Search Results (985)

Nafion has long been recognized as the gold standard for proton exchange membranes, due to its exceptional ion exchange capacity and its advanced performance in chemically aggressive environments. In recent years, a growing body of evidence has demonstrated that Nafion is equally well-suited in complex biological conditions owing to its structural robustness, responsive functionality and intrinsic biocompatibility. These characteristics have enabled its transition into the biomedical and healthcare sectors, where it is currently being explored for a diverse and expanding range of applications. To that end, Nafion has been systematically investigated as a key component in bioelectronic systems for energy harvest, sensors, wearable electronics, tissue engineering, lab-on-a-chip platforms, implants, controlled drug delivery systems and antimicrobial surface coatings. This review examines the distinctive structural and electrochemical characteristics that underpin Nafion’s performance in these biomedical contexts, provides an overview of recent advancements, emphasizes critical performance metrics and highlights the material’s growing potential to shape the future of biomedical technology. Full article

The safety associated with the bearing capacity of pile foundations is intrinsically linked to the overall safety, stability, and economic viability of structural systems. In response to the need for rapid and precise predictions of pile bearing capacity, this study introduces a kernel extreme learning machine (KELM) prediction model optimized through a multi-strategy improved beetle optimization algorithm (IDBO), referred to as the IDBO-KELM model. The model utilizes the pile length, pile diameter, average effective vertical stress, and undrained shear strength as input variables, with the bearing capacity serving as the output variable. Initially, experimental data on pile bearing capacity was gathered from the existing literature and subsequently normalized to facilitate effective integration into the model training process. A detailed introduction of the multi-strategy improved beetle optimization algorithm (IDBO) is provided, with its superior performance validated through 23 benchmark functions. Furthermore, the Wilcoxon rank sum test was employed to statistically assess the experimental outcomes, confirming the IDBO algorithm’s superiority over other prevalent metaheuristic algorithms. The IDBO algorithm was then utilized to optimize the hyperparameters of the KELM model for predicting pile bearing capacity. In conclusion, the statistical metrics for the IDBO-KELM model demonstrated a root mean square error (RMSE) of 4.7875, a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.9313, and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 10.71%. In comparison, the baseline KELM model exhibited an RMSE of 6.7357, an R² of 0.8639, and an MAPE of 18.47%. This represents an improvement exceeding 35%. These findings suggest that the IDBO-KELM model surpasses the KELM model across all evaluation metrics, thereby confirming its superior accuracy in predicting pile bearing capacity. Full article

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can modulate cortical excitability in a polarity-specific manner, yet identical protocols often produce inconsistent outcomes across sessions or individuals. This narrative review proposes that much of this variability arises from the brain’s intrinsic temporal landscape. Integrating evidence from chronobiology, sleep research, and non-invasive brain stimulation, we argue that tDCS produces reliable, polarity-specific after-effects only within a circadian–homeostatic “window of efficacy”. On the circadian (Process C) axis, intrinsic alertness, membrane depolarisation, and glutamatergic gain rise in the late biological morning and early evening, whereas pre-dawn phases are marked by reduced excitability and heightened inhibition. On the homeostatic (Process S) axis, consolidated sleep renormalises synaptic weights, widening the capacity for further potentiation, whereas prolonged wakefulness saturates plasticity and can even reverse the usual anodal/cathodal polarity rules. Human stimulation studies mirror this two-process fingerprint: sleep deprivation abolishes anodal long-term-potentiation-like effects and converts cathodal inhibition into facilitation, while stimulating at each participant’s chronotype-aligned (phase-aligned) peak time amplifies and prolongs after-effects even under equal sleep pressure. From these observations we derive practical recommendations: (i) schedule excitatory tDCS after restorative sleep and near the individual wake-maintenance zone; (ii) avoid sessions at high sleep pressure or circadian troughs; (iii) log melatonin phase, chronotype, recent sleep and, where feasible, core temperature; and (iv) consider mild pre-heating or time-restricted feeding as physiological primers. By viewing Borbély’s two-process model and allied metabolic clocks as adjustable knobs for plasticity engineering, this review provides a conceptual scaffold for personalised, time-sensitive tDCS protocols that could improve reproducibility in research and therapeutic gain in the clinic. Full article

