The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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13 pages, 4092 KiB  
Article
Photoperiod-Dependent Nutrient Accumulation in Rice Cultivated in Plant Factories: A Comparative Metabolomic Analysis
by Jingyao Yu, Yu Yang, Lanjun Luo, Fang Feng, Sana Saeed, Jie Luo, Chuanying Fang, Junjie Zhou and Kang Li
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1544; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101544 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Plant factories offer a promising solution to some of the challenges facing traditional agriculture, allowing for year-round rapid production of plant-derived foods. However, the effects of conditions in plant factories on metabolic nutrients remain to be explored. In this study, we used three [...] Read more.
Plant factories offer a promising solution to some of the challenges facing traditional agriculture, allowing for year-round rapid production of plant-derived foods. However, the effects of conditions in plant factories on metabolic nutrients remain to be explored. In this study, we used three rice accessions (KongYu131, HuangHuaZhan, and Kam Sweet Rice) as objectives, which were planted in a plant factory with strict photoperiods that are long-day (12 h light/12 h dark) or short-day (8 h light/16 h dark). A total of 438 metabolites were detected in the harvested rice grains. The difference in photoperiod leads to a different accumulation of metabolites in rice grains. Most metabolites accumulated significantly higher levels under the short-day condition than the long-day condition. Differentially accumulated metabolites were enriched in the amino acids and vitamin B6 pathway. Asparagine, pyridoxamine, and pyridoxine are key metabolites that accumulate at higher levels in rice grains harvested from the short-day photoperiod. This study reveals the photoperiod-dependent metabolomic differences in rice cultivated in plant factories, especially the metabolic profiling of taste- and nutrition-related compounds. Full article
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19 pages, 302 KiB  
Article
New Uses of q-Generalized Janowski Function in q-Bounded Turning Functions
by Timilehin Gideon Shaba, Ferdous M. O. Tawfiq, Daniel Breaz and Luminit̨a-Ioana Cotiîrlă
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1552; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101552 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we discussed a new subclass JQ,AB(q) of bi-univalent functions in the unit disk U using q-generalized Janowski function and q-derivative. Additionally, certain properties were examined and effectively demonstrated, such as [...] Read more.
In this paper, we discussed a new subclass JQ,AB(q) of bi-univalent functions in the unit disk U using q-generalized Janowski function and q-derivative. Additionally, certain properties were examined and effectively demonstrated, such as the second Hankel determinant, Fekete–Szegö estimates, and Coefficients Bounds. Each of these bounds were precise and were confirmed by finding the extremal function for the new class. Furthermore, there are in-depth conversations available regarding certain intriguing specific cases of the outcomes achieved. Full article
12 pages, 1564 KiB  
Article
Biogas Production Potential of Mixed Banana and Pineapple Waste as Assessed by Long-Term Laboratory-Scale Anaerobic Digestion
by Vita Aleksandrovna Rabinovich, Carsten Linnenberg, Ulf Theilen and Harald Weigand
Fermentation 2024, 10(5), 261; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation10050261 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Biogas is a renewable energy source generated through the anaerobic digestion (AD) of organic feedstocks. This study aims to quantify the biogas production potential (BPP) of fruit wastes via semi-continuous lab-scale mesophilic AD over a total of 100 days. The feed was composed [...] Read more.
Biogas is a renewable energy source generated through the anaerobic digestion (AD) of organic feedstocks. This study aims to quantify the biogas production potential (BPP) of fruit wastes via semi-continuous lab-scale mesophilic AD over a total of 100 days. The feed was composed of 80% banana peelings and 20% pineapple residues, mimicking the waste composition of a Costa Rican fruit processing facility used as a test case. The average loading rate of volatile suspended solids (VSS) corresponded to 3.6 kg VSS·m−3·d−1. Biogas yield and composition were monitored, along with the concentration of ammonium, volatile fatty acids, and pH. Discounting the start-up phase, the BPP averaged to 526 LN (kg VSS)−1 with a methane concentration of around 54%, suggesting suitability of the substrate for AD. We calculated that if upscaled to the Costa Rican test case facility, these values translate into a gross average heat and electricity production via AD of around 5100 MWhel·a−1 and 5100 MWhth·a−1, respectively. Deducting self-consumption of the AD treatment, this is equivalent to 73% of the facility’s electricity demand, and could save about 450,000 L of heavy oil per year for heat generation. To circumvent nitrogen shortage, the addition of a co-substrate such as dry manure seems advisable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anaerobic Digestion: Waste to Energy)
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15 pages, 705 KiB  
Review
Diabetes and Stroke: Impact of Novel Therapies for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
by Inês Henriques Vieira, Tânia Santos Carvalho, Joana Saraiva, Leonor Gomes and Isabel Paiva
Biomedicines 2024, 12(5), 1102; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12051102 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a significant risk factor for stroke. Nevertheless, the evidence supporting stringent glycemic control to reduce macrovascular complications, particularly stroke, is not as clear as for microvascular complications. Presently, risk reduction strategies are based on controlling multiple risk [...] Read more.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a significant risk factor for stroke. Nevertheless, the evidence supporting stringent glycemic control to reduce macrovascular complications, particularly stroke, is not as clear as for microvascular complications. Presently, risk reduction strategies are based on controlling multiple risk factors, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, glycemia, smoking, and weight. Since 2008, new pharmacological therapies for treating T2DM have been required to undergo trials to ensure their cardiovascular safety. Remarkably, several novel therapies have exhibited protective effects against the combined endpoint of major cardiovascular events. Evidence from these trials, with stroke as a secondary endpoint, along with real-world data, suggests potential benefits in stroke prevention, particularly with glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists. Conversely, the data on sodium–glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors remains more controversial. Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors appear neutral in stroke prevention. More recent pharmacological therapies still lack significant data on this particular outcome. This article provides a comprehensive review of the evidence on the most recent T2DM therapies for stroke prevention and their impact on clinical practice. Full article
