Search Results (174)

Folate (vitamin B9) is central to one-carbon metabolism, supporting nucleotide biosynthesis, methylation homeostasis, and epigenetic regulation. The gut microbiome both produces and consumes folate, creating a bidirectional axis influencing host health and disease. We systematically reviewed 159 original studies from MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Embase, and Scopus (inception through January 2026) examining enteric microbiota–folate interactions, with intervention evidence graded using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine 2011 framework. Only a minority of gut bacteria possess complete folate biosynthetic pathways; most depend on cross-feeding from prototrophic taxa including Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Streptococcus. Altered microbial folate metabolism was associated with metabolic, gastrointestinal, oncologic, neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular, immunologic, and reproductive disorders through convergent mechanisms of disrupted methylation, genomic instability, and immune dysregulation. Probiotic interventions achieved the strongest evidence, supported by multiple human controlled and observational trials and animal models. The evidence for prebiotic, dietary, and folate supplementation interventions was moderate due to the predominant animal models and in vitro data. Overall, the predominant associational and observational evidence base is insufficient to establish causal relationships, underscoring the need for adequately powered human randomized controlled trials with folate-specific endpoints, multi-omics integration, and precision approaches matching folate form and dose to individual microbiome and host genetic profiles. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of alternative feed formulations on the proximate composition and lipid quality of gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) in a long-term feeding trial (May 2022–September 2023). Three isoenergetic and isoproteic diets were tested in replicate tanks: a fishmeal-based control (CTRL), a processed animal protein–based diet (PAP), and a diet including insect meal and microalgae oil (ALT). Diet pellet sizes were adapted to the fishes’ developmental stage. Proximate composition and fatty acid profiles were assessed in feed and in fish fillets, with 20 fish analyzed per dietary treatment. The human health lipid indices of the fillets were calculated. Virtual diets were reconstructed to estimate theoretical fatty acid intake across growth, based on feed composition and consumption. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) revealed distinct clustering by diet. Fillets from all diets met European Food Safety Authority criteria for being high in omega-3 fatty acids, with some variation in EPA and DHA concentrations among formulations. The ALT diet showed a 15% higher EPA+DHA content and the greatest fish lipid quality (FLQ) values, even having the lowest polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) intake from feed, partly due to its elevated lauric acid (C12:0) content, which may contribute to rapid energy mobilization and omega-3 preservation. PAP-fed fish showed the most balanced PUFA/SFA and n6/n3 ratios. These findings demonstrate the viability of sustainable feed alternatives for maintaining nutritional quality in gilthead sea bream, supporting aquaculture sustainability without compromising nutritional value. Full article

Background/Objectives: The gut microbiome is a critical regulator of host metabolism, immunity, and the gut–brain axis. Exercise is a promising non-pharmacological modulator of microbial ecology, yet human evidence remains heterogeneous and the translational gap persists. This narrative review synthesizes mechanisms, human and animal evidence, and future directions for the exercise–gut microbiome axis. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SID were searched for articles published between January 2000 and February 2025. Keywords included exercise, physical activity, gut microbiome, gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acids, and gut–muscle axis. From 218 initial records, 89 original studies (47 human, 42 animal) met inclusion criteria and were critically appraised. Results: Exercise modulates the gut microbiome via splanchnic hypoperfusion, hyperthermia, altered transit time, and immune-mediated barrier regulation. Moderate-intensity continuous training consistently increases alpha diversity and enriches butyrate-producing taxa (Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Roseburia hominis) and mucin-degrading Akkermansia muciniphila. High-intensity interval training transiently increases intestinal permeability in untrained individuals but, following adaptation, stimulates butyrate production via lactate cross-feeding metabolism—a recent breakthrough. Effects are transient and reversible upon detraining. Animal models establish causality through fecal microbiota transplantation; human randomized controlled trials demonstrate modest, intensity-dependent, and highly individualistic responses. Emerging evidence supports the gut–muscle axis in sarcopenia and personalized exercise prescription guided by microbiome profiling. Conclusion: Exercise shows promise as a low-cost modulator of the gut microbiome for enriching health-associated taxa and improving metabolic outcomes. Definitive evidence linking exercise-induced microbial shifts to enhanced athletic performance in humans remains lacking. Future research requires diet-controlled randomized controlled trials with ≥12-week interventions, shotgun metagenomics, and mechanistic validation of the gut–muscle axis in humans. Full article

