The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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27 pages, 2528 KiB  
Article
Assessing Multilateral Development Bank ESG Safeguard Integration with International Sustainability Ratings
by Damián Rodríguez Estévez and Rosa María Arce Ruíz
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3789; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093789 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
In an era where sustainability is paramount, this study critically assesses how multilateral development banks (MDBs) integrate internationally recognized sustainability indicators into their ESG safeguard policies. MDBs have historically incorporated policies to manage environmental and social risks in project financing; yet, protections against [...] Read more.
In an era where sustainability is paramount, this study critically assesses how multilateral development banks (MDBs) integrate internationally recognized sustainability indicators into their ESG safeguard policies. MDBs have historically incorporated policies to manage environmental and social risks in project financing; yet, protections against negative impacts in developing countries often remain insufficient. On the other hand, several infrastructure sustainability rating systems have been established around the world in recent decades due to economic growth and the importance of controlling environmental impacts associated with the construction sector. The purpose of this study was to analyze whether and how the indicators that these internationally recognized systems use to rate whether a project is sustainable are integrated into these safeguards by using several methodologies, including an analysis of existing documentation, a high-level matrix, and qualitative methods based on co-occurrences using specialized “atlas ti” software. The results show that MDBs’ coverage of financial, governance, and country risks lacks the sustainability focus found in these rating systems. Therefore, this study that concludes MDB safeguards must evolve, balancing comprehensive sustainability parameters and detailed management guidelines and addressing impacts beyond statutory frameworks to encourage stakeholder engagement for more sustainable infrastructure projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy as a Tool for Sustainable Development)
31 pages, 682 KiB  
Article
Best Business Models for the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Sector: Patterns for Innovation
by Sebastian Schroedel
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3787; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093787 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Mankind’s consumption exceeds our natural resources, so among other things, the development of new business models at the company level is needed. This paper aims to generate systematic business model innovations in the field of fast-moving consumer goods using business model patterns to [...] Read more.
Mankind’s consumption exceeds our natural resources, so among other things, the development of new business models at the company level is needed. This paper aims to generate systematic business model innovations in the field of fast-moving consumer goods using business model patterns to foster sustainability. Based on a literature search, the most relevant patterns for the industry are identified as part of a multi-stage selection process that is based on the value generated by the patterns. Expert surveys are the central instrument for data collection. Here, the connection of the patterns to the strategy is central. The result is a list of relevant patterns, which includes patterns from completely external industries. This is the first evaluation of its kind, which shows that patterns focusing only on the circular economy are not enough to succeed and, therefore, break the scientific paradigm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Business Model Innovation and Corporate Sustainability)
10 pages, 894 KiB  
Article
Cholesterol and Its Oxidation Derivatives Content in Market Dairy Products
by Małgorzata Czerwonka, Anna Gielecińska, Agnieszka Białek, Małgorzata Białek and Barbara Bobrowska-Korczak
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1371; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091371 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) are contaminants of food of animal origin. Increased levels of these compounds in the human body are associated with an increased risk of many non-communicable diseases. Dairy products are mentioned among the main sources of these compounds in the [...] Read more.
Cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) are contaminants of food of animal origin. Increased levels of these compounds in the human body are associated with an increased risk of many non-communicable diseases. Dairy products are mentioned among the main sources of these compounds in the diet. The objective of this study was to evaluate the contents of cholesterol and its oxidized derivatives in eleven groups of dairy products, willingly consumed in European countries. The levels of COPs were determined by applying the GC-TOF/MS method. In the tested products, cholesterol and its oxidation derivatives, such as 7-ketocholesterol, 7α-hydroxycholesterol, 7β-hydroxycholesterol, 5,6β-epoxycholesterol and 5,6α-epoxycholesterol, were determined. The studied dairy products differed in their contents and profiles of oxysterols. The highest contents of COPs were found in cheese with internal mold (13.8 ± 2.5 mg kg−1) and Cheddar (11.7 ± 3.5 mg kg−1), while the lowest levels were detected in yoghurt (0.94 ± 0.30 mg kg−1) and kefir (0.57 ± 0.11 mg kg−1). 7-ketocholesterol and 5,6β-epoxycholesterol were the dominant oxysterols. The ratio of oxidized derivatives to total cholesterol was on average 1.7%. Our results confirmed that dairy products are an important dietary source of COPs. Their levels should be monitored in dairy products to provide the best health quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Lipids in Health and Disease Prevention)
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21 pages, 2405 KiB  
Article
Globospiramine from Voacanga globosa Exerts Robust Cytotoxic and Antiproliferative Activities on Cancer Cells by Inducing Caspase-Dependent Apoptosis in A549 Cells and Inhibiting MAPK14 (p38α): In Vitro and Computational Investigations
by Joe Anthony H. Manzano, Elian Angelo Abellanosa, Jose Paolo Aguilar, Simone Brogi, Chia-Hung Yen, Allan Patrick G. Macabeo and Nicanor Austriaco
Cells 2024, 13(9), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13090772 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Bisindole alkaloids are a source of inspiration for the design and discovery of new-generation anticancer agents. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities of three spirobisindole alkaloids from the traditional anticancer Philippine medicinal plant Voacanga globosa, along with their [...] Read more.
