The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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14 pages, 960 KiB  
Review
The Role of Wheatgrass in Colorectal Cancer: A Review of the Current Evidence
by Magie Tamraz, Najib Al Ghossaini and Sally Temraz
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5166; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105166 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The etiology of colon cancer is either genetic in nature or results from inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease; nevertheless, dietary habits play a crucial role in the disease. Wheatgrass is a dietary supplement that is rich in vitamins, [...] Read more.
The etiology of colon cancer is either genetic in nature or results from inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease; nevertheless, dietary habits play a crucial role in the disease. Wheatgrass is a dietary supplement that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which contribute to health promotion in cardiovascular diseases, liver disease, blood diseases, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel diseases, as well as in several types of cancers, such as oral squamous cell cancer, cervical cancer, and breast cancer. In colorectal cancer (CRC), the prospect that wheatgrass possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, and its use as an adjunctive therapy, have been minimally investigated and evidence is still limited. In this review, we compiled the available evidence pertaining to wheatgrass and its likely impact on CRC, described the pathways of inflammation in which wheatgrass could possibly play a role, and identified future research needs on the subject. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Molecular Pathways in Oncology 2.0)
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17 pages, 2537 KiB  
Article
Joint Phase Shift Design and Resource Management for a Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access-Enhanced Internet of Vehicle Assisted by an Intelligent Reflecting Surface-Equipped Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
by Lijuan Wang, Yixin He, Bin Chen, Abual Hassan, Dawei Wang, Lina Yang and Fanghui Huang
Drones 2024, 8(5), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones8050188 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This paper integrates intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS) with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to enhance the transmission performance of the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) through non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA). It focuses on strengthening the signals from cell edge vehicles (CEVs) to the base station [...] Read more.
This paper integrates intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS) with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to enhance the transmission performance of the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) through non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA). It focuses on strengthening the signals from cell edge vehicles (CEVs) to the base station by optimizing the wireless propagation environment via an IRS-equipped UAV. The primary goal is to maximize the sum data rate of CEVs while satisfying the constraint of the successive interference cancellation (SIC) decoding threshold. The challenge lies in the non-convex nature of jointly considering the power control, subcarrier allocation, and phase shift design, making the problem difficult to optimally solve. To address this, the problem is decomposed into two independent subproblems, which are then solved iteratively. Specifically, the optimal phase shift design is achieved using the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm. Furthermore, the graph theory is applied to determine the subcarrier allocation policy and derive a closed-form solution for optimal power control. Finally, the simulation results show that the proposed joint phase shift and resource management scheme significantly enhances the sum data rate compared to the state-of-the-art schemes, thereby demonstrating the benefits of integrating the IRS-equipped UAV into NOMA-enhanced IoV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drone Communications)
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22 pages, 9676 KiB  
Article
Modeling- and Simulation-Driven Methodology for the Deployment of an Inland Water Monitoring System
by Giordy A. Andrade, Segundo Esteban, José L. Risco-Martín, Jesús Chacón and Eva Besada-Portas
Information 2024, 15(5), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15050267 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In response to the challenges introduced by global warming and increased eutrophication, this paper presents an innovative modeling and simulation (M&S)-driven model for developing an automated inland water monitoring system. This system is grounded in a layered Internet of Things (IoT) architecture and [...] Read more.
In response to the challenges introduced by global warming and increased eutrophication, this paper presents an innovative modeling and simulation (M&S)-driven model for developing an automated inland water monitoring system. This system is grounded in a layered Internet of Things (IoT) architecture and seamlessly integrates cloud, fog, and edge computing to enable sophisticated, real-time environmental surveillance and prediction of harmful algal and cyanobacterial blooms (HACBs). Utilizing autonomous boats as mobile data collection units within the edge layer, the system efficiently tracks algae and cyanobacteria proliferation and relays critical data upward through the architecture. These data feed into advanced inference models within the cloud layer, which inform predictive algorithms in the fog layer, orchestrating subsequent data-gathering missions. This paper also details a complete development environment that facilitates the system lifecycle from concept to deployment. The modular design is powered by Discrete Event System Specification (DEVS) and offers unparalleled adaptability, allowing developers to simulate, validate, and deploy modules incrementally and cutting across traditional developmental phases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet of Things and Cloud-Fog-Edge Computing)
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11 pages, 2236 KiB  
Article
Na and K Intake from Lunches Served in a Japanese Company Cafeteria and the Estimated Improvement in the Dietary Na/K Ratio Using Low-Na/K Seasonings and Dairy to Prevent Hypertension
by Nagako Okuda, Aya Higashiyama, Kozo Tanno, Yuki Yonekura, Makoto Miura, Hiroshi Kuno, Toru Nakajima, Tomomi Nagahata, Hirokazu Taniguchi, Koki Kosami, Kyoko Kojima and Akira Okayama
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1433; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101433 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The excessive intake of sodium (Na) and insufficient intake of potassium (K) are major concerns in the prevention of hypertension. Using low-Na/K seasonings (reducing 25% of the NaCl and adding K salt) may improve the dietary Na/K ratio and help prevent hypertension. To [...] Read more.
