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19 pages, 618 KiB  
Article
Effect of a Nutritional Education Intervention on Sports Nutrition Knowledge, Dietary Intake, and Body Composition in Female Athletes: A Pilot Study
by Macarena Veloso-Pulgar and Andreu Farran-Codina
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2560; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152560 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Studies have reported that female athletes often exhibit low levels of nutritional knowledge and inadequate dietary intake to meet their nutritional needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a nutritional education intervention on nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Studies have reported that female athletes often exhibit low levels of nutritional knowledge and inadequate dietary intake to meet their nutritional needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a nutritional education intervention on nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, and body composition in female handball players (n = 45; age, 17.6 ± 2.1 years). Methods: A quasi-experimental intervention design was implemented, consisting of a 3-week educational program delivered through six in-person sessions led by a registered dietitian. Nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and anthropometric and body composition measurements were assessed. Results: Nutrition knowledge levels were significantly higher both immediately post-intervention and three months later compared to baseline (p < 0.05, ES > 0.8). A total of 36 participants completed a 3-day dietary record at baseline and at follow-up. Initial assessments revealed insufficient energy (31 kcal/kg/day) and carbohydrate intake (3.0 g/kg/day) and a high intake of total fats (1.4 g/kg/day). During follow-up, a significant decrease in the consumption of foods rich in sugar was observed (p = 0.0272). A total of 82.2% of the players needed to improve their adherence to the Mediterranean diet. No significant changes were found in Mediterranean diet adherence or body composition following the intervention. Conclusions: The nutritional education intervention significantly improved athletes’ nutritional knowledge and significantly decreased their consumption of sugary foods; however, further studies are needed to evaluate its impact on dietary intake and body composition, considering the study’s limitations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Habits, Nutritional Knowledge, and Nutrition Education)
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14 pages, 1848 KiB  
Article
RadiomiX for Radiomics Analysis: Automated Approaches to Overcome Challenges in Replicability
by Harel Kotler, Luca Bergamin, Fabio Aiolli, Elena Scagliori, Angela Grassi, Giulia Pasello, Alessandra Ferro, Francesca Caumo and Gisella Gennaro
Diagnostics 2025, 15(15), 1968; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15151968 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: To simplify the decision-making process in radiomics by employing RadiomiX, an algorithm designed to automatically identify the best model combination and validate them across multiple environments was developed, thus enhancing the reliability of results. Methods: RadiomiX systematically tests classifier and feature [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: To simplify the decision-making process in radiomics by employing RadiomiX, an algorithm designed to automatically identify the best model combination and validate them across multiple environments was developed, thus enhancing the reliability of results. Methods: RadiomiX systematically tests classifier and feature selection method combinations known to be suitable for radiomic datasets to determine the best-performing configuration across multiple train–test splits and K-fold cross-validation. The framework was validated on four public retrospective radiomics datasets including lung nodules, metastatic breast cancer, and hepatic encephalopathy using CT, PET/CT, and MRI modalities. Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUC) and accuracy metrics. Results: RadiomiX achieved superior performance across four datasets: LLN (AUC = 0.850 and accuracy = 0.785), SLN (AUC = 0.845 and accuracy = 0.754), MBC (AUC = 0.889 and accuracy = 0.833), and CHE (AUC = 0.837 and accuracy = 0.730), significantly outperforming original published models (p < 0.001 for LLN/SLN and p = 0.023 for MBC accuracy). When original published models were re-evaluated using ten-fold cross-validation, their performance decreased substantially: LLN (AUC = 0.783 and accuracy = 0.731), SLN (AUC = 0.748 and accuracy = 0.714), MBC (AUC = 0.764 and accuracy = 0.711), and CHE (AUC = 0.755 and accuracy = 0.677), further highlighting RadiomiX’s methodological advantages. Conclusions: Systematically testing model combinations using RadiomiX has led to significant improvements in performance. This emphasizes the potential of automated ML as a step towards better-performing and more reliable radiomic models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostics)
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15 pages, 920 KiB  
Article
Toxicity and Detoxification Enzyme Inhibition in the Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) by Artemisia annua L. Essential Oil and Its Major Monoterpenoids
by Fatemeh Nasr Azadani, Jalal Jalali Sendi, Asgar Ebadollahi, Roya Azizi and William N. Setzer
Insects 2025, 16(8), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16080811 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, is one of the polyphagous pests of several crops and forestry, resistant to numerous conventional chemicals. Due to the negative side effects of harmful chemical pesticides, such as environmental pollution, and risks to human health, the [...] Read more.
