The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
17 pages, 3028 KiB  
Article
Structure-Based De Novo Design for the Discovery of Miniprotein Inhibitors Targeting Oncogenic Mutant BRAF
by Jae Min Ham, Myeongbin Kim, Taeho Kim, Seong Eon Ryu and Hwangseo Park
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105535 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Being a component of the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway crucial for cellular responses, the VRAF murine sarcoma viral oncogene homologue B1 (BRAF) kinase has emerged as a promising target for anticancer drug discovery due to oncogenic mutations that lead to pathway hyperactivation. Despite the [...] Read more.
Being a component of the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway crucial for cellular responses, the VRAF murine sarcoma viral oncogene homologue B1 (BRAF) kinase has emerged as a promising target for anticancer drug discovery due to oncogenic mutations that lead to pathway hyperactivation. Despite the discovery of several small-molecule BRAF kinase inhibitors targeting oncogenic mutants, their clinical utility has been limited by challenges such as off-target effects and suboptimal pharmacological properties. This study focuses on identifying miniprotein inhibitors for the oncogenic V600E mutant BRAF, leveraging their potential as versatile drug candidates. Using a structure-based de novo design approach based on binding affinity to V600E mutant BRAF and hydration energy, 39 candidate miniprotein inhibitors comprising three helices and 69 amino acids were generated from the substructure of the endogenous ligand protein (14-3-3). Through in vitro binding and kinase inhibition assays, two miniproteins (63 and 76) were discovered as novel inhibitors of V600E mutant BRAF with low-micromolar activity, with miniprotein 76 demonstrating a specific impediment to MEK1 phosphorylation in mammalian cells. These findings highlight miniprotein 76 as a potential lead compound for developing new cancer therapeutics, and the structural features contributing to its biochemical potency against V600E mutant BRAF are discussed in detail. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein Kinase in Disease)
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24 pages, 2813 KiB  
Article
Developing an Efficient Model for Online Grocery Order Fulfillment
by Moaad Abdulaziz Alrasheed, Ateekh Ur Rehman and Ibrahim M. Al-harkan
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4270; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104270 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Due to the convenience of online grocery apps and home delivery, online grocery shopping has become popular in recent years. Globally, consumer behavior has significantly changed the consumption and purchase patterns of online grocery shopping. This study aimed to develop an efficient model [...] Read more.
Due to the convenience of online grocery apps and home delivery, online grocery shopping has become popular in recent years. Globally, consumer behavior has significantly changed the consumption and purchase patterns of online grocery shopping. This study aimed to develop an efficient model for online grocery order fulfillment that both reduces costs and increases supply chain efficiency and sustainability. This study first aimed to develop the current picking model by adopting real-world data from a store in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Subsequently, four proposed models were developed to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the online grocery order fulfillment process. The results show a significant improvement in all models over the current picking model. The percentage improvements in fulfillment time per product are as follows: single order picking—8.33%; batch order picking—6.78%; zone order picking—3.08%; and hybrid order picking—13.20%, which combines zone and batch order picking. Retailers and online grocery apps could adopt these models to increase efficiency and sustainability. Also, these models have great potential for future research and improvement by optimizing product placement, in addition to picking methods and picking routes, which are the focus of this study. Full article
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13 pages, 221 KiB  
Concept Paper
Controlling Reproduction and Disrupting Family Formation: California Women’s Prisons and the Violent Legacy of Eugenics
by Vrindavani Avila and Jennifer Elyse James
Societies 2024, 14(5), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14050073 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Prisons in the United States serve as a site and embodiment of gendered and racialized state violence. The US incarcerates more people than any other nation in both numbers and per capita rates. Individuals incarcerated in women’s prisons are 10% of the total [...] Read more.
Prisons in the United States serve as a site and embodiment of gendered and racialized state violence. The US incarcerates more people than any other nation in both numbers and per capita rates. Individuals incarcerated in women’s prisons are 10% of the total prison population, yet women’s prisons remain understudied, and the violence that occurs in women’s facilities is rampant, widespread, and operates in particular racialized and gendered ways. This paper centers the forced sterilizations that occurred in California state prisons over the last two decades. We consider how reproduction and the nuclear family have served as a primary site of racial capitalism and eugenic ideology. While eugenic policies were popularized and promoted across the US and globally in the 20th century, the violent ideas underlying eugenic ideology have been a constant presence throughout US history. The height of the eugenics era is marked by the forcible sterilization of institutionalized ‘deviant’ bodies. While discussions of eugenics often center these programs, the reach of eugenic policies extends far beyond surgical interventions. We utilize a reproductive justice lens to argue that the hierarchical, racialized social stratification necessary for the existence of prisons constructs and sustains the ‘deviant’ bodies and families that predicate eugenic logic, policies, and practices. In this conceptual paper, we draw from ongoing research to argue that prisons, as institutions and as a product of racial capitalism, perpetuate the ongoing violent legacy of eugenics and name abolition as a central component of the fight to end reproductive oppression. Full article
20 pages, 4471 KiB  
Article
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Celtuce (Lactuca sativa var. augustana) Leaves Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES): Process Optimization and Extraction Mechanism Research
by Shanshan Li, Guangyu Wang, Junjie Zhao, Penghui Ou, Qingping Yao and Wei Wang
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2385; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102385 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs), as emerging green solvents, can efficiently extract natural products from natural resources. However, studies on the extraction of phenolic compounds from celtuce (Lactuca sativa var. augustana) leaves (CLs) by NADESs are still lacking. This study screened [...] Read more.
Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs), as emerging green solvents, can efficiently extract natural products from natural resources. However, studies on the extraction of phenolic compounds from celtuce (Lactuca sativa var. augustana) leaves (CLs) by NADESs are still lacking. This study screened the NADES L-proline-lactic acid (Pr-LA), combined it with ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) to extract phenolic compounds from CLs, and conducted a comparative study on the extraction effect with traditional extraction solvents. Both SEM and FT-IR confirmed that Pr-LA can enhance the degree of fragmentation of cell structures and improve the extraction rate of phenolic compounds. Molecular dynamics simulation results show that Pr-LA can improve the solubility of phenolic compounds and has stronger hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions with phenolic compounds. Single-factor and Box–Behnken experiments optimized the process parameters for the extraction of phenolic compounds from CLs. The second-order kinetic model describes the extraction process of phenolic compounds from CLs under optimal process parameters and provides theoretical guidance for actual industrial production. This study not only provides an efficient and green method for extracting phenolic compounds from CLs but also clarifies the mechanism of improved extraction efficiency, which provides a basis for research on the NADES extraction mechanism. Full article
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8 pages, 595 KiB  
Article
Whooping Cough Cases Increase in Central Italy after COVID-19 Pandemic
by Giulia Linardos, Luana Coltella, Stefania Ranno, Velia Chiara Di Maio, Luna Colagrossi, Elisabetta Pandolfi, Maria Beatrice Chiarini Testa, Leonardo Genuini, Francesca Stoppa, Matteo Di Nardo, Annalisa Grandin, Renato Cutrera, Corrado Cecchetti, Alberto Villani, Massimiliano Raponi, Paola Bernaschi, Cristina Russo, Carlo Federico Perno and Rossana Scutari
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050464 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Pertussis continues to be a highly contagious respiratory infection, especially in children, with cyclical peaks of disease spread every three to five years. Here, we report relevant cases of B. pertussis infection between August 2023 and January 2024, and compare them with B. [...] Read more.
Pertussis continues to be a highly contagious respiratory infection, especially in children, with cyclical peaks of disease spread every three to five years. Here, we report relevant cases of B. pertussis infection between August 2023 and January 2024, and compare them with B. pertussis prevalence in pediatric patients admitted to the Reference Italian Pediatric Hospital, located in Rome, from January 2015 to July 2023. A total of 5464 tests for B. pertussis were performed during the study period, and 6.9% were positive. At the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a sharp decrease in the presence of B. pertussis, which reappeared only in August 2023, recording five new cases. All five children presented with paroxysmal cough 5 to 10 days before admission. Four patients had other mild respiratory symptoms and moderate B. pertussis DNA levels (Ct mean: 26). Only one child, with very high B. pertussis DNA levels (Ct: 9), presented with severe respiratory failure. The patients with mild/moderate infection achieved clinical recovery while the patient with the severe manifestation died of cardiac arrest. These observations highlight the reemergence of pertussis even in vaccinated countries and its association with morbidity and mortality especially in young children. This emphasizes the importance of rapid diagnosis to immediately implement appropriate treatment and monitoring of immune status. Full article
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15 pages, 8550 KiB  
Article
Effects of 17β-Estradiol Pollution on Microbial Communities and Methane Emissions in Aerobic Water Bodies
by Zihao Gao, Yu Zheng, Zhendong Li and Aidong Ruan
Toxics 2024, 12(5), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12050373 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
17β-Estradiol (E2) is a widely present trace pollutant in aquatic environments. However, its impact on microbial communities in aerobic lake waters, which are crucial for methane (CH4) production, remains unclear. This study conducted an E2 contamination experiment by constructing laboratory-simulated aerobic [...] Read more.