The excessive intake of sodium (Na) and insufficient intake of potassium (K) are major concerns in the prevention of hypertension. Using low-Na/K seasonings (reducing 25% of the NaCl and adding K salt) may improve the dietary Na/K ratio and help prevent hypertension. To devise an intervention study using low-Na/K seasonings at a company cafeteria, we calculated the Na and K contents of the meals served at the cafeteria and estimated changes in the intakes when suitable low-Na/K seasonings were used. We also considered using milk as a good source of K. We used an ingredient list of a company cafeteria and calculated Na and K contents in each dish. The average amounts of NaCl and K per use were 5.04 g and 718 mg, respectively. Seasonings contributed 70.9% of the NaCl. With the use of low-Na/K seasonings, an estimated reduction in NaCl of 0.8 g/day and an estimated increase in K of 308 mg/day was achieved. With an additional serving (200 mL) of milk, NaCl was reduced by 0.57 g/day and K was increased by 610 mg/day, with an overall decrease in the dietary Na/K ratio from 3.20 to 2.40. The use of low-Na/K seasonings and dairy may improve the dietary Na/K ratio among cafeteria users and help prevent hypertension. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
12 pages, 564 KiB  
Article
Dynamics Behavior of a Predatorg-Prey Diffusion Model Incorporating Hunting Cooperation and Predator-Taxis
by Huisen Zhang
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1474; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101474 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we consider a predator-prey diffusion model incorporating hunting cooperation and predator-taxis. Firstly, we establish the global existence of a classical solution for the model in any spatial dimension. Secondly, we analyze the stability/instability caused by predator-taxis, and we observe that [...] Read more.
In this paper, we consider a predator-prey diffusion model incorporating hunting cooperation and predator-taxis. Firstly, we establish the global existence of a classical solution for the model in any spatial dimension. Secondly, we analyze the stability/instability caused by predator-taxis, and we observe that predator-taxis play a key role in inducing stability changes. Specifically, if the positive equilibrium is stable for the corresponding reaction-diffusion model, the attractive predator-taxis can further stabilize the system, while the repulsive predator-taxis may lead to a change in spatial stability, if the positive equilibrium is unstable for the corresponding reaction-diffusion model, the attractive predator-taxis makes the model remain unstable, while the repulsive predator-taxis has a stabilizing effect. Finally, numerical simulations are employed to validate the obtained results. Full article
27 pages, 2982 KiB  
Review
Advancements in Biochar Modification for Enhanced Phosphorus Utilization in Agriculture
by Nazir Ahmed, Lifang Deng, Chuan Wang, Zia-ul-Hassan Shah, Lansheng Deng, Yongquan Li, Juan Li, Sadaruddin Chachar, Zaid Chachar, Faisal Hayat, Bilquees Bozdar, Filza Ansari, Rashid Ali, Lin Gong and Panfeng Tu
Land 2024, 13(5), 644; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050644 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The role of modified biochar in enhancing phosphorus (P) availability is gaining attention as an environmentally friendly approach to address soil P deficiency, a global agricultural challenge. Traditional phosphatic fertilizers, while essential for crop yield, are costly and environmentally detrimental owing to P [...] Read more.
The role of modified biochar in enhancing phosphorus (P) availability is gaining attention as an environmentally friendly approach to address soil P deficiency, a global agricultural challenge. Traditional phosphatic fertilizers, while essential for crop yield, are costly and environmentally detrimental owing to P fixation and leaching. Modified biochar presents a promising alternative with improved properties such as increased porosity, surface area, and cation exchange capacity. This review delves into the variability of biochar properties based on source and production methods and how these can be optimized for effective P adsorption. By adjusting properties such as pH levels and functional groups to align with the phosphate’s zero point of charge, we enhance biochar’s ability to adsorb and retain P, thereby increasing its bioavailability to plants. The integration of nanotechnology and advanced characterization techniques aids in understanding the structural nuances of biochar and its interactions with phosphorus. This approach offers multiple benefits: it enables farmers to use phosphorus more efficiently, reducing the need for traditional fertilizers and thereby minimizing environmental impacts, such as greenhouse gas emissions and P leaching. This review also identifies existing research gaps and future opportunities for further biochar modifications. These findings emphasize the significant potential of modified biochar in sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Soil Interactions in Agricultural Systems)
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20 pages, 987 KiB  
Review
Is Collaborative Care the Future of Medicine? Lessons Learned from the Care of Children with Colorectal Conditions
by Julie M. Choueiki, Stephen Sales, Susan Callicott, David Ashman, Katherine Worst, Andrea Badillo, Briony K. Varda, Allison Mayhew, Thomas O. Xu and Marc A. Levitt
Children 2024, 11(5), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11050570 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The treatment of patients with colorectal disorders requires care from a wide variety of medical and surgical specialties over the course of their lifetime. This is ideally handled by a collaborative center which facilitates the assessment and development of patient care among multiple [...] Read more.
