MDPI - Publisher of Open Access Journals

9 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effectiveness of Salivary Sampling for the Detection and Quantification of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in Periodontitis Patients

by Nabil Khzam, Omar Kujan, Dorte Haubek, Aysen Arslan, Anders Johansson, Jan Oscarsson, Zeinab Razooqi and Leticia Algarves Miranda

Pathogens 2024, 13(12), 1073; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13121073 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

The objective was to evaluate using unstimulated saliva in detecting Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and to compare the saliva and subgingival and mucosa membrane occurrence of this periodontal pathogen in patients diagnosed with advanced periodontitis. Patients with advanced forms of periodontitis (n = 220; [...] Read more.

The objective was to evaluate using unstimulated saliva in detecting Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and to compare the saliva and subgingival and mucosa membrane occurrence of this periodontal pathogen in patients diagnosed with advanced periodontitis. Patients with advanced forms of periodontitis (n = 220; mean age: 54.03 ± 03 years) at stage III/IV were sampled. Unstimulated saliva, buccal cheek mucosa, and pooled subgingival plaque samples were collected. The identification of A. actinomycetemcomitans was performed using qPCR. A descriptive analysis and Wilcoxon test and analysis of variance were performed. A. actinomycetemcomitans was isolated from 28.18% of the subjects. A total of 660 samples were obtained, 220 from unstimulated saliva, 220 from buccal cheek mucosa surfaces, and 220 from pooled subgingival plaque samples. A. actinomycetemcomitans was isolated from 21.80% of unstimulated saliva, 19.50% of buccal cheek swabs, and 17.70% of subgingival samples. There was a statistically significant difference between the presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans in the unstimulated saliva samples and in the buccal cheek mucosa swab samples and pooled subgingival plaque samples (p < 0.001). These results suggest that in advanced periodontitis, unstimulated saliva is representative of pooled subgingival plaque/buccal cheek mucosa samples and its use is adequate in the oral detection of A. actinomycetemcomitans in a cohort of patients with stage III and IV periodontitis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Pathogens)

27 pages, 6034 KiB

Open AccessReview

High-Performance Advanced Composites in Multifunctional Material Design: State of the Art, Challenges, and Future Directions

by Sónia Simões

Materials 2024, 17(23), 5997; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17235997 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

This review examines high-performance advanced composites (HPACs) for lightweight, high-strength, and multi-functional applications. Fiber-reinforced composites, particularly those utilizing carbon, glass, aramid, and nanofibers, are highlighted for their exceptional mechanical, thermal, and environmental properties. These materials enable diverse applications, including in the aerospace, automotive, [...] Read more.

This review examines high-performance advanced composites (HPACs) for lightweight, high-strength, and multi-functional applications. Fiber-reinforced composites, particularly those utilizing carbon, glass, aramid, and nanofibers, are highlighted for their exceptional mechanical, thermal, and environmental properties. These materials enable diverse applications, including in the aerospace, automotive, energy, and defense sectors. In extreme conditions, matrix materials—polymers, metals, and ceramics—and advanced reinforcement materials must be carefully chosen to optimize performance and durability. Significant advancements in manufacturing techniques, such as automated and additive methods, have improved precision, reduced waste, and created highly customized and complex structures. Multifunctional composites integrating structural properties with energy storage and sensing capabilities are emerging as a breakthrough aligned with the trend toward smart material systems. Despite these advances, challenges such as recyclability, scalability, cost, and robust quality assurance remain. Addressing these issues will require the development of sustainable and bio-based composites, alongside efficient recycling solutions, to minimize their environmental impact and ensure long-term technological viability. The development of hybrid composites and nanocomposites to achieve multifunctionality while maintaining structural integrity will also be described. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced High-Performance Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs))

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26 pages, 5953 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Application of Nanomaterials in the Treatment of Pancreatic-Related Diseases

by Jing Ma, Xue Li and Chunru Wang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 13158; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252313158 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Pancreatic diseases, typically including pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and diabetes, pose enormous threats to people’s lives and health. To date, therapeutics with high therapeutic efficacy and low side effects are still challenging. With the development of nanotechnology, nanomaterials have successfully been applied in pancretic [...] Read more.

Pancreatic diseases, typically including pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and diabetes, pose enormous threats to people’s lives and health. To date, therapeutics with high therapeutic efficacy and low side effects are still challenging. With the development of nanotechnology, nanomaterials have successfully been applied in pancretic disease treatment. Here, we first introduce the diversity of nanomaterials and the effects of their different physicochemical properties on pancreatic function. Following this, we analyze the potential of nanomaterials to enhance pancreatic targeting by overcoming the challenges of traditional delivery methods through surface modifications, structural adjustments, and optimized drug loading. Then, we introduce the application of structurally optimized nanomaterials to pancreatic-related diseases. For instance, on pancreatic cancer (as drug delivery platforms, for the promotion of radiation therapy, and as multifunctional tools), pancreatitis (as drug delivery systems, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic agents), and diabetes (as insulin delivery carriers, for protecting pancreatic β cells, and for improving insulin resistance). Through analysis of the progress of current research, we summarize how nanomaterials can enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects. Finally, we look forward to the prospects of nanomaterials in pancreatic disease treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanoparticles in Molecular Biology)

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13 pages, 4036 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Improving Visible Light Photocatalysis Using Optical Defects in CoO_x-TiO₂ Photonic Crystals

by Alexia Toumazatou, Elias Sakellis and Vlassis Likodimos

Materials 2024, 17(23), 5996; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17235996 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

The rational design of photonic crystal photocatalysts has attracted significant interest in order to improve their light harvesting and photocatalytic performances. In this work, an advanced approach to enhance slow light propagation and visible light photocatalysis is demonstrated for the first time by [...] Read more.

