The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
32 pages, 1944 KiB  
Review
Advance in Iron Metabolism, Oxidative Stress and Cellular Dysfunction in Experimental and Human Kidney Diseases
by Tiancheng Xie, Li Yao and Xiaogang Li
Antioxidants 2024, 13(6), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13060659 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Kidney diseases pose a significant global health issue, frequently resulting in the gradual decline of renal function and eventually leading to end-stage renal failure. Abnormal iron metabolism and oxidative stress-mediated cellular dysfunction facilitates the advancement of kidney diseases. Iron homeostasis is strictly regulated [...] Read more.
Kidney diseases pose a significant global health issue, frequently resulting in the gradual decline of renal function and eventually leading to end-stage renal failure. Abnormal iron metabolism and oxidative stress-mediated cellular dysfunction facilitates the advancement of kidney diseases. Iron homeostasis is strictly regulated in the body, and disturbance in this regulatory system results in abnormal iron accumulation or deficiency, both of which are associated with the pathogenesis of kidney diseases. Iron overload promotes the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the Fenton reaction, resulting in oxidative damage to cellular molecules and impaired cellular function. Increased oxidative stress can also influence iron metabolism through upregulation of iron regulatory proteins and altering the expression and activity of key iron transport and storage proteins. This creates a harmful cycle in which abnormal iron metabolism and oxidative stress perpetuate each other, ultimately contributing to the advancement of kidney diseases. The crosstalk of iron metabolism and oxidative stress involves multiple signaling pathways, such as hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathways. This review delves into the functions and mechanisms of iron metabolism and oxidative stress, along with the intricate relationship between these two factors in the context of kidney diseases. Understanding the underlying mechanisms should help to identify potential therapeutic targets and develop novel and effective therapeutic strategies to combat the burden of kidney diseases. Full article
29 pages, 1798 KiB  
Review
Advanced Mass Spectrometry-Based Biomarker Identification for Metabolomics of Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications
by Feixue Zhang, Shan Shan, Chenlu Fu, Shuang Guo, Chao Liu and Shuanglong Wang
Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2530; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112530 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Over the years, there has been notable progress in understanding the pathogenesis and treatment modalities of diabetes and its complications, including the application of metabolomics in the study of diabetes, capturing attention from researchers worldwide. Advanced mass spectrometry, including gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry [...] Read more.
Over the years, there has been notable progress in understanding the pathogenesis and treatment modalities of diabetes and its complications, including the application of metabolomics in the study of diabetes, capturing attention from researchers worldwide. Advanced mass spectrometry, including gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS), liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS), etc., has significantly broadened the spectrum of detectable metabolites, even at lower concentrations. Advanced mass spectrometry has emerged as a powerful tool in diabetes research, particularly in the context of metabolomics. By leveraging the precision and sensitivity of advanced mass spectrometry techniques, researchers have unlocked a wealth of information within the metabolome. This technology has enabled the identification and quantification of potential biomarkers associated with diabetes and its complications, providing new ideas and methods for clinical diagnostics and metabolic studies. Moreover, it offers a less invasive, or even non-invasive, means of tracking disease progression, evaluating treatment efficacy, and understanding the underlying metabolic alterations in diabetes. This paper summarizes advanced mass spectrometry for the application of metabolomics in diabetes mellitus, gestational diabetes mellitus, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic encephalopathy, diabetic cardiomyopathy, and diabetic foot ulcers and organizes some of the potential biomarkers of the different complications with the aim of providing ideas and methods for subsequent in-depth metabolic research and searching for new ways of treating the disease. Full article
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15 pages, 1662 KiB  
Article
Endocrine and Transcriptome Changes Associated with Testicular Growth and Differentiation in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar L.)
by Vetle Skjold, Sergey Afanasyev, Erik Burgerhout, Lene Sveen, Kjell-Arne Rørvik, Vasco Felipe Cardoso Neves Mota, Jens-Erik Dessen and Aleksei Krasnov
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(6), 5337-5351; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46060319 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Sexual maturation of Atlantic salmon males is marked by dramatic endocrine changes and rapid growth of the testes, resulting in an increase in the gonad somatic index (GSI). We examined the association of gonadal growth with serum sex steroids, as well as pituitary [...] Read more.