The treatment of patients with colorectal disorders requires care from a wide variety of medical and surgical specialties over the course of their lifetime. This is ideally handled by a collaborative center which facilitates the assessment and development of patient care among multiple specialties which can enhance the quality and implementation of treatment plans, improve communication among different specialties, decrease morbidity, and improve patient satisfaction and outcomes. This collaborative approach can serve as a model for other parts of medicine requiring a similar multi-disciplinary and integrated method of care delivery. We describe the process, as well as the lessons learned in developing such a program. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Pediatric Colorectal Surgery)
18 pages, 1840 KiB  
Article
Correlations of the CNR1 Gene with Personality Traits in Women with Alcohol Use Disorder
by Filip Maciocha, Aleksandra Suchanecka, Krzysztof Chmielowiec, Jolanta Chmielowiec, Andrzej Ciechanowicz and Agnieszka Boroń
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5174; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105174 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a significant issue affecting women, with severe consequences for society, the economy, and most importantly, health. Both personality and alcohol use disorders are phenotypically very complex, and elucidating their shared heritability is a challenge for medical genetics. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a significant issue affecting women, with severe consequences for society, the economy, and most importantly, health. Both personality and alcohol use disorders are phenotypically very complex, and elucidating their shared heritability is a challenge for medical genetics. Therefore, our study investigated the correlations between the microsatellite polymorphism (AAT)n of the Cannabinoid Receptor 1 (CNR1) gene and personality traits in women with AUD. The study group included 187 female subjects. Of these, 93 were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder, and 94 were controls. Repeat length polymorphism of microsatellite regions (AAT)n in the CNR1 gene was identified with PCR. All participants were assessed with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview and completed the NEO Five-Factor and State-Trait Anxiety Inventories. In the group of AUD subjects, significantly fewer (AAT)n repeats were present when compared with controls (p = 0.0380). While comparing the alcohol use disorder subjects (AUD) and the controls, we observed significantly higher scores on the STAI trait (p < 0.00001) and state scales (p = 0.0001) and on the NEO Five-Factor Inventory Neuroticism (p < 0.00001) and Openness (p = 0.0237; insignificant after Bonferroni correction) scales. Significantly lower results were obtained on the NEO-FFI Extraversion (p = 0.00003), Agreeability (p < 0.00001) and Conscientiousness (p < 0.00001) scales by the AUD subjects when compared to controls. There was no statistically significant Pearson’s linear correlation between the number of (AAT)n repeats in the CNR1 gene and the STAI and NEO Five-Factor Inventory scores in the group of AUD subjects. In contrast, Pearson’s linear correlation analysis in controls showed a positive correlation between the number of the (AAT)n repeats and the STAI state scale (r = 0.184; p = 0.011; insignificant after Bonferroni correction) and a negative correlation with the NEO-FFI Openness scale (r = −0.241; p = 0.001). Interestingly, our study provided data on two separate complex issues, i.e., (1) the association of (AAT)n CNR1 repeats with the AUD in females; (2) the correlation of (AAT)n CNR1 repeats with anxiety as a state and Openness in non-alcohol dependent subjects. In conclusion, our study provided a plethora of valuable data for improving our understanding of alcohol use disorder and anxiety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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20 pages, 4578 KiB  
Article
Distinctiveness of Femoral and Acetabular Mesenchymal Stem and Progenitor Populations in Patients with Primary and Secondary Hip Osteoarthritis Due to Developmental Dysplasia
by Mihovil Plečko, Nataša Kovačić, Danka Grčević, Alan Šućur, Andreja Vukasović Barišić, Tea Duvančić, Ivan Bohaček and Domagoj Delimar
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5173; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105173 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Primary hip osteoarthritis (pOA) develops without an apparent underlying reason, whereas secondary osteoarthritis arises due to a known cause, such as developmental dysplasia of the hips (DDH-OA). DDH-OA patients undergo total hip arthroplasty at a much younger age than pOA patients (50.58 vs. [...] Read more.