The rational design of photonic crystal photocatalysts has attracted significant interest in order to improve their light harvesting and photocatalytic performances. In this work, an advanced approach to enhance slow light propagation and visible light photocatalysis is demonstrated for the first time by integrating a planar defect into CoO_x-TiO₂ inverse opals. Trilayer photonic crystal films were fabricated through the successive deposition of an inverse opal TiO₂ underlayer, a thin titania interlayer, and a photonic top layer, whose visible light activation was implemented through surface modification with CoO_x nanoscale complexes. Optical measurements showed the formation of “donor”-like localized states within the photonic band gap, which reduced the Bragg reflection and expanded the slow photon spectral range. The optimization of CoO_x loading and photonic band gap tuning resulted in a markedly improved photocatalytic performance for salicylic acid degradation and photocurrent generation compared to the additive effects of the constituent monolayers, indicative of light localization in the defect layer. The electrochemical impedance results showed reduced recombination kinetics, corroborating that the introduction of an optical defect into inverse opal photocatalysts provides a versatile and effective strategy for boosting the photonic amplification effects in visible light photocatalysis by evading the constraints imposed by narrow slow photon spectral regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Materials Physics (2nd Edition))

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31 pages, 5629 KiB

Open AccessReview

CAR T Cell Nanosymbionts: Revealing the Boundless Potential of a New Dyad

by Juan C. Baena, Lucy M. Pérez, Alejandro Toro-Pedroza, Toshio Kitawaki and Alexandre Loukanov

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 13157; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252313157 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Cancer treatment has traditionally focused on eliminating tumor cells but faces challenges such as resistance and toxicity. A promising direction involves targeting the tumor microenvironment using CAR T cell immunotherapy, which has shown potential for treating relapsed and refractory cancers but is limited [...] Read more.

Cancer treatment has traditionally focused on eliminating tumor cells but faces challenges such as resistance and toxicity. A promising direction involves targeting the tumor microenvironment using CAR T cell immunotherapy, which has shown potential for treating relapsed and refractory cancers but is limited by high costs, resistance, and toxicity, especially in solid tumors. The integration of nanotechnology into ICAM cell therapy, a concept we have named “CAR T nanosymbiosis”, offers new opportunities to overcome these challenges. Nanomaterials can enhance CAR T cell delivery, manufacturing, activity modulation, and targeting of the tumor microenvironment, providing better control and precision. This approach aims to improve the efficacy of CAR T cells against solid tumors, reduce associated toxicities, and ultimately enhance patient outcomes. Several studies have shown promising results, and developing this therapy further is essential for increasing its accessibility and effectiveness. Our “addition by subtraction model” synthesizes these multifaceted elements into a unified strategy to advance cancer treatment paradigms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Nanomaterials for Biomedical Applications)

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11 pages, 2961 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Passive Smoking Is Associated with the Risk of Functional Bowel Disorders Among College Freshmen

by Jinlu Guo, Fan Du, Chaofan Duan, Can Chen, Jingze Yang, Xin Yang, Shi Liu, Tao Bai and Xiaohua Hou

Healthcare 2024, 12(23), 2477; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12232477 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Background: Functional bowel disorders (FBDs) have detrimental effects on young adults, but the risk factors were not fully explored. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and potential risk factors of FBDs in college freshmen, including, in particular, the association between passive [...] Read more.

Background: Functional bowel disorders (FBDs) have detrimental effects on young adults, but the risk factors were not fully explored. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and potential risk factors of FBDs in college freshmen, including, in particular, the association between passive smoking and the risk and symptoms of FBDs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2019 in freshmen of Huazhong University of Science and Technology with a random cluster sampling method. Validated questionnaires were voluntarily completed by participants. Rome IV criteria were applied for the diagnosis of FBDs. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis (Model 1: unadjusted; Model 2: adjusted for age and sex; Model 3: adjusted for age, sex, intake frequency of coffee and juice, regular exercise, total sedentary time, sleep quality, interpersonal relationship, and SLSI scores) were performed to determine the potential risk factors of FBDs. Results: A total of 3074 participants were included in this study, among whom 236 college freshmen were diagnosed with FBDs. There was a positive relationship between passive smoking and the risk of FBDs (crude odds ratio [OR] = 2.084, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.480, 2.936, Model 1; adjusted OR = 1.825, 95%CI: 1.245, 2.675, Model 3). Moreover, the symptoms of hard stool, exertion, and sensation of obstruction in defecation were more frequent in passive smokers than non-passive smokers among FBD patients. Meanwhile, diarrhea was comparable between passive smokers and non-passive smokers among FBD patients. Conclusions: In the present study, around 7.68% of college freshmen were found to have FBDs. Passive smoking was positively associated with the risk of FBDs. Furthermore, passive smoking was significantly associated with constipation-related symptoms rather than diarrhea among FBD patients. Full article

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16 pages, 5144 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Progress in 3D Printing Applications for the Management of Orbital Disorders: A Systematic Review

by Luca Michelutti, Alessandro Tel, Massimo Robiony, Salvatore Sembronio, Riccardo Nocini, Edoardo Agosti, Tamara Ius, Caterina Gagliano and Marco Zeppieri

Bioengineering 2024, 11(12), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11121238 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Introduction: 3D printing technology has gained considerable interest in the domain of orbital illnesses owing to its capacity to transform diagnosis, surgery planning, and treatment. This systematic review seeks to deliver a thorough examination of the contemporary applications of 3D printing in [...] Read more.