Sexual maturation of Atlantic salmon males is marked by dramatic endocrine changes and rapid growth of the testes, resulting in an increase in the gonad somatic index (GSI). We examined the association of gonadal growth with serum sex steroids, as well as pituitary and testicular gene expression levels, which were assessed with a DNA oligonucleotide microarray. The testes transcriptome was stable in males with a GSI < 0.08% despite the large difference between the smallest and the largest gonads. Fish with a GSI ≥ 0.23% had 7–17 times higher serum levels of five male steroids and a 2-fold increase in progesterone, without a change in cortisol and related steroids. The pituitary transcriptome showed an upregulation of the hormone-coding genes that control reproduction and behavior, and structural rearrangement was indicated by the genes involved in synaptic transmission and the differentiation of neurons. The observed changes in the abundance of testicular transcripts were caused by the regulation of transcription and/or disproportional growth, with a greater increase in the germinative compartment. As these factors could not be separated, the transcriptome results are presented as higher or lower specific activities (HSA and LSA). LSA was observed in 4268 genes, including many genes involved in various immune responses and developmental processes. LSA also included genes with roles in female reproduction, germinal cell maintenance and gonad development, responses to endocrine and neural regulation, and the biosynthesis of sex steroids. Two functional groups prevailed among HSA: structure and activity of the cilia (95 genes) and meiosis (34 genes). The puberty of A. salmon testis is marked by the predominance of spermatogenesis, which displaces other processes; masculinization; and the weakening of external regulation. Results confirmed the known roles of many genes involved in reproduction and pointed to uncharacterized genes that deserve attention as possible regulators of sexual maturation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology)
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12 pages, 447 KiB  
Article
Disentangling the Physiological Responses of Sweet Orange Citrus Trees to Optimize the Design of Deficit Irrigation Strategies
by Alfredo Emilio Rubio-Casal, Víctor Hugo Durán-Zuazo and Iván Francisco García-Tejero
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1149; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061149 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Climate change scenarios and water restrictions are key challenges for Mediterranean citriculture, requiring sustainable deficit irrigation (DI) strategies to ensure sustainable yields. Further research on the physiological pathways that regulate crop responses to water stress is necessary. This work describes the physiological limitations [...] Read more.
Climate change scenarios and water restrictions are key challenges for Mediterranean citriculture, requiring sustainable deficit irrigation (DI) strategies to ensure sustainable yields. Further research on the physiological pathways that regulate crop responses to water stress is necessary. This work describes the physiological limitations induced under drought conditions in young Navelina orange trees, including the crop’s capability to recuperate its physiological status upon rewatering and after water withholding. A trial was conducted in two-year-old trees subjected to three irrigation treatments: a full irrigation treatment (FI) and two different DI strategies. The results show significant decreases in gas exchange rates for stem water potential (ΨStem) values below -1.5 MPa, evidencing diffusive limitations from drought stress. Additionally, there was evidence of increased osmolyte synthesis, a preventative response to oxidative damage. Significantly increased levels of proline (Pro) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were observed with higher levels of water stress (ΨStem < −1.8 MPa), which leads us to assume that this threshold signals the presence of oxidative damage with no capacity for subsequent recovery, probably affecting the final yield. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Use and Irrigation)
19 pages, 8066 KiB  
Article
Study on the Cross-Scale Effects of Microscopic Interactions and Mechanical Properties of Rigid Polyurethane Foam Driven by Negative-Temperature Environments
by Wei Wei, Yusui Bi and Gehua Bi
Polymers 2024, 16(11), 1517; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16111517 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
In order to investigate the cross-scale effects of the interaction between the hard and soft segments of stiff polyurethane foam on the material’s mesoscopic pore structure and macroscopic compression characteristics in various negative-temperature environments, this paper used molecular dynamics to calculate the interaction [...] Read more.
In order to investigate the cross-scale effects of the interaction between the hard and soft segments of stiff polyurethane foam on the material’s mesoscopic pore structure and macroscopic compression characteristics in various negative-temperature environments, this paper used molecular dynamics to calculate the interaction differences between hard and soft segments in different negative-temperature environments. The effects of various negative-temperature settings on the cell structure of stiff polyurethane foam were investigated using scanning electron microscopy and Image J software. Finally, macro experiments were used to determine the influence of a negative-temperature environment on the characteristics of stiff polyurethane foam (such as compressibility). The molecular simulation calculation results show that in a negative-temperature environment, decreasing temperature gradually increases the interaction between hard segment molecules and soft segment molecules, resulting in an increase in the molecules’ modulus and cohesive energy density. The scanning electron microscope results reveal that a negative-temperature environment gradually increases the pore diameter of stiff polyurethane foam. The compression experiment findings demonstrate that, for the same service duration, the compressive strength in the −20 °C environment is 27.53% higher than that in the 0 °C environment. The study’s findings reveal a microscopic mechanism for the following receiving alterations and toughness enhancement of rigid polyurethane foam throughout service in negative-temperature conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Processing and Engineering)
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22 pages, 1552 KiB  
Article
A π-Theorem-Based Advanced Scaling Methodology for Similarity Assessment of Marine Shafting Systems
by Georgios N. Rossopoulos and Christos I. Papadopoulos
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(6), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12060894 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
This paper introduces a rigorous and comprehensive approach to the assessment of marine shafting systems through the utilization of an advanced π-Theorem-based scaling methodology. Integrating journal-bearing similarity assessment and shaft-line scaling methodology with advanced dimensional analysis, the study aims to provide a methodology [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a rigorous and comprehensive approach to the assessment of marine shafting systems through the utilization of an advanced π-Theorem-based scaling methodology. Integrating journal-bearing similarity assessment and shaft-line scaling methodology with advanced dimensional analysis, the study aims to provide a methodology foundation for systematic replication and analysis of marine shafting systems through scaled models. The proposed scaling methodology ensures geometric and mechanical similarity in terms of shaft-line deflection, considering key scaling parameters such as shaft length, diameter, weight, loads, rotational speed, material properties, bearing locations, and offsets. The advanced dimensional analysis computes specific non-dimensional ratios to guarantee a close resemblance between a real-size system and a scaled lab model. The methodology is analytically derived and validated with numerical simulations for a case study, conducting comparative analysis, evaluating discrepancies, and utilizing the integrated framework for experimentation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Ship Technology Development and Design)
19 pages, 450 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Nutritional Composition of Ready-to-Use Meat Alternatives in Belgium
by Evelien Mertens, Peter Deriemaeker and Katrien Van Beneden
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1648; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111648 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The interest in meat alternatives has increased over the years as people embrace more varied food choices because of different reasons. This study aims to analyse the nutritional composition of ready-to-use meat alternatives and compare them with meat (products). Methods: Nutritional composition [...] Read more.