The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, is one of the polyphagous pests of several crops and forestry, resistant to numerous conventional chemicals. Due to the negative side effects of harmful chemical pesticides, such as environmental pollution, and risks to human health, the introduction of effective and low-risk alternatives is essential. The promising pesticidal effects of essential oils (EOs) isolated from Artemisia annua have been documented in recent studies. In the present study, the acaricidal effects of an A. annua EO, along with its two dominant monoterpenoids, 1,8-cineole and camphor, were investigated against adults of T. urticae. Artemisia annua EO, 1,8-cineole, and camphor, with 24 h-LC50 values of 0.289, 0.533, and 0.64 µL/L air, respectively, had significant toxicity by fumigation against T. urticae adults. Along with lethality, A. annua EO and monoterpenoids had significant inhibitory effects on the activity of detoxifying enzymes, including α- and β-esterases, glutathione S-transferases, and cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase. According to the findings of the present study, A. annua EO and its two dominant monoterpenoids, 1,8-cineole and camphor, with significant toxicity and inhibitory effects on detoxifying enzymes, can be introduced as available, effective, and eco-friendly acaricides in the management of T. urticae. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Essential Oils for the Control of Insects and Mites)
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16 pages, 3103 KiB  
Article
Resin Composites with Anti-Biofouling Zwitterionic Polymer and Silica/Zirconia Filler for Digital Light Processing (DLP) of Dental Protheses
by Yun-Hee Lee, Jae-Min Jung, Gyu-Nam Kim and Young-Hag Koh
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3677; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153677 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study aimed to develop an innovative resin composite with anti-biofouling properties, tailored to prosthesis fabrication in dentistry using a digital light processing (DLP) 3D-printing technique. The resin composite was formulated using a blend of dental monomers, with the integration of 2-methacryloyloxylethyl phosphorylcholine [...] Read more.
This study aimed to develop an innovative resin composite with anti-biofouling properties, tailored to prosthesis fabrication in dentistry using a digital light processing (DLP) 3D-printing technique. The resin composite was formulated using a blend of dental monomers, with the integration of 2-methacryloyloxylethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) with anti-biofouling behavior and γ-MPS-treated silica-zirconia powder for simultaneous mechanical reinforcement. The overall characterization of the resin composite was carried out using various contents of MPC incorporated into the resin (0–7 wt%) for examining the rheological behavior, photopolymerization, flexural strength/modulus, microstructure and anti-biofouling efficiency. The resin composite demonstrated a significant reduction in bacterial adhesion (97.4% for E. coli and 86.5% for S. aureus) and protein adsorption (reduced OD value from 1.3 ± 0.4 to 0.8 ± 0.2) with 7 wt% of MPC incorporation, without interfering with photopolymerization to demonstrate potential suitability for 3D printing without issues (p < 0.01, and p < 0.05, respectively). The incorporation and optimization of γ-MPS-treated silica-zirconia powder (10–40 vol%) enhanced mechanical properties, leading to a reasonable flexural strength (103.4 ± 6.1 MPa) and a flexural modulus (4.3 ± 0.4 GPa) at 30 vol% (n = 6). However, a further increase to 40 vol% resulted in a reduction in flexural strength and modulus; nevertheless, the results were above ISO 10477 standards for dental materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Restorative Dental Materials and Fabrication Techniques)
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12 pages, 398 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Microhardness and Depth of Cure of Six Bulk-Fill Resin Composites
by Tomislav Skrinjaric, Kristina Gorseta, Jelena Bagaric, Petra Bucevic Sojcic, Jakov Stojanovic and Luc A. M. Marks
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(8), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9080418 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background. Physicomechanical properties and clinical service of bulk-fill composites depend on their adequate polymerization and depth of cure. Some manufacturers claim that these composites can be adequately cured when used in bulks exceeding 4 mm. Objective. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.
