Search Results (38,259)

Excess nutrients in wastewater pose significant environmental risks, highlighting the need for low-cost treatment strategies that enable their removal. This study evaluated the adsorption capacity of woodchip biochar, a widely available waste material, for phosphate (PO₄³⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and ammonium (NH₄⁺) in raw and secondary-treated wastewater, and compared the results against those obtained using synthetic solutions. Approach to equilibrium was reached quicker for NH₄⁺ (≈20 min) than for NO₃⁻and PO₄³⁻ (≈40 min), with NH₄⁺ removal reaching up to 80% at a dosage of 20 g/L. Nutrient adsorption kinetics were best described by the pseudo-second-order model for the anionic species (NO₃⁻and PO₄³⁻), while the pseudo-first-order model provided a better fit for the cationic species NH₄⁺. The Freundlich isotherm provided a good fit to the equilibrium data for all species, indicating the presence of heterogeneous adsorption sites. SEM–EDX and FTIR analyses confirmed nutrient adsorption onto the biochar surface and highlighted the involvement of carboxyl and hydroxyl functional groups, with FTIR showing the greatest spectral changes for NH₄⁺. Adsorption tests using secondary-treated wastewater showed high removal efficiencies (100% PO₄³⁻, 25.4% NO₃⁻, 89.5% NH₄⁺), whereas performance in raw wastewater was poor (maximum 32% NH₄⁺). Overall, woodchip biochar demonstrates strong potential as a tertiary treatment material, and its nutrient-saturated form may be reused as fertiliser, supporting nutrient recovery within a circular-economy framework. Full article

Background: The apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii causes serious diseases in animals and humans. The in vitro efficacy of the antimicrobial peptide mixture tyrothricin, composed of tyrocidines and gramicidins, against T. gondii tachyzoites was investigated. Methods: Effects against T. gondii were determined by monitoring inhibition of tachyzoite proliferation and electron microscopy, host cell and splenocyte toxicity was measured by Alamar blue assay, and early embryo toxicity was assessed using zebrafish embryos. Differential affinity chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and proteomics (DAC-MS-proteomics) was employed to identify potential molecular targets in T. gondii cell-free extracts. Results: Tyrothricin inhibited T. gondii proliferation at IC₅₀s < 100 nM, with tyrocidine A being the active and gramicidin A the inactive component. Tyrothricin also impaired fibroblast, T cell and zebrafish embryo viability at 1 µM. Electron microscopy carried out after 6 h of treatment revealed cytoplasmic vacuolization and structural alterations in the parasite mitochondrion, but these changes appeared only transiently, and tachyzoites recovered after 96 h. Tyrothricin also induced a reduction in the mitochondrial membrane potential. DAC-MS-proteomics identified 521 proteins binding only to tyrocidine A. No specific binding to gramicidin A was noted, and four proteins were common to both peptides. Among the proteins binding specifically to tyrocidine A were several SRS surface antigens and secretory proteins, mitochondrial inner and outer membrane proteins associated with the electron transfer chain and porin, and several calcium-binding proteins putatively involved in signaling. Discussion: These results suggest that tyrocidine A potentially affected multiple pathways important for parasite survival and development. Full article

Background/Objectives: Geometric morphometric analysis (GMA) is a statistical method that captures and quantifies shape variation. This study aimed to assess hard and soft tissue shape variations and changes following orthodontic treatment in Class III skeletal malocclusion using GMA. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 84 lateral cephalometric radiographs (pre-treatment and near-end treatment) of Class III patients aged 16–40 years (ANB < 2°). Thirty-five landmarks were digitized in Cartesian coordinates using MorphoJ software for shape analysis. Results: The sample included 62% females and 38% males, with a mean age of 24.7 ± 5.2 years. Vertical dimension variations (hypodivergent to hyperdivergent) contributed most to shape changes PC1 (23.35%), followed by anteroposterior variations PC2 (13.51%). Gender significantly influenced hard and soft tissue variation with 30.91%SS (F = 56.99, p < 0.0001). Males had significantly larger and longer ramus, body of the mandible, alveolar height, LAFH, TAFH and upper lip length. (PD: 0.026, p < 0.05). Significant shape changes were seen in the mandible (PD = 0.018, p < 0.05). SNB increased by 0.41° (from 81.73° ± 3.67°), and ANB improved by 0.46° but remained Class III (−0.33° ± 1.82°). Lower anterior facial height increased by 1.78 mm (p < 0.05). The lower incisors retroclined significantly (from 92° ± 8.56° to 87° ± 6.96°, p < 0.05), while the interincisal angle increased by 5.9°. Upper incisors remained procline (118° ± 11°, p > 0.05). Upper lip length increased by 0.4 mm (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Vertical and anteroposterior shape variations are notable within Class III malocclusion. Post-treatment changes in both hard and soft tissues indicate that orthodontic camouflage can enhance facial esthetics and skeletal balance. GMA provides objective quantification and visualization of these treatment-related craniofacial changes. Full article