Background: The interest in meat alternatives has increased over the years as people embrace more varied food choices because of different reasons. This study aims to analyse the nutritional composition of ready-to-use meat alternatives and compare them with meat (products). Methods: Nutritional composition values were collected in 2022 of all ready-to-use meat alternatives in Belgian supermarkets, as well as their animal-based counterparts. A one-sample t-test was performed to test the nutritional composition of ready-to-use meat alternatives against norm values, while an independent samples t-test was used to make the comparison with meat. Results: Minced meat and pieces/strips/cubes scored favourably on all norm values. Cheeseburgers/schnitzels, nut/seed burgers and sausages contained more than 10 g/100 g total fat. The saturated fat and salt content was lower than the norm value in each category. Legume burgers/falafel contained less than 10 g/100 g protein. Vegetarian/vegan minced meat and bacon contained fewer calories, total and saturated fat, and more fibre compared to their animal-based counterparts. Conclusions: Minced meat and pieces/strips/cubes came out as the most favourable categories regarding nutritional composition norm values. Vegetarian/vegan steak came out the least favourable compared to steak, while vegetarian/vegan minced meat and vegetarian/vegan bacon came out the most favourable compared to their animal-based counterparts. Full article
19 pages, 1736 KiB  
Article
High Overexpression of SiAAP9 Leads to Growth Inhibition and Protein Ectopic Localization in Transgenic Arabidopsis
by Ru Meng, Zhipeng Li, Xueting Kang, Yujia Zhang, Yiru Wang, Yuchao Ma, Yanfeng Wu, Shuqi Dong, Xiaorui Li, Lulu Gao, Xiaoqian Chu, Guanghui Yang, Xiangyang Yuan and Jiagang Wang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 5840; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25115840 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Amino acid permeases (AAPs) transporters are crucial for the long-distance transport of amino acids in plants, from source to sink. While Arabidopsis and rice have been extensively studied, research on foxtail millet is limited. This study identified two transcripts of SiAAP9, both [...] Read more.
Amino acid permeases (AAPs) transporters are crucial for the long-distance transport of amino acids in plants, from source to sink. While Arabidopsis and rice have been extensively studied, research on foxtail millet is limited. This study identified two transcripts of SiAAP9, both of which were induced by NO3 and showed similar expression patterns. The overexpression of SiAAP9L and SiAAP9S in Arabidopsis inhibited plant growth and seed size, although SiAAP9 was found to transport more amino acids into seeds. Furthermore, SiAAP9-OX transgenic Arabidopsis showed increased tolerance to high concentrations of glutamate (Glu) and histidine (His). The high overexpression level of SiAAP9 suggested its protein was not only located on the plasma membrane but potentially on other organelles, as well. Interestingly, sequence deletion reduced SiAAP9’s sensitivity to Brefeldin A (BFA), and SiAAP9 had ectopic localization on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Protoplast amino acid uptake experiments indicated that SiAAP9 enhanced Glu transport into foxtail millet cells. Overall, the two transcripts of SiAAP9 have similar functions, but SiAAP9L shows a higher colocalization with BFA compartments compared to SiAAP9S. Our research identifies a potential candidate gene for enhancing the nutritional quality of foxtail millet through breeding. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Genetics and Plant Breeding 4.0)
19 pages, 519 KiB  
Review
Integrative Assessment of Seminal Plasma Biomarkers: A Narrative Review Bridging the Gap between Infertility Research and Clinical Practice
by Efthalia Moustakli, Athanasios Zikopoulos, Charikleia Skentou, Sofoklis Stavros, Nikolaos Sofikitis, Ioannis Georgiou and Athanasios Zachariou
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3147; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113147 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Infertility represents a significant global health challenge impacting millions of couples worldwide. Approximately half of all infertile couples exhibit compromised semen quality, indicative of diminished male fertility. While the diagnosis of male infertility traditionally relies on semen analysis, its limitations in providing a [...] Read more.
