Risk configurations for anxiety symptoms among medical postgraduate students: A fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis.

Insights into the molecular basis of umami in premium green teas via integrated metabolomics, peptidomics, and in silico molecular docking.

BackgroundMosquitoes pose a significant threat as vectors for numerous human and animal diseases, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, including Egypt. Given the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases and the documented high densities of Culex pipiens in Assiut Governorate, there is a critical need for environmentally friendly mosquito management strategies. This study aimed to identify the morphogenetic and determine the enzymatic potential of native fungal isolates associated with mosquitoes in Assiut Governorate.ResultsEight distinct fungal species were successfully characterized based on their morphological traits and ITS rDNA sequence data. These species were identified as Alternaria tenuissima, Trichoderma hamatum, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Geotrichum candidum, and four Fusarium species (F. oxysporum, F. solani, F. equiseti, and F. incarnatum). The results of enzymatic screening emphasize that twenty-two fungal isolates belonging to eight species had the biochemical machinery substantial for cuticle degeneration, with various levels of phospholipase, lipase, protease, and chitinase activities. The strongest synergistic enzymatic profiles were notably displayed by P. lilacinum and F. equiseti.ConclusionThe extensive morphological and molecular description and enzymatic detection provide crucial promotion for evaluating the potential of these local fungal isolates for future sustainable insect pest management in the specific ecological context of Assiut Governorate.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical threat to global health and the economy. A promising strategy to address this challenge is the exploration of synergistic combinations of natural antimicrobials, which can broaden antibiotic spectra, enhance efficacy, and reduce the likelihood of resistance development. Such combinations often arise in bacteria through complex metabolic pathways encoded by biosynthetic superclusters (BSs)-genomic arrangements in which multiple biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) co-localize within the same genomic region, promoting co-regulation and co-production of specialized metabolites with complementary activities. This review provides an overview of current knowledge on biosynthetic gene superclusters in bacteria, focusing on their genomic architectures, regulatory connectivity, and the synergistic interaction profiles of the encoded metabolites as shaped by evolutionary pressures. Finally, we highlight how integrative genome-metabolome mining can be applied to discover, validate, and reprogram supercluster genes, positioning them as promising, naturally evolved platforms for the rational design of modular antimicrobial combinations to help combat AMR.

Synergistic acousto-optical profiling of morphodynamic features for smart detection of acute lymphoblastic leukemia

AChE inhibitors enhance cholinergic neurotransmission and are used to treat neurological disorders. This study synthesized novel coumarin-based selenotriazole compounds by combining coumarin, organoselenium, and 1,2,3-triazole moieties, given their antioxidant, neuroprotective, and enzyme-inhibitory effects, with the aim of achieving a synergistic pharmacological profile. They were initially evaluated via in silico molecular docking studies against AChE, using rivastigmine as a reference compound. The most promising molecules were subsequently subjected to in vitro screening to assess their inhibitory activity against AChE from the brains of female Swiss mice. Further investigations included detailed binding interaction analyses and in silico ADMET predictions. Docking simulations showed the compounds had better binding affinities than rivastigmine. In vitro assays identified five potent AChE inhibitors (7b, 7h-j, 7l), with 7b and 7j as the top candidates. Docking revealed key interactions at the enzyme's catalytic site. ADMET predictions indicated good absorption, metabolism, moderate CNS permeability, and acceptable toxicity, though hepatotoxicity and hERG II inhibition remain concerns for future study. The combination of coumarin, organoselenium, and triazole pharmacophores proved effective in modulating AChE activity, suggesting a synergistic effect among these structural units. 7b and 7j stood out in terms of both biological activity and predicted pharmacokinetic properties, establishing them as promising lead candidates for further development. Toxicological concerns highlight the importance of future structural optimization to minimize potential adverse effects. Compounds 7b and 7j are promising AChE inhibitor lead compounds for treating cholinergic disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Further in vivo studies and optimization are needed.

