Search Results (3,476)

A modular strategy for the molecular design of silicone-based antifoaming agents was developed by precisely controlling the architecture of poly (methylhydrosiloxane) (PMHS). Sixteen PMHS variants were synthesized by systematically varying the siloxane chain length (L1–L4), backbone composition (D₃T₁ vs. D₃₀T₁), and terminal group chemistry (H- vs. M-type). These structural modifications resulted in a broad range of Si-H functionalities, which were quantitatively analyzed and correlated with defoaming performance. The PMHS matrices were integrated with high-viscosity PDMS, a nonionic surfactant, and covalently grafted fumed silica—which was chemically matched to each PMHS backbone—to construct formulation-specific defoaming systems with enhanced interfacial compatibility and colloidal stability. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization via FT-IR, ¹H NMR, GPC, TGA, and surface tension analysis revealed a nonmonotonic relationship between Si-H content and defoaming efficiency. Formulations containing 0.1–0.3 wt% Si-H achieved peak performance, with suppression efficiencies up to 96.6% and surface tensions as low as 18.9 mN/m. Deviations from this optimal range impaired performance due to interfacial over-reactivity or reduced mobility. Furthermore, thermal stability and molecular weight distribution were found to be governed by repeat unit architecture and terminal group selection. Compared with conventional EO/PO-modified commercial defoamers, the PMHS-based systems exhibited markedly improved suppression durability and formulation stability in high-viscosity environments. These results establish a predictive structure–property framework for tailoring antifoaming agents and highlight PMHS-based formulations as advanced foam suppressors with improved functionality. This study provides actionable design criteria for high-performance silicone materials with strong potential for application in thermally and mechanically demanding environments such as coating, bioprocessing, and polymer manufacturing. Full article

Plant genetics and chemotaxonomic analysis are considered key parameters in understanding evolution, plant diversity and adaptation. Korean Peninsula has a unique biogeographical landscape that supports various aromatic plant species, each with considerable ecological, ethnobotanical, and pharmacological significance. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the chemotaxonomic traits, biological activities, phylogenetic relationships and potential applications of Korean aromatic plants, highlighting their significance in more accurate identification. Chemotaxonomic investigations employing techniques such as gas chromatography mass spectrometry, high-performance liquid chromatography, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy have enabled the identification of essential oils and specialized metabolites that serve as valuable taxonomic and diagnostic markers. These chemical traits play essential roles in species delimitation and in clarifying interspecific variation. The biological activities of selected taxa are reviewed, with emphasis on antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic effects, supported by bioassay-guided fractionation and compound isolation. In parallel, recent advances in phylogenetic reconstruction employing DNA barcoding, internal transcribed spacer regions, and chloroplast genes such as rbcL and matK are examined for their role in clarifying taxonomic uncertainties and inferring evolutionary lineages. Overall, the search period was from year 2001 to 2025 and total of 268 records were included in the study. By integrating phytochemical profiling, pharmacological evidence, and molecular systematics, this review highlights the multifaceted significance of Korean endemic aromatic plants. The conclusion highlights the importance of multidisciplinary approaches including metabolomics and phylogenomics in advancing our understanding of species diversity, evolutionary adaptation, and potential applications. Future research directions are proposed to support conservation efforts. Full article

Systematic reviews are a cornerstone of evidence-based research, providing comprehensive summaries of existing studies to answer specific research questions. This article offers a detailed guide to conducting high-quality systematic reviews in biology, health and social sciences. It outlines key steps, including developing and registering a protocol, designing comprehensive search strategies, and selecting studies through a screening process. The article emphasizes the importance of accurate data extraction and the use of validated tools to assess the risk of bias across different study designs. Both meta-analysis (quantitative approach) and narrative synthesis (qualitative approach) are discussed in detail. The guide also highlights the use of frameworks, such as GRADE, to assess the certainty of evidence and provides recommendations for clear and transparent reporting in line with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. This paper aims to adapt and translate evidence-based review principles, commonly applied in clinical research, into the context of biological sciences. By highlighting domain-specific methodologies, challenges, and resources, we provide tailored guidance for researchers in ecology, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, and related fields in order to conduct transparent and reproducible evidence syntheses. Full article