Introduction: 3D printing technology has gained considerable interest in the domain of orbital illnesses owing to its capacity to transform diagnosis, surgery planning, and treatment. This systematic review seeks to deliver a thorough examination of the contemporary applications of 3D printing in the treatment of ocular problems, encompassing tumors, injuries, and congenital defects. This systematic review of recent studies has examined the application of patient-specific 3D-printed models for preoperative planning, personalized implants, and prosthetics. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The PICOS is “What are the current advances and applications of 3D printing for the management of orbital pathology?” The databases analyzed for the research phase are MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ClinicalTrials.gov, ScienceDirect, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Results: Out of 314 studies found in the literature, only 12 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. From the included studies, it is evident that 3D printing can be a useful technology for the management of trauma and oncological pathologies of the orbital region. Discussion: 3D printing proves to be very useful mainly for the purpose of improving the preoperative planning of a surgical procedure, allowing for better preparation by the surgical team and a reduction in operative time and complications. Conclusions: 3D printing has proven to be an outstanding tool in the management of orbit pathology. Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of such technology, the former far outweigh the latter. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Sights of Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine)

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12 pages, 5263 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Analysis of CLE26 in Controlling De Novo Root Regeneration from Detached Arabidopsis Leaves

by Geng Zhang, Yuxuan Du, Xinying Wang, Yuge Zhang, Shili Zhang, Mingyang Li, Xiaojuan Li and Guifang Zhang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 13156; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252313156 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

De novo root regeneration is the process by which adventitious roots form around the wound site from wounded or detached plant organs. The de novo root regeneration process has been widely exploited in cutting technology used for vegetative propagation. Here, we employed detached [...] Read more.

De novo root regeneration is the process by which adventitious roots form around the wound site from wounded or detached plant organs. The de novo root regeneration process has been widely exploited in cutting technology used for vegetative propagation. Here, we employed detached leaf explants from Arabidopsis thaliana to form adventitious roots for studying the process of de novo root regeneration. GUS staining showed that the expression of CLAVATA3/EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION-RELATED26(CLE26) was gradually increased surrounding the wound site of leaf explants during adventitious root formation. Semi-thin sections further showed that the expression pattern of CLE26 was closely linked to the formation of adventitious roots. Next, genetic analyses confirmed that the CLE26 gene was involved in de novo root regeneration. Furthermore, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of the leaf explants revealed that stress-related genes might be involved in CLE26-mediated adventitious root formation. Specifically, genes associated with the hydrogen peroxide catabolic process and oxidative stress response were predominantly upregulated in the cle26 mutant. In contrast, genes involved in the response to salicylic acid were largely downregulated in the cle26 mutant. Overall, our study indicates that the mutation in CLE26 might upregulate the expression of genes involved in reactive oxygen species metabolism or suppress the expression of genes associated with salicylic acid synthesis, thus promoting the formation of adventitious roots. These findings suggest that CLE26 is a potential candidate for the genetic improvement of adventitious rooting in cuttings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Plant Sciences)

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14 pages, 6132 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of Two Compact Wideband Monopoles Through Loading with Linear Approximated Lumped Components

by Jiansen Ma, Weiping Cao and Xinhua Yu

Micromachines 2024, 15(12), 1477; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15121477 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

In this paper, two ultra-wideband monopoles in a colinear structure are presented for application in remote terrestrial communication systems. The antennas consist of a loaded monopole with a hat and an elevated loaded monopole located in the upper position. All lumped loads are [...] Read more.

In this paper, two ultra-wideband monopoles in a colinear structure are presented for application in remote terrestrial communication systems. The antennas consist of a loaded monopole with a hat and an elevated loaded monopole located in the upper position. All lumped loads are modeled as linear frequency-dependent components to approximate the practical component property for achieving ultra-wideband characteristics, since the constant value property of a component is only present in a relatively narrow band. The antennas are simulated by the method of moments (MoM) with asymptotic waveform evaluation (AWE) to speed up frequency sweep across a wide bandwidth. For proper simulation with the AWE process, the parallel RLC load with linear frequency-dependent components is modeled in a corresponding impedance function. With the optimized load parameters, one antenna covers 30–750 MHz with a VSWR < 3.5 and the other one covers 800 MHz–3000 MHz with a VSWR < 2.5, which are promising results for terrestrial omnidirectional applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RF MEMS and Microsystems)

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3 pages, 171 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Biology: The Open Road to a Theory of Life

by Andrés Moya and Jukka Finne

Biology 2024, 13(12), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13121025 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

The journal Biology was launched in 2012 [...] Full article

15 pages, 2804 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Frequency of Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex Bacterial and Viral Agents Using Multiplex Real-Time qPCR in Quebec, Canada, from 2019 to 2023

by Sébastien Buczinski, André Broes and Christian Savard

Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(12), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11120631 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

The bovine respiratory disease complex (BRD) is a multifactorial disease caused by various bacterial and viral pathogens. Using rapid pathogen detection techniques is helpful for tailoring therapeutic and preventive strategies in affected animals and herds. The objective of this study was to report [...] Read more.