Infertility represents a significant global health challenge impacting millions of couples worldwide. Approximately half of all infertile couples exhibit compromised semen quality, indicative of diminished male fertility. While the diagnosis of male infertility traditionally relies on semen analysis, its limitations in providing a comprehensive assessment of male reproductive health have spurred efforts to identify novel biomarkers. Seminal plasma, a complex fluid containing proteins, lipids, and metabolites, has emerged as a rich source of such indicators. Reproduction depends heavily on seminal plasma, the primary transporter of chemicals from male reproductive glands. It provides a non-invasive sample for urogenital diagnostics and has demonstrated potential in the identification of biomarkers linked to illnesses of the male reproductive system. Τhe abundance of seminal proteins has enabled a deeper understanding of their biological functions, origins, and differential expression in various conditions associated with male infertility, including azoospermia, asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia, teratozoospermia, among others. The true prevalence of male infertility is understated due to the limitations of the current diagnostic techniques. Τhis review critically evaluates the current landscape of seminal plasma biomarkers and their utility in assessing male infertility. Βy bridging the gap between research and clinical practice, the integrative assessment of seminal plasma biomarkers offers a multimodal approach to comprehensively evaluate male infertility. Full article
24 pages, 832 KiB  
Article
Facilitators of Success for Teacher Professional Development in Literacy Teaching Using a Micro-Credential Model of Delivery
by Amy Scott, Megan E. Gath, Gail Gillon, Brigid McNeill and Dorian Ghosh
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14060578 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Teachers play a critical role in supporting the early literacy development of students; however, keeping up with evidence-based practice while performing a busy teaching role can be challenging. Micro-credentials are one potential route for keeping teachers up to date with the best practices [...] Read more.
Teachers play a critical role in supporting the early literacy development of students; however, keeping up with evidence-based practice while performing a busy teaching role can be challenging. Micro-credentials are one potential route for keeping teachers up to date with the best practices for literacy teaching due to their ability to provide targeted and flexible professional development opportunities. The current study used a mixed-methods design to evaluate two micro-credential courses being offered through the Better Start Literacy Approach. The Better Start Literacy Approach (BSLA) is an evidence-based, structured literacy approach, targeted at 5–7-year-old children in New Zealand. An online survey was used to collect qualitative and quantitative data from 263 teachers and literacy specialists regarding their experience of completing the BSLA micro-credential training. Overall, respondents reported positive experiences, describing how the micro-credential changed their teaching practice, built their knowledge of effective literacy instruction and led to measurable progress in students’ literacy skills. Several design features were highlighted as useful, including the ability to revisit videos and resources multiple times, the organization into modules and the ‘24/7’ nature of access. Findings from the current research demonstrate the importance of utilizing key course design decisions to ensure accessibility and the potential for the positive impact of micro-credentials in the education sector. Full article
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12 pages, 507 KiB  
Article
Pre-Pandemic Predictivity of Anxious-Depressive Symptoms in Post-Surgical Traumatic Distress in Hysterectomy for Benign Disease and COVID-19 Outbreak: A Case-Control Study
by Marta Ielmini, Jvan Casarin, Camilla Callegari, Alessandro Bellini, Manuela Giada Favata, Anna Giudici, Fabio Ghezzi, Antonella Cromi and Ivano Caselli
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3148; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113148 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic led to several needed containment measures that conditioned the onset of depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms in the population. These symptoms, especially if not diagnosed and treated, can also occur in patients undergoing [...] Read more.
Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic led to several needed containment measures that conditioned the onset of depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms in the population. These symptoms, especially if not diagnosed and treated, can also occur in patients undergoing medical care or surgery, with a high impact on people’s lives and causing low adherence to treatment. The study evaluates whether the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worsened the onset of post-surgical distress and symptoms of anxiety and depression in a population undergoing hysterectomy for benign disease during the pandemic era, comparing it with a population with the same characteristics but recruited before COVID-19. Methods: The sample was evaluated before surgery (T1), post-operatively (T2), and 3 months after surgery (T3) through a sociodemographic questionnaire and through the HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) to evaluate anxious-depressive symptoms and the PCL-5 (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5) to assess the onset of post-surgical distress. Results: Patients treated after the COVID-19 pandemic showed a higher depressive symptoms rate compared with those treated before (p-value = 0.02); conversely, pre-COVID-19 patients were more prone to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (p-value = 0.04). A significant association between the occurrence of PTSD and anxiety-depressive symptoms registered at T2 (p-value = 0.007) and T3 (p-value < 0.0001) emerged. In the end, the COVID-19 pandemic has exerted a detrimental influence on the mental well-being of the patients under investigation, with a notable exacerbation of their mood disturbances. Conclusions: The findings advocate for the implementation of psychometric and psychodiagnostic assessments to promptly detect high-risk scenarios that could lead to PTSD, compromising treatment compliance and exacerbating the overall outcome, resulting in substantial direct and indirect burdens. Full article
16 pages, 35362 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Electrospun TORLON® 4000 Polyamide-Imide (PAI) Nanofibers: Bridging the Gap to Industrial-Scale Production
by Baturalp Yalcinkaya and Matej Buzgo
Polymers 2024, 16(11), 1516; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16111516 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Polyamide-imide (PAI) is an exceptional polymer known for its outstanding mechanical, chemical, and thermal resistance. This makes it an ideal choice for applications that require excellent durability, such as those in the aerospace sector, bearings, gears, and the oil and gas industry. The [...] Read more.
Polyamide-imide (PAI) is an exceptional polymer known for its outstanding mechanical, chemical, and thermal resistance. This makes it an ideal choice for applications that require excellent durability, such as those in the aerospace sector, bearings, gears, and the oil and gas industry. The current study explores the optimization of TORLON® 4000 T HV polyamide-imide nanofibers utilizing needleless electrospinning devices, ranging from laboratory-scale to industrial-scale production, for the first time. The PAI polymer has been dispersed in several solvent systems at varying concentrations. The diameter of the electrospun PAI nanofibers ranged from 65.8 nanometers to 1.52 μm. Their filtering efficiency was above 90% for particles with a size of 0.3 microns. The TGA results proved that PAI nanofibers have excellent resistance to high temperatures up to 450 °C. The PAI nanofibers are ideal for hot air intake filtration and fire-fighter personal protection equipment applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Polymer Electrospun Fibers)
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14 pages, 3628 KiB  
Article
Antidepressant-like Effects of Chinese Quince (Chaenomeles sinensis) Fruit Based on In Vivo and Molecular Docking Studies
by Dong Wook Lim, Guijae Yoo, Yun Tai Kim and Changho Lee
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 5838; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25115838 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, we examined the potential antidepressant-like effects of Chinese quince fruit extract (Chaenomeles sinensis fruit extract, CSFE) in an in vivo model induced by repeated injection of corticosterone (CORT)-induced depression. HPLC analysis determined that chlorogenic acid (CGA), neo-chlorogenic acid (neo-CGA), [...] Read more.
In this study, we examined the potential antidepressant-like effects of Chinese quince fruit extract (Chaenomeles sinensis fruit extract, CSFE) in an in vivo model induced by repeated injection of corticosterone (CORT)-induced depression. HPLC analysis determined that chlorogenic acid (CGA), neo-chlorogenic acid (neo-CGA), and rutin (RT) compounds were major constituents in CSFE. Male ICR mice (5 weeks old) were orally administered various doses (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) of CSFE and selegiline (10 mg/kg), a monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibitor, as a positive control following daily intraperitoneal injections of CORT (40 mg/kg) for 21 days. In our results, mice treated with CSFE exhibited significant improvements in depressive-like behaviors induced by CORT. This was evidenced by reduced immobility times in the tail suspension test and forced swim test, as well as increased step-through latency times in the passive avoidance test. Indeed, mice treated with CSFE also exhibited a significant decrease in anxiety-like behaviors as measured by the elevated plus maze test. Moreover, molecular docking analysis indicated that CGA and neo-CGA from CSFE had stronger binding to the active site of MAO-B. Our results indicate that CSFE has potential antidepressant effects in a mouse model of repeated injections of CORT-induced depression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Animal Models in Biomedical Research, 2nd Edition)
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25 pages, 12983 KiB  
Article
First Analyses of the TIMELINE AVHRR SST Product: Long-Term Trends of Sea Surface Temperature at 1 km Resolution across European Coastal Zones
by Philipp Reiners, Laura Obrecht, Andreas Dietz, Stefanie Holzwarth and Claudia Kuenzer
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(11), 1932; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16111932 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Coastal areas are among the most productive areas in the world, ecologically as well as economically. Sea Surface Temperature (SST) has evolved as the major essential climate variable (ECV) and ocean variable (EOV) to monitor land–ocean interactions and oceanic warming trends. SST monitoring [...] Read more.
Coastal areas are among the most productive areas in the world, ecologically as well as economically. Sea Surface Temperature (SST) has evolved as the major essential climate variable (ECV) and ocean variable (EOV) to monitor land–ocean interactions and oceanic warming trends. SST monitoring can be achieved by means of remote sensing. The current relatively coarse spatial resolution of established SST products limits their potential in small-scale, coastal zones. This study presents the first analysis of the TIMELINE 1 km SST product from AVHRR in four key European regions: The Northern and Baltic Sea, the Adriatic Sea, the Aegean Sea, and the Balearic Sea. The analysis of monthly anomaly trends showed high positive SST trends in all study areas, exceeding the global average SST warming. Seasonal variations reveal peak warming during the spring, early summer, and early autumn, suggesting a potential seasonal shift. The spatial analysis of the monthly anomaly trends revealed significantly higher trends at near-coast areas, which were especially distinct in the Mediterranean study areas. The clearest pattern was visible in the Adriatic Sea in March and May, where the SST trends at the coast were twice as high as that observed at a 40 km distance to the coast. To validate our findings, we compared the TIMELINE monthly anomaly time series with monthly anomalies derived from the Level 4 CCI SST anomaly product. The comparison showed an overall good accordance with correlation coefficients of R > 0.82 for the Mediterranean study areas and R = 0.77 for the North and Baltic Seas. This study highlights the potential of AVHRR Local Area Coverage (LAC) data with 1 km spatial resolution for mapping long-term SST trends in areas with high spatial SST variability, such as coastal regions. Full article
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19 pages, 1908 KiB  
Article
Characterizing Macroporous Ion Exchange Membrane Adsorbers for Natural Organic Matter (NOM) Removal—Adsorption and Regeneration Behavior
by Jon Wullenweber, Julia Bennert, Tomi Mantel and Mathias Ernst
Membranes 2024, 14(6), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes14060124 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Addressing the characterization of Natural Organic Matter (NOM) removal by functionalized membranes in water treatment, this study evaluates the effectiveness of two commercial ion-exchange membrane adsorbers: Sartobind® Q (with quaternary amines) and D (with tertiary amines). Using Suwannee River NOM (SRNOM) as [...] Read more.
