The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
22 pages, 559 KiB  
Article
Public Dental Service Access Policies for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil: A Pre-Evaluation Study
by Ednaldo de Jesus-Filho, Sandra Garrido de Barros, Maria Isabel Pereira Vianna and Maria Cristina Teixeira Cangussu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 555; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050555 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study sought to carry out a systematic and preliminary evaluation of the policies on access to public dental services for people with ASD in a Brazilian city. The study, conducted between November/2019 and February/2020, was developed through document analysis, the design of [...] Read more.
This study sought to carry out a systematic and preliminary evaluation of the policies on access to public dental services for people with ASD in a Brazilian city. The study, conducted between November/2019 and February/2020, was developed through document analysis, the design of the theoretical logical model of the policies, and seven semi-structured interviews with key informants. The sample was intentionally selected. We also considered the answers to 108 questionnaires from a pilot study on the access of people with ASD to dental services applied to caregivers, dentists, and non-dental professionals. No refusals were recorded. The availability study showed that the policies’ objectives were not being achieved in terms of care network organization: there were no institutional flows, personal contacts were used between professionals to guarantee access to secondary attention, there was no specific training for the dentists about ASD, and the oral health care network was unknown to non-dentist professionals and caregivers. Most people with ASD have visited the dentist at least once in their lives, but a large percentage of those within this study did not do so in the last year. This study identified difficulties in implementing policies and suggested possible strategies for overcoming them as dimensions and subdimensions for evaluation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Approach to Promoting Oral Health)
10 pages, 541 KiB  
Article
Optical Genome Mapping as a New Tool to Overcome Conventional Cytogenetics Limitations in Patients with Bone Marrow Failure
by June Iriondo, Ana Gómez, Josune Zubicaray, Jorge Garcia-Martinez, Lorea Abad, Carmen Matesanz, Reyes Giménez, Almudena Galán, Alejandro Sanz, Elena Sebastián, Jesús Gonzalez de Pablo, Ana de la Cruz, Manuel Ramírez and Julián Sevilla
Genes 2024, 15(5), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15050559 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Cytogenetic studies are essential in the diagnosis and follow up of patients with bone marrow failure syndromes (BMFSs), but obtaining good quality results is often challenging due to hypocellularity. Optical Genome Mapping (OGM), a novel technology capable of detecting most types chromosomal structural [...] Read more.
Cytogenetic studies are essential in the diagnosis and follow up of patients with bone marrow failure syndromes (BMFSs), but obtaining good quality results is often challenging due to hypocellularity. Optical Genome Mapping (OGM), a novel technology capable of detecting most types chromosomal structural variants (SVs) at high resolution, is being increasingly used in many settings, including hematologic malignancies. Herein, we compared conventional cytogenetic techniques to OGM in 20 patients with diverse BMFSs. Twenty metaphases for the karyotype were only obtained in three subjects (15%), and no SVs were found in any of the samples. One patient with culture failure showed a gain in chromosome 1q by fluorescence in situ hybridization, which was confirmed by OGM. In contrast, OGM provided good quality results in all subjects, and SVs were detected in 14 of them (70%), mostly corresponding to cryptic submicroscopic alterations not observed by standard techniques. Therefore, OGM emerges as a powerful tool that provides complete and evaluable results in hypocellular BMFSs, reducing multiple tests into a single assay and overcoming some of the main limitations of conventional techniques. Furthermore, in addition to confirming the abnormalities detected by conventional techniques, OGM found new alterations beyond their detection limits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Therapies for Rare Diseases)
22 pages, 5221 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Role of E6 and E7 Oncoproteins in Cervical Oncogenesis through MBD2/3-NuRD Complex Chromatin Remodeling
by Alina Fudulu, Carmen Cristina Diaconu, Iulia Virginia Iancu, Adriana Plesa, Adrian Albulescu, Marinela Bostan, Demetra Gabriela Socolov, Irina Liviana Stoian, Raluca Balan, Gabriela Anton and Anca Botezatu
Genes 2024, 15(5), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15050560 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer is among the highest-ranking types of cancer worldwide, with human papillomavirus (HPV) as the agent driving the malignant process. One aspect of the infection’s evolution is given by epigenetic modifications, mainly DNA methylation and chromatin alteration. These processes are guided [...] Read more.
Background: Cervical cancer is among the highest-ranking types of cancer worldwide, with human papillomavirus (HPV) as the agent driving the malignant process. One aspect of the infection’s evolution is given by epigenetic modifications, mainly DNA methylation and chromatin alteration. These processes are guided by several chromatin remodeling complexes, including NuRD. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the genome-wide binding patterns of the NuRD complex components (MBD2 and MBD3) in the presence of active HPV16 E6 and E7 oncogenes and to determine the potential of identified genes through an experimental model to differentiate between cervical precursor lesions, with the aim of establishing their utility as biomarkers. Methods: The experimental model was built using the CaSki cell line and shRNA for E6 and E7 HPV16 silencing, ChIP-seq, qRT-PCR, and Western blot analyses. Selected genes’ expression was also assessed in patients. Results: Several genes have been identified to exhibit altered transcriptional activity due to the influence of HPV16 E6/E7 viral oncogenes acting through the MBD2/MBD3 NuRD complex, linking them to viral infection and cervical oncogenesis. Conclusions: The impacted genes primarily play roles in governing gene transcription, mRNA processing, and regulation of translation. Understanding these mechanisms offers valuable insights into the process of HPV-induced oncogenesis. Full article
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22 pages, 1651 KiB  
Article
Research on Fatigue Driving Detection Technology Based on CA-ACGAN
by Han Ye, Ming Chen and Guofu Feng
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(5), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14050436 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Driver fatigue represents a significant peril to global traffic safety, necessitating the advancement of potent fatigue monitoring methodologies to bolster road safety. This research introduces a conditional generative adversarial network with a classification head that integrates convolutional and attention mechanisms (CA-ACGAN) designed for [...] Read more.