Bisindole alkaloids are a source of inspiration for the design and discovery of new-generation anticancer agents. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities of three spirobisindole alkaloids from the traditional anticancer Philippine medicinal plant Voacanga globosa, along with their mechanisms of action. Thus, the alkaloids globospiramine (1), deoxyvobtusine (2), and vobtusine lactone (3) showed in vitro cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activities against the tested cell lines (L929, KB3.1, A431, MCF-7, A549, PC-3, and SKOV-3) using MTT and CellTiter-Blue assays. Globospiramine (1) was also screened against a panel of breast cancer cell lines using the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay and showed moderate cytotoxicity. It also promoted the activation of apoptotic effector caspases 3 and 7 using Caspase–Glo 3/7 and CellEvent-3/7 apoptosis assays. Increased expressions of cleaved caspase 3 and PARP in A549 cells treated with 1 were also observed. Apoptotic activity was also confirmed when globospiramine (1) failed to promote the rapid loss of membrane integrity according to the HeLa cell membrane permeability assay. Network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations identified MAPK14 (p38α), a pharmacological target leading to cancer cell apoptosis, as a putative target. Low toxicity risks and favorable drug-likeness were also predicted for 1. Overall, our study demonstrated the anticancer potentials and apoptotic mechanisms of globospiramine (1), validating the traditional medicinal use of Voacanga globosa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Apoptosis in Cancers)
13 pages, 303 KiB  
Article
Developmental Profile in Children Aged 3–6 Years: Down Syndrome vs. Autism Spectrum Disorder
by Patricia López Resa and Esther Moraleda Sepúlveda
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050380 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
This research aims to compare the developmental profiles of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and children with Down Syndrome (DS) between the ages of 3 and 6 years. The study examines whether these developmental disorders share common developmental milestones or exhibit distinctive [...] Read more.
This research aims to compare the developmental profiles of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and children with Down Syndrome (DS) between the ages of 3 and 6 years. The study examines whether these developmental disorders share common developmental milestones or exhibit distinctive characteristics. A total of 43 children, 23 with DS and 20 with ASD, participated in the study. Cognitive and language skills were assessed using standardized tools, including the Battelle Developmental Inventory, Reynell Developmental Language Scales III, and NEPSY-II battery. The results indicated that children with ASD outperformed children with DS in the areas of fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and communication. Additionally, children with ASD demonstrated higher scores in language comprehension and expressive language, compared to children with DS. Significant correlations were found between motor skills and communication abilities. Neuropsychological evaluations revealed significant differences between the two groups in various tasks, such as the comprehension of instructions, body part naming and identification, and recognition of emotions. These findings contribute to our understanding of the similarities and differences between ASD and DS, shedding light on the dissociation between cognition and language and its impact on adaptive functioning in these populations. Full article
12 pages, 830 KiB  
Article
Active Soil Organic Carbon Pools Decrease with Increased Time since Land-Use Transition from Rice Paddy Cultivation to Areca Nut Plantations under the Long-Term Application of Inorganic Fertilizer
by Yunxing Wan, Qilin Zhu, Lijun Liu, Shuirong Tang, Yanzheng Wu, Xiaoqian Dan, Lei Meng, Qiuxiang He, Ahmed S. Elrys and Jinbo Zhang
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050946 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Many croplands in the tropics of China have been converted over the last decades into areca nut plantations due to their high economic returns. This land-use transition was accompanied by changes in agricultural practices such as soil moisture regimes and fertilizer inputs, which [...] Read more.
Many croplands in the tropics of China have been converted over the last decades into areca nut plantations due to their high economic returns. This land-use transition was accompanied by changes in agricultural practices such as soil moisture regimes and fertilizer inputs, which may affect soil organic carbon (SOC) and its fractions, especially in tropical soils with low fertility and high nitrogen loss. Yet, how the time since land-use transition from rice paddy cultivation to areca nut plantations affects soil carbon dynamics and their underlying mechanisms in the tropics of China remains elusive. Here, areca nut plantation soils with different ages (2, 5, 10, 14, and 17 years) and paddy fields in the tropical region of China were investigated. The study result indicates that the contents of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), particulate organic carbon (POC), easily oxidized organic carbon (EOC), light organic carbon (LFOC), and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) decreased significantly with increased time since land-use transition from rice paddy cultivation to areca nut plantations. Similarly, the ratios of DOC/SOC, MBC/SOC, POC/SOC, LFOC/SOC, and EOC/SOC decreased significantly with increased time since land-use transition. Compared with the paddy soil, the carbon pool management index decreased by 36.6–76.7% under the areca nut plantations, concluding that increasing the time since land-use transition from rice paddy cultivation to areca nut plantations with high application rates of chemical fertilizers resulted in reduced soil active carbon fractions and SOC supply capacity. Therefore, agricultural practices such as the use of organic fertilizers should be applied to improve the soil’s ability to supply organic carbon in managed plantation ecosystems in the tropics of China. Full article
15 pages, 1392 KiB  
Article
Variability in the Qualitative and Quantitative Composition of Phenolic Compounds and the In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Sour Cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) Leaves
by Kristina Zymonė, Mindaugas Liaudanskas, Juozas Lanauskas, Miglė Nagelytė and Valdimaras Janulis
Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050553 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Sour cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) is a deciduous tree belonging to the Rosaceae Juss. family. Cherry leaves are an underutilized source of biologically active compounds. The aim of this study was to determine the composition of the phenolic compounds, as well as [...] Read more.
