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16 pages, 1122 KB  
Article
Molecular Epidemiology, Hematobiochemical Alterations, and Oxidative Stress-Induced Genotoxicity of Equine Trypanosomiasis in Pakistan
by Waqas Ahmad, Naeem Rasool, Qurat ul Ain, Usama Bin Naeem, Muhammad Azeem, Umbreen Anwar, Tehreem Fayyaz, Zeba Amjad, Muhammad Yasin Tipu and Mehmood Ahmad
Microbiol. Res. 2026, 17(5), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres17050086 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2026
Abstract
Trypanosoma evansi (T. evansi) infection poses a significant health threat to equines. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence, risk factors, hematobiochemical alterations, and oxidative stress-mediated genotoxicity associated with equine trypanosomiasis in the Rahim Yar Khan District. This cross-sectional study [...] Read more.
Trypanosoma evansi (T. evansi) infection poses a significant health threat to equines. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence, risk factors, hematobiochemical alterations, and oxidative stress-mediated genotoxicity associated with equine trypanosomiasis in the Rahim Yar Khan District. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 384 equines from October 2024 to September 2025. Blood samples were collected for thin blood film microscopy and PCR assay using RoTat 1.2 primers. Hematological indices were analyzed with an automated hematology analyzer; serum biochemical parameters were quantified via standard assays. Oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH), were also measured. Genotoxicity was evaluated using the alkaline comet assay. Statistical analyses included the chi-square test, logistic regression, and independent t-tests. T. evansi was detected in 5.99% of samples by microscopy and 10.16% by PCR, with no significant association with species, age, or sex. Infected equines exhibited significant reductions in hemoglobin (5.4 ± 0.6 vs. 10.8 ± 0.5 g/dL; p < 0.0001), total serum protein (2.1 ± 0.3 vs. 5.8 ± 0.2 g/dL; p < 0.0001), albumin, and globulin, alongside elevated hepatic enzymes, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine (all p < 0.01). Oxidative stress was confirmed by increased MDA (p < 0.0001) and decreased CAT activity (p < 0.001). Genotoxicity was significantly higher in infected animals (genetic damage index; 1.12 ± 0.08 vs. 0.40 ± 0.01; p < 0.01). This study provides the first integrated assessment of molecular epidemiology and oxidative stress-mediated genotoxicity in equines in this region, suggesting the pathogenic impact of the infection and targeted diagnostics for disease management strategies. Full article
21 pages, 27653 KB  
Article
Field Phenotyping of Triticale Overwintering Dynamics Under Varied Sowing Practices Using Spectral Indices
by Wenjun Gao, Xiaofeng Cao, Mengyu Sun, Ruyu Li, Tile Huang and Weiyue Ma
Agronomy 2026, 16(9), 880; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16090880 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2026
Abstract
This study aims to enhance the early warning and monitoring of frost damage in triticale (×Triticosecale Wittmack), as well as to identify frost-tolerant materials. To this end, this work focused on phenotyping the dynamics of triticale under different damage intensities using [...] Read more.
This study aims to enhance the early warning and monitoring of frost damage in triticale (×Triticosecale Wittmack), as well as to identify frost-tolerant materials. To this end, this work focused on phenotyping the dynamics of triticale under different damage intensities using spectral indices. Sixteen triticale genotypes were planted under three sowing date (SD) treatments, with three sowing rate (SR) gradients set for each SD. The multispectral data of triticale under six frost damage intensities were acquired using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform. A total of eight spectral indices (SIs) were extracted from samples under each intensity. In general, for each combination of SD and SR, all SIs decreased monotonically with increasing damage intensity. These indices are therefore suitable for monitoring frost damage in triticale under complex sowing scenarios. Under early frost damage, the relative decline rates (RDRs) of the SRI (Simple Ratio Vegetation Index), EVI2 (Enhanced Vegetation Index 2), NIRv (Near-Infrared Reflectance of Vegetation), and GLI (Green Leaf Index) were higher than those of other indices, indicating that they are more sensitive to early frost damage and thus more suitable for frost warning. Under frost stress, the RDRs of the indices were higher in early-sown samples than in late-sown samples. SD plays a more significant role than SR in determining the response of triticale indices to frost damage. Models were developed to detect triticale under varying damage intensities with SIs and classification algorithms—XGBoost, Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (QDA), Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM). The SVM classifier demonstrated the best generalization performance (overall accuracy: 98.03%; F1-score: 0.98). The detection contributions of indices within the optimal model were evaluated by their respective SHAP (Shapley Additive Explanations) values. The GLI, NIRv, NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), and GNDVI (Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) were identified as key indices, as they exhibit higher cumulative SHAP values. Identification models for triticale with different frost tolerance levels were established based on the time-series data of these key indices and the above four algorithms. The optimal model based on the SVM algorithm achieved an identification accuracy exceeding 90%. The average overwintering dynamics and frost damage responses of the key indices were analyzed for triticale with different frost tolerance levels under all treatments. Under frost stress, these indices and their RDRs in frost-tolerant triticale were generally higher and lower, respectively, than those in frost-sensitive triticale. These four key indices can thus assist in the identification of frost tolerance in triticale. This study aids in the early warning and monitoring of frost damage in triticale under complex planting scenarios and the evaluation of overwintering performance in triticale germplasm. Full article