The bovine respiratory disease complex (BRD) is a multifactorial disease caused by various bacterial and viral pathogens. Using rapid pathogen detection techniques is helpful for tailoring therapeutic and preventive strategies in affected animals and herds. The objective of this study was to report the frequency of 10 pathogens by multiplex RT-qPCR on samples submitted for BRD diagnosis to a diagnostic laboratory (Biovet Inc., QC, Canada) in the Province of Quebec, Eastern Canada. From the 1st of January 2019 to the 31st of December 2023, a total of 1875 samples were analyzed. Most samples collected were individual samples (1547 of 1860 samples for which information was available (83.17%)), and the rest were from pooled samples of 2 (8.55%, n = 159) or ≥3 specimens (8.28%, n = 154). In 19.3% of the samples (n = 362), no pathogen was found, whereas 54.1% of samples had two or more different pathogens. Among the viruses, bovine coronavirus (BCV) was the most commonly found (27.5% of samples, n = 516), followed by bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) (17.7%, n = 332), whereas, for bacteria, Pasteurella multocida (50.1%, n = 940) and Mannheimia haemolytica (26.9%, n = 505) were the most common. The frequency of samples positive for Histophilus somni, Mycoplasmopsis bovis, influenza type D virus (IDV), bovine parainfluenza virus type 3 (BPI3V), bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BHV1), and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) was 22.6%, 22.4%, 4.6%, 4.3%, 2.7%, and 0.9%, respectively. In the multivariable Poisson regression model, the total number of pathogens increased with the number of animals in the pool, with an incidence risk ratio (IRR) of 1.15 (95% CI 1.02–1.29) and 1.32 (1.18–1.47) for 2 individuals in the pool and ≥3 individuals vs. individual samples, respectively. An increased number of pathogens were isolated in the winter season (IRR = 1.28 (95% CI 1.17–1.40)) compared to fall, and a lower number of pathogens were isolated in the summer compared to fall (IRR = 0.82 (95% CI 0.73–0.92)). These seasonal differences were mostly driven by the number of viruses isolated. This study gives interesting insights on the circulation of BRD pathogens in cattle from Eastern Canada. Full article

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12 pages, 476 KiB

Open AccessReview

Psychological Treatments for Alexithymia: A Systematic Review

by Kanako Tsubaki and Eiji Shimizu

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1173; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14121173 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Alexithymia, a psychological condition characterized by emotional suppression, is positively correlated with depression and anxiety and can develop into various mental disorders. Although alexithymia affects 10% of the symptomatic population and 25% of psychiatric patients, there has been a paucity of intervention studies. [...] Read more.

Alexithymia, a psychological condition characterized by emotional suppression, is positively correlated with depression and anxiety and can develop into various mental disorders. Although alexithymia affects 10% of the symptomatic population and 25% of psychiatric patients, there has been a paucity of intervention studies. Even though several effective psychological treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), have been tested in recent years, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews on their efficacy. The objectives of this systematic review were to explore and synthesize findings from recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about psychological treatments, with the following inclusion criteria: (1) published from 2010 to 2024; (2) full text being available in English; (3) peer-reviewed journals; and (4) baselines and outcomes measured by TAS-20 and raw data were provided. We excluded non-psychological studies and studies involving mindfulness and DBT. We searched electronic databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, and Google Scholar) and found 18 RCTs and 21 arms for alexithymia, with a combined total of 1251 participants. Fourteen arms (67%) investigated the effect of CBT on alexithymia, including acceptance and commitment therapy (seven arms), behavioral activation therapy (two arms), schema therapy, and compassion-focused therapy. The results indicated that most psychological interventions significantly decreased TAS-20, illustrating a showcase of treatments from each trial with different effect sizes (within-intervention group, ranging from 0.41 to 13.25). However, due to the heterogeneity between the studies, this review study may not be conclusive enough to make each intervention standardized. Further high-quality RCTs with larger sample sizes and more consistent methodologies are needed, and corrective findings from such studies should be applied to produce more robust evidence-based psychological interventions for treating alexithymia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions for Depression and Anxiety: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

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24 pages, 6996 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wind and Photovoltaic Power Generation Forecasting for Virtual Power Plants Based on the Fusion of Improved K-Means Cluster Analysis and Deep Learning

by Zhichao Qiu, Ye Tian, Yanhong Luo, Taiyu Gu and Hengyu Liu

Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10740; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310740 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Virtual power plants (VPPs) have emerged as an innovative solution for modern power systems, particularly for integrating renewable energy sources. This study proposes a novel prediction approach combining improved K-means clustering with Time Convolutional Networks (TCNs), a Bi-directional Gated Recurrent Unit (BiGRU), and [...] Read more.

