Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (58,328)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = human activity

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
28 pages, 4272 KB  
Article
Machine Learning-Based Human Detection Using Active Non-Line-of-Sight Laser Sensing
by Semra Çelebi and İbrahim Türkoğlu
Sensors 2026, 26(7), 2046; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26072046 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Active non-line-of-sight (NLOS) human detection aims to infer the presence of hidden individuals by analyzing indirectly reflected photons between a relay surface and occluded targets. In this study, a single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) and time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC)-based acquisition system were used to [...] Read more.
Active non-line-of-sight (NLOS) human detection aims to infer the presence of hidden individuals by analyzing indirectly reflected photons between a relay surface and occluded targets. In this study, a single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) and time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC)-based acquisition system were used to measure time–photon waveforms in controlled NLOS environments designed to represent post-disaster rubble scenarios. Although the effective temporal resolution of the system is limited by the detector timing jitter and laser pulse width, the recorded transient signals retain distinguishable intensity and temporal delay patterns associated with the primary and secondary reflections. To construct a representative dataset, measurements were collected under varying subject poses, orientations, and surrounding object configurations. The recorded signals were processed using a unified preprocessing pipeline that included normalization, histogram shaping, and signal windowing. Three machine learning models, namely, Convolutional Neural Network, Gated Recurrent Unit, and Random Forest, were trained and evaluated for human presence classification. All models achieved full sensitivity in detecting human presence; however, notable differences emerged in the classification of human-absent scenarios. Among the tested approaches, random forest achieved the highest overall accuracy and specificity, demonstrating stronger robustness to statistical variations in time–photon histograms under limited photon conditions. These results suggest that tree-based classifiers capture amplitude distribution patterns and temporal dispersion characteristics more effectively than deep neural architectures under the present acquisition constraints. Overall, the findings indicate that low-cost SPAD-based NLOS sensing systems can provide reliable human detection in indirect-observation scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI-Based Sensing and Imaging Applications)
19 pages, 3669 KB  
Article
Exercise Boosts the Immune System and Enhances Immunotherapy Responses in Pancreatic Cancer and Mesothelioma
by Brindley Hapuarachi, Sarah Danson, Jonathan Wadsley, Hannah Brown, Phoebe Southam and Munitta Muthana
Biomolecules 2026, 16(4), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16040493 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Exercise modulates the immune system and may enhance anti-cancer activity, offering potential synergy with cancer immunotherapy. Tumours with low immune cell infiltration (“cold” tumours) often respond poorly to immunotherapy and are associated with poor prognosis. Here, we demonstrate that exercise can reshape [...] Read more.
Background: Exercise modulates the immune system and may enhance anti-cancer activity, offering potential synergy with cancer immunotherapy. Tumours with low immune cell infiltration (“cold” tumours) often respond poorly to immunotherapy and are associated with poor prognosis. Here, we demonstrate that exercise can reshape the immune landscape of tumours across the cold spectrum. Methods: C57BL/6 mice underwent orthotopic implantation of PANC02 (murine pancreatic adenocarcinoma) cells and BALB/c mice underwent intraperitoneal injections of AB-1 (murine mesothelioma) cells. Mice were then divided into groups; exercise with anti-Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 (PD-1), exercise with isotype, no exercise with anti-PD-1 and no exercise with isotype. Treadmill-running was performed for 20 min/day, 4 days/week at a speed of 12 metres/minute. Resistance training consisted of hanging upside down on a wire-mesh screen for 1 min 2 days/week. Flow cytometry was used to measure TME immune populations. Tumour and liver samples were harvested, paraffin wax-embedded/sectioned and analysed using SlideViewer 2.9.0™. A total of 22 healthy volunteers underwent a single bout of high-intensity interval cycling. Blood was collected pre- and post-exercise. Flow cytometry was used to measure leucocyte subpopulations. MSTO-211H (mesothelioma) and PANC-1 (pancreatic cancer) cells were cultured with pre- and post-exercise serum, with/without HSV1716, and viability determined using alamarBlue®. PANC-1 apoptosis and migration were assessed using caspase-3/7 and scratch assays, respectively. Results: In an orthotopic pancreatic cancer mouse model, combining exercise with immunotherapy significantly increased tumour necrosis and reduced metastatic potential. In