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21 pages, 4292 KiB  
Article
Improving the Generalizability of Deep Learning for T2-Lesion Segmentation of Gliomas in the Post-Treatment Setting
by Jacob Ellison, Francesco Caliva, Pablo Damasceno, Tracy L. Luks, Marisa LaFontaine, Julia Cluceru, Anil Kemisetti, Yan Li, Annette M. Molinaro, Valentina Pedoia, Javier E. Villanueva-Meyer and Janine M. Lupo
Bioengineering 2024, 11(5), 497; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11050497 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Although fully automated volumetric approaches for monitoring brain tumor response have many advantages, most available deep learning models are optimized for highly curated, multi-contrast MRI from newly diagnosed gliomas, which are not representative of post-treatment cases in the clinic. Improving segmentation for treated [...] Read more.
Although fully automated volumetric approaches for monitoring brain tumor response have many advantages, most available deep learning models are optimized for highly curated, multi-contrast MRI from newly diagnosed gliomas, which are not representative of post-treatment cases in the clinic. Improving segmentation for treated patients is critical to accurately tracking changes in response to therapy. We investigated mixing data from newly diagnosed (n = 208) and treated (n = 221) gliomas in training, applying transfer learning (TL) from pre- to post-treatment imaging domains, and incorporating spatial regularization for T2-lesion segmentation using only T2 FLAIR images as input to improve generalization post-treatment. These approaches were evaluated on 24 patients suspected of progression who had received prior treatment. Including 26% of treated patients in training improved performance by 13.9%, and including more treated and untreated patients resulted in minimal changes. Fine-tuning with treated glioma improved sensitivity compared to data mixing by 2.5% (p < 0.05), and spatial regularization further improved performance when used with TL by 95th HD, Dice, and sensitivity (6.8%, 0.8%, 2.2%; p < 0.05). While training with ≥60 treated patients yielded the majority of performance gain, TL and spatial regularization further improved T2-lesion segmentation to treated gliomas using a single MR contrast and minimal processing, demonstrating clinical utility in response assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Auto-Diagnosis and Clinical Applications)
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17 pages, 2767 KiB  
Article
Hepatic-Metabolic Activity of α-Lipoic Acid—Its Influence on Sphingolipid Metabolism and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathway in a Rat Model of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
by Klaudia Sztolsztener and Adrian Chabowski
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1501; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101501 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Excessive lipid deposition affects hepatic homeostasis and contributes to the development of insulin resistance as a crucial factor for the deterioration of simple steatosis to steatohepatitis. So, it is essential to search for an effective agent for a new therapy for hepatic steatosis [...] Read more.
Excessive lipid deposition affects hepatic homeostasis and contributes to the development of insulin resistance as a crucial factor for the deterioration of simple steatosis to steatohepatitis. So, it is essential to search for an effective agent for a new therapy for hepatic steatosis development before it progresses to the more advanced stages. Our study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effect of α-lipoic acid (α-LA) administration on the intrahepatic metabolism of sphingolipid and insulin signaling transduction in rats with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The experiment was conducted on male Wistar rats subjected to a standard diet or a high-fat diet (HFD) and an intragastrically α-LA administration for eight weeks. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine sphingolipid content. Immunoblotting was used to measure the expression of selected proteins from sphingolipid and insulin signaling pathways. Multiplex assay kit was used to assess the level of the phosphorylated form of proteins from PI3K/Akt/mTOR transduction. The results revealed that α-LA decreased sphinganine, dihydroceramide, and sphingosine levels and increased ceramide level. We also observed an increased the concentration of phosphorylated forms of sphingosine and sphinganine. Changes in the expression of proteins from sphingolipid metabolism were consistent with changes in sphingolipid pools. Treatment with α-LA activated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, which enhanced the hepatic phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR. Based on these data, we concluded that α-lipoic acid may alleviate glucose intolerance and may have a protective influence on the sphingolipid metabolism under HFD; thus, this antioxidant appears to protect from MASLD development and steatosis deterioration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Strategies in Metabolic Disorders)
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9 pages, 526 KiB  
Article
Prognostic Factors in Necrotizing Fasciitis: Insights from a Two-Decade, Two-Center Study Involving 209 Cases
by Ioannis-Fivos Megas, Sarina Delavari, Alejandro Marti Edo, Götz Habild, Moritz Billner, Bert Reichert and David Breidung
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2024, 16(3), 472-480; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr16030035 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a critical disease with high morbidity and mortality rates that poses significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Prognostic factors for the clinical course of NF remain unclear and are currently under research. This study aims to identify such [...] Read more.