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital anomaly worldwide and is associated with substantial infant morbidity and mortality. This narrative review synthesizes evidence linking CHD to alterations in the gut microbiome across neonatal, perioperative, and chronic stages and highlights a gut–heart–immune framework in which microbial imbalance, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and systemic inflammation may interact to influence clinical outcomes. Early infancy represents a potential window for microbiome and immune development, shaped by delivery mode and feeding, with many breastfed infants developing a Bifidobacterium-dominant community supported by human milk oligosaccharides. In CHD, abnormal splanchnic perfusion and hypoxemia, together with intensive care and perioperative exposures (fasting, delayed enteral feeding, antibiotics, acid suppression), may predispose to dysbiosis and impaired barrier function. Cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass can act as a “second hit,” with evidence of increased gut permeability, endotoxemia, inflammatory activation, and biomarker signals of enterocyte injury and tight-junction disruption. Clinically, these mechanisms align with gut-sensitive outcomes including necrotizing enterocolitis (especially in ductal-dependent lesions), feeding intolerance, and postoperative infection-risk phenotypes. Interventions show mixed evidence: human milk exposure appears protective for NEC risk, synbiotics demonstrated outcome benefits in a randomized trial of cyanotic CHD infants, while probiotics may modify dysbiosis without consistently preventing intestinal injury and require careful safety frameworks. Key research gaps include the need for longitudinal stage-based cohorts, integration of microbiome profiling with barrier injury and perfusion markers, and standardized safety monitoring in intervention trials. Full article

The common vole (Microtus arvalis) is a major rodent pest in European agroecosystems, causing periodic outbreaks that result in substantial crop losses and pose potential public health risks. Rodenticides remain the most widely used method for population control; however, current phosphide-based formulations present challenges related to environmental safety and non-target species exposure. This study evaluated the palatability and efficacy of novel alpha-chloralose bait variations for common voles. Laboratory trials were conducted in three phases: (i) screening of non-toxic cereal carriers to identify highly palatable formulations, (ii) comparison of alpha-chloralose from two manufacturers to select the optimal active ingredient, and (iii) enhancement of palatability and attractiveness through incorporation of several attractants. Choice and no-choice feeding tests revealed that alpha-chloralose efficacy is strongly influenced by bait formulation and pellet size, with small pellets (3 mm) ensuring that a single pellet provides a lethal dose for an individual vole. In laboratory conditions, the highest mortality rate, 50% (n = 12), was observed in the bait containing the milkvetch attractant. Subsequent small-scale field trials demonstrated that this bait achieved efficacy (85%) comparable to commercial zinc phosphide bait (90%). The study confirms that alpha-chloralose, when incorporated into optimized bait matrices, could be a viable rodenticide that combines rapid, humane action with a reduced risk of secondary poisoning, making it a promising tool for integrated pest management strategies. Full article

Ammonia (NH₃) from intensive agriculture is a primary precursor for secondary fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), necessitating mitigation under the EU National Emission Ceilings (NEC) Directive. This study evaluated a novel feed-based intervention assessed under real-scale commercial conditions in weaning and growing pig units. Indoor NH₃ concentrations were monitored at high frequency (2 h resolution), and treatment effects were analyzed using a Circular Block Bootstrap (CBB) approach to account for diurnal cyclicity and temporal autocorrelation. In the weaning unit, where pits were fully emptied before the trial, the mean indoor NH₃ concentration decreased from 7.51 ppm to 1.37 ppm, representing an 81.7% reduction. In the growing unit, which operated under pre-existing slurry and an overflow system, a significant reduction of 20.9% was observed (from 5.45 ppm to 4.31 ppm). These results demonstrate the intervention’s efficacy in preventing NH₃ release from fresh excreta and suggest that its impact in systems managed under slurry overflow can be further optimized by initially activating pre-existing material. This infrastructure-free solution offers a scalable, economically sustainable pathway to align livestock production with zero-pollution targets while supporting multiple Sustainable Development Goals related to human health, worker welfare, and environmental protection. Full article

Background/Objectives: Human immunodeficiency virus remains a significant public health challenge, with breastfeeding contributing to the risk of mother-to-child transmission. Although antiretroviral therapy significantly reduces this risk, obstetric nurses face complex challenges in translating evolving guidelines into clinical practice. This scoping review aims to map existing scientific evidence on obstetric nurses’ approaches to evidence-based practice regarding breastfeeding in the context of HIV. Methods: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus and EBSCOhost (MEDLINE Complete, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Nursing & Allied Health Collection: Comprehensive) for studies published in English and Portuguese between 2015 and 2025. Studies were included if they focused on the role of obstetric nurses, nurse-midwives, or midwives in infant-feeding practices for women living with HIV. Results: Eight studies were included, predominantly from sub-Saharan Africa, with additional evidence from Europe and Canada. Findings reveal that infant-feeding counseling is shaped by a complex interplay of clinical protocols and personal beliefs. Significant gaps in knowledge translation were identified. While nurses demonstrate high technical confidence in lactation support, their distinct professional contribution is often obscured by research that aggregates all healthcare providers. Conclusions: The challenge of supporting breastfeeding in the context of HIV extends beyond technical protocol adherence. It points to persistent gaps in knowledge translation, variability in counselling practices, and the influence of contextual and professional factors on guideline implementation. Strengthening care requires sustained investment in profession-specific education, institutional support, and evidence-informed practice frameworks that enable obstetric nurses to exercise informed clinical judgement. Full article