17β-Estradiol (E2) is a widely present trace pollutant in aquatic environments. However, its impact on microbial communities in aerobic lake waters, which are crucial for methane (CH4) production, remains unclear. This study conducted an E2 contamination experiment by constructing laboratory-simulated aerobic microecosystems. Using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing, the effects of E2 on bacterial and archaeal communities were systematically examined. Combined with gas chromatography, the patterns and mechanisms of E2’s impact on CH4 emissions in aerobic aquatic systems were uncovered for the first time. Generally, E2 contamination increased the randomness of bacterial and archaeal community assemblies and weakened microbial interactions. Furthermore, changes occurred in the composition and ecological functions of bacterial and archaeal communities under E2 pollution. Specifically, two days after exposure to E2, the relative abundance of Proteobacteria in the low-concentration (L) and high-concentration (H) groups decreased by 6.99% and 4.01%, respectively, compared to the control group (C). Conversely, the relative abundance of Planctomycetota was 1.81% and 1.60% higher in the L and H groups, respectively. E2 contamination led to an increase in the relative abundance of the methanogenesis functional group and a decrease in that of the methanotrophy functional group. These changes led to an increase in CH4 emissions. This study comprehensively investigated the ecotoxicological effects of E2 pollution on microbial communities in aerobic water bodies and filled the knowledge gap regarding aerobic methane production under E2 contamination. Full article
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17 pages, 1844 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Consumption of Purified Water Altered Amino Acid, Fatty Acid and Energy Metabolism in Livers of Rats
by Jia Wang, Zhiqun Qiu, Hui Zeng, Yao Tan, Yujing Huang, Jiaohua Luo and Weiqun Shu
Metabolites 2024, 14(5), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo14050289 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
The consumption of low-mineral water has been increasing worldwide. Drinking low-mineral water is associated with cardiovascular disease, osteopenia, and certain neurodegenerative diseases. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. The liver metabolic alterations in rats induced by drinking purified water for 3 months were [...] Read more.
The consumption of low-mineral water has been increasing worldwide. Drinking low-mineral water is associated with cardiovascular disease, osteopenia, and certain neurodegenerative diseases. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. The liver metabolic alterations in rats induced by drinking purified water for 3 months were investigated with a metabolomics-based strategy. Compared with the tap water group, 74 metabolites were significantly changed in the purified water group (6 increased and 68 decreased), including 29 amino acids, 11 carbohydrates, 10 fatty acids, 7 short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and 17 other biomolecules. Eight metabolic pathways were significantly changed, namely aminoacyl–tRNA biosynthesis; nitrogen metabolism; alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism; arginine and proline metabolism; histidine metabolism; biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids; butanoate metabolism; and glycine, serine and threonine metabolism. These changes suggested that consumption of purified water induced negative nitrogen balance, reduced expression of some polyunsaturated fatty acids and SCFAs, and disturbed energy metabolism in rats. These metabolic disturbances may contribute to low-mineral-water-associated health risks. The health risk of consuming low-mineral water requires attention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Metabolism)
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22 pages, 1572 KiB  
Review
Genetic Modifications in Bacteria for the Degradation of Synthetic Polymers: A Review
by Diego Martín-González, Carlos de la Fuente Tagarro, Andrea De Lucas, Sergio Bordel and Fernando Santos-Beneit
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5536; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105536 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Synthetic polymers, commonly known as plastics, are currently present in all aspects of our lives. Although they are useful, they present the problem of what to do with them after their lifespan. There are currently mechanical and chemical methods to treat plastics, but [...] Read more.
Synthetic polymers, commonly known as plastics, are currently present in all aspects of our lives. Although they are useful, they present the problem of what to do with them after their lifespan. There are currently mechanical and chemical methods to treat plastics, but these are methods that, among other disadvantages, can be expensive in terms of energy or produce polluting gases. A more environmentally friendly alternative is recycling, although this practice is not widespread. Based on the practice of the so-called circular economy, many studies are focused on the biodegradation of these polymers by enzymes. Using enzymes is a harmless method that can also generate substances with high added value. Novel and enhanced plastic-degrading enzymes have been obtained by modifying the amino acid sequence of existing ones, especially on their active site, using a wide variety of genetic approaches. Currently, many studies focus on the common aim of achieving strains with greater hydrolytic activity toward a different range of plastic polymers. Although in most cases the depolymerization rate is improved, more research is required to develop effective biodegradation strategies for plastic recycling or upcycling. This review focuses on a compilation and discussion of the most important research outcomes carried out on microbial biotechnology to degrade and recycle plastics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Engineering in Microbial Biotechnology)
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11 pages, 2191 KiB  
Communication
Head Gesture Recognition Combining Activity Detection and Dynamic Time Warping
by Huaizhou Li and Haiyan Hu
J. Imaging 2024, 10(5), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/jimaging10050123 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
The recognition of head movements plays an important role in human–computer interface domains. The data collected with image sensors or inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors are often used for identifying these types of actions. Compared with image processing methods, a recognition system using [...] Read more.
The recognition of head movements plays an important role in human–computer interface domains. The data collected with image sensors or inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors are often used for identifying these types of actions. Compared with image processing methods, a recognition system using an IMU sensor has obvious advantages in terms of complexity, processing speed, and cost. In this paper, an IMU sensor is used to collect head movement data on the legs of glasses, and a new approach for recognizing head movements is proposed by combining activity detection and dynamic time warping (DTW). The activity detection of the time series of head movements is essentially based on the different characteristics exhibited by actions and noises. The DTW method estimates the warp path distances between the time series of the actions and the templates by warping under the time axis. Then, the types of head movements are determined by the minimum of these distances. The results show that a 100% accuracy was achieved in the task of classifying six types of head movements. This method provides a new option for head gesture recognition in current human–computer interfaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition)
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28 pages, 4381 KiB  
Article
Public Attitudes and Sentiments toward Common Prosperity in China: A Text Mining Analysis Based on Social Media
by Yang Li, Tianyu Duan and Lijing Zhu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4295; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104295 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Since 2021, China’s promotion of common prosperity has captured global attention and sparked considerable debate. Yet, scholarly examination of the Chinese public’s attitudes toward this policy, which is crucial for guiding China’s strategic directions, remains limited. To address this gap, this paper collects [...] Read more.
