for improved access to modern contraceptives. This study examined prevalence, preferences, and correlates of modern contraceptive use among young women living in urban slums of Kampala, Uganda, to inform targeted interventions. We analyzed baseline data from The Onward Project On Wellbeing and Adversity (TOPOWA), an NIH-funded, multi-component prospective cohort study on mental health among women aged 18–24 years. In 2023, 300 participants were recruited from three sites (Banda, Bwaise, Makindye). Interviewer-administered surveys assessed contraceptive choices, lifestyle, and demographic factors. Modified Poisson regression was used to examine correlates of contraceptive use. Among participants, 66.0% had ever used contraception, 40.0% were current users, and 38.0% reported modern contraceptive use. Multivariable analyses showed that having a consistent partner (PR = 3.28; 95% CI: 1.90–5.67), engaging in sex work (PR = 2.10; 95% CI: 1.46–3.02), older age (PR = 1.08; 95% CI: 1.01–1.16), and having children (PR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.12–2.66) were associated with higher modern contraceptive use. Findings highlight important gaps in sustained contraceptive use and the need for tailored interventions addressing economic, social, and educational barriers to improve reproductive health in this low-resource setting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Promoting Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health)

17 pages, 313 KB

Open AccessReview

The Role of a Sustainable Planetary Health Diet in the Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases and Cause-Specific Mortality: A Narrative Review

by Dorota Różańska and Bożena Regulska-Ilow

Foods 2025, 14(22), 3909; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14223909 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Taking into account both the health and environmental aspects of food, the EAT-Lancet Commission proposed a healthy reference diet (Planetary Health Diet—PHD). The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the results obtained in epidemiological studies on the association between the PHD and risk factors, non-communicable diseases, and cause-specific mortality. The literature search was conducted in February 2025 and was based on the PubMed electronic database. The results of this review are divided into four parts, which include the results of cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, case–control studies, and meta-analyses. This review, showing what types of studies have been conducted so far, allows for a summary of the current knowledge of the relationship between the PHD and risk factors, non-communicable diseases, and cause-specific mortality. Cohort studies provided most of the results, which confirmed that higher adherence to the PHD has a beneficial effect on human health, especially taking into account the lower risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CVD mortality, cancer and cancer mortality, as well as all-cause mortality. However, it is concluded that the association between the PHD and stroke, different types of stroke, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and some specific types of cancer must be confirmed. Specifically, randomized controlled trials should be conducted, as, to our knowledge, there is a lack of these types of studies to date. Such studies should be conducted in different regions using the Planetary Health Diet adapted to the local, cultural, geographical, and demographical aspects of a particular region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)

14 pages, 623 KB

Open AccessReview

Artificial Light at Night, Sleep Disruption, and Liver Health: Implications for MASLD Pathogenesis

by Damaris Guadalupe Nieva-Ramírez, Misael Uribe and Natalia Nuño-Lámbarri

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(11), 1729; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22111729 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

This narrative review explores the role of artificial light at night (ALAN) as an emerging environmental determinant of liver and metabolic health, with particular emphasis on its contribution to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The objective was to synthesize and critically evaluate experimental and epidemiological evidence linking nocturnal light exposure, circadian disruption, and hepatic metabolic alterations. Literature was retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases covering the period 1980–2025 using predefined search terms related to ALAN, circadian rhythm disturbance, melatonin suppression, sleep disruption, and MASLD. Relevant experimental studies in animal models and observational studies in humans were included. Evidence indicates that blue-enriched light (~460–480 nm) suppresses melatonin, desynchronizes central and hepatic circadian clocks, and disrupts glucose–lipid metabolism, leading to insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and hepatic steatosis. Chronic ALAN exposure also alters gut microbiota composition and increases intestinal permeability, suggesting a light–gut–liver axis in MASLD pathogenesis. Human epidemiological studies associate higher environmental ALAN exposure with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and poor sleep quality—recognized risk factors for MASLD. Recognizing ALAN as a modifiable environmental exposure highlights the need for public health strategies and clinical guidelines to mitigate its metabolic impact through improved lighting design and sleep hygiene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Link—Better Sleep Equals Better Health)

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12 pages, 295 KB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Stressors, Anemia, and Depressive Symptoms in Pregnancy: Unpacking the Combined Risks

by Ruth A. Pobee, Rebecca K. Campbell, Prathiba Balakumar, Yongchao Huang, Beatriz Peñalver Bernabé and Mary Dawn Koenig

