Search Results (2,226)

In humans, the master circadian clock, present in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, plays an important role in controlling life-sustaining functions. The development of the circadian clock begins in the fetal period and is almost completed during infancy to early childhood, based on the developmental program that is influenced by the mother’s daily rhythms and, after birth, with the addition of information from the daily life environment. It is known that circadian rhythms are deeply related not only to the balance of a child’s mental and physical development but also to maintaining mental and physical health throughout one’s life. However, it has been suggested that various health problems in the future at any age may be caused by the occurrence of circadian disturbances transmitted by the mother during the fetal period. This phenomenon can be said to support the so-called DOHaD theory, and the involvement of the mother in the maturation of appropriate and stable circadian rhythms cannot be ignored. We consider the problems and countermeasures during the fetal and infant periods, which are important for the formation of circadian clocks. Full article

IgG Fc binding protein (FcGBP) is a mucin-like protein that binds strongly to IgG and IgG–antigen complexes in intestinal mucus. FcGBP presence and its altered expression levels in meconium accumulating in the fetal intestine and amniotic fluid flowing in the intestine may provide new knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for the immune adaptation of the fetus to extrauterine life. FcGBP concentrations were measured by ELISA in the first-pass meconium and amniotic fluid samples collected from 120 healthy neonates delivered by either vaginal birth (n = 35) or cesarean section (n = 85) at 36 to 41 weeks gestation. The meconium FcGBP concentrations (405.78 ± 145.22 ng/g) decreased (r = −0.241, p = 0.007) over the course of 36 to 41 weeks gestation, but there were no significant changes (p > 0.05) in the amniotic fluid FcGBP (135.70 ± 35.83 ng/mL) in the same period. Both meconium and amniotic fluid FcGBP concentrations were higher (p < 0.05) in neonates delivered by cesarean section. Decreases in the meconium FcGBP concentrations correlated (r = −0.37, p = 0.027) with the gestational age in neonates delivered by vaginal birth but not in those delivered by cesarean section (p > 0.05). No association was found between the FcGBP concentrations in meconium and amniotic fluid and the birth weight (p > 0.05). With the development of the mucosal immune system in the fetal intestine over the course of the third trimester of gestation, the meconium FcGBP concentrations decrease. Increased FcGBP concentrations measured in the meconium and amniotic fluid of neonates delivered by cesarean section may possibly indicate altered intestinal mucosal function. Intrauterine growth is not associated with the intestinal mucosal barrier maturation involving FcGBP. Full article

Aging in wooden barrels is a proven technique that enhances the sensory complexity of alcoholic beverages by promoting the extraction of volatile and phenolic compounds. While oak has been traditionally used, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative wood species that can impart distinct sensory characteristics and promote innovative maturation processes. This review examines the impact of alternative woods on the aging of beverages, such as wine, cachaça, tequila, and beer, focusing on their influence on aroma, flavor, color, and chemical composition. A bibliometric analysis highlights the increasing scientific attention toward wood diversification and emerging aging technologies, including ultrasound and micro-oxygenation, which accelerate maturation while preserving sensory complexity. The role of toasting techniques in modulating the release of phenolic and volatile compounds is also discussed, emphasizing their contribution to unique sensory profiles. Additionally, regulatory aspects and sustainability considerations are explored, suggesting that alternative woods can expand flavor possibilities while supporting environmentally sustainable practices. This review underscores the potential of non-traditional wood species to drive innovation in the aging of alcoholic beverages and provide new sensory experiences that align with evolving consumer preferences and market trends. Full article

Water governance in Europe faces mounting challenges from climate change, demographic pressures, and aging infrastructure—especially in Southern regions increasingly affected by drought and institutional fragmentation. In contrast, Nordic countries such as Denmark and Sweden exhibit coherent, integrated governance systems with strong regulatory oversight. This study introduces the Water Governance Maturity Index (WGMI), a document-based assessment tool designed to evaluate national water governance across five dimensions: institutional capacity, operational effectiveness, environmental ambition, equity, and climate adaptation. Applying the WGMI to eight EU countries—four Nordic and four Southern—reveals a persistent North–South divide in governance maturity. Nordic countries consistently score in the “advanced” or “model” range, while Southern countries face systemic gaps in implementation, climate integration, and territorial inclusion. Based on these findings, the study offers actionable policy recommendations, including the establishment of independent regulators, strengthening of river basin coordination, mainstreaming of climate-water strategies, and expansion of affordability and participation mechanisms. By translating complex governance principles into measurable indicators, the WGMI provides a practical tool for benchmarking reform progress and supporting the EU’s broader agenda for just resilience and climate adaptation. Unlike broader frameworks like SDG 6.5.1, the WGMI’s document-based, dimension-specific approach provides granular, actionable insights for governance reform, enhancing its utility for EU and global policymakers. Full article