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19 pages, 481 KB  
Article
Long-Term Outcome of Patients with a Floating Hip Injury of Müller Type A: An Analysis of Prognostic Factors Linked to Functional Outcomes
by Beytullah Unat, Cagrı Karabulut, Musa Alperen Bilgin, Ramazan Erol, Ilkan Kisi, Ibrahim Halil Rızvanoglu and Nevzat Gönder
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(9), 3321; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15093321 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: A floating hip injury, defined as an ipsilateral fracture of the pelvis or acetabulum combined with a femoral fracture, represents a rare and devastating musculoskeletal injury resulting from high-energy trauma. Although Müller type A floating hip injuries comprising an acetabular fracture [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: A floating hip injury, defined as an ipsilateral fracture of the pelvis or acetabulum combined with a femoral fracture, represents a rare and devastating musculoskeletal injury resulting from high-energy trauma. Although Müller type A floating hip injuries comprising an acetabular fracture with an ipsilateral femoral fracture are recognized for their clinical complexity, the long-term prognostic factors influencing functional outcomes remain poorly elucidated. This study aimed to identify independent prognostic factors associated with unsatisfactory long-term functional outcomes in patients with Müller type A floating hip injuries. Methods: A retrospective study was performed on 68 consecutive patients with Müller type A floating hip injuries who underwent surgical fixation at a single tertiary trauma center, with a minimum follow-up period of 5 years. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Majeed score, and patients were dichotomized into satisfactory (n = 48; 70.6%) and unsatisfactory (n = 20; 29.4%) outcome groups. Acetabular fractures were classified according to the Judet–Letournel system, and femoral fractures were classified by fracture level (proximal, shaft, or distal). Radiological outcomes were evaluated using Matta’s radiological grading system. Demographic, injury-specific, and treatment-related variables were compared between groups using the Mann–Whitney U test and chi-square test with Bonferroni correction. A multivariate binary logistic regression model was constructed to determine independent predictors of unsatisfactory outcomes. Results: The mean age was 37.15 ± 12.07 years, with a male predominance (67.6%). The predominant mechanism of injury was pedestrian struck by vehicle (54.4%), followed by motor vehicle collision (27.9%) and fall from height (17.6%); collectively, high-energy vehicular trauma accounted for 82.3% of cases. In the univariate analysis, transverse with posterior wall acetabular fracture pattern (p = 0.001), proximal femur fracture level (p = 0.001), associated lower extremity fractures (p = 0.001), nerve damage (p = 0.001), higher body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.001), and lower Matta’s radiological scores (p = 0.001) were significantly associated with unsatisfactory outcomes. Three independent predictors emerged in the multivariate logistic regression: BMI (OR = 1.50; 95% CI: 1.05–2.15; p = 0.025), the presence of associated lower extremity fractures (OR = 29.02; 95% CI: 2.83–297.67; p = 0.005), and Matta’s radiological score (OR = 0.06; 95% CI: 0.01–0.56; p = 0.014). The model yielded internal discriminatory metrics within the acceptable range (overall accuracy 89.7%, sensitivity 95.8%, specificity 75.0%, Nagelkerke R2 = 0.757); however, given the limited events-per-variable ratio (~6.7) and the wide confidence intervals observed for some predictors, these internal performance estimates are likely optimistic due to potential overfitting, and the findings should be interpreted as exploratory pending external validation. Conclusions: Elevated BMI, the presence of associated ipsilateral lower extremity fractures, and poor quality of acetabular reduction, assessed via Matta’s radiological criteria, are independent determinants of unsatisfactory long-term functional outcomes in Müller type A floating hip injuries. These findings underscore the critical importance of achieving anatomical reduction in the acetabulum and highlight the compounding effect of additional ipsilateral limb injuries on patient prognosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acute Management and Surgical Strategies in Orthopedic Trauma)
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8 pages, 3447 KB  
Proceeding Paper
Vibration-Based Damage Detection and Localisation on a Trainer Jet Aircraft Wing
by Gabriele Dessena, Marco Civera, Andrés Marcos, Bernardino Chiaia and Oscar E. Bonilla-Manrique
Eng. Proc. 2026, 133(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2026133044 - 27 Apr 2026
Abstract
Damage detection and identification are important for many aerospace and aeronautical structures. Vibration-based methods check changes in modal parameters, such as natural frequencies and mode shapes, usually indicating damage. For large structures, comparing each mode and parameter separately is impractical. This study proposes [...] Read more.