both pancreatic cancer and mesothelioma models, this combination remodelled the tumour microenvironment, enhancing cytotoxic CD8+ T cell infiltration, upregulating Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 (PD-1), and reducing Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Complementary human studies revealed an acute systemic release of Natural Killer cells and a reduction in Tregs following high-intensity interval exercise in healthy volunteers. Moreover, exercise-conditioned serum from these participants exerted anti-cancer effects on pancreatic cancer and mesothelioma cell lines. Conclusions: Altogether, these findings highlight exercise as a promising adjunct to immunotherapy for poorly immunogenic cancers such as pancreatic cancer and mesothelioma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Immunology: Molecular Mechanisms and Health Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 8176 KB  
Article
Climate and Vegetation Dominate Lake Eutrophication in the Inner Mongolia–Xinjiang Plateau (2000–2024)
by Yuzheng Zhang, Feifei Cao, Yuping Rong, Linglong Wen, Wei Su, Jianjun Wu, Yaling Yin, Zhilin Zi, Shasha Liu and Leizhen Liu
Remote Sens. 2026, 18(7), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18070988 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Lakes on the Inner Mongolia–Xinjiang Plateau (IMXP) are increasingly vulnerable to eutrophication under climate change and human pressure, yet long-term monitoring remains limited by sparse field sampling. Here, we reconstruct multi-decadal trophic dynamics across the IMXP using Landsat time series and temporally transferable [...] Read more.
Lakes on the Inner Mongolia–Xinjiang Plateau (IMXP) are increasingly vulnerable to eutrophication under climate change and human pressure, yet long-term monitoring remains limited by sparse field sampling. Here, we reconstruct multi-decadal trophic dynamics across the IMXP using Landsat time series and temporally transferable machine-learning models and further quantify the underlying natural and anthropogenic drivers. We compiled monthly in situ water-quality observations (chlorophyll-a, Chl-a; total phosphorus, TP; total nitrogen, TN; Secchi depth, SD; and permanganate index, CODMn;) and calculated the trophic level index (TLI). After rigorous quality control and monthly aggregation, we compiled a dataset of 1345 matched lake–month samples spanning 2000–2024, and divided it into a training set (n = 1076; ≤2019) and an independent test set (n = 269; 2020–2024) to evaluate temporal transferability. We utilized Google Earth Engine to generate monthly surface reflectance composites from Landsat 7 ETM+, Landsat 8 OLI, and Landsat 9 OLI-2. Four supervised regression algorithms—ridge regression (RR), support vector regression (SVR), random forest (RF), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost)—were trained to estimate TLI. On the independent test period, XGBoost performed best (R2 = 0.780, RMSE = 3.290, MAE = 1.779), followed by RF (R2 = 0.770, RMSE = 3.364), SVR (R2 = 0.700, RMSE = 3.842), and RR (R2 = 0.630, RMSE = 4.267); we then used XGBoost to reconstruct monthly and yearly TLI for 610 perennial grassland lakes from 2000 to 2024. From 2000 to 2024, the annual mean TLI (48–49) across the IMXP exhibited a statistically significant upward trend (slope = 0.0158 TLI yr−1; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.0050–0.0267; p = 0.006). Meanwhile, spatial heterogeneity was distinct (TLI: 41.51–59.70). High values concentrated in endorheic and desert–oasis basins (e.g., Eastern Inner Mongolia Plateau, >51), whereas lower values characterized high-altitude regions (e.g., Yarkant River, <45). Overall, trends ranged from −0.49 to 0.51 yr−1, increasing in 54% of lakes (15.6% significantly) and decreasing in 46% (15.4% significantly). Attribution analyses identified NDVI (33.92%) and temperature (21.67%) as dominant drivers (55.59% combined), followed by precipitation (13.99%) and human proxies (30.42% combined: population 10.66%, grazing 10.31%, built-up 9.45%). Across 53 sub-basins, NDVI was the primary driver in 28, followed by temperature (11), population (7), precipitation (3), grazing (3), and built-up land (1); notably, the top two drivers explained 56.6–87.1% of variations. TWFE estimates revealed bidirectional NDVI effects (significant in 31/53): positive associations in 22 basins were linked to nutrient retention, contrasting with negative effects in nine basins associated with agricultural return flows. Temperature effects were significant in 15 basins and predominantly negative (14/15), except for the Qiangtang Plateau. Overall, eutrophication risk across the IMXP lake region reflects the combined influences of climatic conditions, vegetation conditions, and human activities, with their relative contributions varying among basins. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 12661 KB  
Article
A New Design of MIMO Antenna with Dual-Band/Dual-Polarized Modified PIFAs for Future Handheld Devices
by Haleh Jahanbakhsh Basherlou, Naser Ojaroudi Parchin and Chan Hwang See
Microwave 2026, 2(2), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/microwave2020007 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
