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17 pages, 1503 KB  
Article
Disease-Group-Specific Antimicrobial Use Patterns and Farm-Level Stewardship Features in Large-Scale Hungarian Swine Herds: A Multi-Farm Survey
by Ádám Kerek, László Gombos, Marietta Máté and László Ózsvári
Animals 2026, 16(10), 1570; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101570 - 21 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Farm-level antimicrobial stewardship in swine production requires indication-specific knowledge of treatment patterns and the herd-level features associated with them. Methods: We analyzed questionnaire-based data collected in 2015 from 13 Hungarian swine farms covering 15,725 sows and their progeny. The survey [...] Read more.
Background: Farm-level antimicrobial stewardship in swine production requires indication-specific knowledge of treatment patterns and the herd-level features associated with them. Methods: We analyzed questionnaire-based data collected in 2015 from 13 Hungarian swine farms covering 15,725 sows and their progeny. The survey captured production indicators, pathogen occurrence, vaccination, resistance-testing practices, drug costs, and disease-group-specific antimicrobial use. As a separate, non-mergeable descriptive temporal comparator, we also considered independent digital farm-monitoring data from three large-scale swine herds from 2022 to 2024. Results: The most frequently reported pathogens were Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (13/13 farms), Lawsonia intracellularis (12/13), Escherichia coli (12/13), swine influenza virus (11/13), and Streptococcus suis (10/13). S. suis ranked as the leading damaging pathogen on 69% of farms. Among farms with antibiotic cost data (9/13), antibiotics accounted for a mean of 31.8% of veterinary drug expenditures. Among farms with treatment-by-indication data (8/13), the highest relative frequency of reported treatment events was linked to porcine respiratory disease complex, where doxycycline represented 38% of reported PRDC treatment events. Colistin dominated E. coli-associated diarrhea control, whereas beta-lactams were central for S. suis-related disease. In the 2022–2024 comparator dataset, enteric and respiratory disorders and arthritis remained the main recorded health problems, but corrected antimicrobial use was markedly lower in the later dataset. Conclusions: Antimicrobial use showed clear disease-group-specific patterns, supporting syndrome-focused stewardship rather than generic reduction targets. Full article
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13 pages, 1767 KB  
Article
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Conopomorpha sinensis (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) Sample from Taiwan
by Yu-Yun Kuo, Tai-Chuan Wang, Pin-Chang Chen, JenYu Chang and Yu-Shin Nai
Genes 2026, 17(5), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17050594 - 21 May 2026
Abstract
Background: The litchi fruit borer, Conopomorpha sinensis (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), is a devastating pest affecting litchi and longan production across Asia. Although a reference mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) has been published, its utility is limited by the lack of precise geographical data and raw sequencing [...] Read more.
Background: The litchi fruit borer, Conopomorpha sinensis (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), is a devastating pest affecting litchi and longan production across Asia. Although a reference mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) has been published, its utility is limited by the lack of precise geographical data and raw sequencing data. Methods: In this study, we sequenced and characterized the complete mitogenome of C. sinensis collected from Taiwan using a hybrid assembly of Illumina and Oxford Nanopore technologies. Results: The assembled mitogenome is 17,301 bp in length with a mean sequencing depth of 19,155-fold, comprising 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and an AT-rich control region. Notably, we identified a rare tRNA gene rearrangement (trnR-trnA-trnN-trnS1-trnE-trnF) that deviates from the ancestral lepidopteran ditrysian pattern. Comparative analysis revealed a 94.65% overall sequence identity with the reference mitogenome, though the PCGs remained highly conserved at 99.35%. Variant analysis demonstrated that this divergence is predominantly driven by structural variations (228 indels) rather than nucleotide substitutions (2 SNPs) across the entire mitogenome; furthermore, 94.7% of the indels were identified in the control region and intergenic spacers. Subtle differences in codon usage were also observed in the ND6 start codon (ATT vs. ATA) and COX1 stop codon (TAA vs. T). Phylogenetic and molecular clock analyses robustly clustered the Taiwan specimen within the C. sinensis clade. Molecular dating estimates that the Conopomorpha lineage originated during the Late Cretaceous (~77.23 Ma). Notably, the divergence between the Taiwan specimen and the reference lineage was estimated to be negligible (<0.01 Ma) within the protein-coding regions, demonstrating a high degree of purifying selection that maintains coding-sequence stability across geographically distinct specimens, even as substantial variation accumulates in non-coding genomic regions. Conclusions: These findings provide high-resolution genomic resources and a temporal framework for the evolutionary study of Gracillariidae, offering foundational tools for targeted pest management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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16 pages, 325 KB  
Article
An Integrated Care Pathway for Pediatric Oral Health: Baseline Multicenter Analysis of Dental Caries, Malocclusions, and Oral Hygiene in Three Italian Regions
by Erika Roncarati, Dorina Lauritano, Saverio Ceraulo, Luigi Baggi, Roberta Calcaterra, Roberto Gatto, Silvia Caruso, Stefano Cianetti, Guido Lombardo, Gianmaria Fabrizio Ferrazzano and Francesco Carinci
Children 2026, 13(5), 714; https://doi.org/10.3390/children13050714 - 21 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Dental caries remain a major public health issue among Italian children, with prevalence exceeding 60% in specific subgroups and marked socioeconomic gradients. Objectives: This multicenter study aimed to describe baseline caries experience, malocclusions, and oral hygiene status in pediatric populations residing in [...] Read more.