Virtual power plants (VPPs) have emerged as an innovative solution for modern power systems, particularly for integrating renewable energy sources. This study proposes a novel prediction approach combining improved K-means clustering with Time Convolutional Networks (TCNs), a Bi-directional Gated Recurrent Unit (BiGRU), and an attention mechanism to enhance the forecasting accuracy of wind and photovoltaic power generation in VPPs. The proposed TCN-BiGRU-Attention model demonstrates superior predictive performance compared to traditional models, achieving high accuracy and robustness. These results provide a reliable basis for optimizing VPP operations and integrating renewable energy sources effectively. Full article

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13 pages, 1746 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Climate Change on the Fish Community, and Rhynchocypris kumgangensis (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) Distribution in Deogyusan National Park

by Soonku So, Yun-Jeong Cho, Ji Eun Jang, Su-Hyang Yoo and Jae-Goo Kim

Water 2024, 16(23), 3523; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16233523 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Rhynchocypris kumgangensis, endemic to Korea, is limited to the upper Hangang River and Gucheondongcheon Stream. As a key and climate-sensitive biological indicator species in the Deogyusan National Park, it has a southern range limit in the Gucheondong Valley. Due to climate change, [...] Read more.

Rhynchocypris kumgangensis, endemic to Korea, is limited to the upper Hangang River and Gucheondongcheon Stream. As a key and climate-sensitive biological indicator species in the Deogyusan National Park, it has a southern range limit in the Gucheondong Valley. Due to climate change, notable shifts in the activity, distribution, and population of R. kumgangensis on the Gucheondongcheon Stream are expected. This study examined trends between the 2020 field survey and previous surveys (2014–2018) for fish faunal changes at 13 sites in the Deogyusan National Park and for the population changes of R. kumgangensis at four sites in the Gucheondongcheon Stream. At 13 sites, we identified 996 individuals of 17 fish species in seven families, including 2 endangered (Pseudopungtungia nigra, Hemibarbus mylodon) and 11 Korea-endemic species. The Fish Assessment Index (FAI) of the 13 sites in the Deogyusan National Park was analyzed and found to be of A-grade in both the 2020 and past surveys, with high scores in all M1–M8 categories. Both the results of CCA and field surveys between the entire fish community and pH, DO, and water temperature revealed that the population of R. kumgangensis had a narrower distribution range and was more sensitive to water temperature than the same cold-water fish, R. oxycephalus. Climate change has been identified as causing the annual maximum temperature (°C) in the Deogyusan National Park to increase year on year and the R. kumgangensis population to decline, suggesting that the time for conservation efforts is “now”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Management of Eutrophication, Harmful Algal Bloom and Ecological Health in Freshwater Ecosystems)

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10 pages, 733 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validity of Pleth Variability Index to Predict Fluid Responsiveness in Patients Undergoing Cervical Spine Surgery in the Modified Prone Position

by Won Uk Koh, Dong-Ho Lee, Young-Jin Ro and Hee-Sun Park

Medicina 2024, 60(12), 2018; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60122018 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Background and Objective: The modified prone position, which is an alteration of the standard prone position, reduces cardiac preload. Dynamic variables including stroke volume variation (SVV), pulse pressure variation (PPV), and pleth variability index (PVI) are reliable predictors for fluid responsiveness during [...] Read more.

Background and Objective: The modified prone position, which is an alteration of the standard prone position, reduces cardiac preload. Dynamic variables including stroke volume variation (SVV), pulse pressure variation (PPV), and pleth variability index (PVI) are reliable predictors for fluid responsiveness during surgery. To the best of our knowledge, no studies assessing dynamic variables for fluid responsiveness have been conducted in the modified prone position. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of PVI to predict fluid responsiveness in the modified prone position during cervical spine surgery. Materials and Methods: PVI, SVV, and PPV were recorded at the following times: before and after a 4 mL/kg crystalloid load in the supine position (T1, T2); after placement in the modified prone position (T3); and before and after a 4 mL/kg crystalloid administration in the modified prone position (T4, T5). Fluid responsiveness was defined as stroke volume (SV) ≥ 15%, assessed by the FloTrac/Vigileo™ (Edwards Lifesciences Corp, Irvine, CA, USA). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were analyzed to identify changes in each dynamic variable that could predict fluid responsiveness in the modified prone position. Results: Data from a total of 43 subjects were analyzed. In the supine position, 21 subjects were responders. After subjects were placed in the modified prone position, SV significantly decreased, while PVI, SVV, and PPV significantly increased (p < 0.001 for all). In the modified prone position, 13 subjects were responders, and the areas under the ROC curves for ΔPVI, ΔSVV, and ΔPPV after fluid loading were 0.524 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.329–0.730, p = 0.476), 0.749 (95% CI 0.566–0.931, p = 0.004), and 0.790 (95% CI 0.641–0.938, p < 0.001), respectively. Conclusions: Crystalloid pre-loading could not mitigate the decrease in SV caused by the modified prone position. Changes in PVI were less reliable in predicting fluid responsiveness in the modified prone position. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Intensive Care/ Anesthesiology)