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) remains a critical global health challenge, characterized by impaired nutrient absorption and chronic gut inflammation. While probiotics offer a potential therapeutic avenue, the efficacy of single-strain interventions is often limited. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a Bacillus-based multi-strain probiotic consortium (MSPC) specifically tailored for PEM. Three strains—Bacillus spizizenii BAB 7915, Bacillus tequilensis, and Bacillus rugosus-were selected based on their non-antagonistic, synergistic growth profiles. The MSPC demonstrated superior functional attributes compared to individual strains, exhibiting significant proteolytic activity (0.52 ± 0.03 U/mL) and robust anti-inflammatory potential (5.33 ± 0.06 U/mL). Additionally, the consortium showed high tolerance to gastrointestinal conditions and strong antioxidant properties. These results suggest that the MSPC can effectively enhance protein hydrolysis and mitigate gut inflammation, providing a scientifically validated, low-cost formulation for the nutritional rehabilitation of PEM patients.

As one of the core advanced manufacturing technologies, additive manufacturing is of high application value in the aerospace, biomedical, and industrial component manufacturing fields. Nevertheless, current additive manufacturing materials (e.g., petroleum-based resins) face limitations such as poor stability, limited shape recovery, and insufficient mechanical properties, which restrict sustainable manufacturing progress. Inspired by the stress-dissipation mechanism in plant cell walls, we develop a cellulose-based photopolymerizable resin that delivers exceptional stiffness-deformability synergy and spatiotemporally shape memory capability. These structures integrate excellent mechanical strength and rapid recovery performance after deformation. The additive manufacturing cellulose-based photopolymerizable resin material exhibits a synergistic stiffness-deformability profile, achieving a compressive strength of 115.42 MPa and stiffness of 1404.16 MPa. These characteristics lay the foundation for specialized defense components, energy absorption systems, and spatiotemporal memory materials.

Background Chronic dacryocystitis due to nasolacrimal duct (NLD) obstruction is a common cause of epiphora and lacrimal abscess. Endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy (Endo-DCR) offers a scarless approach with outcomes comparable tothose of external dacryocystorhinostomy when performed with appropriate technique and adequate follow-up. Objectives To evaluate the surgical outcomes of Endo-DCR and to identify risk factors associated with postoperative complications and surgical failure. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted on 60 patients (18-70 years) with chronic dacryocystitis who underwent Endo-DCR. Follow-up data were collected at the end of one week, one month, three months, and six months following surgery. Success was defined as symptomatic resolution of epiphora with patent lacrimal syringing and endoscopic stomal patency at the end of six months. Fisher's exact test, independent t-test, and univariate binary logistic regression were used. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results At the end of six months, patency on lacrimal sac syringing and stomal patency on endoscopy were seen in 78.3% (n = 47/60) of patients. Immediate complications were generally mild, including nasal bleeding in 3.3% (n = 2/60) and lid edema in 8.3% (5/60). Delayed complications included granulation tissue (8.3%, n = 5/60), synechiae (6.7%, n = 4/60), and stomal closure (6.7%, n = 4/60). Failure was associated with diabetes mellitus (DM) and deviated nasal septum (both p < 0.05). Deviated nasal septum (OR: 2.52)and DM (OR: 3.05) are predominant factors predicting failure. An additional insight from this study is the pattern seen with multiple concurrent risk factors. Combinations such as DM with smoking and DM with deviated nasal septum appeared to cluster among failures, suggesting a potential synergistic risk profile rather than purely additive effects. Conclusion Primary Endo-DCR achieved a high success rate in this tertiary center cohort. Deviated nasal septum and DM were associated with failure. Highlighting the importance of risk stratification, optimization of systemic disease, and concurrent management of nasal pathology to improve outcomes.

Synergistic profile control and oil-displacement method for efficient development of heterogeneous reservoirs

During dust storms, dust particles are transported within a few kilometers above the ground. However, the dynamics and flux of dust transport at these altitudes are not fully understood. In this study, we employed a synergistic wind-particle profiling system in southern China to gather detailed vertical data on both aerosol characteristics and atmospheric dynamics during an unusually severe dust storm that transported from northern to southern China in April 2025. A measurement-driven cross-sectional method was developed to investigate the vertical distribution characteristics of transport dynamics and southward flux of dust, and to assess total amount of dust transported across the country. An intense spring cold front, combined with high dust emissions from the Gobi Desert, drove this southward transport. During the lower-level transport period, dust was primarily transported below 1.5 km, with a maximum southward flux density of 4.9 ± 2.9 g/m² at 775 m. The higher-level transport period exhibited a bimodal flux pattern. Additionally, the west-east distribution of dust concentration followed a Gaussian distribution. The total dust flux transported to southern China during the entire event was approximately 2.48 × 105 tons. Our cross-sectional approach supports quantitative investigations of the transport dynamics of various atmospheric components above the ground.