N-Lactoyl-phenylalanine (Lac-Phe), identified in 2022 as an exercise-inducible signaling metabolite, is formed by carnosine dipeptidase 2 via conjugation of lactate and phenylalanine. Its circulating levels rise sharply after intense exercise in mice, humans, and racehorses, reflecting increased glycolytic flux. Beyond exercise, Lac-Phe also rises with feeding and metformin, positioning it as a potential integrator of energy intake, expenditure, and metabolic homeostasis. Centrally, Lac-Phe may contribute to appetite suppression by inhibiting hypothalamic orexigenic agouti-related protein neurons, primarily observed in obese rodent models, while sparing anorexigenic pro-opiomelanocortin neurons, thereby reducing food intake, promoting weight loss, and improving glucose tolerance in obese models without altering energy expenditure. Peripherally, it drives anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization, ameliorating colitis and aiding recovery after spinal cord injury via NF-κB suppression and reactive oxygen species reduction. As a biomarker, Lac-Phe may offer advantages over lactate in reflecting mitochondrial dysfunction in conditions such as MELAS, sepsis, and NADH-reductive stress; however, these observations derive mainly from small-scale or exploratory studies and require prospective validation. Recent studies from 2024 to 2025 further reveal its partial and context-dependent role in mediating metformin’s effects, intensity- and sex-dependent responses, renal clearance via SLC17A1/3 transporters, and links to exercise-induced redox adaptations. The first human phase I trial (NCT06743009), launched in 2025, is assessing the metabolic effects of Lac-Phe in obesity. This Perspective summarizes Lac-Phe biosynthesis, physiological mechanisms, including its emerging but largely correlative connections to redox homeostasis, and therapeutic promise, underscoring its potential relevance for exercise-mimicking strategies in metabolic, inflammatory, and redox-related disorders. Full article

The escalating demand for sustainable, nutrient-dense feeds underscores the need to valorize the agro-industrial byproducts utilizing innovative bioconversion strategies. In this context, we have studied the feasibility of incorporating tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) cultivation residues into Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae diets to produce high-protein insect meals. These residues are known to contain the naturally occurring toxic steroidal alkaloids tomatidine and α-tomatine, prohibiting their incorporation into human and animal diets. Herein, the tomato cultivation biomass was dried and mill-ground, and its varying volumes were incorporated into standard poultry feed (seven diet levels with 0–100% biomass inclusion) and tested in BSF-larvae-rearing trials to produce insect meals. The optimal results with respect to larvae growth, protein accumulation (highest value = 30.61%), lipid–fiber content, and antioxidant capacity were determined for insect meals obtained from BSF larvae reared with a ration composed of 40% tomato plant biomass. In addition, the toxicity of this insect meal was substantially low, as a consequence of the observed groundbreaking reduction in the contained toxic steroidal alkaloids α-tomatine and its aglycone tomatidine. The results herein reveal the efficacy of the BSF-larvae-rearing process in acting as a biological filter for the bioconversion of the toxic tomato cultivation waste into a functional, safe, and protein-rich livestock feed, supporting the principles of a circular economy. Full article

This study investigates the effects of N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) on intestinal microbial composition and metabolic activity in piglets using two complementary approaches: in vitro fermentation and in vivo dietary supplementation with coated Neu5Ac. In vitro fermentation results demonstrated that Neu5Ac stimulates higher production of formate and acetate by piglet intestinal microbiota compared with other human milk-derived monosaccharides (p < 0.05). In vivo feeding trials showed that dietary coated Neu5Ac significantly increased microbial α-diversity and altered the overall microbial composition in both the jejunum and colon (p < 0.05). For instance, coated Neu5Ac reduced the relative abundances of ASV1 Clostridium and ASV17 Clostridium in the jejunum, while raising the relative abundances of ASV3 Veillonella, ASV4 Veillonella, ASV7 Lactobacillus salivarius, ASV11 Actinobacillus porcitonsillarum in the jejunum, and ASV41 Xylanibacter in the colon (p < 0.05). Furthermore, coated Neu5Ac significantly elevated formate and acetate concentrations in the jejunum (p < 0.05) and exhibited a trend toward increased acetate levels in the colon (0.05 < p < 0.1). Collectively, using piglets as a model, this study demonstrates that Neu5Ac facilitates the intestinal colonization of beneficial microbes (e.g., Lactobacillus), leading to enhanced production of microbial metabolites, particularly formate and acetate, which may contribute to improved gut homeostasis in early life. Full article

