Abstract: Background: Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease that predominantly affects women and lasts over several months, causing problems both to individuals and society. While several studies have demonstrated the potential of electroacupuncture (EA) to alleviate fibromyalgia pain in mice, further research is needed to investigate its underlying mechanisms. Programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1)/PD-1 was first identified to be involved in cancer immunotherapy, but its application to pain management has not been yet investigated. Methods: This study aimed to explore the mechanism underlying action of PD-L1 on PD-1 pathway in a mouse model of fibromyalgia. Results: We established such a mouse model using intermittent cold stress (ICS) and confirmed mechanical (D4: 2.02 ± 0.13 g, n = 9) and thermal (D4: 4.28 ± 0.21 s, n = 9) hyperalgesia. We found that EA, intracerebral ventricle (ICV) PD-L1 injection, or transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (Trpv1) knockout effectively counteracted hyperalgesia. We observed low PD-1 expression in the cerebellum of fibromyalgia mice but increased expression of TRPV1 and pain-related kinases. These phenomena could be further reversed by EA, ICV PD-L1 injection, and Trpv1 knockout. To confirm that these effects were caused by PD-L1 release, we added PD-L1 neutralizing antibodies to the EA and PD-L1 treatment. The analgesic effects and EA and PD-L1 mechanisms were inhibited. Conclusions: Our results elucidate the role of the PD-L1/PD-1 pathway in EA treatment of fibromyalgia and reveal its potential value for fibromyalgia.

Abstract:

While industrial scale dairy fermentations often employ pasteurized milk as the substrate, many farmhouse and traditional production practices apply raw milk derived from a variety of mammals. Certain artisanal production systems rely on the autochthonous microbiota of the milk, fermentation vessels, equipment and/or environment to initiate milk coagulation. While the technological properties of lactic acid bacteria associated with dairy fermentations are well described, their interactions with other organisms during fermentation and cheese ripening are poorly investigated. This study presents an overview of the microbial ecology of raw and pasteurized milk used in the production of cheeses. Furthermore, we report on the motility phenotype, lactose utilization ability and metabolic products of isolates of Hafnia paralvei and Hafnia alvei, and determine that these strains could grow in a non-antagonistic manner on plates with strains of Lactococcus lactis and Streptococcus thermophilus. As artisanal and farmhouse production systems are often associated with protected or regionally significant products, it is essential to develop a clear understanding of the microbial communities within and the complex relationships between the community members.

Abstract: Penicillium expansum inflicts significant economic damage in the fruit and vegetable industry due to its wide distribution and ability to infect a diverse range of hosts. Therefore, developing safe and environmentally sustainable strategies to suppress the growth of this pathogen is of critical importance. Bacillus subtilis, recognized for its broad antimicrobial activity and widespread occurrence, has been widely utilized in the biological management of plant diseases. This research seeks to assess the inhibitory potential of B. subtilis against P. expansum. The cell-free supernatant (CFS) derived from B. subtilis significantly suppresses the germination spores, germ tube extension, and hyphal development of P. expansum. It also reduces disease incidence in grapes and citrus and suppresses the expansion of lesions. Further investigate had shown that it can induced mycelium reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, destroyed the cell membrane integrity, led to leakage of cytoplasmic contents and induced membrane lipid peroxidation. Moreover, exposure to high concentrations of CFS results in mycelial contraction and morphological abnormalities, triggering the disintegration of intracellular organelles and markedly upregulating the expression of apoptosis-associated genes. The self-protective response elicited by 5% CFS is insufficient to counteract the extent of cellular damage, ultimately driving cells toward a dynamic, multistage, and disintegrative form of cell death. The findings of this study offer a theoretical foundation for managing P. expansum after harvest.