This paper introduces a compact sub-6 GHz multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array developed for 5G smartphone applications. The design employs eight planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA) elements arranged to realize dual-band and dual-polarized operation. The antenna achieves impedance bandwidths of 3.3–3.7 GHz (11.4%) and [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a compact sub-6 GHz multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array developed for 5G smartphone applications. The design employs eight planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA) elements arranged to realize dual-band and dual-polarized operation. The antenna achieves impedance bandwidths of 3.3–3.7 GHz (11.4%) and 5.3–5.8 GHz (10%), covering key sub-6 GHz fifth-generation (5G) bands. To enhance diversity performance, the elements are distributed along the edges of the smartphone mainboard, enabling excitation of orthogonal polarization modes while maintaining an overall board size of 75 mm × 150 mm on an FR4 substrate. Even without the use of dedicated decoupling structures, the closely spaced antenna elements exhibit satisfactory isolation levels, varying between −12 dB and −22 dB across the operating bands. The antenna array achieves wide impedance bandwidths of approximately 400 MHz at 3.5 GHz and more than 500 MHz at 5.5 GHz, supporting high data-rate communication. In addition, the proposed system demonstrates very low correlation and active reflection, with envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) values below 0.002 and total active reflection coefficient (TARC) levels better than −20 dB. User interaction effects are also investigated, and the results confirm acceptable SAR levels and stable radiation behavior in the presence of the human body. Owing to its planar, dual-band/dual-polarization capability and compliance with safety requirements, the proposed antenna represents a promising practical solution for contemporary 5G handheld devices and future multi-band mobile platforms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Microwave Devices and Circuit Design)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

23 pages, 27743 KB  
Review
A Framework for Safe Mobile Manipulation in Human-Centered Applications
by Pangcheng David Cen Cheng, Cesare Luigi Blengini, Rosario Francesco Cavelli, Angela Ripi and Marina Indri
Robotics 2026, 15(4), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/robotics15040068 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
In recent years, applications with robots collaborating actively with humans have been increasing. The transition from Industry 4.0 to 5.0 rearranges the focus of fully automated processes to a human-centered system that allows more customization and flexibility. In human-centered systems, the robot is [...] Read more.
In recent years, applications with robots collaborating actively with humans have been increasing. The transition from Industry 4.0 to 5.0 rearranges the focus of fully automated processes to a human-centered system that allows more customization and flexibility. In human-centered systems, the robot is expected to safely assist or provide support to the human operator, avoiding any unintentional harm, while the latter is focused on tasks that require human reasoning, since current decision-making systems still have some limitations. This survey reviews all the main functionalities required to make a robot (collaborative or not) act as an assistant for human operators, analyzing and comparing solutions proposed by the authors (based on previous works) and/or the ones available in the literature. In this way, it is possible to combine those functionalities and build a complete framework enabling safe mobile manipulation while interacting with humans. In particular, a mobile manipulator is used to receive requests from a user, navigate in a human-shared environment, identify the requested object, and grasp and safely deliver such an object to the user. The framework, which is completed by a user interface designed using Android Studio, is developed in ROS1, tested, and validated on a real mobile manipulator in real-world conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human–Robot Collaboration in Industry 5.0)
Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 4553 KB  
Article
Dihydroartemisinin Unravels Dose-Dependent Transcriptomic Networks Orchestrating Ferroptosis and Metabolic Reprogramming in Colorectal Cancer
by Zhaodi Zheng, Xitan Hou, Wenjuan Li and Leilei Zhang
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(4), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48040342 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a bioactive metabolite of Artemisia annua, displays potent antitumor activity in multiple cancers. However, its dose-dependent transcriptional regulatory networks in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to clarify the molecular mechanisms of low- and high-dose DHA [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a bioactive metabolite of Artemisia annua, displays potent antitumor activity in multiple cancers. However, its dose-dependent transcriptional regulatory networks in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to clarify the molecular mechanisms of low- and high-dose DHA in human CRC cells and reveal the dose-dependent crosstalk among related biological processes. Methods: We integrated RNA-seq transcriptomic profiling and functional validation in HCT116 cells treated with 20 μM (low-dose) or 50 μM (high-dose) DHA. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened at FDR ≤ 0.05 and |log2(fold change)| ≥ 1, followed by GO and KEGG enrichment analyses. Results: DHA inhibited cell viability dose-dependently, with an IC50 of 50 μM. We identified 280 and 678 DEGs in low-and high-dose groups, respectively. Low-dose DHA induced apoptosis via GADD45α/β and ATF4/DDIT3-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress and triggered senescence through G2/M phase arrest. High-dose DHA mainly modulated gene expression signatures associated with ferroptosis by regulating iron homeostasis and lipid peroxidation at the transcriptional level. Both doses suppressed glycolysis, lipid, and folate metabolism; high-dose DHA also inhibited MGAT5B-mediated glycosylation. DHA regulated five core signaling pathways dose-dependently, with high-dose DHA further repressing Wnt3a/16 and BMP4/6. Conclusions: This study first identifies ferroptosis-related gene networks as key transcriptional targets. It reveals dose-dependent crosstalk among cell death, senescence, metabolic reprogramming, and signaling, providing a transcriptomic framework and gene targets for optimizing DHA-based colorectal cancer therapy. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

29 pages, 9088 KB  
Article
Fine-Scale Mapping of the Wildland–Urban Interface and Seasonal Wildfire Susceptibility Analysis in the High-Altitude Mountainous Areas of Southwestern China
by Shenghao Li, Mingshan Wu, Jiangxia Ye, Xun Zhao, Sophia Xiaoxia Duan, Mengting Xue, Wenlong Yang, Zhichao Huang, Bingjie Han, Shuai He and Fangrong Zhou
Fire 2026, 9(4), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire9040140 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Wildfires at the wildland–urban interface (WUI) have increased in frequency and severity under global warming and intensified human activities. As a representative high-altitude mountainous region in southwestern China, Yunnan features complex topography, steep climatic gradients, and dispersed settlements interwoven with wildlands, making it [...] Read more.
Wildfires at the wildland–urban interface (WUI) have increased in frequency and severity under global warming and intensified human activities. As a representative high-altitude mountainous region in southwestern China, Yunnan features complex topography, steep climatic gradients, and dispersed settlements interwoven with wildlands, making it a fire-prone area where wildfire management is particularly challenging. However, a fine-scale WUI dataset is currently lacking for this region. To address this gap, we refined WUI classification thresholds using a one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) method and generated the first fine-resolution WUI map of Yunnan. Seasonal wildfire driving factors from 2004 to 2023 were quantified, and machine learning models were applied to produce seasonal susceptibility maps. SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) were employed to interpret the dominant contributing factors. The resulting WUI covers 25,730.67 km2, accounting for 6.5% of Yunnan’s land area. Random forest models effectively captured seasonal wildfire susceptibility patterns, with AUC values exceeding 0.83 across all seasons. High susceptibility zones (>0.5) comprised 30.09% of the WUI in spring, 25.74% in winter, 22.61% in autumn, and 13.74% in summer. SHAP analysis revealed that anthropogenic factors consistently drive wildfire occurrence, while climatic conditions in the preceding season influence vegetation status and subsequently affect wildfire likelihood in the current season. By integrating static “where” mapping with dynamic “when” susceptibility analysis, this study establishes a comprehensive “When–Where” framework that supports both long-term WUI planning and short-term seasonal early warning. The integration of fine scale WUI mapping with seasonal susceptibility modeling enhances wildfire risk management in complex high-altitude regions. These findings provide a scientific basis for location-specific, time-sensitive, and full-chain wildfire management in mountainous landscapes and contribute to cross-border ecological security governance in the Indo-China Peninsula. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

54 pages, 2276 KB  
Review
Targeting NF-κB Signaling with Natural Products: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy for Cardiovascular Diseases
by Rui Liu, Wencong Liu, Ling Dong, Shuang Ma and Baojun Xu