Introduction: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a critical disease with high morbidity and mortality rates that poses significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Prognostic factors for the clinical course of NF remain unclear and are currently under research. This study aims to identify such factors in a large cohort of patients which represents a major comprehensive investigation of prognostic factors for NF. Methods: Retrospective analysis was conducted on necrotizing fasciitis cases from 2003 to 2023 at two German hospitals. Data included demographics, comorbidities, laboratory findings, infection site, causative microorganisms and outcomes. Statistical analysis involved t-tests, chi-square tests, and ROC analysis. Results: A total of 209 patients were included, with a mortality rate of 18%. Patients were categorized into survivors (n = 171) and non-survivors (n = 38). Non-survivors were significantly older (68.9 ± 13.9 years vs. 55.9 ± 14.3 years; p < 0.01) and exhibited a higher prevalence of peripheral vascular diseases, cancer, and heart, liver, or renal insufficiency. Laboratory findings and scoring results also varied significantly between the two groups. The ROC curve analysis identified age as a predictor of mortality, with an optimal cut-off value of 68.5 years (sensitivity: 60.5%, specificity: 81.9%). Higher age was associated with increased mortality risk. Conclusions: The patient’s age stands out as the primary predictive element for mortality in necrotizing fasciitis. Additionally, we advocate for employing the Laboratory and Anamnestic Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LARINF—score), which holds substantial prognostic significance and is straightforward to calculate. Considering our findings, crafting a clinical algorithm or scoring mechanism to forecast mortality in NF would be a promising target for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infection Prevention and Control)
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28 pages, 7944 KiB  
Article
Systemic Risk and Bank Networks: A Use of Knowledge Graph with ChatGPT
by Ren-Yuan Lyu, Ren-Raw Chen, San-Lin Chung and Yilu Zhou
FinTech 2024, 3(2), 274-301; https://doi.org/10.3390/fintech3020016 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we study the networks of financial institutions using textual data (i.e., news). We draw knowledge graphs after the textual data has been processed via various natural language processing and embedding methods, including use of the most recent version of ChatGPT [...] Read more.
In this paper, we study the networks of financial institutions using textual data (i.e., news). We draw knowledge graphs after the textual data has been processed via various natural language processing and embedding methods, including use of the most recent version of ChatGPT (via OpenAI api). Our final graphs represent bank networks and further shed light on the systemic risk of the financial institutions. Financial news reflects live how financial institutions are connected, via graphs which provide information on conditional dependencies among the financial institutions. Our results show that in the year 2016, the chosen 22 top U.S. financial firms are not closely connected and, hence, present no systemic risk. Full article
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8 pages, 226 KiB  
Opinion
Teaching Medical Procedural Skills for Performance
by Kersi Taraporewalla, Paul Barach and André van Zundert
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(3), 862-869; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14030067 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Procedures are a core element of medical professional practice. Today’s training approach was formulated in the mid-twentieth century based on a computer analogue of the brain. Despite minor modifications, the system has remained relatively unchanged for the past 70 years. It delivers competence. [...] Read more.
