Search Results (511)

Body fluid identification at crime scenes is the first step in the forensic biology workflow, leading to the identification of the perpetrator and/or, in some cases, the victim. Current methods that are regularly used in forensic criminal evidence analysis utilize well-studied properties of each fluid as the foundation of the protocol. Among these approaches, alternative light sources, chemical reactions, lateral flow immunochromatographic tests, and microscopic detection stand out to identify the main body fluids encountered at crime scenes: blood, semen, and saliva. However, these often come with limits for specificity and sensitivity. There is also difficulty with fluid mixtures, environmental degradation, and destruction of the sample by the method used. Other fluids, like vaginal fluid and fecal matter, lack standardized protocols and require innovative ideas for accurate analysis without compromising the sample. Emerging technologies based on molecular methods have been the focus of body fluid research, with emphasis on topics such as mRNA, microRNA, epigenetics, and microbial analysis. Additional information alongside the determination of fluid origin could be an advantage from new molecular techniques, such as the identification of donors from SNP analysis, if regular STR analysis is not possible. Validation studies and the integration of such research have the potential to expand and enhance the laboratory practices of forensic science. This article will provide an overview of the current methods applied in the crime lab for body fluid identification before exploring active research in this field, pointing out the potential of these techniques for application in forensic cases to overcome present issues and expand the variety of body fluids identified. Full article

Piezochromic nanomaterials, whose optical responses can be reversibly tuned by mechanical stimuli, have recently gained prominence as versatile platforms for strain-programmable light–matter interactions. Their mechanically responsive band structures, excitonic states, and defect energetics have enabled a wide range of optoelectronic demonstrations—including pressure-tunable emitters, reconfigurable photonic structures, and adaptive modulators—which collectively highlight the unique advantages of mechanical degrees of freedom for controlling optical functionality. These advances naturally suggest new opportunities in photovoltaic technologies, where experimentally validated phase stabilization and defect reorganization under low-strain thin-film conditions could address long-standing limitations in solar absorbers and device stability. Meanwhile, stress-mediated bandgap tuning—largely inferred from high-pressure laboratory studies—presents a conceptual blueprint for future adaptive spectral response and structural self-monitoring. However, the application of these mechanisms faces a major challenge in bridging the magnitude gap between GPa-level high-pressure phenomena and the low-strain regimes of realistic operational environments. Future development requires advances in low-threshold responsive materials, innovative strain-amplifying device architectures, and the pursuit of intelligent, multi-functional system integration. Full article

This article describes a field- and laboratory-based framework that can be used to monitor the C balance in Mediterranean pine forest ecosystems under different management practices that determine their structure and function. By jointly monitoring stand structure, gas exchange, litter, and decomposition dynamics, this protocol enables the assessment of how management-driven changes regulate carbon uptake, turnover, and losses, thereby affecting carbon sequestration potential. As an example, we suggest the implementation of the protocol at ten (10) permanent monitoring plots across three study areas located in Greece. The first group of plots represents a post-fire chronosequence in pine stands with no management interventions. The second group includes pine stands that exhibit variation in overstory and understory density driven by differences in microclimate and management history. The third group consists of peri-urban pine stands subjected to thinning of varying intensity. The monitoring protocol is implemented across all plots and the collected data can be classified into three analytical domains: (a) demography, encompassing measurements of tree growth and mortality; (b) litter and decomposition dynamics, involving the quantification of litterfall and its seasonality and the estimation of its decomposition rates; and (c) gas exchange, focusing on measurements of leaf photosynthesis and respiration (including relevant leaf functional traits) and monitoring of soil respiration. These three data domains can be used to comparatively consider the effect of forest management on key ecosystem processes and to constrain local-scale vegetation dynamics models. Full article