Biomolecules 2026, 16(4), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16040491 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the primary cause of human morbidity and mortality in the world. Inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular remodeling are the key factors that make CVDs worse. The nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway is a major regulator in the progression [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the primary cause of human morbidity and mortality in the world. Inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular remodeling are the key factors that make CVDs worse. The nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway is a major regulator in the progression of CVDs. NF-κB activates wrongly, induces the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β), and enhances reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. These accelerate endothelial dysfunction, myocardial damage, and atherosclerotic plaque development. Natural products are structurally diverse, multi-targeted, and low toxicity. They offer a promising way to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease by modulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. This review summarizes the recent studies about using natural products (including flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, and polysaccharides) to treat CVDs through the NF-κB pathway, with a critical analysis of evidence strength according to CVDs indication (atherosclerosis, myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, pulmonary arterial hypertension, etc.) and study type (in vitro, in vivo animal, and human clinical research). We detail their molecular mechanisms, such as inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65, downregulating IκB phosphorylation, blocking upstream signaling (e.g., TLR4/MyD88, PI3K/Akt, MAPK), and affecting with other pathways (e.g., Nrf2/HO-1, SIRT1) to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress together. We also detail the effects of these natural products in various CVDs models, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, diabetic cardiomyopathy, and pulmonary arterial hypertension, highlighting the characteristics of their treatments. Finally, we discuss the challenges of bringing natural products into the clinic and share some ideas to solve difficulties, with an in-depth critical analysis of the translational bottlenecks (poor bioavailability, unclear structure–activity relationships, incomplete mechanistic elucidation, and lack of large-scale clinical trials) and their underlying causes across different natural product classes. In summary, this review offers new perspectives on developing natural product-based therapies targeting the NF-κB signaling pathway for CVDs. It offers useful references for both preclinical studies and clinical applications. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1008 KB  
Review
Monitoring Chemical Environmental Hazards Through Wildlife Assessment: A Review Within the “One Health” Approach
by Claudia A. Rocha, Luís M. Félix, Dércia Santos, Sandra M. Monteiro and Carlos Venâncio
J. Xenobiot. 2026, 16(2), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox16020057 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Wildlife acts as a sentinel of environmental pollution, providing critical insights into potential risks to human health within the One Health framework. However, knowledge on the occurrence of legacy and emerging contaminants in wildlife, as well as their potential trophic transfer to humans, [...] Read more.
Wildlife acts as a sentinel of environmental pollution, providing critical insights into potential risks to human health within the One Health framework. However, knowledge on the occurrence of legacy and emerging contaminants in wildlife, as well as their potential trophic transfer to humans, remains limited. Thus, monitoring contaminants in terrestrial wildlife, particularly in game species, is especially relevant, as game meat represents an important source of high-quality protein that must be safeguarded. This review summarizes current evidence on chemical contaminant levels in terrestrial wildlife from a “One Health” perspective. Despite the growing relevance of this approach, few studies have explicitly applied this term, and even fewer have focused on game meat, resulting in an incomplete picture of contamination. Although reported contaminants—metals, metalloids, pesticides, microplastics, and mycotoxins—originate from overlapping natural and anthropogenic sources, such as ammunition, agriculture, and industrial activities, a strong dependence on local environmental conditions continues to hamper cross-regional comparisons and the establishment of representative exposure levels. Overall, this review highlights the need for systematic monitoring of contaminants in terrestrial wildlife, with emphasis on emerging pollutants that are currently underrepresented in literature, to improve risk assessment, protect food safety, and better understand the impacts of environmental contamination on animal and human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Toxicology and Animal Health: 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

43 pages, 2453 KB  
Review
Human Transglutaminases: Updated Insights into Activation Mechanisms, Allosteric Regulation and Disease
by Pablo Moya-Garrido, Laura P. Cano-Gómez, Beatriz Ibarra-Molero, Raquel Godoy-Ruiz and Encarnación Medina-Carmona
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(7), 2976; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27072976 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Human transglutaminases (hTGs) are Ca2+-dependent enzymes that catalyze protein crosslinking, deamidation and other post-translational modifications, thus acting as key stabilizers of tissue architecture and modulators of protein function across diverse physiological contexts. This family comprises eight catalytically active members, TG1-7, the [...] Read more.