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) remains a critical global health challenge, characterized by impaired nutrient absorption and chronic gut inflammation. While probiotics offer a potential therapeutic avenue, the efficacy of single-strain interventions is often limited. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a Bacillus-based multi-strain probiotic consortium (MSPC) specifically tailored for PEM. Three strains-Bacillus spizizenii BAB 7915, Bacillus tequilensis, and Bacillus rugosus-were selected based on their non-antagonistic, synergistic growth profiles. The MSPC demonstrated superior functional attributes compared to individual strains, exhibiting significant proteolytic activity (0.52 ± 0.03 U/mL) and robust anti-inflammatory potential (5.33 ± 0.06 U/mL). Additionally, the consortium showed high tolerance to gastrointestinal conditions and strong antioxidant properties. These results suggest that the MSPC can effectively enhance protein hydrolysis and mitigate gut inflammation, providing a scientifically validated, low-cost formulation for the nutritional rehabilitation of PEM patients.

HER2-positive breast cancer is an aggressive subtype with limited therapeutic options. Trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the HER2 receptor, has improved clinical outcomes; however, its efficacy remains a critical challenge in the HER2-positive model. This study investigated the potential of chrysin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, to enhance the efficacy of trastuzumab in HER2-positive SKBR3 and BT-474 breast cancer cells. The effects of chrysin and trastuzumab, alone or in combination, were evaluated in SKBR3 and BT-474 cells. Cell viability was evaluated using an MTT assay, and the combination index (CI) value was determined using Compusyn software. Apoptosis and HER2 expression were analyzed by flow cytometry. The morphological characteristics of apoptosis were evaluated using the DAPI-TUNEL staining. Protein expression of STAT3 and PDL-1 was detected by western blotting. Real-time PCR was employed to quantify the angiogenesis-related genes. Chrysin enhanced the anticancer effects of trastuzumab, achieving an optimal combination index (CI) of 0.39 in SKBR3 cells and a similarly strong synergistic profile in BT-474 cells (CI = 0.54). Chrysin synergistically enhanced trastuzumab-induced apoptosis in both cell lines (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). Trastuzumab significantly reduced HER2 expression on SKBR3 and BT-474 cells (p < 0.001) and, surprisingly, chrysin also reduced HER2 expression in a significant manner (p < 0.001). Combination therapy further intensified this effect in SKBR3 and BT-474 cells (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). Additionally, the combination therapy significantly decreased p-STAT3 and PD-L1 protein levels in SKBR3 and reduced mRNA levels of Tie2 and VEGFR2 in both cell lines. Chrysin synergistically enhances the efficacy of trastuzumab in HER2-positive SKBR3 and BT-474 breast cancer cells. These findings warrant further investigation in immune-competent and in vivo models to assess clinical applicability and underlying mechanisms.