Background/Objectives: Specific pharmacological osteoporosis therapy (SPOT) is regarded as a key intervention to reduce fracture risk and improve musculoskeletal function. Real-life data, particularly regarding functional muscular outcomes and pain trajectories, remain limited. This study aimed to longitudinally analyze bone mineral density, laboratory parameters, handgrip strength, functional performance, and pain symptoms under guideline-based SPOT. Methods: In this monocentric prospective real-life observational study, 178 patients (80.9% women; median age 82 years) with confirmed osteoporosis were followed for a median of four years. All patients received guideline-recommended antiresorptive or osteoanabolic therapy. Analyses included T-scores, 25(OH)D, calcium, handgrip strength, Chair Rise Test (CRT), tandem stance (TS), pain parameters, alkaline phosphatase (AP), HbA1c, fractures, comorbidities, and body mass index (BMI). Time-dependent changes were evaluated using linear mixed-effects models. Results: Bone mineral density improved highly significantly (ΔT-score ≈ +0.45 SD; p < 0.001), with no differences between therapy groups (antiresorptive vs. osteoanabolic) or BMI categories. Serum 25(OH)D levels increased markedly (Δ ≈ +20 nmol/L; p < 0.001), while calcium levels showed a small but highly significant decrease (Δ ≈ −0.047 mmol/L; p < 0.001), particularly under antiresorptive treatment. Dominant (Δ ≈ −1.95 kg; p < 0.001) and non-dominant handgrip strength (Δ ≈ −0.83 kg; p = 0.046) decreased significantly. In contrast, functional performance improved significantly: CRT time decreased by ~1 s (p = 0.004), and TS time increased by ~1 s (p = 0.007). Back pain decreased highly significantly (Δ ≈ −1.5 NRS; p < 0.001), while pain-free walking time (Δ ≈ +38 min; p = 0.031) and pain-free standing time (Δ ≈ +31 min; p = 0.038) both increased significantly. AP levels decreased significantly (p = 0.003), particularly among normal-weight patients. HbA1c changes were not significant. Overall, 73% of patients had at least one major osteoporotic fracture. Conclusions: In this real-life cohort, guideline-based specific pharmacological osteoporosis therapy was associated with significant improvements in bone mineral density, vitamin D status, functional performance, and pain-related outcomes. Despite a moderate decline in handgrip strength, balance- and mobility-related functional parameters improved, suggesting preserved or even enhanced functional capacity in daily life. These findings provide real-world evidence on the associations between SPOT, laboratory parameters, functional performance, and pain outcomes in a very elderly and multimorbid population. Full article

Fungi have emerged as versatile biotechnological platforms for addressing environmental challenges with potential co-benefits for human health. Among them, Pleurotus ostreatus stands out for its ligninolytic enzyme systems (notably laccases), capacity to valorize lignocellulosic residues, and ability to form functional mycelial materials. We conducted an evidence-mapped review, based on a bibliometric analysis of the Scopus corpus (2001–2025; 2085 records), to characterize research fronts and practical opportunities in environmental remediation and sustainable bioprocesses involving P. ostreatus. The mapped literature shows sustained growth and global engagement, with prominent themes in: (a) oxidative transformation of phenolic compounds, dyes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; (b) biodegradation/bioconversion of agro-industrial residues into value-added products; and (c) development of bio-based materials and processes aligned with the circular bioeconomy. We synthesize how these strands translate to real-world contexts, reducing contaminant loads, closing nutrient loops, and enabling low-cost processes that may indirectly reduce exposure-related risks. Key translational gaps persist: standardization of environmental endpoints, scale-up from laboratory to field, performance in complex matrices, life-cycle impacts and cost, ecotoxicological safety, and long-term monitoring. A practical agenda was proposed that prioritizes field-scale demonstrations with harmonized protocols, integration of life-cycle assessment and cost metrics, data sharing, and One Health frameworks linking environmental gains with plausible health co-benefits. In conclusion, P. ostreatus is a tractable platform organism for sustainable remediation and bio-manufacturing. This evidence map clarifies where the field is mature and where focused effort can accelerate the impact of future research. Full article

Industry 5.0 challenges higher education to adopt human-centred and sustainable uses of artificial intelligence, yet many current deployments still treat generative AI as a stand-alone tool, neurophysiological sensing as largely laboratory-bound, and governance as an external add-on rather than a design constraint. This article introduces Nested Learning as a neuro-adaptive ecosystem design in which generative-AI agents, IoT infrastructures and multimodal deep learning orchestrate instructional support while preserving student agency and a “pedagogy of hope”. We report an exploratory two-phase mixed-methods study as an initial empirical illustration. First, a neuro-experimental calibration with 18 undergraduate students used mobile EEG while they interacted with ChatGPT in problem-solving tasks structured as challenge–support–reflection micro-cycles. Second, a field implementation at a university in Madrid involved 380 participants (300 students and 80 lecturers), embedding the Nested Learning ecosystem into regular courses. Data sources included EEG (P300) signals, interaction logs, self-report measures of engagement, self-regulated learning and cognitive safety (with strong internal consistency; $\alpha /\omega \ge 0.82$), and open-ended responses capturing emotional experience and ethical concerns. In Phase 1, P300 dynamics aligned with key instructional micro-events, providing feasibility evidence that low-cost neuro-adaptive pipelines can be sensitive to pedagogical flow in ecologically relevant tasks. In Phase 2, participants reported high levels of perceived nested support and cognitive safety, and observed associations between perceived Nested Learning, perceived neuro-adaptive adjustments, engagement and self-regulation were moderate to strong ($r=0.41$–$0.63$, $p<0.001$). Qualitative data converged on themes of clarity, adaptive support and non-punitive error culture, alongside recurring concerns about privacy and cognitive sovereignty. We argue that, under robust ethical, data-protection and sustainability-by-design constraints, Nested Learning can strengthen academic resilience, learner autonomy and human-centred uses of AI in higher education. Full article

Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM), often referred to as environmental or atypical mycobacteria, are opportunistic pathogens phylogenetically as well as clinically distinct from both the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and Mycobacterium leprae. In the pediatric age group, NTM disease manifests with a diverse range of clinical phenotypes. Cervicofacial lymphadenitis stands out as the most common presentation among children who are immunocompetent. Conversely, skin and soft tissue infections, pulmonary disease and disseminated infections constitute less prevalent, yet clinically important, disease forms. Accurate identification is paramount, as differentiating NTM infections from tuberculosis (TB) remains challenging based solely on clinical symptoms, initial laboratory analyses, or standard radiological findings. This distinction is critical because treatment protocols for NTM infections differ substantially from those for tuberculosis. This narrative review offers a comprehensive and up-to-date summary of NTM infections in children. It examines the spectrum of clinical presentations and their prevalence, addresses the complexities of diagnosis and therapy, and underscores the importance of differential diagnosis against tuberculosis. Furthermore, we explore current diagnostic strategies, available therapeutic options, and the link between specific clinical syndromes and tailored management, pointing out existing knowledge gaps and suggesting priorities for future research. The absence of rapid, species-specific diagnostic tools often results in delayed initiation of targeted treatment, while overlapping clinical features with TB can lead to misdiagnosis. Therapeutic management is complicated by the necessity for prolonged drug courses, frequent occurrences of drug intolerance, limited availability of child-appropriate formulations, and the rising tide of antimicrobial resistance. Successfully tackling these issues demands enhanced surveillance, precise species-level identification, the creation of child-friendly drug formats, and the development of evidence-based treatment guidelines specifically designed for the pediatric population. Full article

This study proposes an indirect approach that estimates roll force from motor current signals in a rolling mill. Motor current is first converted to motor torque using an induction-motor equivalent-circuit model, then to roll torque via the gear ratio, and finally to roll force through a torque-arm relationship. A laboratory-scale rolling mill was designed and fabricated to experimentally validate the approach. Two torque-conversion schemes were examined: Method A, which determines the slip of the induction motor from measured rpm and recalculated motor parameters, and Method B, which estimates slip from measured motor current and applies a finite element (FE)–based response surface function to calibrate the converted torque. The converted roll torques were validated against FE analysis, and the resulting roll forces were compared with load cell measurements under various rolling conditions. Deviation, defined as the average difference between the FE-predicted torque and the converted torques, ranged from −11.9% to 28.8% for Method A and −7.2% to 13.8% for Method B. Roll force deviations from measurements ranged from −14.1% to 14.9% for Method A and −3.7% to 14.2% for Method B. Method A provided a straightforward and computationally light conversion route but was more sensitive to rpm-measurement noise, whereas Method B yielded smoother temporal behavior at the cost of FE-based calibration. The results demonstrate that both methods can reproduce the overall evolution of roll torque and roll force using only motor-side measurements, offering a practical foundation for real-time monitoring in rolling mills where stand-by-stand load cells are unavailable. Full article

The valorization of lignocellulosic biomass has been attracting interest in several industrial areas due to its potential to produce high-value-added compounds. Among these products, lignocellulosic enzymes stand out, capable of degrading biomass into fermentable polysaccharides, essential to produce second-generation ethanol and other bioproducts. The genus Pleurotus spp., a macrofungus with a high enzyme production capacity, has been consolidating itself as a promising alternative in the bioconversion of lignocellulosic residues. Contextually, this review explores for the first time the level of technology readiness associated with the production of enzymes by Pleurotus spp., in addition to addressing advances in patent filings and the role of these enzymes in the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass. Through a technological analysis based on a critical evaluation of 250 studies indexed in the database Scopus^® between 2015 and 2025, from which 16 studies were selected for a detailed and rigorous assessment of enzyme production by Pleurotus spp., it was observed that technological progress remains at the laboratory scale, in TRL 3 and 4, with few studies at the TRL 5 scale. In addition, the factors that may be affecting the increase in technological readiness of microbial enzyme production at pilot and industrial scales are discussed. The valorization of lignocellulosic biomass and the production of enzymes by macrofungi represent a promising path towards sustainability and cost reduction; however, significant challenges remain related to pilot-scale studies and increasing the level of technological maturity of these processes by Pleurotus spp., requiring further investigation of these processes to standardize and enable their industrial scale-up. Full article