Human transglutaminases (hTGs) are Ca2+-dependent enzymes that catalyze protein crosslinking, deamidation and other post-translational modifications, thus acting as key stabilizers of tissue architecture and modulators of protein function across diverse physiological contexts. This family comprises eight catalytically active members, TG1-7, the blood coagulation factor FXIII, and the inactive structural protein Band 4.2 of the erythrocyte membrane. Recent structural and biochemical advances have refined our understanding of the molecular principles governing transglutaminase function. Thus, current evidence reveals how domain organization and catalytic architecture integrate calcium binding, nucleotide-dependent regulation in TG2 and proteolytic activation in selected isoforms to control enzymatic activity. In this review, we provide an updated and comprehensive overview of the active hTGs, combining structural, biochemical and functional data to explain how closely related enzymes achieve isoform-specific regulation and distinct biological roles. We further examine how disruption of these mechanisms contributes to human pathology, highlighting representative examples in autoimmunity, inherited disorders and complex diseases. By integrating recent biochemical and structural findings with disease-associated evidence, we aim to offer a coherent framework for understanding how TG regulation underlies their diverse biological functions and clinical relevance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein Dynamics, Binding and Allostery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 918 KB  
Proceeding Paper
Computational Evaluation of Philippine Vitex negundo Phytochemicals as Potential Inhibitors of Rhinovirus 3C Protease: Molecular Docking, Pharmacokinetic Analysis, and ADMET Studies
by Francis Ceniza, Harll Fawwenn Hayes Paderanga, Sheena Alexa Yacapin and Nesteve John Agosto
Eng. Proc. 2026, 124(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2026124090 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Human rhinoviruses (HRVs) are the primary cause of the common cold, a highly contagious upper respiratory tract infection characterized by nasal congestion, sneezing, and sore throat. HRV replication depends on its 3C protease (HRV-3Cpro), a key enzyme that cleaves the viral polyprotein into [...] Read more.
Human rhinoviruses (HRVs) are the primary cause of the common cold, a highly contagious upper respiratory tract infection characterized by nasal congestion, sneezing, and sore throat. HRV replication depends on its 3C protease (HRV-3Cpro), a key enzyme that cleaves the viral polyprotein into functional proteins essential for viral maturation. Currently, no FDA-approved inhibitors specifically target HRV-3Cpro. While rupintrivir, a synthetic inhibitor, advanced to clinical trials, it ultimately failed due to limited efficacy. This study investigated the potential of Vitex negundo (or lagundi)—a medicinal plant traditionally used in the Philippines for treating colds and respiratory ailments—as a source of natural HRV-3Cpro inhibitors through in silico molecular docking and pharmacokinetic (ADMET) evaluation. Fifteen phytochemicals were screened, with five compounds exhibiting strong binding affinities exceeding that of the reference inhibitor rupintrivir (−6.1 kcal/mol): agnuside (−6.9 kcal/mol), luteolin 7-O-glucoside (−6.7 kcal/mol), 2′-p-hydroxybenzoyl mussaenosidic acid (−6.5 kcal/mol), 6′-(p-hydroxybenzoyl) mussaenosidic acid (−6.5 kcal/mol), and luteolin (−6.2 kcal/mol). Among these, luteolin emerged as a particularly promising lead compound, forming stable hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions with HRV-3Cpro. Luteolin also demonstrates a favorable ADMET and safety profile, predicted to be non-mutagenic and non-hepatotoxic. These findings position luteolin as a potential plant-based HRV-3Cpro inhibitor, warranting further in vitro and in vivo studies to validate its antiviral efficacy and pharmacokinetic properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Electronic Conference on Applied Sciences)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1097 KB  
Communication
In Vitro Validation of Size-Dependent Antiviral Activity of Phaeodactylum tricornutum-Derived Peptide Fractions Against SARS-CoV-2
by David Mauricio Cañedo-Figueroa, Blanca Azucena Márquez-Reyna, Alan Orlando Santos-Mena, Daniela Nahomi Calderón-Sandate, Flor Itzel Lira-Hernández, Julio E. Castañeda-Delgado, Ana Cristina García-Herrera, Rosa María del Ángel, Moisés León-Juárez, Marco Antonio Valdez-Flores, Gabriela López-Angulo, Claudia Desireé Norzagaray-Valenzuela, Loranda Calderón-Zamora, Evelin Cervantes-Bobadilla, Juan Fidel Osuna-Ramos and Luis Adrián De Jesús-González
Mar. Drugs 2026, 24(4), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/md24040122 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants highlights the need for novel antiviral agents with favorable safety profiles. Marine microalgae constitute a valuable source of bioactive compounds, including antiviral peptides. Building on previous in silico identification of peptides derived from the marine microalga Phaeodactylum [...] Read more.