Abstract: Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid essential for human health, is highly prone to oxidation in nanoemulsions due to their large interfacial area and presence of transition metal ions. This study investigated macroalgal chelators for stabilizing DHA-rich nanoemulsions. Sequential enzymatic–alkaline extraction using Alcalase® produced an extract with the strongest Fe2+-chelating activity (IC50 = 1.22 mg/mL), protein content of 10.11 ± 0.15%, and total phenolics ≈17 µg GAE/mL. This extract was incorporated into nanoemulsions (5 wt% DHA oil, 1 wt% Tween® 20) at 0.61, 1.22, and 2.44 mg/mL and compared with controls containing EDTA (0.025 mg/mL) or no antioxidant. Droplet size remained stable (D3,2 ≈ 77-80 nm; D4,3 ≈ 199-215 nm) and zeta potential averaged -17 to -19 mV, confirming physical stability. Confocal microscopy revealed concentration-dependent interfacial adsorption of extract components. During iron-accelerated storage, extract-treated nanoemulsions slowed hydroperoxide formation and delayed tocopherol depletion compared to the control, while reducing volatile oxidation markers such as 1-penten-3-ol by up to 40%. However, EDTA consistently provided superior protection against oxidation. These findings highlight the potential of macroalgal extracts as clean-label, natural chelators for mitigating metal-driven oxidation in DHA nanoemulsions, though synthetic chelators remain more effective under severe prooxidant conditions.

Abstract: Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are among the most common genetic causes of Parkinson’s disease (PD), yet substantial heterogeneity exists among pathogenic variants. How mutations in distinct functional domains of LRRK2 differentially perturb cellular homeostasis remains incompletely understood. Here, we compared two pathogenic LRRK2 mutations—G2019S in the kinase domain and I1371V in the GTPase domain—across multiple cellular models, including SH-SY5Y and U87 cells, and healthy human iPSC-derived floor plate cells. We demonstrate that the I1371V mutation induces markedly more severe cellular dysfunction than G2019S. I1371V-expressing cells exhibited elevated LRRK2 autophosphorylation at S1292 and robust hyperphosphorylation of Rab8A and Rab10, indicating enhanced downstream signaling. These alterations impaired sterol trafficking, leading to selective depletion of plasma membrane cholesterol without changes in total cellular cholesterol. Consequently, I1371V cells displayed increased membrane fluidity, disrupted microdomain organization, altered membrane topology, reduced Caveolin-1 expression, and impaired dopamine transporter surface expression and dopamine uptake. Lipidomic profiling further revealed broad disruption of lipid homeostasis, including reductions in cholesteryl esters, sterols, sphingolipids, and glycerophospholipids, whereas G2019S cells showed comparatively modest changes. Pharmacological intervention revealed mutation-specific responses, with the non-selective LRRK2 modulator GW5074 outperforming the kinase-selective inhibitor MLi-2 in restoring Rab8A phosphorylation, membrane integrity, and dopaminergic function. Collectively, these findings identify membrane lipid dysregulation as a central cell-biological mechanism in LRRK2-associated PD and underscore the importance of variant-specific therapeutic strategies.

Abstract:

Background: Diabetes among adults is becoming a major public health crisis in the United States. Numerous authors have documented the rising prevalence of diabetes, with notable variations found within the United States at the census level, state, and county levels. Yet, there is a need to understand whether diabetes prevalence varies between urban centers within a particular state. Methods: This ecological study provides a longitudinal investigation of the prevalence of adult diabetes across five major metropolitan urban areas in Texas (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio) from 2011 to 2023. By utilizing data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and statistical testing, we evaluate both the temporal trajectory and city-level geographic disparities of diabetes prevalence. Findings: Upon aggregating all five urban centers, the findings demonstrate a significant statewide increase (β=0.12, P=0.026) in diabetes prevalence over the thirteen-year study period. Furthermore, profound regional variations were observed, with San Antonio having a significantly (P<0.05) higher prevalence than Austin, Dallas, and Fort Worth, with the San Antonio area exhibiting the highest mean prevalence at 12.1% and the Austin area maintaining the lowest at 9%. Interpretation: This research emphasizes the necessity for synchronized public health policies that account for localized contexts while addressing the broader metabolic crisis facing the Texas urban corridor.

