Abstract: This paper considers whether forest volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and/or their metabolites have health-promoting activities, and whether this is through ‘mindfulness’ practices and/or activation of health-promoting physiological processes. The VOCs considered are the monoterpenes D-limonene, a-pinene, D3-carene and 1,8-cineole. Clearly, some of the health benefits of forest bathing come from ‘mindfulness’ practice that promote parasympathetic activities. There is also clear evidence that the 4 monoterpenes at high enough concentrations can activate physiological processes that lead to better health outcomes, particularly with decreases in anxiety and decreases in inflammation. These processes appear to involve activation of the A2A receptor and down-regulating activation of Nuclear Factor kappa B. The question is whether the monoterpenes can do so at the concentrations encountered in a forest setting. There is some research that indicates that forest atmospheric concentrations of monoterpenes can activate physiological processes that promote health but more research is required to definitively establish this. This review ends with suggestions on how to unequivocally answer the question whether the 4 monoterpenes considered at concentrations found in a forest, or their metabolites, can activate physiological processes that promote health, in particular physiological processes that decrease anxiety and inflammatory conditions and promote better endothelial function.

Abstract: This study investigated the antibacterial activity of aqueous and organic extracts from 78 marine organisms, including seaweeds and sponges, collected from the coastal zone of Ceará, Brazil. Biological tissue extracts were obtained by maceration using distilled water and 50% acetonitrile. The extracts were tested against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacterial strains using the disk diffusion method and measuring inhibition zone diameters. Results showed that 30.7% of the organisms exhibited antibacterial activity, with greater effectiveness in organic extracts. Demonstrated remarkable bioactive potential, particularly the genus Aplysina, Amphimedon compressa, Amphimedon viridis, Mycale sp., and Pseudosuberites sp. Seaweeds showed no activity in aqueous extracts, but some organic extracts were effective against Gram-positive strains, notably Amansia multifida. Most extracts were more effective against Gram-positive bacteria, likely due to their simpler cell wall structure. These findings highlight the biotechnological potential of marine organisms from the Brazilian coast as sources of novel antibacterial molecules, contributing to the search for alternative therapies in response to the growing issue of bacterial resistance.

Abstract: Glioblastoma (GBM) poses a formidable challenge to patients for several reasons. Given its grim prognosis, understanding the various mechanisms GBM tumors utilize to resist therapy is essential to improve patient outcomes. Using PubMed, this focused review identifies and characterizes five critical elements of GBM tumors that contribute to their resistance to treatment: DNA repair enzymes, temozolomide (TMZ) and radiation mechanisms, anti-apoptosis mechanisms, GBM tumor heterogeneity and its effects on the cell cycle. This review explores various challenges associated with GBM tumors, such as their resistance against standard treatments such as TMZ and radiation therapy (RT). We explore the importance of epigenetic reprogramming, genetic mutations critical for cell proliferation and tumor suppression, and the role of mismatch repair (MMR) processes that influence RT and immune response interplay as contributors to GBM resistance. In addition, this review highlights vital DNA repair enzymes such as O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and Alkylpurine-DNA N-Glycosylase (APNG), which repair DNA damage introduced by alkylating agents such as TMZ. The involvement of the NuRD complex, particularly CHD4, in regulating access to DNA repair enzymes. Recent advancements in understanding the transcriptional regulation of MGMT through NF-κB activity are examined. Further, we explore novel approaches, including using anticancer neural stem cells and targeting hexokinase 2 (HK2) with antifungal drugs. Examining critical elements of the GBM cell cycle, such as the role of CDK's, cyclin(s) and proliferation markers such as ki67, can also give us a foundation for identifying possible target proteins and kinases for cancer drugs. While targeting DNA repair enzymes, proteins, and regulatory elements shows promise in enhancing GBM treatment efficacy, we acknowledge the challenges, including potential side effects and the risk of secondary cancers. Future research should focus on leveraging personalized medicine approaches and emerging biotechnologies, such as CRISPR gene editing, to develop targeted therapies that can overcome resistance mechanisms of GBM and improve patient outcomes.