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess an intrinsic tumor-tropic ability, and therefore, MSCs may potentially be used as biomimetic carriers for active drug delivery systems targeting tumors. We previously developed a method to efficiently load liposomes onto the surface of MSCs via electrostatic interactions. The prepared liposome-loaded MSCs (Lip-MSCs) spontaneously accumulated in solid melanoma tumors with low vascular permeability while stably carrying liposomes. Methods: To explore Lip-MSC applications in cancer chemotherapy, doxorubicin (DOX)-encapsulated liposomes (DOX-Lip) were prepared and loaded onto MSCs. The cell viability, DOX-releasing properties, tumor-homing capacity, and anti-tumor efficacy of DOX-Lip-MSCs were analyzed. Results: Small liposomes (100 nm) retained DOX, whereas significant leakage of DOX was observed from 600 nm-sized liposomes. Based on this result, we used 100 nm DOX-Lip for the preparation of DOX-Lip-MSCs. Compared with MSCs loaded with DOX by incubation with DOX solution, DOX-Lip-MSCs could load a larger amount of DOX with minimal cytotoxicity. DOX-Lip-MSCs also showed sustained DOX release. DOX-Lip-MSCs efficiently migrated toward the conditioned medium of B16/BL6 melanoma cells in vitro and accumulated in B16/BL6 tumors in vivo, leading to a significant inhibitory effect on tumor growth. Conclusions: Lip-MSCs can serve as an efficient carrier to deliver anti-cancer drugs into solid tumors. Full article

Oral administration remains the preferred drug delivery route but faces formidable gastrointestinal barriers, including enzymatic degradation, solubility limitations, and poor epithelial absorption. Zein-based nanocarriers (ZBNs), derived from maize prolamin, provide a transformative platform to address these challenges. This review synthesizes recent advances in ZBNs’ design, highlighting their intrinsic advantages: structural stability across pH gradients, self-assembly versatility, and a surface functionalization capacity. Critically, we detail how engineered ZBNs overcome key barriers, such as enzymatic/chemical protection via hydrophobic encapsulation, the enhanced mucus penetration or adhesion through surface engineering, and improved epithelial transport via ligand conjugation. Applications demonstrate their efficacy in stabilizing labile therapeutics, enhancing the solubility of BCS Class II/IV drugs, enabling pH-responsive release, and significantly boosting oral bioavailability. Remaining challenges in scalability and translational predictability warrant future efforts toward multifunctional systems, bio-interfacial modeling, and continuous manufacturing. This work positions ZBNs as a potential platform for the oral delivery of BCS Class II–IV drugs’ in the biopharmaceutics classification system. Full article

Outer-membrane vesicles (OMVs), naturally secreted by Gram-negative bacteria, have gained recognition as a versatile platform for the development of next-generation vaccines. OMVs are essential contributors to bacterial pathogenesis, horizontal gene transfer, cellular communication, the maintenance of bacterial fitness, and quorum sensing. Their intrinsic immunogenicity, adjuvant properties, and scalability establish OMVs as potent tools for combating infectious diseases and cancer. Recent advancements in genetic engineering and biotechnology have further expanded the utility of OMVs, enabling the incorporation of multiple epitopes and antigens from diverse pathogens. These developments address critical challenges such as antigenic variability and co-infections, offering broader immune coverage and cost-effective solutions. This review explores the unique structural and immunological properties of OMVs, emphasizing their capacity to elicit robust immune responses. It critically examines established and emerging engineering strategies, including the genetic engineering of surface-displayed antigens, surface conjugation, glycoengineering, nanoparticle-based OMV engineering, hybrid OMVs, and in situ OMV production, among others. Furthermore, recent advancements in preclinical research on OMV-based vaccines, including synthetic OMVs, OMV-based nanorobots, and nanodiscs, as well as emerging isolation and purification methods, are discussed. Lastly, future directions are proposed, highlighting the potential integration of synthetic biology techniques to accelerate research on OMV engineering. Full article