Abstract: Potyviruses express their genome as a single large open reading frame, translated into a polyprotein that is post-translationally cleaved by three virus-encoded proteases into 10 functional proteins. Several of these potyviral proteins, including nuclear inclusion protein b (NIb), are multifunctional. Here, using the classic GFP silencing in Nicotiana benthamiana gfp-transgenic plants model, we show that NIb, in addition to its canonical role as the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP), functions as a suppressor of RNA silencing. Mutational analyses revealed a previously unreported NIb nuclear localization signal (NLS) consisting of a triple-lysine motif, and NIb suppression of RNA silencing activity was lost when this novel NLSs were mutated, suggesting that nuclear localization is required for NIb suppression of RNA silencing activity. Analysis of sequenced GFP siRNAs revealed three prominent siRNA hotspots at ≈nt 175, ≈320–330, and 560–700 nt. These data showed that there were differences in the positional distribution of the siRNAs between samples expressing NIb and those expressing NIbDel3x2, the NIb null mutant that does not suppress RNA silencing. However, there was no increase in the transcript‑wide siRNA burden between the two treatments. Furthermore, NIb was found to interact with four key RNA silencing pathway proteins—AGO4, HSP70, HSP90, and SGS3. Except for HSP90, each of these proteins showed degradation products that were absent in NIb mutants that did not suppress RNA silence. These findings support a role for NIb in countering host defense during virus infection.

Abstract:

This study aimed to analyze the effect of reduced water potential on the imbibition curve and triphasic pattern of seeds in several Solanaceae species. The experiment was conducted at the Seed Physiology and Health Laboratory and the Seed Biology and Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Bogor Agricultural University, from April to September 2025. The study used seeds from three Solanaceae crops—chili (Capsicum annuum L., varieties Simpatik and Sempurna), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L., varieties Niki and Rempai), and eggplant (Solanum melongena L., varieties Tangguh and Provita). The seeds were subjected to various levels of osmotic stress using polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) to simulate water potentials of 0.00, –0.30, –1.90, and –4.10 MPa. Lower water potential in the growing medium reduced the seed’s ability to absorb the water. The triphasic pattern consistently appeared only in chili seeds, whereas in tomatoes and eggplants, it varied across varieties and water potential conditions. The lower water potential made the later the phase I ended, and the longer the phase II lasted. These findings confirm that the standard imbibition pattern cannot be generalized to all seeds, and therefore, the imbibition response is specific to seed type, variety, and germination environment.

Abstract: Background: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a significant health issue among ageing men, with ongoing research focused on elucidating its underlying mechanisms and improving experimental models. Testosterone Propionate (TP) is the first line of choice for the induction of BPH in experimental rodent models. However, TP's controlled status as a Schedule III drug in the United States and a Class C drug in the UK presents challenges in obtaining TP for experimental use, giving preference to the sulpiride model since it is easily obtained as an alternative for the induction and study of BPH. Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science. The primary PubMed search strategy included combinations of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and free-text terms: (“Benign prostatic hyperplasia induction” OR ‘’ and rodent models’’) AND (“Testosterone Propionate model” ) AND (“sulpiride model”). Studies were included if they induced BPH (using testosterone or sulpiride models). Titles and abstracts were screened for relevance; eligible articles underwent full-text review, with data extracted thematically. No formal risk-of-bias scoring was used due to the narrative approach; instead, studies were appraised by design, rigor, plausibility, and evidence. This study reviewed published and publicly available data, so no ethical approval was required. Results: Although both TP and sulpiride induce BPH via various mechanisms, this review provides a comparative analysis of these two commonly utilised models for studying BPH. In the TP approach, castrated rodents receive daily subcutaneous injections for 4 weeks, resulting in dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-mediated epithelial hyperplasia predominantly affecting the ventral prostate lobes. Conversely, the sulpiride model is non-invasive, employs intact animals treated with sulpiride, and induces hyperprolactinemia-mediated BPH via interactions with androgen and oestrogen receptor pathways that stimulate prostatic stromal and epithelial proliferation, particularly in the lateral and dorsal lobes, representing an alternative method. We also highlight the strengths and limitations of TP and sulpiride in replicating clinical symptoms and examine the toxicological effects of sulpiride on the kidney, testis, liver, and brain. Conclusions: we recommend the sulpiride model for the induction and studying of BPH, as it is readily accessible and closely mimics the pathogenesis of BPH in humans, unlike the TP model, which requires castration.