Background: Central precocious puberty (CPP), defined as the onset of secondary sexual characteristics before age 8 in girls, is increasingly prevalent worldwide. CPP is often caused by early activation of the HPG axis, leading to accelerated growth and bone maturation. However, the diagnostic accuracy of standard bone age (BA) methods remains uncertain in this context. Objective: To compare the diagnostic accuracy of the Greulich–Pyle atlas (GPA) and Tanner–Whitehouse 3 (TW3) methods in estimating skeletal age in girls with CPP and to assess the predictive value of serum hormone levels for estimating chronological age (CA). Methods: An observational, cross-sectional diagnostic study was conducted, involving n = 109 girls aged 6–12 years with confirmed CPP (Ethics Committee approval: CHUC_2023_86; 13 July 2023). Left posteroanterior hand–wrist (PA–HW) radiographs were assessed using the GPA and TW3 methods. Anthropometric measurements were recorded, and serum concentrations of estradiol, LH, FSH, DHEA-S, cortisol, TSH, and free T4 were obtained. Comparisons between CA and BA estimates were conducted using repeated-measures ANOVA, and ANCOVA was applied to examine the hormonal predictors of CA. Results: Both GPA and TW3 overestimated CA between 7 and 12 years, with the GPA showing larger deviations (up to 4.8 months). The TW3 method provided more accurate estimations, particularly at advanced pubertal stages. Estradiol (η²_p = 0.188–0.197), LH (η²_p = 0.061–0.068), and FSH (η²_p = 0.008–0.023) emerged as the strongest endocrine predictors of CA, significantly enhancing the explanatory power of both radiological methods. Conclusions: The TW3 method demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy over GPA in girls with CPP, especially between 7 and 12 years. Integrating estradiol, LH, and FSH into BA assessment significantly improved the accuracy, supporting a more individualized and physiologically grounded diagnostic approach. Full article

Fresh fruit are highly perishable commodities, facing significant postharvest losses primarily due to physiological deterioration and microbial spoilage. Conventional preservation methods often face limitations regarding safety, residue, and environmental impact. Because of its rapid decomposition and low-residue-impact characteristics, ozone has proven superior as an efficient and eco-friendly solution for preserving fruit quality after harvest. The maturation and aging processes of kiwifruit are closely linked to the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the effects of intermittent ozone treatment (21.4 mg/m³, applied for 0, 1, 3, or 5 h weekly) on ROS metabolism, the antioxidant defense system, and storage quality of kiwifruit during cold storage (0.0 ± 0.5 °C). The results showed ozone treatment slowed the decline in titratable acid (TA) content and fruit firmness, inhibited increases in total soluble solids (TSSs) and weight loss, and maintained the storage quality. Additionally, ozone treatment enhanced the activities of antioxidant-related enzymes. This includes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). Furthermore, it delayed the reduction in ascorbate (ASA), glutathione (GSH), total phenolic compounds, and flavonoid content, while also preventing the accumulation of ROS and the rise in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. In summary, the results indicate that ozone treatment enhances the antioxidant capacity of kiwifruit by increasing the structural integrity of cell membranes, preserving the structural integrity of cell membranes, and effectively maintaining the storage quality of the fruit. Full article

To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying anther abortion in celery male sterile lines, this study investigates the morphological differences of floral organs and differential gene expression patterns between two lines at the flowering stage. Using the male sterile line of celery ‘QCBU-001’ and the fertile line ‘Jinnan Shiqin’ as materials, anther structure was analyzed by paraffin sections, and related genes were detected using transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR. The results indicated that the anther locules were severely shrunken at maturity in the sterile lines. The callose deficiency led to abnormal development of microspores, preventing the formation of mature pollen grains and ultimately leading to complete anther abortion. The transcriptome results revealed that 3246 genes were differentially expressed in sterile and fertile lines, which were significantly enriched in pathways such as starch and sucrose metabolism and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. Additionally, differential expression patterns of transcription factor families (MYB, bHLH, AP2, GRAS, and others) suggested their potential involvement in regulating anther abortion. Notably, the expression level of callose synthase gene AgGSL2 was significantly downregulated in sterile anthers, which might be an important cause of callose deficiency and pollen sterility. This study not only provides a theoretical basis for elucidating the molecular mechanism underlying male sterility in celery but also lays a foundation for the utilization and improvement of male sterile lines in vegetable hybrid breeding. Full article