Sour cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) is a deciduous tree belonging to the Rosaceae Juss. family. Cherry leaves are an underutilized source of biologically active compounds. The aim of this study was to determine the composition of the phenolic compounds, as well as the total antioxidant activity, in leaf samples of P. cerasus cultivars and to elucidate the cultivars with particular phytochemical compositions. The phytochemical profiles of P. cerasus leaves vary significantly in a cultivar-dependent manner. The total content of identified phenolic compounds varied from 8.254 to 16.199 mg/g in the cherry leaves. Chlorogenic acid ranged between 1413.3 µg/g (‘North Star’) and 8028.0 µg/g (‘Note’). The total content of flavonols varied from 4172.5 µg/g (‘Vytenu zvaigzde’) to 9030.7 µg/g (‘Tikhonovskaya’). The total content of identified proanthocyanidins varied from 122.3 µg/g (‘Note’) to 684.8 µg/g (‘Kelleris’). The highest levels of phloridzin (38.1 ± 0.9 µg/g) were found in samples of ‘Molodezhnaya’, while the lowest level of this compound was determined in the leaf samples of ‘Turgenevka’ (6.7 ± 0.2). The strongest antiradical (138.0 ± 4.0 µmol TE/g, p < 0.05) and reducing (364.9 ± 10.5 µmol TE/g, p < 0.05) activity in vitro was exhibited by the cultivar ‘Vytenu zvaigzde’ cherry leaf sample extracts. ‘Kelleris’, ‘Note’, and ‘Tikhonovskaya’ distinguish themselves with peculiar phytochemical compositions. Full article
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13 pages, 589 KiB  
Review
Ice-Nucleating Gut Microbes in Insects: A Scoping Review
by Matan Shelomi
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(2), 708-720; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15020046 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background. At subzero temperatures, water crystallizes on ice nucleation agents. Researchers have identified ice-nucleating microbes (INMs) in insect digestive tracts that can raise the insect’s supercooling point, causing freezing at higher temperatures but slower rates. For freeze-tolerant insects, such gut microbes should [...] Read more.
(1) Background. At subzero temperatures, water crystallizes on ice nucleation agents. Researchers have identified ice-nucleating microbes (INMs) in insect digestive tracts that can raise the insect’s supercooling point, causing freezing at higher temperatures but slower rates. For freeze-tolerant insects, such gut microbes should allow for slower freezing away from tissues and higher survival rates. For freeze-susceptible insects, however, such microbes could cause a fatal freeze at higher temperatures, and could possibly be used as biocontrol. (2) Methods. A first-ever scoping review was carried out of research on insect-associated INMs, from observational studies attempting to isolate these microbes, to experimental studies applying them and checking for increased mortality. (3) Results. Relatively few research groups have studied insect-associated INMs in any capacity. (4) Conclusions. Several authors hypothesized that such microbes are probably abundant, and their contribution to ice nucleation activity in insects is under-reported. Biocontrol assays using ice-nucleating microbes showed promise, but a risk to non-target organisms has been experimentally confirmed. Future surveys of insect–microbe interactions using molecular tools are likely to reveal new examples, if not new microbe species capable of ice nucleation. Full article
18 pages, 408 KiB  
Systematic Review
Digital Apps to Improve Mobility in Adults with Neurological Conditions: A Health App-Focused Systematic Review
by Reem Rendell, Marina Pinheiro, Belinda Wang, Fiona McKay, Ashleigh Ewen, Catherine Carnegie, Erin Tikomaidelana, Zino Fattah and Leanne Hassett
Healthcare 2024, 12(9), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12090929 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The provision of mobility exercises through a smartphone application (app) for people undertaking neurological rehabilitation may improve mobility outcomes. However, it is difficult for clinicians and consumers to select high-quality, appropriate apps. This review aimed to identify (1) which mobile health (mHealth) apps [...] Read more.