Inflammation, while a critical component of the body’s defense mechanism, has emerged as a double-edged sword in modern medicine. Acute inflammation is protective, yet chronic, low-grade inflammation underlies a spectrum of diseases ranging from cardiovascular disorders and type 2 diabetes to neurodegenerative conditions and cancer. The scientific community has been actively seeking natural, safe, and effective anti-inflammatory agents, and one candidate with remarkable potential is Amla (Emblica officinalis), also known as the Indian gooseberry. For centuries, Amla has held a prominent place in Ayurvedic medicine, revered for its “rasayana” (rejuvenating) properties. Modern biomedical research is now validating what traditional healers have long claimed—that Amla is a powerhouse of bioactive compounds with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. The fruit is exceptionally rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins such as emblicanin A and emblicanin B, which together form a synergistic pharmacological profile. Mechanistically, Amla influences inflammation at multiple levels. Its antioxidant capacity neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby preventing oxidative stress–driven activation of inflammatory pathways. Research demonstrates that Amla extracts modulate key signaling cascades such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), both central to the transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Furthermore, Amla appears to suppress cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, reducing prostaglandin and nitric oxide production, which are pivotal in sustaining inflammation. Beyond its molecular effects, clinical studies have shown that Amla supplementation can lower markers of systemic inflammation, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), in populations with metabolic syndrome and dyslipidemia. Its lipid-lowering, glycemic control, and endothelial-protective actions add further indirect benefits in conditions where inflammation plays a central role. These findings are particularly relevant in resource-limited settings, where safe, cost-effective interventions are needed to manage chronic inflammatory diseases. However, despite promising laboratory and small-scale clinical data, large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) remain scarce. This gap limits the integration of Amla into mainstream anti-inflammatory therapy. Another challenge lies in the variability of phytochemical content based on cultivation conditions, processing methods, and dosage forms. Standardization of extracts, identification of optimal therapeutic doses, and long-term safety profiling are essential before Amla can transition from a functional food to a recognized therapeutic agent. In the current era of escalating interest in plant-based medicine, Amla stands out as a prime candidate for deeper investigation. It offers the possibility of a multi-target, low-toxicity intervention against the silent epidemic of chronic inflammation. Integrating Amla into dietary recommendations, functional foods, and even combination pharmacotherapy could open new avenues for preventive and therapeutic strategies. The message is clear: Emblica officinalis is more than a traditional fruit—it is a scientifically validated, biologically active tool against inflammation. What is now required is a collaborative effort between ethnobotanists, pharmacologists, and clinical researchers to unlock its full therapeutic potential. As the global burden of inflammation-linked diseases grows, ignoring such a natural, cost-effective ally would be a missed opportunity in the pursuit of holistic, sustainable healthcare.

Flavonoid-mediated metabolic underpinning quality variation in red bud-sport pear mutants.

A series of arylhydrazones of imidazodiazabicycloalkanones was synthesized via nucleophilic addition of oxazole-5(4H)-one-based arylhydrazones to terminal diamines. Their stability under alkaline conditions was supported by UV-vis spectroscopic studies, simulating environments associated with bacterial growth. Antibacterial screening revealed synthesized compounds exhibited pronounced activity. In particular, 4-Cl phenyl substituted imidazopyrimidinone showed strong inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus 209P, while 4-Br phenyl substituted imidazoimidazolone demonstrated potent activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa V-31, comparable to kanamycin and tetracycline. A synergistic effect was observed for 4-Cl phenyl substituted imidazopyrimidinone in combination with tetracycline. ADMET analysis indicated good gastrointestinal absorption, moderate-to-high oral bioavailability, and low predicted toxicity for most compounds. Molecular docking studies are in harmony with the experimental findings: 4-Cl phenyl substituted both imidazopyrimidinone and imidazoimidazolone confirmed activity to S. aureus, while 4-Br phenyl substituted imidazodiazabicycloalkanones were active against P. aeruginosa. Overall, this study highlights the potential of selected arylhydrazones as promising leads for the development of novel antibacterial agents with both direct and synergistic activity profiles supported by in vitro and in silico data.

To evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity of extracts and compounds from Trichilia catigua against clinically relevant Candida species, notably Candida glabrata, and investigate possible mechanisms of action using electron microscopy and in silico techniques. Extracts and fractions of T. catigua were obtained through turboextraction and partitioning, while the isolated compounds were previously purified. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) was characterized by HPLC. Antifungal activity against C. glabrata was evaluated through MIC tests, synergism was assessed via checkerboard assays, and structural changes were analyzed via electron microscopy. Molecular docking was performed to identify potential targets of action. The EAF and isolated compounds (cinchonains and procyanidin B2) exhibited significant activity against C. glabrata, with MICs of 9.76 µg/mL (EAF) and 3.9 µg/mL (cinchonains Ia and Ib). Cinchonain Ib combined with epicatechin or procyanidin B2 displayed synergistic effects, particularly with amphotericin B. Microscopy analysis revealed cell membrane damage, and reverse docking analysis suggested that the compounds may target an enzyme essential to the metabolic processes of C. glabrata. The findings suggest that compounds isolated from T. catigua hold considerable potential for developing new antifungal agents against Candida species, particularly C. glabrata, with promising safety and synergistic profiles.