Abstract: Stroke has been a topic of extensive research due to its debilitating consequences and high mortality. New findings offer a deeper understanding of specific factors that affect post-stroke recovery and identify therapies that may facilitate this process. One such factor was microglia, neuronal immune cells that are highly reactive to cytokines in the neuroenvironment and can, in turn, affect the inflammatory cascades that originate after stroke, making them ideal candidates for immunomodulation in the brain. Many FDA-approved immunotherapies have been found to target distinct inflammatory signaling molecules and responders, including IL-6 inhibitors, IL-13 inhibitors, IL-12/IL-23 inhibitors, B-cell modulators, Type I interferon inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, Calcineurin inhibitors, Complement inhibitors, and JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors. The FDA-approved immunotherapies discussed in this review demonstrate potential in modulating the immune response after stroke by targeting key inflammatory pathways involved in secondary brain injury. Future research should focus on defining optimal therapeutic windows, identifying suitable patient populations, determining the most appropriate timing of therapy, and targeting specific immune mechanisms to balance the attenuation of harmful inflammation with the preservation of reparative processes.

Abstract: Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is an important biopolymer produced by various species of Bacillus. Novel γ-PGA producers have shown strain-dependent nutritional and culture requirement that must be characterised and optimised to improve γ-PGA yields. The optimal nutritional and cultural condition for maximum γ-PGA titre in a newly identified γ-PGA producing strain Bacillus licheniformis DPC6338 was determined using one factor at a time (OFAT) and design of experiments (DOE). The optimal nutritional and culture condition for maximum γ–PGA titre in B. licheniformis DPC6338 was 67g/L glutamic acid, 32g/L tryptone, 75g/L glucose, 5g/L citric acid, 2g/L K₂HPO₄, 0.5g/L MgSO₄·7H₂O, 0.02 g/L FeCl₂·4H₂O, 0.1g/L CaCl₂·2H₂O, 0.5 g/L MnSO₄·H₂O, 2g/L ZnSO₄·7H₂O, 42°C, pH 6.5 – 7.0, 1% inoculum, at 250 rpm. Under optimised conditions in shake flask, maximum γ–PGA titre 75.35 ± 0.38 was obtained after 96h while peak productivity of 1.3 g/L/h occurred at 48 h, representing a 27% and 4% improvement in titre and productivity compared to the screening medium. Scale-up to bioreactor conditions significantly enhanced the final titre γ-PGA and early-phase volumetric productivity by ~30% and ~80% respectively. The results obtained in this study highlight the potential of B. licheniformis DPC6338 for industrial γ-PGA producing strain.