The provision of mobility exercises through a smartphone application (app) for people undertaking neurological rehabilitation may improve mobility outcomes. However, it is difficult for clinicians and consumers to select high-quality, appropriate apps. This review aimed to identify (1) which mobile health (mHealth) apps are suitable for prescribing mobility exercises for adults with neurological health conditions, (2) how well these apps incorporate telehealth strategies, and (3) how well these apps rate in terms of quality and capacity for behaviour change. The Australian Apple iTunes Store was systematically searched, by using a search code and manually, for apps suitable for training mobility in neurological rehabilitation. Additional searches were conducted in known app repositories and for web-based apps. Trained reviewers extracted data from the included apps, including population-specific characteristics; quality, by using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS); and behaviour change potential, by using the App Behaviour Change Scale (ABACUS). The included apps (n = 18) provided <50 to >10,000 exercises, many incurred a subscription fee (n = 13), and half included telehealth features. App quality was moderate (mean MARS score of 3.2/5 and SD of 0.5), and potential for behaviour change was poor (mean ABACUS score of 5.7/21 and SD of 2.1). A limited number of high-quality apps are available for the prescription of mobility exercises in people with neurological conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Telerehabilitation for Optimising Recovery)
35 pages, 518 KiB  
Article
Novel Robust Estimation-Based Control of One-Sided Lipschitz Nonlinear Systems Subject to Output and Input Delays
by Sohaira Ahmad, Muhammad Rehan, Anas Ibrar, Muhammad Umair Ali, Amad Zafar and Seong Han Kim
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1374; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091374 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper highlights the design of a controller established on estimated states for one-sided Lipschitz (OSL) nonlinear systems subject to output and input delays. The controller has been devised by involving Luenberger-like estimated states. The stability of the time-delayed nonlinear system is reckoned [...] Read more.
This paper highlights the design of a controller established on estimated states for one-sided Lipschitz (OSL) nonlinear systems subject to output and input delays. The controller has been devised by involving Luenberger-like estimated states. The stability of the time-delayed nonlinear system is reckoned by assuming a Lyapunov functional for delayed dynamics and for which a delay-range dependent criterion is posed with a delay ranging between known upper and lower bounds. The time derivative of the functional is further exploited with linear matrix inequality (LMI) procedures, and employing Wirtinger’s inequality for the integral terms instead of the traditional and more conservative Jensen’s condition. Moreover, a sufficient and necessary solution is derived for the proposed design by involving the tedious decoupling technique to attain controller and observer gain simultaneously. The proposed methodology validates the observer error stability between observers and states asymptotically. The solution of matrix inequalities was obtained by employing cone-complementary linearization techniques to solve the tiresome constraints through simulation tools by convex optimization. Additionally, a novel scheme of an observer-based controller for the linear counterpart is also derived for one-sided Lipschitz nonlinear systems with multiple delays. Finally, the effectualness of the presented observer-based controller under input and output delays for one-sided Lipschitz nonlinear systems is validated by considering a numerical simulation of mobile systems in Cartesian coordinates. Full article
18 pages, 1736 KiB  
Article
Study on the Failure Process and Acoustic Emission Characteristics of Freeze–Thawed Sandstone under Cyclic Loading and Unloading
by Chaoyun Yu, Shenghui Huang, Junkun Li, Xiangye Wu, Yuhang Tian and Xiankai Bao
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1264; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051264 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
In order to investigate freeze–thawed red sandstone failure processes under cyclic loading and unloading conditions, real-time acoustic emission (AE) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques were used to reveal the fracture process of the saturated red sandstone after cyclic loading and unloading tests [...] Read more.
In order to investigate freeze–thawed red sandstone failure processes under cyclic loading and unloading conditions, real-time acoustic emission (AE) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques were used to reveal the fracture process of the saturated red sandstone after cyclic loading and unloading tests using uniaxial compression. The results show that the stress–strain curves of the freeze–thawed sandstones show signs of hysteresis and exhibit a two-stage evolution of “sparse → dense”. In the cyclic loading and unloading process, the modulus of elasticity in the loading process is always larger than that in the unloading process, while the Poisson’s ratio is the opposite, and the radial irreversible strain and cumulative irreversible strain are larger than those in the axial direction. As the number of freeze–thaw cycles increases, the rock specimens need more cycles of loading and unloading to make the crack volume compressive strain Δεcv+ reach the maximum value and tend to stabilize, while the crack volume extensional strain Δεcv tends to decrease gradually. This study also shows that the growth phase of the cyclic loading and unloading process has more ringing counts and a shorter duration, while the slow degradation phase has more ringing counts with loading and less with unloading. In addition, the F-T cycle gradually changes the internal microcracks of the red sandstone from shear damage, which is dominated by shear cracks, to tensile damage, which is dominated by tensile cracks. This study’s findings contribute to our knowledge of the mechanical characteristics and sandstone’s degradation process following F-T treatment, and also serve as a guide for engineering stability analyses conducted in the presence of multiphysical field coupling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Construction in Urban Underground Space)
24 pages, 6544 KiB  
Article
Prediction Model of Coal Gas Permeability Based on Improved DBO Optimized BP Neural Network
by Wei Wang, Xinchao Cui, Yun Qi, Kailong Xue, Ran Liang and Chenhao Bai
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2873; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092873 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Accurate measurement of coal gas permeability helps prevent coal gas safety accidents effectively. To predict permeability more accurately, we propose the IDBO-BPNN coal body gas permeability prediction model. This model combines the Improved Dung Beetle algorithm (IDBO) with the BP neural network (BPNN). [...] Read more.