Procedures are a core element of medical professional practice. Today’s training approach was formulated in the mid-twentieth century based on a computer analogue of the brain. Despite minor modifications, the system has remained relatively unchanged for the past 70 years. It delivers competence. However, competence is not reliable performance. The inability to adapt to the variety of patients and variations in the performance environments, such as the operating room, results in patient morbidity and mortality. There is a need for changes in the development and training of medical procedural skills based on current theories of skill acquisition, movement theory, and motor control. Achieving optimal performance necessitates the ability to adapt through training in diverse patient and performance environments rather than merely imitating prescribed movements. We propose a novel model of training, the Constraints-Led Approach, which allows for robust training by altering the factors affecting skill acquisition and lifelong learning. Full article
14 pages, 1195 KiB  
Article
Acute Kidney Injury in the Context of COVID-19: An Analysis in Hospitalized Mexican Patients
by Juan Carlos Borrego-Moreno, María Julieta Cárdenas-de Luna, José Carlos Márquez-Castillo, José Manuel Reyes-Ruiz, Juan Fidel Osuna-Ramos, Moisés León-Juárez, Rosa María del Ángel, Adrián Rodríguez-Carlos, Bruno Rivas-Santiago, Carlos Noe Farfan-Morales, Ana Cristina García-Herrera and Luis Adrián De Jesús-González
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2024, 16(3), 458-471; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr16030034 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a considerable proportion of patients developed a severe condition that included respiratory failure, shock, or multiple organ dysfunction. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) has been recognized as a possible cause of severe COVID-19 development. Given this, this study investigates the [...] Read more.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a considerable proportion of patients developed a severe condition that included respiratory failure, shock, or multiple organ dysfunction. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) has been recognized as a possible cause of severe COVID-19 development. Given this, this study investigates the occurrence and consequences of AKI in Mexican patients to contribute to better knowledge and management of this problem. Methods: Using a retrospective observational cohort methodology, we investigated 313 cases from a cohort of 1019 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 at the IMSS Zacatecas General Hospital of Zone No. 1 in 2020. The prevalence of AKI was determined using the AKIN criteria based on serum creatinine levels and a detailed review of demographic characteristics, medical history, comorbidities, and clinical development. Results: The data showed a 25.30% prevalence of AKI among patients infected with severe COVID-19. Remarkably, these patients with AKI exhibited an advanced age (>65 years), arterial hypertension, a higher number of white blood cells during admission and the hospital stay, and elevated levels of C-reactive protein, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Clinically, patients with AKI had signs of prostration, pneumonia, and the requirement for ventilatory assistance when compared to those without AKI. Finally, those diagnosed with AKI and COVID-19 had a 74% death rate. Relative risk analyses indicated that age (>65 years), arterial hypertension, high creatinine levels, endotracheal intubation, and pneumonia are associated with the development of AKI. On the other hand, among the protective factors against AKI, high hemoglobin levels and the consumption of statins during COVID-19 were found. Conclusions: The findings of this study underscore the significance of promptly identifying and effectively managing AKI to potentially alleviate the negative consequences of this complication within the Mexican population during COVID-19. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infection Prevention and Control)
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13 pages, 561 KiB  
Review
Body Condition in Small Ruminants—Effects of Nutrition on the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonad Axis and Ovarian Activity That Controls Reproduction
by Ana Sofia Chaves, Filipe Silva, Ramiro Valentim and Hélder Quintas
Physiologia 2024, 4(2), 213-225; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia4020012 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Nutritional status plays a vital role in regulating ovary activity. This regulation is mediated by the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonad axis and by effects exerted directly on the ovary. Therefore, to achieve the best reproductive performance, it is essential to know how the nutritional status affects [...] Read more.
Nutritional status plays a vital role in regulating ovary activity. This regulation is mediated by the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonad axis and by effects exerted directly on the ovary. Therefore, to achieve the best reproductive performance, it is essential to know how the nutritional status affects the secretion of GnRH, gonadotrophins, and sex steroid hormones. Adequate body reserves and energy balance are critical for optimal reproductive performance in sheep and goats. However, over- or under-conditioned animals experience issues like extended anestrus, irregular ovarian cycles, and reduced conception. Body condition scoring allows for the evaluation of the relationships between adiposity, nutritional status, and fertility. Acute feed deficits briefly stimulate processes, but chronic restrictions suppress pulsatile LH release, disrupting ovarian function. The process of follicle development is a very complex one which involves intricate interactions between the pituitary gonadotrophins and metabolic hormones as well as between the locally produced factors by the ovarian somatic and germ cells including the IGF system and the TGF-β superfamily members. Genotype and nutrition are factors that have an impact on follicular development, and seasonal factors are also involved. This review will give a brief overview on how the body condition can be evaluated and the effects of nutrition on the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonad axis and ovarian activity, which are responsible for reproductive regulation. This paper presents a clear and reasonable summary of the pathway that runs from the nutritional status of small ruminants to ovarian activity through the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. This review summarizes methods for body condition evaluation in small ruminants and evidence regarding acute versus prolonged nutritional impacts on the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis and ovarian activity controlling reproduction. Full article
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13 pages, 1183 KiB  
Review
Recurrences after Pulsed Field Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: Incidence, Mechanisms, Predictors, and Comparison with Thermal Energy
by Riccardo Vio, Enrico Forlin and Paolo China
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 817; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050817 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) is the latest and most intriguing technology for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation, due to its capability to generate irreversible and cardiomyocytes-selective electroporation of cell membranes by delivering microsecond-lasting high-voltage electrical fields, leading to high expectations. The first trials [...] Read more.
Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) is the latest and most intriguing technology for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation, due to its capability to generate irreversible and cardiomyocytes-selective electroporation of cell membranes by delivering microsecond-lasting high-voltage electrical fields, leading to high expectations. The first trials to assess the clinical success of PFA, reported an arrhythmia-free survival at 1-year of 78.5%, while other trials showed less enthusiastic results: 66.2% in paroxysmal and 55.1% in persistent AF. Nevertheless, real world data are encouraging. The isolation of pulmonary veins with PFA is easily achieved with 100% acute success. Systematic invasive remapping showed a high prevalence of durable pulmonary vein isolation at 75 and 90 days (range 84–96%), which were significatively lower in redo procedures (64.3%). The advent of PFA is prompting a reconsideration of the role of the autonomic nervous system in AF ablation, as PFA-related sparing of the ganglionated plexi could lead to the still undetermined effect on late arrhythmias’ recurrences. Moreover, a new concept of a blanking period could be formulated with PFA, according to its different mechanism of myocardial injury, with less inflammation and less chronic fibrosis. Finally, in this review, we also compare PFA with thermal energy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
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11 pages, 1180 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Neuromuscular Morphometry of the Vaginal Wall Using Protein Gene Product 9.5 (Pgp 9.5) and Smooth Muscle α-Actin (Sma) in Patients with Posterior Vaginal Wall Prolapse
by Mustafa Çetin, Güven Güney, Özer Birge, Emine Arslan, Burcu Timur and Hakan Timur
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 816; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050816 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study aims to compare the neuromuscular structure of the vagina in women with posterior vaginal wall prolapse with the neuromuscular structure of the vagina in women without prolapse, to determine the difference, and to demonstrate the role of [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: This study aims to compare the neuromuscular structure of the vagina in women with posterior vaginal wall prolapse with the neuromuscular structure of the vagina in women without prolapse, to determine the difference, and to demonstrate the role of neuromuscular structure in the physiopathology of prolapse. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, women aged between 40 and 75 years who had not undergone any vaginal surgery and had not undergone any abdominal prolapse surgery were included. Thirty-one women diagnosed with rectocele on examination were included in the study group. Thirty-one patients who underwent vaginal intervention and hysterectomy for reasons other than rectocele (colposcopy, conization, etc.) without anterior or posterior wall prolapse were included in the control group. Biopsy material was obtained from the epithelium of the posterior wall of the vagina, including the fascia that fits the Ap point. Immunohistochemical staining with Protein Gene Product 9.5 and smooth muscle α-actin was performed in the pathology laboratory. The epithelial thickness measurement and smooth muscle density parameters obtained with these immunohistochemical stainings were compared between the two groups. The collected data were analyzed using the SPSS 23 package program. p values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: In the control group, muscle thickness and the number of nerves per mm2 of fascia were statistically significantly higher than in the study group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: We found that smooth muscle tissue and the number of nerves per mm2 of fascia were decreased in posterior vaginal wall prolapse compared to the general population. Based on the correlation coefficients, age was the parameter that most affected the degree of prolapse, followed by parity, number of live births, and number of vaginal deliveries. Full article
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14 pages, 365 KiB  
Review
Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis—Associated Genes, Cytokines, and Human Leukocyte Antigens
by Marek Zalesak, Lubos Danisovic and Stefan Harsanyi
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 815; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050815 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
In recent years, research has intensified in exploring the genetic basis of psoriasis (PsO) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Genome-wide association studies (GWASs), including tools like ImmunoChip, have significantly deepened our understanding of disease mechanisms by pinpointing risk-associated genetic loci. These efforts have elucidated [...] Read more.
In recent years, research has intensified in exploring the genetic basis of psoriasis (PsO) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Genome-wide association studies (GWASs), including tools like ImmunoChip, have significantly deepened our understanding of disease mechanisms by pinpointing risk-associated genetic loci. These efforts have elucidated biological pathways involved in PsO pathogenesis, particularly those related to the innate immune system, antigen presentation, and adaptive immune responses. Specific genetic loci, such as TRAF3IP2, REL, and FBXL19, have been identified as having a significant impact on disease development. Interestingly, different genetic variants at the same locus can predispose individuals to either PsO or PsA (e.g., IL23R and deletion of LCE3B and LCE3C), with some variants being uniquely linked to PsA (like HLA B27 on chromosome 6). This article aims to summarize known and new data on the genetics of PsO and PsA, their associated genes, and the involvement of the HLA system and cytokines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Novel Biomarkers of Musculoskeletal Diseases)
14 pages, 2136 KiB  
Article
Detection of Salmonella Pathogenicity Islands and Antimicrobial-Resistant Genes in Salmonella enterica Serovars Enteritidis and Typhimurium Isolated from Broiler Chickens
by Tsepo Ramatla, Ntelekwane G. Khasapane, Lungile N. Mlangeni, Prudent Mokgokong, Taole Ramaili, Rendani Ndou, Jane S. Nkhebenyane, Kgaugelo Lekota and Oriel Thekisoe
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050458 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Rapid growth in commercial poultry production is one of the major sources of Salmonella infections that leads to human salmonellosis. The two main Salmonella enterica serovars associated with human salmonellosis are enteritidis and typhimurium. The aim of this study was to determine the [...] Read more.
Rapid growth in commercial poultry production is one of the major sources of Salmonella infections that leads to human salmonellosis. The two main Salmonella enterica serovars associated with human salmonellosis are enteritidis and typhimurium. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of S. enterica serovars Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium as well as their Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPI) and antibiotic resistance profiles in broiler chicken feces from slaughterhouses. A total of 480 fecal samples from broiler chickens that were grouped into 96 pooled samples were identified to have Salmonella spp. using the invA gene, whilst the Spy and sdfI genes were used to screen for the presence of S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium serovars, respectively, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. The isolates were also screened for the presence of Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPIs) using PCR. The disc diffusion assay was performed to determine the antibiotic resistance profiles of the isolates. A total of 36 isolates were confirmed as Salmonella spp. through amplification of the invA gene. Out of 36 confirmed Salmonella spp. a total of 22 isolates were classified as S. Enteritidis (n = 8) and were S. Typhimurium (n = 14) serovars. All (n = 22) S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium isolates possessed the hilA (SPI-1), ssrB (SPI-2) and pagC (SPI-11) pathogenicity islands genes. Amongst these serovars, 50% of the isolates (n = 11/22) were resistant to tetracycline and nalidixic acid. Only 22% of the isolates, S. Typhimurium (13.6%) and S. Enteritidis (9.1%) demonstrated resistance against three or more antibiotic classes. The most detected antibiotic resistance genes were tet(K), mcr-1, sulI and strA with 13 (59.1%), 9 (40.9%), 9 (40.9%) and 7 (31.8%), respectively. The findings of this study revealed that S. Typhimurium is the most prevalent serotype detected in chicken feces. To reduce the risk to human health posed by salmonellosis, a stringent public health and food safety policy is required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance and Infections in Veterinary Settings)
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15 pages, 7585 KiB  
Article
Tea Quality of the Mysterious “Dahongpao Mother Tree” (Camellia sinensis)
by Jianghua Ye, Qi Zhang, Mingzhe Li, Yuhua Wang, Miao Jia, Lei Hong, Yiling Chen, Xiaomin Pang, Xiaoli Jia and Haibin Wang
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1548; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101548 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The quality of the Dahongpao mother tree (Camellia sinensis) remains a mystery to this day. In this study, for the first time, the differences between the Dahongpao mother tree (MD) and Dahongpao cuttings (PD), in terms of odor characteristics and taste [...] Read more.
The quality of the Dahongpao mother tree (Camellia sinensis) remains a mystery to this day. In this study, for the first time, the differences between the Dahongpao mother tree (MD) and Dahongpao cuttings (PD), in terms of odor characteristics and taste characteristics were analyzed by metabomics. The results showed that MD had stronger floral, fruity, green, and woody odor characteristics than PD, and that the contributions were mainly from dihydromyrcenol, methyl salicylate, 2-isobutylpyrazine, 1,6-dihydrocarveol, gamma-terpineol, and linalyl acetate. Further, fresh and brisk taste and mellowness taste characteristics of MD were significantly higher than PD, with contributions mainly from amino acids and derivatives and organic acids. Secondly, bitterness taste characteristics of PD were significantly higher than MD, with contributions from phenolic acids, flavones, and flavonols. This study preliminarily unraveled the legend of the superior quality of the Dahongpao mother tree, and also provided an important reference for the breeding of tea-tree cuttings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Study on Aroma Components and Bioactive Compounds of Tea)
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21 pages, 13733 KiB  
Article
Monsoons and Tide-Induced Eddies Deflect the Dispersion of the Thermal Plume in Nan Wan Bay
by Hung-Jen Lee, Shih-Jen Huang, Pei-Jie Meng, Chung-Chi Chen, Chia-Ying Ho and Yi-Chen Tsai
Water 2024, 16(10), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101420 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The present work employs a three-dimensional ocean model (MITgcm) driven by tidal and climatological forcings to assess the range of impacts of thermal wastewater discharge from the Third Nuclear Power Plant (NP_No.3) in Nan Wan Bay on the local ecosystem. Tides and daily [...] Read more.
The present work employs a three-dimensional ocean model (MITgcm) driven by tidal and climatological forcings to assess the range of impacts of thermal wastewater discharge from the Third Nuclear Power Plant (NP_No.3) in Nan Wan Bay on the local ecosystem. Tides and daily wind forcings are incorporated into the MITgcm to examine their effects on thermal plume dispersion and water circulation in Nan Wan Bay. The model results reveal that the thermal plume is most likely to disperse to the southwest in the summer; it is unlikely to drift to the southeast or northeast because of the presence of the gentle southwesterly monsoon. In the winter, the thermal plume is most likely to be directed to the southwest and is unlikely to be directed to the northeast or southeast because of the prevailing northeasterly monsoon. Additionally, it is worth emphasizing that strong tidal currents generate a pair of counter-rotating eddies that significantly influence the dispersion of the thermal plume. However, seasonal monsoons also play an essential role in modifying the thermal plume’s direction and dispersion. Full article
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8 pages, 4001 KiB  
Case Report
A Bosniak III Cyst Unmasking Tubulocystic Renal Cell Carcinoma in an Adolescent: Management with Selective Arterial Clamping and Robotic Enucleation
by Marcello Della Corte, Elisa Cerchia, Marco Allasia, Alessandro Marquis, Alessandra Linari, Martina Mandaletti, Elena Ruggiero, Andrea Sterrantino, Paola Quarello, Massimo Catti, Franca Fagioli, Paolo Gontero and Simona Gerocarni Nappo
Surgeries 2024, 5(2), 415-422; https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries5020034 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The Bosniak classification of renal cysts aims to provide a probabilistic risk assessment indicating the likelihood of malignancy from imaging findings. Originally designed to classify adult renal cysts based on computed tomography findings, the Bosniak classification has been extended to pediatric patients, with [...] Read more.