Chiral liquid chromatography (cLC) using chiral stationary phases (CSPs) has become a crucial technique for separating enantiomers. Understanding enantiomeric discrimination is essential for improving chromatographic conditions and elucidating chiral molecular recognition; the computational methods are extremely helpful for this. To assess the relevance of the association of these two approaches and to analyze the current trends, in this review, a systematic analysis of the scientific literature was performed, covering recently published works (from 2015 to January 2025) on enantioseparation by cLC using CSPs and computational studies. CSPs based on polysaccharides and Pirkle-type were the most described (accounting for 52% and 14% of the studies, respectively). Regarding the computational methods, molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) were the most reported (accounting for 50% and 25% of the studies, respectively). In the articles surveyed, a significant growth in research concerning both cLC enantioseparation and computational studies is evident, emphasizing the benefit of the synergy between these two approaches. Full article

The scalability and processability of high-performance membranes remain significant challenges in membrane technology. This work focuses on optimizing the pilot-scale production of patterned polysulfone (PSf) ultrafiltration membranes using the spray-modified non-solvent-induced phase separation (s-NIPS) method on a roll-to-roll pilot line. s-NIPS has already been studied extensively at lab-scale to prepare patterned membranes for various applications including membrane bioreactors (MBR), reverse osmosis (RO) and forward osmosis (FO). Although studied at the lab scale, membranes prepared at a larger scale can significantly differ in performance; therefore, phase inversion parameters, including polymer concentration, molecular weight, and additive type (i.e., polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polyvinylpyrolidine (PVP)) and concentration, were systematically varied when casting on a roll-to-roll, 12″ wide pilot line to identify optimal conditions for achieving defect-free, high-performance, patterned PSf membranes. The membranes were characterized for their pure water permeance, BSA rejection, casting solution viscosities, and resulting morphology. s-NIPS patterned membranes exhibit 150–350% increase in water flux as compared to their reference flat membrane, thanks to very high pattern heights up to 825 µm and formation of finger-like macrovoids. This work bridges the gap between lab-scale and pilot-scale membrane preparation, while proposing an upscaled membrane with great potential for use in water treatment. Full article

Protected areas play a key role in containing and protecting most of the endemic biodiversity of megadiverse places, underscoring their importance as custodians of biological richness. Colombia, one of the most species-rich countries, also has one of the highest rates of deforestation globally. The Colombian National Natural Parks (NNPs) system is one of the mechanisms for protecting natural landscape ecosystems and biota. Based on the role of butterflies as bioindicators in biodiversity mapping, we compiled records of endemic butterfly species from entomological collections and the literature to assess the importance of protected areas in endemic species conservation. The NNPs harbor records of 127 endemic species, representing 65% of the 196 endemic butterfly species recorded in Colombia. Most of these endemic species, 93 species, have been recorded in only one NNP, here defined as “unique” species. These species are mainly distributed along the Andes Cordillera. Among all the NNPs, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta holds the highest number of both total and unique endemic species. Extrapolating this pattern to the broader Andean Biota supports the idea that protected areas play a key role in containing and protecting much of Northern South American endemic biodiversity, underscoring their importance as custodians of biological richness. Full article

Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents a major global health challenge characterized by complex adipose–liver interactions mediated by adipokines and hepatokines. Despite rapid field evolution, a comprehensive understanding of research trends and translational advances remains fragmented. This study systematically maps the scientific landscape through bibliometric analysis, identifying emerging domains and future clinical translation directions. Methods: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 1002 publications from 2004 to 2025 was performed using thematic mapping, temporal trend evaluation, and network analysis. Analysis included geographical and institutional distributions, thematic cluster identification, and research paradigm evolution assessment, focusing specifically on adipokine–hepatokine signaling mechanisms and clinical implications. Results: The United States and China are at the forefront of research output, whereas European institutions significantly contribute to mechanistic discoveries. The thematic map analysis reveals the motor/basic themes residing at the heart of the field, such as insulin resistance, fatty liver, metabolic syndrome, steatosis, fetuin-A, and other related factors that drive innovation. Basic clusters include metabolic foundations (obesity, adipose tissue, FGF21) and adipokine-centered subjects (adiponectin, leptin, NASH). New themes focus on inflammation, oxidative stress, gut microbiota, lipid metabolism, and hepatic stellate cells. Niche areas show targeted fronts such as exercise therapies, pediatric/novel adipokines (chemerin, vaspin, omentin-1), and advanced molecular processes that focus on AMPK and endoplasmic-reticulum stress. Temporal analysis shows a shift from single liver studies to whole models that include the gut microbiota, mitochondrial dysfunction, and interactions between other metabolic systems. The network analysis identifies nine major clusters: cardiovascular–metabolic links, adipokine–inflammatory pathways, hepatokine control, and new therapeutic domains such as microbiome interventions and cellular stress responses. Conclusions: In summary, this study delineates current trends and emerging areas within the field and elucidates connections between mechanistic research and clinical translation to provide guidance for future research and development in this rapidly evolving area. Full article

The Pelargonium genus, encompassing over 280 species, remains markedly underexplored despite extensive traditional use for respiratory, gastrointestinal, and dermatological disorders. This review of aqueous, alcoholic, and hydroalcoholic extracts reveals critical research gaps: only 10 species have undergone chemical characterization, while 17 have been evaluated for biological activities. Phytochemical analysis identified 252 unique molecules across all studies, with flavonoids emerging as the predominant class (n = 108). Glycosylated derivatives demonstrated superior bioactivity profiles compared to non-glycosylated analogs. Phenolic acids (n = 43) and coumarins (n = 31) represented additional major classes. Experimental studies primarily documented antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects, with emerging evidence for antidiabetic, anticancer, and hepatoprotective activities. However, methodological heterogeneity across studies limits comparative analysis and comprehensive understanding. In silico target prediction analysis was performed on 197 high-confidence molecular structures. Glycosylated flavonols, anthocyanidins, flavones, and coumarins showed strong predicted interactions with key inflammatory targets (ALOX15, ALOX5, PTGER4, and NOS2) and metabolic regulators (GSK3A and PI4KB), providing mechanistic support for observed therapeutic effects and suggesting potential applications in chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases. These findings underscore the substantial therapeutic potential of underexplored Pelargonium species and advocate for systematic research employing untargeted metabolomics, standardized bioassays, and compound-specific mechanistic validation to fully unlock the pharmacological potential of this diverse genus. Full article

Background/Objectives: Moschus (musk) has long been used in traditional Tibetan medicine to prevent and treat epidemic febrile illnesses. However, its antiviral mechanisms remain poorly understood. Given the urgent need for effective treatments against viral respiratory tract infections (VRTIs), this study aimed to systematically investigate the molecular targets and pharmacological pathways through which Moschus may exert therapeutic effects. Methods: Based on the identification of bioactive compounds with favorable pharmacokinetics, we applied integrated network pharmacology and multi-omics analyses to systematically identify key therapeutic targets involved in VRTIs. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and immune infiltration further revealed strong associations with multiple immune cell subsets, reflecting their pivotal roles in immunomodulatory mechanisms during viral infections. Molecular docking confirmed the strong binding affinities between Moschus compounds and these key targets. Results: Notably, testosterone exhibited the strongest and most consistent binding across key targets, suggesting its potential as a pivotal bioactive compound. Importantly, the antiviral effects of Moschus may be mediated in part by the downregulation of the key genes MCL1, MAPK3, and CDK2, which are involved in the regulation of viral replication, apoptosis, and host immune responses. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive mechanistic framework supporting the multi-target antiviral potential of Moschus, offering a scientific basis for its further development as a therapeutic agent against VRTIs. Full article