Abstract: Addiction is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterised by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. Ketamine a dissociative anaesthetic increasingly misused among young people has become a global public health concern, necessitating the search for effective neuroprotective interventions. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) a glutathione precursor with antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties, has shown promise in mitigating substance-induced neurotoxicity. This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of NAC on ketamine induced cerebellar alterations in Wistar rats. Sixty adult Wistar rats (120–150 g) were randomly assigned to six groups. Group A received distilled water (control); Groups B and C received NAC (500 or 1000 mg/kg, orally) Group D received ketamine (15 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) while Groups E and F received ketamine followed by NAC (500 or 1000 mg/kg, respectively). Ketamine was administered for 10 days followed by NAC treatment from days 11 to 24. Behavioural assessments including open-field Y-maze, and catalepsy tests, were conducted on day 25. Animals were then euthanised for biochemical analyses of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) malondialdehyde (MDA), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and interleukins IL-1 beta, IL-6, and IL-10. Cerebellar tissues were processed for histological evaluation. Ketamine exposure induced hyperlocomotion, increased rearing, working memory deficits, oxidative stress, and elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines, with a concomitant reduction in anti-inflammatory markers. NAC treatment at both doses significantly attenuated these behavioural and biochemical disturbances. Histological examination revealed marked cerebellar neurodegeneration, including Purkinje and granule cell loss, in ketamine-treated rats, whereas NAC particularly at 1000 mg/kg largely preserved cerebellar cytoarchitecture. In conclusion, NAC exerted significant neuroprotective effects against ketamine-induced behavioural, biochemical, and structural cerebellar damage in rats, supporting its potential therapeutic relevance in mitigating ketamine-related neurotoxicity.

Abstract: Melanoma, a highly aggressive and metastatic cancer, poses significant challenges due to its propensity to spread to distant organs, with brain metastasis representing a particularly devastating complication. This review synthesizes recent advances in understanding the molecular, cellular, and microenvironmental mechanisms driving melanoma metastasis, with a specific emphasis on brain metastasis. We explore the unique challenges of brain metastasis, including blood-brain barrier penetration, brain-specific microenvironment interactions, and genomic distinctions. Advances in diagnostic tools, such as imaging and liquid biopsies, are discussed alongside current and emerging therapeutic strategies, including novel small molecules, immunotherapies, and combination approaches tailored for brain metastases. The review also highlights the immunological landscape of the brain, translational models, and multidisciplinary clinical management strategies. Finally, we identify critical research gaps, including the need for brain metastasis-specific clinical trials, AI-driven predictive models, and preventive strategies, to guide future efforts in improving outcomes for patients with melanoma brain metastasis.

Abstract: As a high-yield and fast-growing novel forage, Juncao (Cenchrus fungigraminus) holds significant potential for feed applications. Appropriate processing methods can effectively enhance the feeding efficacy of Juncao silage and reduce feed costs for farmers and herdsmen. In this study, Juncao at three different heights (1.0–1.5 m, 1.5–2.0 m, and 2.0–2.5 m) was selected for silage fermentation to determine the optimal harvesting height. Additionally, Juncao at a height of 2.5–3.0 m, which possesses the highest cellulose content, was selected for cellulose degradation analysis to evaluate the degradation efficiency of conventional silage additives on fiber content.The results indicated that the fiber content of Juncao silage was significantly positively correlated with growth height, whereas crude protein and crude fat contents showed a significant negative correlation. Furthermore, the total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) and lactic acid contents reached their peak in the 2.0–2.5 m (High) group. Cellulose degradation analysis revealed that the degradation rates of various cellulose components were higher under natural fermentation conditions compared to treatments with silage additives. However, further research is required to explore whether specific additives tailored for Juncao silage exist. Based on this experimental analysis, it can be concluded that utilizing 2.0–2.5 m Juncao for natural fermentation during the ensiling process can effectively improve nutritional composition and fermentation quality while achieving a higher cellulose degradation rate. Nonetheless, subsequent studies are necessary to refine and establish a complete and scientific methodology for Juncao silage production.

Abstract: Neospora caninum, the causative agent of abortion in cattle, has a major economic impact worldwide. This review aims to provide an overview of key advances of the last 5-8 years in understanding host-pathogen interactions, molecular mechanisms, and emerging control strategies. Epidemiological studies have revealed the influence of environmental, genetic, and ecological factors on parasite transmission dynamics, and emphasized the importance of integrated "One Health" strategies. Characteristics of different Neospora strains have been elucidated through animal models and molecular tools such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9)-based gene editing, high-throughput sequencing and advanced proteomics, aiming to shed light on stage-specific gene regulation and virulence factors, contributing to the development of interventions against neosporosis. Insights into immune modulation, immune evasion and parasite persistence contributed to the efforts towards vaccine development. In terms of therapeutics, repurposed drugs but also more targeted inhibitors have shown promising efficacy in reducing parasite burden and mitigating vertical transmission in laboratory models. Here, more recent innovations in nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems and immunomodulatory strategies are prone to enhance therapeutic outcomes. However, a significant challenge remains the integration of molecular and immunological insights into practical applications.

