Unveiling the role of miRNAs in Diminished Ovarian Reserve: an in silico network approach.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have acquired an increased recognition to unravel the complex molecular mechanisms underlying Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR), one of the main responsible for infertility. To investigate the impact of miRNA profiles in granulosa cells and follicular fluid, crucial players in follicle development, this study employed a computational network theory approach to reconstruct potential pathways regulated by miRNAs in granulosa cells and follicular fluid of women suffering from DOR. Available data from published research were collected to create the FGC_MiRNome_MC, a representation of miRNA target genes and their interactions.

Genetic and species rearrangements in microbial consortia impact biodegradation potential.

Genomic reorganisation between species and horizontal gene transfer have been considered the most important mechanism of biological adaptation under selective pressure. Still, the impact of mobile genes in microbial ecology is far from being completely understood. Here we present the collection and characterisation of microbial consortia enriched from environments contaminated with emerging pollutants, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Repurposing Drugs for Synergistic Combination Therapies to Counteract Monkeypox Virus Tecovirimat Resistance.

The ongoing monkeypox (mpox) disease outbreak has spread to multiple countries in Central Africa and evidence indicates it is driven by a more virulent clade I monkeypox virus (MPXV) strain than the clade II strain associated with the 2022 global mpox outbreak, which led the WHO to declare this mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. The FDA-approved small molecule antiviral tecovirimat (TPOXX) is recommended to treat mpox cases with severe symptoms, but the limited efficacy of TPOXX and the emergence of TPOXX resistant MPXV variants has challenged this medical practice of care and highlighted the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies. In this study we have used vaccinia virus (VACV) as a surrogate of MPXV to assess the antiviral efficacy of combination therapy of TPOXX together with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), an FDA-approved immunosuppressive agent that we have shown to inhibit VACV and MPXV, or the N-myristoyltransferase (NMT) inhibitor IMP-1088.

COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Dose Fails to Enhance Antibody Response to Omicron Variant in Reinfected Healthcare Workers.

The emergence of new variants and diverse vaccination regimens have raised uncertainty about vaccine effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2. This study aims to investigate the impact of Omicron primo-/reinfection and primary vaccination schedules on the immunogenicity of an mRNA-based booster dose over a six-month period. We conducted a prospective cohort study to assess the durability and level of antibodies of 678 healthcare workers fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Impact of Obesity-Associated SARS-CoV-2 Mutations on COVID-19 Severity and Clinical Outcomes.

This study explores the relationship between specific SARS-CoV-2 mutations and obesity, focusing on how these mutations may influence COVID-19 severity and outcomes in high-BMI individuals. We analyzed 205 viral mutations from a cohort of 675 patients, examining the association of mutations with BMI, hospitalization, and mortality rates. Logistic regression models and statistical analyses were applied to assess the impact of significant mutations on clinical outcomes, including inflammatory markers and antibody levels.

Plasmid Gene Therapy for Monogenic Disorders: Challenges and Perspectives.

Monogenic disorders are a group of human diseases caused by mutations in single genes. While some disease-altering treatments offer relief and slow the progression of certain conditions, the majority of monogenic disorders still lack effective therapies. In recent years, gene therapy has appeared as a promising approach for addressing genetic disorders.

Exploring the Therapeutic Landscape: A Narrative Review on Topical and Oral Phosphodiesterase-4 Inhibitors in Dermatology.

Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) is involved in the synthesis of inflammatory cytokines that mediate several chronic inflammatory disorders, including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. In recent years, the therapeutic armamentarium in dermatology has expanded with the introduction of PDE4 inhibitors, both in oral and topical formulations. PDE4 inhibitors have gained increasing interest due to their remarkable safety record and ease of prescription, as evidenced by the recent influx of literature detailing its off-label uses.

Development and Characterization of Lyophilized Chondroitin Sulfate-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Encapsulation Efficiency and Stability.

This study explores the development and characterization of lyophilized chondroitin sulfate (CHON)-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) as an innovative platform for advanced drug delivery. Solid lipid nanoparticles are increasingly recognized for their biocompatibility, their ability to encapsulate diverse compounds, their capacity to enhance drug stability, their bioavailability, and their therapeutic efficacy. CHON, a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan with anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, was integrated into SLN formulations using the hot microemulsion technique.

Development and Application of Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic Model to Predict Systemic and Organ Exposure of Colorectal Cancer Drugs.

Background/objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) holds the third and second position among cancers affecting men and women, respectively. Frequently, the first-line treatment for metastatic CRC consists of the intravenous administration of 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin in combination with oxaliplatin or irinotecan. Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic models (PBPK) aim to mechanistically incorporate body physiology and drug physicochemical attributes, enabling the description of both systemic and organ drug exposure based on the treatment specificities.

The Frequency of c.557A>G in the Dominican Population and Its Association with African Ancestry.

Genetic polymorphism of the dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase gene () is responsible for the variability found in the metabolism of fluoropyrimidines such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), capecitabine, or tegafur. The genotype is linked to variability in enzyme activity, 5-FU elimination, and toxicity. Approximately 10-40% of patients treated with fluoropyrimidines develop severe toxicity.

Alkaloid Profile, Anticholinesterase and Antioxidant Activities, and Sexual Propagation in (Amaryllidaceae).

, a recently described endemic species from southern Peru, belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family and is known for its diversity of alkaloids. Amaryllidoideae have been studied for their diverse biological activities, particularly for their properties in treating neurodegenerative diseases. This work examines the alkaloidal profile using GC-MS and UPLC-MS/MS of alkaloid-enriched extracts obtained from the leaves and bulbs of and their inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) enzymes.

WCS417 Strain Enhances Tomato ( L.) Plant Growth Under Alkaline Conditions.

Iron (Fe) deficiency is among the most important agronomical concerns under alkaline conditions. Bicarbonate is considered an important factor causing Fe deficiency in dicot plants, mainly on calcareous soils. Current production systems are based on the use of high-yielding varieties and the application of large quantities of agrochemicals, which can cause major environmental problems.

Bioactive Sesquiterpenoids from L. Flowers: Chemical Profiling and Antifungal Activity Against Species.

L. (cotton-lavender) is receiving increasing attention due to its potential for modern medicine and is considered both a functional food and nutraceutical. In this work, the phytochemical profile of its flower hydromethanolic extract was investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and its applications as a biorational for crop protection were explored against spp.

Medicinal Plant Use in North Karelia, Finland, in the 2010s.

Finnish North Karelia is a region with a rich cultural history of ethnomedicinal plant use, shaped by centuries of interactions among various ethnic groups. This study identified both similarities and divergences between local Finns, Karelians war refugees, and individuals of mixed origin compared to historical records. Based on 67 semi-structured interviews, we documented the use of 43 medicinal plant taxa from 25 families, of which 31 remain in use.

Optimizing In Vitro Propagation of Schönland Using Leaf, Root, and Inflorescence.

, a species native to South Africa, is characterized by its limited growth and scarcity, contributing to high production costs. Countries like China and Turkey are known for exporting globally. Tissue culture offers an efficient method for mass-producing unique and beautiful species such as This study tested Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal media supplemented with various concentrations of IBA (0.

The Genus : A Comprehensive Review of Taxonomic Aspects, Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities.

The genus (Asteraceae) has been traditionally used in Mediterranean medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. However, scientific research on this genus remains limited, highlighting the need for a comprehensive review of its chemical composition and pharmacological characteristics. This review compiles existing knowledge on species, focusing on their secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids, terpenes, and essential oils, as well as associated biological activities.

Effect of Deficit Irrigation on Agronomic and Physiological Performance of Pomegranate ( L.).

Agriculture accounts for over 70% of global freshwater consumption, with increasing competition for water resources due to climate change and rising urban and industrial demands. This study analyzes the effect of deficit irrigation (DI) on the agronomic and physiological performance of pomegranate ( L.) in a Mediterranean climate.

Effects of Caffeine Intake Combined with Self-Selected Music During Warm-Up on Anaerobic Performance: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Study.