Background/Objectives: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the deadliest solid tumors, with a five-year overall survival rate below 10%. While the introduction of multi-agent chemotherapy regimens has improved outcomes marginally, most patients with advanced disease continue to have limited therapeutic options. Molecular profiling has uncovered actionable genomic alterations in select subgroups of PDAC, yet the clinical impact of targeted therapies remains modest. This review aims to provide a clinically oriented synthesis of emerging molecular targets in PDAC, their therapeutic relevance, and practical considerations for biomarker testing, including current FDA and EMA indications. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using data from PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and international guidelines (NCCN, ESMO, ASCO). The selection focused on evidence published between 2020 and 2025, highlighting molecularly defined PDAC subsets and the current status of targeted therapies. Results: Actionable genomic alterations in PDAC include KRAS G12C mutations, BRCA1/2 and PALB2-associated homologous recombination deficiency, MSI-H/dMMR status, and rare gene fusions involving NTRK, RET, and NRG1. While only a minority of patients are eligible for targeted treatments, early-phase trials and real-world data have shown promising results in these subgroups. Testing molecular profiling is increasingly standard in advanced PDAC. Conclusions: Despite the rarity of targetable mutations, systematic molecular profiling is critical in advanced PDAC to guide off-label therapy or clinical trial enrollment. A practical framework for identifying and acting on molecular targets is essential to bridge the gap between precision oncology and clinical management. Full article

Swertiamarin (SW), a natural iridoid glycoside primarily isolated from the genus Swertia, Gentianaceae family, has been extensively utilized in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Tibetan medicine, for treating fever, diabetes, liver disorders, and inflammatory conditions. Pharmacokinetic studies reveal that SW exhibits rapid absorption but demonstrates low oral bioavailability due to the first-pass effect. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated that SW possesses a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, and neuroprotective activities. Our analysis demonstrates that SW exerts remarkable therapeutic potential across multiple pathological conditions through coordinated modulation of key signaling cascades, including Nrf2/HO-1, NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and PPAR pathways. This comprehensive review systematically consolidates current knowledge on SW’s pharmacokinetic characteristics, toxicity, diverse biological activities, and underlying molecular mechanisms based on extensive preclinical evidence, establishing a scientific foundation for future drug development strategies and potential clinical applications of the potential natural lead compound. Full article

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) cultivation is of great economic importance in Peru. Tacna stands out as its main producer. However, the presence of phytopathogenic fungi represents a challenge for its production. This study aimed to characterize both the morphological and molecular levels of the causal agent of crown and root rot in a crop field in the Camilaca district, Candarave, Tacna. To this end, systematic sampling was carried out using the five-gold method, collecting plants with typical symptoms. Fungi were isolated from diseased roots and characterized using macroscopic and microscopic morphological analysis as well as sequencing and multilocus phylogenetic analysis (ITS, 28S, HIS3, TEF1, TUB2). In addition, pathogenicity tests were performed on healthy plants to confirm the infectivity of the isolates. The results demonstrated that root rot was caused by a complex of phytopathogenic fungi through phylogenetic analysis of Dactylonectria torresensis, Fusarium oxysporum, F. iranicum, and F. redolens. These findings represent the first report of these species as causal agents of oregano root rot in Peru, highlighting the need for integrated management strategies that reduce the economic impact of these diseases and contribute to the sustainability of the crop in key producing regions such as Tacna. Full article