Addressing the characterization of Natural Organic Matter (NOM) removal by functionalized membranes in water treatment, this study evaluates the effectiveness of two commercial ion-exchange membrane adsorbers: Sartobind® Q (with quaternary amines) and D (with tertiary amines). Using Suwannee River NOM (SRNOM) as a surrogate, Langmuir adsorption isotherms revealed maximum capacities (Qmax) of 2966 ± 153 mg C/m2 and 2888 ± 112 mg C/m2, respectively. Variations in flux from 50 to 500 LMH had a minimal impact on breakthrough times, proving low diffusion limitations. The macroporous (3–5 µm) functionalized cellulose-based membranes exhibited high permeabilities of 10800 L/(h m2 bar). Q maintained positive zeta potential vs. pH, while D’s zeta potential decreased above pH 7 due to amine deprotonation and turning negative above an isoelectric point of 9.1. Regeneration with 0.01 M NaOH achieved over 95% DOC regeneration for Sartobind® D, characterizing reversibility through a pH-swing. Cyclic adsorption showed that Q maintained its capacity with over 99% DOC regeneration, while D required acidic conditioning after the first regeneration cycle to mitigate capacity reduction and re-deprotonate the adsorber. These results have demonstrated the potential suitability of adsorber membranes, designed originally for biotechnological purposes, for the possible removal of disinfection byproduct precursors in drinking water treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Applications)
16 pages, 358 KiB  
Article
Sufficient Conditions for Linear Operators Related to Confluent Hypergeometric Function and Generalized Bessel Function of the First Kind to Belong to a Certain Class of Analytic Functions
by Saiful R. Mondal, Manas Kumar Giri and Raghavendar Kondooru
Symmetry 2024, 16(6), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16060662 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Geometric function theory has extensively explored the geometric characteristics of analytic functions within symmetric domains. This study analyzes the geometric properties of a specific class of analytic functions employing confluent hypergeometric functions and generalized Bessel functions of the first kind. Specific constraints are [...] Read more.
Geometric function theory has extensively explored the geometric characteristics of analytic functions within symmetric domains. This study analyzes the geometric properties of a specific class of analytic functions employing confluent hypergeometric functions and generalized Bessel functions of the first kind. Specific constraints are imposed on the parameters to ensure the inclusion of the confluent hypergeometric function within the analytic function class. The coefficient bound of the class is used to determine the inclusion properties of integral operators involving generalized Bessel functions of the first kind. Different results are observed for these operators, depending on the specific values of the parameters. The results presented here include some previously published findings as special cases. Full article
21 pages, 2414 KiB  
Review
Comparative Analysis of Indoor Air Quality and Thermal Comfort Standards in School Buildings across New Zealand with Other OECD Countries
by Vineet Kumar Arya, Eziaku Onyeizu Rasheed, Don Amila Sajeevan Samarasinghe and Suzanne Wilkinson
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1556; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061556 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
COVID-19 has improved awareness of the importance of appropriate indoor air quality (IAQ) in indoor spaces, particularly in classrooms where children are expected to learn. Research has shown that poor IAQ and temperature levels affect the cognitive performance of children. In this paper, [...] Read more.
COVID-19 has improved awareness of the importance of appropriate indoor air quality (IAQ) in indoor spaces, particularly in classrooms where children are expected to learn. Research has shown that poor IAQ and temperature levels affect the cognitive performance of children. In this paper, we critically compare IAQ standards for New Zealand’s Designing Quality Learning Spaces (DQLS Document) against international benchmarks from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, including ASHRAE 62.1, CIBSE TM57, EN-15251, WHO AQGs, and Building Bulletins 99 and 101. The aim was to ascertain the robustness of New Zealand’s DQLS document, identify areas of superiority, and recommend the required improvement for appropriate IAQ and thermal comfort in classrooms. This comparison review focuses on IAQ parameters: CO2 levels, temperature, ventilation rates, room size, occupant density, and occupancy rates. The findings illuminate a slight lag in New Zealand’s DQLS standards compared to her international counterparts. For instance, while New Zealand’s standards align closely with WHO standards for IAQ concerning temperature and ventilation rates, the recommended CO2 range appears slightly inadequate (800 to 2000 ppm) along with occupancy and classroom size for effectively controlling classroom pollutant growth. This paper emphasises the need to align New Zealand’s IAQ and thermal comfort standards with optimal OECD benchmarks. The identified disparities present opportunities for improving learning spaces in terms of CO2 concentration, size of classroom, and occupant density in schools in New Zealand to meet globally recognised standards, ultimately creating a healthier and more conducive learning environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indoor Air Quality in Buildings)
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16 pages, 3528 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Current Research in the Field of Sustainable Employment Based on Latent Dirichlet Allocation
by Yanan Mo, Kuoti Liao and Junqi Wang
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4557; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114557 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
In the current context of sluggish global economic recovery, widening regional disparities, and little room for policy error, the global employment situation is unprecedentedly severe. Therefore, research on sustainable employment is critical. In this study, we utilized a Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic [...] Read more.