Driver fatigue represents a significant peril to global traffic safety, necessitating the advancement of potent fatigue monitoring methodologies to bolster road safety. This research introduces a conditional generative adversarial network with a classification head that integrates convolutional and attention mechanisms (CA-ACGAN) designed for the precise identification of fatigue driving states through the analysis of electroencephalography (EEG) signals. First, this study constructed a 4D feature data model capable of mirroring drivers’ fatigue state, meticulously analyzing the EEG signals’ frequency, spatial, and temporal dimensions. Following this, we present the CA-ACGAN framework, a novel integration of attention schemes, the bottleneck residual block, and the Transformer element. This integration was designed to refine the processing of EEG signals significantly. In utilizing a conditional generative adversarial network equipped with a classification header, the framework aims to distinguish fatigue states effectively. Moreover, it addresses the scarcity of authentic data through the generation of superior-quality synthetic data. Empirical outcomes illustrate that the CA-ACGAN model surpasses various extant methods in the fatigue detection endeavor on the SEED-VIG public dataset. Moreover, juxtaposed with leading-edge GAN models, our model exhibits an efficacy in in producing high-quality data that is clearly superior. This investigation confirms the CA-ACGAN model’s utility in fatigue driving identification and suggests fresh perspectives for deep learning applications in time series data generation and processing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computational Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics)
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10 pages, 252 KiB  
Article
Can Music Reduce Stress and Anxiety in the Operating Room Team? Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study in Northern Italy Healthcare Services
by Ivan Rubbi, Anna Roveri, Gianandrea Pasquinelli, Claudia Cadas, Maicol Carvello, Roberto Lupo, Elsa Vitale, Petia Di Lorenzo, Nicola Sangiorgi, Luana Conte and Valeria Cremonini
Nurs. Rep. 2024, 14(2), 1079-1088; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep14020082 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background. Music evokes positive emotions and reduces stress and anxiety. Operating room (OR) staff face various challenges which can lead to high levels of stress. The aim of the study is to assess whether listening to music during intraoperative phases improves the work [...] Read more.
Background. Music evokes positive emotions and reduces stress and anxiety. Operating room (OR) staff face various challenges which can lead to high levels of stress. The aim of the study is to assess whether listening to music during intraoperative phases improves the work environment by reducing anxiety and stress in the entire surgical team. Methods. A prospective observational study was conducted from February to September 2023, involving medical personnel, nursing staff, and nursing students. They were divided into two groups: Group 1 with music during surgical procedures, and Group 2 without music. Participants were administered two validated instruments: the Zung Anxiety Self-Assessment Scale (SAS) to measure anxiety, and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule to assess emotions generating stress. Additional items were included for demographics, job satisfaction, and the organization method. Results. Music did not impact anxiety, but increased positive emotions while reducing negative ones. Music had an ancillary effect, highlighting the need for significant organizational interventions aimed at increasing operator satisfaction, including offering voluntary instead of mandatory assignments to nursing staff. Conclusions. Music appears to reduce stress in the intraoperative team when supported by a positive work environment in which assigned operators have chosen to work in the OR. Full article
10 pages, 3352 KiB  
Article
Single-Cell Screening through Cell Encapsulation in Photopolymerized Gelatin Methacryloyl
by Venkatesh Kumar Panneer Selvam, Takeru Fukunaga, Yuya Suzuki, Shunya Okamoto, Takayuki Shibata, Tuhin Subhra Santra and Moeto Nagai
Micro 2024, 4(2), 295-304; https://doi.org/10.3390/micro4020018 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study evaluated the potential of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) for single-cell screening compared to polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA). GelMA photopolymerized at 1000–2000 mJ/cm2 produced consistent patterns and supported HeLa cell viability. GelMA (5%w/v) facilitated better cell collection within 2 days due [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the potential of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) for single-cell screening compared to polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA). GelMA photopolymerized at 1000–2000 mJ/cm2 produced consistent patterns and supported HeLa cell viability. GelMA (5%w/v) facilitated better cell collection within 2 days due to its shape retention. GelMA demonstrated biocompatibility with HeLa cells exhibiting exponential proliferation and biodegradation over 5 days. The average cell displacement over 2 days was 16 µm. Two targeted cell recovery strategies using trypsin were developed: one for adherent cells encapsulated at 800 mJ/cm2, and another for floating cells encapsulated at 800 mJ/cm2, enabling the selective removal of unwanted cells. These findings suggest GelMA as a promising biomaterial for single-cell screening applications, offering advantages over PEGDA in cell encapsulation and targeted recovery. Full article
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8 pages, 1755 KiB  
Brief Report
Influenza Virus Genomic Surveillance, Arizona, USA, 2023–2024
by Rabia Maqsood, Matthew F. Smith, LaRinda A. Holland, Regan A. Sullins, Steven C. Holland, Michelle Tan, Gabrielle M. Hernandez Barrera, Alexis W. Thomas, Mario Islas, Joanna L. Kramer, Lora Nordstrom, Mary Mulrow, Michael White, Vel Murugan and Efrem S. Lim
Viruses 2024, 16(5), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050692 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Influenza viruses are constantly evolving and are therefore monitored worldwide in the hope to reduce the burden of disease by annual updates to vaccine recommendations. We conducted genomic sequencing of 110 influenza A and 30 influenza B viruses from specimens collected between October [...] Read more.