Damage detection and identification are important for many aerospace and aeronautical structures. Vibration-based methods check changes in modal parameters, such as natural frequencies and mode shapes, usually indicating damage. For large structures, comparing each mode and parameter separately is impractical. This study proposes the modified total modal assurance criterion (MTMAC) as a single index for damage detection. To provide localisation, MTMAC is paired with the coordinate modal assurance criterion (COMAC), a standard tool for locating damage using mode shapes. Accurate modal identification is required to support structural health monitoring (SHM). For this purpose, the recently introduced improved Loewner Framework (iLF) is used. Noting that this is its first application to SHM, its performance on an undamaged BAE Systems Hawk T1A jet trainer wing is compared with literature results. Then, the iLF is applied to damaged states of the same airframe. In all cases, the aircraft vibration testing is carried out under multiple-input, multiple-output conditions. The identified modal sets are used to compute the MTMAC for detection and severity, and COMAC for localisation. Results show that the iLF provides robust modal identification for SHM and that the MTMAC effectively detects damage. Full article
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15 pages, 689 KB  
Review
Categories of Aortic Stenosis: What’s New and the Clinical Implications
by Jamie Sin Ying Ho, Gerlyn Zhixuan Wong, Aaron Kwun Hang Ho, Aloysius S. T. Leow, Joy Yi-Shan Ong, William Kong, Swee Chye Quek, Andrew Fu Wah Ho, Ching Hui Sia, Hoai Thi Thu Nguyen, Tiong Cheng Yeo and Kian Keong Poh
Medicina 2026, 62(5), 819; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62050819 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2026
Viewed by 76
Abstract
Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is assessed by echocardiography in clinical practice. Conventionally, the aortic valve area, peak transaortic valve velocity/gradient and the mean transvalvular gradient determine if the AS is categorized as mild, moderate or severe. Recently, the entity of paradoxical low-flow, low-gradient [...] Read more.
Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is assessed by echocardiography in clinical practice. Conventionally, the aortic valve area, peak transaortic valve velocity/gradient and the mean transvalvular gradient determine if the AS is categorized as mild, moderate or severe. Recently, the entity of paradoxical low-flow, low-gradient AS despite normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was described and flow (as determined by stroke volume indexed to body surface area) was used to further categorize AS. The new European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) guidelines in 2025 recommended a new phenotype-based classification, which improved the prognostication of AS. There are now five phenotypes: (1) concordant high-gradient AS; (2) low-flow, low-gradient AS with reduced LVEF; (3) low-flow, low-gradient AS with preserved LVEF; (4) normal-flow, low-gradient AS with preserved LVEF; and (5) discordant high-gradient AS. These appear to have different underlying pathophysiology, and hence prognostication and therapy. In addition, categories of AS in the setting of reduced LVEF are further divided based on their responses to dobutamine or exercise stress, which may result in different therapeutic strategies. In the transaortic valvular replacement (TAVR) versus the surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) era, the classification of these AS groups may have differing implications on the appropriate interventions. Furthermore, there are investigations on the effect of AS on the left ventricle and other chambers and stages of AS based on the extent of cardiac damage, which may have important prognostic value post-AVR. On the other spectrum, there are new developments in imaging analysis, such as using artificial intelligence. This state-of-the-art paper will comprehensively review the important updates in AS and its clinical implications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
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15 pages, 1952 KB  
Article
Selective Cytogenetic Responses to Nano-Fertilizer Co-Exposure in Allium cepa L.: Implications for Sublethal Phytotoxicity in Agroecosystems
by Olivia Torres-Bugarín, Alejandro Sánchez-González, María Luisa Ramos-Ibarra, Idalia Yazmín Castañeda-Yslas, Nina Bogdanchikova, Alexey Pestryakov and María Evarista Arellano-García
J. Xenobiot. 2026, 16(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox16030071 - 24 Apr 2026
Viewed by 178
Abstract
The intensive use of agricultural inputs and the increasing incorporation of nano-materials into crop management practices raise concerns about their ecotoxicological interactions in plant systems. This study evaluated phytotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity in Allium cepa L. under experimental nano-agrochemical exposure scenarios combining two [...] Read more.
The intensive use of agricultural inputs and the increasing incorporation of nano-materials into crop management practices raise concerns about their ecotoxicological interactions in plant systems. This study evaluated phytotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity in Allium cepa L. under experimental nano-agrochemical exposure scenarios combining two conventional nitrogen fertilizers—ammonium sulfate (AS) and urea—with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Biological responses were assessed across fertilizer concentrations (0.03–0.5 g/L), applied individually, simultaneously, and sequentially, to identify modulatory effects of AgNPs on plant proliferative activity and genomic stability. Results showed the relative stability of morphophysiological indicators associated with root growth, whereas cytogenetic biomarkers exhibited selective alterations under specific conditions. Significant increases in genetic damage markers were detected at intermediate ammonium sulfate concentrations, suggesting sublethal phytotoxicity windows not reflected by macroscopic growth parameters. In addition, modulation of the mitotic index and absence of generalized genotoxic effects in most combined or sequential treatments indicate that AgNPs primarily acted as modulators of proliferative responses rather than direct cytotoxic agents. Overall, these findings highlight the dynamic and non-linear nature of nano-agrochemical interactions in plant systems and underscore the importance of multibiomarker approaches for the early detection of genomic instability. The results provide experimental evidence relevant to the environmental risk assessment of nano-enabled fertilization strategies under realistic mixed-exposure scenarios. This study contributes to advancing the ecotoxicological understanding of emerging agricultural technologies and supports the need for further mechanistic research and field-based evaluations to guide the safe and sustainable use of nanomaterials in crop production. Full article
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24 pages, 1178 KB  
Article
Productivity of Kapia Pepper and Successive Leafy Greens in an Organic Cropping System Under Different Nutrient Management Strategies with Chlorella vulgaris Foliar Application
by Orsolya Papp, Nuri Nurlaila Setiawan, Katalin Allacherné Szépkuthy, Flóra Pászti-Milibák, Attila Ombódi, Ilona Kaponyás, Ferenc Tóth and Dóra Drexler
Horticulturae 2026, 12(5), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12050527 (registering DOI) - 24 Apr 2026
Viewed by 440
Abstract
Optimizing nutrient management in organic polytunnel production remains challenging due to the limited availability of field-based knowledge on the mineralization dynamics of organic fertilizers. At the same time, microalgae-based products such as Chlorella vulgaris have gained increasing attention in recent research, yet their [...] Read more.
Optimizing nutrient management in organic polytunnel production remains challenging due to the limited availability of field-based knowledge on the mineralization dynamics of organic fertilizers. At the same time, microalgae-based products such as Chlorella vulgaris have gained increasing attention in recent research, yet their interactions with nutrient supply intensity are not well understood. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of increasing nutrient supply intensities (34, 116, and 189 kg ha−1 N from different organic sources), in combination with C. vulgaris foliar application, on the crop performance of kapia pepper and a subsequent leafy green crop under on-farm organic polytunnel conditions on soil with moderate organic matter content. Increasing production intensity did not result in significant improvements in pepper yield or vegetative biomass (p > 0.05), and no significant residual effects of nutrient supply were detected in the yield of the subsequent leafy green crop (p: 0.08–0.94). C. vulgaris treatment showed predominantly non-significant but positive trends in several parameters, but only in combination with high-intensity technology, while reducing the total pest damage of the thrips and stinkbug index up to 15.7% in most technology variations. These results indicate that the effects of C. vulgaris may be strongly context-dependent and confirm that increasing the intensity of nutrient supply may carry the risks of conventionalization of organic farming practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)
22 pages, 4261 KB  
Article
Nephrotoxicity of Evodiamine in Mice: Mechanistic Insights from Integrated Network Toxicology and Transcriptomic Profiling
by Xuehua Zhang, Yue Pan, Yuanyuan Xiao, Ziyan Wu, Huilan Yang, Yanjun Liu, Yan Wang, Tianqi Chen and Wenchao Tang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(9), 3793; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27093793 - 24 Apr 2026
Viewed by 78