Background. Physicomechanical properties and clinical service of bulk-fill composites depend on their adequate polymerization and depth of cure. Some manufacturers claim that these composites can be adequately cured when used in bulks exceeding 4 mm. Objective. The aim of this study was to compare Vickers microhardness (VMH) and depth of cure (DOC) of six contemporary bulk-fill resin composites at depths of 4 mm and 6 mm. Material and methods. Six bulk-fill composites were evaluated in this study: 1. Tetric EvoCeram Bulk (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein), (TEC); 2. Filtek Bulk Fill Posterior (3M ESPE Dental Products Division, St. Paul, MN, USA), (FBF); 3. Filtek One Bulk Fill (3M ESPE Dental Products Division, St. Paul, MN, USA, (FOB); 4. SonicFill 2 (Kerr, Orange, CA, USA), (SF2); 5. Admira Fusion X-tra (Voco, GmbH, Cuxhaven, Germany), (AFX); 6. GrandioSO X-tra (Voco, GmbH, Cuxhaven, Germany), (GSX). The 18 specimens (3 of each composite) were prepared in split Teflon moulds of 4 mm diameter and 6 mm thickness. All composites were cured in standard mode for 20 s using LED LCU (D-Light Duo, RF-Pharmaceuticals Sarl, Geneva, Switzerland; 1200–1300 mW/cm). The VMH was measured using a digital Micro Hardness Tester Shimadzu (HMV-2T E, Shimadzu Corporation, Kyoto, Japan). A 50 g (0.5 N) load force was applied for 30 s. Each specimen was measured at five places selected by chance at each level (N = 15). The hardness ratio or DOC was calculated for all samples as the ratio of bottom and surface microhardness at levels of 4 and 6 mm. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test. Results. Significant reduction in VMH was observed for all tested materials when comparing top surface and bottom (p < 0.01). The highest VMH was obtained for GSX and AFX, and the lowest for TEC. The results show that the degree of polymerization was adequate for all tested materials at a depth of 6 mm, since the hardness ratio exceeded 0.80 in all cases. The hardness ratio at 4 mm was high for all tested composites ranging from 0.91 for TEC to 0.98 for GSX. All composites showed adequate DOC at the bottom of the 6 mm bulk samples. However, the hardness ratio was the highest for Admira Fusion X-tra (0.96) and GrandioSO X-tra (0.97). Conclusions. All tested materials showed a significant decrease in microhardness from the top surface to the bottom. The DOC was adequate for all bulk-fill composites at a depth of 6 mm cured under standard mode for 20 s. All bulk-fill resin composites evaluated in this study can be used in bulk, up to 6 mm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Direct and Indirect Dental Composite Restorations)
19 pages, 357 KiB  
Article
Resilience and Mobbing Among Nurses in Emergency Departments: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Aristotelis Koinis, Ioanna V. Papathanasiou, Ioannis Moisoglou, Ioannis Kouroutzis, Vasileios Tzenetidis, Dimitra Anagnostopoulou, Pavlos Sarafis and Maria Malliarou
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1908; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151908 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Moral harassment (mobbing) in healthcare, particularly among nurses, remains a persistent issue with detrimental effects on mental health, resilience, and quality of life. Aim: We examine the relationship between the resilience of nurses working in Emergency Departments (EDs) and how these factors [...] Read more.