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(11), 1727; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22111727 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Chronic exposure to structural violence and environmental hazards may disrupt stress regulation, trigger inflammation, and impair iron metabolism in women. Iron deficiency has been associated with depression, but the combined impact of environmental stressors and anemia on maternal mental health remains understudied. We analyzed associations between 28 neighborhood-level environmental stressors, hemoglobin levels, and depressive symptoms (measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9) during early pregnancy, using retrospective data from 1964 pregnant patients (2015–2019) at an urban health center in Chicago. Demographic and residential data were linked to environmental indicators from the Chicago Health Atlas. Factor analysis reduced the environmental variables, and multivariable regression models examined associations with PHQ-9 scores at first pregnancy encounter. Participants were predominantly non-Hispanic Black (56%) and Hispanic (27%), with 13% anemic and 16% screening positive for depressive symptoms. Poverty, non-Hispanic Black race, single status, public or no insurance, and unemployment were associated with higher depressive symptoms. Among anemic individuals, neighborhood crime was significantly associated with depressive symptoms, while hemoglobin levels and gestational age were not. These findings highlight how environmental and social inequities contribute to maternal mental health disparities and support the need for integrated, equity-focused prenatal care interventions. Full article

10 pages, 599 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Use of Sternum and Sacrum Angles in the Assessment of Sitting Posture in Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Comparison of Cohorts Assessed Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Sun-Young Ha, Arkadiusz Żurawski and Wojciech Kiebzak

Children 2025, 12(11), 1547; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12111547 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with increased sedentary behavior in children, raising concerns about posture and spinal health. This study compared standardized measures of sitting spinal alignment in two independent cohorts assessed before (2017) and after (2024) the pandemic and examined correlations among alignment parameters across different sitting postures. Methods: This cross-sectional study included healthy children aged 9–13 years. The sternal angle, sacral angle, lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, trunk tilt, and lateral deviation were measured using a Saunders digital inclinometer and a DIERS Formetric 4D rasterstereographic system in passive, forced, and corrected sitting postures. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed between the 2017 and 2024 cohorts (p > 0.05). Within each cohort, significant posture-related differences were found for the sternal and sacral angles, lumbar lordosis, and lateral deviation (p < 0.05), while thoracic kyphosis and trunk inclination differed between passive and corrected sitting (p < 0.05). The sternal angle correlated moderately to strongly with thoracic kyphosis (r = 0.657–0.695, p < 0.001), and the sacral angle correlated with lumbar lordosis (r = 0.679–0.743, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Similar alignment parameters across time-separated cohorts suggest no major cohort-level shifts in standardized sitting posture; however, behavioral factors were not directly assessed. Strong correlations among sagittal angles emphasize the consistent geometric relationship between the sternum, sacrum, and spinal curvatures. A sternal angle of approximately 65° was consistently associated with physiologically favorable spinal alignment and may serve as a practical reference value for posture assessment and education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Orthopedics & Sports Medicine)

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14 pages, 502 KB

Open AccessArticle

“It Can Hurt Your Heart”: A Co-Designed Cross-Sectional Survey Exploring Pacific People’s Understanding of Rheumatic Fever in Auckland, New Zealand

by Siobhan Tu’akoi, Malakai ‘Ofanoa, Samuela ‘Ofanoa, Melenaite Tohi, Maryann Heather, Hinamaha Lutui, Rose Lamont, Elizabeth Fanueli and Felicity Goodyear-Smith

Healthcare 2025, 13(22), 2924; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13222924 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Rheumatic fever is preventable and can be treated successfully; however, a lack of understanding of the disease and barriers to timely healthcare can impact outcomes. Pacific people in Aotearoa New Zealand experience inequitable burdens, and a Pacific community group and health professional network are working together to co-design education initiatives. This descriptive, mixed-methods study aimed to (1) explore Pacific people’s awareness and understanding of rheumatic fever, (2) describe where Pacific people access health information. Methods: An online survey co-developed with Pacific community members was run from December 2024 to February 2025. Questions related to sore throats, rheumatic fever, medication adherence, long-term outcomes and where Pacific people access health information. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively using SPSS version 28 and open-ended qualitative responses were analyzed using an inductive content analysis approach. Results: A total of 400 Pacific respondents were included: 34% were aged 16–24 years and 66% were female. Based on the analysis, 71% of Pacific participants knew that a sore throat should always be checked by a health professional and 65.3% had heard of rheumatic fever. Fever and sore throats were commonly identified as symptoms of rheumatic fever, with joint pain, body aches and chest pain mentioned less. Barriers to health services such as cost, long waiting times and cultural factors were discussed as reasons why many Pacific people often utilize social media and online forums for health information. Conclusions: This study highlights gaps in rheumatic fever knowledge and thus opportunities for health education initiatives for Pacific communities, potentially utilizing social media and online platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Community-Based Strategies to Tackle Health Disparities and Promote Equity)