Pre-digestion of corn straw with kitchen waste improves synergistic methanogenic profiles at different carbon-to-nitrogen ratios

The development of low-porosity and low-permeability oil reservoirs in the Changqing oilfield presents a significant challenge due to the high injection pressure and limited space for profile control and pressure raising. Therefore, the synergistic profile control and flooding technology of polymer microspheres (PMs) and nanoemulsions is proposed, which makes use of the plugging performance of PMs and the pressure-reducing and oil-driving properties of nanoemulsions, with the objective of controlling the water-absorbing profile and increasing the recovery rate. The paper assessed the properties of nanoemulsions and PMs and evaluated their suitability for reservoirs. The construction parameters of profile control and flooding were optimized on an experimental basis. The experimental results demonstrate that the initial particle size of microspheres can more closely match the pore diameter of the formation and that the core exhibits a higher plugging rate after hydration and expansion. Moreover, the nanoemulsion can effectively reduce the interfacial tension, thereby exerting a beneficial effect on pressure reduction. The construction parameters of microspheres and nanoemulsions were optimized by alternately injecting them with 2:1 multistage plugs, and the injected pressure was lowered by 43%, with a high plugging rate and value-added recovery rate of up to 26.5%. Based on the experimental study, 8 well sets of field tests were conducted, and the results demonstrated that the efficiency rate of profile control reached 50%. Furthermore, the average injection pressure of the injected wells decreased by 1.7 MPa, the rise in water content decreased by 2.27%, and the petroleum production increased by 1110.2 tons. The validity period reached 162 days, indicating a positive application effect.

The present work aimed to develop, characterize, and evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of two nanoemulsions (NEs) containing 500 µg/mL of curcumin from Curcuma longa (CUR). These NEs, produced with heating, contain olive oil (5%) and the surfactants tween 80 (5%) and span 80 (2.5%), water q.s. 100 mL, and were stable for 120 days. NE-2-CUR presented Ø of 165.40 ± 2.56 nm, PDI of 0.254, ζ of − 33.20 ± 1.35 mV, pH of 6.49, and Entrapment Drug Efficiency (EE) of 99%. The NE-4-CUR showed a Ø of 105.70 ± 4.13 nm, PDI of 0.459, ζ of − 32.10 ± 1.45 mV, pH of 6.40 and EE of 99.29%. Structural characterization was performed using DRX and FTIR, thermal characterization using DSC and TG, and morphological characterization using SEM, suggesting that there is no significant change in the CUR present in the NEs and that they remain stable. The MIC was performed by the broth microdilution method for nine gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as Klebsiella pneumoniae clinical isolates resistant to antibiotics and biofilm and efflux pump producers. The NEs mostly showed a bacteriostatic profile. The MIC varied between 125 and 250 µg/mL. The most sensitive bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis, for which NE-2-CUR showed a MIC of 125 µg/mL. The NEs and ceftazidime (CAZ) interaction was also evaluated against the K. pneumoniae resistant clinical isolates using the Checkerboard method. NE-2-CUR and NE-4-CUR showed a synergistic or additive profile; there was a reduction in CAZ MICs between 256 times (K26-A2) and 2 times (K29-A2). Furthermore, the NEs inhibited these isolates biofilms formation. The NEs showed a MBIC ranging from 15.625 to 250 µg/mL. Thus, the NEs showed physicochemical characteristics suitable for future clinical trials, enhancing the CAZ antibacterial and antibiofilm activity, thus becoming a promising strategy for the treatment of bacterial infections caused by multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae.Key points• The NEs showed physicochemical characteristics suitable for future clinical trials.• The NEs showed a synergistic/additive profile, when associated with ceftazidime.• The NEs inhibited biofilm formation of clinical isolates.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00253-024-13057-x.