Background/Objectives: In food-producing animal (FPA) environments, healthy animals can act as reservoirs of potentially pathogenic Escherichia coli, which can be transmitted through the food chain to humans. This study aimed to evaluate cloacal E. coli in healthy Sicilian lambs subjected to an experimental feeding regimen by assessing bacterial levels, antimicrobial resistance, virulence traits, and the clonal relationships, as well as the impact of a pistachio skin as an agro-industrial by-product supplement during a 58-day feeding trial. Methods: A total of 295 E. coli isolates from the control (CTRL) and treatment (Treated) groups at initial time (T0) and final time (T1) were phenotypically and genotypically characterized using Kirby–Bauer antimicrobial testing, multiplex PCR for virulence genes, and PFGE for clonal analysis. Results: The feeding regimen did not significantly influence the prevalence, abundance, or virulence of the E. coli isolates. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) were the most common pathotype, mainly carrying the stx1 gene, while the Enteroinvasive (EIEC) type was detected only sporadically. Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) predominated at T0, while enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) at T1, and enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), initially prevalent in Treated samples, disappeared by T1. Antimicrobial resistance profiles varied among isolates, with the highest resistance observed in the CTRL group. However, both groups exhibited high resistance to streptomycin, and 9% of CTRL isolates were multidrug resistant. A notable reduction in overall resistance rates, especially in the Treated group, was observed, indicating a dietary effect on the E. coli resistome. PFGE genotyping showed high genetic diversity, with resistance traits more frequently detected than virulence factors. Conclusions: This study highlights that healthy lambs serve as reservoirs for potentially human-pathogenic E. coli and suggests that dietary regimes could effectively reduce antibiotic resistance. Full article

Aflatoxin contamination of maize by Aspergillus section Flavi constitutes a major health and economic concern. While biological control using non-toxigenic strains has proven effective, the increasing global food demand underscores the need for alternative carrier materials to replace seeds and grains. The aims of the present study were (1) to develop an innovative macroporous starch polymer in which the biocontrol agent can grow and be transported to fields where the bioformulate is applied, and (2) to evaluate the effectiveness of this new formulate in reducing AF contamination in maize kernels in field trials, in comparison with the traditional formulate based on long-grain rice as a substrate. Several methods and different starch sources were tested, and the formulation consisting of 10% maize starch, 0.5% citric acid, 3% sucrose, 0.3% urea, and distilled water was the most effective. Furthermore, this bioformulate demonstrated a performance comparable to that of the traditional long-grain rice-based formulation, reducing AF accumulation by up to 81% in maize kernels under field conditions. The implementation of this macroporous starch polymer-based formulation, in combination with the biological control agent A. flavus AFCHG2, would not only reduce aflatoxin contamination in maize kernels but also minimise the use of food-grade seeds and grains for industrial purposes, thereby preserving their availability for human and animal nutrition. Consequently, this development could enhance the availability of these substrates for food and feed use, thereby contributing to improved safety and food security. Full article

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global epidemic in which gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to impaired glucose homeostasis and chronic inflammation. Intermittent fasting (IF) and probiotic supplementation have independently demonstrated glycemic benefits in T2DM, largely through microbiota remodeling. This narrative review synthesizes evidence up to October 2025 to clarify the microbiota-dependent mechanisms of IF and probiotics, and to evaluate the biological plausibility and preliminary clinical data for their combined application in T2DM management. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review of preclinical and clinical studies (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) examining IF regimens (primarily time-restricted feeding and 5:2 protocols) and multi-strain probiotics containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species in T2DM or relevant models. Mechanistic pathways, microbial compositional shifts, and metabolic outcomes were qualitatively synthesized, with emphasis on overlapping signaling (short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, GLP-1, and barrier function). Results: IF consistently increases Akkermansia muciniphila and, variably, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii abundance, restores microbial circadian rhythmicity, and enhances SCFA and secondary bile acid production. Multi-strain probiotics modestly reduce HbA1c (–0.3% to –0.6%) and fasting glucose, outperforming single-strain preparations. Both interventions converge on reduced endotoxaemia and improved intestinal integrity. Preclinical models indicate potential synergy, whereas the only direct human trial to date showed neutral results. Conclusions: IF and probiotics engage overlapping microbiota-mediated pathways, supporting their combined use as an adjunctive strategy in T2DM. Adequately powered randomized trials incorporating deep metagenomics, metabolomics, and hard clinical endpoints are now required to confirm additive or synergistic efficacy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Prolonged fasting—defined as voluntary abstinence from caloric intake for periods exceeding 24 h—is increasingly recognized not only as a metabolic intervention but also as a psycho-behavioral modulator. According to the 2024 international consensus, intermittent fasting encompasses diverse temporal patterns including time-restricted feeding, alternate-day fasting, and periodic fasting of multi-day duration. While metabolic benefits are well documented, the psychoneurobiological and psychiatric consequences remain incompletely characterized. This review critically appraises current evidence on the psychological and psychiatric effects of prolonged and intermittent fasting, including both secular and religious practices. Methods: A narrative synthesis was conducted on clinical trials, observational studies, and translational research published between January 2010 and June 2025 in PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO. Search terms included combinations of “prolonged fasting,” “intermittent fasting,” “psychological,” “psychiatric,” “religious fasting,” “Ramadan,” and “Orthodox Church.” Eligible studies required explicit evaluation of mood, cognition, stress physiology, or psychiatric symptoms. Data were analyzed qualitatively, with particular attention to study quality, fasting regimen characteristics, and participant vulnerability. This is a non-registered narrative synthesis drawing on clinical trials, observational studies, and preclinical evidence published between January 2010 and June 2025. Results: Eighty-seven studies met inclusion criteria (39 human; 48 preclinical). In metabolically healthy adults, short-term time-restricted eating and supervised prolonged fasting were associated with modest reductions in depressive symptoms and perceived stress, with small improvements in executive functioning—typically observed in small samples and with limited follow-up. Religious fasting during Ramadan and the Orthodox Christian fasting periods demonstrated similar neuropsychological effects, including greater perceived spiritual meaning and affective modulation, though cultural context played a moderating role. Potential adverse mental-health impacts included mood destabilization, anxiety exacerbation, and rare psychotic or manic decompensations in vulnerable individuals. Randomized trials reported few adverse events and no signal for severe psychiatric harm, whereas observational studies more often noted symptom exacerbations in at-risk groups. Patients with eating disorder phenotypes exhibited increased cognitive preoccupation with food and a heightened risk of behavioral relapse. Methodological heterogeneity across studies—including variation in fasting protocols, psychological assessments, and follow-up duration—limited cross-study comparability. Conclusions: Evidence indicates a bidirectional relationship wherein fasting may foster psychological resilience in select populations while posing significant psychiatric risks in others. Inclusion of religious fasting traditions enriches understanding of culturally mediated outcomes. To enhance rigor and safety, future studies should incorporate clinician-rated outcomes (e.g., HDRS-17, CGI-S/CGI-I), standardized adverse-event tracking using validated psychiatric terminology, and prospective safety monitoring protocols, with ≥6–12-month follow-up. Full article

Grape pomace is the principal by-product of the winemaking industry, with an estimated global production of 14 million tonnes annually. Traditional livestock systems often incorporate local agroindustrial by-products into ruminant diets, and grape pomace is particularly notable for its high concentrations of bioactive compounds. These grape-derived molecules may exert beneficial effects on animal oxidative balance, biochemical status and productive performance, offering an environmentally and economically sustainable alternative to conventional feed ingredients that may be incorporated into the milk produced. This study evaluated the impact of incorporating varying inclusion levels (0, 5, 10 and 15% DM) of ensiled white grape pomace (WGP) into isoenergetic and isoproteic diets on the nutritional and technological characteristics of goat milk. Eighty-eight Murciano-Granadina dairy goats were selected and allocated into eight homogeneous batches (n = 11 per batch) based on physiological traits. Following a pre-experimental sampling, each diet was randomly assigned to two batches, and the feeding trial lasted eight weeks. After a two-week dietary adaptation period, four biweekly samplings were conducted to obtain representative bulk tank milk samples from each batch. Milk samples were analysed for gross composition, pH, mineral profile, fatty acid composition, coagulation properties, colorimetric parameters and antioxidant capacity. WGP consumption significantly increased milk fat content, improved the lipid profile from a human health perspective, accelerated curd aggregation and elevated the yellowness index. Moreover, notable changes were observed in the antioxidant activity of the milk. Despite these effects, the overall composition of the milk remained largely unchanged, which is a key factor in preserving its technological properties. Nevertheless, the final product demonstrated enhanced biological quality, reinforcing its value as a functional food for human consumption. Full article