Background: Dental caries remain a major public health issue among Italian children, with prevalence exceeding 60% in specific subgroups and marked socioeconomic gradients. Objectives: This multicenter study aimed to describe baseline caries experience, malocclusions, and oral hygiene status in pediatric populations residing in three Italian regions and to develop and preliminarily evaluate the feasibility of an integrated care pathway for the prevention and management of caries and malocclusions. Materials and Methods: Within the CCM 2024 program (ID 10), a cross-sectional baseline assessment was conducted on 795 children aged 6–11 years, examined in school settings and via mobile dental units. Caries experience was assessed using the dmft/DMFT indices and International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) criteria. Malocclusions were evaluated using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). Oral hygiene was assessed through standardized clinical indices. The proposed care pathway comprises three tiers: (1) universal, school-based oral health education; (2) targeted clinical preventive and interceptive interventions; and (3) telemedicine/AI-supported follow-up for high-risk children. Descriptive and multivariable statistical analyses were performed. Results: At baseline, overall caries burden was low. No statistically significant differences in dmft/DMFT were observed between males and females. A non-significant trend toward higher caries indices was found among children with a positive breastfeeding history. By contrast, oral hygiene level was strongly associated with caries indices: children with insufficient hygiene had the highest dmft/DMFT, those with moderate hygiene showed intermediate values, and those with optimal hygiene presented the lowest caries experience. In multivariable models, oral hygiene emerged as the main independent predictor of dmft/DMFT. Conclusions: In this low-caries cohort, oral hygiene was confirmed as the principal modifiable determinant of caries risk. A tiered, school- and community-based care pathway focused on hygiene promotion, early screening, and minimally invasive clinical interventions appears feasible at baseline and may be scalable, with the aim of reducing the burden of caries and malocclusions and improving equity in pediatric oral health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Dentistry & Oral Medicine)
20 pages, 9606 KB  
Article
Fast Prediction Model of Infrared Signatures for Vacuum Rocket Plumes
by Youhong Yuan, Zetao Guo, Wenqiang Gao, Zengjie Zhou and Qinglin Niu
Aerospace 2026, 13(5), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace13050483 - 21 May 2026
Abstract
Infrared radiation spectra produced by vibration–rotation transitions in multicomponent gases within the vacuum plume of attitude and orbital control engines constitute crucial radiation sources for optical target identification and space maneuver recognition, and rapid prediction of these signatures is essential for real-time forecasting. [...] Read more.