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16 pages, 274 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of an Active Offer of Influenza Vaccination to Hospitalized Frail Patients

by Alessandra Fallucca, Davide Anzà, Claudio Costantino, Cristina Genovese, Giovanni Genovese, Caterina Elisabetta Rizzo, Tania Vitello, Luigi Zagra and Vincenzo Restivo

Vaccines 2025, 13(11), 1165; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13111165 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the influenza season returned to its typical pre-pandemic circulation patterns. The category of people most vulnerable to severe influenza was older adults, and frail individuals, confirming their central role as a priority group for vaccination. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of an active influenza vaccination program in an area with low influenza vaccination rates and propensity to vaccine co-administration. Methods: People recruited were hospitalized frail individuals, patients over the age of 60, and those with chronic illnesses or comorbidities. It was administered a questionnaire to investigate adherence to influenza vaccination and the Health Action Process Approach was used to evaluate the propensity to co-administration. Results: A total of 418 hospitalized patients were enrolled in the study, of whom 58.4% (n = 244) received the influenza vaccine and 17.9% (n = 75) had a higher propensity to have co-administration of influenza and other recommended vaccines. The factors associated with influenza vaccination acceptance were received advice from hospital healthcare workers (aOR = 10.6 p < 0.001) and previous influenza vaccination (aOR = 18.1; p < 0.001). Propensity to vaccine co-administration was associated with a higher educational level (aOR = 4.21; p = 0.002), receiving vaccination advice from hospital healthcare workers (aOR = 2.80; p = 0.03), perceived positive outcome (aOR = 1.29; p = 0.02) and perceived self-efficacy (aOR = 1.48; p < 0.001). Conslusions: This study explored the impact on influenza vaccination coverage in implementing in hospital vaccination offer. The reliability of this strategy, together with the standard vaccination offer, could allow reaching the recommended vaccination coverage, particularly among at-risk people. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting and Strategies Enhancing the Willingness to Receive and Uptake of Seasonal Influenza Vaccination)

14 pages, 2012 KB

Open AccessArticle

Inter-Regional Comparisons of Gut Microbiota of Endangered Ring-Tailed Lemurs in Captivity: Insights into Environmental Adaptation and Implications for Ex Situ Conservation

by Menglin Sun, Hongyu Yao, Nan Wu, Hong Wu and Dapeng Zhao

J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2025, 6(4), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg6040057 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of primates. This study applied 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology, aiming to investigate the differences in gut microbiota composition and function between captive ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) in different zoos across the north–south demarcation line in China. Results revealed significant differences in gut microbiota composition between northern and southern groups. Alpha diversity indices were higher in the southern group (p < 0.05), while beta diversity analysis showed distinct clustering based on geographic location (p < 0.001). Bacteroidetes were more abundant in the northern group (49.22% vs. 28.44%), while Firmicutes predominated in the southern group (59.10% vs. 32.78%). Functional prediction analysis indicated higher levels of membrane transport and lipid metabolism pathways in the southern group, suggesting differences in nutrient absorption and energy metabolism. These findings suggest that geographic location and associated environmental factors significantly influence the gut microbiota of captive ring-tailed lemurs, even under similar dietary and husbandry conditions. Our study provides insights into the impact of geographic location on gut microbiota in captive primates, highlighting the importance of considering regional factors in zoo animal management and informing future strategies for optimizing the care and conservation of captive primates across different geographic regions. Full article

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20 pages, 851 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Psychometric Validation of the Health Professionals’ Job Satisfaction Scale

by Ana Lúcia João, Paula Chaves, Ana Prata Massano, Fátima Diogo, Rita Paulos, António Portelada and João Alves