Background: Moral harassment (mobbing) in healthcare, particularly among nurses, remains a persistent issue with detrimental effects on mental health, resilience, and quality of life. Aim: We examine the relationship between the resilience of nurses working in Emergency Departments (EDs) and how these factors influence experiences of workplace mobbing. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 90 nurses from four public hospitals in Greece’s 5th Health District. Data were collected between October 2023 and March 2024 using the WHOQOL-BREF, Workplace Psychologically Violent Behaviors (WPVB) scale and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). The sample consisted primarily of full-time nurses (84.3% female; mean age = 43.1 years), with 21.1% reporting chronic conditions. Most participants were married (80.0%) and had children (74.4%), typically two (56.1%). Statistical analyses—conducted using SPSS version 27.0—included descriptive statistics, Pearson and Spearman correlations, multiple linear regression, and mediation analysis, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Resilience was moderate (mean = 66.38%; Cronbach’s α = 0.93) and positively correlated with all WHOQOL-BREF domains—physical, psychological, social, and environmental (r = 0.30–0.40)—but not with the overall WHOQOL-BREF. The mean overall WHOQOL-BREF score was 68.4%, with the lowest scores observed in the environmental domain (mean = 53.76%). Workplace mobbing levels were low to moderate (mean WPVB score = 17.87), with subscale reliabilities ranging from α = 0.78 to 0.95. Mobbing was negatively associated with social relationships and the environmental WHOQOL-BREF (ρ = –0.23 to –0.33). Regression analysis showed that cohabitation and higher resilience significantly predicted better WHOQOL-BREF outcomes, whereas mobbing was not a significant predictor. Mediation analysis (bootstrap N = 5000) indicated no significant indirect effect of resilience in the relationship between mobbing and WHOQOL-BREF. Conclusions: Resilience was identified as a key protective factor for nurses’ quality of life in emergency care settings. Although workplace mobbing was present at low-to-moderate levels, it was negatively associated with specific WHOQOL-BREF domains. Enhancing mental resilience among nurses may serve as a valuable strategy to mitigate the psychological effects of moral harassment in healthcare environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Social Care Policy—2nd Edition)
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19 pages, 3596 KiB  
Article
Radon Exposure to the General Population of the Fernald Community Cohort
by John F. Reichard, Swade Barned, Angelico Mendy and Susan M. Pinney
Atmosphere 2025, 16(8), 939; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16080939 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The Fernald Feed Materials Production Center (FMPC), located in Fernald, Ohio, USA, released radon (Rn) as a byproduct of the processing of uranium materials during the years from 1951 to 1989. Rn is a colorless, odorless gas that emits charged alpha radiation that [...] Read more.
The Fernald Feed Materials Production Center (FMPC), located in Fernald, Ohio, USA, released radon (Rn) as a byproduct of the processing of uranium materials during the years from 1951 to 1989. Rn is a colorless, odorless gas that emits charged alpha radiation that interacts with cells in the lung and trachea-bronchial tree, leading to DNA damage, mutations, and tumor initiation. The purpose of this project was to use evidence collected by the Fernald Dosimetry Reconstruction Project and other sources to estimate the outdoor Rn exposure to individuals in the community immediately surrounding the FMPC during the years of plant operation. Using previously tabulated source terms, diffusion and meteorological data, and self-reported detailed residential histories, we estimated radon exposure for approximately 9300 persons who lived at more than 14,000 addresses. The results indicated that a portion of the population cohort experiences mean annual Rn exposure exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) action limit of 4 pCiL−1. These exposure estimates support the analysis of the incidence of lung cancer in the Fernald Community Cohort (FCC). Full article
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14 pages, 2501 KiB  
Article
Therapeutic Patterns and Surgical Decision-Making in Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Regional Cohort Study in Romania
by Ramona Andreea Cioroianu, Michael Schenker, Virginia-Maria Rădulescu, Tradian Ciprian Berisha, George Ovidiu Cioroianu, Mihaela Popescu, Cristina Mihaela Ciofiac, Ana Maria Petrescu and Stelian Ștefăniță Mogoantă
Clin. Pract. 2025, 15(8), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract15080145 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women globally. In Romania, it is the most frequent form of cancer affecting women, with approximately 12,000 new cases diagnosed annually, and the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality, second only to [...] Read more.
Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women globally. In Romania, it is the most frequent form of cancer affecting women, with approximately 12,000 new cases diagnosed annually, and the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality, second only to lung cancer. Methods: This study looked at 79 breast cancer patients from Oltenia, concentrating on epidemiology, histology, diagnostic features, and treatments. Patients were chosen based on inclusion criteria such as histopathologically verified diagnosis, availability of clinical and treatment data, and follow-up information. The analyzed biological material consisted of tissue samples taken from the breast parenchyma and axillary lymph nodes. Even though not the primary subject of this paper, all patients underwent immunohistochemical (IHC) evaluation both preoperatively and postoperatively. Results: We found invasive ductal carcinoma to be the predominant type, while ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and mixed types were rare. We performed cross-tabulations of metastasis versus nodal status and age versus therapy type; none reached significance (all p > 0.05), suggesting observed differences were likely due to chance. A chi-square test comparing surgical interventions (breast-conserving vs. mastectomy) in patients who did or did not receive chemotherapy showed, χ2 = 3.17, p = 0.367, indicating that chemotherapy did not significantly influence surgical choice. Importantly, adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy were used at similar rates across age groups, whereas neoadjuvant hormonal (endocrine) therapy was more common in older patients (but without statistical significance). Conclusions: Finally, we discussed the consequences of individualized care and early detection. Romania’s shockingly low screening rate, which contributes to delayed diagnosis, emphasizes the importance of improved population medical examination and tailored treatment options. Also, the country has one of the lowest rates of mammography uptake in Europe and no systematic population screening program. Full article
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17 pages, 545 KiB  
Article
Concordance Index-Based Comparison of Inflammatory and Classical Prognostic Markers in Untreated Hepatocellular Carcinoma
by Natalia Afonso-Luis, Inés Monescillo-Martín, Joaquín Marchena-Gómez, Pau Plá-Sánchez, Francisco Cruz-Benavides and Carmen Rosa Hernández-Socorro
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5514; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155514 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Inflammation-based markers have emerged as potential prognostic tools in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but comparative data with classical prognostic factors in untreated HCC are limited. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the prognostic performance of inflammatory and conventional markers using Harrell’s [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Inflammation-based markers have emerged as potential prognostic tools in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but comparative data with classical prognostic factors in untreated HCC are limited. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the prognostic performance of inflammatory and conventional markers using Harrell’s concordance index (C-index). Methods: This retrospective study included 250 patients with untreated HCC. Prognostic variables included age, BCLC stage, Child–Pugh classification, Milan criteria, MELD score, AFP, albumin, Charlson comorbidity index, and the inflammation-based markers neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI), and Systemic Immune-inflammation Index (SIII). Survival was analyzed using Cox regression. Predictive performance was assessed using the C-index, Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), and likelihood ratio tests. Results: Among the classical markers, BCLC showed the highest predictive performance (C-index: 0.717), while NLR ranked highest among the inflammatory markers (C-index: 0.640), above the MELD score and Milan criteria. In multivariate analysis, NLR ≥ 2.3 remained an independent predictor of overall survival (HR: 1.787; 95% CI: 1.264–2.527; p < 0.001), along with BCLC stage, albumin, Charlson index, and Milan criteria. Including NLR in the model modestly improved the C-index (from 0.781 to 0.794) but significantly improved model fit (Δ–2LL = 10.75; p = 0.001; lower AIC). Conclusions: NLR is an accessible, cost-effective, and independent prognostic marker for overall survival in untreated HCC. It shows discriminative power comparable to or greater than most conventional predictors and may complement classical stratification tools for HCC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section General Surgery)
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19 pages, 1976 KiB  
Article
Eudragit® S 100 Coating of Lipid Nanoparticles for Oral Delivery of RNA
by Md. Anamul Haque, Archana Shrestha and George Mattheolabakis
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2477; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082477 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based delivery systems are promising tools for advancing RNA-based therapies. However, there are underlying challenges for the oral delivery of LNPs. In this study, we optimized an LNP formulation, which we encapsulated in a pH-sensitive Eudragit® S 100 (Eu) coating. [...] Read more.
Lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based delivery systems are promising tools for advancing RNA-based therapies. However, there are underlying challenges for the oral delivery of LNPs. In this study, we optimized an LNP formulation, which we encapsulated in a pH-sensitive Eudragit® S 100 (Eu) coating. LNPs were prepared using the DLin-MC3-DMA ionizable lipid, cholesterol, DMG-PEG, and DSPC at a molar ratio of 50:38.5:10:1.5. LNPs were coated with 1% Eu solution via nanoprecipitation using 0.25% acetic acid to get Eu-coated LNPs (Eu-LNPs). Particle characteristics of LNPs were determined by using dynamic light scattering (DLS). Ribogreen and agarose gel retardation assays were used to evaluate nucleic acid entrapment and stability. LNPs and Eu-LNPs were ~120 nm and 4.5 μm in size, respectively. Eu-LNPs decrease to an average size of ~191 ± 22.9 nm at a pH of 8. Phosphate buffer (PB)-treated and untreated Eu-LNPs and uncoated LNPs were transfected in HEK-293 cells. PB-treated Eu-LNPs showed significant transfection capability compared to their non-PB-treated counterparts. Eu-LNPs protected their nucleic acid payloads in the presence of a simulated gastric fluid (SGF) with pepsin and maintained transfection capacity following SGF or simulated intestinal fluid. Hence, Eu coating is a potentially promising approach for the oral administration of LNPs. Full article
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18 pages, 616 KiB  
Article
Noninvasive Assessment of Arterial Wall and Soluble ST2 in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Coronary Artery Disease
by Edyta Radzik, Marcin Schulz, Brygida Przywara-Chowaniec and Andrzej Tomasik
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7561; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157561 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Diabetes-related pathophysiological processes contribute to endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffening (AS), hypertension, vascular remodeling, and impaired myocardial perfusion. This study aimed to assess the relationship between arterial wall parameters and sST2 concentration as potential risk factors in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and investigate sex-related [...] Read more.