The Bosniak classification of renal cysts aims to provide a probabilistic risk assessment indicating the likelihood of malignancy from imaging findings. Originally designed to classify adult renal cysts based on computed tomography findings, the Bosniak classification has been extended to pediatric patients, with some adjustments made with the aim of accommodating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography (US). Bosniak IV lesions are rare in adolescents, indicating localized renal cell carcinoma and requiring surgical intervention. In contrast, Bosniak III lesions can be treated conservatively, although there is a lack of specific guidelines on their management. We present a case of a 14-year-old boy with a Bosniak III lesion, which was incidentally detected during the US evaluation of a left varicocele. After a 12-month follow-up, MRI revealed progression to a Bosniak IV cyst. Robot-assisted tumor enucleation was performed with selective artery clamping when the patient was 15. Histopathology showed tubulocystic renal cell carcinoma without adverse features. Immunocytochemistry supported a favorable prognosis of this rare tumor (<1% of renal tumor), thus obviating the need for adjuvant treatment. At the 18-month follow-up, no recurrence or distant metastasis were observed. This case highlights the importance of an aggressive treatment in persistent Bosniak III and Bosniak IV renal cysts in children and adolescents and the necessity to offer a nephron-sparing surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3D Printing in Surgical Strategies)
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10 pages, 265 KiB  
Article
Existence Results Related to a Singular Fractional Double-Phase Problem in the Whole Space
by Ramzi Alsaedi
Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(5), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8050292 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we will study a singular problem involving the fractional (q1(x,.)-q2(x,.))-Laplacian operator in the whole space RN,(N2) [...] Read more.
In this paper, we will study a singular problem involving the fractional (q1(x,.)-q2(x,.))-Laplacian operator in the whole space RN,(N2). More precisely, we combine the variational method with monotonicity arguments to prove that the associated functional energy admits a critical point, which is a weak solution for such a problem. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fractional Calculus and Nonlinear Analysis: Theory and Applications)
10 pages, 1999 KiB  
Communication
Properties of Composites Based on Polylactide Filled with Cork Filler
by Mariusz Fabijański
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(5), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8050185 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Introducing fillers into polymeric materials is one of the methods of modifying the properties or reducing the costs of polymeric materials. Thanks to their use, it is possible to obtain new materials with interesting mechanical and chemical properties. Some features are often improved [...] Read more.
Introducing fillers into polymeric materials is one of the methods of modifying the properties or reducing the costs of polymeric materials. Thanks to their use, it is possible to obtain new materials with interesting mechanical and chemical properties. Some features are often improved among the new materials obtained, while others deteriorate. In this work, an attempt was made to obtain a polymer composite based on PLA filled with cork flour in amounts of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 30% by weight. The processing and sample preparation process using injection molding technology was assessed and the basic mechanical properties were assessed. The research shows that it is possible to obtain PLA products with a cork filler without the mixing process on an extruder, but only by using an injection molding machine and appropriately selecting the parameters of the technological process. Tests of mechanical properties showed deterioration of parameters, but not to such an extent that the obtained composites were disqualified from use in products that are not subject to heavy mechanical loads. The undoubted advantage of the obtained materials is maintaining their so-called “green” character and thus the ability to biodegrade. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites, Volume III)
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11 pages, 1578 KiB  
Article
Improving the Current European Pharmacopoeia Enantio-Selective HPLC Method for the Determination of Enantiomeric Purity in Atorvastatin Calcium Salt Drug Substance
by Francesca Romana Mammone, Daniele Sadutto, Giulia D’Ettorre, Antonina Mosca and Roberto Cirilli
Separations 2024, 11(5), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11050154 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Atorvastatin (ATV) is a well-established lipid-lowering agent. ATV has two stereogenic centers, and of the four possible stereoisomers, only the (3R,5R) form is used therapeutically. The European Pharmacopoeia (EP) monograph 2022 for ATV calcium salt describes a normal-phase high-performance [...] Read more.