Accurate measurement of coal gas permeability helps prevent coal gas safety accidents effectively. To predict permeability more accurately, we propose the IDBO-BPNN coal body gas permeability prediction model. This model combines the Improved Dung Beetle algorithm (IDBO) with the BP neural network (BPNN). First, the Sine chaotic mapping, Osprey optimization algorithm, and adaptive T-distribution dynamic selection strategy are integrated to enhance the DBO algorithm and improve its global search capability. Then, IDBO is utilized to optimize the weights and thresholds in BPNN to enhance its prediction accuracy and mitigate the risk of overfitting to some extent. Secondly, based on the influencing factors of gas permeability, effective stress, gas pressure, temperature, and compressive strength, they are chosen as the coupling indicators. The SPSS 27 software is used to analyze the correlation among the indicators using the Pearson correlation coefficient matrix. Additionally, the Kernel Principal Component Analysis (KPCA) is employed to extract the original data. Then, the original data is divided into principal component data for the model input. The prediction results of the IDBO-BPNN model are compared with those of the PSO-BPNN, PSO-LSSVM, PSO-SVM, MPA-BPNN, WOA-SVM, BES-SVM, and DPO-BPNN models. This comparison assesses the capability of KPCA to enhance the accuracy of model predictions and the performance of the IDBO-BPNN model. Finally, the IDBO-BPNN model is tested using data from a coal mine in Shanxi. The results indicate that the predicted outcome closely aligns with the actual value, confirming the reliability and stability of the model. Therefore, the IDBO-BPNN model is better suited for predicting coal gas permeability in academic research writing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensor Networks)
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9 pages, 403 KiB  
Communication
Blood Lead Level as Marker of Increased Risk of Ovarian Cancer in BRCA1 Carriers
by Adam Kiljańczyk, Milena Matuszczak, Wojciech Marciniak, Róża Derkacz, Klaudia Stempa, Piotr Baszuk, Marta Bryśkiewicz, Krzysztof Lubiński, Cezary Cybulski, Tadeusz Dębniak, Jacek Gronwald, Tomasz Huzarski, Marcin R. Lener, Anna Jakubowska, Marek Szwiec, Małgorzata Stawicka-Niełacna, Dariusz Godlewski, Artur Prusaczyk, Andrzej Jasiewicz, Tomasz Kluz, Joanna Tomiczek-Szwiec, Ewa Kilar-Kobierzycka, Monika Siołek, Rafał Wiśniowski, Renata Posmyk, Joanna Jarkiewicz-Tretyn, Ping Sun, Rodney J. Scott, Steven A. Narod and Jan Lubińskiadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1370; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091370 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
BRCA1 mutations substantially elevate the risks of breast and ovarian cancer. Various modifiers, including environmental factors, can influence cancer risk. Lead, a known carcinogen, has been associated with various cancers, but its impact on BRCA1 carriers remains unexplored. A cohort of 989 BRCA1 [...] Read more.
BRCA1 mutations substantially elevate the risks of breast and ovarian cancer. Various modifiers, including environmental factors, can influence cancer risk. Lead, a known carcinogen, has been associated with various cancers, but its impact on BRCA1 carriers remains unexplored. A cohort of 989 BRCA1 mutation carriers underwent genetic testing at the Pomeranian Medical University, Poland. Blood lead levels were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Each subject was assigned to a category based on their tertile of blood lead. Cox regression analysis was used to assess cancer risk associations. Elevated blood lead levels (>13.6 μg/L) were associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer (univariable: HR = 3.33; 95% CI: 1.23–9.00; p = 0.02; multivariable: HR = 2.10; 95% CI: 0.73–6.01; p = 0.17). No significant correlation was found with breast cancer risk. High blood lead levels are associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer in BRCA1 carriers, suggesting priority for preventive salpingo-oophorectomy. Potential risk reduction strategies include detoxification. Validation in diverse populations and exploration of detoxification methods for lowering lead levels are required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrigenetics: Implications for Whole Life)
16 pages, 1583 KiB  
Article
Anticancer Effects of Mitoquinone via Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Canine Mammary Gland Tumor Cells
by Ran Lee, Won-Young Lee and Hyun-Jung Park
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4923; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094923 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Treating female canine mammary gland tumors is crucial owing to their propensity for rapid progression and metastasis, significantly impacting the overall health and well-being of dogs. Mitoquinone (MitoQ), an antioxidant, has shown promise in inhibiting the migration, invasion, and clonogenicity of human breast [...] Read more.