Infrared radiation spectra produced by vibration–rotation transitions in multicomponent gases within the vacuum plume of attitude and orbital control engines constitute crucial radiation sources for optical target identification and space maneuver recognition, and rapid prediction of these signatures is essential for real-time forecasting. This study introduces an axisymmetric vacuum plume flow field model based on a simplified point-source approach that accommodates multicomponent combustion gases. Using the Maxwellian velocity distribution and a velocity–position angle algorithm, normalized number density, velocity, and temperature distributions are derived. A plume–freestream interaction model founded on noncentral fully elastic collision theory is incorporated, and overall plume properties are obtained via density-weighted averaging. Neglecting non-equilibrium radiation effects, the high-temperature gas absorption coefficient is calculated using a statistical narrowband model and radiative transfer is solved via the line-of-sight method. The model is validated against direct simulation Monte Carlo results for single-gas and MBB bipropellant plumes and confirmed using infrared spectral data in the 2.0–4.5 μm band. The proposed framework achieves 102–103-fold higher computational efficiency than conventional DSMC approaches. Freestream effects on plume diffusion and momentum exchange diminish with increasing altitude, as does the freestream velocity’s enhancement of radiation intensity, whereas greater plume expansion at higher altitudes increases overall radiation intensity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Astronautics & Space Science)
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16 pages, 1911 KB  
Article
COCH-Related Hearing Loss in a French Cohort: Novel Variants and Genotype–Phenotype Correlations
by Ralyath Balogoun, Margaux Serey-Gaut, Véronique Pingault, Isabelle Lemiere, Geneviève Lina-Granade, Geoffroy Delplancq, Anne Marie Guerrot, Annick Toutain, Delphine Dupin-Deguine, Marine Legendre, Estelle Colin, Natalie Loundon, Laurence Jonard and Sandrine Marlin
Genes 2026, 17(5), 588; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17050588 - 21 May 2026
Abstract
Objectives: To characterize heterozygous pathogenic COCH variants in a French cohort with non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NSHL) and assess genotype–phenotype correlations in autosomal dominant NSHL (DFNA9). Setting: National Reference Center for Genetic Hearing Loss, Necker–Enfants Malades Hospital, Paris, France. Methods: This retrospective observational [...] Read more.
Objectives: To characterize heterozygous pathogenic COCH variants in a French cohort with non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NSHL) and assess genotype–phenotype correlations in autosomal dominant NSHL (DFNA9). Setting: National Reference Center for Genetic Hearing Loss, Necker–Enfants Malades Hospital, Paris, France. Methods: This retrospective observational study included 69 individuals from 20 unrelated families diagnosed with DFNA9 (2005–2025). All individuals underwent clinical and audiological evaluations and genetic testing via targeted COCH Sanger sequencing or next-generation sequencing (NGS) panels. Variants were interpreted according to ACMG guidelines. Audiometric profiles and vestibular data were collected. Results: Seven known pathogenic COCH variants were found in ten families, and ten novel likely pathogenic variants in the others. Variants in vWFA domains were associated with early or late onset, progressive, bilateral and symmetrical hearing loss. Three variants (p.Gln410Arg, p.Ile450Val, p.Cys542Arg) were associated with congenital or prelingual onset, an atypical DFNA9 presentation. Variants in the LCCL domain were associated with later-onset hearing loss and more frequent vestibular dysfunction. Vestibular abnormalities were observed in about half of early-onset cases. Conclusions:COCH-related hearing loss is a rare cause of autosomal dominant NSHL, with only 20 families identified over two decades within the French network. This study expands the mutational spectrum of COCH by reporting ten novel variants and supports a domain-specific genotype–phenotype correlation. These findings improve the understanding of DFNA9 variability and have direct implications for clinical diagnosis, prognosis, and genetic counseling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Management and Therapy of Rare Diseases)
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16 pages, 3655 KB  
Article
A Novel Radiomics-Integrated Panel for Preoperative Stratification of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNETs)
by Abdallah Attia, Jihun Hamm, Mahmoud A. AbdAlnaeem, Zhengming Ding, Michael O’Rorke, Joseph Dillon, Mary Maluccio, Nicholas Skill and Kristen Limbach
Cancers 2026, 18(10), 1663; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18101663 - 21 May 2026
Abstract
Background. Preoperative risk stratification of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) is constrained by the unavailability of histologic grade before resection. We hypothesized that a panel of biologically informed CT-radiomic signatures, combined with patient-level Δ-radiomics referenced to the contralateral pancreas, would support preoperative discrimination of [...] Read more.