Background/Objectives: Growth prediction may be used by the clinical orthodontist in growing individuals for diagnostic purposes and for treatment planning. This process appraises chronological age and determines the degree of skeletal maturity to calculate residual growth. In developmental deviations, overlooking such diagnostic details might culminate in erroneous conclusions, unstable outcomes, recurrence, and treatment failure. The present review aims to systematically present and explain the available means for predicting growth in humans. Traditional, long-known, popular methods are discussed, and modern digital applications are described. Materials and methods: A search on PubMed and the gray literature up to May 2025 produced 69 eligible studies on future maxillofacial growth prediction without any orthodontic intervention. Results: Substantial variability exists in the studies on growth prediction. In young orthodontic patients, the study of the lateral cephalometric radiography and the subsequent calculation of planes and angles remain questionable for diagnosis and treatment planning. Skeletal age assessment is readily accomplished with X-rays of the cervical vertebrae and the hand–wrist region. Computer software is being implemented to improve the reliability of classic methodologies. Metal implants have been used in seminal growth studies. Biochemical methods and electromyography have been suggested for clinical prediction and for research purposes. Conclusions: In young patients, it would be of importance to reach conclusions on future growth with minimal distress to the individual and, also, reduced exposure to ionizing radiation. Nevertheless, the potential for comprehensive prediction is still largely lacking. It could be accomplished in the future by combining established methods with digital technology. Full article

Proper joint function has a significant impact on people’s quality of life. Joints are the point of connection between two or more bones and consist of at least three elements: joint surfaces, the joint capsule, and the joint cavity. Joint diseases are a serious social problem. Risk factors for the development of these diseases include overweight and obesity, gender, and intestinal microbiome disorders. Another factor that is considered to influence joint diseases is trace elements. Under normal conditions, elements such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), iodine (I), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), silver (Ag), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni) selenium (Se), boron (B), and silicon (Si) are part of enzymes involved in reactions that determine the proper functioning of cells, regulate redox metabolism, and determine the maturation of cells that build joint components. However, when the normal concentration of the above-mentioned elements is disturbed and toxic elements are present, dangerous joint diseases can develop. In this article, we focus on the role of trace elements in joint function. We describe the molecular mechanisms that explain their interaction with chondrocytes, osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and synoviocytes, as well as their proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix synthesis. We also focus on the role of these trace elements in the pathogenesis of joint diseases: rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We describe the roles of increased or decreased concentrations of individual elements in the pathogenesis and development of joint diseases and their impact on inflammation and disease progression, referring to molecular mechanisms. We also discuss their potential application in the treatment of joint diseases. Full article

Understanding the interplay between lightning activity and hydrometeor distribution is crucial for advancing knowledge of thunderstorm electrification processes. Using three-dimensional lightning mapping and dual-polarization radar observations, this study investigates the spatiotemporal correlations between low-frequency (LF) lightning sources and hydrometeors during a severe thunderstorm on 11 June 2014, in North Carolina, USA. The results reveal that lightning sources are predominantly observed above 6 km (near the −10 °C isotherm) and stabilize into a dual-peak vertical distribution as the storm progresses into its mature stage, with peaks located at 6–7 km (−10 °C to −15 °C) and 10–11 km (approximately −40 °C). Low-density graupel (LDG) and aggregates (AGs) dominate at lightning locations. Stronger updrafts lead to higher proportions of LDG and high-density graupel (HDG), and lower proportions of AG. LDG exhibits the strongest positive correlation with LF lightning sources, with a peak correlation coefficient of 0.65 at 9 km. During the vigorous development stage, HDG and hail (Ha) also show positive correlations with LF lightning sources, with peak correlation coefficients of 0.52 at 7 km and 0.42 at 8 km, respectively. As the storm reaches its mature phase, the correlation between LDG and lightning sources also displays a dual-peak vertical distribution, with peaks at 7–8 km and 13–14 km. Both the peak correlation coefficient and its corresponding height increase with the strengthening of updrafts, underscoring the critical role of updrafts in microphysical characteristics and driving electrification processes. Full article