Healthcare 2025, 13(22), 2917; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13222917 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background/Objective: Job satisfaction is a key determinant of healthcare professionals’ well-being, quality of care, and organisational performance. In Portugal, although validated tools exist for nurses, there is no comprehensive instrument for different professional groups. This study aimed to develop and validate the Health Professionals’ Job Satisfaction Scale (ESPST—Escala de Satisfação dos Profissionais de Saúde no Trabalho), designed to assess job satisfaction across diverse healthcare categories. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 549 professionals from a Portuguese hospital. The ESPST was developed from literature review and expert focus groups, comprising 50 Likert-scale items. Construct validity was examined using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and reliability was assessed via Cronbach’s alpha. Results: The EFA revealed an eight-factor structure, explaining 70.3% of total variance. The KMO value was 0.963, and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant (p < 0.001). The factors were: leadership and management, nature of work, colleagues, recognition by service users, career progression, human resources, institutional protocols, and peer recognition. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.973 for the total scale, with subscales above 0.84, indicating excellent reliability. Conclusions: The ESPST is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing job satisfaction among healthcare professionals across different categories. Its multidimensional scope allows clinical and research applications, supporting organisational strategies to improve professional well-being and quality of care. Future studies should include confirmatory analyses to strengthen its psychometric robustness. Full article

15 pages, 1879 KB

Open AccessArticle

Forchlorfenuron as a Safe Growth Regulator Significantly Improves Yield and Quality of Glycyrrhiza uralensis

by Junjun Gu, Haotian Li, Shaoxuan Yao and Miao Ma

Sustainability 2025, 17(22), 10213; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172210213 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

The yield and quality have long been constraining factors for the sustainable cultivation of Glycyrrhiza uralensis. This study evaluated the effects of foliar applications of forchlorfenuron (CPPU) at different concentrations (0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg·L⁻¹) on plant growth and secondary metabolism through comprehensive analyses of photosynthesis, endogenous phytohormones, root biomass, and medicinal components. To ensure consumer safety, CPPU residue dynamics and associated health risks were also assessed. The 10 mg·L⁻¹ treatment yielded the most pronounced improvements, increasing root biomass by 46%, glycyrrhizic acid content by 92%, and liquiritin content by 98.7%. It also enhanced the activity of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase, thereby improving overall photosynthetic gas exchange capacity, and significantly stimulated the synthesis of zeatin, abscisic acid, and salicylic acid. Residue analysis showed that by the 56th day after treatment, the CPPU level in roots was merely 5.44 × 10⁻⁴ mg·kg⁻¹, with a half-life of 11.74 days. The resulting risk quotient (RQ) was below 0.01%, well under the safety threshold of 1, indicating negligible health risk to consumers. Our results demonstrate that the targeted application of CPPU offers a highly effective and safe strategy for enhancing both the productivity and commercial quality of G. uralensis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Technology and Engineering for Sustainable Agriculture)

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14 pages, 933 KB

Open AccessArticle

Serum PTH ≥ 40 pg/mL as a Marker of Bone Fragility and Vitamin D Deficiency in Periodontitis Patients: Biochemical, Densitometric and Genetic Evidence

by Marroncini Giada, Martinelli Serena, Francesco Petrelli, Bombardiere Francesco, Sarnataro Antonio and Martelli Francesco Saverio

Biomolecules 2025, 15(11), 1600; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15111600 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

(1) Background: this study aimed to determine whether a serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) threshold of 40 pg/mL represents a clinically relevant risk factor for vitamin D (VitD) deficiency and reduced bone mineral density (BMD). It also investigated potential genetic interactions influencing PTH regulation and skeletal health in patients with periodontitis. (2) Methods: a cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 1038 periodontitis patients (35–75 years). Serum PTH, VitD, calcium (Ca), phosphate (P), and urinary parameters were assessed. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to evaluate BMD in 261 subjects. Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) and estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) polymorphisms were genotyped, and composite genetic risk scores were calculated. Statistical analyses included correlation tests, subgroup comparisons, and regression models. (3) Results: sixty-two percent of individuals had PTH > 40 pg/mL, which was associated with significantly lower 25(OH)D and Ca levels and reduced T-scores (p < 0.05). PTH levels negatively correlated with BMD (Pearson’s r = –0.159, p = 0.0105). Patients with higher ERα polymorphism scores showed increased PTH values (p < 0.05), while VDR variants demonstrated a positive but no significant trend. (4) Conclusions: a PTH threshold of 40 pg/mL identifies individuals at higher risk of VitD deficiency and skeletal fragility, even without overt hypercalcemia. Genetic factors, particularly ERα variants, may contribute to elevated PTH levels, suggesting value in integrating biochemical, densitometric, and genetic screening for early bone health risk stratification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomolecules and Materials Based Approaches in Biomedical Field: 2nd Edition)

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