Background. Preoperative risk stratification of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) is constrained by the unavailability of histologic grade before resection. We hypothesized that a panel of biologically informed CT-radiomic signatures, combined with patient-level Δ-radiomics referenced to the contralateral pancreas, would support preoperative discrimination of progression and grade in a two-center pilot cohort. Methods. Forty-four patients with histologically confirmed PNET who underwent contrast-enhanced preoperative CT and surgical resection at two academic centers were analyzed. Lesion and contralateral non-tumor-bearing pancreatic parenchyma regions of interest were revised in 3D Slicer by a board-certified pancreatic surgeon and verified intraoperatively against surgical pathology. PyRadiomics v3.0 features were extracted with IBSI-concordant settings. Parametric ComBat batch correction was applied across the two centers (biological-covariate balance verified beforehand), and Δ-radiomic features (lesion combat–pancreas combat) were computed for the 106 intensity/texture primitives. We constructed a panel of biology-informed hybrid signatures partitioned into a preoperative lesion-only family (Family A; seven signatures) and a preoperative Δ-radiomic family (Family B; three signatures). Candidate features were filtered through correlation clustering, baseline-adjusted likelihood-ratio testing with Benjamini–Hochberg FDR control, and 100-bootstrap stability selection. Three predictor blocks were compared per target with three classifiers each (Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting): M0 (five-variable clinical baseline), MA (M0 + Family A), and MB (M0 + Family B). Discrimination was reported as AUC with bootstrap 95% CI; calibration was assessed using the Brier score and TRIPOD-recommended calibration intercept and slope; and cross-center generalization was evaluated with leave-one-center-out (LOCO) cross-validation. Univariable Cox regression with bootstrap and permutation inference was used for progression-free survival (PFS). Results. The cohort had 16 progression events and eight deaths (median follow-up was 38 months, IQR 14–59). Prespecified clinical–radiomic and Δ-radiomic signatures were associated with progression-free survival, including B2 = ΔBusyness × Ki-67 (HR 0.38, 95% CI 0.19–0.76, p = 0.006). For progression prediction, the Δ-radiomic model achieved the strongest discrimination, with a nested cross-validation AUC of 0.85 and leave-one-center-out AUC of 0.87. For higher-grade disease, radiomic models also demonstrated high discrimination, with AUCs up to 0.93. Conclusions. Radiomics-derived shape and texture features, especially when combined with clinical markers, may noninvasively identify aggressive PNET phenotypes and support preoperative risk stratification. Prospective validation in larger multicenter cohorts is warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Intelligent Scalpel: AI and the Future of Cancer Surgery)
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13 pages, 713 KB  
Article
Comparative Effectiveness of Cycling Versus Swapping Strategies After Advanced Therapy Failure in Axial Spondyloarthritis: A Real-World Retrospective Study
by Andrea Becciolini, Daniele Santilli, Giuditta Adorni, Brunella Bigliardo, Gianluca Lucchini and Alarico Ariani
Biologics 2026, 6(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/biologics6020015 - 21 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The therapeutic arsenal for axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) now includes multiple biologic and targeted synthetic DMARDs (b/tsDMARDs). Following the failure of an advanced therapy, clinicians may either cycle (switch to another drug with the same mechanism of action) or swap (switch to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The therapeutic arsenal for axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) now includes multiple biologic and targeted synthetic DMARDs (b/tsDMARDs). Following the failure of an advanced therapy, clinicians may either cycle (switch to another drug with the same mechanism of action) or swap (switch to a drug with a different mechanism). The optimal strategy remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the real-world effectiveness of cycling versus swapping in axSpA patients. Methods: This mono-centric, retrospective observational study included axSpA patients who failed ≥1 line of b/tsDMARD therapy. Subsequent treatment courses were classified as cycling (CG) or swapping (SG). Drug retention rates were compared using Kaplan–Meier analysis. A Cox proportional hazards model identified factors associated with treatment persistence. Results: We analyzed 156 patients (59 radiographic, 97 non-radiographic), corresponding to 343 treatment courses (CG: 213; SG: 130). Retention rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were 62.7%, 49.3%, and 39.2% (CG) versus 69.8%, 47.8%, and 31.8% (SG) (HR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.83–1.53; p = 0.442). In the multivariable model, only a more recent prescription year was associated with higher discontinuation risk (HR: 1.08 per year, 95% CI: 1.03–1.12; p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this real-world cohort, cycling and swapping strategies demonstrated comparable treatment persistence over three years following advanced therapy failure in axSpA. The choice of subsequent therapy should be individualized, as no strategy proved superior. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Monoclonal Antibodies)
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15 pages, 820 KB  
Systematic Review
Cannabidiol in Periodontal Therapy—Is There Hope or Just a Bias? A Systematic Review
by Ruxandra Ștefănescu, Amelia Tero-Vescan, Camil-Eugen Vari, Dragoș Sita and Bianca-Eugenia Ősz
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1163; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051163 - 20 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by dysbiotic biofilm formation, progressive destruction of periodontal tissues, and alveolar bone resorption. Conventional periodontal therapy primarily focuses on mechanical biofilm removal; however, adjunctive therapeutic approaches targeting host inflammatory responses and microbial activity have gained [...] Read more.