Objective: To determine reference values of liver stiffness during the first week of extrauterine life in healthy newborns, according to gestational age, sex, and birth weight, using three elastography techniques: point shear wave elastography (pSWE) and two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) with convex and linear probes. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted at a single center on a hospital-based cohort of 287 newborns between 24 and 42 weeks of gestation, admitted between January 2023 and May 2024. Cases with liver disease, significant neonatal morbidity, or technically invalid studies were excluded. Hepatic elastography was performed during the first week of life using pSWE and 2D-SWE with both convex and linear probes. Clinical and technical neonatal variables were recorded. Liver stiffness values were analyzed in relation to gestational age, birth weight, and sex. Linear regression models were applied to assess associations, considering p-values < 0.05 as statistically significant. Results: After applying exclusion criteria, valid liver stiffness measurements were obtained in 208 cases with pSWE, 224 with 2D-SWE (convex probe), and 222 with 2D-SWE (linear probe). A statistically significant inverse association between liver stiffness and gestational age (p < 0.03) was observed across all techniques except for 2D-SWE with the linear probe. Only 2D-SWE with the convex probe showed a significant association with birth weight. No significant differences were observed based on neonatal sex. The 2D-SWE technique with the convex probe demonstrated significantly shorter examination times compared to pSWE (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Neonatal liver stiffness measured by pSWE and 2D-SWE with a convex probe shows an inverse correlation with gestational age, potentially reflecting the structural and functional maturation of the liver. These techniques are safe, reliable, and provide useful information for distinguishing normal findings in preterm neonates from early hepatic pathology. The values obtained represent a valuable reference for clinical hepatic assessment in the neonatal period. Full article

Cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) rupture is a common orthopedic disorder in dogs, leading to stifle joint instability and progressive osteoarthritis. This study aimed to develop and biomechanically evaluate a novel intra-articular reconstruction system designed to mimic the natural ligament and restore joint stability following CrCL excision. The system consisted of a 3D-printed thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) graft, cerclage wire, and H-button fixation. Fourteen pelvic limbs from mature mixed-breed cadaveric dogs were used. The inclination angle, dimensions, volume, tensile strength, and elongation of the native CrCL were measured. Seven CrCL-deficient stifles were reconstructed using the proposed system and tested biomechanically. The native CrCL showed a significantly higher tensile strength than the TPU graft; however, the TPU demonstrated a greater flexibility. The reconstruction system successfully stabilized the joint and provided repeatable fixation. Significant correlations were found between CrCL volume and both age and body weight. These findings support the mechanical suitability of the proposed system for ex vivo stifle stabilization and highlight the potential of 3D-printed TPU in ligament reconstruction. Further in vivo studies are recommended to assess long-term performance, including implant integration, tissue remodeling, and clinical outcomes. Full article

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is strongly influenced by miRNAs as well as the circadian system. Methods: High-throughput sequencing of miRNAs expressed in the rat colon during 24 h light (L)/dark (D) cycle was performed to identify rhythmically expressed miRNAs. The role of miR-150-5p in CRC progression was analyzed in DLD1 cell line and human CRC tissues. Results: Nearly 10% of mature miRNAs showed a daily rhythm in expression. A peak of miRNAs’ levels was in most cases observed during the first half of the D phase of the LD cycle. The highest amplitude was detected in expression of miR-150-5p and miR-142-3p. In the L phase of the LD cycle, the maximum in miR-30d-5p expression was detected. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed that genes interfering with miRNAs with peak expression during the D phase influence apoptosis, angiogenesis, the immune system, and EGF and TGF-beta signaling. Rhythm in miR-150-5p, miR-142-3p, and miR-30d-5p expression was confirmed by real-time PCR. Oncogenes bcl2 and myb and clock gene cry1 were identified as miR-150-5p targets. miR-150-5p administration promoted camptothecin-induced apoptosis. Expression of myb showed a rhythmic profile in DLD1 cells with inverted acrophase with respect to miR-150-5p. miR-150-5p was decreased in cancer compared to adjacent tissue in CRC patients. Decrease in miR-150-5p was age dependent. Older patients with lower expression of miR-150-5p and higher expression of cry1 showed worse survival in comparison with younger patients. Conclusions: miRNA signaling differs between the L and D phases of the LD cycle. miR-150-5p, targeting myb, bcl2, and cry1, can influence CRC progression in a phase-dependent manner. Full article

