The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
22 pages, 3173 KiB  
Article
Gastrointestinal Myoelectrical Activity (GIMA) Biomarker for Noninvasive Diagnosis of Endometriosis
by Mark Noar, John Mathias and Ajit Kolatkar
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 2866; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13102866 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Endometriosis represents substantial direct and indirect healthcare costs impacted by an absence of uniformly accurate, non-invasive diagnostic tools. We endeavored to demonstrate gastrointestinal myoelectrical activity (GIMA) biomarkers, unique to endometriosis, will allow non-invasive, uniformly accurate diagnosis or exclusion of endometriosis. Methods: Prospective [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Endometriosis represents substantial direct and indirect healthcare costs impacted by an absence of uniformly accurate, non-invasive diagnostic tools. We endeavored to demonstrate gastrointestinal myoelectrical activity (GIMA) biomarkers, unique to endometriosis, will allow non-invasive, uniformly accurate diagnosis or exclusion of endometriosis. Methods: Prospective open-label comparative study of 154 patients, age ≥ 18, with or without diagnosed endometriosis. Population included 62 non-endometriosis controls (Cohort 1), 43 subjects with surgically/histologically confirmed endometriosis (Cohort 2), and 49 subjects with abdominal pain and negative imaging (Cohort 3). Non-invasive electroviscerography (EVG) recorded GIMA biomarkers from three abdominal electrodes before and 30 min post water load protocol. Cohort 2 had postoperative EVG and Cohort 3 had preoperative EVG. Calculated specificity, sensitivity, negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV), and predictive probability or C-statistic used univariate, multivariate, linear, and logistical regression analyses of the area under the curve (AUC) at all frequency and time points, including age and pain covariants. Results: The non-endometriosis cohort differed significantly from the endometriosis cohorts (p < 0.001) for median (IQR) and AUC percent frequency distribution of power at baseline, 10 min, 20 min, and 30 min post water load at all frequency ranges: 15–20 cpm, 30–40 cpm, and 40–50 cpm. The endometriosis cohorts were statistically similar (p > 0.05). GIMA biomarker threshold scoring demonstrated 95%/91% sensitivity and PPV, 96%/95% specificity and NPV, and a C-statistic of >99%/98%, respectively, for age subsets. GIMA biomarkers in Cohort 3 predicted 47/49 subjects positive and 2/49 negative for endometriosis, confirmed surgically. Hormonal therapy, surgical stage, nor pain score affected diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions: EVG with GIMA biomarker detection distinguished participants with and without endometriosis based upon endometriosis-specific GIMA biomarkers threshold scoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Endometriosis: Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment)
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6 pages, 712 KiB  
Editorial
CRISPR-Cas Systems and Genome Editing: Beginning the Era of CRISPR/Cas Therapies for Humans
by Dmitry S. Karpov
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5292; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105292 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Harnessing of CRISPR/Cas (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated genes) systems for detection, chemical modification, and sequence editing of nucleic acids dramatically changed many fields of fundamental science, biotechnology, and biomedicine [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue CRISPR-Cas Systems and Genome Editing)
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22 pages, 3341 KiB  
Article
Biological Activity and Phytochemical Characteristics of Star Anise (Illicium verum) Essential Oil and Its Anti-Salmonella Activity on Sous Vide Pumpkin Model
by Miroslava Kačániová, Nenad L. Vukovic, Natália Čmiková, Alessandro Bianchi, Stefania Garzoli, Rania Ben Saad, Anis Ben Hsouna, Joel Horacio Elizondo-Luévano, Hussein A. H. Said-Al Ahl, Wafaa M. Hikal and Milena D. Vukic
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1505; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101505 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Illicium verum, commonly known as star anise, represents one of the notable botanical species and is recognized for its rich reservoir of diverse bioactive compounds. Beyond its culinary application as a spice, this plant has been extensively utilized in traditional medicine. Given [...] Read more.
Illicium verum, commonly known as star anise, represents one of the notable botanical species and is recognized for its rich reservoir of diverse bioactive compounds. Beyond its culinary application as a spice, this plant has been extensively utilized in traditional medicine. Given the contemporary emphasis on incorporating natural resources into food production, particularly essential oils, to enhance sensory attributes and extend shelf life, our study seeks to elucidate the chemical composition and evaluate the antibacterial (in vitro, in situ) and insecticidal properties of Illicium verum essential oil (IVEO). Also, microbiological analyses of pumpkin sous vide treated with IVEO after inoculation of Salmonella enterica were evaluated after 1 and 7 days of study. GC/MS analysis revealed a significantly high amount of (E)-anethole (88.4%) in the investigated EO. The disc diffusion method shows that the antibacterial activity of the IVEO ranged from 5.33 (Streptococcus constellatus) to 10.33 mm (Citrobacter freundii). The lowest minimal inhibition concentration was found against E. coli and the minimum biofilm inhibition concertation was found against S. enterica. In the vapor phase, the best antimicrobial activity was found against E. coli in the pears model and against S. sonei in the beetroot model. The application of the sous vide method in combination with IVEO application decreased the number of microbial counts and eliminated the growth of S. enterica. The most isolated microbiota identified from the sous vide pumpkin were Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, B. cereus, B. licheniformis, and Ralstonia picketii. Modifications to the protein composition of biofilm-forming bacteria S. enterica were suggested by the MALDI TOF MS instigations. The IVEO showed insecticidal potential against Harmonia axyridis. Thanks to the properties of IVEO, our results suggest it can be used in the food industry as a natural supplement to extend the shelf life of foods and as a natural insecticide. Full article
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17 pages, 3280 KiB  
Article
Key Aroma Differences in Volatile Compounds of Aged Feng-Flavored Baijiu Determined Using Sensory Descriptive Analysis and GC×GC–TOFMS
by Jinmei Ren, Zhijian Li and Wei Jia
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101504 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Sensory descriptive analysis of aged feng-flavored Baijiu liquor indicated notable differences in samples of different ages. The samples of freshly distilled Baijiu and those with shorter storage times exhibit bran and fresh green flavors, whereas, with increasing storage time, honey, sweet, and floral [...] Read more.