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19 pages, 1316 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Protein Corona on Nanoparticles for Tumor Targeting in Prostate Cancer—A Review of the Literature and Experimental Trial Protocol

by Giulio Bevilacqua, Roberta Corvino, Anna Laura Capriotti, Carmela Maria Montone, Martina Moriconi, Stefano Salciccia, Valentina Brunelli, Valerio Santarelli, Beatrice Sciarra, Aldo Laganà, Daniele Santini, Alessandro Sciarra and Alessandro Gentilucci

Biology 2024, 13(12), 1024; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13121024 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) recognizes the potential of technologies based on the use of nanoparticles (NPs) in revolutionizing clinical approaches to the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. Recent research suggests that once NPs come into contact with the biological fluid of cancer [...] Read more.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) recognizes the potential of technologies based on the use of nanoparticles (NPs) in revolutionizing clinical approaches to the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. Recent research suggests that once NPs come into contact with the biological fluid of cancer patients, they are covered by proteins, forming a “protein corona” composed of hundreds of plasma proteins. The concept of a personalized, disease-specific protein corona, demonstrating substantial differences in NP corona profiles between patients with and without cancer, has been introduced. We developed the design of an experimental prospective single-center study with patients allocated in a 1:1:1 ratio of one of three arms: untreated patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), untreated patients with non-metastatic prostate cancer (PCa), and metastatic prostate cancer patients starting systemic therapies with new androgen-targeted agents or taxanes. The protocol aims to develop and implement sensitive nanotools with two distinct objectives: First, to design NPs capable of selectively binding and detecting biomarkers in order to build a predictive diagnostic model to effectively discriminate between patient sera affected by BPH and PCa. Secondly, within the population with PCa, in the case of initial advanced metastatic diagnosis, the objective is to find biomarkers capable of predicting the response to systemic treatments to improve the precision and efficiency of monitoring treatment outcomes. For protein and metabolite corona experiments, we developed a cross-reactive sensor array platform with cancer detection capacity made of three liposomal formulations with different surface charges. For proteomic-NP studies, proteins were identified and quantified using nano-high-performance LC (nanoHPLC) coupled with MS/MS (nanoHPLC−MS/MS). Metabolites were instead analyzed using an untargeted metabolomic approach. Compared with previous review articles, the novelty of this review is represented by the analysis of the possible clinical applications of protein corona NPs focused on PCa and the presentation of a new clinical protocol in the metastatic phase of PCa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Sight in Cancer Genetics)

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20 pages, 1969 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trophic Structure and Isotopic Niche of Invaded Benthic Communities on Tropical Rocky Shores

by Larissa M. Pires-Teixeira, Vinicius Neres-Lima, Plínio C. Barbosa and Joel C. Creed

Biology 2024, 13(12), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13121023 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

When a species is introduced in a new location, it is common for it to establish itself when it finds favorable conditions in the receptor community with regard to interspecific interactions with native species. The azooxanthellate corals Tubastraea coccinea and Tubastraea tagusensis are invasive [...] Read more.

When a species is introduced in a new location, it is common for it to establish itself when it finds favorable conditions in the receptor community with regard to interspecific interactions with native species. The azooxanthellate corals Tubastraea coccinea and Tubastraea tagusensis are invasive species introduced in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Brazilian Southwest Atlantic. They are successful competitors for space, have multiple reproductive modes, and have high larval dispersion and recruitment, but studies on food and trophic relationships of the genus Tubastraea are still scarce. In the present study, we used isotopic values of δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N to investigate trophic relationships in rocky shore communities invaded by T. tagusensis and T. coccinea corals under different oceanographic and anthropogenic contexts. Using metrics derived from the isotopic values, we show that invaded communities have a lower degree of trophic diversity, with species characterized by similar trophic ecologies while abiotic factors seem to contribute to the biotic resistance of communities exposed to invasion events. Tubastraea spp. occupy a niche space similar to that occupied by the native community of suspension feeders, sharing resources already consumed by the receptor community, which makes invading corals successful competitors for food. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Aquatic Alien Invasions and Their Impact on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services )

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13 pages, 3056 KiB

Open AccessReview

Role of Imaging in Multiple Myeloma: A Potential Opportunity for Quantitative Imaging and Radiomics?

by Anna Michalska-Foryszewska, Aleksandra Rogowska, Agnieszka Kwiatkowska-Miernik, Katarzyna Sklinda, Bartosz Mruk, Iwona Hus and Jerzy Walecki

Cancers 2024, 16(23), 4099; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16234099 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most prevalent hematologic malignancy, particularly affecting the elderly. The disease often begins with a premalignant phase known as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), solitary plasmacytoma (SP) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). Multiple imaging modalities are employed [...] Read more.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most prevalent hematologic malignancy, particularly affecting the elderly. The disease often begins with a premalignant phase known as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), solitary plasmacytoma (SP) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). Multiple imaging modalities are employed throughout the disease continuum to assess bone lesions, prevent complications, detect intra- and extramedullary disease, and evaluate the risk of neurological complications. The implementation of advanced imaging analysis techniques, including artificial intelligence (AI) and radiomics, holds great promise for enhancing our understanding of MM. The integration of advanced image analysis techniques which extract features from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), or positron emission tomography (PET) images has the potential to enhance the diagnostic accuracy for MM. This innovative approach may lead to the identification of imaging biomarkers that can predict disease prognosis and treatment outcomes. Further research and standardized evaluations are needed to define the role of radiomics in everyday clinical practice for patients with MM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Imaging and Liquid Biopsy Biomarkers for Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment)

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15 pages, 1488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

EEG Oscillations as Neuroplastic Markers of Neural Compensation in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: The Role of Slow-Frequency Bands

by Guilherme J. M. Lacerda, Lucas Camargo, Marta Imamura, Lucas M. Marques, Linamara Battistella and Felipe Fregni

Brain Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14121229 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects approximately 250,000 to 500,000 individuals annually. Current therapeutic interventions predominantly focus on mitigating the impact of physical and neurological impairments, with limited functional recovery observed in many patients. Electroencephalogram (EEG) oscillations have been investigated in this context [...] Read more.