The trend toward sustainable protein substitutes is driven by growing concerns about food security, sustainability, and human health. Spent brewer’s yeast and wine lees are two by-products of the beer and wine industry with high potential, owing to their complex composition, which remains insufficiently exploited. The purpose of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of the two by-products under two different drying techniques to observe if there are significant changes in composition: oven-drying and freeze-drying. Two samples of wine lees from producers in the Republic of Moldova were used—Asconi Winery and Cricova Winery (Republic of Moldova)—as well as a sample of spent brewer’s yeast offered by Efes Vitanta Moldova Brewery. The samples were characterized in terms of physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity (total polyphenol content (TPC), individual polyphenol content, and DPPH assay scavenging activity), color, mineral content, structural composition (FT-IR analysis), and microstructure, as well as organic acid and B vitamin content. The highest protein content was recorded in the samples from Cricova (45.35–46.81%). Regarding the polyphenols, the oven-dried Efes sample exhibited a TPC value of 3.98 mg GAE/g, while the highest DPPH value of 88.92% was observed in the Asconi sample. All analyzed samples showed a diverse composition of individual phenolic compounds, including 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, caffeic acid, and rosmarinic acid. Wine lees samples have the highest content of B vitamins, with vitamin B3 being the most abundant across all samples, followed by vitamin B6. The microstructural examination revealed autolyzed yeast cells, with more permeable cell walls, favorable to subsequent valorization treatments, and in some cases, cells form clusters in a mother-daughter junction due to serial re-pitching. Full article

Newborns are unable to reliably express changes in their physical condition due to their physiological immaturity and limited capacity for communication; therefore, continuous and systematic monitoring during phototherapy is essential to ensure timely detection of adverse responses and maintenance of therapeutic safety. This study extends our prior work, which introduced an indirect method for measuring light intensity to improve precision in monitoring newborn skin illumination. Light-emitting diode (LED) phototherapy has attracted considerable attention as an effective treatment for neonatal jaundice (NNJ). This study introduces an three-dimensional configuration of blue LEDs. An Arduino Mega 2560 microcontroller with pulse-width modulation (PWM) technology was employed to independently regulate the intensity of LED strips, enabling precise control of light output. The strips were mounted on an arc-shaped structure that can be adjusted mechanically and electronically through pre-programmed instructions embedded in the microcontroller. The results demonstrate that blue light at a wavelength of 460 ± 10 nm aligns with the peak absorption spectrum of bilirubin, thereby optimizing the efficacy of phototherapy for NNJ. Both observed absorption peaks were within the therapeutically effective range. Computer simulations confirmed that stable output contours can be achieved using rapid electronic scanning with a PID control algorithm to dynamically adjust the duty cycle. Experimental data showed that LED radiation output was largely linear. This supports the use of linear control algorithms and confirms the platform’s feasibility for future research. Full article

Background: Vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL) often presents with features resembling uveitis and is commonly associated with central nervous system lymphoma (CNSL). Intravitreal methotrexate (IVMTX) is widely used as local therapy; however, objective markers for treatment response and prognosis remain limited. This study investigated choroidal structural changes after IVMTX via enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) and explored prognostic indicators for subsequent CNSL development. Methods: This retrospective study included 18 patients (27 eyes) with VRL treated with IVMTX at Tokushima University Hospital between 2006 and 2021. EDI-OCT was conducted at baseline and at 1 and 3 months after IVMTX. Choroidal thickness and luminal and stromal areas were quantified through image binarization. The stromal/choroidal area (S/C) ratio and its association with CNSL onset were statistically analyzed. Results: The mean number of IVMTX injections administered over 3 months was 5.9 ± 1.3. Foveal retinal thickness did not significantly change, whereas foveal choroidal thickness significantly decreased from 275.8 ± 15.8 µm at baseline to 257.5 ± 14.7 µm at 1 month (p < 0.01). Total choroidal and stromal areas, particularly in the outer choroidal layer, were significantly decreased after IVMTX (p < 0.0001), whereas the luminal area in the inner layer modestly reduced (p < 0.05). The S/C ratio significantly declined at 1 month post-treatment (p < 0.001). Patients who developed CNSL within 2 years of VRL onset demonstrated higher baseline S/C ratios (p < 0.05). Conclusions: IVMTX induces measurable reductions in choroidal areas and stromal proportion, indicating decreased inflammatory infiltration. The baseline S/C ratio observed on EDI-OCT is a potential noninvasive biomarker of VRL activity and a prognostic indicator for early CNSL development. Full article