Diabetes-related pathophysiological processes contribute to endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffening (AS), hypertension, vascular remodeling, and impaired myocardial perfusion. This study aimed to assess the relationship between arterial wall parameters and sST2 concentration as potential risk factors in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and investigate sex-related differences. To achieve this, we enrolled 100 patients with suspected or exacerbated coronary artery disease (CAD) and divided them into a T2DM group (n = 58) and a control group (n = 42). Endothelial reactivity (lnRHI), ABI, sST2 levels, and carotid–femoral (cfPWV) and carotid–radial pulse wave velocity (crPWV) were assessed. Coronary angiography was performed in every patient, and epicardial flow and myocardial perfusion were evaluated using QuBE and FLASH. Our results showed that the coronary angiographic findings were similar in both groups. However, T2DM patients had a significantly higher central AS (cfPWV 10.8 ± 2 vs. 9.9 ± 2.7 m/s, p < 0.05) and vascular age (70.0 ± 12.3 vs. 61.3 ± 15.4 years, p < 0.05), while peripheral AS, RHI, and ABI showed no differences. CfPWV correlated with renal function; higher HbA1c and sST2 levels were additionally associated with advanced vascular age. Notably, central AS and vascular age were higher in men with T2DM but not in women. These findings indicate that T2DM patients exhibit increased central AS and vascular aging, influenced by sST2 levels, suggesting fibrosis as a target for precision medicine in T2DM. Full article
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22 pages, 7171 KiB  
Article
Distribution Characteristics, Mobility, and Influencing Factors of Heavy Metals at the Sediment–Water Interface in South Dongting Lake
by Xiaohong Fang, Xiangyu Han, Chuanyong Tang, Bo Peng, Qing Peng, Linjie Hu, Yuru Zhong and Shana Shi
Water 2025, 17(15), 2331; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152331 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
South Dongting Lake is an essential aquatic ecosystem that receives substantial water inflows from the Xiangjiang and Zishui Rivers. However, it is significantly impacted by human activities, including mining, smelting, and farming. These activities have led to serious contamination of the lake’s sediments [...] Read more.