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the nephrotoxicity and molecular mechanism of Evodiamine (EVO). We combined RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and network toxicology (NT) screening of potential target genes and signaling pathways, used molecular docking to validate core targets, and detected the [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the nephrotoxicity and molecular mechanism of Evodiamine (EVO). We combined RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and network toxicology (NT) screening of potential target genes and signaling pathways, used molecular docking to validate core targets, and detected the mRNA expression of the key genes through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). After exposure to EVO, body weight of mice decreased significantly, and the levels of renal index, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine (Cr) were significantly increased, with varying degrees of pathological damage to the kidneys. NT identified 125 intersecting targets of EVO exposure related to kidney injury, including AKT1, TNF, TP53, etc. Among the 2888 differentially expressed genes obtained from RNA-seq, 504 genes were up-regulated and 2384 genes were down-regulated. By integrating NT and RNA-seq, 24 intersecting targets were identified. Among them, TRPV1, NOS3, HSP90AA1, and PPARG were selected for molecular docking validation. The results indicated that EVO had the highest affinity for PPARG (−8.07 kcal/mol). The qRT-PCR results indicated that the expression of the Pparg and Hsp90aa1 genes was significantly down-regulated, and the expression of the Nos3 and Trpv1 genes was significantly up-regulated. Immunohistochemistry further confirmed that EVO inhibited the expression of HSP90AA1 and PPARG, while enhancing that of TRPV1 and NOS3. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis suggested that EVO-induced nephrotoxicity is related to signaling pathways such as inflammatory mediator regulation of TRP channels, the PPAR signaling pathway, and the Apelin signaling pathway. In summary, the nephrotoxic effect of EVO may be related to the inhibition of the PPARG signaling pathway, the activation of the TRPV1 channel, the reduction in HSP90AA1 expression, and the imbalance of the Apelin-NOS3 pathway. This study provides a theoretical reference for clarifying the potential mechanism of renal injury caused by EVO and guiding its safe use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Compounds: Impact on Health and Diseases)
18 pages, 1456 KB  
Article
Therapeutic Potential of Kinkeliba (Combretum micranthum G. Don) Ethanolic Extract in Chronic DSS-Induced Colitis
by Ibrahima Mamadou Sall, Meriem Aziez, Dragoş Hodor, Alina Diana Haşaş, Mara-Georgiana Haralambie, Semzenisi Ecaterina, Alexia-Teodora Hoța and Alexandru-Flaviu Tăbăran
Molecules 2026, 31(9), 1401; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31091401 - 23 Apr 2026
Viewed by 185
Abstract
Background: Kinkeliba (Combretum micranthum G. Don), commonly used in West African traditional pharmacopeia for its anti-inflammatory and gastrointestinal properties, remains poorly studied regarding its potential role in the prevention or treatment of ulcerative colitis. Objective: This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of [...] Read more.
Background: Kinkeliba (Combretum micranthum G. Don), commonly used in West African traditional pharmacopeia for its anti-inflammatory and gastrointestinal properties, remains poorly studied regarding its potential role in the prevention or treatment of ulcerative colitis. Objective: This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of the ethanolic extract of Combretum micranthum (EECM) in a murine model of chronic DSS-induced colitis. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to three cycles of 1.5% DSS administration over nine weeks to induce chronic colitis. EECM was administered orally at 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg during the final week. Disease severity was evaluated using the Disease Activity Index (DAI), colon length, biochemical and hematological markers, along with histopathological and immunohistochemical assessment of colonic tissue. Results: EECM treatment significantly improved clinical parameters and prevented colon shortening in chronic DSS-induced colitis. These improvements were associated with the restoration of serum biochemical and hematological profiles, along with reduced histopathological damage and preservation of colonic tissue architecture. Immunohistochemical analysis further demonstrated decreased CD3-positive T-lymphocyte infiltration in colonic tissue, suggesting modulation of local immune cell responses. Conclusions: These findings highlight the therapeutic potential EECM in ulcerative colitis and support further investigations to elucidate its mechanisms of action and evaluate its efficacy in future translational studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Opportunities of Natural Products in Drug Discovery)
15 pages, 776 KB  
Article
DNA Damage Across Dietary Patterns: A Comet Assay Study in Vegans and Omnivores
by Ines Peremin, Marko Gerić, Ivone Jakasa and Goran Gajski
Foods 2026, 15(9), 1477; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15091477 - 23 Apr 2026
Viewed by 215
Abstract
Plant-based diets are generally associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases; however, the relationship between a vegan diet and genome integrity remains insufficiently characterized. In this cross-sectional study, we assessed primary DNA damage in peripheral blood cells of vegans and omnivores. A [...] Read more.