Treating female canine mammary gland tumors is crucial owing to their propensity for rapid progression and metastasis, significantly impacting the overall health and well-being of dogs. Mitoquinone (MitoQ), an antioxidant, has shown promise in inhibiting the migration, invasion, and clonogenicity of human breast cancer cells. Thus, we investigated MitoQ’s potential anticancer properties against canine mammary gland tumor cells, CMT-U27 and CF41.Mg. MitoQ markedly suppressed the proliferation and migration of both CMT-U27 and CF41.Mg cells and induced apoptotic cell death in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, treatment with MitoQ led to increased levels of pro-apoptotic proteins, including cleaved-caspase3, BAX, and phospho-p53. Cell cycle analysis revealed that MitoQ hindered cell progression in the G1 and S phases in CMT-U27 and CF41.Mg cells. These findings were supported using western blot analysis, demonstrating elevated levels of cleaved caspase-3, a hallmark of apoptosis, and decreased expression of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 2 and cyclin D4, pivotal regulators of the cell cycle. In conclusion, MitoQ exhibits in vitro antitumor effects by inducing apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle in canine mammary gland tumors, suggesting its potential as a preventive or therapeutic agent against canine mammary cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Molecular Perspective on Reproductive Health)
20 pages, 2767 KiB  
Article
Effects of Flaxseed Mucilage Admixture on Ordinary Portland Cement Fresh and Hardened States
by Haris Brevet, Rose-Marie Dheilly, Nicolas Montrelay, Koffi Justin Houessou, Emmanuel Petit and Adeline Goullieux
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3862; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093862 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
France is Europe’s leading producer of flaxseed. This seed is rich in omega-3, energy, and protein for animals, but it also contains anti-nutritional factors such as mucilage. Thus, mucilage must be removed and could be used as a bio-admixture in cementitious materials development, [...] Read more.
France is Europe’s leading producer of flaxseed. This seed is rich in omega-3, energy, and protein for animals, but it also contains anti-nutritional factors such as mucilage. Thus, mucilage must be removed and could be used as a bio-admixture in cementitious materials development, reducing the environmental impact of cementitious materials. This study aims to valorize the usage of flaxseed mucilage (FM) in ordinary Portland cement. FM caused macroscopic and microscopic changes in the materials studied. The higher the concentration, the greater the changes were. The admixed samples showed an exponentially concentration-dependent delay in setting. FM degradation products induced by the cementitious conditions accentuated the delay. However, this delay in setting did not affect the hydrates’ growth in the material. In fact, FM showed a “delay accelerator” behavior, meaning that once hydration began, it was accelerated as compared to a reference. Macroscopically, FM induced significant flocculation, increasing material porosity and carbonation. Consequently, bulk density and thermal conductivity were reduced. At the highest amount of FM admixture (0.75% w/w), FM allowed bridge formation between Ca(OH)2 crystals, which can improve the mechanical properties of mortars. Because FM is highly hygroscopic, it has the capability to absorb water and subsequently release it gradually and under controlled conditions into the cement matrix. Therefore, regulation of water diffusion from the mucilage may induce the self-healing properties responsible for mechanical properties similar to that of the reference in the medium to long term. Full article
39 pages, 937 KiB  
Review
Advancements in Synthetic Strategies and Biological Effects of Ciprofloxacin Derivatives: A Review
by Vuyolwethu Khwaza, Sithenkosi Mlala and Blessing A. Aderibigbe
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4919; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094919 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Ciprofloxacin is a widely used antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone class. It is widely acknowledged by various researchers worldwide, and it has been documented to have a broad range of other pharmacological activities, such as anticancer, antiviral, antimalarial activities, etc. Researchers have been exploring [...] Read more.
Ciprofloxacin is a widely used antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone class. It is widely acknowledged by various researchers worldwide, and it has been documented to have a broad range of other pharmacological activities, such as anticancer, antiviral, antimalarial activities, etc. Researchers have been exploring the synthesis of ciprofloxacin derivatives with enhanced biological activities or tailored capability to target specific pathogens. The various biological activities of some of the most potent and promising ciprofloxacin derivatives, as well as the synthetic strategies used to develop them, are thoroughly reviewed in this paper. Modification of ciprofloxacin via 4-oxo-3-carboxylic acid resulted in derivatives with reduced efficacy against bacterial strains. Hybrid molecules containing ciprofloxacin scaffolds displayed promising biological effects. The current review paper provides reported findings on the development of novel ciprofloxacin-based molecules with enhanced potency and intended therapeutic activities which will be of great interest to medicinal chemists. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development and Synthesis of Biologically Active Compounds)
14 pages, 1413 KiB  
Article
Exposure to Microcystin-LR Promotes Colorectal Cancer Progression by Altering Gut Microbiota and Associated Metabolites in APCmin/+ Mice
by Yuechi Song, Xiaochang Wang, Xiaohui Lu and Ting Wang
Toxins 2024, 16(5), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins16050212 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Microcystins (MCs), toxins generated by cyanobacteria, feature microcystin-LR (MC-LR) as one of the most prevalent and toxic variants in aquatic environments. MC-LR not only causes environmental problems but also presents a substantial risk to human health. This study aimed to investigate the impact [...] Read more.