Primary hip osteoarthritis (pOA) develops without an apparent underlying reason, whereas secondary osteoarthritis arises due to a known cause, such as developmental dysplasia of the hips (DDH-OA). DDH-OA patients undergo total hip arthroplasty at a much younger age than pOA patients (50.58 vs. 65 years in this study). Recently, mesenchymal stem and progenitor cells (MSPCs) have been investigated for the treatment of osteoarthritis due to their immunomodulatory and regenerative potential. This study identified cells in subchondral bone expressing common MSPC markers (CD10, CD73, CD140b, CD146, CD164, CD271, GD2, PDPN) in vivo and compared the proportions of these populations in pOA vs. DDH-OA, further correlating them with clinical, demographic, and morphological characteristics. The differences in subchondral morphology and proportions of non-hematopoietic cells expressing MSPC markers were noted depending on OA type and skeletal location. Bone sclerosis was more prominent in the pOA acetabulum (Ac) in comparison to the DDH-OA Ac and in the pOA Ac compared to the pOA femoral head (Fh). Immunophenotyping indicated diagnosis-specific differences, such as a higher proportion of CD164+ cells and their subsets in DDH-OA, while pOA contained a significantly higher proportion of CD10+ and GD2+ cells and subsets, with CD271+ being marginally higher. Location-specific differences showed that CD271+ cells were more abundant in the Fh compared to the Ac in DDH-OA patients. Furthermore, immunohistochemical characterization of stromal bone-adjacent cells expressing MSPC markers (CD10, CD164, CD271, GD2) in the Ac and Fh compartments was performed. This research proved that immunophenotype profiles and morphological changes are both location- and disease-specific. Furthermore, it provided potentially effective targets for therapeutic strategies. Future research should analyze the differentiation potential of subsets identified in this study. After proper characterization, they can be selectively targeted, thus enhancing personalized medicine approaches in joint disease management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Osteoarthritis: From Molecular Mechanism to Novel Therapy)
13 pages, 564 KiB  
Article
Asymmetric Exchange Rate Effects on Trade Flows in India
by Niloufer Sohrabji
Economies 2024, 12(5), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies12050114 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This paper examines the role of exchange rate changes on India’s trade. The drivers of exports and imports (income, exchange rate including sectoral differences, and exchange rate variability) are estimated for the short and long run including a structural break. Using annual data [...] Read more.
This paper examines the role of exchange rate changes on India’s trade. The drivers of exports and imports (income, exchange rate including sectoral differences, and exchange rate variability) are estimated for the short and long run including a structural break. Using annual data from 1994 to 2022, the results of dynamic fixed effects estimation show that both exports and imports are income-elastic in the short and long run, but income elasticity is far stronger for exports. Moreover, exports are responsive to the real effective exchange rate in the short run but not in the long run, and the reverse is true for imports. Furthermore, exchange rates have asymmetric effects for high-volume and primary sectors for exports and imports. The combined impacts show the ineffectiveness of using currency depreciation to address trade imbalances. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exchange Rates: Drivers, Dynamics, Impacts, and Policies)
12 pages, 270 KiB  
Article
Kernel-Based Multivariate Nonparametric CUSUM Multi-Chart for Detection of Abrupt Changes
by Lei Qiao and Bing Wang
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1473; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101473 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In many cases, it is difficult to obtain precise distributional information on multivariate sequences. Therefore, there is a need to propose nonparametric methods for monitoring multivariate sequences. This article discusses the multivariate change detection problem and utilizes the kernel function as the statistic [...] Read more.
In many cases, it is difficult to obtain precise distributional information on multivariate sequences. Therefore, there is a need to propose nonparametric methods for monitoring multivariate sequences. This article discusses the multivariate change detection problem and utilizes the kernel function as the statistic to construct the nonparametric Multivariate Cumulative Sum multi-chart, under the assumption that there is prior information about the abrupt changes. Through theoretical and numerical analysis, we show that the proposed control chart is more effective compared to other existing control charts. The good monitoring effect of this method demonstrates a strong potential for application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Statistical Process Monitoring and Wavelet Analysis)
18 pages, 1604 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Carbon Fiber Fabrics with ALD AlxOy Coatings: An Investigation of Thickness Effects on Weight, Morphology, Coloration, and Thermal Properties
by Vanessa Dias, Nierlly Galvão, Felipe Miranda, Mariana Fraga, Gilberto Petraconi, Homero Maciel and Rodrigo Pessoa
Coatings 2024, 14(5), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14050596 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This study explores the impact of non-stoichiometric aluminum oxide (AlxOy) coatings applied via thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) on carbon fiber fabrics (CFFs), emphasizing volume per cycle, FESEM analyses, color transitions, and thermal stability enhancements. Using trimethylaluminum and water [...] Read more.
This study explores the impact of non-stoichiometric aluminum oxide (AlxOy) coatings applied via thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) on carbon fiber fabrics (CFFs), emphasizing volume per cycle, FESEM analyses, color transitions, and thermal stability enhancements. Using trimethylaluminum and water at 100 °C, AlxOy was deposited across a range of 1000 to 5000 ALD cycles, with film thicknesses extending up to 500 nm. This notable increase in the volume of material deposited per cycle was observed for the 3D CFFs, highlighting ALD’s capability to coat complex structures effectively. FESEM analyses revealed the morphological evolution of CFF surfaces post-coating, showing a transition from individual grains to a dense, continuous layer as ALD cycles increased. This morphological transformation led to significant color shifts from green to red to blue, attributed to structural coloration effects arising from variations in film thickness and surface morphology. Thermogravimetric analyses (TGA and dTG) indicated that the AlxOy coatings enhanced the thermal stability of CFFs, with a postponement in degradation onset observed in samples subjected to more ALD cycles. In essence, this research highlights the nuanced relationship between ALD processing parameters and their collective influence on both the aesthetic and functional properties of CFFs. This study illustrates ALD’s potential in customizing CFFs for applications requiring specific color and thermal resilience, balancing the discussion between the surface morphological changes and their implications for color and thermal behavior. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Thin Films)
18 pages, 696 KiB  
Article
Development of the Food Acceptance Questionnaire for Thai Partial and Complete Edentulism
by Ketsupha Suwanarpa, Yoko Hasegawa, Jarin Paphangkorakit, Waranuch Pitiphat, Kazuhiro Hori and Takahiro Ono
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1432; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101432 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to develop the Food Acceptance Questionnaire (FAQ) to assess the masticatory ability of Thai older adults (≥60 years). Fifty participants were interviewed using open-ended questions about food they regularly consumed and avoided due to difficulty chewing. From a list of [...] Read more.