Background: Potent androgen receptor pathway inhibitors induce small cell neuroendocrine prostate cancer (SCNC), a highly aggressive subtype of metastatic androgen deprivation-resistant prostate cancer (ARPC) with limited treatment options and poor survival rates. Patients with metastases in the liver have a poor prognosis relative to those with bone metastases alone. The mechanisms that underlie the different behavior of ARPC in bone vs. liver may involve factors intrinsic to the tumor cell, tumor microenvironment, and/or systemic factors, and identifying these factors is critical to improved diagnosis and treatment of SCNC. Metabolic reprogramming is a fundamental strategy of tumor cells to colonize and proliferate in microenvironments distinct from the primary site. Understanding the metabolic plasticity of cancer cells may reveal novel approaches to imaging and treating metastases more effectively. Methods: Using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and spectroscopy, we interrogated the physiological and metabolic characteristics of SCNC patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) propagated in the bone and liver, and used correlative biochemical, immunohistochemical, and transcriptomic measures to understand the biological underpinnings of the observed imaging metrics. Results: We found that the influence of the microenvironment on physiologic measures using MRI was variable among PDXs. However, the MR measure of glycolytic capacity in the liver using hyperpolarized ¹³C pyruvic acid recapitulated the enzyme activity (lactate dehydrogenase), cofactor (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), and stable isotope measures of fractional enrichment of lactate. While in the bone, the congruence of the glycolytic components was lost and potentially weighted by the interaction of cancer cells with osteoclasts/osteoblasts. Conclusion: While there was little impact of microenvironmental factors on metabolism, the physiological measures (cellularity and perfusion) are highly variable and necessitate the use of combined hyperpolarized ¹³C MRI and multiparametric (anatomic, diffusion-, and perfusion- weighted) ¹H MRI to better characterize pre-treatment tumor characteristics, which will be crucial to evaluate treatment response. Full article

Real-time train rescheduling is a widely used strategy to minimize knock-on delays in railway networks. While recent research has introduced intelligent solutions to railway traffic management, the tight interdependence of train timetables and the intrinsic complexity of railway networks have hindered the scalability of these approaches to large-scale systems. This paper proposes a multi-agent system (MAS) that addresses these challenges by decomposing the network into single-junction levels, significantly reducing the search space for real-time rescheduling. The MAS employs a Condorcet voting-based collaborative approach to ensure global feasibility and prevent overly localized optimization by individual junction agents. This decentralized approach enhances both the quality and scalability of train rescheduling solutions. We tested the MAS on a railway network in the UK and compared its performance with the First-Come-First-Served (FCFS) and Timetable Order Enforced (TTOE) routing methods. The computational results show that the MAS significantly outperforms FCFS and TTOE in the tested scenarios, yielding up to a 34.11% increase in network capacity as measured by the defined objective function, thus improving network line capacity. Full article

The urgent demand for sustainable energy solutions in the face of climate change and resource depletion has catalyzed a global shift toward cleaner energy production and more efficient storage technologies. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), as the cornerstone of modern portable electronics, electric vehicles, and grid-scale storage systems, are continually evolving to meet the growing performance requirements. In this dynamic context, two-dimensional (2D) materials have emerged as highly promising candidates for use in electrodes due to their layered structure, tunable electronic properties, and high theoretical capacity. Among 2D materials, molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) has gained increasing attention as a promising low-dimensional candidate for LIB anode applications. This review provides a comprehensive yet concise overview of recent advances in the application of MoS₂ in LIB electrodes, with particular attention to its unique electrochemical behavior at the nanoscale. We critically examine the interplay between structural features, charge-storage mechanisms, and performance metrics—chiefly the specific capacity, rate capability, and cycling stability. Furthermore, we discuss current challenges, primarily poor intrinsic conductivity and volume fluctuations, and highlight innovative strategies aimed at overcoming these limitations, such as through nanostructuring, composite formation, and surface engineering. By shedding light on the opportunities and hurdles in this rapidly progressing field, this work offers a forward-looking perspective on the role of MoS₂ in the next generation of high-performance LIBs. Full article