In the current context of sluggish global economic recovery, widening regional disparities, and little room for policy error, the global employment situation is unprecedentedly severe. Therefore, research on sustainable employment is critical. In this study, we utilized a Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modeling approach to identify four central topics within the realm of sustainable employment: “Career Sustainability and Employee Development”, “Socio-Economic Dynamics and Strategies for Sustainable Employment”, “Study on Age, Health, and Sustainable Workforce in the Labor Market”, and “Research on the Impact of Workplace Interventions and Psychological Health Support”. The findings revealed the multidimensional, complex nature of sustainable employment issues. This study expands the theoretical horizon of sustainable employment and proposes multidimensional strategic suggestions for practical applications, including regularly assessing and updating organizations’ leadership styles and employee development strategies, offering customized career development programs and skill training, and formulating inclusive employment policies and supportive workplace environments in order to enhance employee job satisfaction and overall well-being, thereby effectively improving the practical outcomes of sustainable employment and bringing about long-term stability and positive impacts on the labor market. These results provide essential theoretical and practical contributions for policymakers, organizational leaders, and anyone seeking sustainable employment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustaining Work and Careers for Human Well-Being in the New Normal)
26 pages, 6521 KiB  
Review
Application of Additive Manufacturing in the Automobile Industry: A Mini Review
by Jian Yang, Bo Li, Jian Liu, Zhantong Tu and Xin Wu
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1101; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061101 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
The automobile industry is recognized as one of the most influential sectors shaping global economies, societies, and individual lifestyles. Therefore, fierce competition among different companies is continuously undergoing, and special attention is focused on innovations to improve competitiveness. In the past several years, [...] Read more.
The automobile industry is recognized as one of the most influential sectors shaping global economies, societies, and individual lifestyles. Therefore, fierce competition among different companies is continuously undergoing, and special attention is focused on innovations to improve competitiveness. In the past several years, additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as an innovative technology in applications in the automobile industry with significant advantages over traditional techniques. As a result, increasing efforts have been paid to combining AM technology with the development of the automobile industry. Currently, many automobile players are optimizing their industrial layout by incorporating innovative AM techniques, and meanwhile, a lot of research progress has been achieved in order to meet the market demand. This article aims at presenting a timely review to conclude the recent advances in the application of AM techniques in the automobile industry, focusing on the available AM techniques, printable materials, and industry applications, based on which the advantages and disadvantages of each technique and material system are discussed in order to reveal the current application situation. The current research gaps and challenges are also outlined to indicate future research opportunities. Hopefully, this work can be useful to related researchers as well as game players in the industry of this field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Additive Manufacturing of Materials: Process and Applications)
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29 pages, 6164 KiB  
Article
Nanoemulsions Based on Soluble Chenopodin/Alginate Complex for Colonic Delivery of Quercetin
by Arturo Intiquilla, Migdalia Arazo, Alexander Gamboa, Nelson Caro, Martin Gotteland, Alan Palomino-Calderón, Lilian Abugoch and Cristian Tapia
Antioxidants 2024, 13(6), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13060658 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an autoimmune disorder caused by uncontrolled immune activation and the subsequent destruction of the colon tissue. Quercetin (Qt) is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent proposed as an alternative to mitigate IBD. However, its use is limited by [...] Read more.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an autoimmune disorder caused by uncontrolled immune activation and the subsequent destruction of the colon tissue. Quercetin (Qt) is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent proposed as an alternative to mitigate IBD. However, its use is limited by its low oral bioavailability. This study aimed to develop nanoemulsions (NEs) based on a soluble chenopodin/alginate (QPA) complex and Tween 80 (T80), intended for the colonic release of Qt, activated by the pH (5.4) and bacteria present in the human colonic microbiota. NEs with different ratios of QPA/Tw80 (F1-F6) were prepared, where F4Qt (60/40) and F5Qt (70/30) showed sizes smaller than 260 nm, PDI < 0.27, and high encapsulation efficiency (>85%). The stability was evaluated under different conditions (time, temperature, pH, and NaCl). The DSC and FTIR analyses indicated hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions between QPA and Qt. F4Qt and F5Qt showed the greater release of Qt in PBS1X and Krebs buffer at pH 5.4 (diseased condition), compared to the release at pH 7.4 (healthy condition) at 8 h of study. In the presence of E. coli and B. thetaiotaomicron, they triggered the more significant release of Qt (ƒ2 < 50) compared to the control (without bacteria). The NEs (without Qt) did not show cytotoxicity in HT-29 cells (cell viability > 80%) and increased the antioxidant capacity of encapsulated Qt. Therefore, these NEs are promising nanocarriers for the delivery of flavonoids to the colon to treat IBD. Full article
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12 pages, 483 KiB  
Article
Sodium Hypochlorite Pentahydrate as a Chlorinating Reagent: Application to the Tandem Conversion of β,γ-Unsaturated Carboxylic Acids to α,β-Unsaturated Lactones
by Michio Iwaoka, Reo Shimada, Masaki Kuroda, Takehito Ikeda and Eduardo E. Alberto
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1102; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061102 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Sodium hypochlorite pentahydrate (NaClO·5H2O, 1) has recently been employed in organic synthesis as an oxidant for alcohols, sulfides, glycols, etc. In most of these reactions, however, reagent 1 functions just as a simple oxidant, and the variations of the reactions [...] Read more.