This study aimed to develop the Food Acceptance Questionnaire (FAQ) to assess the masticatory ability of Thai older adults (≥60 years). Fifty participants were interviewed using open-ended questions about food they regularly consumed and avoided due to difficulty chewing. From a list of 140 items, 100 were recruited for a trial version of the FAQ. A total of 154 participants responded to the 5-point Likert scale on their chewing perception of each food item (1, impossible to chew; 5, most easily eaten). The average response of each food item was used as the chewing index (CI). The 100 food items were ranked and divided into five grades based on their CIs. Masticatory performance (MP) was objectively assessed by a visual scoring method using gummy jelly (UHA Mikakuto). Two foods from each grade that demonstrated the highest correlation with MP were selected to form the final 10-item FAQ. The FAQ score was calculated by summarizing the responses of 10 items. MP correlated strongly with the FAQ score (r = 0.57, p < 0.001), indicating its predictive validity. Furthermore, the FAQ indicates strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient = 0.90), indicating high reliability. In conclusion, this newly developed 10-item FAQ is valid and reliable for assessing the masticatory ability of Thai older adults. Full article
16 pages, 1783 KiB  
Article
Efficient Removal of Water Soluble Fraction of Diesel Oil by Biochar Sorption Supported by Microbiological Degradation
by Zorica R. Lopičić, Tatjana D. Šoštarić, Jelena V. Milojković, Anja V. Antanasković, Jelena S. Milić, Snežana D. Spasić and Jelena S. Avdalović
Processes 2024, 12(5), 964; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050964 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The contamination of the water bodies by diesel oil (DO) and its water-soluble fraction (WSF) represents one of the most challenging tasks in the management of polluted water streams. This paper contains data related to the synthesis and characteristics of the plum stone [...] Read more.
The contamination of the water bodies by diesel oil (DO) and its water-soluble fraction (WSF) represents one of the most challenging tasks in the management of polluted water streams. This paper contains data related to the synthesis and characteristics of the plum stone biochar material (PmS-B), which was made from waste plum stones (PmS), along with its possible application in the sorption of the WSF of DO from contaminated water. Techniques applied in sample characterisation and comparisons were: Elemental Organic Analysis (EOA), Scanning Electron Microscopy−Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), pH (pHsus) and point of zero charge (pHpzc). In order to increase the overall efficiency of the removal process, sorption and bioremediation were subsequently combined. Firstly, PmS-B was used as a sorbent of WSF, and then the remaining solution was additionally treated with a specific consortium of microorganisms. After the first treatment phase, the initial concentration of diesel WSF was reduced by more than 90%, where most of the aromatic components of DO were removed by sorption. The sorption equilibrium results were best fitted by the Sips isotherm model, where the maximum sorption capacity was found to be 40.72 mg/g. The rest of the hydrocarbon components that remained in the solution were further subjected to the biodegradation process by a consortium of microorganisms. Microbial degradation lasted 19 days and reduced the total diesel WSF concentration to 0.46 mg/L. In order to confirm the non-toxicity of the water sample after this two-stage treatment, eco-toxicity tests based on a microbial biosensor (Aliivibrio fischeri) were applied, confirming the high efficiency of the proposed method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermochemical Conversion of Agricultural and Food Processing Waste)
26 pages, 3758 KiB  
Article
Unveiling a Microexon Switch: Novel Regulation of the Activities of Sugar Assimilation and Plant-Cell-Wall-Degrading Xylanses and Cellulases by Xlr2 in Trichoderma virens
by Cynthia Coccet Castañeda-Casasola, María Fernanda Nieto-Jacobo, Amanda Soares, Emir Alejandro Padilla-Padilla, Miguel Angel Anducho-Reyes, Chris Brown, Sereyboth Soth, Edgardo Ulises Esquivel-Naranjo, John Hampton and Artemio Mendoza-Mendoza
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5172; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105172 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Functional microexons have not previously been described in filamentous fungi. Here, we describe a novel mechanism of transcriptional regulation in Trichoderma requiring the inclusion of a microexon from the Xlr2 gene. In low-glucose environments, a long mRNA including the microexon encodes a protein [...] Read more.