Microcystins (MCs), toxins generated by cyanobacteria, feature microcystin-LR (MC-LR) as one of the most prevalent and toxic variants in aquatic environments. MC-LR not only causes environmental problems but also presents a substantial risk to human health. This study aimed to investigate the impact of MC-LR on APCmin/+ mice, considered as an ideal animal model for intestinal tumors. We administered 40 µg/kg MC-LR to mice by gavage for 8 weeks, followed by histopathological examination, microbial diversity and metabolomics analysis. The mice exposed to MC-LR exhibited a significant promotion in colorectal cancer progression and impaired intestinal barrier function in the APCmin/+ mice compared with the control. Gut microbial dysbiosis was observed in the MC-LR-exposed mice, manifesting a notable alteration in the structure of the gut microbiota. This included the enrichment of Marvinbryantia, Gordonibacter and Family_XIII_AD3011_group and reductions in Faecalibaculum and Lachnoclostridium. Metabolomics analysis revealed increased bile acid (BA) metabolites in the intestinal contents of the mice exposed to MC-LR, particularly taurocholic acid (TCA), alpha-muricholic acid (α-MCA), 3-dehydrocholic acid (3-DHCA), 7-ketodeoxycholic acid (7-KDCA) and 12-ketodeoxycholic acid (12-KDCA). Moreover, we found that Marvinbryantia and Family_XIII_AD3011_group showed the strongest positive correlation with taurocholic acid (TCA) in the mice exposed to MC-LR. These findings provide new insights into the roles and mechanisms of MC-LR in susceptible populations, providing a basis for guiding values of MC-LR in drinking water. Full article
19 pages, 814 KiB  
Article
Exploring Propolis as a Sustainable Bio-Preservative Agent to Control Foodborne Pathogens in Vacuum-Packed Cooked Ham
by Eugenia Rendueles, Elba Mauriz, Javier Sanz-Gómez, Ana M. González-Paramás, Félix Adanero-Jorge and Camino García-Fernández
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050914 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The search for natural food additives makes propolis an exciting alternative due to its known antimicrobial activity. This work aims to investigate propolis’ behavior as a nitrite substitute ingredient in cooked ham (a ready-to-eat product) when confronted with pathogenic microorganisms of food interest. [...] Read more.
The search for natural food additives makes propolis an exciting alternative due to its known antimicrobial activity. This work aims to investigate propolis’ behavior as a nitrite substitute ingredient in cooked ham (a ready-to-eat product) when confronted with pathogenic microorganisms of food interest. The microbial evolution of Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Clostridium sporogenes inoculated at known doses was examined in different batches of cooked ham. The design of a challenge test according to their shelf life (45 days), pH values, and water activity allowed the determination of the mesophilic aerobic flora, psychotropic, and acid lactic bacteria viability. The test was completed with an organoleptic analysis of the samples, considering possible alterations in color and texture. The cooked ham formulation containing propolis instead of nitrites limited the potential growth (δ < 0.5 log10) of all the inoculated microorganisms until day 45, except for L. monocytogenes, which in turn exhibited a bacteriostatic effect between day 7 and 30 of the storage time. The sensory analysis revealed the consumer’s acceptance of cooked ham batches including propolis as a natural additive. These findings suggest the functionality of propolis as a promising alternative to artificial preservatives for ensuring food safety and reducing the proliferation risk of foodborne pathogens in ready-to-eat products. Full article
13 pages, 4163 KiB  
Communication
Microwave Flow Cytometric Detection and Differentiation of Escherichia coli
by Neelima Dahal, Caroline Peak, Carl Ehrett, Jeffrey Osterberg, Min Cao, Ralu Divan and Pingshan Wang
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2870; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092870 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Label-free measurement and analysis of single bacterial cells are essential for food safety monitoring and microbial disease diagnosis. We report a microwave flow cytometric sensor with a microstrip sensing device with reduced channel height for bacterial cell measurement. Escherichia coli B and Escherichia [...] Read more.
Label-free measurement and analysis of single bacterial cells are essential for food safety monitoring and microbial disease diagnosis. We report a microwave flow cytometric sensor with a microstrip sensing device with reduced channel height for bacterial cell measurement. Escherichia coli B and Escherichia coli K-12 were measured with the sensor at frequencies between 500 MHz and 8 GHz. The results show microwave properties of E. coli cells are frequency-dependent. A LightGBM model was developed to classify cell types at a high accuracy of 0.96 at 1 GHz. Thus, the sensor provides a promising label-free method to rapidly detect and differentiate bacterial cells. Nevertheless, the method needs to be further developed by comprehensively measuring different types of cells and demonstrating accurate cell classification with improved machine-learning techniques. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Machine Learning and Biomedical Sensors)
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27 pages, 4341 KiB  
Article
Cross-Shore Modeling Features: Calibration and Impacts of Wave Climate Uncertainties
by Frederico Romão, Carlos Coelho, Márcia Lima, Hrólfur Ásmundsson and Eric M. Myer
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 760; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050760 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Numerical models can be powerful tools for evaluating the best scenarios for the construction of artificial nourishments to mitigate coastal erosion. Until recent decades, when looking at medium- to long-term simulations, cross-shore and alongshore processes have been studied separately. Accounting for both processes [...] Read more.