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects approximately 250,000 to 500,000 individuals annually. Current therapeutic interventions predominantly focus on mitigating the impact of physical and neurological impairments, with limited functional recovery observed in many patients. Electroencephalogram (EEG) oscillations have been investigated in this context of rehabilitation to identify effective markers for optimizing rehabilitation treatments. Methods: We performed an exploratory cross-sectional study assessing the baseline EEG resting state of 86 participants with SCI as part of the Deficit of Inhibitory as a Marker of Neuroplasticity in Rehabilitation Cohort Study (DEFINE). Results: Our multivariate models demonstrated a positive correlation between frontal delta asymmetry and depression symptoms, while the frontal alpha asymmetry band and anxiety symptoms were negatively correlated. Theta oscillations were negatively associated with motor-evoked potential (MEP), whereas alpha oscillations were positively associated with MEP in all regions of interest and with CPM response as a negative correlation. Based on the potential role of lower-frequency oscillations in exerting a salutogenic compensatory effect, detrimental clinical and neurophysiological markers, such as depression and lower ME, likely induce slow oscillatory rhythms. Alpha oscillations may indicate a more salutogenic state, often associated with various cognitive functions, such as attention and memory processing. Conclusions: These results show an attempt by the CNS to reorganize and restore function despite the disruption caused by SCI. Indeed, this finding also challenges the notion that low-frequency EEG rhythms are associated with cortical lesions. These results may contribute to the development of rehabilitation strategies and potentially improve the clinical outcomes of patients with SCI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neurotechnology and Neuroimaging)

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19 pages, 297 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Documenting Domination: From the Doctrine of Christian Discovery to Dominion Theology

by Adam DJ Brett and Betty Hill (Lyons)

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1493; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121493 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

The Doctrine of Christian Discovery is a series of fifteenth-century papal bulls that served as the theological and legal justification for the colonization of the world and the enslavement of the Original Free Nations, starting first on the African continent before spreading across [...] Read more.

The Doctrine of Christian Discovery is a series of fifteenth-century papal bulls that served as the theological and legal justification for the colonization of the world and the enslavement of the Original Free Nations, starting first on the African continent before spreading across the globe. In the 1800s, these bulls and other documents like The Requerimiento and colonial charters would be codified and enshrined together in U.S. law as the Doctrine of Christian Discovery, becoming the foundation of property law and international law. Also, considering what Peter d’Errico calls Federal Anti-Indian Law, we will trace and document how this framework of domination began with the Catholic crowns of Europe and transformed into the dominion theology found within Christian nationalist theologies today. Our research highlights how the Doctrine became enshrined and encoded within Protestantism and the imagined “secular” of the U.S. and Canada, countries who rhetorically espouse separation of church and state while justifying land theft, treaty violations, and the abuse of Indigenous nations and peoples through the Doctrine. We craft a genealogy of Christian domination by carefully analyzing primary sources, especially the colonial charters. We will conclude by juxtaposing the domination framework and the Haudenosaunee Confederacy’s principles of the Gayanashagowa (Great Law of Peace). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Race, Religion, and Nationalism in the 21st Century)

14 pages, 604 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genomic Prediction of Semen Traits in Boars Incorporating Biological Interactions

by Yantong Chen, Fang Yang, Yanda Yang, Yulong Hu, Yang Meng, Yuebo Zhang, Maoliang Ran, Jun He, Yulong Yin and Ning Gao

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 13155; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252313155 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

In the context of modern pig farming, the central role of boars is underscored by large-scale centralized breeding and the widespread application of artificial insemination techniques. However, previous studies and breeding programs have focused mainly on product efficiency traits, such as growth rate, [...] Read more.

In the context of modern pig farming, the central role of boars is underscored by large-scale centralized breeding and the widespread application of artificial insemination techniques. However, previous studies and breeding programs have focused mainly on product efficiency traits, such as growth rate, lean meat yield, and litter size, often neglecting boar semen traits. In this study, we estimated the genetic parameters and assessed the genomic prediction accuracy of boar semen traits with phenotypes evaluated from 274,332 ejections in a large population consisting of 2467 Duroc boars. Heritability of sperm morphological abnormality rate (ABN), fresh semen volume (VOL), sperm concentration (DEN), and motility (MOT) were estimated to be 0.43, 0.22, 0.23, and 0.16, respectively. GBLUP achieved a moderate predictive ability of semen traits, with a range of 0.32–0.50. Incorporating gene interactions indicated by the KEGG pathways (biBLUP) significantly improved predictive accuracy over the classical additive model (GBLUP) and epistatic model (RKHS). Moreover, biBLUP showed an improvement from 9.50% to 20.10% among the studied traits compared with GBLUP, with the greatest improvement (0.40 vs. 0.48) observed in sperm morphological abnormality rate. In conclusion, moderate to low heritability was estimated for the Duroc boar semen traits. Genomic prediction was able to achieve moderate accuracy, with a range from 0.32 to 0.56, for the studied traits. Considering gene interactions within KEGG pathways enhanced the predictive ability of boar semen traits. Full article