Familial cancers are caused by inherited mutations in specific genes that regulate cell growth, division, and repair. Approximately 5–10% of all cancer cases have a hereditary component, where germline mutations in certain genes increase an individual’s susceptibility to developing cancer. Two major categories of genes are involved in cancer development: tumour suppressor genes and oncogenes. Both play critical roles in regulating normal cell behaviour, and when mutated, they can contribute to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumour formation. In addition to genetic mutations, epigenetic alterations also play a significant role in familial cancer. Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression due to DNA methylation, histone modifications, and the dysregulation of non-coding RNAs without alter the underlying DNA sequence. Familial cancer syndromes follow various inheritance patterns, including autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked, and mitochondrial inheritance, each with distinct characteristics. Identifying genetic mutations associated with familial cancers is a cornerstone of genetic counselling, which helps individuals and families navigate the complex intersection of genetics, cancer risk, and prevention. Early identification of mutations enables personalized strategies for risk reduction, early detection, and, when applicable, targeted treatment options, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Full article

Because of its strong bearing capacity and large size, a thick and hard roof is the main source of strong ground pressure in a stope, and its breaking and migration mechanism and effective control are very important for realizing safe and efficient mining in coal mines. In this paper, by constructing a numerical model that fully considers the actual occurrence conditions of such a roof, the control law of the occurrence conditions of a thick and hard roof on its fracture law and strata behavior is systematically studied, and the control mechanism of the movement and hydraulic fracturing of this kind of roof is revealed. The results show that (1) the fracture process of a thick hard roof is characterized by three stages—crack initiation, extension, and overall instability—and the “pressure arch” structure formed by the overlying huge hard rock stratum is the fundamental force source leading to strong ground pressure; (2) the roof thickness and horizon significantly control the stress distribution and fracture behavior of coal and rock mass, and the peak stress of coal and rock mass is positively correlated with the roof thickness, but negatively correlated with its horizon; (3) with the increase in roof thickness, the dominant fracture mechanism changes from tension type to tension–shear composite type, which leads to a significant increase in fracture step. Hydraulic fracturing technology can effectively cut off the “pressure arch” structure and optimize the stress field of surrounding rock. After fracturing, the first weighting step and weighting strength are reduced by 36% and 38.1%, respectively. An industrial test shows that a fracturing treatment realizes timely and orderly roof caving and achieves the controllable weakening and safe promotion of the thick and hard roof. This study provides a solid theoretical basis and a successful engineering practice model for roof disaster prevention and control under similar geological conditions. Full article

Background: In nuclear medicine, numerous cancer types are treated via internal irradiation with radiopharmaceuticals, including low-LET (linear energy transfer) beta-emitting radionuclides like Lu-177. In most cases, such treatments lead to low-dose exposure of organ systems with β-irradiation, which induces only few isolated DSBs (double-strand breaks) in the nuclei of hit cells, the most threatening DNA damage type. That damaging effect contrasts with the clustering of DNA damage and DSBs in nuclei traversed by high-LET particles (α particles, ions, etc.). Methods: After in-solution β-irradiation for 1 h with Lu-177 leading to an absorbed dose of about 100 mGy, we investigated the spatial nano-organization of chromatin at DSB damage sites, of repair proteins and of heterochromatin marks via single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) in PBMCs. For evaluation, mathematical approaches were used (Ripley distance frequency statistics, DBScan clustering, persistent homology and similarity measurements). Results: We analyzed, at the nanoscale, the distribution of the DNA damage response (DDR) proteins γH2AX, 53BP1, MRE11 and pATM in the chromatin regions surrounding a DSB. Furthermore, local changes in spatial H3K9me3 heterochromatin organization were analyzed relative to γH2AX distribution. SMLM measurements of the different fluorescent molecule tags revealed characteristic clustering of the DDR markers around one or two damage foci per PBMC cell nucleus. Ripley distance histograms suggested the concentration of MRE11 molecules inside γH2AX-clusters, while 53BP1 was present throughout the entire γH2AX clusters. Persistent homology comparisons for 53BP1, MRE11 and γH2AX by Jaccard index calculation revealed significant topological similarities for each of these markers. Since the heterochromatin organization of cell nuclei determines the identity of cell nuclei and correlates to genome activity, it also influences DNA repair. Therefore, the histone H3 tri methyl mark H3K9me3 was analyzed for its topology. In contrast to typical results obtained through photon irradiation, where γH2AX and H3K9me3 markers were well separated, the results obtained here also showed a close spatial proximity (“co-localization”) in many cases (minimum distance of markers = marker size), even with the strictest co-localization distance threshold (20 nm) for γH2AX and H3K9me3. The data support the results from the literature where only one DSB induced by low-dose low LET irradiation (<100 mGy) can remain without heterochromatin relaxation for subsequent repair. Full article