Background: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by dysbiotic biofilm formation, progressive destruction of periodontal tissues, and alveolar bone resorption. Conventional periodontal therapy primarily focuses on mechanical biofilm removal; however, adjunctive therapeutic approaches targeting host inflammatory responses and microbial activity have gained increasing attention. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid derived from Cannabis sativa, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties that may be relevant in periodontal disease management. Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the available evidence regarding the potential role of CBD in modulating periodontal inflammation, microbial biofilms, and bone resorption processes. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in Web of Science, Cochrane, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Studies investigating the effects of CBD on periodontal inflammation, oral biofilms, or bone remodeling were included. Both preclinical (in vitro and animal) and clinical studies were considered. Results: Evidence from experimental studies consistently demonstrated that CBD modulates inflammatory signaling pathways, including inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway and a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, but some results are contradictory. Animal studies reported reduced alveolar bone loss and decreased osteoclast activity following CBD administration. Several studies also demonstrated antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects of CBD against oral microorganisms. Conclusions: While preclinical evidence is promising, the current body of clinical data remains limited. Further well-designed randomized clinical trials are required to determine the efficacy, type of formulation, optimal dosing, and long-term safety of CBD as an adjunctive therapy in periodontal treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drug Discovery, Development and Delivery)
48 pages, 1144 KB  
Review
Strategies for Optimizing Genetic Mouse Models to Enhance the Understanding of Parkinson’s Disease
by Zhiqiang Shen, Linlin Ma and George D. Mellick
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051162 - 20 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) has become the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disorder worldwide. A valuable approach for unraveling the disease’s mechanisms and new therapeutic targets involves investigating the PD-causing genes identified in families exhibiting the Mendelian inheritance of parkinsonism. Methods: In this article, [...] Read more.
Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) has become the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disorder worldwide. A valuable approach for unraveling the disease’s mechanisms and new therapeutic targets involves investigating the PD-causing genes identified in families exhibiting the Mendelian inheritance of parkinsonism. Methods: In this article, we review how genetically modified mouse models can be employed to decipher the genetic architecture of PD. Results: We first discuss how well the human motor and non-motor symptoms of PD are currently evaluated in these PD mouse models, highlighting limitations. The pathogenic roles of five inherited PARK genes in PD are then extensively examined through their respective genetic mouse models in terms of phenotypic and cellular impacts. Furthermore, we discuss the strengths and weaknesses of existing transgenic mouse models and highlight significant accomplishments and advancements in this field from 2018 to the present. Conclusions: Building upon the current understanding of PD, we propose potential directions for enhancing genetic mouse models to further unveil the underlying mechanisms of PD and advance therapeutic research. Full article
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20 pages, 2288 KB  
Article
Immunogenicity of Theileria parva p67C Antigen Delivered via Adjuvanted CoPoP Liposomes in Cattle and Mice
by Harriet Oboge, Wei-Chiao Huang, Gabriel Aboge, Hannah Chege, Rose Ojuok, Naomi Chege, Joel Musando, Elizabeth Jane Poole, Samuel Mwangi Thumbi, Vishvanath Nene, Jonathan F. Lovell and Anna Lacasta
Vaccines 2026, 14(5), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14050459 - 20 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Effective vaccines are essential to overcome the limitations of livestock immunisation, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where scalable, thermostable, and easy-to-administer solutions are needed. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems, such as the Spontaneous Nanoliposome Antigen Particle (SNAP) technology using CoPoP liposomes, offer [...] Read more.