Influenza viruses are constantly evolving and are therefore monitored worldwide in the hope to reduce the burden of disease by annual updates to vaccine recommendations. We conducted genomic sequencing of 110 influenza A and 30 influenza B viruses from specimens collected between October 2023 and February 2024 in Arizona, USA. We identified mutations in the hemagglutinin (HA) antigenic sites as well as the neuraminidase (NA) gene in our samples. We also found no unique HA and NA mutations in vaccinated yet influenza-infected individuals. Real-time genomic sequencing surveillance is important to ensure influenza vaccine effectiveness. Full article
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18 pages, 378 KiB  
Article
Does Land Approval Facilitate Conservation Tillage? An Examination through the Lens of Straw- Returning Technology
by Zhiwu Yang, Jinling Bu, Jiahan Qi, Qing Liu and Yan Song
Land 2024, 13(5), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050579 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Well-defined and stable property rights play a pivotal role in shaping human economic behavior by averting the tragedy of the commons. This study employs micro-survey data from Heilongjiang Province, China, to empirically investigate the impact and mechanisms of land approval on the adoption [...] Read more.
Well-defined and stable property rights play a pivotal role in shaping human economic behavior by averting the tragedy of the commons. This study employs micro-survey data from Heilongjiang Province, China, to empirically investigate the impact and mechanisms of land approval on the adoption of straw returning tstraw-returning technology by farmers. Utilizing the Probit model and mediation and moderation effect testing methods, the findings reveal the following: (1) Land approval significantly promotes the adoption of straw-returning techniques by farmers, with a marginal effect of 0.288. This view is further validated through counterfactual inference constructed using the propensity score matching method. (2) Endowment effects mediate the relationship between land approval and farmers’ adoption of straw-returning technology. (3) Digital skills and farming scale negatively moderate the policy’s impact on farmers’ adoption of straw-returning technology. (4) In terms of control variables, the age of farmers and the dispersion of cultivated land have a significant negative impact on the adoption of straw-returning technology by farmers, while training related to agricultural straw-returning skills and government technology promotion significantly positively affects the use of straw-returning technology by farmers. Therefore, the clarity of land property rights helps to harness the policy effects of land approval and provides a research approach for countries with communal land ownership to implement actions for soil quality conservation. Full article
8 pages, 763 KiB  
Brief Report
SIRT1 Serum Concentrations in Lipodystrophic Syndromes
by Luisa Salvatori, Silvia Magno, Giovanni Ceccarini, Rossella Tozzi, Savina Contini, Caterina Pelosini, Ferruccio Santini, Lucio Gnessi and Stefania Mariani
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4785; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094785 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Lipodystrophies (LDs) are rare, complex disorders of the adipose tissue characterized by selective fat loss, altered adipokine profile and metabolic impairment. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are class III NAD+-dependent histone deacetylases linked to fat metabolism. SIRT1 plays a critical role in metabolic health [...] Read more.
Lipodystrophies (LDs) are rare, complex disorders of the adipose tissue characterized by selective fat loss, altered adipokine profile and metabolic impairment. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are class III NAD+-dependent histone deacetylases linked to fat metabolism. SIRT1 plays a critical role in metabolic health by deacetylating target proteins in tissue types including liver, muscle, and adipose. Circulating SIRT1 levels have been found to be reduced in obesity and increased in anorexia nervosa and patients experiencing weight loss. We evaluated circulating SIRT1 levels in relation to fat levels in 32 lipodystrophic patients affected by congenital or acquired LDs compared to non-LD subjects (24 with anorexia nervosa, 22 normal weight, and 24 with obesity). SIRT1 serum levels were higher in LDs than normal weight subjects (mean ± SEM 4.18 ± 0.48 vs. 2.59 ± 0.20 ng/mL) and subjects with obesity (1.7 ± 0.39 ng/mL), whereas they were close to those measured in anorexia nervosa (3.44 ± 0.46 ng/mL). Our findings show that within the LD group, there was no relationship between SIRT1 levels and the amount of body fat. The mechanisms responsible for secretion and regulation of SIRT1 in LD deserve further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sirtuins as Players in Cell Metabolism and Functions)
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18 pages, 4693 KiB  
Article
Assessment of CH4 Emissions in a Compressed Natural Gas-Adapted Engine in the Context of Changes in the Equivalence Ratio
by Artur Jaworski, Hubert Kuszewski, Krzysztof Balawender, Paweł Woś, Krzysztof Lew and Mirosław Jaremcio
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2095; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092095 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
The results of diagnostic tests under steady-state speed conditions of an unloaded engine do not fully reflect the emissivity of vehicles adapted to run on natural gas. Therefore, it is reasonable to pay attention to the emissions performance of these vehicles under dynamic [...] Read more.