Functional microexons have not previously been described in filamentous fungi. Here, we describe a novel mechanism of transcriptional regulation in Trichoderma requiring the inclusion of a microexon from the Xlr2 gene. In low-glucose environments, a long mRNA including the microexon encodes a protein with a GAL4-like DNA-binding domain (Xlr2-α), whereas in high-glucose environments, a short mRNA that is produced encodes a protein lacking this DNA-binding domain (Xlr2-β). Interestingly, the protein isoforms differ in their impact on cellulase and xylanase activity. Deleting the Xlr2 gene reduced both xylanase and cellulase activity and growth on different carbon sources, such as carboxymethylcellulose, xylan, glucose, and arabinose. The overexpression of either Xlr2-α or Xlr2-β in T. virens showed that the short isoform (Xlr2-β) caused higher xylanase activity than the wild types or the long isoform (Xlr2-α). Conversely, cellulase activity did not increase when overexpressing Xlr2-β but was increased with the overexpression of Xlr2-α. This is the first report of a novel transcriptional regulation mechanism of plant-cell-wall-degrading enzyme activity in T. virens. This involves the differential expression of a microexon from a gene encoding a transcriptional regulator. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Plant Sciences)
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16 pages, 6402 KiB  
Article
Scythian Jewelry Meshes and the Problem of Their Interpretation
by Oksana Lifantii
Arts 2024, 13(3), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/arts13030085 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This article explores the phenomenon of a specific type of personal adornment worn by members of the Scythian elite in the North Black Sea region in the second half of the 5th century and throughout the 4th century BCE. The discussion juxtaposes the [...] Read more.
This article explores the phenomenon of a specific type of personal adornment worn by members of the Scythian elite in the North Black Sea region in the second half of the 5th century and throughout the 4th century BCE. The discussion juxtaposes the records from 19th-century and early 20th-century excavations with contextual analyses of very recent discoveries from Ukraine, which shed significant new light on the appearance, production, and meaning of Scythian jewelry. The reconstruction of the shape of the jewelry type in question is greatly complicated by two factors: the lack of relevant depictions in the contemporary corpus of Scythian and Greco-Scythian figure scenes and misleading scholarly references to supposed analogies in a Roman-era mosaic, which became the chief reason for the misinterpretations of the ornament’s appearance. Composed of numerous gold or gilded silver tubes; beads; pendants; and, sometimes, “buttons,” this jewelry type is reconstructed in two gender-specific variants in this article: one mesh-like and the other with a cross-chest form. For over a hundred years, scholars have considered only the mesh variant to be the correct reconstruction. As a result, many costume reconstructions of this jewelry form in specialist research and museum displays alike are still proposed without a sufficient evidentiary base. Full article
20 pages, 681 KiB  
Article
The Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistance Phenotypes and Genotypes in Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Isolates from the Academic Hospital of Jaén, Spain
by Laura Morales, Antonio Cobo, María Pilar Frías, Antonio Gálvez and Elena Ortega
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050429 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The heterogenicity of antimicrobial resistance genes described in clinically significant bacterial isolates and their potential role in reducing the efficacy of classically effective antibiotics pose a major challenge for global healthcare, especially in infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. We analyzed 112 multidrug-resistant (MDR) [...] Read more.
The heterogenicity of antimicrobial resistance genes described in clinically significant bacterial isolates and their potential role in reducing the efficacy of classically effective antibiotics pose a major challenge for global healthcare, especially in infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. We analyzed 112 multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates from clinical samples in order to detect high resistance profiles, both phenotypically and genotypically, among four Gram-negative genera (Acinetobacter, Escherichia, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas). We found that 9.8% of the total selected isolates were classified as extensively drug-resistant (XDR) (six isolates identified as A. baumannii and five among P. pneumoniae isolates). All other isolates were classified as MDR. Almost 100% of the isolates showed positive results for blaOXA-23 and blaNDM-1 genes among the A. baumannii samples, one resistance gene (blaCTX-M) among E. coli, and two genetic determinants (blaCTX-M and aac(6′)-Ib) among Klebsiella. In contrast, P. aeruginosa showed just one high-frequency antibiotic resistance gene (dfrA), which was present in 68.42% of the isolates studied. We also describe positive associations between ampicillin and cefotaxime resistance in A. baumannii and the presence of blaVEB and blaGES genes, as well as between the aztreonam resistance phenotype and the presence of blaGES gene in E. coli. These data may be useful in achieving a better control of infection strategies and antibiotic management in clinical scenarios where these multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens cause higher morbidity and mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue ESKAPE Pathogen Infection and Antibiotic Resistance)
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10 pages, 979 KiB  
Article
Non-Cicatricial Alopecia and Its Association with Anthropometric Measurements and Nutritional Laboratory Markers
by Katarzyna Wróblewska-Kończalik, Mariola Pawlaczyk, Jerzy Kolasiński, Małgorzata Kolenda, Izabela Miechowicz, Agnieszka Seraszek-Jaros, Anna Kroma-Szal and Justyna Gornowicz-Porowska
Life 2024, 14(5), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14050609 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Alopecia constitutes one of the most common dermatological disorders, and its steadily increasing prevalence is a cause for concern. Alopecia can be divided into two main categories, cicatricial/scarring and non-cicatricial/non-scarring, depending on the causes of hair loss and its patterns. The aim of [...] Read more.