Abstract: Background: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is an irreversible interstitial lung disease in which TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway plays a critical role in pathogenesis. Thymus species are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may suppress PF by modulating this pathway. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential antifi-brotic effects of Thymus syriacus essential oil (TS) on TGF-β/SMAD pathway in bleomycin-induced PF. Metods: PF was induced with bleomycin and TS was administered at concentrations of 50 and 100 mg/ml for 28 days. At the end of the experiment, mRNA and protein levels of TGF-β, Smad2, Col1, and α-SMA in lung tissues were analyzed using real-time PCR and ELISA. TNF-α levels in BALF were measured by ELISA, while tissue ROS levels were determined using 2,7-DHCFDA. Histopathological evaluation was performed using Hematoxylin-Eosin and Masson’s-trichrome staining. Blood samples were ana-lyzed for kidney, liver, and cardiac toxicity markers. The chemical composition of TS was determined by GC-MS. Results: TS-treated groups showed increased body weight and sig-nificantly reduced levels of TGF-β, Smad2, Col1, α-SMA, TNF-α, and ROS compared to the BLM group. PF alterations were markedly attenuated by TS treatment. Carvacrol was identified as major constituent of TS. Conclusion: Overall, TS alleviates pulmonary fibro-sis by suppressing the TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling pathway.

Abstract: Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1-2% of children worldwide, yet its etiology remains incompletely understood. Emerging evidence suggests that offspring of parents with autoimmune diseases show elevated autism prevalence. Notably, children of parents with psoriasis (OR 1.59), type 1 diabetes (OR 1.49-2.36), and rheumatoid arthritis (OR 1.51) demonstrate particularly strong associations.Hypothesis: I propose that autism is fundamentally an immune-metabolic disorder characterized by TNF-α-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction leading to cerebral energy deficiency. This energy deficit impairs three critical processes: (1) synaptic pruning during neurodevelopment, (2) real-time social cognition including gaze processing and emotion recognition, and (3) protein synthesis of critical synaptic scaffolding molecules. The primary mechanism involves TNF-α pathway dysregulation—through genetic inheritance from parents with autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis, type 1 diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis, and/or through direct fetal exposure to elevated maternal TNF-α during pregnancy. I further propose that the well-documented "firstborn effect" in autism reflects maternal immune maladaptation during primigravid pregnancies. Additionally, for cases without parental autoimmune history, I propose a speculative secondary mechanism: mitonuclear immune conflict, where paternal immune genes may partially recognize maternal mitochondria as non-self, generating endogenous TNF-α. Implications: This hypothesis unifies disparate observations about autism pathophysiology and suggests that anti-inflammatory interventions targeting the TNF-α pathway may have therapeutic potential, particularly when administered early in neurodevelopment.

Abstract: FAM3A, FAM3B, FAM3C and FAM3D are members of “family with sequence similarity 3” (FAM3) gene family, an emerging class of cytokine-like proteins with a unique structural globular beta-beta-alpha fold and distinct biological functions. With widespread expression in tissue, organs and in many cell types, their specific roles in human diseases have been the focus of much research. FAM3A acts as a positive regulator of metabolic health, typically activating canonical pro-survival and metabolic pathways. FAM3B, also called PANDER (PANcreatic DERived Factor) exerts critical physiological functions in the regulation of glycemic levels via promotion of hepatic glucose production and pancreatic beta-cell insulin secretion. FAM3C, also named ILEI (Interleukin-like EMT inducer), is involved as inducer of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer metastasis, as well as osteoblast differentiation and bone mineralization. FAM3D is a gut secreted protein and potential regulator of gastrointestinal homeostasis and microbiota-induced inflammation. Here we provide an overview of previous studies supporting that FAM3 proteins can binding to putative membrane receptors and co-partners, including Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR), Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Receptor (LIFR), Formyl Peptide Receptor (FPR1/2), to activate diverse downstream signaling pathways on different cellular contexts. Basic and clinical studies suggest that FAM3 family influence both obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders, thus its expression may have diagnostic potential. The differential and often cancer-specific expression patterns make members of the FAM3 family promising candidates for biomarkers and therapeutic targets of some types of neoplasia.