The results of diagnostic tests under steady-state speed conditions of an unloaded engine do not fully reflect the emissivity of vehicles adapted to run on natural gas. Therefore, it is reasonable to pay attention to the emissions performance of these vehicles under dynamic conditions. In this regard, the tests were carried out on a chassis dynamometer with the engine fueled by gasoline and natural gas. Due to the area of operation of natural gas vehicles being usually limited to urban areas, the urban phases of the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) and WLTC (Worldwide harmonized Light-duty vehicles Test Cycle) were adapted. While CO2 emissions are lower when fueled by natural gas, CH4 emissions can be high, which is related to momentary changes in the composition of the combustible mixture. Although CH4 emissions are higher when the engine runs on natural gas, the CO2eq value is, depending on the driving cycle, about 15–25% lower than when running on petrol. Additionally, studies have shown that in engines adapted to run on CNG (compressed natural gas), it is advisable to consider the use of catalytic converters optimized to run on natural gas, as is the case with vehicles which are factory–adapted to run on CNG. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engine: Research and Application—2nd Edition)
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12 pages, 1634 KiB  
Article
Isolation of Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio vulnificus from Estuarine Waters, and Genotyping of V. vulnificus Isolates Using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification
by Shin-ichi Miyoshi, Megumi Kurata, Riho Hirose, Masaya Yoshikawa, Yong Liang, Yosuke Yamagishi and Tamaki Mizuno
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050877 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Bacteria in the genus Vibrio are ubiquitous in estuarine and coastal waters. Some species (including Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio vulnificus) are known human pathogens causing ailments like cholera, diarrhea, or septicemia. Notably, V. vulnificus can also cause a severe systemic infection (known as [...] Read more.
Bacteria in the genus Vibrio are ubiquitous in estuarine and coastal waters. Some species (including Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio vulnificus) are known human pathogens causing ailments like cholera, diarrhea, or septicemia. Notably, V. vulnificus can also cause a severe systemic infection (known as vibriosis) in eels raised in aquaculture facilities. Water samples were periodically collected from the estuary of the Asahi River, located in the southern part of Okayama City, Japan. These samples were directly plated onto CHROMagar Vibrio plates, and colonies displaying turquoise-blue coloration were selected. Thereafter, polymerase chain reaction was used to identify V. cholerae and V. vulnificus. A total of 30 V. cholerae strains and 194 V. vulnificus strains were isolated during the warm season when the water temperature (WT) was higher than 20 °C. Concurrently, an increase in coliforms was observed during this period. Notably, V. vulnificus has two genotypes, designated as genotype 1 and genotype 2. Genotype 1 is pathogenic to humans, while genotype 2 is pathogenic to both humans and eels. The loop-mediated isothermal amplification method was developed to rapidly determine genotypes at a low cost. Of the 194 strains isolated, 80 (41.2%) were identified as genotype 1 strains. Among the 41 strains isolated when the WTs were higher than 28 °C, 25 strains (61.0%) belonged to genotype 1. In contrast, of the 32 strains isolated when the WTs were lower than 24 °C, 27 strains (84.4%) belonged to genotype 2. These results suggest that the distribution of the two genotypes was influenced by WT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Microorganisms Associated with Human Health)
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13 pages, 3784 KiB  
Article
Examination of the Complex Molecular Landscape in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
by Uladzislau Vadadokhau, Imre Varga, Miklós Káplár, Miklós Emri and Éva Csősz
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4781; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094781 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
The escalating prevalence of metabolic disorders, notably type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, presents a critical global health challenge, necessitating deeper insights into their molecular underpinnings. Our study integrates proteomics and metabolomics analyses to delineate the complex molecular landscapes associated with T2D and [...] Read more.