Alopecia constitutes one of the most common dermatological disorders, and its steadily increasing prevalence is a cause for concern. Alopecia can be divided into two main categories, cicatricial/scarring and non-cicatricial/non-scarring, depending on the causes of hair loss and its patterns. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between anthropometric and nutritional laboratory parameters in Caucasian adult women and men with non-cicatricial alopecia. A total of 50 patients (37 with non-cicatricial alopecia and 13 healthy controls) were included in the study. Clinical examination and scalp trichoscopy were performed. The anthropometric and nutritional laboratory parameters were collected and analyzed. No statistically significant differences in the laboratory findings were found. The patients with non-cicatricial alopecia were statistically significantly younger as compared to the controls. An elevated risk of hair loss, which was detected among the younger participants, might be associated with a modern lifestyle and the so-called ‘Western diet’. It seems safe to assume that suboptimal nutrition and poor eating habits during childhood might constitute risk factors for early hair loss. Full article
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16 pages, 3363 KiB  
Article
Topotecan and Ginkgolic Acid Inhibit the Expression and Transport Activity of Human Organic Anion Transporter 3 by Suppressing SUMOylation of the Transporter
by Zhou Yu and Guofeng You
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(5), 638; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16050638 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3), expressed at the basolateral membrane of kidney proximal tubule cells, facilitates the elimination of numerous metabolites, environmental toxins, and clinically important drugs. An earlier investigation from our laboratory revealed that OAT3 expression and transport activity can be upregulated [...] Read more.
Organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3), expressed at the basolateral membrane of kidney proximal tubule cells, facilitates the elimination of numerous metabolites, environmental toxins, and clinically important drugs. An earlier investigation from our laboratory revealed that OAT3 expression and transport activity can be upregulated by SUMOylation, a post-translational modification that covalently conjugates SUMO molecules to substrate proteins. Topotecan is a semi-synthetic derivative of the herbal extract camptothecin, approved by the FDA to treat several types of cancer. Ginkgolic acid (GA) is one of the major components in the extract of Ginkgo biloba leaves that has long been used in food supplements for preventing dementia, high blood pressure, and supporting stroke recovery. Both topotecan and GA have been shown to affect protein SUMOylation. In the current study, we tested our hypothesis that topotecan and GA may regulate OAT3 SUMOylation, expression, and transport function. Our data show that the treatment of OAT3-expressing cells with topotecan or GA significantly decreases the SUMOylation of OAT3 by 50% and 75%, respectively. The same treatment also led to substantial reductions in OAT3 expression and the OAT3-mediated transport of estrone sulfate, a prototypical substrate. Such reductions in cell surface expression of OAT3 correlated well with an increased rate of OAT3 degradation. Mechanistically, we discovered that topotecan enhanced the association between OAT3 and the SUMO-specific protease SENP2, a deSUMOylation enzyme, which contributed to the significant decrease in OAT3 SUMOylation. In conclusion, this study unveiled a novel role of topotecan and GA in inhibiting OAT3 expression and transport activity and accelerating OAT3 degradation by suppressing OAT3 SUMOylation. During comorbidity therapies, the use of topotecan or Ginkgo biloba extract could potentially decrease the transport activity of OAT3 in the kidneys, which will in turn affect the therapeutic efficacy and toxicity of many other drugs that are substrates for the transporter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Transporters in Drug Development)
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10 pages, 526 KiB  
Article
Impact of Nutritional Status on Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictor of Efficacy and Adverse Events of Immune Check-Point Inhibitors
by Masahiko Sue, Yasuto Takeuchi, Shoichiro Hirata, Akinobu Takaki and Motoyuki Otsuka
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1811; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101811 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The neutrophil -to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is useful for predicting the effectiveness of treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Because a growing body of evidence has recently shown that the number of lymphocytes that comprise NLR fluctuates according to [...] Read more.
The neutrophil -to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is useful for predicting the effectiveness of treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Because a growing body of evidence has recently shown that the number of lymphocytes that comprise NLR fluctuates according to nutritional status, this study examined whether the usefulness of NLR varies in ICI treatment due to changes in nutritional status. A retrospective analysis was performed on 1234 patients who received ICI treatment for malignant tumors at our hospital. Progression-free survival (PFS) was significantly prolonged in patients with NLR < 4. Multivariate analysis revealed that the factors associated with the occurrence of irAE were NLR < 4 and the use of ipilimumab. However, when limited to cases with serum albumin levels <3.8 g/dL, lymphocyte counts significantly decreased, and the associations between NLR and PFS and between NLR and irAE occurrence disappeared. In contrast, when limited to the cases with serum albumin levels ≥3.8 g/dL, the associations remained, with significantly prolonged PFS and significantly increased irAE occurrence at NLR < 4. NLR may be a good predictive tool for PFS and irAE occurrence during ICI treatment when a good nutritional status is maintained. Full article
32 pages, 3996 KiB  
Article
Intelligent Geo-Tour Route Recommendation Algorithm Based on Feature Text Mining and Spatial Accessibility Model
by Xiao Zhou, Zheng Zhang, Xinjian Liang and Mingzhan Su
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1845; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101845 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In view of the problems in planning and recommending tour routes, this paper constructs a feature text mining (FTM) method and spatial accessibility model (SAM) as the key factors for scenic spot recommendation (SSR) and tour route recommendation (TRR). The scenic spot clustering [...] Read more.