The growing demand for sustainable materials has intensified the search for biodegradable polymers. Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), though biodegradable, is fossil-derived. In this study, a novel lignin extracted from pine wood using a green solvent was incorporated into PCL and compared with commercial lignins (dealkaline, alkaline, and lignosulfonate). The lignin additions imparted antioxidant properties, enhanced thermal stability, and promoted circular economy goals through lignin valorization. Notably, the green-extracted lignin showed superior compatibility with PCL when compared with commercial lignins, as evidenced by lower water uptake and solubility, and improved surface hydrophobicity (higher contact angle). Although the addition of lignin reduced the tensile strength and elongation at break, it greatly increased the PCL radical scavenging activity (DPPH) from 8 ± 1% of neat PCL to 94.8 ± 0.3% when 20 wt% of lignin-LA was added. Among the tested lignins, lignin-LA stands out as the most promising candidate to be applied as a functional additive in biodegradable polymer blends and composites for advanced sustainable applications. Not only given its intrinsically higher sustainability but also due to its capacity for improving the thermal properties of PCL–lignin blends. Full article

Many studies have focused on ageing and gut microbiota, but the correlation between gut microbiota and physical function in older adults, especially those with longevity, remains obscure and deserves further exploration. In this study we investigated changes in the gut microbiota and the association between gut microbiota and physical function in adults with longevity. This is a prospective observational study. Fifty-one older adults aged ≥ 60 years (including 27 participants aged 90 years and above) were enrolled. Information on clinical data, physical function including intrinsic capacity by Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) tool, and dietary habits of participants was collected and analysed. Gut microbiota structure and functional pathways were analysed by Metagenomics. Intrinsic capacity (measured as ICOPE scores) of adults’ longevity (aged 90–98, longe group) was significantly lower than older adults aged 60–89 years (CON group) (5.44 ± 2.15 vs. 6.71 ± 1.46, p = 0.017). Gut microbiota of the longe group is enriched in Akkermansia and Bifidobacterium, which may be beneficial to health. Gut microbiota was closely related to daily milk (including plain milk, flavoured milk with a content of cow’s milk or reconstituted milk of ≥80%, or reconstituted milk or fermented milk with a content of cow’s milk or milk powder of ≥80%) consumption, anxiety, and physical function including grip strength by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Bacteroides plebeius and Bacteroides eggerthii were increased in long-living adults with better physical function. Escherichia coli was more abundant in frail young-old adults. Grip strength is positively correlated with the abundance of Roseburia hominis, Eubacterium rectale, Eubacterium eligens, and Roseburia intestinalis (p < 0.05). Pathways related to amino acid synthesis that include L-isoleucine, L-valine, and L-threonine were over-presented in long-living adults of better physical function. Adults with longevity showed comparable gut microbiota abundance to younger elderly individuals. The gut microbiota of long-living adults showed higher abundance of potentially beneficial bacteria, and the altered bacteria are closely associated with physical function. Changes in the gut microbiota may precede clinical indicators during the process of ageing. Gut microbiota may be a potential biomarker for longevity and healthy ageing. Nutrition and emotional state can be important influencing factors. Full article