The rising global burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) has now positioned it as the third most common cancer worldwide. Chemotherapy regimens are known to disrupt the composition of the gut microbiota and lead to long-term health consequences for cancer patients. However, the alteration of gut microbiota by specific chemotherapeutic agents has been insufficiently explored until now. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in the gut microbiota following treatment with VERU-111 as a chemotherapy agent for the treatment of CRC. We thus performed a metagenomic study using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing of fecal samples from different experimental groups in the azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced murine model of CRC. To predict the functional potential of microbial communities, we used the resulting 16S rRNA gene sequencing data to perform Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. We found that the administration of VERU-111 led to a restructured microbial community that was characterized by increased alpha and beta diversity. Compared to the mice treated with DSS alone, VERU-111 treatment significantly increased the relative abundance of several bacterial species, including Verrucomicrobiota species, Muribaculum intestinale, Alistipes finegoldii, Turicibacter, and the well-known gut-protective bacterial species Akkermansia muciniphila. The relative abundance of Ruminococcus, which is negatively correlated with immune checkpoint blockade therapy, was diminished following VERU-111 administration. Overall, this metagenomic study suggests that the microbial shift after administration of VERU-111 is associated with suppression of several metabolic and cancer-related pathways that might, at least in part, facilitate the suppression of CRC. These favorable shifts in gut microbiota suggest a novel therapeutic dimension of using VERU-111 to treat CRC and emphasize the need for further mechanistic exploration. Full article

This study examined how different fertilisation strategies (mineral, compost, vermicompost and non-fertilised control) influence vine nutrient status, must composition and wine chemical characteristics over two consecutive seasons (2024–2025) in two semi-arid Mediterranean vineyards, one deficit-irrigated and other rainfed. Compost and vermicompost were produced from winery residues, in line with a circular management approach. Organic fertilisation improved vine nitrogen and potassium levels, particularly at veraison, with cumulative effects observed over time. Musts from fertilised vines (mineral, compost and vermicompost) exhibited higher levels of yeast-assimilable nitrogen (YAN) and pH, as well as lower titratable acidity, compared to the control group (without fertilization). Wines obtained from these treatments exhibited higher ethanol content and modified acidity parameters, with compositional changes being more evident in the rainfed vineyard. Analysis of volatile compounds revealed that organic fertilisers, particularly vermicompost, promoted the formation of esters, higher alcohols, and terpenes linked to grape metabolism and fermentation. These results demonstrate that organic amendments derived from winery waste can serve as efficient nutrient sources, thereby enhancing the nutritional balance of vines and the composition of wines, while also promoting sustainable and circular practices in viticulture. Full article

Background/Objectives: Multidisciplinary hybrid educational programs combined with continuous glucose monitoring may contribute to improved self-management in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM); however, real-world evidence remains limited. This study assessed the effects of an educational intervention integrated with continuous glucose monitoring on glycemic control and patient-reported outcomes in adults with T1DM. Methods: We conducted a single-group quasi-experimental study including 210 adults with T1DM from a public hospital. The nurse-led hybrid intervention consisted of a 2-h in-person group educational session followed by an individual telematic follow-up session. All participants used continuous glucose monitoring. The primary outcome was the change in HbA1c at 9 months. Secondary outcomes included continuous glucose monitoring metrics, diabetes-related quality of life, treatment satisfaction, and hypoglycemia awareness. Results: HbA1c showed a statistically significant but modest reduction from 7.70 ± 1.10% to 7.45 ± 0.91% following the intervention (p = 0.003). No statistically significant changes were observed in continuous glucose monitoring metrics, including time in range, time below and above range, mean glucose, glycemic variability, or sensor wear time. In terms of emotional well-being, treatment satisfaction increased significantly (8.17 ± 7.86 vs. 12.73 ± 5.49; p < 0.001), and the Clarke score showed a statistically significant but modest decrease (2.49 ± 1.90 vs. 2.12 ± 1.88; p = 0.017). Although the overall quality of life score did not change significantly, statistically significant differences were observed in several subscales, including satisfaction, impact, and diabetes-related concern. Conclusions: A multidisciplinary hybrid educational intervention integrated with continuous glucose monitoring was associated with modest improvements in HbA1c and statistically significant, though limited, enhancements in quality of life, treatment satisfaction, and hypoglycemia awareness in adults with T1DM. These findings suggest that similar educational models may have a supportive role in routine care. Full article