Since 2021, China’s promotion of common prosperity has captured global attention and sparked considerable debate. Yet, scholarly examination of the Chinese public’s attitudes toward this policy, which is crucial for guiding China’s strategic directions, remains limited. To address this gap, this paper collects 256,233 Sina Weibo posts from 2021 to 2023 and utilizes text mining methods such as temporal and trend analysis, keyword analysis, topic analysis, and sentiment analysis to investigate the attitudes and emotions of the Chinese people towards common prosperity. The posts holding negative sentiments are also analyzed, so as to uncover the underlying reasons for the dissatisfaction among Chinese citizens regarding common prosperity. Our analysis reveals that China’s strategy for promoting common prosperity is primarily focused on economic development rather than wealth redistribution. Emphasis is placed on enhancing education, achieving regional balance, implementing market-oriented reforms, and improving livelihoods. Notably, there is increasing public dissatisfaction, particularly with issues such as irregularities in financial and real estate markets, growing wealth inequality, exploitation by capital, generation of illicit income, and regional development imbalances. These challenges necessitate urgent and effective policy interventions. Full article
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13 pages, 1086 KiB  
Article
Congenital Hyperinsulinism Caused by Mutations in ABCC8 Gene Associated with Early-Onset Neonatal Hypoglycemia: Genetic Heterogeneity Correlated with Phenotypic Variability
by Lăcrămioara Ionela Butnariu, Delia Andreia Bizim, Gabriela Păduraru, Luminița Păduraru, Ștefana Maria Moisă, Setalia Popa, Nicoleta Gimiga, Gabriela Ghiga, Minerva Codruța Bădescu, Ancuta Lupu, Ioana Vasiliu and Laura Mihaela Trandafir
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5533; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105533 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is a rare disorder of glucose metabolism and is the most common cause of severe and persistent hypoglycemia (hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia, HH) in the neonatal period and childhood. Most cases are caused by mutations in the ABCC8 and KCNJ11 genes that [...] Read more.
Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is a rare disorder of glucose metabolism and is the most common cause of severe and persistent hypoglycemia (hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia, HH) in the neonatal period and childhood. Most cases are caused by mutations in the ABCC8 and KCNJ11 genes that encode the ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP). We present the correlation between genetic heterogeneity and the variable phenotype in patients with early-onset HH caused by ABCC8 gene mutations. In the first patient, who presented persistent severe hypoglycemia since the first day of life, molecular genetic testing revealed the presence of a homozygous mutation in the ABCC8 gene [deletion in the ABCC8 gene c.(2390+1_2391-1)_(3329+1_3330-1)del] that correlated with a diffuse form of hyperinsulinism (the parents being healthy heterozygous carriers). In the second patient, the onset was on the third day of life with severe hypoglycemia, and genetic testing identified a heterozygous mutation in the ABCC8 gene c.1792C>T (p.Arg598*) inherited on the paternal line, which led to the diagnosis of the focal form of hyperinsulinism. To locate the focal lesions, (18)F-DOPA (3,4-dihydroxy-6-[18F]fluoro-L-phenylalanine) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) was recommended (an investigation that cannot be carried out in the country), but the parents refused to carry out the investigation abroad. In this case, early surgical treatment could have been curative. In addition, the second child also presented secondary adrenal insufficiency requiring replacement therapy. At the same time, she developed early recurrent seizures that required antiepileptic treatment. We emphasize the importance of molecular genetic testing for diagnosis, management and genetic counseling in patients with HH. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic Diseases and Genetic Variants)
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14 pages, 1067 KiB  
Systematic Review
Objective Methods to Assess Aorto-Iliac Calcifications: A Systematic Review
by Anna Fornasari, Salomé Kuntz, Chiara Martini, Paolo Perini, Elisa Cabrini, Antonio Freyrie, Anne Lejay and Nabil Chakfé
Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 1053; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14101053 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Vascular calcifications in aorto-iliac arteries are emerging as crucial risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) with profound clinical implications. This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, investigated methodologies for measuring these calcifications and explored their correlation with CVDs and clinical outcomes. Out of 698 [...] Read more.