Abstract: Wheat production in Zimbabwe is strongly influenced by environmental variability, making it difficult for breeders to identify genotypes that are both high yielding and stable across locations. This study evaluated the yield performance and stability of pre-release bread wheat genotypes across contrasting environments in Zimbabwe. A total of 25 genotypes in 2020 and 24 genotypes in 2021 were tested using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at three sites Gwebi Variety Testing Centre (GVTC), Harare Research Station (DR&SS), and Panmure, forming six test environments across two winter seasons. Grain yield and key agronomic traits were recorded and analyzed using combined analysis of variance, correlation analysis, and genotype plus genotype-by-environment (GGE) biplot methods. The combined analysis of variance revealed highly significant (p < 0.001) effects of location on all traits in both years, confirming strong environmental influence on wheat performance. Genotypic differences were also significant for most traits in each season. In 2020, genotype × location interaction for grain yield and grain weight was not significant, indicating relatively stable genotype ranking across environments. In contrast, significant genotype × location interaction in 2021 demonstrated strong crossover effects, with genotypes responding differently across sites. When the 15 genotypes common to both years were analyzed together, genotype × location interaction for grain yield was again not significant, indicating that this subset of genotypes expressed greater yield stability across environments. GGE biplot analysis revealed clear differences in genotype adaptation and stability. The mean versus stability view identified G10 and G4 as high yielding with moderate stability, while G5 and G8 were closest to the ideal genotype, combining high yield and wide adaptation. The which-won-where pattern separated the test environments into two main mega-environments, with G3 and G10 performing best in GVTC- and Harare-based environments, while G4, G5, and G8 were superior at Panmure-related environments. Environment E3 (Harare 2020) was identified as the most representative and closest to an ideal test environment, while E1, E2, E5, and E6 were more discriminating and useful for detecting genotype differences. The findings of this study demonstrated that both yield level and stability must be considered when selecting wheat genotypes for Zimbabwe. Genotypes G5 and G8 showed the best combination of high grain yield and stability and are therefore recommended for broad adaptation. Genotypes such as G3 showed high yield but strong environmental sensitivity and are better suited for specific environments. These findings provide valuable guidance for wheat breeding and variety recommendation in Zimbabwe’s diverse production environments.

Abstract:

Fermented foods are increasingly recognized for their potential to support gut and brain health via microbiome modulation. However, most research focuses on isolated probiotics or lab-prepared products, leaving limited evidence for real-world fermented foods with live bacteria. This study evaluated the effects of three commercially available fermented foods—dairy kefir, coconut kefir, and fermented red cabbage and beetroot—on gastrointestinal, cognitive, and emotional outcomes in healthy adults. Over a 4-week randomized controlled intervention, cognitive function was assessed using the CANTAB, emotional health via validated self-report measures, and stool samples analysed using the Genova Diagnostics GI Effects test. Dairy kefir improved decision-making, sustained attention, working memory, reduced depression, anxiety and stress. The coconut kefir reduced waiting impulsivity, enhanced short-term memory, improved total mood, and increased butyrate-associated commensals, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., and Anaerotruncus colihominis, alongside elevated butyrate levels. The fermented red cabbage and beetroot improved sustained attention, working memory, reduced stress, improved total mood, and increased both butyrate and propionate. In contrast, the control group showed a rise in Fusobacterium spp. These findings support fermented foods as functional dietary interventions for gut–brain health.