Background: Effective vaccines are essential to overcome the limitations of livestock immunisation, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where scalable, thermostable, and easy-to-administer solutions are needed. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems, such as the Spontaneous Nanoliposome Antigen Particle (SNAP) technology using CoPoP liposomes, offer a promising alternative for subunit vaccine development, although their performance in large animal species remains poorly characterised. CoPoP enables the rapid non-covalent multimeric display of His-tagged protein antigens combined with immunomodulators on liposomes incorporating cobalt porphyrin–phospholipid (CoPoP). Objective: To evaluate the immunogenicity of CoPoP-based liposomes delivering the Theileria parva p67C antigen in cattle and compare their performance in murine models. Methods: Cattle and mice were immunised with p67C formulated in CoPoP liposomes incorporating QS-21 and/or PHAD immunomodulators. Humoral and cellular responses were assessed. Parallel in vitro stimulation of bovine PBMC with Quil-A was used to investigate the mechanistic effects of saponins on bovine cells. Results: CoPoP liposome formulations did not improve p67C immunogenicity in cattle, with antibody responses at least two-fold lower than previously reported results and no detectable cellular responses. In contrast, the same platform induced up to 2000-fold higher antibody titres in mice. This disparity is likely driven by differences in antigen dose relative to body mass, tissue architecture, lymphatic accessibility, and innate immune signalling differences. PHAD-mediated TLR4 activation appeared less effective in cattle, whereas QS-21 induced a broader immune activation, likely through conserved inflammasome pathways. Despite limited immunogenicity, antigen presentation by CoPoP liposomes was preserved. Conclusions: SNAP-based CoPoP liposomes showed strong immunogenicity in mice but limited efficacy in cattle, highlighting the challenges of cross-species translation. Optimisation of antigen dose and adjuvant selection for the targeted species is required, with QS-21 representing a more promising candidate than the TLR4 agonist. The scalability and versatility of SNAP technology support its continued development for multivalent livestock vaccines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Vaccines)
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19 pages, 6383 KB  
Article
Establishment of a Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Method for the Detection of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. momordicae
by Xiongjuan Huang, Chengcheng Feng, Xixi Ju, Yuhui Huang, Xiaofeng Chen, Jiazuo Liang, Xinglian Liu, Zhendong Chen and Rukui Huang
J. Fungi 2026, 12(5), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12050378 - 20 May 2026
Abstract
Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) is an important vegetable and medicinal crop in tropical/subtropical regions, but suffers severe yield losses (even total failure) from Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. momordicae (Fom). There is no specific detection system [...] Read more.
Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) is an important vegetable and medicinal crop in tropical/subtropical regions, but suffers severe yield losses (even total failure) from Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. momordicae (Fom). There is no specific detection system available to detect this pathogen, and the methods used for other pathogens exhibit cross-reactivity and require specialized equipment. Therefore, this study developed a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for early Fom diagnosis. Initially, five sets of LAMP primers targeting the conserved regions of Fom, located within the region amplified by the FOMM-SPF/SPR PCR primers, were tested for specificity and sensitivity. In this experiment, FoM-1-2 showed optimal specificity, identifying 44 Fom strains without cross-reactivity with 10 other non-Fom species after a 60 min incubation at 64 °C. A visual readout based on a fluorescent dye (green for positive, pale orange for negative) eliminated the need for gel electrophoresis and specialized instruments. The LAMP assay was 100-fold more sensitive than conventional PCR (detection limit: 5.6 pg/μL vs. 560 pg/μL). In inoculated seedlings, LAMP detected Fom in basal stems at four days post-inoculation and top leaves at six days, whereas conventional PCR yielded faint bands in the basal stem after eight days. Moreover, LAMP enabled non-destructive detection. Thus, the present study developed a rapid, specific, and sensitive visual LAMP assay, supporting early diagnosis of bitter gourd Fusarium wilt. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fungi in Agriculture and Biotechnology)
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19 pages, 1933 KB  
Article
Development and Evaluation of “a PEGylated Anti-Tau ScFv for SPECT Imaging” in a Rat Model of Traumatic Brain Injury
by Esmat Sajjadi, Ehsan Sharif-Paghaleh, Mohammad Akrami, Koorosh Shahpasand, Ismaeil Haririan and Samane Maghsoudian
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(5), 626; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18050626 - 20 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects millions of individuals annually and remains a major global cause of neurological disability and death. Tau protein hyperphosphorylation, particularly in its cis conformation, is a major pathological hallmark contributing to neurodegeneration following TBI. Single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), [...] Read more.
Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects millions of individuals annually and remains a major global cause of neurological disability and death. Tau protein hyperphosphorylation, particularly in its cis conformation, is a major pathological hallmark contributing to neurodegeneration following TBI. Single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), despite their diagnostic potential, suffer from rapid renal clearance and short circulation half-lives, which limit their in vivo performance. PEGylation is therefore employed to prolong systemic circulation and improve the pharmacokinetic behavior of scFvs, enabling more effective brain retention and target engagement. Methods: In this study, we utilized a previously validated anti-cis p-tau scFv antibody fragment, radiolabeled with technetium-99m tricarbonyl (99mTc(CO)3), as a diagnostic tracer to detect tau pathology in TBI rat models. The antibody was conjugated with polyethylene glycol (PEG, 20 kDa); PEGylation efficiency was determined by quantifying the products on SDS-PAGE, and the products were subsequently radiolabeled. Results: Radiochemical purity (RCP) was ~95.4% for the non-PEGylated tracer (99mTc-AININ20) and ~92.7% for the PEGylated form (99mTc-AININ20-PEG), with both showing >90% radiochemical purity consistently. Upon systemic administration, PEGylated scFv was able to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and selectively accumulated in injured regions, as confirmed by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging. Both PEGylated and non-PEGylated scFv tracers showed significantly higher brain uptake in TBI rats compared to healthy controls (p < 0.0001). At 24 h, the PEGylated form exhibited a significantly higher brain signal than the non-PEGylated version (p < 0.0001), indicating improved tracer retention. Biodistribution analysis at 2 h post-injection showed significantly reduced renal clearance for the PEGylated tracer and increased hepatic uptake compared to the non-PEGylated form. At 24 h, in vivo imaging confirmed sustained brain retention, highlighting improved pharmacokinetics and imaging potential. Conclusions: These results support PEGylated scFv as a promising SPECT imaging agent for early detection of tauopathy in TBI, offering enhanced brain retention and improved pharmacokinetics. Full article
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25 pages, 1170 KB  
Article
Circulating Polyamines and Metabolic Changes Following a Mediterranean Diet with or Without Naltrexone/Bupropion in Breast Cancer Survivors: An Exploratory Secondary Analysis
by Won-Jun Choi, Yu Ra Lee, Yae-Ji Lee, Yu-Jin Kwon, A-Ra Cho, Jeongae Lee and Ji Won Lee
Nutrients 2026, 18(10), 1621; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18101621 - 20 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The Mediterranean diet is widely recognized for its cardiovascular and metabolic benefits, including weight reduction; however, the metabolic mechanisms underlying these effects remain incompletely understood. This study investigated whether changes in circulating polyamines are associated with metabolic improvements following a Mediterranean diet [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The Mediterranean diet is widely recognized for its cardiovascular and metabolic benefits, including weight reduction; however, the metabolic mechanisms underlying these effects remain incompletely understood. This study investigated whether changes in circulating polyamines are associated with metabolic improvements following a Mediterranean diet intervention, particularly in breast cancer survivors. Methods: This exploratory secondary analysis used stored paired serum samples from a previously reported 8-week controlled intervention conducted in three groups: Group A (breast cancer survivors following a Mediterranean diet alone, n = 21), Group B (breast cancer survivors following a Mediterranean diet combined with naltrexone/bupropion, n = 23), and Group C (non-cancer participants receiving the combined intervention, n = 28). Paired polyamine data were available for 16, 9, and 16 participants, respectively. Breast cancer survivors were randomized to Groups A and B, whereas Group C was enrolled as a non-randomized active comparison group. Serum metabolic profiles were analyzed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics, and nine polyamines were quantified using targeted analysis. An exploratory indirect-effect analysis examined associations between changes in serum polyamines and clinical outcomes, including body composition and lipid parameters. Results: Body weight, fat mass, and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) decreased significantly within all three groups after the 8-week intervention (median changes: −1.9 to −2.8 kg, −1.9 to −2.8 kg, and −0.3 to −0.7, respectively). LDL cholesterol decreased significantly only within the two groups receiving naltrexone/bupropion (median changes: −20.6 and −10.1 mg/dL). However, between-group differences in these changes were not statistically significant. N-acetylspermine increased nominally in all groups (p < 0.01), whereas spermine increased only in the Mediterranean diet alone group (p = 0.015). Conclusions: Mediterranean diet-related metabolic improvements were accompanied by changes in circulating polyamines. Spermine and N-acetylspermine may represent candidate metabolic response markers associated with nutritional and pharmacological interventions in breast cancer survivorship. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Metabolism)
20 pages, 5511 KB  
Article