Sodium hypochlorite pentahydrate (NaClO·5H2O, 1) has recently been employed in organic synthesis as an oxidant for alcohols, sulfides, glycols, etc. In most of these reactions, however, reagent 1 functions just as a simple oxidant, and the variations of the reactions have not been well explored. In this study, we report another useful and fascinating reaction, in which reagent 1 functions as a green chlorinating reagent toward β,γ-unsaturated carboxylic acid (2). When substrate 2 was stirred at room temperature with 1 (2 eq) in acetonitrile for 1 h, α,β-unsaturated lactone (3) was obtained in moderate yields (up to 62%). The same reaction proceeded in various organic and aqueous solvents as well. When excess reagent 1 was employed, lactone 3 was further oxidized to the corresponding epoxide (4) for some cases. The conversion is initiated by electrophilic attack of HOCl to the C=C bond of 2 to generate a chloronium ion intermediate, which is cyclized to β-chlorolactone (5) and then 3 through the elimination of HCl. The usefulness of 1 as a chlorinating reagent was further demonstrated in the electrophilic substitution of activated aromatic compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Prospects in Organic Synthesis)
19 pages, 848 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Integer Time Series Model Estimations through Neural Network-Based Fuzzy Time Series Analysis
by Mohammed H. El-Menshawy, Mohamed S. Eliwa, Laila A. Al-Essa, Mahmoud El-Morshedy and Rashad M. EL-Sagheer
Symmetry 2024, 16(6), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16060660 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
This investigation explores the effects of applying fuzzy time series (FTSs) based on neural network models for estimating a variety of spectral functions in integer time series models. The focus is particularly on the skew integer autoregressive of order one (NSINAR(1)) model. To [...] Read more.
This investigation explores the effects of applying fuzzy time series (FTSs) based on neural network models for estimating a variety of spectral functions in integer time series models. The focus is particularly on the skew integer autoregressive of order one (NSINAR(1)) model. To support this estimation, a dataset consisting of NSINAR(1) realizations with a sample size of n = 1000 is created. These input values are then subjected to fuzzification via fuzzy logic. The prowess of artificial neural networks in pinpointing fuzzy relationships is harnessed to improve prediction accuracy by generating output values. The study meticulously analyzes the enhancement in smoothing of spectral function estimators for NSINAR(1) by utilizing both input and output values. The effectiveness of the output value estimates is evaluated by comparing them to input value estimates using a mean-squared error (MSE) analysis, which shows how much better the output value estimates perform. Full article
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18 pages, 1438 KiB  
Article
On-Site Physiotherapy in Emergency Department Patients Presenting with Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Leon Chrobok, Tanguy Espejo, Henk B. Riedel, Joris Kirchberger, Jan-Arie Overberg, Florina Felber, Guido Perrot, Christian H. Nickel and Roland Bingisser
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3149; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113149 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Background: There is a high incidence of nonspecific Low Back Pain (LBP) in patients visiting Emergency Departments (EDs), but there is a lack of knowledge regarding emergency physiotherapy for LBP. The effect of on-site physiotherapy in these patients was therefore never demonstrated. We [...] Read more.
Background: There is a high incidence of nonspecific Low Back Pain (LBP) in patients visiting Emergency Departments (EDs), but there is a lack of knowledge regarding emergency physiotherapy for LBP. The effect of on-site physiotherapy in these patients was therefore never demonstrated. We assessed short-term outcomes, feasibility and patient satisfaction with physiotherapy in ED patients presenting with nonspecific LBP. Methods: A block-randomized, controlled, open-label trial with a follow-up of 42 days. Patients aged 18 years or older presenting to an ED with nonspecific LBP were prospectively enrolled. Both groups received the same booklet with written information on LBP management and exercises. Patients in the intervention group were given additional instructions by a certified physiotherapist. Results: We included 86 patients in the primary analysis. The median age was 40, and 40.7% were female. At day 7, the median Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) was 2 points lower in the intervention group compared to the control group, which was not statistically significant. There was no between-group difference in pain at day 7. Patients who received physiotherapy felt significantly more confident with the exercises they were taught (p = 0.004, effect size = 0.3 [95% CI 0.1 to 0.5]). Conclusions: On-site physiotherapy in ED patients presenting with nonspecific low back pain is associated with higher patient satisfaction, compared to standard of care. The effect of physiotherapy was small, with only minimal improvement in disability, but without a reduction in pain. Despite the very small effect size, physiotherapeutic interventions should be investigated in larger cohorts with an extended intervention including patient education, exercises, and other physiotherapeutic modalities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Emergency Medicine)
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