Abstract: The canonical model of vertebrate sex chromosome evolution predicts one way of trend toward degradation. However, most sex chromosomes in lower vertebrates are homomorphic. Recent progress in studies of sex determination resulted in the discovery of more than 30 master sex determination (MSD) genes, most of which were from teleost fish. Analysis of MSD gene acquisition, recombination suppression, and sex chromosome-specific sequences revealed correlation of the modes of MSD gene acquisition and evolution of sex chromosomes: Sex chromosomes remain homomorphic with MSD genes acquired by simple mutations, gene duplications, allelic variations or neofunctionalization; in contrast, they become heteromorphic with MSD genes acquired by chromosomal inversions, fusions and fissions. There is no recombination suppression with sex chromosomes carrying MSD genes gained through simple mutations. In contrast, there is extensive recombination suppression with sex chromosomes carrying MSD genes gained through chromosome inversion. There is limited recombination suppression with sex chromosomes carrying MSD genes gained through transpositions or translocations. We proposed the cause-effect model that predicts sex chromosomes evolution being consequential of the acquisition modes of MSD genes, which explains evolution of sex chromosomes in various vertebrates. A key factor determining the trend of sex chromosome evolution is if non-homologous regions are created during the acquisition of MSD genes. Chromosome inversion creates inversely homologous but directly non-homologous sequences which lead to recombination suppression but remain recombination potential. Over time, recurrent recombination in the inverted regions causes degradation of sex chromosomes. Depending on the nature of deletions in the inverted regions, sex chromosomes may evolve with dosage compensation or mechanisms to retain haploinsufficient genes.

Abstract: The antifouling performance of a zwitterionic Sulfobetaine-Hydroxyethyl containing-Polymethylmethacrylate ter-co-polymer (PSBM) is evaluated against three photosynthetic strains, namely Chlorella sp., Nannochloropsis sp., and Arthrospira maxima. PSBM coated polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) surfaces displayed significantly reduced propensity for biofilm formation, compared to rough and untreated controls, leaving clean surfaces after 7 days of exposure. A tribological approach was adopted to estimate the long-term durability of the PSBM coating. Repeated cycles of exposure to Chlorella sp., Nannochloropsis sp., and A. maxima biomass subject the coating to stress and continuous biofilm challenge. After several cycles, the PSBM coating maintains a higher antifouling efficacy than untreated PMMA surfaces, suggesting stability and high potential in Photobioreactors application.

Abstract: In the human ABCG2 multidrug transporter a so called “leucin plug/valve” (aa. L554/L555) has been suggested to determine substrate exit and coupling of drug transport to ATPase activity. In this work we have analyzed the effects of selected var-iants in this region by expressing these variants both in mammalian and Sf9 insect cells. We found that in mammalian cells the L554A, L554F, L555F and a combination of L554F/L555F variants of ABCG2 were functional, processed to the plasma membrane, and exhibited substrate transport activity similar to the wild-type ABCG2, while the L555A and the L554A/L555A mutants were poorly expressed and processed in mam-malian cells. In Sf9 cells, all the variants were expressed at similar levels, still, the L555A and the L554A/L555A variants lost all transport-related function, while the L554F and the L555F variants had reduced dye transport and altered sub-strate-stimulated ATPase activity. In molecular dynamics simulations the mutant var-iants exhibited highly rearranged contacts in the central transmembrane helices, thus alterations both in folding, trafficking and function can be expected to occur. Our cur-rent studies reinforce the importance of L554/L555 in ABCG2 folding and function, while do not support the specific role of this region in selective substrate handling and show a general reduction of the coupling of drug transport to ATPase activity.