The escalating prevalence of metabolic disorders, notably type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, presents a critical global health challenge, necessitating deeper insights into their molecular underpinnings. Our study integrates proteomics and metabolomics analyses to delineate the complex molecular landscapes associated with T2D and obesity. Leveraging data from 130 subjects, including individuals with T2D and obesity as well as healthy controls, we elucidate distinct molecular signatures and identify novel biomarkers indicative of disease progression. Our comprehensive characterization of cardiometabolic proteins and serum metabolites unveils intricate networks of biomolecular interactions and highlights differential protein expression patterns between T2D and obesity cohorts. Pathway enrichment analyses reveal unique mechanisms underlying disease development and progression, while correlation analyses elucidate the interplay between proteomics, metabolomics, and clinical parameters. Furthermore, network analyses underscore the interconnectedness of cardiometabolic proteins and provide insights into their roles in disease pathogenesis. Our findings may help to refine diagnostic strategies and inform the development of personalized interventions, heralding a new era in precision medicine and healthcare innovation. Through the integration of multi-omics approaches and advanced analytics, our study offers a crucial framework for deciphering the intricate molecular underpinnings of metabolic disorders and paving the way for transformative therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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11 pages, 1584 KiB  
Article
The Treatment of Antibiotic Excess Sludge via Catalytic Wet Oxidation with Cu-Ce/γ-Al2O3 and the Production of a Carbon Source
by Shangye Chu, Hai Lin and Xu Zeng
Water 2024, 16(9), 1249; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16091249 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the present study, the effectiveness of catalytic wet oxidation triggered by using Cu-Ce/γ-Al2O3 to degrade antibiotic excess sludge was investigated, during which some small molecule carboxylic acids were produced, which are valuable in biological wastewater treatment as an organic [...] Read more.
In the present study, the effectiveness of catalytic wet oxidation triggered by using Cu-Ce/γ-Al2O3 to degrade antibiotic excess sludge was investigated, during which some small molecule carboxylic acids were produced, which are valuable in biological wastewater treatment as an organic carbon source. The influence of reaction parameters on the degradation efficiency was explored through single-factor and orthogonal experiments, including catalyst amount, reaction temperature and time, and oxygen supply amount. The results illustrated that the treatment system can achieve 81.2% COD and 93.8% VSS removal rates under optimized reaction conditions. Carboxylic acids produced after the sludge degradation mainly included acetic acid, propanoic acid, etc. The results of wastewater biological treatment experiments exhibited that the degraded solution after catalytic wet oxidation has potential to be used as a carbon source to meet the demand of biological treatment, which helps the removal of COD and TN. This work confirms the effectiveness of catalyst for enhancing antibiotic excess sludge treatment, which provided a new idea for the rational disposal of antibiotic excess sludge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Catalytic Oxidation Processes for Water Treatment)
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22 pages, 7457 KiB  
Article
Water Resource Management of Salalah Plain Aquifer Using a Sustainable Approach
by Mahaad Issa Shammas
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3670; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093670 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
A sustainable approach is proposed for managing the effects of salinity ingression in Salalah coastal aquifer, Oman. This paper aims to analyze and compare the groundwater levels and salinity of the aquifer from 1993 to 2027, considering both predictive and actual transient scenarios. [...] Read more.
A sustainable approach is proposed for managing the effects of salinity ingression in Salalah coastal aquifer, Oman. This paper aims to analyze and compare the groundwater levels and salinity of the aquifer from 1993 to 2027, considering both predictive and actual transient scenarios. Two novel scenarios were proposed, established, and examined in this study to bring back the aquifer to steady-state condition. The first scenario entails ceasing groundwater pumping from both Salalah and Saada wellfields, while compensating for the groundwater supply from these sources with surplus desalinated water. This scenario is projected to occur during the predictive period spanning from 2023 to 2027, denoted Scenario A. The second scenario is business as usual and involves continuing pumping from both wellfields during the same predictive period, denoted Scenario B. A numerical model for 3D flow simulation and advective transport modeling showed that on the eastern side of the Salalah coastal aquifer, the extent of seawater intrusion (SWI) was identified stretching from the shoreline to a distance of 1800 m, 1200 m, 0 m, and 600 m, in years 2011, 2014, 2018, and 2022 under the transient period, whereas SWI was delineated in land up to 0 m and 700 m in the predictive year 2027 under Scenarios A and B, respectively. In the western side of Salalah coastal aquifer, SWI was delineated in land up to 2000 m, 1700 m, 0 m, and 800 m, in years 2011, 2014, 2018, and 2022 under the transient period, whereas SWI was delineated in land up to 0 m and 750 m in the predictive year 2027 under Scenarios A and B, respectively. This study claims that Scenario A effectively pushed the seawater interface back to the coastline, projecting its reach to the shoreline (0 m) by 2027. In contrast, in baseline Scenario B, the wedge of saline intrusion in the Salalah coastal aquifer was delineated from the shoreline, up to 800 m inland, which accounted for continuation of pumping from both wellfields during the predictive period. The study concludes that Scenario A has the capability to efficiently reduce the impact of saline inflows from the coast, while Scenario B results in a more pronounced impact of salinity intrusion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Hydrology and Water Resources Management)
37 pages, 1251 KiB  
Review
Prenylated Flavonoids of the Moraceae Family: A Comprehensive Review of Their Biological Activities
by Jaime Morante-Carriel, Suzana Živković, Hugo Nájera, Susana Sellés-Marchart, Ascensión Martínez-Márquez, María José Martínez-Esteso, Anna Obrebska, Antonio Samper-Herrero and Roque Bru-Martínez
Plants 2024, 13(9), 1211; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091211 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Prenylated flavonoids (PFs) are natural flavonoids with a prenylated side chain attached to the flavonoid skeleton. They have great potential for biological activities such as anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, enzyme inhibition, and anti-Alzheimer’s effects. Medicinal chemists have recently paid increasing attention to [...] Read more.