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have been reshaping maternal, fetal, neonatal, and reproductive healthcare by enhancing risk prediction, diagnostic accuracy, and operational efficiency across the perinatal continuum. However, no comprehensive synthesis has yet been published. Objective: To conduct a scoping review of reviews of AI/ML applications spanning reproductive, prenatal, postpartum, neonatal, and early child-development care. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus through April 2025. Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using AMSTAR 2 for systematic reviews, ROBIS for bias assessment, SANRA for narrative reviews, and JBI guidance for scoping reviews. Results: Thirty-nine reviews met our inclusion criteria. In preconception and fertility treatment, convolutional neural network-based platforms can identify viable embryos and key sperm parameters with over 90 percent accuracy, and machine-learning models can personalize follicle-stimulating hormone regimens to boost mature oocyte yield while reducing overall medication use. Digital sexual-health chatbots have enhanced patient education, pre-exposure prophylaxis adherence, and safer sexual behaviors, although data-privacy safeguards and bias mitigation remain priorities. During pregnancy, advanced deep-learning models can segment fetal anatomy on ultrasound images with more than 90 percent overlap compared to expert annotations and can detect anomalies with sensitivity exceeding 93 percent. Predictive biometric tools can estimate gestational age within one week with accuracy and fetal weight within approximately 190 g. In the postpartum period, AI-driven decision-support systems and conversational agents can facilitate early screening for depression and can guide follow-up care. Wearable sensors enable remote monitoring of maternal blood pressure and heart rate to support timely clinical intervention. Within neonatal care, the Heart Rate Observation (HeRO) system has reduced mortality among very low-birth-weight infants by roughly 20 percent, and additional AI models can predict neonatal sepsis, retinopathy of prematurity, and necrotizing enterocolitis with area-under-the-curve values above 0.80. From an operational standpoint, automated ultrasound workflows deliver biometric measurements at about 14 milliseconds per frame, and dynamic scheduling in IVF laboratories lowers staff workload and per-cycle costs. Home-monitoring platforms for pregnant women are associated with 7–11 percent reductions in maternal mortality and preeclampsia incidence. Despite these advances, most evidence derives from retrospective, single-center studies with limited external validation. Low-resource settings, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, remain under-represented, and few AI solutions are fully embedded in electronic health records. Conclusions: AI holds transformative promise for perinatal care but will require prospective multicenter validation, equity-centered design, robust governance, transparent fairness audits, and seamless electronic health record integration to translate these innovations into routine practice and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been extensively studied through neuroimaging, primarily focusing on grey matter and more in children than in adults. Studies in children and adolescents fail to capture changes that may dampen with age, thus leaving only changes specific to ASD. While grey matter has been the primary focus, white matter (WM) may be more specific in identifying the particular biological signature of the neurodiversity of ASD. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is the more appropriate tool to investigate WM in ASD. Despite being introduced in 1994, its application to ASD research began in 2001. Studies employing DTI identify altered fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity, and radial diffusivity (RD) in individuals with ASD compared to typically developing (TD) individuals. Methods: We systematically reviewed literature on 21 May 2025 on PubMed using the following strategy: (“autism spectrum”[ti] OR autistic[ti] OR ASD[ti] OR “high-functioning autism” OR Asperger*[ti] OR Rett*[ti]) AND (DTI[ti] OR “diffusion tensor”[ti] OR multimodal[ti] OR “white matter”[ti] OR tractograph*[ti]). Our search yielded 239 results, of which 26 were adult human studies and eligible. Results: Analysing the evidence, we obtained regionally diverse WM alterations in adult ASD, specifically in FA, MD, RD, axial diffusivity and kurtosis, neurite density, and orientation dispersion index, compared to TD individuals, mostly in frontal and interhemispheric tracts, association fibres, and subcortical projection pathways. These alterations were less prominent than those of children and adolescents, indicating that individuals with ASD may improve during brain maturation. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that white matter alterations in adults with ASD are regionally diverse but generally less pronounced than in younger populations. This may indicate a potential improvement or adaptation of brain structure during maturation. Further research is needed to clarify the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these changes and their implications for clinical outcomes. Full article