Thyroid cancer (TC) incidence is rising, necessitating a refined understanding of its complex biology, particularly for advanced forms. This review synthesizes the state-of-the-art knowledge, guided by the WHO 5th Classification (2022), which incorporates molecular findings and introduces categories like Differentiated High-Grade Thyroid Carcinoma (DHGTC) to better stratify prognosis. The review summarizes the molecular changes in thyroid cancer (TC) by establishing a clear link between specific oncogenic alterations and the resulting tumor phenotype, prognosis, risk stratification and therapeutic vulnerabilities. The central importance of the review lies in its comprehensive integration of these molecular changes with the resulting immunological microenvironment and the rationale for novel, personalized therapies. Moreover, high-level genomic instability within aggressive thyroid malignancies promotes an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment via the selection and recruitment of suppressive immune components, contributing to immune evasion and poor prognosis. This characteristic immunosuppression identifies the aggressive tumors as prime candidates for targeted immunotherapies. The review implicitly argues that understanding the molecular drivers of this immunosuppression is essential for designing effective clinical trials using these novel agents. Diagnostic advancements, including molecular testing for high-risk mutations (BRAF, TERT) and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for refined risk stratification, are enabling personalized treatment. The evolving molecular and clinical understanding allows for a paradigm shift toward individualized therapies that balance optimal disease control with minimizing morbidity, especially in the context of high-risk disease. Full article

Plastic pollution is acknowledged as a serious problem for ecosystems. Among these plastics, polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) are emerging environmental pollutants, and their biological effects on hepatotoxicity are the least explored. Therefore, the present work examined the effect of PS-NPs on the hepatic transcription of the antioxidant genes Hmox1 and Sod3 in mice (n = 6, treatment (PS-NPs) vs. vehicle group (Veh)), mediated by RORγ and epigenetic modifications. The results show that PS-NP mice had significantly reduced body weight; increased activity of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH), and Complexes I, III, and V in the liver; and increased Alanine Transaminase (ALT), Aspartate Transaminase (ASP), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to the Veh group. Furthermore, PS-NPs resulted in considerably lower relative mRNA expression of Hmox1, Sod3, and RORγ in the liver than the Veh group. Likewise, when compared to Veh, PS-NPs significantly reduced the enrichment of RORγ, as well as the occupancies of the key components of the transcriptional activation pathway (P300, SRC1, Pol II, Ser5-Pol II, and Ser2-Pol II) at the loci of Hmox1 and Sod3. In comparison to Veh, PS-NPs showed downregulated occupancies of the histone active marks H3K9ac and H3K18ac, while H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 were higher at the target loci of Hmox1 and Sod3. In conclusion, the present study highlights that PS-NPs induce oxidative stress by modifying Hmox1 and Sod3 in mice’s livers through histone changes and nuclear receptor RORγ modulation. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of varying dietary salt and boric acid addition doses on the milk quality of Savak Akkaraman sheep. A total of 120 animals were as-signed to six treatment groups (n = 20): control (C), rock salt (S; 10 g/day), boric acid 20 mg/day (B20), boric acid 40 mg/day (B40), BS20 (20 mg boric acid + 10 g/day rock salt), and BS40 (40 mg boric acid + 10 g/day rock salt). All analyses were performed in duplicate on six samples, taken on days 30 and 35 following the administration of the additives. Physicochemical analyses only showed significant variation in milk pH (p = 0.006), while acidity, dry matter, and ash remained unaffected. Strong positive correlations were found among protein, lactose, salt, and density (r > 0.95; p < 0.001). Coagulation times differed widely, with the longest being observed in BS20 (995.03 s) and the shortest in BS40 (141.73 s). Among mineral parameters, only selenium levels differed significantly between the treatment groups (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found for fat, solids-not-fat, lactose, freezing point, or electrical conductivity. Importantly, boron addition had a significant influence on total casein content (p < 0.001). Overall, dietary rock salt and boric acid did not markedly alter the basic milk composition but produced notable physicochemical changes, particularly in coagulation behavior and casein levels, which may influence the technological properties of sheep milk. Full article