The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants highlights the need for novel antiviral agents with favorable safety profiles. Marine microalgae constitute a valuable source of bioactive compounds, including antiviral peptides. Building on previous in silico identification of peptides derived from the marine microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum with predicted activity against SARS-CoV-2, this study evaluated the antiviral capacity of peptide fractions generated by enzymatic hydrolysis and separated by molecular weight (10–30, 5–10, 3–5, and <3 kDa) in human alveolar epithelial A549 cells infected with the SARS-CoV-2. Cytotoxicity analyses, assessed using MTT and resazurin assays, revealed a moderate, concentration-dependent reduction in metabolic activity while maintaining overall cell viability within an acceptable range for antiviral evaluation, with higher-molecular-weight fractions (10–30 and 5–10 kDa) displaying the most stable profiles. Antiviral activity was assessed by flow cytometry following post-infection treatment. Lower-molecular-weight fractions (3–5 and <3 kDa) showed early reductions in infection at low concentrations but exhibited variable responses. In contrast, the 10–30 and 5–10 kDa fractions showed more robust, dose-dependent inhibition at medium and high concentrations, reducing infection levels to levels close to those observed in uninfected controls. Comparative analysis with the reference antiviral drug lopinavir demonstrated that peptide fractions exhibit lower cytotoxicity while retaining antiviral activity under equivalent experimental conditions. Overall, these results indicate that antiviral efficacy is strongly influenced by peptide molecular weight and consistency of response. This work provides experimental in vitro validation of P. tricornutum–derived peptide fractions as marine antiviral candidates and supports the integration of in silico and functional approaches for marine drug discovery. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

24 pages, 636 KB  
Review
Impact of Quercetin on Bone-Related Diseases
by Paweł Polak, Magdalena Dragan, Antoni Wojciech Oniszczuk, Emilia Skurko, Kamila Kasprzak-Drozd, Przemysław Niziński, Anna Oniszczuk and Karolina Wojtunik-Kulesza
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(7), 3151; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16073151 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Quercetin (QE) is a widely distributed dietary flavonol with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that has attracted interest as a modulator of bone remodeling and osteoporosis-related bone loss. In vitro data on osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and mesenchymal stem cells indicate that QE attenuates oxidative stress, [...] Read more.
Quercetin (QE) is a widely distributed dietary flavonol with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that has attracted interest as a modulator of bone remodeling and osteoporosis-related bone loss. In vitro data on osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and mesenchymal stem cells indicate that QE attenuates oxidative stress, suppresses pro-inflammatory signaling, and promotes osteogenic differentiation through modulation of pathways such as Nrf2/ARE, NF-κB, Wnt/β-catenin, and ER stress-related cascades. In vivo findings from animal models of estrogen deficiency, diabetes, and glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis demonstrate that QE improves bone mineral density, trabecular microarchitecture, and biomechanical strength while reducing osteoclast number and activity, thereby attenuating osteoporotic bone deterioration. Collectively, preclinical evidence positions QE as a pleiotropic agent promoting osteoblastogenesis, inhibiting osteoclastogenesis, and balancing redox/inflammatory homeostasis in bone, despite bioavailability challenges. Future research should prioritize clinical trials with optimized formulations (e.g., nanoparticles) to validate efficacy, safety, and fracture outcomes in humans. The present review critically evaluates the chemical characteristics, pharmacokinetics, safety profile, and bone-targeted biological activity of QE, emphasizing effects on bone cells and skeletal metabolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Natural Products and Functional Foods)
Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 2880 KB  
Review
p53 Isoforms as Modifiers of the p53-Dependent Responses: A Hidden Code?
by Laura Bartolomei, Beatrice Pretto, Samuele Brugnara, Alessandra Sontacchi, Vanessa Dassi, Aya Bousrih, Chiara Damaggio, Francesca Flangini, Alessandra Bisio and Yari Ciribilli
Cancers 2026, 18(7), 1057; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18071057 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
The tumor suppressor protein p53, encoded by the TP53 gene, is known as the “Guardian of the Genome”, and alterations in TP53 are common to more than 50% of human cancers. p53 is a critical regulator of cellular responses to several stress conditions, [...] Read more.