Neural and Kinematic Characteristics of Reaching in Autistic Children During Movement Observation, Execution, and Synchronization: An fNIRS Study
by Wan-Chun Su, Daisuke Tsuzuki and Anjana Bhat
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(5), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16050540 - 20 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD, here on termed autistic children) exhibit motor difficulties in social and non-social contexts. Although previous studies have reported behavioral and neural characteristics, their relationship remains largely unexplored. The current study aimed to investigate the behavioral and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD, here on termed autistic children) exhibit motor difficulties in social and non-social contexts. Although previous studies have reported behavioral and neural characteristics, their relationship remains largely unexplored. The current study aimed to investigate the behavioral and neural mechanisms underlying interpersonal synchrony in autistic children using simultaneous kinematic and Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) recordings. Methods: Fifty-eight autistic or non-autistic children participated (mean age = 10.1, standard error = 0.3). fNIRS and an inertial measurement unit were used simultaneously to record the neural activity over frontotemporal and parietal regions and arm movement kinematics during a reach-to-clean-up task across three conditions: Watch—the child observed the tester clean up the blocks; Do—the child cleaned up the blocks independently; and Together—the child and tester cleaned up the blocks synchronously. Results: Behaviorally, autistic children demonstrated longer movement displacement, higher average velocity and acceleration, and a greater number of movement units. In terms of cortical activation, autistic children showed hypoactivation in the bilateral precentral gyrus and right inferior parietal lobe, along with hyperactivation in the right middle frontal gyrus, left inferior frontal gyrus, and left inferior parietal lobule. Correlations between kinematic and neural measures suggest that autistic children rely more on online/feedback control to compensate for reduced feedforward control. Conclusions: This study reveals unique compensatory strategies in autistic children, highlighting the connections between neural and behavioral characteristics. These findings have strong potential to inform the development of ASD screening tools and to guide targeted intervention strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Neuroscience)
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25 pages, 944 KB  
Article
Intersectional Disaggregated Data Practices and Leadership Interventions for Women in Higher Education: Evidence from Timor-Leste
by Lovelin I. Obi, Nnedinma Umeokafor, Helio Brites da Silva, Emilia Freitas Pereira and Emmanuel Daniel
Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16050804 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2026
Abstract
Timor-Leste, Asia’s youngest nation since its independence in 2002, has been making progress in its education sector. However, these gains have not translated into leadership representation as expected, with women remaining significantly underrepresented in senior academic and managerial roles in higher education. While [...] Read more.
Timor-Leste, Asia’s youngest nation since its independence in 2002, has been making progress in its education sector. However, these gains have not translated into leadership representation as expected, with women remaining significantly underrepresented in senior academic and managerial roles in higher education. While existing studies highlight the potential of intersectional disaggregated data to enhance the visibility of layered inequalities and inform more targeted leadership interventions, its application in Timor-Leste remains at an early stage. This study examines respondents’ perception of barriers and enablers influencing the collection and use of intersectional disaggregated data, and their association with perceived leadership interventions aimed at advancing women in higher education leadership in Timor-Leste. A survey design was employed, with questionnaires administered to purposively selected academic and non-academic staff across selected universities in Timor-Leste. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential techniques, including the Kruskal–Wallis test, and Spearman’s rank correlation (ρ). The findings suggest that respondents perceive key leadership interventions to include women’s leadership development programmes, mentorship, mental health support, and establishment of dedicated equality and diversity units Respondents also identified key enablers and barriers influencing the collection and use of intersectional disaggregated data, including staff training in ethical data practices, the use of mixed-method approaches, and the provision of privacy protections, alongside constraints related to data systems, capacity, and leadership support. Spearman’s analysis showed significant associations between perceived enablers and barriers influencing the collection and use of intersectional disaggregated data and perceived leadership interventions. This study contributes to the gender equity literature by providing empirical insights on perceived institutional conditions, reported barriers, enablers and perceived mechanisms through which intersectional data may inform leadership-related interventions in the context of Timor-Leste’s higher education system. Full article
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