Saline archaeological artifacts are highly susceptible to deterioration caused by salt crystallization and moisture–material interactions, particularly in coastal archaeological contexts affected by saline water intrusion. This persistent challenge necessitates the development of temporary, low-impact protective materials capable of limiting saline ingress. The present study reports on a preliminary assessment of modified polycaprolactone (PCL) films containing graphene oxide (GO) at 0.1%, 0.25%, and 0.5% to evaluate their potential as temporary barrier layers under saline stress conditions. Free-standing PCL/GO films were fabricated via solvent casting and exposed to natural Ionian seawater in a controlled laboratory incubation environment at 15 °C for up to 90 days, simulating early-stage saline exposure while controlling environmental variability and physical stress. Film behavior was evaluated through complementary surface, structural, mechanical, and permeability analyses. The findings indicate that GO content significantly influences surface wettability, microstructural evolution, and water transport properties. Low GO content (0.1%) enhanced barrier performance while maintaining structural integrity and controlled hydrolytic softening. In contrast, higher GO contents (0.25–0.5%) resulted in increased hydrophilicity, accelerated surface erosion, and greater mechanical degradation due to enhanced water uptake. Observed mass loss is attributed to early-stage hydrolysis rather than long-term biodegradation. This investigation is a material-level screening and does not represent a direct validation for conservation application. With superior stability and enhanced barrier properties, the optimized PCL/GO 0.1% film suggests significant potential for the protection of saline-affected archaeological materials. Full article

The teaching of the phytosociological method comprises several stages and aligns closely with the research-oriented teaching–learning process promoted by active methodologies. In both cases, preliminary inquiry is essential to review existing knowledge on vegetation in all its dimensions: bioclimatic, biogeographical, ecological, floristic composition, distribution, and conservation status. The main objective is to connect active teaching methodologies with phytosociological research. To this end, the natural environment is used to bring students into direct contact with plant communities, and the phytosociological research method is applied, through which students learn sampling techniques. This approach provides a rapid and effective assessment of habitat conservation status (EU Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, European Council, 21 May 1992). As notable results, we highlight the poor conservation status of the three communities described, which is evident from the decline in characteristic association species. The present study focuses on the wetlands of the Costa Tropical, where communities of Juncus acutus, Typha dominguensis, Phragmites australis, and Arundo donax predominate. In this case, these communities act as open-air laboratories for teaching the phytosociological method. The Juncus acutus communities differ from those of Scirpus holoschoenus and other Juncus acutus stands by the presence of the endemic Linum maritimum. Meanwhile, the reedbeds differ from Thypho-Phragmitetum australis through the presence of Halimione portulacoides. In both cases, the influence of sea spray conditions the presence of subhalophilous species such as Juncus acutus, Linum maritimum, and Halimione portulacoides. This has enabled us to establish two new plant associations: LmJa = Lino maritimi–Juncetum acuti (rush stands) and Hp–Phra = Halimione portulacoidis–Phragmitetum australis (reedbeds). Ecological gradients also make it possible to separate Typha communities belonging to the Ca–Td = Cynancho acuti–Typhetum dominguensis association, and Phragmites into two distinct associations. This distinction arises because Typha communities require soil water during the summer period, whereas in Phragmites stands the upper soil horizon dries out. Full article

The application of bioinspired nanocomposites in orthopedic implants marks a significant innovation in biomedical engineering, aimed at overcoming long-standing limitations of conventional implant materials. Traditional implants frequently suffer from poor osseointegration, mechanical mismatch with bone, and vulnerability to infection. Bioinspired nanocomposites, modeled after the hierarchical structures found in natural tissues such as bone and nacre, offer the potential to enhance mechanical performance, biological compatibility, and implant functionality. This study reviews and synthesizes current advancements in the design, fabrication, and functionalization of bioinspired nanocomposite materials for orthopedic use. Emphasis is placed on the integration of nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (nHA), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanotubes, and other nanostructured coatings that mimic the extracellular matrix. Methods include comparative evaluations of mechanical properties, surface modifications for biocompatibility, and analyses of antibacterial efficacy through nano-topographical features. Bioinspired nanocomposites have been shown to improve osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, thereby enhancing osseointegration. Nanostructured coatings such as TiO₂ nanotubes increase surface hydrophilicity and corrosion resistance, supporting long-term implant stability. Mechanically, these composites offer high stiffness, superior wear resistance, and improved strength-to-weight ratios. Biomimetic combinations of hydroxyapatite, zirconia, and biopolymers have demonstrated effective load transfer and reduced stress shielding. Additionally, antibacterial functionality has been achieved via nanostructured surfaces that deter bacterial adhesion while remaining cytocompatible with host tissues. The integration of bioinspired nanocomposites into orthopedic implants provides a multifunctional platform for enhancing clinical outcomes. These materials not only replicate the mechanical and biological properties of native bone but also introduce new capabilities such as infection resistance and stimuli-responsive behavior. Despite these advancements, challenges including manufacturing scalability, long-term durability, and regulatory compliance remain. Continued interdisciplinary research is essential for translating these innovations from laboratory to clinical practice. Full article