The tumor suppressor protein p53, encoded by the TP53 gene, is known as the “Guardian of the Genome”, and alterations in TP53 are common to more than 50% of human cancers. p53 is a critical regulator of cellular responses to several stress conditions, such as DNA damage, oncogene activation, and nutrient starvation. p53 was traditionally described as a single transcription factor; however, now it is recognized as a complex family of isoforms generated through alternative promoter usage, alternative splicing, and alternative initiation of translation. These processes give rise to at least 12 distinct p53 isoforms in humans, including p53α (the canonical full-length isoform), p53β, p53γ, Δ40p53, Δ133p53, and Δ160p53, each with unique structural and functional properties. p53 isoforms differ in the presence or absence of specific and fundamental domains located both at N- and C-terminal ends, determining an altered DNA-binding potential, transcriptional activity, and protein–protein interactions. For instance, Δ133p53 isoforms lack part of the N-terminal domains and can exert dominant-negative effects over full-length p53α or modulate alternative transcriptional programs. Similarly, p53β and p53γ isoforms, which have a unique C-termini, influence cellular senescence. The expression patterns of p53 isoforms are tissue-specific and dynamically regulated under both physiological as well as pathological conditions. Alterations of isoform balance have been involved in tumor progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance. Importantly, specific isoforms can either enhance or limit canonical p53 tumor suppressor functions, thereby contributing to the functional diversity of the p53 network. Overall, the p53 isoform landscape adds a critical layer of complexity to p53 biology. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the production of p53 isoforms, their functions, and their expression in cancer, with the idea that a better understanding of the differential regulation and functional interplay of p53 isoforms may provide novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 969 KB  
Article
The Impact of Taxonomic Disclosures on the Quality of ESG Reporting—In the Light of Stakeholder Opinions
by Aleksandra Szewieczek and Małgorzata Grząba-Włoszek
Sustainability 2026, 18(7), 3196; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18073196 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: ESG activities are increasingly regarded as a critical prerequisite for the long-term survival of humanity. Global and regional efforts have been undertaken to develop and control ESG activities; however, national differences (institutional and social schemes, level of economic development) are still considered [...] Read more.
Background: ESG activities are increasingly regarded as a critical prerequisite for the long-term survival of humanity. Global and regional efforts have been undertaken to develop and control ESG activities; however, national differences (institutional and social schemes, level of economic development) are still considered to account for most of the variance in ESG performance. On this basis, a research gap was identified and verified to determine whether legal regulations have an impact on the quality of ESG reporting in Poland. The study was further extended by investigating whether taxonomic disclosures affect the quality of ESG reporting. Methods: The CATI and CAVI methods were applied, resulting in the collection of 325 valid responses. In the first stage of the research, the diversity of respondents’ answers was analyzed, according to their sector of activity, using a one-factor analysis of ANOVA variance with Welch and Brown–Forsythe corrections. In the second stage, the Games–Howell Test was employed to determine which sectoral responses differed significantly. The third stage was focused on diagnosing the impact of the sector of activity on respondents’ answers by calculating the eta-squared ratio. Results: The existence of a positive impact of ESG regulatory development on the quality of reporting disclosures was confirmed; nevertheless, this impact was assessed as moderate or weak. When more detailed taxonomic disclosures were considered, no significant influence on the quality of ESG disclosures was identified. An analysis of responses across sectors led to the conclusion that the sectoral perspective does not exert a meaningful influence on stakeholders’ opinions. Conclusions: The presented results are useful at the regulatory level, both internationally and nationally, as they partly legitimize the simplifications and exemptions currently being introduced in ESG reporting. At the same time, while highlighting the potential of the regulations under review, they point to the need for additional efforts to strengthen their impact by enhancing communication and, based on informing and promoting new solutions, emphasizing their potential positive effects and benefits, as well as considering the scope of reporting through selective application. The findings presented are also useful for educational purposes and to other researchers for comparative purposes, providing a basis for research into other determinants of ESG reporting quality. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop