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12 pages, 491 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Use of Dietary Supplements and Influencing Factors in Children

by Orkut Koç, Merve Tosyalı, Şule Gökçe and Feyza Koç

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060734 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, the use of dietary supplements has increased in all age groups. Parents may also use these supplements for their children for different reasons. This study aims to determine the use of dietary supplements by children, the factors affecting this [...] Read more.

Introduction: In recent years, the use of dietary supplements has increased in all age groups. Parents may also use these supplements for their children for different reasons. This study aims to determine the use of dietary supplements by children, the factors affecting this use, and the attitudes of parents about these products. Methods: A total of 1038 children aged 2–18 years without any chronic disease who presented to the pediatric outpatient clinics of Ege University Children’s Hospital were included in this study. Parents (n = 1000) who agreed to participate in the study were interviewed face-to-face, and a comprehensive questionnaire including questions about children’s use of dietary supplements, sociodemographic characteristics, and parents’ attitudes towards dietary supplements was administered. Analyses were performed with SPSS 25.0. Results: The mean age of the children included in our study was 8.6 ± 4.8 years, and 51% (n = 510) were male. It was found that 32.5% of the children used nutritional supplements, and vitamin–mineral preparations (23.2%) were the most frequently used. Omega-3 (19.3%) and immune support products (9.4%) were the second and third most frequently used supplements, respectively. A significant relationship was found between the use of dietary supplements and the child’s age, body weight, body mass index, parents’ educational level, being health worker, and economic status (p < 0.05). It was found that most of the families thought that vitamin–mineral and omega-3 products were beneficial for growth and development and that they received information from doctors most frequently before taking these products. However, it was found that families followed the media as the second most frequent source of information for these products. Conclusions: Approximately one-third of the children in our study use dietary supplements. It is very important to raise awareness among families about the use of these products when necessary and with the recommendation of a physician. To prevent families from using dietary supplements that are not necessary for their children, especially due to misinformation in the media, pediatricians should provide correct information to parents about these products at every clinic visit. A concerted effort is needed from policy makers, media organizations, and health care providers to guide the safe use of DS. The results obtained from this study will shed light on future randomized controlled prospective studies. Full article

16 pages, 742 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of Effects on Performances and Emissions of a Large Marine Diesel Engine Partially Fuelled with Biodiesel B20 and Methanol

by Nicolae Adrian Visan, Dan Catalin Niculescu, Radu Ionescu, Ernst Dahlin, Magnus Eriksson and Radu Chiriac

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(6), 952; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12060952 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

The impact of fossil fuel utilisation in different combustion systems on climate change due to greenhouse gas accumulation in the atmosphere is rather evident. A part of these gases comes from the large engines used for propulsion in marine applications. In the continuous [...] Read more.

The impact of fossil fuel utilisation in different combustion systems on climate change due to greenhouse gas accumulation in the atmosphere is rather evident. A part of these gases comes from the large engines used for propulsion in marine applications. In the continuous global effort made by engine manufacturers to mitigate this negative impact, one way is represented by the utilisation of alternative fuels such as biodiesel and methanol, based on dedicated research to fulfil the more stringent regulations concerning pollutant emissions issued by piston heat engines. In this study, a numerical investigation was conducted on a four-stroke large marine diesel engine (ALCO 16V 251C) at several engine speeds and full load conditions. Different blends of diesel–methanol and biodiesel B20–methanol with methanol mass fractions of 10% and 20% were considered for theoretical analysis in two techniques of methanol supply: direct injection mode of a blend of base fuel diesel/biodiesel B20 with methanol and injection of methanol after the intercooler, and direct injection of the base fuel. The results show that, if 10% in power loss can be acceptable, then for diesel–methanol 10%, in the direct injection technology, the NOx emission can be reduced up to 19%, but with a compromise of an 8% increase in SOOT emission, while for biodiesel B20–methanol 10%, with the same direct injection method, the NOx emissions increase by up to 58% with the benefit of reducing SOOT by up to 23% relative to the original diesel fuel operation. For a 20% methanol fraction in blend fuel, the drop in power is more than 10% regardless of the method of methanol supply and the base fuel, diesel, or B20 used. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies for New (Clean) Energy Ships)

10 pages, 597 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lung Cancer and Air Quality in a Large Urban County in the United States

by Hollis Hutchings, Qiong Zhang, Sue C. Grady, Jessica Cox, Andrew Popoff, Carl P. Wilson, Shangrui Zhu and Ikenna Okereke

Cancers 2024, 16(11), 2146; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16112146 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Lung cancer is the leading cancer-related killer in the United States. The incidence varies geographically and may be affected by environmental pollutants. Our goal was to determine associations within time series for specific air pollutants and lung cancer cases over a 33-year period [...] Read more.

Lung cancer is the leading cancer-related killer in the United States. The incidence varies geographically and may be affected by environmental pollutants. Our goal was to determine associations within time series for specific air pollutants and lung cancer cases over a 33-year period in Wayne County, Michigan, controlling for population change. Lung cancer data for Wayne County were queried from the Michigan Cancer Registry from 1985 to 2018. Air pollutant data were obtained from the United States Environmental Protection Agency from 1980 to 2018. Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models were estimated to investigate time lags in years between specific air pollution levels and lung cancer development. A total of 58,866 cases of lung cancer were identified. The mean age was 67.8 years. Females accounted for 53 percent of all cases in 2018 compared to 44 percent in 1985. Three major clusters of lung cancer incidence were detected with the most intense clusters in downtown Detroit and the heavily industrialized downriver area. Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) had the strongest statistically significant relationship with lung cancer, showing both short- and long-term effects (lag range, 1–15 years). Particulate matter (PM_2.5) (lag range, 1–3 years) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) (lag range, 2–4 years) had more immediate effects on lung cancer development compared to carbon monoxide (CO) (lag range, 5–6 years), hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) (lag range, 9 years) and lead (Pb) (lag range, 10–12 years), which had more long-term effects on lung cancer development. Areas with poor air quality may benefit from targeted interventions for lung cancer screening and reductions in environmental pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Data and Statistics)

22 pages, 1798 KiB

Open AccessReview

Potential Role of Phytochemicals as Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor (GLP-1R) Agonists in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus

by Julianah Ore Abiola, Ayoola Abidemi Oluyemi, Olajumoke Tolulope Idowu, Oluwatoyin Mary Oyinloye, Chukwudi Sunday Ubah, Olutunmise Victoria Owolabi, Oluwatobi T. Somade, Sunday Amos Onikanni, Basiru Olaitan Ajiboye, Foluso Oluwagbemiga Osunsanmi, Oyekanmi Nash, Olaposi Idowu Omotuyi and Babatunji Emmanuel Oyinloye

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 736; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060736 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Currently, there is no known cure for diabetes. Different pharmaceutical therapies have been approved for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), some are in clinical trials and they have been classified according to their route or mechanism of action. Insulin types, [...] Read more.

Currently, there is no known cure for diabetes. Different pharmaceutical therapies have been approved for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), some are in clinical trials and they have been classified according to their route or mechanism of action. Insulin types, sulfonylureas, biguanides, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, meglitinides, sodium–glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors, and incretin-dependent therapies (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists: GLP-1R, and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors: DPP-4). Although some of the currently available drugs are effective in the management of T2DM, the side effects resulting from prolonged use of these drugs remain a serious challenge. GLP-1R agonists are currently the preferred medications to include when oral metformin alone is insufficient to manage T2DM. Medicinal plants now play prominent roles in the management of various diseases globally because they are readily available and affordable as well as having limited and transient side effects. Recently, studies have reported the ability of phytochemicals to activate glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), acting as an agonist just like the GLP-1R agonist with beneficial effects in the management of T2DM. Consequently, we propose that careful exploration of phytochemicals for the development of novel therapeutic candidates as GLP-1R agonists will be a welcome breakthrough in the management of T2DM and the co-morbidities associated with T2DM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Effects of Natural Products and Their Clinical Research)

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21 pages, 8953 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Index Used to Evaluate the Applicability of Mid-to-Long-Term Runoff Prediction in a Basin Based on Mutual Information

by Shuai Xie, Zhilong Xiang, Yongqiang Wang, Biqiong Wu, Keyan Shen and Jin Wang

Water 2024, 16(11), 1619; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16111619 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Accurate and reliable mid-to-long-term runoff prediction (MLTRP) is of great importance in water resource management. However, the MLTRP is not suitable in each basin, and how to evaluate the applicability of MLTRP is still a question. Therefore, the total mutual information (TMI) index [...] Read more.

Accurate and reliable mid-to-long-term runoff prediction (MLTRP) is of great importance in water resource management. However, the MLTRP is not suitable in each basin, and how to evaluate the applicability of MLTRP is still a question. Therefore, the total mutual information (TMI) index is developed in this study based on the predictor selection method using mutual information (MI) and partial MI (PMI). The relationship between the TMI and the predictive performance of five AI models is analyzed by applying five models to 222 forecasting scenarios in Australia. This results in over 222 forecasting scenarios which demonstrate that, compared with the MI, the developed TMI index can better represent the available information in the predictors and has a more significant negative correlation with the RRMSE, with a correlation coefficient between −0.62 and −0.85. This means that the model’s predictive performance will become better along with the increase in TMI, and therefore, the developed TMI index can be used to evaluate the applicability of MLTRP. When the TMI is more than 0.1, the available information in the predictors can support the construction of MLTRP models. In addition, the TMI can be used to partly explain the differences in predictive performance among five models. In general, the complex models, which can better utilize the contained information, are more sensitive to the TMI and have more significant improvement in terms of predictive performance along with the increase in TMI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Big Data and Deep Learning in Hydrological Modelling, Flood and Drought Monitoring)

21 pages, 1066 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on a Three-Stage Dynamic Reactive Power Optimization Decoupling Strategy for Active Distribution Networks with Carbon Emissions

by Yuezhong Wu, Yujie Xiong, Xiaowei Peng, Cheng Cai and Xiangming Zheng

Energies 2024, 17(11), 2774; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112774 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

The reactive power optimization of an active distribution network can effectively deal with the problem of voltage overflows at some nodes caused by the integration of a high proportion of distributed sources into the distribution network. Aiming to address the limitations in previous [...] Read more.

The reactive power optimization of an active distribution network can effectively deal with the problem of voltage overflows at some nodes caused by the integration of a high proportion of distributed sources into the distribution network. Aiming to address the limitations in previous studies of dynamic reactive power optimization using the cluster partitioning method, a three-stage dynamic reactive power optimization decoupling strategy for active distribution networks considering carbon emissions is proposed in this paper. First, a carbon emission index is proposed based on the carbon emission intensity, and a dynamic reactive power optimization mathematical model of an active distribution network is established with the minimum active power network loss, voltage deviation, and carbon emissions as the satisfaction objective functions. Second, in order to satisfy the requirement for the all-day motion times of discrete devices, a three-stage dynamic reactive power optimization decoupling strategy based on the partitioning around a medoids clustering algorithm is proposed. Finally, taking the improved IEEE33 and PG&E69-node distribution network systems as examples, the proposed linear decreasing mutation particle swarm optimization algorithm was used to solve the mathematical model. The results show that all the indicators of the proposed strategy and algorithm throughout the day are lower than those of other methods, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed strategy and algorithm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section A1: Smart Grids and Microgrids)

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24 pages, 806 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recent Trends in the Pre-Drying, Drying, and Post-Drying Processes for Cassava Tuber: A Review

by Ellyas Alga Nainggolan, Jan Banout and Klara Urbanova

Foods 2024, 13(11), 1778; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13111778 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Cassava tuber is an essential staple crop in tropical regions with versatile applications in the food, feed, and industrial sectors. However, its high moisture content and perishable nature necessitate efficient preservation methods to extend its shelf life and enhance its value. Pre-drying, drying, [...] Read more.

Cassava tuber is an essential staple crop in tropical regions with versatile applications in the food, feed, and industrial sectors. However, its high moisture content and perishable nature necessitate efficient preservation methods to extend its shelf life and enhance its value. Pre-drying, drying, and post-drying processes play pivotal roles in maintaining the quality and usability of cassava products. This review comprehensively examines the current status and future directions in the pre-drying, drying, and post-drying processes of cassava tuber. Various pre-drying or pretreatment methods and drying techniques are evaluated for their impacts on drying kinetics and product quality. Additionally, challenges and limitations in achieving high-quality processing of cassava flour are identified. Future directions in cassava drying methods emphasize the integration of combined pre-drying and drying techniques to optimize resource utilization and processing efficiency. Furthermore, the adoption of advanced online measurement and control technologies in drying equipment is highlighted for real-time monitoring and optimization of drying parameters. The importance of optimizing existing processes to establish a comprehensive cassava industrial chain and foster the development of the cassava deep-processing industry is emphasized. This review provides valuable insights into the current trends and future prospects in cassava drying technologies, aiming to facilitate sustainable and efficient utilization of cassava resources for various applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Food Processing Technologies: Drying, Extrusion and Thermal Processing)

15 pages, 551 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Method for Delineating the Formula Limit of the Continental Shelf under the Maximum Area Principle Constraint

by Tian Xie, Jian Dong, Lulu Tang, Mengkai Ma and Dong Wang

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(6), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12060949 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

In current practices of determining continental shelf area, the measured sediment thickness data do not effectively reflect the distribution of sediments across the area due to its dispersed nature. This issue raises potential limitations in unknown optimal survey line layout strategies for maximizing [...] Read more.

In current practices of determining continental shelf area, the measured sediment thickness data do not effectively reflect the distribution of sediments across the area due to its dispersed nature. This issue raises potential limitations in unknown optimal survey line layout strategies for maximizing the posterior determination area. This paper adopts the binary search algorithm, relies on existing sediment thickness grid data, and uses geodetic formulas to build an ellipsoidal surface grid distance calculation model. This model quickly screens potential areas for the 1% sediment thickness line candidate points set. By constraining the azimuth parameter values during the construction process of the ellipsoidal point feature buffer zones, efficiently select the candidate points set for the 1% sediment thickness line. Furthermore, by elucidating the essential meanings of points on the formula limit and combining the candidate points set of the foot of the continental slope (FOS)+60 n mile line, the polygon minimal convex hull construction technique and a baseline points optimization algorithm with a length threshold are used to efficiently select points on formula limit. Experimental results demonstrate that this method can effectively assist coastal states in optimizing the determination of continental shelf area to the fullest extent under the length threshold requirements of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Experiments have proven that compared to the traditional intersection method, the method presented in this paper can help coastal countries delineate a larger continental shelf area. In typical application scenarios, the gain in area can reach 77,278,427 m² accounting for 0.51% of the total area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Geological Oceanography)

23 pages, 477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Searching Questions and Learning Problems in Large Problem Banks: Constructing Tests and Assignments on the Fly

by Oleg Sychev

Computers 2024, 13(6), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/computers13060144 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Modern advances in creating shared banks of learning problems and automatic question and problem generation have led to the creation of large question banks in which human teachers cannot view every question. These questions are classified according to the knowledge necessary to solve [...] Read more.

Modern advances in creating shared banks of learning problems and automatic question and problem generation have led to the creation of large question banks in which human teachers cannot view every question. These questions are classified according to the knowledge necessary to solve them and the question difficulties. Constructing tests and assignments on the fly at the teacher’s request eliminates the possibility of cheating by sharing solutions because each student receives a unique set of questions. However, the random generation of predictable and effective assignments from a set of problems is a non-trivial task. In this article, an algorithm for generating assignments based on teachers’ requests for their content is proposed. The algorithm is evaluated on a bank of expression-evaluation questions containing more than 5000 questions. The evaluation shows that the proposed algorithm can guarantee the minimum expected number of target concepts (rules) in an exercise with any settings. The available bank and exercise difficulty chiefly determine the difficulty of the found questions. It almost does not depend on the number of target concepts per item in the exercise: teaching more rules is achieved by rotating them among the exercise items on lower difficulty settings. An ablation study show that all the principal components of the algorithm contribute to its performance. The proposed algorithm can be used to reliably generate individual exercises from large, automatically generated question banks according to teachers’ requests, which is important in massive open online courses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Trends in Computer Programming Education)

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13 pages, 871 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Variation among the Partial Gene Sequences of the Ribosomal Protein Large-Two, the Internal Transcribed Spacer, and the Small Ribosomal Subunit of Blastocystis sp. from Human Fecal Samples

by Guiehdani Villalobos, Eduardo Lopez-Escamilla, Angelica Olivo-Diaz, Mirza Romero-Valdovinos, Arony Martinez, Pablo Maravilla and Fernando Martinez-Hernandez

Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061152 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

In the present study, we compared the genetic variability of fragments from the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) and the small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSUrDNA) as nuclear markers, in contrast with the ribosomal protein large two (rpl2) loci, placed in [...] Read more.

In the present study, we compared the genetic variability of fragments from the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) and the small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSUrDNA) as nuclear markers, in contrast with the ribosomal protein large two (rpl2) loci, placed in the mitochondrion-related organelles (MROs) within and among human fecal samples with Blastocystis. Samples were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequencing, phylogenies, and genetics of population structure analyses were performed. In total, 96 sequences were analyzed, i.e., 33 of SSUrDNA, 35 of rpl2, and 28 of ITS. Only three subtypes (STs) were identified, i.e., ST1 (11.4%), ST2 (28.6%), and ST3 (60%); in all cases, kappa indexes were 1, meaning a perfect agreement among ST assignations. The topologies of phylogenetic inferences were similar among them, clustering to each ST in its specific cluster; discrepancies between phylogeny and assignment of STs were not observed. The STRUCTURE v2.3.4 software assigned three subpopulations corresponding to the STs 1–3, respectively. The population indices were consistent with those previously reported by other groups. Our results suggest the potential use of the ITS and rpl2 genes as molecular markers for Blastocystis subtyping as an alternative approach for the study of the genetic diversity observed within and between human isolates of this microorganism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Parasitology)

10 pages, 362 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Buffel Grass (Pennisetum ciliare) Ecotypes Suitable for Subtropical Livestock in the North Central Region of Mexico

by Ricardo Alonso Sánchez-Gutiérrez, Héctor Gutiérrez-Bañuelos, Alan Álvarez-Holguín, Edith Ramírez-Segura, Alberto Muro-Reyes, Luis Cuauhtémoc Muñoz-Salas, Daniel García-Cervantes and Francisco Guadalupe Echavarría-Cháirez

Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061224 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

The objective was to determine the forage production and nutritional quality of six buffel grass ecotypes in vegetative and physiological maturity stages. The experiment was carried out at the Los Cañones Experimental Station in Zacatecas, Mexico. The ecotypes were as follows: E-42, E-45, [...] Read more.

The objective was to determine the forage production and nutritional quality of six buffel grass ecotypes in vegetative and physiological maturity stages. The experiment was carried out at the Los Cañones Experimental Station in Zacatecas, Mexico. The ecotypes were as follows: E-42, E-45, E-66, E-72, E-S245, and the Titan variety as a control. The experiment design was a completely randomized block with three replications, and the evaluation years were from 2020 to 2022. The variables measured were as follows: plant height (PH), dry matter yield (DMY), leaf (Lf) and stem-inflorescence (St), crude protein (CP), neutral (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF). Pearson’s correlation and a combined analysis of variance were performed for each growth stage. A correlation analysis showed significant relationships (p < 0.05) between variables. In the vegetative stage, ecotypes E-42, E-45, and E-S45 showed accumulations of over 12% of CP, which were higher (p < 0.05) than the ones for Titan. Low values of E-S245 (p < 0.05) for NDF (63.44%) and ADF (44.49%) stood out among all ecotypes. In the maturity stage, Titan was surpassed by E-45 and E-S245 with CP higher than 4%. The neutral and acid fibers in E-42, E-45, and E-S245 were less than in Titan (p < 0.05). Ecotypes E-42 and E-S245 are alternatives to improve feed efficiency in the dry subtropical climate of Zacatecas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Forage and Grasslands in Ruminant Nutrition and Sustainable Development)

14 pages, 1086 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tribological and Mechanical Behavior of Automotive Crankshaft Steel Superficially Modified Using the Boriding Hardening Process

by Enrique Hernández-Sánchez, Diego Hernández-Domínguez, Raúl Tadeo-Rosas, Yesenia Sánchez-Fuentes, Luz Alejandra Linares-Duarte, Carlos Orozco-Álvarez, José Guadalupe Miranda-Hernández and Rafael Carrera-Espinoza

Coatings 2024, 14(6), 716; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14060716 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

One of the primary challenges in the automotive industry is the wear of engine components, such as the crankshaft and camshaft, which is the most pronounced during the engine’s startup phase, when the amount of lubricant fluid is at its lowest. This study [...] Read more.

One of the primary challenges in the automotive industry is the wear of engine components, such as the crankshaft and camshaft, which is the most pronounced during the engine’s startup phase, when the amount of lubricant fluid is at its lowest. This study aims to enhance the surface wear resistance of automotive crankshaft steel by applying a boriding thermochemical process. This process forms a hard surface layer on the steel, improving its mechanical properties and bolstering its wear resistance, especially under dry conditions. Boride layers were achieved using the powder-pack boriding process in a conventional furnace, with meticulous treatment times of 2, 4, and 6 h at a constant temperature of 950 °C. The nature of the layers was analyzed using X-ray diffraction, and their tribological behavior was evaluated using the pin-on-disk test. The growth of the layers was directly proportional to the treatment time and was estimated at 145 µm and 48 µm for the 6 and 2 h of treatment, respectively. The surface hardness increased from 320 HV for the non-treated steel to 2034 HV for the sample exposed to 950 °C for 6 h. The results indicate a significant reduction in the coefficient of friction from 0.43 for the non-treated steel to 0.12 for the samples exposed to 950 °C for 6 h, suggesting potential wear protection during the engine starting period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Treatment on Metals and Their Alloys)

12 pages, 690 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro/Ex Vivo Release Study of a Ground Umbilical Cord Matrix Loaded with Dexamethasone

by Florine Grossetete, Charlotte Garot, Emmanuel Crouzet, Xavier Delavenne, Philippe Gain, Laurence Barnouin and Gilles Thuret

J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060157 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Eye drops containing steroids and antibiotics are widely used to treat a large range of ocular diseases of the ocular surface. They require frequent instillation or a high dosage, which can affect quality of life. We developed a biomaterial from human umbilical cord [...] Read more.

Eye drops containing steroids and antibiotics are widely used to treat a large range of ocular diseases of the ocular surface. They require frequent instillation or a high dosage, which can affect quality of life. We developed a biomaterial from human umbilical cord that can be loaded with drugs before being placed in the inferior conjunctival fornix. In the present work, this viro-inactivated, freeze-dried, and sterile foam was loaded with dexamethasone phosphate. We studied the release kinetic of 100 mg of biomaterial loaded with 100 µg of dexamethasone phosphate. Assays have shown that the product can be loaded with 100 µg of dexamethasone and allows a progressive release over time for at least 48 h. In addition, when compared with the instillation of the same dexamethasone quantity (100 µg), instilled regularly via eye-drop solution at 0.79 mg/mL, the drug penetration through corneal tissues was better with the dexamethasone-loaded biomaterial. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biomaterials for Drug Delivery)

27 pages, 17851 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Interplay between the Hologenome and Complex Traits in Bovine and Porcine Animals Using Genome-Wide Association Analysis

by Qamar Raza Qadri, Xueshuang Lai, Wei Zhao, Zhenyang Zhang, Qingbo Zhao, Peipei Ma, Yuchun Pan and Qishan Wang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 6234; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25116234 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) significantly enhance our ability to identify trait-associated genomic variants by considering the host genome. Moreover, the hologenome refers to the host organism’s collective genetic material and its associated microbiome. In this study, we utilized the hologenome framework, called Hologenome-wide [...] Read more.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) significantly enhance our ability to identify trait-associated genomic variants by considering the host genome. Moreover, the hologenome refers to the host organism’s collective genetic material and its associated microbiome. In this study, we utilized the hologenome framework, called Hologenome-wide association studies (HWAS), to dissect the architecture of complex traits, including milk yield, methane emissions, rumen physiology in cattle, and gut microbial composition in pigs. We employed four statistical models: (1) GWAS, (2) Microbial GWAS (M-GWAS), (3) HWAS-CG (hologenome interaction estimated using COvariance between Random Effects Genome-based restricted maximum likelihood (CORE-GREML)), and (4) HWAS-H (hologenome interaction estimated using the Hadamard product method). We applied Bonferroni correction to interpret the significant associations in the complex traits. The GWAS and M-GWAS detected one and sixteen significant SNPs for milk yield traits, respectively, whereas the HWAS-CG and HWAS-H each identified eight SNPs. Moreover, HWAS-CG revealed four, and the remaining models identified three SNPs each for methane emissions traits. The GWAS and HWAS-CG detected one and three SNPs for rumen physiology traits, respectively. For the pigs’ gut microbial composition traits, the GWAS, M-GWAS, HWAS-CG, and HWAS-H identified 14, 16, 13, and 12 SNPs, respectively. We further explored these associations through SNP annotation and by analyzing biological processes and functional pathways. Additionally, we integrated our GWA results with expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) data using transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS) and summary-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) methods for a more comprehensive understanding of SNP-trait associations. Our study revealed hologenomic variability in agriculturally important traits, enhancing our understanding of host-microbiome interactions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)

21 pages, 590 KiB

Open AccessReview

Myofunctional Speech Therapy for Facial Rejuvenation and Orofacial Function Improvement: A Systematic Review

by Luca Levrini, Giulia Baldelli, Chiara Castellani, Luigia Ricci, Claudia Paola Bruna Dellavia, Nicola Giannotta, Gaia Pellegrini and Stefano Saran

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(2), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9020099 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

This review aims to reveal the effectiveness of myofunctional speech therapy on facial rejuvenation and/or improvement of orofacial function. A systematic review of four medical electronic databases (Medline, Google Scholar, SciELO, and LILACS) was conducted between January and March 2023. The research question [...] Read more.

This review aims to reveal the effectiveness of myofunctional speech therapy on facial rejuvenation and/or improvement of orofacial function. A systematic review of four medical electronic databases (Medline, Google Scholar, SciELO, and LILACS) was conducted between January and March 2023. The research question was defined using the PICO model: Population (P): adult subjects with signs of physiological aging of facial skin. Intervention (I): aesthetic speech therapy (facial exercises and/or myofunctional therapy). Control (C): absence of treatment. Outcome (O): facial rejuvenation. Through the search process, a total of 472 potentially relevant articles were identified. A total of 21 studies were included in the review. Most of the studies required the participants to perform exercises learned during the weekly session on a daily basis. The subjects underwent an integrated treatment with facial exercises and worked on the stomatognathic functions for different durations. Many differences were found in the evaluation tools used to investigate the starting situation and the effects obtained following the treatment. At the diagnostic level, there was no concordance in the choice of the most appropriate scales and assessment tools, but great heterogeneity was observed. Indeed, forty-eight percent of the studies collected objective data through the use of various instruments (oral devices, electromyographs, cutometers, muscle ultrasound scans, and laser scans of the face). The observed improvements included not only a reduction in wrinkles and frown lines but also decreased muscle tension and slackness, enhanced facial symmetry and lip competence, improved skin elasticity, and restored stomatognathic function. These changes led to myofunctional restoration and facial rejuvenation, resulting in increased satisfaction with self-image and proprioception. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Functional Anatomy and Musculoskeletal System)

23 pages, 505 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Cultural Differences in Body Image: A Systematic Review

by Marzieh Abdoli, Marco Scotto Rosato, Avinash Desousa and Paolo Cotrufo

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(6), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13060305 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Culture affects individuals’ perceptions and experiences of their bodies. In order to provide the most effective solutions to body image-related issues, it is necessary to understand cultures and their influences on body image in various populations. This paper focuses on the effects of [...] Read more.

Culture affects individuals’ perceptions and experiences of their bodies. In order to provide the most effective solutions to body image-related issues, it is necessary to understand cultures and their influences on body image in various populations. This paper focuses on the effects of culture on body image. Therefore, a systematic literature search following PRISMA guidelines was performed in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, yielding 2064 articles published between 1990 and 2023. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 54 articles were selected. Our findings showed a strong influence of culture on body image, highlighting the impact of societal expectations on individuals’ mental well-being. Western cultures, with their preference for thinness, differ from non-Western ideals. The findings also showed the impact of regional variations within the same culture and society on body image. Furthermore, the study found that the young demographic, especially females, is the most vulnerable to body image issues; however, emerging research within our review also indicates a growing concern among males. This study underscores the necessity of culturally considering interventions to address body image issues, which are integral to improving mental health concerns like body dissatisfaction, eating disorders, depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety. Full article

9 pages, 812 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Swelling Behaviors of Superabsorbent Composites Based on Acrylic Acid/Acrylamide Copolymer and Attapulgite

by Hanru Ren, Jun Ren, Ling Tao and Xuechang Ren

Minerals 2024, 14(6), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14060593 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

The swelling behaviors and water retention of superabsorbent sand-fixing materials prepared from acrylic acid/acrylamide copolymer (AA/AM) and acid-modified attapulgite under ultrasonic treatments and different pH conditions were investigated. The results demonstrated that a suitable amount of attapulgite can effectively improve the absorption capacity [...] Read more.

The swelling behaviors and water retention of superabsorbent sand-fixing materials prepared from acrylic acid/acrylamide copolymer (AA/AM) and acid-modified attapulgite under ultrasonic treatments and different pH conditions were investigated. The results demonstrated that a suitable amount of attapulgite can effectively improve the absorption capacity and saltwater performance. The superabsorbent achieved the highest absorptions of 1257.54 g/g and 209.45 g/g in distilled water and a 0.9 wt% NaCl solution, and a higher water absorbency occurred over a wide pH range of 5~9 when the ultrasonic power was 200 W and the attapulgite content was 10%. The addition of attapulgite could significantly increase the water absorption and retention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Clays and Engineered Mineral Materials)

9 pages, 454 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

p-Coumaric Acid Differential Alters the Ion-Omics Profile of Chia Shoots under Salt Stress

by Mbukeni Nkomo, Mihlali Badiwe, Lee-Ann Niekerk, Arun Gokul, Marshal Keyster and Ashwil Klein

Plants 2024, 13(11), 1564; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13111564 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

p-Coumaric acid (p-CA) is a phenolic compound that plays a crucial role in mediating multiple signaling pathways. It serves as a defense strategy against plant wounding and is also presumed to play a role in plant development and lignin biosynthesis. [...] Read more.

p-Coumaric acid (p-CA) is a phenolic compound that plays a crucial role in mediating multiple signaling pathways. It serves as a defense strategy against plant wounding and is also presumed to play a role in plant development and lignin biosynthesis. This study aimed to investigate the physiological and ionomic effect of p-CA on chia seedlings under salt stress. To this end, chia seedlings were supplemented with Nitrosol^® containing 100 μM of p-CA,100 of mM NaCI, and their combined (100 mM NaCI + 100 μM p-CA) solutions in 2-day intervals for a period of 14 days along with a control containing Nitrosol^® only. The treatment of chia seedlings with 100 mM of NaCI decreased their growth parameters and the content of the majority of the essential macro-elements (K, P, Ca, and Mg), except for that of sodium (Na). The simultaneous application of p-CA and a salt stress treatment (p-CA + NaCI) alleviated the effect of salt stress on chia seedlings’ shoots, and this was indicated by the increase in chia biomass. Furthermore, this combined treatment significantly enhanced the levels of the essential microelements Mg and Ca. In summary, this brief report is built on the foundational work of our previous study, which demonstrated that p-CA promotes growth in chia seedlings via activation of O₂⁻. In this brief report, we further show that p-CA not only promotes growth but also mitigates the effects of salt stress on chia seedlings. This mitigation effect may result from the presence of Mg and Ca, which are vital nutrients involved in regulating metabolic pathways, enzyme activity, and amino acid synthesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Management for Resilient Crop Production (Volume II))

18 pages, 918 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From the Microbiome to the Electrome: Implications for the Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis

by Marwane Bourqqia-Ramzi, Jesús Mansilla-Guardiola, David Muñoz-Rodriguez, Elisa Quarta, Juan Lombardo-Hernandez, Antonio Murciano-Cespedosa, Francisco José Conejero-Meca, Álvaro Mateos González, Stefano Geuna, María Teresa Garcia-Esteban and Celia Herrera-Rincon

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 6233; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25116233 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

The gut microbiome plays a fundamental role in metabolism, as well as the immune and nervous systems. Microbial imbalance (dysbiosis) can contribute to subsequent physical and mental pathologies. As such, interest has been growing in the microbiota–gut–brain brain axis and the bioelectrical communication [...] Read more.

The gut microbiome plays a fundamental role in metabolism, as well as the immune and nervous systems. Microbial imbalance (dysbiosis) can contribute to subsequent physical and mental pathologies. As such, interest has been growing in the microbiota–gut–brain brain axis and the bioelectrical communication that could exist between bacterial and nervous cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the bioelectrical profile (electrome) of two bacterial species characteristic of the gut microbiome: a Proteobacteria Gram-negative bacillus Escherichia coli (E. coli), and a Firmicutes Gram-positive coccus Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis). We analyzed both bacterial strains to (i) validate the fluorescent probe bis-(1,3-dibutylbarbituric acid) trimethine oxonol, DiBAC4(3), as a reliable reporter of the changes in membrane potential (Vmem) for both bacteria; (ii) assess the evolution of the bioelectric profile throughout the growth of both strains; (iii) investigate the effects of two neural-type stimuli on Vmem changes: the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate (Glu) and the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA); (iv) examine the impact of the bioelectrical changes induced by neurotransmitters on bacterial growth, viability, and cultivability using absorbance, live/dead fluorescent probes, and viable counts, respectively. Our findings reveal distinct bioelectrical profiles characteristic of each bacterial species and growth phase. Importantly, neural-type stimuli induce Vmem changes without affecting bacterial growth, viability, or cultivability, suggesting a specific bioelectrical response in bacterial cells to neurotransmitter cues. These results contribute to understanding the bacterial response to external stimuli, with potential implications for modulating bacterial bioelectricity as a novel therapeutic target. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis in Relation to Non-communicable Diseases)

19 pages, 2281 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Effect of Interleukin-10 Immunotherapy on Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Studies

by Apostolos Prionas, Karim Hamaoui, Konstantinos Vanezis, Vikash Reebye, Nagy Habib and Vassilios Papalois

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 6231; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25116231 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Renal ischemia-reperfusion is a common cause of acute kidney injury leading to significant morbidity and mortality. There are no effective treatments available in clinical practice. This meta-analysis aims to assess the effect of IL-10 immunotherapy on renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Medline, Embase, Cochrane-library, Google [...] Read more.

Renal ischemia-reperfusion is a common cause of acute kidney injury leading to significant morbidity and mortality. There are no effective treatments available in clinical practice. This meta-analysis aims to assess the effect of IL-10 immunotherapy on renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Medline, Embase, Cochrane-library, Google Scholar and clinicaltrials.gov were searched up to 31 March 2023. Preclinical and clinical interventional studies investigating IL-10 immunotherapy for renal ischemia-reperfusion were eligible for inclusion. The primary endpoint was renal function (serum creatinine) following ischemia-reperfusion. The secondary endpoints included mitochondrial integrity, cellular proliferation, regulated cell death (TUNEL assay), expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β), M1/M2 macrophage polarization, tissue integrity (tubular injury score), long-term kidney fibrosis (fibrotic area %) and adverse events (pulmonary toxicity, cardiotoxicity hepatotoxicity). The search returned 861 records. From these, 16 full texts were screened and subsequently, seven animal studies, corresponding to a population of 268 mice/rats, were included. Compared to the control treatment, IL-10 immunotherapy reduced serum creatinine more effectively within 24 h of administration (95% CI: −9.177, −5.601, I² = 22.42%). IL-10 immunotherapy promoted mitochondrial integrity and cellular proliferation and reduced regulated cell death (95% CI: −11.000, −4.184, I² = 74.94%). It decreased the expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β, led to M2 polarization of the local macrophages, reduced tubular injury score (95% CI: −8.917, −5.755, I² = 22.71%), and long-term kidney fibrosis (95% CI: −6.963, −3.438, I² = 0%). No adverse outcomes were captured. In Conclusion, IL-10 immunotherapy safely improves outcomes in animal models of renal ischemia-reperfusion; the translational potential of IL-10 immunotherapy needs to be further investigated in clinical trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advancements in Organ Transplantation: From Organ Protection to Molecular Therapy)

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10 pages, 973 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Transcriptomic Profile of Mouse Brain Ageing in Early Developmental Stages

by Karolina Kulis, Kevin Tabury, Mohammed Abderrafi Benotmane and Joanna Polanska

Brain Sci. 2024, 14(6), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14060581 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

Ageing is a continuous process that can cause neurodevelopmental changes in the body. Several studies have examined its effects, but few have focused on how time affects biological processes in the early stages of brain development. As studying the changes that occur in [...] Read more.

Ageing is a continuous process that can cause neurodevelopmental changes in the body. Several studies have examined its effects, but few have focused on how time affects biological processes in the early stages of brain development. As studying the changes that occur in the early stages of life is important to prevent age-related neurological and psychiatric disorders, we aim to focus on these changes. The transcriptomic markers of ageing that are common to the analysed brain regions of C57Bl/6J mice were identified after conducting two-way ANOVA tests and effect size analysis on the time courses of gene expression profiles in various mouse brain regions. A total of 16,374 genes (59.9%) significantly changed their expression level, among which 7600 (27.8%) demonstrated tissue-dependent differences only, and 1823 (6.7%) displayed time-dependent and tissue-independent responses. Focusing on genes with at least a large effect size gives the list of potential biomarkers 12,332 (45.1%) and 1670 (6.1%) genes, respectively. There were 305 genes that exhibited similar significant time response trends (independently of the brain region). Samples from an 11-day-old mouse embryo validated the identified early-stage brain ageing markers. The overall functional analysis revealed tRNA and rRNA processing in the mitochondrion and contact activation system (CAS), as well as the kallikrein/kinin system (KKS), together with clotting cascade and defective factor F9 activation being affected by ageing. Most ageing-related pathways were significantly enriched, especially those that are strongly connected to development processes and neurodegenerative diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Neuroscience)

19 pages, 705 KiB

Open AccessReview

Green Methods to Recover Bioactive Compounds from Food Industry Waste: A Sustainable Practice from the Perspective of the Circular Economy

by Vincenzo Roselli, Gianluca Pugliese, Rosalba Leuci, Leonardo Brunetti, Lucia Gambacorta, Vincenzo Tufarelli and Luca Piemontese

Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2682; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112682 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

The worrying and constant increase in the quantities of food and beverage industry by-products and wastes is one of the main factors contributing to global environmental pollution. Since this is a direct consequence of continuous population growth, it is imperative to reduce waste [...] Read more.

The worrying and constant increase in the quantities of food and beverage industry by-products and wastes is one of the main factors contributing to global environmental pollution. Since this is a direct consequence of continuous population growth, it is imperative to reduce waste production and keep it under control. Re-purposing agro-industrial wastes, giving them new life and new directions of use, is a good first step in this direction, and, in global food production, vegetables and fruits account for a significant percentage. In this paper, brewery waste, cocoa bean shells, banana and citrus peels and pineapple wastes are examined. These are sources of bioactive molecules such as polyphenols, whose regular intake in the human diet is related to the prevention of various diseases linked to oxidative stress. In order to recover such bioactive compounds using more sustainable methods than conventional extraction, innovative solutions have been evaluated in the past decades. Of particular interest is the use of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and compressed solvents, associated with green techniques such as microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) and pulsed-electric-field-assisted extraction (PEF). These novel techniques are gaining importance because, in most cases, they allow for optimizing the extraction yield, quality, costs and time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction and Analysis of Natural Products in Food—2nd Edition)

20 pages, 739 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cognitive vs. Linguistic Training in Children with Developmental Language Disorder: Exploring Their Effectiveness on Verbal Short-Term Memory and Verbal Working Memory

by Theodora Bachourou, Stavroula Stavrakaki, Vasiliki Koukoulioti and Ioanna Talli

Brain Sci. 2024, 14(6), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14060580 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

The present study explores comparatively the effectiveness of a cognitive (verbal short-term memory (vSTM), verbal working memory (vWM)) and of a linguistic training (10-week duration each) in the diffusion of gains in cognitive abilities (vSTM and vWM) of in school-aged Greek-speaking children with [...] Read more.

The present study explores comparatively the effectiveness of a cognitive (verbal short-term memory (vSTM), verbal working memory (vWM)) and of a linguistic training (10-week duration each) in the diffusion of gains in cognitive abilities (vSTM and vWM) of in school-aged Greek-speaking children with developmental language disorder (DLD). To this purpose, two computerized training programs i.e., a linguistic and a cognitive one, were developed and applied to three groups (A, B, and C) of children with DLD (N = 49, in total). There were three assessments with two vSTM tasks (non-word repetition and forward digit span) and a vWM task (backward digit span): pre-therapeutically (time 1), where no significant between-group differences were found, post-therapeutically I (time 2), and post-therapeutically II (time 3) and two training phases. In phase Ι, group A received meta-syntactic training, whereas group B vSTM/vWM training and group C received no training. In phase ΙΙ, a reversal of treatment was performed for groups A and B: group A received vSTM/vWM while group B meta-syntactic training. Again, group C received no training. Overall, the results indicated a significant performance improvement for the treatment groups and revealed beneficial far-transfer effects as language therapy can affect vSTM and vWM in addition to direct and near transfer effects. In addition, the intervention type order affected performance as follows: first, better performance on the vSTM task (non-word repetition) was shown when the linguistic treatment was delivered first; second, better performance on the vWM in Time 2 and Time 3 was shown by group B, for which the cognitive treatment was delivered first. Concluding, not only intervention type but also intervention type order can affect performance in DLD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Assessment and Rehabilitation of Individuals with Communication and Language Disorders)

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