Abstract: The interplay between genetics and athletic performance has garnered significant at-tention, emphasizing the role of Performance-Enhancing Polymorphisms (PEPs) in determining traits critical for athletic success. This study investigates the genetic pre-dispositions related to PPARα, ACE, and CKM gene variants and their influence on elite Point-Fighting (PF) athletes. Twenty-four elite PF athletes underwent genetic analysis using saliva samples collected for DNA extraction. Genotyping revealed the prevalen-ceof key genetic markers, including the D allele (58.33%) and ID genotype for the ACE variant, the G allele (77.08%) and GG genotype (54.17%) for PPARα, and the A allele (77.08%) with an AA genotype (62.50%) for CKM. The Total Genetic Score (TGS) analysis highlighted a mixed-oriented predisposition among athletes, contrasting with their training practices, which are predominantly focused on strength development. These findings suggest the importance of a more balanced training approach, incorporating both aerobic and power components. Preliminary results indicate that applying TGS could enhance early talent identification and support the development of personalized training programs, ultimately improving individual performance in disciplines like PF.

Abstract: The outbreaks of pseudorabies (PR) caused by the pseudorabies virus (PRV) variant strains have led to huge economic losses to the pig industry in China in recent years. In this study, a novel PRV variant strain named PRV/Gansu/China/2021 (GS-2021) was suc-cessfully isolated and identified from the brain tissue samples of PRV-suspected dead piglets at a Bartha-K61-vaccinated pig farm in Gansu Provinces, China, in 2021, and its biological characteristics, genetic features, evolutionary relationship and pathogenicity were further evaluated. The results showed that the PRV GS-2021 strain had different plaque sizes but no significant difference in replication kinetics with Bartha-K61 strain in vitro. In addition, sequence alignments revealed that the gB, gC, gD, and gE proteins of PRV GS-2021 strain shared highly homologous to those of the variant strains. However, glutamate was replaced by glycine at position 91 in the gE protein of the viral strain, alt-hough two aspartate insertions were detected at sites 48 and 498 in the gE protein of the virus. Phylogenetic analysis found that it was more closely related to endemic PRV strains, particularly the variant strains circulating in China, based on those gB, gC, gD, and gE genes and complete genome sequence. Moreover, we further discovered that the PRV GS-2021 strain exhibited a higher pathogenicity than the Bartha-K61 strain in mice through mortality, histopathology, and viral loads. Overall, our results suggested that the isolated PRV GS-2021 strain as a higher virulence variant, has prevalent in Gansu prov-ince of China before 2021 and these findings are important for continuously monitoring the epidemiological characterization and genetic evolution of PRV, which will provide a useful guidance for the design of novel vaccines and more efficacious control and preven-tion strategies of PR in the future.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Chronic hyperglycemia, characteristic of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), promotes the development of complications through oxidative stress. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the antioxidant defenses of diabetic patients, even more so if they are elderly. Sechium edule contains high amounts of flavonoids, cucurbitacins, and phenolic acids, which is why it is attributed hypoglycemic and antioxidant properties, so our aim was to determine the antioxidant and hypoglycemic effect of Schium edule in older diabetic patients. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was carried out in a convenience sample of 33 older diabetic adults: (i) placebo group (PG; n = 14); (ii) experimental group (EG; n = 19). Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipoperoxides (LPO), protein carbonylation (PC), Total Oxidant Status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase enzyme activity were measured at baseline and three months post-intervention. Results: In the EG, a statistically significant decrease in HbA1c was observed (EG baseline 8.9 2.2 post 7.8 2.0), as well as in the oxidative damage markers LPO, PC, TOS and OSI (LPO baseline 0.243 0.067, post 0.222 0.050; PC baseline 29.4 10, post 19.2 6; TOS baseline 6.0 2.6, post 3.1 1.8; OSI baseline 5.7 3.1 post 2.0 1.1); coupled with a significative increase in TAS (baseline 0.94 0.29 post 1.22 0.28), modifications not observed in the PG. Conclusions: Our results suggest that Sechium edule has a hypoglycemic and antioxidant effect in older adults with DM2.

Abstract: Centrilobular hepatocyte hypertrophy is frequently observed in animal studies for chemical safety assessment. Although its toxicological significance and precise mechanism remain unknown, it is considered an adaptive response resulting from the induction of drug-metabolizing enzymes (DMEs). This study aimed to elucidate the association between centrilobular hepatocyte hypertrophy and DME induction using machine learning on toxicogenomic data. Utilizing publicly available gene expression data and pathological findings from rat livers of 134 compounds, we developed six different types of machine learning models to predict the occurrence of centrilobular hepatocyte hypertrophy based on gene expression data as explanatory variables. Among these, a LightGBM-based model demonstrated the best performance with an accuracy of approximately 0.9. With this model, we assessed each gene's contribution to predicting centrilobular hepatocyte hypertrophy using mean absolute SHAP values. The results revealed that Cyp2b1 had an extremely significant contribution, while other DME genes also displayed positive contributions. Additionally, enrichment analysis of the top 100 genes based on mean absolute SHAP values identified "Metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450" as the most significantly enriched term. In conclusion, the current results suggest that the induction of multiple DMEs, including CYP2B1, is crucial for the development of centrilobular hepatocyte hypertrophy.

Abstract: Aims: This study investigated the incidence of seasonal influenza among university students following COVID-19 vaccination at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The objective was to assess potential interactions between COVID-19 vaccination and influenza infection rates, particularly among students frequently engaged in close-contact activities. Methodology and Results: Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire distributed to 230 students, capturing demographic details, vaccination status, preventive behaviors, and medical histories. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify associations between these factors and influenza infection. The results indicated that 41.7% of participants reported contracting seasonal influenza, with males exhibiting significantly higher infection rates than females (p = 0.003). Preventive behaviors, particularly consistent mask-wearing, were associated with a lower infection rate (32.6%, p = 0.049). Although COVID-19 vaccination was not significantly associated with influenza risk overall (p = 0.141), the vaccine type influenced infection rates. Students vaccinated with Pfizer-BioNTech reported a higher incidence of influenza (47.4%) compared to those who received Moderna or Oxford-AstraZeneca (30.2%, p = 0.008). Additionally, prior household exposure to influenza was a significant risk factor, with infection rates reaching 50% (p = 0.002). Logistic regression analysis revealed that COVID-19 vaccination had a protective effect against influenza by reducing illness duration. Conclusion, Significance, and Impact of Study: This study highlighted potential interactions between COVID-19 vaccination and seasonal influenza, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures such as mask-wearing and infection control. Future research should incorporate clinical diagnostics and longitudinal studies to explore vaccine-specific effects and guide public health strategies addressing the coexistence of COVID-19 and influenza.

Abstract: Current management of Ageratina adenophora, a highly invasive weed, relies on synthetic herbicides with environmental and resistance risks, necessitating eco-friendly alternatives. This study evaluated seven phenyl derivatives for phytotoxic activity against A. adenophora via in vitro bioassays. Methyl 4-hydroxyphenylacetate exhibited potent herbicidal efficacy, achieving 100% mortality in 2-month-old seedlings at 30 mM, 3-month-old seedlings at 100 mM, and wild adult/6-month-old plants at 200 mM within 48 hours. At 200 mM, the compound reduced CO₂ assimilation by 113.6% and stomatal conductance by 92.2%, indicating severe photosynthetic and transpirational disruption via oxidative stress-mediated chloroplast degradation and stomatal dysfunction. Hormonal profiling revealed significant declines in IAA-ASP, GA1, TZeatin, and TZR, alongside elevated ABA levels, while GA3 remained stable. These hormonal shifts likely drive stomatal closure and metabolic collapse, culminating in plant death. This study provides the first evidence of methyl 4-hydroxyphenylacetate’s dual-action phytotoxicity—targeting both stomatal regulation and hormonal balance—positioning it as a sustainable biocontrol agent for A. adenophora and potentially other invasive weeds.

Abstract:

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a zoonotic infectious disease and a chronic wasting illness. However, detecting and eradicating bTB remains a significant challenge in South Korea. This study evalu-ated the efficacy of a modified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) protocol for de-tecting bTB in cattle. The protocol included two ELISA tests: one performed on the day of puri-fied protein derivative (PPD) inoculation and another seven days post-inoculation. Results showed a significant increase in ELISA detection rates, from 11% to 76%, particularly in cattle that tested positive for the tuberculin skin test (TST) and/or interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) assays (p < 0.0001). Notably, some cattle that were negative or had doubtful results in TST and IFN-γ as-says transitioned to ELISA-positive post-PPD inoculation. Additionally, some cattle identified as positive only by ELISA (S/P value ≥ 0.3) were confirmed to have bTB through gross examination or real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). The proposed protocol was validated in bTB outbreak farms using S/P thresholds of 0.3 (PPD day) and 0.5 (seven days post-PPD), enabling the detection of infected cattle missed by TST and IFN-γ assays. Implement-ing this approach successfully eradicated bTB in outbreak farms with minimal culling. These findings highlight the potential of incorporating sequential ELISA tests to enhance bTB detection and support eradication efforts.

Abstract: Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum Cav.) is rich in polyphenols, anthocyanins, and carotenoids, making it a promising candidate for functional food development. Various parts of tamarillo were extracted using water and ethanol (0–95%), with 95% ethanol yielding the highest content of bioactive compounds in the peel, pulp, mucilage, and whole fruit, while 75% ethanol was more effective for the seeds. Among tamarillo components, the peel exhibited the highest concentrations of hydroxycinnamoyl derivatives, anthocyanins, and carotenoids, along with superior antioxidant capacity, including strong scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals (EC50, 45.26 µg extract/mL) and high reducing power (EC50, 113.3 µg extract/mL). Regarding enzyme inhibition relevant to metabolic syndrome (MetS), the peel extract exhibited the strongest inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase (IC50, 1.623 mg/mL) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (IC50, 1.435 mg/mL). In contrast, the pulp extract demonstrated the highest inhibitory activity against pancreatic lipase (IC50, 0.882 mg/mL) and α-amylase (IC50, 2.369 mg/mL). These findings suggest tamarillo extracts possess potent antioxidant activity and significant enzyme inhibitory properties, highlighting their potential as functional ingredients for MetS prevention. However, gastrointestinal digestion simulation influenced bioactive compound content and enzyme inhibition capacity. This study provides insights into developing tamarillo-based dietary supplements with optimized processing to preserve bioactive components.

Abstract: A study was conducted to examine cattle going through abattoirs in Sudan for evidence of contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), an important cattle disease of sub-Saharan Africa. Approximately 0.6% of cattle showed lesions resembling CBPP but the causative pathogen, Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides, could only be isolated from a small number of these cattle suggesting inhibition of isolation by irresponsible antibiotic usage before slaughter or other pathogens causing CBPP-like lesions. However, the mycoplasmas that were isolated were genetically identical to strains previously isolated from Sudan.

Abstract:

Summary This essay examines CRISPR-Cas technology, highlighting its potential and limitations in gene editing. While CRISPR enables precise DNA modifications for treating genetic diseases, its in vivo application faces major hurdles: low editing efficiency, delivery challenges, and off-target effects. Homology-directed repair (HDR) is inefficient, delivery methods are complex, and unintended mutations pose risks. A quantum-like genetic computation hypothesis suggests that CRISPR functions within a non-linear, probabilistic framework, challenging conventional methodologies. Ethical concerns include safety, consent, and legal regulation. The essay argues for a new quantum-informed research approach, integrating holistic, non-invasive methods like holistic medicine and nutrition to balance genetic interventions with natural biological processes.

Abstract: Precise forest inventory is the key to sustainable forest management. LiDAR technology is applied to tree attribute extraction widely. Therefore, this study compared DBH and tree height derived from Handheld Mobile Laser Scanning (HMLS), Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) and Integrated ALS and HMLS, and determined the applicability of integrating HMLS and ALS scanning methods to estimate individual tree attributes Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) and tree height in pine forests of South Korea. There were strong correlations for DBH at individual tree level (r &gt; 0.95; p &lt; 0.001). HMLS and Integrated ALS˗HMLS achieved high accuracy for DBH estimations, showing Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of 1.46 cm (rRMSE 3.7%) and 1.38 cm (rRMSE 3.5%), respectively. In contrast, tree height obtained from HMLS was lower than expected, showing an RMSE of 2.85 m (12.74%) along with a bias of −2.34 m. ALS data enhanced the precision of tree height estimations, achieving a root mean square error (RMSE) of 1.81 m and a bias of -1.24 m. However, integrating ALS and HMLS data resulted in the most precise of the tree height estimations with RMSEs reaching 1.43 m and bias of ˗0.3 m. Integrated ALS and HMLS and its advantages is a beneficial solution for accurate forest inventory which in turn supports forest management and planning.

Abstract: Forests, both natural and managed, provide a critical habitat to a significant part of a global diversity. Among many different groups of forest biota, trees occupy a special position. They act as foundation species that create conditions upon which the existence of virtually all other forest organisms depends, either directly or indirectly. To permanently play this role, trees must be demographically stable, i.e., their populations should be distinguished by the balanced, size-dependent proportions of individuals representing different developmental stages (from seedlings and saplings to mature and old trees). In this study, we examine the extent to which this condition is met in Białowieża Forest in northeastern Poland, an important biodiversity hotspot in Central Europe. Comparison of species-specific, equilibrium vs. actual size distributions revealed that almost half of all trees growing in Białowieża Forest represented "inappropriate", i.e. occurring in excess compared to the balanced model, species and/or diameter ranges. The amount of deficits was also large (around 30% of the current tree number), concerning primarily the smallest trees. To restore demographic balance of key tree species and thus, to enhance conservation of local biodiversity, we recommend targeted, active management strategies, including gradual removal of trees from surplus diameter ranges and assisted regeneration of species with the greatest deficiencies in small diameter classes.

Abstract: Radiation-induced bystander effects (RIBEs) are a well-known phenomenon in radiobiology that shows the impact of radiation outside the cells that are immediately irradiated. However, the understanding of RIBE in radiation therapy (RT) is still in the exploratory segment. It can reveal the intrinsic heterogeneity of the crosstalk between normal and cancerous tissues. Bystander effects cause DNA damage and altered gene expression in neighbouring cells, revealing complex signalling pathways between irradiated and unirradiated cells. Utilizing RIBE findings in the context of RT, methodologies consisting of FLASH radiotherapy and microbeam radiation therapy (MRT) are being developed. The intention is to balance unique cellular targeting against cancer as well as protecting normal tissues. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art knowledge of RIBE mechanisms in radiobiology, present an overview of existing and potential study methods, and review pioneer clinical studies in RT and RIBE-related clinical trials.

Abstract: As artificial intelligence (AI), quantum intelligence, and deep technologies advance rapidly, human cognitive flexibility, emotional resilience, and adaptability are experiencing a significant decline. AI excels in optimization, automation, and efficiency, yet has not fostered human cognitive regeneration, worse hinders well-being restorations. Mental health problems account for over $1 trillion in global productivity losses annually [1] while neurodegenerative diseases, such as dementia, are projected to cost $2.8 trillion by 2025 [2]. The World Bank estimates that AI-driven automation will displace 1.2 billion jobs by 2040 [3], further exacerbating workforce disruption and adaptability challenges. Despite the promise of AI-driven regenerative healthcare, cognitive resilience remains an unaddressed priority. This review examines the transition from efficiency-driven AI models to regenerative intelligence, focusing on human cognitive and health regeneration. Through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), we synthesize key frameworks, including the Regenerative Experience (RX) Framework, 3Rs-T Framework, and Trinity Growth Model [4], to establish a theoretical foundation for regenerative AI systems. Key policy interventions and practical applications are drawn from ASEAN’s economic regeneration strategies and systemic leadership approaches [5]. Unlike empirical studies, this review synthesizes interdisciplinary research to establish a conceptual roadmap for integrating AI with neuroplasticity, behavioral economics, and governance ethics. By embedding Regenerative Intelligence [6] into AI governance, healthcare, workforce adaptation, and education, this research proposes a paradigm shift towards AI as a catalyst for long-term human flourishing.