Atorvastatin (ATV) is a well-established lipid-lowering agent. ATV has two stereogenic centers, and of the four possible stereoisomers, only the (3R,5R) form is used therapeutically. The European Pharmacopoeia (EP) monograph 2022 for ATV calcium salt describes a normal-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the determination of enantiomeric purity in both drug substance and working standard samples, based on a 150 mm × 4.6 mm Chiralpak AD-H column. The main problems with this method are the very long analysis time and the high solvent consumption. Here, an alternative chromatographic protocol was developed using the Chiralpak AD-3 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm) packed with 3 μm silica particles instead of the 5 μm silica particles of the Chiralpak AD-H chiral stationary phase and characterized by the same polysaccharide selector, amylose-tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate). Using a mobile phase consisting of a mixture of n-hexane-ethanol-formic acid 90:10:0.1 (v/v/v) as the mobile phase and setting the flow rate and column temperature to 1.0 mL min−1 and 35 °C, respectively, a simultaneous stereo-selective separation was achieved within 35 min without observing any overlap between the enantiomeric impurity peak and peaks related to other ATV impurities. Compared to HPLC EP conditions, the analysis time to elute all the potentially related substances was faster and significantly less mobile phase volume was required. The linearity of the method has been demonstrated in the range of 4.4 μg mL−1 to 1000 μg mL−1 (R2 > 0.999). At a concentration of 4.4 μg mL−1, which is 0.075% of the test solution (5.8 mg mL−1, as ATV free acid), the signal-to-noise ratio was found to be 20. Full article
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11 pages, 3361 KiB  
Article
Packed-Nanofiber Solid-Phase Extraction Coupled with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Fluorescence for Determining Gut Microbiota–Host Cometabolites and Indoleamines in Human Urine
by Lanlan Wei and Xuejun Kang
Separations 2024, 11(5), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11050153 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Exercise reduces the risk of inflammatory diseases by modulating different tissue and cell types, including those within the gastrointestinal tract. Obtaining a more comprehensive understanding of pathophysiology requires monitoring of dynamic changes in cometabolites. This study aimed to develop a method for determining [...] Read more.
Exercise reduces the risk of inflammatory diseases by modulating different tissue and cell types, including those within the gastrointestinal tract. Obtaining a more comprehensive understanding of pathophysiology requires monitoring of dynamic changes in cometabolites. This study aimed to develop a method for determining gut microbiota–host cometabolites and indoleamines in human urine. Four key gut microbiota–host cometabolites were chromatographically separated by isocratic elution, with a running time of 10 min. The linearity of this method was confirmed over different concentration ranges: 1.0–400 ng/mL for melatonin (MEL), indole-3-propionic acid (3-IPA), indole (IND), and skatole (SKT). This method was extremely sensitive and stable and hence could be successfully applied to characterize the changes in gut microbiota–host cometabolites in human before- and after-running urine. The concentrations of MEL, 3-IPA, IND, and SKT in after-running urine were 84.0 ± 9.69, 25.9 ± 3.39, 343.7 ± 36.8, and 14.6 ± 1.36 ng/mL, respectively. Moreover, the concentrations in before-running urine were 54.2 ± 5.10, 14.4 ± 1.30, 250.8 ± 14.1, and 9.43 ± 1.07 ng/mL, respectively, which showed significantly less difference in concentrations (p < 0.05) in before- than after-running urine. Overall, the established method could simultaneously monitor gut microbiota–host cometabolites and hence can be further applied to clinical and comprehensive pathophysiological studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation of Membranes and Their Application in Separation)
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20 pages, 6471 KiB  
Article
Finding Priority Areas in the Evaluation of Strategies for the Prevention of Leishmaniasis in an Endemic Municipality of Brazil
by Talita Carolina Bragança de Oliveira, Anaiá da Paixão Sevá, João Alfredo Biagi Camargo Neto, Uelio de Lima Lopes and Katia Denise Saraiva Bresciani
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050115 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease that affects humans and dogs. The infection is endemic in the municipality of Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil. Given the role of dogs in the epidemiology of leishmaniasis, strategies to enhance surveillance and reduce transmission are focused on [...] Read more.
Visceral leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease that affects humans and dogs. The infection is endemic in the municipality of Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil. Given the role of dogs in the epidemiology of leishmaniasis, strategies to enhance surveillance and reduce transmission are focused on dogs. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed records of canine visceral leishmaniasis from 2013 to 2022. According to this database, the prevalence of dogs testing positive for leishmaniasis fluctuated, with an average of 65.04% (6590/10,133). Cases were clustered in 10 statistically significant areas. Environmental analyses identified a significant geographical association between animals testing positive and higher vegetation density rates compared with animals testing negative. The period from sample collection to diagnosis and euthanasia, as recommended by the Brazilian Ministry, correlated with disease prevalence and decreased over time. These findings serve to implement different action plans against leishmaniasis for each geographic region and to understand the impact and efforts of strategies in an endemic area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Visceral Leishmaniasis Research)
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