Plant-based diets are generally associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases; however, the relationship between a vegan diet and genome integrity remains insufficiently characterized. In this cross-sectional study, we assessed primary DNA damage in peripheral blood cells of vegans and omnivores. A total of 62 apparently healthy adults were included: 31 vegans (median vegan diet duration 4.5 years) and 31 omnivores matched for sex and smoking status. DNA damage was assessed using the alkaline comet assay under standardized conditions and expressed as tail intensity (% tail DNA), tail length, tail moment, and total comet area. Tail intensity was significantly higher in vegans than in omnivores (B = 1.98; 95% CI 0.19 to 3.76; p = 0.031) after adjustment for age, physical activity, body mass index (BMI), and alcohol consumption. Within the vegan group, longer duration of adherence to a vegan diet was positively associated with tail intensity, independent of age (B = 0.23; 95% CI 0.03 to 0.43; p = 0.026). These findings suggest that adherence to a vegan diet and its duration may be associated with higher levels of primary DNA damage; however, these results should be interpreted with caution given the observational design and modest sample size. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)
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19 pages, 2212 KB  
Article
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Placental Growth Factor in Conjunction with Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-1 May Exert Dual Effects Within the Kidney and Brain in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Normoalbuminuric Diabetic Kidney Disease
by Ligia Petrica, Florica Gadalean, Adrian Vlad, Daliborca Vlad, Victor Dumitrascu, Tutac Paul, Flaviu Bob, Oana Milas, Anca Suteanu-Simulescu, Mihaela Glavan, Sorin Ursoniu, Lavinia Balint-Marcu, Maria Mogos-Stefan, Silvia Ienciu, Octavian Marius Cretu, Roxana Popescu, Cristina Gluhovschi, Lavinia Iancu and Dragos Catalin Jianu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(9), 3752; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27093752 - 23 Apr 2026
Viewed by 101
Abstract
The kidney and the brain share similarities in terms of structure and haemodynamic regime. The aim of the study was to assess a potential correlation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (sFlt-1), and placental growth factor (PlGF) [...] Read more.
The kidney and the brain share similarities in terms of structure and haemodynamic regime. The aim of the study was to assess a potential correlation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (sFlt-1), and placental growth factor (PlGF) with biomarkers of podocyte damage, proximal tubular (PT) dysfunction, and endothelial dysfunction, as well as with cerebral vessels haemodynamic indices in neurologic asymptomatic type 2 DM patients. A cohort of 212 patients diagnosed with type 2 DM and 49 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Parameters studied were urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR), biomarkers of podocyte damage (synaptopodin, podocalyxin), PT dysfunction (kidney injury molecule-1-KIM-1, N-acetyl-β-(D)-glucosaminidase-NAG), endothelial dysfunction (P-selectin), VEGF, sFlt-1, and PlGF. The cerebrovascular hemodynamic indices evaluated were intima–media thickness (IMT) in the common carotid arteries (CCAs), the pulsatility index (PI), and the resistivity index (RI) in the internal carotid arteries (ICAs) and middle cerebral arteries (MCAs). Cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) was assessed by the breath-holding index (BHI). In multivariable regression analysis, serum VEGF correlated directly with UACR, synaptopodin, NAG, serum P-selectin; serum sFlt-1 correlated directly with UACR, synaptopodin, podocalyxin, NAG, KIM-1; serum PlGF correlated negatively with eGFR and directly with UACR, synaptopodin, KIM-1. IMT-CCA correlated indirectly with eGFR and directly with UACR, serum P-selectin, and serum sFlt-1. The PI-ICAs correlated negatively with eGFR and positively with UACR, synaptopodin, serum P-selectin, and serum sFlt-1. The PI-MCAs correlated indirectly with eGFR and directly with synaptopodin, serum P-selectin, and serum sFlt-1. The RI-ICAs had a negative correlation with eGFR and a positive one with UACR, synaptopodin, NAG, KIM-1, urinary sFlt-1, and serum PlGF. The RI-MCAs displayed an indirect correlation with eGFR and a direct correlation with NAG, KIM-1, and serum sFlt-1. The BHT correlated directly with eGFR and negatively with serum P-selectin and serum PlGF. The study shows a significant association of VEGF, sFlt-1, and PlGF with biomarkers of podocyte injury, PT dysfunction, and endothelial dysfunction in early stages of DKD. These pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors correlated with cerebrovascular haemodynamic indices in neurologic asymptomatic type 2 DM, even in the normoalbuminuric stage of diabetic kidney disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Aspects of Diabetes and Its Complications)
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27 pages, 19340 KB  
Article
Integrating Surface Deformation and Ecological Indicators for Mining Environment Assessment: A Novel MDECI Approach
by Lei Zhang, Qiaomei Su, Bin Zhang, Hongwen Xue, Zhengkang Zuo, Yanpeng Li and He Zheng
Remote Sens. 2026, 18(9), 1272; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18091272 - 22 Apr 2026
Viewed by 251
Abstract
Surface subsidence induced by underground coal mining is a primary driver of ecological degradation. The traditional Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI), however, struggles to capture surface deformation constraints and vegetation response lags. To address this, we developed a Mining Deformation–Ecology Coupling Index (MDECI). [...] Read more.