South Dongting Lake is an essential aquatic ecosystem that receives substantial water inflows from the Xiangjiang and Zishui Rivers. However, it is significantly impacted by human activities, including mining, smelting, and farming. These activities have led to serious contamination of the lake’s sediments with heavy metals (HMs). This study investigated the distribution, mobility, and influencing factors of HMs at the sediment–water interface. To this end, sediment samples were analyzed from three key regions (Xiangjiang River estuary, Zishui River estuary, and northeastern South Dongting Lake) using traditional sampling methods and Diffusive Gradients in Thin Films (DGT) technology. Analysis of fifteen HMs (Pb, Bi, Ni, As, Se, Cd, Sb, Mn, Zn, V, Cr, Cu, Tl, Co, and Fe) revealed significant spatial heterogeneity. The results showed that Cr, Cu, Pb, Bi, Ni, As, Se, Cd, Sb, Mn, Zn, and Fe exhibited high variability (CV > 0.20), whereas V, Tl, and Co demonstrated stable concentrations (CV < 0.20). Concentrations were found to exceed background values of the upper continental crust of eastern China (UCC), Yangtze River sediments (YZ), and Dongting Lake sediments (DT), particularly at the Xiangjiang estuary (XE) and in the northeastern regions. Speciation analysis revealed that V, Cr, Cu, Ni, and As were predominantly found in the residual fraction (F4), while Pb and Co were concentrated in the oxidizable fraction (F3), Mn and Zn appeared primarily in the exchangeable fractions (F1 and F2), and Cd was notably dominant in the exchangeable fraction (F1), suggesting a high potential for mobility. Additionally, DGT results confirmed a significant potential for the release of Pb, Zn, and Cd. Contamination assessment using the Pollution Load Index (PLI) and Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo) identified Pb, Bi, Ni, As, Se, Cd, and Sb as major pollutants. Among these, Bi and Cd were found to pose the highest risks. Furthermore, the Risk Assessment Code (RAC) and the Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI) highlighted Cd as the primary ecological risk contributor, especially in the XE. The study identified sediment grain size, pH, electrical conductivity, and nutrient levels as the primary influencing factors. The PMF modeling revealed HM sources as mixed smelting/natural inputs, agricultural activities, natural weathering, and mining/smelting operations, suggesting that remediation should prioritize Cd control in the XE with emphasis on external inputs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Quality and Contamination)
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21 pages, 896 KiB  
Article
Insights into FGFR4 (rs351855 and rs7708357) Gene Variants, Ki-67 and p53 in Pituitary Adenoma Pathophysiology
by Martyna Juskiene, Monika Duseikaite, Alvita Vilkeviciute, Egle Kariniauske, Ieva Baikstiene, Jurgita Makstiene, Lina Poskiene, Arimantas Tamasauskas, Rasa Liutkeviciene, Rasa Verkauskiene and Birute Zilaitiene
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7565; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157565 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
To determine the association between FGFR4 (rs351855 and rs7708357) gene variants, serum levels, and immunohistochemical markers (Ki-67 and p53) in pituitary adenoma (PA), a case-control study was conducted involving 300 subjects divided into two groups: the control group (n = 200) and [...] Read more.
To determine the association between FGFR4 (rs351855 and rs7708357) gene variants, serum levels, and immunohistochemical markers (Ki-67 and p53) in pituitary adenoma (PA), a case-control study was conducted involving 300 subjects divided into two groups: the control group (n = 200) and a group of PA (n = 100). The genotyping of FGFR4 rs351855 and rs7708357 was carried out using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. The serum FGFR4 levels were measured using the ELISA method. Immunohistochemical analysis (Ki-67 and p53) was conducted. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 30.0 software. There were no statistically significant differences after analyzing the genotypes and alleles of FGFR4 rs351855 and rs7708357 in patients with PA and control groups (all p > 0.05). After evaluating the distribution of genotypes and alleles of FGFR4 rs351855 and rs7708357 in micro/macro, invasiveness, activity, and recurrence of PA and the control groups, the analysis showed no statistically significant differences between the groups (p > 0.05). Similarly, no significant differences in FGFR4 levels were observed between PA patients and control group (median (IQR): 3642.41 (1755.08) pg/mL vs. 3126.24 (1334.15) pg/mL, p = 0.121). Immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 revealed a labeling index (LI) of <1% in 25.5% of patients with PA, an LI of 1% in 10.9%, and an LI of >1% in 63.6% of patients. Further analyses showed no statistically significant associations with tumor size, invasiveness, activity, or recurrence. Immunohistochemistry for p53 revealed that macroadenomas had a significantly higher p53 H-score compared to microadenomas (median (IQR): 30.33 (28.68) vs. 18.34 (17.65), p = 0.005). Additionally, a moderate, statistically significant positive correlation between the Ki-67 LI and the p53 expression was found (Spearman’s ρ = 0.443, p = 0.003, n = 43). FGFR4 variants and serum protein levels were not significantly associated with PA risk or tumor features. Conversely, immunohistochemical markers Ki-67 and p53 were more informative, with higher p53 expression in macroadenomas and a moderate positive correlation between Ki-67 and p53, highlighting their potential relevance in tumor growth assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism)
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13 pages, 401 KiB  
Article