The aim of this study was to isolate and identify lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from a traditional fermented beverage, Boza, and to conduct an in-depth study on their fermentation and probiotic properties. The fermentation (acid production rate, acid tolerance, salt tolerance, amino acid decarboxylase activity) and probiotic properties (gastrointestinal tolerance, bile salt tolerance, hydrophobicity, self-aggregation, drug resistance, bacteriostatic properties) of the 16 isolated LAB were systematically analyzed by morphological, physiological, and biochemical tests and 16S rDNA molecular biology. This analysis utilized principal component analysis (PCA) to comprehensively evaluate the biological properties of the strains. The identified LAB included Limosilactobacillus fermentum (9 strains), Levilactobacillus brevis (2 strains), Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (2 strains), and Lactobacillus helveticus (3 strains). These strains showed strong environmental adaptation at different pH (3.5) and temperature (45 °C), with different gastrointestinal colonization, tolerance, and antioxidant properties. All the strains did not show hemolytic activity and were inhibitory to Staphylococcus aureus, and showed resistance to kanamycin, gentamicin, vancomycin, and streptomycin. Based on the integrated scoring of biological properties by principal component analysis, Limosilactobacillus fermentum S4 and S6 and Levilactobacillus brevis S5 had excellent fermentation properties and tolerance and could be used as potential functional microbial resources. Full article

Background: The metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents an escalating global health concern, with effective treatments still lacking. Given its complex pathogenesis, multi-targeted strategies are highly desirable. Methods: This study reports the isolation of four flavone C-glycosides (FCGs) from Dianthus superbus L. and explores their potential in treating MASLD. The bioactivity and underlying mechanisms of FCGs were systematically evaluated by integrating network pharmacology, molecular docking, and zebrafish model validation. Results: Network pharmacology analysis revealed that FCGs may modulate multiple MASLD-related pathways, including lipid metabolism, insulin signaling, inflammation, and apoptosis. Molecular docking further confirmed strong binding affinities between FCGs and key protein targets involved in these pathways. In the zebrafish model of MASLD induced by egg yolk powder, FCGs administration markedly attenuated obesity, hepatic lipid accumulation, and liver tissue damage. Furthermore, FCGs improved lipid metabolism and restored locomotor function. Molecular analyses confirmed that FCGs upregulated PPARγ expression to promote lipid metabolism, restored insulin signaling by enhancing INSR, PI3K, and AKT expression, and suppressed inflammation by downregulating TNF, IL-6 and NF-κB. Additionally, FCGs inhibited hepatocyte apoptosis by elevating the BCL-2/BAX ratio. Conclusions: These findings highlight the multi-pathway regulatory effects of FCGs in MASLD, underscoring its potential as a novel therapeutic candidate for further preclinical development. Full article

Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, imposes growing clinical and socioeconomic burdens worldwide. Despite landmark discoveries in dopamine biology and α-synuclein pathology, translating mechanistic insights into effective, personalized interventions remains elusive. Recent advances in molecular profiling, neuroimaging, and computational modeling have broadened the understanding of PD as a multifactorial systems disorder rather than a purely dopaminergic condition. However, critical gaps persist in diagnostic precision, biomarker standardization, and the translation of bench side findings into clinically meaningful therapies. This review critically examines the current landscape of PD research, identifying conceptual blind spots and methodological shortfalls across pathophysiology, clinical evaluation, trial design, and translational readiness. By synthesizing evidence from molecular neuroscience, data science, and global health, the review proposes strategic directions to recalibrate the research agenda toward precision neurology. Here I highlight the urgent need for interdisciplinary, globally inclusive, and biomarker-driven frameworks to overcome the fragmented progression of PD research. Grounded in the Accelerating Medicines Partnership-Parkinson’s Disease (AMP-PD) and the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), this review maps shared biomarkers, open data, and patient-driven tools to faster personalized treatment. In doing so, it offers actionable insights for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers working at the intersection of biology, technology, and healthcare delivery. As the field pivots from symptomatic relief to disease modification, the road forward must be cohesive, collaborative, and rigorously translational, ensuring that laboratory discoveries systematically progress to clinical application. Full article