Surface subsidence induced by underground coal mining is a primary driver of ecological degradation. The traditional Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI), however, struggles to capture surface deformation constraints and vegetation response lags. To address this, we developed a Mining Deformation–Ecology Coupling Index (MDECI). This index integrates Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR)-monitored surface stability with multi-spectral indicators via Principal Component Analysis (PCA). We applied this method to the Datong Coalfield, China, using 231 Sentinel-1A SAR scenes and 8 Landsat images (2017–2024) to validate the effectiveness of the index. Meanwhile, we systematically analyzed non-linear response mechanisms, the Ecological Turning Point (ETP), and spatial clustering characteristics. The results demonstrate the following: (1) InSAR and MDECI effectively identified patterns of surface subsidence and ecological decline. Subsidence centers expanded to a maximum of −2085 mm, causing the mean MDECI in these areas to drop to 0.185 (<−1800 mm). This represents a 57.4% decrease relative to the regional average (0.434). (2) MDECI outperformed traditional models with a stable Average Correlation Coefficient (ACC) (0.63–0.75) and high cross-correlation coefficients with RSEI (0.906) and the Mine-specific Eco-environment Index (MSEEI) (0.931). During the 2018 drought, MDECI maintained a robust ACC of 0.628 while RSEI dropped to 0.482. (3) Multi-scale analysis revealed a unimodal MDECI response with an ETP at −100 mm. Initial ‘micro-disturbance gain’ (0.371 to 0.471) is followed by a progressive decline to a minimum of 0.185 under severe deformation. (4) Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) spatial clustering characterized the distribution patterns of ecological damage and localised high-maintenance areas. High–Low damaged areas accounted for 5.09%, while High–High high-maintenance areas reached 9.00%. The scale of High–High areas was approximately 1.77 times that of the damaged areas. The MDECI addresses the deficiencies of traditional indices in high-disturbance areas and isolates the impact of mining on the ecology, providing a quantitative basis for risk identification and differentiated restoration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensing in Geology, Geomorphology and Hydrology)
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18 pages, 3304 KB  
Article
Phloretin Protects Goat Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Against Ferroptosis by Regulating the Nrf2/HO-1/GPX4 Signaling Pathway
by Yunan He, Minjuan Li, Zhongfa Wang, Chuanying Pan, Xianyong Lan and Weijun Guan
Animals 2026, 16(9), 1286; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16091286 (registering DOI) - 22 Apr 2026
Viewed by 204
Abstract
Ferroptosis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a critical bottleneck restricting the efficiency of ruminant biological breeding. Phloretin, a natural bioactive polyphenol, exhibits potential ferroptosis-inhibitory activity. However, the regulatory effects and underlying mechanisms of phloretin on ruminant MSCs remain poorly understood. This study [...] Read more.