Sensory descriptive analysis of aged feng-flavored Baijiu liquor indicated notable differences in samples of different ages. The samples of freshly distilled Baijiu and those with shorter storage times exhibit bran and fresh green flavors, whereas, with increasing storage time, honey, sweet, and floral fragrances are gradually enhanced. Samples of feng-flavored Baijiu were prepared using headspace solid-phase microextraction, followed by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A total of 496 compounds were identified in all samples, mainly categorized as 14 groups of substances, including esters and aldehydes. Interestingly, 42 of these substances were found in Feng-flavored Baijiu for the first time. Chemometrics was used to analyze the key differential compounds. First, 143 differential compounds closely related to aging were preliminarily screened, and principal component analysis revealed that these compounds were separated by baijiu age. Then, 65 differential compounds were selected by partial least squares discriminant analysis. Furthermore, 43 key differential compounds were selected by combined analysis with variable importance in projection and Pearson correlation coefficients. Partial least squares regression was used to study the correlation between the sensory properties and key differential compounds, and the results indicated that most compounds were closely related to the aging period of the Baijiu. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis and reference for flavor research on feng-flavored Baijiu. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Analytical Methods)
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13 pages, 663 KiB  
Article
Meat Characteristics, Expression of Myosin Heavy Chain and Metabolism-Related Genes in Thai Native Pigs
by Chanporn Chaosap, Kamon Chaweewan, Kazeem D. Adeyemi, Netanong Phonkate and Ronachai Sitthigripong
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1502; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101502 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the meat quality, expression of myosin heavy chain (MyHC) and metabolism-related genes, ribonucleotides and fatty acids in Longissimus thoracis of Thai native pigs (TNPs) from different geographical regions (GR). Forty-one 9–10-month-old castrated TNPs (BW 60 kg), consisting of 18, 11 [...] Read more.
This study investigated the meat quality, expression of myosin heavy chain (MyHC) and metabolism-related genes, ribonucleotides and fatty acids in Longissimus thoracis of Thai native pigs (TNPs) from different geographical regions (GR). Forty-one 9–10-month-old castrated TNPs (BW 60 kg), consisting of 18, 11 and 12 pigs from Northern (NT), Southern (ST) and Northeastern (NE) regions, respectively, were slaughtered. GR did not affect (p > 0.05) the expression of MyHC, phosphoglycerate mutase 1, cytosolic glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, triosephosphate isomerase 1 and adipocyte fatty acid binding protein genes. The trend of MyHC was MyHC IIx > MyHC IIb > MyHC IIa > MyHC I. The NT loin had higher (p < 0.05) glycogen, C18:2n6, C20:4n6 and cooking loss, lower inosine, inosine monophosphate and hypoxanthine and a shorter sarcomere length than the ST and NE loins. The ST loin had a lower (p < 0.05) a* compared to other loins. Principal component analysis established significant relationships between the TNP and specific meat quality traits. This finding suggests that GR affected the meat quality, ribonucleotides and selected fatty acids in TNPs. These results provide relevant information that can be used to optimize the use of Thai native pork. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Meat)
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14 pages, 2702 KiB  
Article
Identification of Biotransformation Products of T-2 Toxin in HepG2 Cells Using LC-Q-TOF MS
by Mercedes Taroncher, Veronica Zingales, Yelko Rodríguez-Carrasco and María José Ruiz
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1501; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101501 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The T-2 toxin (T-2) is a type A trichothecene found in cereals. The formation of metabolites is a frequent cause of mycotoxin-induced toxicity. In this work, the conversion of T-2 during biotransformation reactions in HepG2 cells was evaluated. For this, HepG2 cells were [...] Read more.
The T-2 toxin (T-2) is a type A trichothecene found in cereals. The formation of metabolites is a frequent cause of mycotoxin-induced toxicity. In this work, the conversion of T-2 during biotransformation reactions in HepG2 cells was evaluated. For this, HepG2 cells were exposed to 30 (IC50/2) and 60 (IC50) nM of T-2 for 0, 1, 2, 3, 6, 8 and 24 h, and the concentrations of T-2 and its metabolites HT-2, T2-triol, T2-tetraol and neosolaniol were determined in both the cell fraction and culture medium through liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry–time of flight (LC-Q-TOF MS). Results showed a fast metabolization of T-2 (>90%) during the first 2 h, with HT-2 as its main (>95%) biotransformation product. The cell fraction showed higher levels (p < 0.05) of HT-2 (39.9 ± 2.1 nM) compared to the culture medium (12.53 ± 2.4 nM). This trend was also observed for the identified metabolites. T2-triol reached its maximum concentration (1.7 ± 0.4 nM) at 2 h, and at later times a time-dependent increase in the T2-tetraol and neosolaniol concentrations was observed. The identification of T-2 metabolites shows the need to continue combined toxicity studies of mycotoxins for a correct risk characterization of these natural contaminants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxin Contamination of Foods: From Occurrence to Control)
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18 pages, 439 KiB  
Article
Trust in Acquaintances, Strangers and Institutions among Individuals of Different Socioeconomic Statuses during Public Health Emergencies: The Moderation of Family Structure and Policy Perception
by Xueyan Li, Xiaoli Sun and Qianqian Shao
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 404; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050404 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Trust plays a crucial role in effectively responding to public health emergencies. Drawing on COVID-19 survey data conducted in Hubei, China, during August 2020 with a sample size of 5494, this study investigated the influence of individuals’ socioeconomic status on trust in acquaintances, [...] Read more.
Trust plays a crucial role in effectively responding to public health emergencies. Drawing on COVID-19 survey data conducted in Hubei, China, during August 2020 with a sample size of 5494, this study investigated the influence of individuals’ socioeconomic status on trust in acquaintances, strangers and institutions, and how this relationship is moderated by epidemic prevention, policy perception and family structure. The findings showed that individuals with higher socioeconomic status tend to have higher levels of trust. Those with higher income but being married demonstrate higher trust. When perceiving epidemic prevention policies as stringent, those with higher income display increased trust in acquaintances and institutions; similarly, those with lower education levels exhibit heightened trust in acquaintances and strangers. Individuals working in social organizations express higher trust in strangers; however, their trust is compromised under stringent epidemic prevention policies due to potentially heavier work burdens. Full article
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14 pages, 1600 KiB  
Article
Sulfated Nutrition Modifies Nutrient Content and Photosynthetic Pigment Concentration in Cabbage under Salt Stress
by Fresia Pacheco-Sangerman, Fernando Carlos Gómez-Merino, María Guadalupe Peralta-Sánchez and Libia I. Trejo-Téllez
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1337; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101337 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Negative effects of salt stress may be counteracted by adequate management of sulfated nutrition. Herein, we applied 3.50, 4.25, and 5.00 mM SO42− in a nutrient solution to counteract salt stress induced by 75 and 150 mM NaCl in cabbage cv. [...] Read more.
Negative effects of salt stress may be counteracted by adequate management of sulfated nutrition. Herein, we applied 3.50, 4.25, and 5.00 mM SO42− in a nutrient solution to counteract salt stress induced by 75 and 150 mM NaCl in cabbage cv. Royal. The increase in NaCl concentration from 75 to 150 mM reduced the contents of macronutrients and micronutrients in the shoot. When increasing from 3.50 to 4.25 mM SO42−, the contents of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S) in shoots were enhanced, at both concentrations of NaCl. Increasing from 3.50 to 4.25 mM SO42− enhanced iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and sodium (Na) concentrations with 75 mM NaCl. With 150 mM NaCl, the increase from 3.50 to 4.25 mM SO42− enhanced the contents of Cu and Mn, but also those of Na. Chlorophylls a, b, and total decreased as the concentration of SO42− increased in plants treated with 150 mM NaCl. With 75 mM NaCl, carotenoid concentration had a positive relationship with SO42−. Hence, the 4.25 mM SO42− concentration increased the contents of macronutrients and micronutrients in the presence of 75 mM NaCl, while, with 150 mM NaCl, it improved the contents of macronutrients except K. The chlorophyll a/chlorophyll b ratio remained close to 3 when the plants were treated with 5.00 mM SO42−, regardless of NaCl. Similarly, this level of SO42− increased the concentration of carotenoids, which translated into reductions in the total chlorophyll/carotenoid ratios, indicating a protective effect of the photosynthetic apparatus. It is concluded that higher doses of sulfur favor the accumulation of nutrients and increase the concentration of carotenoids under salt stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolism and Stress in Plants)
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32 pages, 6155 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Energy Consumption and Economy of Regional Gas Tri-Supply Composite System
by Mingyu Deng, Yuxi Chen, Jun Lu, Hao Shen, Haibo Yang, Shengyu Li and Jie Yuan
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1390; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051390 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
With the development of Chinese society, there is an increasing demand for emissions reduction and the stable operation of the power grid. Regional comprehensive energy supply systems have entered the public’s view owing to their advantages of reducing capacity, unified dispatch, improving efficiency, [...] Read more.
With the development of Chinese society, there is an increasing demand for emissions reduction and the stable operation of the power grid. Regional comprehensive energy supply systems have entered the public’s view owing to their advantages of reducing capacity, unified dispatch, improving efficiency, and reducing energy consumption. This paper focuses on a system under construction in Chongqing, which adopts a combined gas tri-supply (combined cooling, heat, and power, CCHP) and dynamic ice storage cooling system as the research object. By establishing a mathematical model for the simulation research, this study examines the start–stop priority sequence of the gas tri-supply subsystem and the heat pump subsystem under the ice storage priority strategy in winter and summer and proposes corresponding optimization solutions. By comparing the annual operating energy consumption of the system, we conclude that the gas tri-supply composite system has good economic efficiency and peak-shaving capability, indicating that regional gas tri-supply composite systems have great application potential in the future. The proposed optimized operation strategy and simulated energy consumption calculation provide theoretical guidance for the construction and operation of both this project and similar projects. Full article
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22 pages, 14889 KiB  
Article
Transcriptome and Metabolome Reveal Key Genes from the Plant Hormone Signal Transduction Pathway Regulating Plant Height and Leaf Size in Capsicum baccatum
by Na Xing, Xiaoqi Li, Shuhua Wu and Zhiwei Wang
Cells 2024, 13(10), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13100827 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Plant structure-related agronomic traits like plant height and leaf size are critical for growth, development, and crop yield. Defining the types of genes involved in regulating plant structure size is essential for the molecular-assisted breeding of peppers. This research conducted comparative transcriptome analyses [...] Read more.
Plant structure-related agronomic traits like plant height and leaf size are critical for growth, development, and crop yield. Defining the types of genes involved in regulating plant structure size is essential for the molecular-assisted breeding of peppers. This research conducted comparative transcriptome analyses using Capsicum baccatum germplasm HNUCB0112 and HNUCB0222 and their F2 generation as materials. A total of 6574 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected, which contain 379 differentially expressed transcription factors, mainly including transcription factor families such as TCP, WRKY, AUX/IAA, and MYB. Seven classes of DEGs were annotated in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway, including indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberellin (GA), cytokinin (CK), abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA), ethylene (ET), and salicylic acid (SA). The 26 modules were obtained by WGCNA analysis, and the MEpink module was positively correlated with plant height and leaf size, and hub genes associated with plant height and leaf size were anticipated. Differential genes were verified by qRT-PCR, which was consistent with the RNA-Seq results, demonstrating the accuracy of the sequencing results. These results enhance our understanding of the developmental regulatory networks governing pepper key traits like plant height and leaf size and offer new information for future research on the pepper plant architecture system. Full article
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13 pages, 1366 KiB  
Article
Determining the Association of the Dry Period Duration with Dystocia and Stillbirths in Dairy Cows by Considering Parity, Season, and Gestation Length
by Vigilijus Jukna, Edita Meškinytė, Ramūnas Antanatis, Algimantas Paulauskas and Vida Juozaitienė
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1444; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101444 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the relationship between the length of the dry period (DL) and the risks of dystocia and stillbirths in Holstein cows. A total of 1072 healthy cows in lactations 1 and ≥2 were categorized based on the DL (mean: [...] Read more.
This study aimed to assess the relationship between the length of the dry period (DL) and the risks of dystocia and stillbirths in Holstein cows. A total of 1072 healthy cows in lactations 1 and ≥2 were categorized based on the DL (mean: 58.07 ± 0.33 days) into three groups: short DL (<40 days; 13.0% of cows), medium DL (40–70 days; 60.1%), and long DL (>70 days; 26.9%). Dystocia occurred in 12.4% of cows, while stillbirths accounted for 4.1% of calves. The medium DL group had the highest number of unassisted calvings. The dystocia rates were 11.4% for cows with gestation (GA) ≤ 274 days; 6.0% for cows with GA = 275–282 days; and 19.9% for cows with GA ≥ 283 days (p < 0.001). In season 1 (November–April), dystocia occurred in 15.0% of cases compared to 8.8% in season 2 (May–October) (p < 0.001). The stillbirth rates ranged from 3.6% to 4.0% for cows with medium and long DLs; while those with a short DL had 5.8% (p < 0.05). The stillbirth rates were 5.2% for cows with GA ≤ 274 days; 3.2% for cows with GA = 275–282 days; and 5.1% for cows with GA ≥ 283 days (p < 0.001). Season 1 had a stillbirth rate of 4.8%, while season 2 had a stillbirth rate of 3.3% (p < 0.001). This research provides insights that could assist the dairy industry in making informed decisions to reduce the incidence rates of dystocia and stillbirths in cows. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monitoring of Cows: Management and Sustainability)
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17 pages, 3638 KiB  
Article
Cell-Autonomous and Non-Cell-Autonomous Mechanisms Concomitantly Regulate the Early Developmental Pattern in the Kelp Saccharina latissima Embryo
by Samuel Boscq, Bernard Billoud and Bénédicte Charrier
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1341; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101341 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Brown algae are multicellular organisms that have evolved independently from plants and animals. Knowledge of the mechanisms involved in their embryogenesis is available only for the Fucus, Dictyota, and Ectocarpus, which are brown algae belonging to three different orders. Here, [...] Read more.
Brown algae are multicellular organisms that have evolved independently from plants and animals. Knowledge of the mechanisms involved in their embryogenesis is available only for the Fucus, Dictyota, and Ectocarpus, which are brown algae belonging to three different orders. Here, we address the control of cell growth and cell division orientation in the embryo of Saccharina latissima, a brown alga belonging to the order Laminariales, which grows as a stack of cells through transverse cell divisions until growth is initiated along the perpendicular axis. Using laser ablation, we show that apical and basal cells have different functions in the embryogenesis of this alga, with the apical cell being involved mainly in growth and basal cells controlling the orientation of cell division by inhibiting longitudinal cell division and thereby the widening of the embryo. These functions were observed in the very early development before the embryo reached the 8-cell stage. In addition, the growth of the apical and basal regions appears to be cell-autonomous, because there was no compensation for the loss of a significant part of the embryo upon laser ablation, resulting in smaller and less elongated embryos compared with intact embryos. In contrast, the orientation of cell division in the apical region of the embryo appears to be controlled by the basal cell only, which suggests a polarised, non-cell-autonomous mechanism. Altogether, our results shed light on the early mechanisms of growth rate and growth orientation at the onset of the embryogenesis of Saccharina, in which non-cell-specific cell-autonomous and cell-specific non-cell-autonomous processes are involved. This complex control differs from the mechanisms described in the other brown algal embryos, in which the establishment of embryo polarity depends on environmental cues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Topics in Macroalgal Research)
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18 pages, 1127 KiB  
Review
Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen Positron Emission Tomography Oncological Applications beyond Prostate Cancer in Comparison to Other Radiopharmaceuticals
by Alberto Miceli, Virginia Liberini, Giovanna Pepe, Francesco Dondi, Antonio Vento, Lorenzo Jonghi Lavarini, Greta Celesti, Maria Gazzilli, Francesca Serani, Priscilla Guglielmo, Ambra Buschiazzo, Rossella Filice, Pierpaolo Alongi, Riccardo Laudicella and Giulia Santo
Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14101002 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein overexpressed on the surface of tumor cells in most of the patients affected by prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa). However, PSMA expression has also been demonstrated in the endothelial cells of newly formed vessels [...] Read more.
Background: Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein overexpressed on the surface of tumor cells in most of the patients affected by prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa). However, PSMA expression has also been demonstrated in the endothelial cells of newly formed vessels of various solid tumors, suggesting a role for PSMA in neoangiogenesis. In this scenario, gallium-68 (68Ga) or fluoro-18 (18F)-labeled PSMA positron emission tomography (PET) may play a role in tumors other than PCa, generally evaluated employing other radiopharmaceuticals targeting different pathways. This review aims to investigate the detection rate of PSMA-PET compared to other radiopharmaceuticals (especially [18F]FDG) in non-prostate tumors to identify patients who may benefit from the use of such a theragnostic agent. Methods: We performed a bibliographic search on three different databases until February 2024 using the following terms: “positron emission tomography”, “PET”, “PET/CT”, “Prostate-specific membrane antigen”, “PSMA”, “non-prostate”, “not prostate cancer”, “solid tumor”, “FDG”, “Fluorodeoxyglucose”, “FAPi”, “FET”, “MET”, “DOPA”, “choline”, “FCH”, “FES”, “DOTATOC”, “DOTANOC”, and “DOTATATE”. Only original articles edited in English with at least 10 patients were included. Results: Out of a total of 120 articles, only 25 original articles comparing PSMA with other radiotracers were included in this study. The main evidence was demonstrated in renal cell carcinoma, where PSMA showed a higher detection rate compared to [18F]FDG PET/CT, with implications for patient management. PSMA PET may also improve the assessment of other entities, such as gliomas, in defining regions of early neoangiogenesis. Further data are needed to evaluate the potential role of PSMA-PET in triple-negative breast cancer as a novel therapeutic vascular target. Finally, unclear applications of PSMA-PET include thyroid and gastrointestinal tumors. Conclusions: The present review shows the potential use of PSMA-labeled PET/CT in solid tumors beyond PCa, underlining its value over other radiopharmaceuticals (mainly [18F]FDG). Prospective clinical trials with larger sample sizes are crucial to further investigate these possible clinical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Use of PSMA in Nuclear Medicine beyond Prostate Cancer)
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20 pages, 2759 KiB  
Article
Excessive Eutrophication as a Chemical Barrier for Fish Fauna Dispersion: A Case Study in the Emblematic Tietê River (São Paulo, Brazil)
by Bruna Urbanski and Marcos Nogueira
Water 2024, 16(10), 1383; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101383 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The Tietê River receives most of the effluents and diffuse wastes from the São Paulo metropolis (21.9 million inhabitants). The study aimed to assess the extent to which environmental changes affected the fish fauna. We compared, in rainy and dry seasons, three sites [...] Read more.
The Tietê River receives most of the effluents and diffuse wastes from the São Paulo metropolis (21.9 million inhabitants). The study aimed to assess the extent to which environmental changes affected the fish fauna. We compared, in rainy and dry seasons, three sites in Tietê and three in tributaries with much better water quality conditions. No physical barriers exist between the sites. Fish were sampled with gillnets (exposed overnight) and the assemblage’s ecological attributes calculated. Water depth, transparency, temperature, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, total dissolved solids, pH, redox potential, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and chlorophyll were simultaneously determined. Low oxygen concentrations (near zero in the rainy period), and the opposite for nutrients and total solids, separated the predominantly hypereutrophic Tietê from the tributaries (PCA). Differences in the fish assemblages were also evidenced (nMDS), including a higher richness per sample in tributaries (11 to 14 spp.) compared to Tietê (3 to 4 spp.). Siluriformes with accessory breathing dominated in Tietê and the highly tolerant detritivorous Prochilodus lineatus (the main commercial fish) was the only species found in all sites. The species correlated positively with oxygen in the tributaries and with turbidity, redox potential, and nutrients in Tietê (DistLM) (rainy season). Recovery measures are urgently required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Ecosystems: Biodiversity and Conservation)
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3 pages, 457 KiB  
Editorial
Molecular Insights into Macromolecules Structure, Function, and Regulation
by Zhiwei Yang and Jiasheng Zhao
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5296; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105296 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Macromolecules exhibit ordered structures and complex functions in an aqueous environment with strong thermodynamic fluctuations [...] Full article
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24 pages, 1239 KiB  
Review
Soft vs. Hard Sustainability Approach in Marine Spatial Planning: Challenges and Solutions
by Fatemeh Rezaei, Pasquale Contestabile, Diego Vicinanza, Arianna Azzellino, Carlos V. C. Weiss and José Juanes
Water 2024, 16(10), 1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101382 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Hitherto, over 50% of countries with marine waters have established MSPs or launched related legal actions. However, there are still conceptual and practical challenges to be overcome in the development of MSP. In this study, we investigate two main approaches in MSP (hard [...] Read more.
Hitherto, over 50% of countries with marine waters have established MSPs or launched related legal actions. However, there are still conceptual and practical challenges to be overcome in the development of MSP. In this study, we investigate two main approaches in MSP (hard vs. soft sustainability) through reports, published manuscripts and meeting proceedings in seven pioneering countries (Belgium, Netherlands, Norway, Germany, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada). We highlight the gaps, challenges, and solutions in each of these approaches. From our findings, there are four common challenges in both soft and hard sustainability approaches as follows: (i) the political framework and inconsistent support of MSP efforts, (ii) insufficient knowledge on social dimensions, (iii) insufficient stakeholder engagement in the diversity of stakeholder’s groups or in their contribution to the planning process from the initial steps, and (iv) finding a balance between environmental conservation and economic growth. We recommend that future studies should investigate how MSP can become more adaptive to long-term environmental and economic targets, how effective involving socioeconomic strata is in MSP, and how decision-making tools could help to cover the gaps in MSP. Furthermore, public forums are suggested to be developed to facilitate the systematic sharing of MSP experiences worldwide. Full article
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16 pages, 4418 KiB  
Review
Based on CiteSpace Insights into Illicium verum Hook. f. Current Hotspots and Emerging Trends and China Resources Distribution
by Zhoujian He, Jie Huan, Meng Ye, Dan Liang, Yongfei Wu, Wenjun Li, Xiao Gong and Liqiong Jiang
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1510; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101510 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Illicium verum Hook. f. is a globally significant spice, which is recognized in China as a food-medicine homolog and extensively utilized across the pharmaceutical, food, and spice industries. China boasts the world’s leading resources of I. verum, yet its comprehensive utilization remains [...] Read more.
Illicium verum Hook. f. is a globally significant spice, which is recognized in China as a food-medicine homolog and extensively utilized across the pharmaceutical, food, and spice industries. China boasts the world’s leading resources of I. verum, yet its comprehensive utilization remains relatively underexplored. Through a resource survey of I. verum and the application of bibliometric visualization using CiteSpace, this study analyzed 324 papers published in the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) from 1962 to 2023 and 353 core documents from China’s three major databases (CNKI, Wanfang Database, and VIP Database). I. verum from Guangxi province towards various southern provinces in China, with autumn fruits exhibited superior quality and market value over their spring fruits. Literature in WOSCC emerged earlier, with a research emphasis on food science technology and pharmacology pharmacy domains. WOSCC research on I. verum could be divided into two phases: an embryonic period (1962–2001) and a growth period (2002–2023), showing an overall upward trend in publication. The three major Chinese databases contain a larger number of publications, with a focus on the food sector, which could be categorized into three stages: an embryonic period (1990–1999), a growth period (2000–2010), and a stable period (2011–2023), with an overall downward trend in publication. Both Chinese and international research hotspots converge on the medical applications of I. verum, with antioxidant bioactivity research emerging as a prevailing trend. This study delineated the resource distribution of I. verum across China and identified the research hotspots and trends both in China and internationally. The findings are beneficial for guiding researchers in swiftly establishing their research focus and furnishing decision-makers with a comprehensive reference for industry information. Full article
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20 pages, 1932 KiB  
Review
The Transformative Role of 3D Culture Models in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Research
by Xavier S. Bittman-Soto, Evelyn S. Thomas, Madeline E. Ganshert, Laura L. Mendez-Santacruz and J. Chuck Harrell
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1859; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101859 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Advancements in cell culturing techniques have allowed the development of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models sourced directly from patients’ tissues and tumors, faithfully replicating the native tissue environment. These models provide a more clinically relevant platform for studying disease progression and treatment responses [...] Read more.