Prenylated flavonoids (PFs) are natural flavonoids with a prenylated side chain attached to the flavonoid skeleton. They have great potential for biological activities such as anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, enzyme inhibition, and anti-Alzheimer’s effects. Medicinal chemists have recently paid increasing attention to PFs, which have become vital for developing new therapeutic agents. PFs have quickly developed through isolation and semi- or full synthesis, proving their high value in medicinal chemistry research. This review comprehensively summarizes the research progress of PFs, including natural PFs from the Moraceae family and their pharmacological activities. This information provides a basis for the selective design and optimization of multifunctional PF derivatives to treat multifactorial diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Secondary Metabolites in Plants)
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22 pages, 1611 KiB  
Article
Evaluation and Wind Field Detection of Airborne Doppler Wind Lidar with Automatic Intelligent Processing in North China
by Xu Zhang, Zhifeng Lin, Chunqing Gao, Chao Han, Lin Fan and Xinxi Zhao
Atmosphere 2024, 15(5), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15050536 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Airborne wind measurement is of great significance for understanding atmospheric motion and meteorological monitoring. In this paper, we present the development and verification of an airborne Doppler wind lidar (ADWL), featuring an approach proposed to integrate a real-time wind retrieval method with an [...] Read more.
Airborne wind measurement is of great significance for understanding atmospheric motion and meteorological monitoring. In this paper, we present the development and verification of an airborne Doppler wind lidar (ADWL), featuring an approach proposed to integrate a real-time wind retrieval method with an intelligent processing method for automatic adaptive wind detection. Several verification experiments were conducted to evaluate the measurement effectiveness, including comparisons with a calibrated ground-based Doppler wind lidar (GDWL) and a sounding balloon. Compared with the sounding balloon, the ADWL demonstrated mean errors of 0.53 m/s for horizontal wind velocity and 4.60° for wind direction. The correlation coefficients consistently exceeded 0.98 in all linear analyses. Employed in multiple airborne wind detection events in North China at altitudes up to 6600 m, the ADWL provided effective wind field results with a vertical resolution of 50 m and a data rate of 2 Hz. The wind field results obtained during the detection events validate the ADWL’s capabilities in diverse environments and underscore its potential for the comprehensive detection of meteorological information. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Atmospheric Techniques, Instruments, and Modeling)
17 pages, 441 KiB  
Article
Effects of Affordable Housing Land Supply on Housing Prices: Evidence from 284 Cities in China
by Xue Han and Changchun Feng
Land 2024, 13(5), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050580 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
The policy objectives of affordable housing programs in China are two-fold: on the one hand, they are designed to assist low- and moderate-income families and reduce inequality; on the other hand, they are intended to lower commodity housing prices. However, the effects of [...] Read more.
The policy objectives of affordable housing programs in China are two-fold: on the one hand, they are designed to assist low- and moderate-income families and reduce inequality; on the other hand, they are intended to lower commodity housing prices. However, the effects of affordable housing land on housing prices, particularly the between-city variation and the mechanisms behind the market effects, have not been sufficiently examined, making it difficult to evaluate the housing policy and improve it accordingly. In this study, we address these gaps by using a prefecture-level panel dataset covering 2009–2020, obtained from national land and housing transaction information platforms. We use a threshold model to investigate the threshold effect of population size and a mediating model to uncover the channels through which the supply of affordable housing land affects housing prices. The results confirm that the affordable housing land supply can have a beneficial influence in terms of slowing down the increase in housing prices. The population size plays a significant role in explaining the between-city market effect variations. In cities with a population greater than 10.78 million, increasing the supply of affordable housing land would cause the housing prices to increase. Meanwhile, in cities with smaller populations, increasing the supply of affordable housing land could lower the housing prices. The underlying mechanisms of the market effects vary across cities with different population sizes. Although affordable housing land crowds out commodity housing land in all cities, housing demand diversion only exists in cities with a smaller population. At present, China is experimenting with city-specific housing policies; our findings imply that decision makers should explore additional policy options, besides building on incremental construction land, in order to make housing more affordable in supercities in China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Livable City: Rational Land Use and Sustainable Urban Space)
17 pages, 6312 KiB  
Article
Injection Molding Condition Effects on the Mechanical Properties of Coconut-Wood-Powder-Based Polymer Composite
by Quach Van Thiem, Van-Thuc Nguyen, Dang Thu Thi Phan and Pham Son Minh
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091225 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the mechanical properties of coconut sawdust powder combined with polypropylene (PP). The effect of compatibility content, wood powder (WP) content, and injection molding parameters on the properties of coconut wood powder composite (WPC) is evaluated. The results could be used [...] Read more.
This study investigates the mechanical properties of coconut sawdust powder combined with polypropylene (PP). The effect of compatibility content, wood powder (WP) content, and injection molding parameters on the properties of coconut wood powder composite (WPC) is evaluated. The results could be used to figure out the optimal mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation, elastic modulus, and flexural strength by selecting suitable parameters and composition. The bonding between the WP particles and the PP matrix is good, and the WP is uniformly distributed across the composite matrix, as indicated in the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results. Interestingly, with the presence of the compatibilizer oleamide, increasing the WP content from 20 wt.% to 40 wt.% did not result in WP accumulation in the composite matrix. Notably, at 20 wt.% WP, the elongation is the highest (at 7.40 wt.%), while at 30 wt.% WP, the elastic modulus reaches the highest value. The maximum ultimate tensile strength (UTS) value is obtained at 35 wt.% WP. Higher WP mostly results in greater flexural strength and shore D hardness. At 40 wt.% WP, the WPC achieves its peak shore D hardness of 77.6. The Taguchi results suggest that WP content is the most critical factor in the UTS value of coconut WPCs. The filling pressure ranks second, followed by the packing pressure. Finally, unlike the other characteristics, the melt temperature has a minimal impact on the UTS value. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Behavior of Polymeric Materials: Recent Study)
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12 pages, 968 KiB  
Article
Socioeconomic Deprivation and Invasive Breast Cancer Incidence by Stage at Diagnosis: A Possible Explanation to the Breast Cancer Social Paradox
by Giulio Borghi, Claire Delacôte, Solenne Delacour-Billon, Stéphanie Ayrault-Piault, Tienhan Sandrine Dabakuyo-Yonli, Patricia Delafosse, Anne-Sophie Woronoff, Brigitte Trétarre, Florence Molinié and Anne Cowppli-Bony
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1701; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091701 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this study, we assessed the influence of area-based socioeconomic deprivation on the incidence of invasive breast cancer (BC) in France, according to stage at diagnosis. All women from six mainland French departments, aged 15+ years, and diagnosed with a primary invasive breast [...] Read more.
In this study, we assessed the influence of area-based socioeconomic deprivation on the incidence of invasive breast cancer (BC) in France, according to stage at diagnosis. All women from six mainland French departments, aged 15+ years, and diagnosed with a primary invasive breast carcinoma between 2008 and 2015 were included (n = 33,298). Area-based socioeconomic deprivation was determined using the French version of the European Deprivation Index. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR) by socioeconomic deprivation and stage at diagnosis were compared estimating incidence rate ratios (IRRs) adjusted for age at diagnosis and rurality of residence. Compared to the most affluent areas, significantly lower IRRs were found in the most deprived areas for all-stages (0.85, 95% CI 0.81–0.89), stage I (0.77, 95% CI 0.72–0.82), and stage II (0.84, 95% CI 0.78–0.90). On the contrary, for stages III–IV, significantly higher IRRs (1.18, 95% CI 1.08–1.29) were found in the most deprived areas. These findings provide a possible explanation to similar or higher mortality rates, despite overall lower incidence rates, observed in women living in more deprived areas when compared to their affluent counterparts. Socioeconomic inequalities in access to healthcare services, including screening, could be plausible explanations for this phenomenon, underlying the need for further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Disparities in Cancer Prevention, Screening, Diagnosis and Management)
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13 pages, 669 KiB  
Systematic Review
HER2 Overexpression in Periampullary Tumors According to Anatomical and Histological Classification—A Systematic Review
by Ioan Cătălin Bodea, Andra Ciocan, Florin Vasile Zaharie, Raluca Bodea, Florin Graur, Ștefan Ursu, Răzvan Alexandru Ciocan and Nadim Al Hajjar
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(5), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14050463 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive, heterogeneous, and fatal types of human cancer; therefore, more effective therapeutic drugs are urgently needed. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression and amplification have been identified as a cornerstone in this pathology. The [...] Read more.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive, heterogeneous, and fatal types of human cancer; therefore, more effective therapeutic drugs are urgently needed. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression and amplification have been identified as a cornerstone in this pathology. The aim of this review is to identify HER2 membrane overexpression in relation to pancreatic cancer pathways that can be used in order to develop a targeted therapy. After searching the keywords, 174 articles were found during a time span of 10 years, between 2013 and 2023, but only twelve scientific papers were qualified for this investigation. The new era of biomolecular research found a significant relationship between HER2 overexpression and pancreatic cancer cells in 25–30% of cases. The variables are dependent on tumor-derived cells, with differences in receptor overexpression between PDAC (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma), BTC (biliary tract cancer), ampullary carcinoma, and PNETs (pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors). HER2 overexpression is frequently encountered in human pancreatic carcinoma cell lines, and the ERBB family is one of the targets in the near future of therapy, with good results in phase I, II, and III studies evaluating downregulation and tumor downstaging, respectively. Full article
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20 pages, 5080 KiB  
Article
Estimation of Mariculture Carbon Sinks in China and Its Influencing Factors
by Simiao Guo and Hongtao Nie
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050724 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
The scientific assessment of mariculture carbon sinks is crucial to recognize its potential as a significant component of marine blue carbon in global climate change mitigation. Therefore, the objective of the research was to estimate the seaweed and shellfish mariculture carbon sink of [...] Read more.