Numerical models can be powerful tools for evaluating the best scenarios for the construction of artificial nourishments to mitigate coastal erosion. Until recent decades, when looking at medium- to long-term simulations, cross-shore and alongshore processes have been studied separately. Accounting for both processes in a shoreline evolution numerical model would improve the understanding and predictive capacity of future changes in coastline evolution. The AX-COAST project aims to develop new capacities in modeling cross-shore sediment transport processes by adding the CS-Model, a cross-shore numerical model, into the existing LTC (Long-Term Configuration) model. The LTC model is a shoreline evolution numerical model which is a module of the cost–benefit assessment tool COAST. This work presents the first steps of the CS-Model implementation, which involve evaluating its performance by calibrating the model with extensive measured datasets of wave climate, beach profiles, tide levels, etc., from coastal areas in IJmuiden and Sand Motor in the Netherlands. The results show good agreement between modeled and observed values. Additionally, wave climate datasets derived from global and regional wave models were considered to evaluate modeling performance at IJmuiden. Using derived timeseries from the wave models did not significantly lead to different results compared to using measured data. The obtained mean absolute and relative errors for each profile were low for both types of datasets. Calibration processes with consistent data are important in modeling simulations to accurately represent the study area and ensure the credibility of future simulations. Full article
5 pages, 196 KiB  
Editorial
Editorial for the Special Issue “Machine Learning in Computer Vision and Image Sensing: Theory and Applications”
by Subrata Chakraborty and Biswajeet Pradhan
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2874; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092874 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the original article [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensing and Imaging)
17 pages, 4720 KiB  
Article
MortalityMinder: Visualization and AI Interpretations of Social Determinants of Premature Mortality in the United States
by Karan Bhanot, John S. Erickson and Kristin P. Bennett
Information 2024, 15(5), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15050254 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
MortalityMinder enables healthcare researchers, providers, payers, and policy makers to gain actionable insights into where and why premature mortality rates due to all causes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and deaths of despair rose between 2000 and 2017 for adults aged 25–64. MortalityMinder is designed [...] Read more.
MortalityMinder enables healthcare researchers, providers, payers, and policy makers to gain actionable insights into where and why premature mortality rates due to all causes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and deaths of despair rose between 2000 and 2017 for adults aged 25–64. MortalityMinder is designed as an open-source web-based visualization tool that enables interactive analysis and exploration of social, economic, and geographic factors associated with mortality at the county level. We provide case studies to illustrate how MortalityMinder finds interesting relationships between health determinants and deaths of despair. We also demonstrate how GPT-4 can help translate statistical results from MortalityMinder into actionable insights to improve population health. When combined with MortalityMinder results, GPT-4 provides hypotheses on why socio-economic risk factors are associated with mortality, how they might be causal, and what actions could be taken related to the risk factors to improve outcomes with supporting citations. We find that GPT-4 provided plausible and insightful answers about the relationship between social determinants and mortality. Our work is a first step towards enabling public health stakeholders to automatically discover and visualize relationships between social determinants of health and mortality based on available data and explain and transform these into meaningful results using artificial intelligence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interactive Machine Learning and Visual Data Mining)
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15 pages, 4481 KiB  
Article
A Deformation Analysis Method for Sluice Structure Based on Panel Data
by Zekai Ma, Benxing Lou, Zhenzhong Shen, Fuheng Ma, Xiang Luo, Wei Ye, Xing Li and Dongze Li
Water 2024, 16(9), 1287; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16091287 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Deformation, as the most intuitive index, can reflect the operation status of hydraulic structures comprehensively, and reasonable analysis of deformation behavior has important guiding significance for structural long-term service. Currently, the health evaluation of dam deformation behavior has attracted widespread attention and extensive [...] Read more.
Deformation, as the most intuitive index, can reflect the operation status of hydraulic structures comprehensively, and reasonable analysis of deformation behavior has important guiding significance for structural long-term service. Currently, the health evaluation of dam deformation behavior has attracted widespread attention and extensive research from scholars due to its great importance. However, given that the sluice is a low-head hydraulic structure, the consequences of its failure are easily overlooked without sufficient attention. While the influencing factors of the sluice’s deformation are almost identical to those of a concrete dam, nonuniform deformation is the key issue in the sluice’s case because of the uneven property of the external load and soil foundation, and referencing the traditional deformation statistical model of a concrete dam cannot directly represent the nonuniform deformation behavior of a sluice. In this paper, we assume that the deformation at various positions of the sluice consist of both overall and individual effects, where overall effect values describe the deformation response trend of the sluice structure under external loads, and individual effect values represent the degree to which the deformation of a single point deviates from the overall deformation. Then, the random coefficient model of panel data is introduced into the analysis of sluice deformation to handle the unobservable overall and individual effects. Furthermore, the maximum entropy principle is applied, both to approximate the probability distribution function of individual effect extreme values and to determine the early warning indicators, completing the assessment and analysis of the nonuniform deformation state. Finally, taking a project as an example, we show that the method proposed can effectively identify the overall deformation trend of the sluice and the deviation degree of each measuring point from the overall deformation, which provides a novel approach for sluice deformation behavior research. Full article
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