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

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12 pages, 1711 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Selection of Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Genotypes for Three Generations of Low and High Population Growth of the Mite Varroa destructor

by Alvaro De la Mora, Paul H. Goodwin, Berna Emsen, Paul G. Kelly, Tatiana Petukhova and Ernesto Guzman-Novoa

Animals 2024, 14(23), 3537; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14233537 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Honey bee (Apis mellifera) population declines have been associated with the parasitic mite, Varroa destructor, which is currently primarily controlled by the use of acaricides. An alternative is to breed for resistance to Varroa, which was conducted in this [...] Read more.

Honey bee (Apis mellifera) population declines have been associated with the parasitic mite, Varroa destructor, which is currently primarily controlled by the use of acaricides. An alternative is to breed for resistance to Varroa, which was conducted in this study by bidirectional selection for mite fall to obtain colonies with low (resistant) or high (susceptible) Varroa population growth (LVG and HVG, respectively). Selection for three generations resulted in approx. 90% lower Varroa population growth in LVG than in HVG colonies. In addition, late summer Varroa infestation rates of brood and adults were both significantly lower in LVG colonies (p < 0.01), which was also significantly associated with lower Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) infection levels (p < 0.01). Survival of Varroa-parasitized bees was almost 50% higher for LVG bees compared to HVG bees (p < 0.01). Also, colony winter survivorship was significantly higher for LVG colonies than for HVG colonies (p < 0.05). However, the higher colony populations observed for LVG colonies were not significantly different from those of HVG colonies. Overall, individual and colony health was improved by selecting colonies for LVG, demonstrating its effectiveness as a means of breeding for controlling Varroa populations in honey bee colonies. Full article

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3 pages, 179 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Special Issue “The Tight Junction and Its Proteins: From Structure to Pathologies”

by Susanne M. Krug and Michael Fromm

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 13154; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252313154 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Most tight junction (TJ) proteins build epithelial and endothelial barriers [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Tight Junction and Its Proteins: From Structure to Pathologies)

5 pages, 1650 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

The Introduction of a New Mobile Driving Unit for a Ventricular Assist Device in a Pediatric Patient (EXCOR Active)

by Nuri Ünesen, Christian Balmer and Martin Schweiger

J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(12), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11120392 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Pediatric patients supported by extracorporeal ventricular assist devices traditionally require long-term stationary inpatient settings. Limited mobility and permanent hospitalization significantly reduce their quality of life. Berlin Heart address this with their novel mobile driving unit, EXCOR^® Active. This case report presents its [...] Read more.

Pediatric patients supported by extracorporeal ventricular assist devices traditionally require long-term stationary inpatient settings. Limited mobility and permanent hospitalization significantly reduce their quality of life. Berlin Heart address this with their novel mobile driving unit, EXCOR^® Active. This case report presents its first application outside of Germany, where it was developed, focusing on staff education and safety measures leading to a successful switch of driving units. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Disease)

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11 pages, 1967 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Evolution of Mechanical Properties and Cellular Structure of Apples During Freeze Drying Combined with Hot Air Drying (FD-HAD) Process

by Lili Li, Mengmeng Yang, Lewen Zhu, Wenchao Liu, Linlin Li, Weiwei Cao, Junliang Chen, Linlin Zhao, Chung Lim Law, Tongxiang Yang, Guangyue Ren and Xu Duan

Foods 2024, 13(23), 3951; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13233951 (registering DOI) - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Apples are one of the most popular fruits in the world and have a significant share in domestic and international fruit production. Drying is a common method used to extend the shelf life of apples. However, it also induces irregular morphological changes in [...] Read more.

Apples are one of the most popular fruits in the world and have a significant share in domestic and international fruit production. Drying is a common method used to extend the shelf life of apples. However, it also induces irregular morphological changes in apples, which are essential to maintaining the structural integrity of the material. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the effect of cellular changes at the microscopic level on the macroscopic deformation of the material during drying. In this paper, the evolution of cell wall pectin fractions and viscoelastic properties of apples during freeze drying combined with hot air drying was investigated. The findings indicated that during the HAD stage, a decrease in the relaxation modulus (E₁) of the samples was observed in the compression tests when the sample temperature was significantly higher than the glass transition temperature (T_g). As the difference between the two decreased, the samples exhibited increased stiffness and higher E₁. The results of the pectin content analysis showed that the HAD process accelerated the loss and degradation of water-soluble pectin in the samples with high moisture content at the transition point. Simultaneously, the esterification degree of chelator-soluble pectin increased, leading to a reduction in the support provided to the cellular structure of the samples, which consequently affected their mechanical properties. These findings may provide valuable information for the application of freeze drying combined with hot air drying in the efficient processing of dried fruit and vegetable products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Green and Advanced Food Freezing/Anti-Freezing Technologies)

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