Vascular calcifications in aorto-iliac arteries are emerging as crucial risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) with profound clinical implications. This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, investigated methodologies for measuring these calcifications and explored their correlation with CVDs and clinical outcomes. Out of 698 publications, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. In total, 7 studies utilized manual methods, while 4 studies utilized automated technologies, including artificial intelligence and deep learning for image analyses. Age, systolic blood pressure, serum calcium, and lipoprotein(a) levels were found to be independent risk factors for aortic calcification. Mortality from CVDs was correlated with abdominal aorta calcification. Patients requiring reintervention after endovascular recanalization exhibited a significantly higher volume of calcification in their iliac arteries. Conclusions: This review reveals a diverse landscape of measurement methods for aorto-iliac calcifications; however, they lack a standardized reproducibility assessment. Automatic methods employing artificial intelligence appear to offer broader applicability and are less time-consuming. Assessment of calcium scoring could be routinely employed during preoperative workups for risk stratification and detailed surgical planning. Additionally, its correlation with clinical outcomes could be useful in predicting the risk of reinterventions and amputations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Imaging)
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13 pages, 276 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Surgical Safety: Microbiological Air Control in Operating Theatres at University Medical Centre Maribor
by Lidija Gradisnik, Gorazd Bunc, Janez Ravnik and Tomaz Velnar
Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 1054; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14101054 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Background: the aim of the study was to assess microbiological air quality in operating theatres by determining the level of microbiological contamination of the air and critical surfaces using the passive air sampling method and compliance of the operating theatre staff with infection [...] Read more.
Background: the aim of the study was to assess microbiological air quality in operating theatres by determining the level of microbiological contamination of the air and critical surfaces using the passive air sampling method and compliance of the operating theatre staff with infection control measures. Materials and methods: The prospective study was conducted in the surgical block of the University Medical Centre Maribor. For two months continuously, ten operating theatres were assessed for microbial contamination of air and surfaces during quiet and active times of the day. A passive air sampling method with Petri dishes on an agar specially adapted for this purpose (plate count agar) was used. In addition, ten surgical procedures were observed to assess staff compliance with recommended practises. Results: Air samples met microbiological standards in all operating theatres. In both sampling sessions of the day (quiet and active periods), microbial contamination of the air was always within the limit of 10 CFU/m3. The average number of bacterial colonies was zero to two during quiet phases and one to four during active phases. Approximately 60% of the isolates from the operating theatres belonged mainly to the genus Staphylococcus: S. epidermidis (36% of the isolates), S. hominis (17.5%) and S. haemolyticus (5.5%). The rest were identified as Streptococcus anginosus (23%) and Bacillus sp. (18%). Pathogenic bacteria and moulds were not present. In regard to staff compliance with good surgical practise, the former varied by behaviour and function, with non-compliance in pre-operative skin preparation and operating theatre congestion being notable. The cleanliness of the environment was satisfactory. Conclusions: Microbiological air control is extremely important for the safety and success of both surgical and postoperative practises. In spite of good results obtained in the study, further improvements in surgical staff compliance with good surgical practise are essential to reduce surgical site infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbiology Laboratory: Sample Collection and Diagnosis Advances)
12 pages, 3618 KiB  
Article
Experimental Investigation of Solid Rocket Scramjet Based on Central Strut
by Jia Zeng, Guohui Wang, Hui Huang, Jian Fan and Haosu Wang
Aerospace 2024, 11(5), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11050410 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Scramjet based on solid propellant has become a potential choice for the development of future hypersonic vehicles. In this paper, a boron-containing solid rocket scramjet based on the central strut injection was proposed, and the ground direct-connect experiment with the equivalence ratios of [...] Read more.
Scramjet based on solid propellant has become a potential choice for the development of future hypersonic vehicles. In this paper, a boron-containing solid rocket scramjet based on the central strut injection was proposed, and the ground direct-connect experiment with the equivalence ratios of 0.43 to 2.4 under the flight condition of Mach 6, 25 km was carried out. The pressure and flow rate over time were measured in the experiment. The results show that the engine can realize stable supersonic mode or subsonic mode combustion by changing the gas flow rate. The engine can effectively increase the combustor pressure, reduce the unstable combustion time, and advance the strong combustion position by increasing the gas flow rate. The engine achieved high combustion efficiency when the equivalence ratio was about 1, with a maximum of 88.28%. A numerical simulation analysis was also carried out in this paper. Compared to the experimental results, the pressure error obtained by numerical simulation was less than 4%, and the typical position error was less than 3%, suggesting that the simulation model can be used to predict the behavior of scramjet. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Chemical Propulsion and Electric Propulsion)
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18 pages, 2772 KiB  
Article
Carrabiitol®, a Novel Oligosaccharide Polyol Composition, Mitigates the Impact of Flooding, Drought, Salinity, and High Temperature in Tomato
by Femida Yunus Patel, Kaushal Kishore Upreti, Ramanna Hunashikatti Laxman and Neil Jaykumar Shah
Biology 2024, 13(5), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050356 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Abiotic stress results in various physiological and biochemical changes in plants. Osmolytes play a pivotal role in improving the tolerance to abiotic stress in plants. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a commercial formulation, Carrabiitol®, an oligosaccharide polyol composition, in alleviating [...] Read more.
Abiotic stress results in various physiological and biochemical changes in plants. Osmolytes play a pivotal role in improving the tolerance to abiotic stress in plants. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a commercial formulation, Carrabiitol®, an oligosaccharide polyol composition, in alleviating adverse impacts of abiotic stress in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. var. Arka Rakshak) plants. Plants were raised from seed and treated with 1 mL/L, 2 mL/L, and 3 mL/L of Carrabiitol®. The foliage of developing plants was treated at the 2–3 leaf stage (T2, T3, and T4) and at pre-flowering stage (T5, T6, and T7). Growth conditions were compared with those of plants developed from untreated seed (T1). Developing tomato plants were then exposed to flooding, salinity (50 mM NaCl), high temperature (41.1 °C), or drought at the flowering stage. Plants were evaluated for their dry weight, leaf water potential, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, antioxidant potential, chlorophyll, carotenoid, glucose, sucrose, malondialdehyde, and proline contents. Pre-treated seed, which received a booster treatment at the 2–3 leaf stage (T4 = seed treatment and booster at the 2–3 leaf stage with 3 mL/L Carrabiitol®) and pre-flowering stages (T5, T6, and T7 = seed treatment and booster doses at the pre-flowering stage with 1, 2, and 3 mL/L Carrabiitol®, respectively), was effective in mitigating negative impacts on various growth parameters of stressed tomato plants (p < 0.05). Carrabiitol® may be an effective, sustainable, and bio-rational organic osmolyte formulation for reducing the effects of abiotic stress on plant growth and productivity. Full article
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13 pages, 2365 KiB  
Article
Validation of the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Eucalyptus benthamii Maiden & Cambage Wood and Cross Laminated Timber Panels Using the Finite Element Method
by Matheus Zanghelini Teixeira, Rodrigo Figueiredo Terezo, Alexsandro Bayestorff da Cunha, Gustavo Faggiani Tomio, Hector Bovo Coelho and Camila Alves Corrêa
Forests 2024, 15(5), 881; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050881 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is a structurally complex panel that poses challenges in analysis due to the anisotropic nature of wood and the orthotropic characteristics of the composite. Numerical modeling using the Finite Element Method (FEM) offers a viable solution for analysis, particularly [...] Read more.
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is a structurally complex panel that poses challenges in analysis due to the anisotropic nature of wood and the orthotropic characteristics of the composite. Numerical modeling using the Finite Element Method (FEM) offers a viable solution for analysis, particularly for addressing boundary value problems that are analytically challenging. Therefore, it is crucial to validate the experimental properties to ensure accurate results. The objective of this study was to validate the physical and mechanical properties for structural modeling using FEM, based on the characterization of Eucalyptus benthamii Maiden & Cambage wood and CLT panels. For wood characterization, the basic and apparent density were determined, and mechanical tests, including static bending, parallel-to-grain compression, and shear tests, were conducted. Utilizing the same batch of wood, three-layer CLT panels were manufactured and subjected to a non-destructive three-point bending test. This test was simulated in RFEM finite element software, employing Mindlin’s theory, and the displacements obtained were compared with the experimental method. The results from a Student’s t-test at a 5% significance level indicated no significant difference between the experimental and numerical methods, suggesting that the properties of the experimental E. benthamii CLT panel can be accurately represented by FEM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Materials in the Forest Products Industry)
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12 pages, 1089 KiB  
Article
Factors Associated with Public Water Supply Unreliability
by Fahad Alzahrani and Rady Tawfik
Water 2024, 16(10), 1446; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101446 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Public water supply unreliability is a problem that causes human hardships and remains common in the United States. In this paper, we attempt to examine the factors associated with public water supply unreliability. We measure public water service unreliability by the issuance of [...] Read more.
Public water supply unreliability is a problem that causes human hardships and remains common in the United States. In this paper, we attempt to examine the factors associated with public water supply unreliability. We measure public water service unreliability by the issuance of boil water notices (BWNs). By using a Negative Binomial regression model and data from West Virginia community water systems in 2020, we find that water systems that purchase their water from other water systems, have more educated and experienced operators, and serve high-income areas and a higher percentage of Native residents are expected to issue more BWNs. On the other hand, water systems that are small and serve a higher percentage of rural, educated, employed residents are expected to issue fewer BWNs. The findings emphasize the need to move beyond simplistic assumptions about water system reliability and consider the combined influence of technical, socio-economic, and demographic factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management of Water Distribution Systems)
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18 pages, 3546 KiB  
Article
Genome Variability in Artificial Allopolyploid Hybrids of Avena sativa L. and Avena macrostachya Balansa. ex Coss. et Durieu Based on Marker Sequences of Satellite DNA and the ITS1–5.8S rDNA Region
by Alexandra V. Amosova, Alexander A. Gnutikov, Alexander V. Rodionov, Igor G. Loskutov, Nikolai N. Nosov, Olga Yu. Yurkevich, Tatiana E. Samatadze, Svyatoslav A. Zoshchuk and Olga V. Muravenko
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5534; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105534 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Artificial hybrids between cultivated Avena species and wild Avena macrostachya that possess genes for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses can be important for oat breeding. For the first time, a comprehensive study of genomes of artificial fertile hybrids Avena sativa × Avena [...] Read more.
Artificial hybrids between cultivated Avena species and wild Avena macrostachya that possess genes for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses can be important for oat breeding. For the first time, a comprehensive study of genomes of artificial fertile hybrids Avena sativa × Avena macrostachya and their parental species was carried out based on the chromosome FISH mapping of satellite DNA sequences (satDNAs) and also analysis of intragenomic polymorphism in the 18S–ITS1–5.8S rDNA region, using NGS data. Chromosome distribution patterns of marker satDNAs allowed us to identify all chromosomes in the studied karyotypes, determine their subgenomic affiliation, and detect several chromosome rearrangements. Based on the obtained cytogenomic data, we revealed differences between two A. macrostachya subgenomes and demonstrated that only one of them was inherited in the studied octoploid hybrids. Ribotype analyses showed that the second major ribotype of A. macrostachya was species-specific and was not represented in rDNA pools of the octoploids, which could be related to the allopolyploid origin of this species. Our results indicate that the use of marker satDNAs in cytogenomic studies can provide important data on genomic relationships within Avena allopolyploid species and hybrids, and also expand the potential for interspecific crosses for breeding. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Satellite DNAs)
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8 pages, 2325 KiB  
Article
Photoluminescence Spectra Correlations with Structural Distortion in Eu3+- and Ce3+-Doped Y3Al5-2x(Mg,Ge)xO12 (x = 0, 1, 2) Garnet Phosphors
by Heonji Ha, Sungjun Yang and Sangmoon Park
Materials 2024, 17(10), 2445; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17102445 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Garnet-type materials consisting of Y3Al5-2x(Mg,Ge)xO12 (x = 0, 1, 2), combined with Eu3+ or Ce3+ activator ions, were prepared by a solid-state method to determine the structural and optical correlations. The structure [...] Read more.
Garnet-type materials consisting of Y3Al5-2x(Mg,Ge)xO12 (x = 0, 1, 2), combined with Eu3+ or Ce3+ activator ions, were prepared by a solid-state method to determine the structural and optical correlations. The structure of Y3Al5-2x(Mg,Ge)xO12 (x = 1, 2) was determined to be a cubic unit cell (Ia-3d), which contains an 8-coordinated Y3+ site with octahedral (Mg,Al)O6 and tetrahedral (Al,Ge)O4 polyhedra, using synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction. When Eu3+ or Ce3+ ions were substituted for the Y3+ site in the Y3Al5-2x(Mg,Ge)xO12 host lattices, the emission spectra showed a decrease in the magnetic dipole f-f Eu3+ transition and a redshift of the d-f Ce3+ transition, related to centrosymmetry and crystal field splitting, respectively. These changes were monitored according to the increase in Mg2+ and Ge4+ contents. The dodecahedral and octahedral edge sharing was identified as a key distortion factor for the structure-correlated luminescence in the Eu3+/Ce3+-doped Y3Al5-2x(Mg,Ge)xO12 garnet phosphors. Full article
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13 pages, 8481 KiB  
Article
Quantitative Analysis of Comprehensive Similarity in Restoration of Ancient Building Walls Using Hue–Saturation–Value Color Space and Circular Local Binary Pattern
by Chun Gong, Shuisheng Zeng and Dunwen Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1478; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051478 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Evaluating the effects of wall restoration on ancient buildings has been a difficult task, and it is important that the overall appearance of the restored walls of ancient buildings is similar, harmonious, and uniform. This paper used a hue–saturation–value (HSV) color space and [...] Read more.
Evaluating the effects of wall restoration on ancient buildings has been a difficult task, and it is important that the overall appearance of the restored walls of ancient buildings is similar, harmonious, and uniform. This paper used a hue–saturation–value (HSV) color space and Circular Local Binary Pattern (CLBP) to analyze the comprehensive similarity between a restored wall and the original walls in Qi Li Ancient Town. The results show that the values of the comprehensive similarity calculation of ancient buildings based on the color and texture were consistent with the actual situation. The method is suitable for evaluating the degree of matching between wall repair materials and the appearance of the original wall materials of ancient buildings, and it can also be used to assess the comprehensive similarity between the repair materials and the original building walls before carrying out the wall repair in order to select more suitable materials for wall repair and achieve the best repair effect. And it is flexible and objective compared to human judgement. Through the accurate restoration of ancient buildings, not only can we protect cultural heritage and continue the historical lineage, we can also enhance the aesthetic value of buildings and meet people’s needs for historical and cultural tracing. Full article
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13 pages, 258 KiB  
Article
The Role of Prognostic Scores in Assessing the Prognosis of Patients Admitted in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit: Emphasis on Heart Failure Patients
by Aidonis Rammos, Aris Bechlioulis, Stefania Chatzipanteliadou, Spyros Athanasios Sioros, Christos D. Floros, Ilektra Stamou, Lampros Lakkas, Petros Kalogeras, Vasileios Bouratzis, Christos S. Katsouras, Lampros K. Michalis and Katerina K. Naka