The Correlation Between Cracked Teeth and National Insurance Coverage of Dental Implants in South Korea: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
by Se Hoon Kahm, YoungHa Shim and SungEun Yang
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5507; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155507 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The expansion of National Health Insurance (NHI) coverage for dental implants in South Korea has substantially increased implant placements among older adults. While implants offer functional and esthetic benefits, their lack of periodontal ligaments alters occlusal force distribution, potentially increasing biomechanical [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The expansion of National Health Insurance (NHI) coverage for dental implants in South Korea has substantially increased implant placements among older adults. While implants offer functional and esthetic benefits, their lack of periodontal ligaments alters occlusal force distribution, potentially increasing biomechanical stress on adjacent or opposing teeth. This study aimed to investigate the association between the increased number of dental implants and the incidence of cracked teeth following the introduction of implant insurance. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using the Clinical Data Warehouse of Seoul St. Mary’s Dental Hospital. Patients who underwent molar crown restorations between 2014 and 2022 were included. The incidence and clinical features of cracked teeth were compared before (2014–2015) and after (2016–2022) the introduction of implant insurance. Statistical analyses assessed differences in symptom presentation, pulp status, and treatment outcomes. Results: Among 5044 molars restored with crowns, 1692 were diagnosed with cracks. The incidence of cracked teeth significantly increased after NHI coverage for implants (25.5% vs. 32.6%, p < 0.001). Cases after insurance implementation showed fewer signs and symptoms at initial presentation (67.4% vs. 50.0%, p < 0.001), reduced irreversible pulpitis (37.2% vs. 25.8%, p < 0.001), and increased preservation of pulp vitality (46.9% vs. 57.8%, p < 0.001). These shifts may reflect changes in occlusal adjustment practices and earlier clinical intervention. Conclusions: The findings suggest a temporal link between increased implant placement and the rising incidence of cracked teeth. Implant-induced occlusal changes may contribute to this trend. Careful occlusal evaluation and follow-up are essential after implant placement, and further prospective studies are warranted to confirm causality and refine prevention strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress in Osseointegrated Oral Implants)
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15 pages, 1228 KiB  
Review
Antimicrobial Effect of Graphene in Dentistry: A Scoping Review
by Ricardo Martuci, Susana João Oliveira, Mateus Martuci, José Reis-Campos and Maria Helena Figueiral
Dent. J. 2025, 13(8), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13080355 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The functionalization of various forms of graphene, such as graphene nanoplatelets, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide, in biomaterials is a promising strategy in dentistry, particularly regarding their antimicrobial potential. However, conclusive studies on the toxicity and biocompatibility of graphene-based materials [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The functionalization of various forms of graphene, such as graphene nanoplatelets, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide, in biomaterials is a promising strategy in dentistry, particularly regarding their antimicrobial potential. However, conclusive studies on the toxicity and biocompatibility of graphene-based materials remain limited, and standardized guidelines for their production, handling, and dental applications are still lacking. This scoping review aims to map the available studies on various types of graphene, synthesize evidence on their antimicrobial effectiveness, and describe the main biological responses when functionalized in dental biomaterials. Methods: An electronic search was conducted in the Clarivate, PubMed, and Scopus databases using the descriptors as follows: ‘graphene’ AND ‘antimicrobial effect’ AND ‘bactericidal effect’ AND (‘graphene oxide’ OR ‘dental biofilm’ OR ‘antibacterial properties’ OR ‘dental materials’). Article screening and eligibility assessment were performed based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Results: The search identified 793 articles. After removing duplicates, applying the eligibility criteria, and performing a full-text analysis of 64 articles, 21 studies were included in the review. Graphene oxide, particularly at low concentrations, was the most commonly studied graphene variant, demonstrating significant antimicrobial efficacy against S. mutans, S. faecalis, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans. Both mechanical and chemical mechanisms have been linked to the biological responses of graphene-doped biomaterials. The biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of these compounds remain controversial, with some studies reporting favorable outcomes, while others raise significant concerns. Conclusions: Graphene shows great promise as an antimicrobial agent in dental biomaterials. Despite encouraging results, more in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to better understand its biocompatibility and cytotoxicity in dental applications. Additionally, standardized production protocols, clearly defined clinical applications in dentistry, and regulatory guidelines from the World Health Organization concerning handling procedures and occupational risks remain necessary. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry)
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