The scientific assessment of mariculture carbon sinks is crucial to recognize its potential as a significant component of marine blue carbon in global climate change mitigation. Therefore, the objective of the research was to estimate the seaweed and shellfish mariculture carbon sink of different varieties in various sea areas. The paper emphasized the distinction between short-term carbon sequestration in seaweed and shellfish that can be removed and long-term carbon sequestration that is deposited. Methodologically, the evaluation was based on the carbon sequestration mechanism and systematic pathways in shellfish and seaweeds. Additionally, the carbon sequestration of shellfish and seaweed aquaculture over the last decade was evaluated by the carbon sink assessment model, and the reasons for the differences in the carbon sink capacity of mariculture in China’s coastal provinces were discussed by using the LMDI decomposition model. The results indicated the carbon sequestration of offshore seaweeds and shellfish mariculture in China was huge. From 2010 to 2020, offshore seaweed aquaculture in China amounted to 7.959 Mt C/a, while shellfish aquaculture contributed 33.542 Mt C/a to the carbon sinks. Sedimentary carbon sequestration by shellfish accounted for 51% of the total carbon sequestration in mariculture involving shellfish and seaweeds. Especially noteworthy is the sedimentary carbon sequestration by shellfish, which is an indispensable and crucial component of mariculture carbon sequestration estimation. It is concluded that improvements in farming efficiency exerted the greatest influence on the variations of the mariculture carbon sink, while adjustments in farming structure had a relatively minor impact in the case of little change in aquaculture yield. Enhancing farming efficiency emerges as a practical approach to bolstering the carbon sink potential of marine aquaculture fisheries in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Aquaculture)
14 pages, 2872 KiB  
Review
Azulene and Its Derivatives as Potential Compounds in the Therapy of Dermatological and Anticancer Diseases: New Perspectives against the Backdrop of Current Research
by Emilia Slon, Bartosz Slon and Dorota Kowalczuk
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 2020; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29092020 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
The scientific article focuses on the role of azulene and its derivatives in the therapy of dermatological diseases, presenting the latest laboratory and clinical research as well as prospects for further studies. In a synthetic literature review, various databases such as PubMed, Scopus, [...] Read more.
The scientific article focuses on the role of azulene and its derivatives in the therapy of dermatological diseases, presenting the latest laboratory and clinical research as well as prospects for further studies. In a synthetic literature review, various databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Database of Polish Scientific Journals were queried to select relevant articles concerning azulene. The conclusions drawn from the thematic analysis of the studies emphasize the multifaceted pharmacological actions of azulene and its derivatives including their anti-inflammatory properties, potential anticancer effects, photoprotective abilities, alleviation of itching, management of atopic dermatitis, and treatment of erectile dysfunction. However, there are certain limitations associated with the application of unmodified azulene on the skin, particularly related to photodecomposition and the generation of reactive oxygen species under UV radiation. These effects, in turn, necessitate further research on the safety of azulene and azulene-derived substances, especially regarding their long-term use and potential application in phototherapy. The authors of this work emphasize the necessity of conducting further preclinical and clinical studies to fully understand the mechanisms of action. Incorporating azulene and its derivatives into the therapy of dermatological disorders may represent an innovative approach, thereby opening new treatment avenues for patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Analogues with Promising Biological Profiles)
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13 pages, 4924 KiB  
Article
Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Four Peristediidae Fish Species: Genome Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis
by Xianhui Liao, Yijia Shih, Chenghao Jia and Tianxiang Gao
Genes 2024, 15(5), 557; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15050557 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
The systematic revision of the family Peristediidae remains an unresolved issue due to their diverse and unique morphology. Despite the popularity of using mitochondrial genome research to comprehensively understand phylogenetic relationships in fish, genetic data for peristediid fish need to be included. Therefore, [...] Read more.
The systematic revision of the family Peristediidae remains an unresolved issue due to their diverse and unique morphology. Despite the popularity of using mitochondrial genome research to comprehensively understand phylogenetic relationships in fish, genetic data for peristediid fish need to be included. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the mitochondrial genomic characteristics and intra-family phylogenetic relationships of Peristediidae by utilizing mitochondrial genome analysis. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the phylogenetic relationship of Peristediidae by utilizing mitochondrial genome analysis. The mitochondrial genome of four species of Peristediidae (Peristedion liorhynchus, Satyrichthys welchi, Satyrichthys rieffeli, and Scalicus amiscus) collected in the East China Sea was studied. The mitochondrial gene sequence lengths of four fish species were 16,533 bp, 16,526 bp, 16,527 bp, and 16,526 bp, respectively. They had the same mitochondrial structure and were all composed of 37 genes and one control region. Most PCGs used ATG as the start codon, and a few used GTG as the start codon. An incomplete stop codon (TA/T) occurred. The AT-skew and GC-skew values of 13 PCGs from four species were negative, and the GC-skew amplitude was greater than that of AT-skew. All cases of D-arm were found in tRNA-Ser (GCT). The Ka/Ks ratio analysis indicated that 13 PCGs were suffering purifying selection. Based on 12 PCGs (excluding ND6) sequences, a phylogenetic tree was constructed using Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) methods, providing a further supplement to the scientific classification of Peristediidae fish. According to the results of divergence time, the four species of fish had apparent divergence in the Early Cenozoic, which indicates that the geological events at that time caused the climax of species divergence and evolution. Full article
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