Trichinella spp. are zoonotic nematodes with a global distribution, primarily maintained through wildlife reservoirs which complicates eradication efforts. In Europe, four species—T. spiralis, T. britovi, T. nativa, and T. pseudospiralis—circulate in wild carnivores and omnivores, with T. britovi and T. spiralis being the most prevalent in wild and domestic hosts. This study aimed to assess the presence and species distribution of Trichinella spp. in wild mammals. This study presents the results of five years of wildlife surveillance carried out within the long-standing monitoring program implemented in the Emilia-Romagna region, northern Italy, which has been in place since 2006. Between 2020 and 2024, a total of 104,338 wild mammals, including red foxes, wolves, and wild boar, were tested using the magnetic stirrer digestion method in accordance with EU regulations. A total of 12 animals (0.011%) were found to be infected with Trichinella larvae. Molecular identification of positive samples, performed at the European Union Reference Laboratory for Parasites, showed the presence of T. britovi in 11 animals, while one isolate remained unidentified. T. britovi was detected primarily in wolves and red foxes. No infections were identified in wild boar during the study period. Overall, the low prevalence observed confirms that Trichinella spp. infections in wildlife in Emilia-Romagna are sporadic but persistently present. Only T. britovi was detected, supporting its role as the predominant species in this area. These findings highlight the importance of long-term surveillance for early detection and risk assessment within a One Health framework. Full article

Adults, on average, spend between 55% and 70% of their waking hours primarily in prolonged sitting, and such sedentary behavior has been associated with several health problems. Prolonged sitting postures during work hours are often mandated by the nature of the work task performed. Sit-to-stand workstations offer the benefit of transitioning from and between sitting to standing postures. However, most of the literature on sit-to-stand workstations is focused on generalized office workers, but different occupations have a whole different set of work-specific tasks that can inhibit the appropriate use of sit-to-stand workstations. Therefore, this narrative review aims to summarize various occupations that utilize or can utilize sit-to-stand workstations, including their nature of work tasks, the associated needs, benefits, pitfalls, and recommendations for improved workplace ergonomics. This narrative review summarizes important but less researched occupations such as emergency dispatchers, architects, customer support representatives, general practitioners, engineers, pharmacists, and laboratory research scientists, along with generalized office workers. The review will be of benefit to different health care professionals, work safety and ergonomic professionals, and individuals in each of the occupations discussed to better understand sit-to-stand workstations and their use to promote health and safety in the workplace. Full article

Human mobility is commonly assessed in the laboratory environment, but accurate and robust joint motion measurement and task classification in the home setting are rarely undertaken. This study aimed to develop a digital twin model of a home to measure, visualize, and classify joint motion during activities of daily living. A fully furnished single-bedroom apartment was digitally reconstructed using 3D photogrammetry. Ten healthy adults performed 19 activities of daily living over a 2 h period throughout the apartment. Each participant’s upper and lower limb joint motion was measured using inertial measurement units, and body spatial location was measured using an ultra-wide band sensor, registered to the digital home model. Supervised machine learning classified tasks with a mean 82.3% accuracy. Hair combing involved the highest range of shoulder elevation (124.2 ± 21.2°), while sit-to-stand exhibited both the largest hip flexion (75.7 ± 10.3°) and knee flexion (91.8 ± 8.6°). Joint motion varied from room to room, even for a given task. For example, subjects walked fastest in the living room (1.0 ± 0.2 m/s) and slowest in the bathroom (0.78 ± 0.10 m/s), while the mean maximum ankle dorsiflexion in the living room was significantly higher than that in the bathroom (mean difference: 4.9°, p = 0.002, Cohen’s d = 1.25). This study highlights the dependency of both upper and lower limb joint motion during activities of daily living on the internal home environment. The digital twin modeling framework reported may be useful in planning home-based rehabilitation, remote monitoring, and for interior design and ergonomics. Full article