Advancements in cell culturing techniques have allowed the development of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models sourced directly from patients’ tissues and tumors, faithfully replicating the native tissue environment. These models provide a more clinically relevant platform for studying disease progression and treatment responses compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) models. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) and patient-derived xenograft organoids (PDXOs) emerge as innovative 3D cancer models capable of accurately mimicking the tumor’s unique features, enhancing our understanding of tumor complexities, and predicting clinical outcomes. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) poses significant clinical challenges due to its aggressive nature, propensity for early metastasis, and limited treatment options. TNBC PDOs and PDXOs have significantly contributed to the comprehension of TNBC, providing novel insights into its underlying mechanism and identifying potential therapeutic targets. This review explores the transformative role of various 3D cancer models in elucidating TNBC pathogenesis and guiding novel therapeutic strategies. It also provides an overview of diverse 3D cell culture models, derived from cell lines and tumors, highlighting their advantages and culturing challenges. Finally, it delves into live-cell imaging techniques, endpoint assays, and alternative cell culture media and methodologies, such as scaffold-free and scaffold-based systems, essential for advancing 3D cancer model research and development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer)
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13 pages, 10169 KiB  
Article
A Rapid Construction Method for High-Throughput Wheat Grain Instance Segmentation Dataset Using High-Resolution Images
by Qi Gao, Heng Li, Tianyue Meng, Xinyuan Xu, Tinghui Sun, Liping Yin and Xinyu Chai
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051032 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Deep learning models can enhance the detection efficiency and accuracy of rapid on-site screening for imported grains at customs, satisfying the need for high-throughput, efficient, and intelligent operations. However, the construction of datasets, which is crucial for deep learning models, often involves significant [...] Read more.
Deep learning models can enhance the detection efficiency and accuracy of rapid on-site screening for imported grains at customs, satisfying the need for high-throughput, efficient, and intelligent operations. However, the construction of datasets, which is crucial for deep learning models, often involves significant labor and time costs. Addressing the challenges associated with establishing high-resolution instance segmentation datasets for small objects, we integrate two zero-shot models, Grounding DINO and Segment Anything model, into a dataset annotation pipeline. Furthermore, we encapsulate this pipeline into a software tool for manual calibration of mislabeled, missing, and duplicated annotations made by the models. Additionally, we propose preprocessing and postprocessing methods to improve the detection accuracy of the model and reduce the cost of subsequent manual correction. This solution is not only applicable to rapid screening for quarantine weeds, seeds, and insects at customs but can also be extended to other fields where instance segmentation is required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue In-Field Detection and Monitoring Technology in Precision Agriculture)
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20 pages, 5908 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Synergy between Humic Acid Substances, Dehydrogenase Activity and Soil Fertility
by Katarzyna Kagan, Weronika Goraj, Agnieszka Kuźniar, Anna Kruczyńska, Anna Sochaczewska, Andrzej Słomczewski and Agnieszka Wolińska
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051031 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The European Commission’s “Farm to Folk” (F2F) strategy recommends reducing fertilizers by at least 20% by 2030. In this aspect, the main goal of our study was to verify whether a 20 and even 40% reduction in nitrogen (N) fertilization rate would be [...] Read more.
The European Commission’s “Farm to Folk” (F2F) strategy recommends reducing fertilizers by at least 20% by 2030. In this aspect, the main goal of our study was to verify whether a 20 and even 40% reduction in nitrogen (N) fertilization rate would be sufficient to maintain soil fertility (expressed as dehydrogenase activity—DHA, humic acid substances—HA substances, E4/E6 ratio), and yields of wheat and rapeseed cultivated in strip-till technology. Two fields (10 ha each) were established for wheat and rapeseed cultivation, and soils (0–20 cm) were sampled before sowing and after harvesting. It was found that a 20% fertilization reduction does not adversely affect the biological activity expressed by DHA. Nevertheless, the reduction in nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates led to a slight decrease in the E4/E6 ratio, which could serve as a potential indicator of fertilization reduction. DHA, E4/E6 ratio and content of HA substances were also dependent on the crop. Following harvesting, both rapeseed and wheat exhibited a positive correlation between the E4/E6 ratio and the degree of fertilization rate (FR), as well as yield. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Cycling and Environmental Effects on Farmland Ecosystems)
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23 pages, 1599 KiB  
Article
Performance Evaluation of Carbon-Neutral Cities Based on Fuzzy AHP and HFS-VIKOR
by Chun-Ming Yang, Shiyao Li, Ding-Xuan Huang and Wei Lo
Systems 2024, 12(5), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems12050173 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Climate change threatens human survival and development. Cities, as the main gathering places for human production and life, serve as the focal points for the implementation of the policies related to energy efficiency, energy transition, and environmental protection. This study constructs an index [...] Read more.
Climate change threatens human survival and development. Cities, as the main gathering places for human production and life, serve as the focal points for the implementation of the policies related to energy efficiency, energy transition, and environmental protection. This study constructs an index system for the evaluation of carbon-neutral cities from the perspectives of carbon sources and carbon sinks. The system includes thirteen indicators under six dimensions. It combines objective and subjective data (i.e., statistical data and expert evaluations) by integrating two approaches: the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (fuzzy AHP) and vise kriterijumska optimizacija i kompromisno resenje with hesitant fuzzy sets (HFS-VIKOR). We verify the efficacy of the proposed approach through a case study of thirteen low-carbon pilot cities in China. The results indicate that among these cities, Shenzhen performs the best, followed by Guangzhou and Hangzhou, while Kunming, Baoding, and Tianjin show poor performance in terms of carbon neutrality. Kunming and Baoding exhibit shortcomings mainly in carbon sources, while Tianjin faces deficiencies in both carbon sources and carbon sinks. Sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis show the availability and effectiveness of the proposed method. The proposed radar chart further highlights the improvement directions for each city to achieve carbon neutrality. Full article
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21 pages, 28192 KiB  
Article
Spatio-Temporal Evolution and Multi-Scenario Simulation of Non-Grain Production on Cultivated Land in Jiangsu Province, China
by Chengge Jiang, Lingzhi Wang, Wenhua Guo, Huiling Chen, Anqi Liang, Mingying Sun, Xinyao Li and Hichem Omrani
Land 2024, 13(5), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050670 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Cultivated land plays a crucial role as the basis of grain production, and it is essential to effectively manage the unregulated expansion of non-grain production (NGP) on cultivated land in order to safeguard food security. The study of NGP has garnered significant attention [...] Read more.
Cultivated land plays a crucial role as the basis of grain production, and it is essential to effectively manage the unregulated expansion of non-grain production (NGP) on cultivated land in order to safeguard food security. The study of NGP has garnered significant attention from scholars, but the prediction of NGP trends is relatively uncommon. Therefore, we focused on Jiangsu Province, a significant grain production region in China, as the study area. We extracted data on cultivated land for non-grain production (NGPCL) in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2019, and calculated the ratio of non-grain production (NGPR) for each county unit in the province. On this basis, Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and spatial autocorrelation analysis tools were utilized to uncover the spatio-temporal evolution of NGP in Jiangsu Province. Finally, the Patch-Generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model was utilized to predict the trend of NGP in Jiangsu Province in 2038 under the three development scenarios of natural development (NDS), cultivated land protection (CPS), and food security (FSS). After analyzing the results, we came to the following conclusions:(1) During the period of 2000–2019, the NGPCL area and NGPR in Jiangsu Province exhibited a general decreasing trend. (2) The level of NGP displayed a spatial distribution pattern of being “higher in the south and central and lower in the north”. (3) The results of multi-scenario simulation show that under the NDS, the area of NGPCL and cultivated land for grain production (GPCL) decreases significantly; under the CPS, the decrease in NGPCL and GPCL is smaller than that of the NDS. Under the FSS, NGPCL decreases, while GPCL increases. These results can provide reference for the implementation of land use planning, the delineation of the cultivated land protection bottom line, and the implementation of thee cultivated land use control system in the study area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Socio-Economic Values in Land Resource Management)
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13 pages, 2637 KiB  
Article
Effects of Antheraea pernyi on Parasitization of Kriechbaumerella dendrolimi by Using Immunology and Metabolomics
by Yuwen Que, Xinyuan Fang, Zhenhui Zhao, Zhenhong Chen, Ciding Lu, Qiufang Zheng, Jiajin Tan, Feiping Zhang and Guanghong Liang
Forests 2024, 15(5), 851; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050851 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Kriechbaumerella dendrolimi (Hymenoptera, Chalcididae) is a dominant pupal parasitoid species of various significant pine caterpillars, including Dendrolimus houi Lajonquiere (Lepidoptera, Lasiocampidae), with great potential for utilization. So far, the mass rearing of K. dendrolimi has been successfully established using Antheraea pernyi (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae) [...] Read more.
Kriechbaumerella dendrolimi (Hymenoptera, Chalcididae) is a dominant pupal parasitoid species of various significant pine caterpillars, including Dendrolimus houi Lajonquiere (Lepidoptera, Lasiocampidae), with great potential for utilization. So far, the mass rearing of K. dendrolimi has been successfully established using Antheraea pernyi (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae) pupae as alternative hosts and released in the forest to suppress D. houi populations. However, the outcome is still expected to be improved due to lower parasitism rates, which might be related to the autonomous immune function of A. pernyi pupae. In our study, we investigated the effects of K. dendrolimi parasitization on the immune responses of A. pernyi pupae by measuring the expression of key immune factors: superoxide dismutase (SOD), polyphenol oxidases (PPOs), Attacin, Lysozymes (LYSs), and serine proteases (PRSSs). Our results show that parasitization significantly upregulated these immune factors, with distinct temporal patterns observable between 4 and 48 h post-parasitization. This upregulation highlights a robust immune response, adapting over time to the parasitic challenge. These findings suggest that specific immune mechanisms in A. pernyi pupae are activated in response to K. dendrolimi, shedding light on potential targets for enhancing host resistance. Metabolomic analyses complemented these findings by illustrating the broader metabolic shifts associated with the immune response. Specifically, Attacin was significantly upregulated twice, hypothesizing that the parasitoid’s venom contains at least two parasitic factors. Metabolomics analysis revealed a significant metabolite difference within parasitized A. pernyi pupae. The highest number of differential expression metabolites (DEMs) was observed at 16 h post-parasitism (1184 metabolites), with fewer DEMs at 8 h (568 metabolites) and 32 h (693 metabolites), suggesting a close relationship between parasitism duration and the number of DEMs. These fluctuations reflected the fundamental process of immune interaction. KEGG enrichment results showed that the DEMs were mainly enriched in energy metabolism and immune-related pathways, indicating that parasitism is a process of continuous consumption and immune interaction in the host. These DEMs could also become future targets for regulating the immune functions of A. pernyi pupae and could provide reference data for optimizing mass-rearing techniques. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biological Control of Forest Diseases and Pests)
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