Circadian rhythms are intrinsic, with roughly 24 h oscillations that coordinate many physiological functions and are increasingly recognized as key determinants of human health. When these rhythms become misaligned, there is an increased risk for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, metabolic syndrome, sleep disturbances, and even certain cancers. The hormones, melatonin that rises in the evening and cortisol that peaks shortly after awakening, represent crucial biochemical markers of the circadian phase. This review systematically evaluates contemporary techniques for quantifying melatonin and cortisol, comparing biological matrices (blood, saliva, urine) alongside analytical platforms. Special focus is placed on two clinically informative markers: Dim Light Melatonin Onset (DLMO) and the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR). We compared immunoassays with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC MS/MS), highlighting differences in sensitivity, specificity, and laboratory feasibility. Potential confounders, including ambient light, body posture, and exact sampling times—are discussed in detail, to show the capacity of providing the most reliable results. By emphasizing the need for standardized protocols and controlled sampling conditions, this review provides essential guidance for researchers and clinicians aiming to assess the circadian biomarkers melatonin and cortisol with precision since they can be used in clinical practice as diagnostic and prognostic tools for assessing numerous pathologies. Full article

A novel bivalent oral vaccine candidate against H5N1 and H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) was developed using Lactobacillus surface display technology without genetic modification. The hemagglutinin subunit 1 (HA1) antigens from both subtypes were fused to the surface layer-binding domain of Lactobacillus crispatus K313, expressed in Escherichia coli, and purified. Wild-type Lactobacillus johnsonii H31, isolated from chicken intestine, served as a delivery vehicle by adsorbing and stably displaying the HA1 proteins on its surface. This approach eliminates the need for bacterial engineering while utilizing lactobacilli’s natural capacity to protect surface-displayed antigens, as evidenced by HA1’s protease resistance. Mouse immunization studies demonstrated induction of strong systemic IgG and mucosal IgA responses against both H5N1 and H9N2 HA1. The system offers several advantages, including safety through non-GMO probiotics, potential for multivalent vaccine expansion, and intrinsic antigen protection by lactobacilli. These findings suggest this platform could enable development of cost-effective, multivalent AIV vaccines. Full article

Hip fractures are among the most serious health events in older adults, frequently leading to disability, loss of independence, and elevated mortality. In 2019, an estimated 9.6 million new cases occurred globally among adults aged ≥ 55 years, with an incidence rate of 681 per 100,000. Despite improved surgical care, one-year mortality remains high (15–30%), and fewer than half of survivors regain their pre-fracture functional status. Traditionally regarded as mechanical injuries, hip fractures are now increasingly recognized as systemic events reflecting and accelerating biological vulnerability and frailty progression. We synthesize evidence across biological, clinical, and social domains to explore the systemic implications of hip fracture, from the acute catabolic response and immune dysfunction to long-term functional decline. The concept of intrinsic capacity, introduced by the World Health Organization, offers a resilience-based framework to assess the multidimensional impact of hip fracture on physical, cognitive, and psychological function. We highlight the importance of orthogeriatric co-management, early surgical intervention, and integrated rehabilitation strategies tailored to the individual’s functional reserves and personal goals. Innovations such as digital health tools, biological aging biomarkers, and personalized surgical approaches represent promising avenues to enhance recovery and autonomy. Ultimately, we advocate for a shift toward interdisciplinary, capacity-oriented models of care that align with the goals of healthy aging and enable recovery that transcends survival, focusing instead on restoring function and quality of life. Full article

Smectite clay minerals are known to readily form thixotropic physical gels in aqueous media, even at low volume fractions. Although the rheological properties of these gels are closely related to the microstructure of the network, the influence of the clay’s physicochemical characteristics remains insufficiently understood. In this study, we systematically investigated the relationships between particle size, cation exchange capacity, and zeta potential, and the rheological behavior of aqueous dispersions of four synthetic smectites. After thorough deionization, dispersions were prepared at controlled NaCl concentrations. We found that the zeta potential strongly correlates with the fineness of the network structure and governs macroscopic rheological responses such as viscosity, yield stress, and gelation behavior. Even under identical conditions, gel transparency and structural coarseness varied significantly among clay types. Furthermore, the storage modulus was influenced not only by network density but also by the intrinsic stiffness of the clay branches. These findings demonstrate that zeta potential serves as a unified indicator of structure and function in smectite dispersions and offer useful insights for gel design in colloidal and soft matter systems. Full article