Background: Both listening to music during warm-up and consuming caffeine before exercise have been independently shown to enhance athletic performance. However, the potential synergistic effects of combining these strategies remain largely unexplored. To date, only two studies have reported additional benefits to combining music during warm-up with a caffeine dose of 3 mg/kg on taekwondo-specific performance tasks.

The Association Between Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in University Students: The Mediating Role of Lean Mass and the Muscle Strength Index.

Background/objectives: recent studies have suggested that components typical of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) are associated with depression and anxiety prevention. In this sense, the main objective of this study was to analyse the associations between adherence to the MedDiet and depression and anxiety symptoms and to examine whether this relationship is mediated by lean mass and the muscle strength index (MSI).

Methods: a cross-sectional study (based on data obtained from the Nuts4Brain-Z study) was conducted from 2023-2024, involving 428 university students, aged 18-30 years, from a Spanish public university.

Influence of Dietary Fiber and Polyphenols During Pre-Gestation, Gestation, or Lactation on Intestinal Gene Expression.

Background/objectives: Diet composition is important for health, especially during critical periods such as pre-gestation (P), gestation (G), or lactation (S), due to its potential impact not only on the mother but on the offspring. The Mediterranean diet includes many healthy foods rich in fiber and/or polyphenols, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and nuts. The present preclinical study assesses the impact of a diet rich in fiber and polyphenols (HFP diet) during one of those three periods (P, G, or S, three weeks each) on the rat gene expression of the small intestine obtained at the end of the lactation period.

Diet, Advanced Maternal Age, and Neonatal Outcomes: Results from the GESTAGE Study.

Maternal nutrition during pregnancy plays a pivotal role in influencing both maternal and fetal health, impacting neonatal anthropometric outcomes and long-term disease susceptibility. An advanced maternal age (AMA ≥ 35 years) has been linked to increased risks of obstetric complications and adverse neonatal outcomes, yet its specific nutritional profile remains underexplored. : This study aimed to evaluate the nutrient and polyphenol intakes of women at an AMA compared to those of a younger control group and to investigate associations with neonatal anthropometric measures.

Beneficial Effects of a Moderately High-Protein Diet on Telomere Length in Subjects with Overweight or Obesity.

Background And Aim: Telomere length (TL) is a key biomarker of cellular aging, with shorter telomeres associated with age-related diseases. Lifestyle interventions mitigating telomere shortening are essential for preventing such conditions. This study aimed to examine the effects of two weight loss dietary strategies, based on a moderately high-protein (MHP) diet and a low-fat (LF) diet on TL in individuals with overweight or obesity.

Cross-National Survey About Nutrition and Nutrition Communication Among Older Adults Aged 60 Years and Above.

The global population is undergoing a significant demographic shift characterised by an increasing proportion of older individuals. Healthy aging has become a priority for personal well-being and sustainable healthcare systems, with nutrition playing a pivotal role. However, the rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), malnutrition, and a shift in eating behaviour underscore the need for tailored, effective nutrition communication strategies.

Specific Physical and Nutritional Preparation of a Professional Kata Karate Athlete: A Case Study with a Bronze Medallist from the Pan American Games.

Background And Objectives: In karate, particularly in the kata discipline, there is a notable lack of studies focused on specific physical preparation for competitions. This highlights an urgent need for more in-depth research into this crucial aspect of athletic training to optimize performance and athlete preparation. The objective of this study was to analyze the influence of a dietary plan combined with specific physical preparation on the performance and body composition of a professional kata athlete preparing for a Pan American championship.

Psychoneurological Links Contributing to Body Mass Index and Eating Disorder Severity.

Background-objectives: Multiple dynamic interacting factors contribute to the presence and progression of eating disorders (ED). Empirical research has provided mixed findings regarding the mechanisms explaining the contribution of body mass index (BMI) to the diverse ED endophenotypes. The present study aims to evaluate the underlying processes (direct and indirect effects) contributing to BMI and ED severity, considering the contribution of multiple neuropsychological constructs.