In view of the problems in planning and recommending tour routes, this paper constructs a feature text mining (FTM) method and spatial accessibility model (SAM) as the key factors for scenic spot recommendation (SSR) and tour route recommendation (TRR). The scenic spot clustering algorithm (SSCA) based on FTM was constructed by tourists’ text evaluation data mining. Considering the spatial attributes of scenic spots, the scenic spot topology tree algorithm (SSTTA) based on dynamic buffer spatial accessibility (DBSA) was constructed. The optimal scenic spots were recommended based on interest matching and spatial accessibility optimization. As to the recommended scenic spots, this paper proposes an optimal tour route recommendation algorithm (TRRA) based on SSTTA, which aims to determine the optimal adjacent section path structure tree (ASPST) with the lowest cost under travel constraints and transportation modes. The experiment verifies that the proposed algorithm can recommend scenic spots that match tourists’ interests and have optimal spatial accessibility, and the optimal tour routes with the lowest costs under certain travel constraints. Compared with the searched sub-optimal tour routes, the optimal tour route recommended by the proposed algorithm produces the lowest travel costs, and all the scenic spots in the tour route meet the tourists’ interests. Compared with the commonly used BDMA and GDMA methods, the proposed algorithm can determine the optimal routes with lower travel costs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Intelligent Systems and Networks, 2nd Edition)
23 pages, 516 KiB  
Article
A Net Present Value Analysis of Opportunity-Based Age Replacement Models in Discrete Time
by Jing Wu, Cunhua Qian and Tadashi Dohi
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1472; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101472 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Two important opportunistic age replacement models, under replacement first and last disciplines, are generalized in discrete time. The net present value (NPV) is applied to formulate the expected total costs. The priority of multiple replacement options is considered to classify the cost model [...] Read more.
Two important opportunistic age replacement models, under replacement first and last disciplines, are generalized in discrete time. The net present value (NPV) is applied to formulate the expected total costs. The priority of multiple replacement options is considered to classify the cost model with discounting into six cases. Since the NPV method accurately calculates the expected replacement costs over an infinite horizon in an unstable economic environment, we discuss some optimal opportunistic age replacement policies which minimize the expected total discounted costs over an infinite time horizon. Furthermore, we formulate a unified model under each discipline, merging six discrete time replacement models with probabilistic priority. Finally, a case study on optimal replacement first and last policies for pole air switches in a Japanese power company is presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reliability Estimation and Mathematical Statistics)
16 pages, 6741 KiB  
Article
Targeted Formation of Biofilms on the Surface of Graphite Electrodes as an Effective Approach to the Development of Biosensors for Early Warning Systems
by Anna Kharkova, Roman Perchikov, Saniyat Kurbanalieva, Kristina Osina, Nadezhda Popova, Andrey Machulin, Olga Kamanina, Evgeniya Saverina, Ivan Saltanov, Sergey Melenkov, Denis Butusov and Vyacheslav Arlyapov
Biosensors 2024, 14(5), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14050239 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Biofilms based on bacteria Pseudomonas veronii (Ps. veronii) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) and yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) were used for novel biosensor creation for rapid biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) monitoring. Based on the electrochemical measurement [...] Read more.
Biofilms based on bacteria Pseudomonas veronii (Ps. veronii) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) and yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) were used for novel biosensor creation for rapid biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) monitoring. Based on the electrochemical measurement results, it was shown that the endogenous mediator in the matrix of E. coli and Ps. veronii biofilms and ferrocene form a two-mediator system that improves electron transport in the system. Biofilms based on Ps. veronii and E. coli had a high biotechnological potential for BOD assessment; bioreceptors based on such biofilms had high sensitivity (the lower limits of detectable BOD5 concentrations were 0.61 (Ps. veronii) and 0.87 (E. coli) mg/dm3) and high efficiency of analysis (a measurement time 5–10 min). The maximum biosensor response based on bacterial biofilms has been observed in the pH range of 6.6–7.2. The greatest protective effect was found for biofilms based on E. coli, which has high long-term stability (151 days for Ps. veronii and 163 days for E. coli). The results of the BOD5 analysis of water samples obtained using the developed biosensors had a high correlation with the results of the standard 5-day method (R2 = 0.9820, number of tested samples is 10 for Ps. veronii, and R2 = 0.9862, number of tested samples is 10 for E. coli). Thus, biosensors based on Ps. veronii biofilms and E. coli biofilms could be a novel analytical system to give early warnings of pollution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell-Based Biosensors for Rapid Detection and Monitoring)
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