Ferroptosis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a critical bottleneck restricting the efficiency of ruminant biological breeding. Phloretin, a natural bioactive polyphenol, exhibits potential ferroptosis-inhibitory activity. However, the regulatory effects and underlying mechanisms of phloretin on ruminant MSCs remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of phloretin on ferroptosis and elucidate its underlying molecular mechanisms. Herein, we isolated and cultured adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) from adipose tissue of a 9-day-old Leizhou goat and established a ferroptosis model in these cells using RSL3. We detected cell viability, proliferation, migration, ferroptosis-related indexes and key protein expression. The results showed that phloretin (25 and 50 μM) dose-dependently inhibited ferroptosis in goat AD-MSCs, reducing intracellular ferrous ion (Fe2+), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation levels, restoring glutathione content, and ameliorating mitochondrial structural damage. Mechanistically, phloretin exerted its anti-ferroptosis effects through direct antioxidant activity, activation of the Nrf2/HO-1/GPX4 signaling pathway and Fe2+ chelation. Nrf2 and GPX4 were key targets in this process. These results provide preliminary in vitro evidence and a theoretical basis for the potential application of phloretin in future research related to meat goat production and ruminant breeding. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Breeding for Enhancing Production Traits in Ruminants)
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48 pages, 17861 KB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review of Ship Collision Risk Assessment and Safety Index Development
by Muhamad Imam Firdaus, Muhammad Badrus Zaman and Raja Oloan Saut Gurning
Safety 2026, 12(2), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety12020057 - 21 Apr 2026
Viewed by 171
Abstract
Ship collision accidents remain a critical concern in maritime safety because of their potential to cause operational disruption as well as environmental and economic damage in areas with dense shipping activity. Complex traffic interactions, differences in vessel characteristics, and dynamic environmental conditions make [...] Read more.
Ship collision accidents remain a critical concern in maritime safety because of their potential to cause operational disruption as well as environmental and economic damage in areas with dense shipping activity. Complex traffic interactions, differences in vessel characteristics, and dynamic environmental conditions make collision risk increasingly difficult to manage using traditional navigation measures alone. This paper presents a structured review of ship collision research, focusing on collision impacts, collision avoidance strategies, risk assessment methodologies, and safety index development. The review synthesizes reported collision cases and their environmental consequences, examines commonly used analytical frameworks including probabilistic, data-driven, and multicriteria approaches, and discusses recent developments in AIS-based analysis, sensor-based monitoring, and intelligent prediction techniques. The analysis identifies several methodological gaps in existing studies. Collision avoidance methods and risk assessment models are often developed independently, while their integration with safety index frameworks remains limited. In addition, safety index formulations differ considerably in terms of indicator selection and modeling approaches, which reduces comparability between studies conducted in different waterways. The findings highlight how different analytical approaches contribute to maritime safety evaluation at strategic, operational, and real-time levels and provide insights for developing more integrated safety assessment frameworks to support navigation risk monitoring in high-traffic maritime environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transportation Safety and Crash Avoidance Research)
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26 pages, 87007 KB  
Article
Investigating the Evolution of Active Deformation Areas (ADAs) in the Veneto-Friulian Plain Using Multi-Platform SAR Data
by Junaid Khan, Ascanio Rosi, Filippo Catani, Hamza Daud, Muhammad Afaq Hussain, Dong Yingbo and Mario Floris
Remote Sens. 2026, 18(8), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18081252 - 21 Apr 2026
Viewed by 266
Abstract
Coastal alluvial plains underlain by unconsolidated deposits are prone to land subsidence, a geohazard that can damage infrastructure and alter drainage patterns. One such example is the Venetian–Friulian coastal plain (NE Italy), where natural sediment compaction and anthropogenic activities have led to ground [...] Read more.
Coastal alluvial plains underlain by unconsolidated deposits are prone to land subsidence, a geohazard that can damage infrastructure and alter drainage patterns. One such example is the Venetian–Friulian coastal plain (NE Italy), where natural sediment compaction and anthropogenic activities have led to ground deformation across multiple zones. From this perspective, this study presents a 30-year analysis of land subsidence across the Venetian–Friulian plain, particularly highlighting municipalities such as Portogruaro, Concordia Sagittaria, San Stino di Livenza, Eraclea, and Caorle. The dataset comprises multi-source SAR data from ERS, Envisat, COSMO-SkyMed (CSK), Sentinel-1, and the European Ground Motion Service (EGMS), covering the period from 1992 to 2021. The study integrates multi-platform SAR observations with ADAFinder-based extraction of Active Deformation Areas (ADAs), data quality evaluation using the Quality Index (QI), building-scale analysis based on LOS-derived vertical displacement time series, and orthophotos to confirm the building’s presence and evolution. By using the adopted extraction thresholds, a total of 57, 16, 83, 33, and 72 ADAs were identified from the ERS, ENVISAT, COSMO-SkyMed, Sentinel-1, and EGMS datasets, respectively. The result suggests that the strongest deformation occurred during the earlier observation periods in Zones 1 to 3, then progressively stabilized, whereas some parts of Zone 4 remained active and showed renewed deformation during the later periods. The research highlights the importance of conducting long-term analysis using multi-platform interferometric datasets to refine and personalize outcomes in geohazard monitoring. The findings from this research offer invaluable insights into the ongoing surveillance of geohazards, which are progressively related to urban development and planning. Full article
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