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 2982; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13102982 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patient care in Cardiac Intensive Care Units (CICU) has evolved but data on patient characteristics and outcomes are sparse. This retrospective observational study aimed to define clinical characteristics and risk factors of CICU patients, their in-hospital and 30-day mortality, and compare [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patient care in Cardiac Intensive Care Units (CICU) has evolved but data on patient characteristics and outcomes are sparse. This retrospective observational study aimed to define clinical characteristics and risk factors of CICU patients, their in-hospital and 30-day mortality, and compare it with established risk scores. Methods: Consecutive patients (n = 294, mean age 70 years, 74% males) hospitalized within 15 months were studied; APACHE II, EHMRG, GWTG-HF, and GRACE II were calculated on admission. Results: Most patients were admitted for ACS (48.3%) and acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) (31.3%). Median duration of hospitalization was 2 days (IQR = 1, 4). In-hospital infection occurred in 20%, 18% needed mechanical ventilation, 10% renal replacement therapy and 4% percutaneous ventricular assist devices (33%, 29%, 20% and 4%, respectively, for ADHF). In-hospital and 30-day mortality was 18% and 11% for all patients (29% and 23%, respectively, for ADHF). Established scores (especially APACHE II) had a good diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve-AUC). In univariate and multivariate analyses in-hospital intubation and infection, history of coronary artery disease, hypotension, uremia and hypoxemia on admission were the most important risk factors. Based on these, a proposed new score showed a diagnostic accuracy of 0.954 (AUC) for in-hospital mortality, outperforming previous scores. Conclusions: Patients are admitted mainly with ACS or ADHF, the latter with worse prognosis. Several patients need advanced support; intubation and infections adversely affect prognosis. Established scores predict mortality satisfactorily, but larger studies are needed to develop CICU-directed scores to identify risk factors, improve prediction, guide treatment and staff training. Full article
12 pages, 274 KiB  
Article
Cardiovascular Outcome in Patients with Major Depression: Role of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome, Insomnia Disorder, and COMISA
by Matthieu Hein, Benjamin Wacquier, Matteo Conenna, Jean-Pol Lanquart and Camille Point
Life 2024, 14(5), 644; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14050644 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, the 10-year cardiovascular risk associated with comorbid sleep disorders (insomnia disorder, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, and COMISA [comorbid insomnia and sleep apnea]) was investigated for patients with major depression. To enable our analysis, 607 patients with major depression were selected [...] Read more.
In this study, the 10-year cardiovascular risk associated with comorbid sleep disorders (insomnia disorder, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, and COMISA [comorbid insomnia and sleep apnea]) was investigated for patients with major depression. To enable our analysis, 607 patients with major depression were selected from the data register of the Sleep Unit. High 10-year cardiovascular risk was considered present when the Framingham Risk Score was ≥10%. The 10-year cardiovascular risk associated with comorbid sleep disorders has been assessed using logistic regression analyzes. High 10-year cardiovascular risk is significant (40.4%) in patients with major depression. After successive introduction of the different confounders, multivariate logistic regressions showed that for patients with major depression high 10-year cardiovascular risk was significantly associated with COMISA but was not significantly associated with insomnia disorder or obstructive sleep apnea syndrome alone. Thus, these results highlight the existence of a negative synergistic action between insomnia disorder and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome on the 10-year cardiovascular risk in patients with major depression, which demonstrates the importance of researching and treating COMISA to improve the prognosis of this specific population subgroup characterized by higher cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crosstalk between Cardiovascular Disease and Its Comorbidities)
12 pages, 1669 KiB  
Article
Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer—A Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Referral Hospital in Romania
by Elena Savu, Valeriu Șurlin, Liviu Vasile, Ileana Octavia Petrescu, Cristina Elena Singer, Nicolae-Daniel Pirici and Stelian Stefanita Mogoanta
Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14101052 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Early-onset colorectal cancer emerges as a distinctive clinical and biological entity and is generally defined as the onset of colon or rectal neoplasia before the age of 50. Several reports describe an increasing incidence worldwide of colorectal cancers occurring in individuals younger than [...] Read more.
Early-onset colorectal cancer emerges as a distinctive clinical and biological entity and is generally defined as the onset of colon or rectal neoplasia before the age of 50. Several reports describe an increasing incidence worldwide of colorectal cancers occurring in individuals younger than 50 years, along with particular histologic and molecular features. Although heredity may be an explanation in some cases with young-onset colorectal cancer, other driving factors remain partially unknown. The present study explores demographic, clinical, and pathological features within a group of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer before the age of 50. It is a retrospective survey based on data collected between 2017 and 2023 within three surgical departments from a tertiary Romanian hospital. The clinical and pathological features we identified (later-stage disease, distal colon tumor localization, mucinous histology) are mainly superimposed with the existing data in the literature regarding this pathology. In order to lower the burden that colorectal neoplasia diagnosed in the young implies, a change of paradigm should be made in terms of establishing effective and targeted screening programs but also in the direction of enhancing complex clinical, pathological, and molecular diagnosis. Full article
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