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12 pages, 1076 KiB  
Article
Rapid Identification of the SNP Mutation in the ABCD4 Gene and Its Association with Multi-Vertebrae Phenotypes in Ujimqin Sheep Using TaqMan-MGB Technology
by Yue Zhang, Min Zhang, Hong Su, Jun Liu, Feifei Zhao, Yifan Zhao, Xiunan Li, Yanyan Yang, Guifang Cao and Yong Zhang
Animals 2025, 15(15), 2284; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152284 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Ujimqin sheep, known for its distinctive multi-vertebrae phenotypes (T13L7, T14L6, and T14L7) and economic value, has garnered significant attention. However, conventional phenotypic detection methods suffer from low efficiency and high costs. In this study, based on a key SNP locus (ABCD4 gene, [...] Read more.
Ujimqin sheep, known for its distinctive multi-vertebrae phenotypes (T13L7, T14L6, and T14L7) and economic value, has garnered significant attention. However, conventional phenotypic detection methods suffer from low efficiency and high costs. In this study, based on a key SNP locus (ABCD4 gene, Chr7:89393414, C > T) identified through a genome-wide association study (GWAS), a TaqMan-MGB (minor groove binder) genotyping system was developed. the objective was to establish a high-throughput and efficient molecular marker-assisted selection (MAS) tool. Specific primers and dual fluorescent probes were designed to optimize the reaction system. Standard plasmids were adopted to validate genotyping accuracy. A total of 152 Ujimqin sheep were subjected to TaqMan-MGB genotyping, digital radiography (DR) imaging, and Sanger sequencing. the results showed complete concordance between TaqMan-MGB and Sanger sequencing, with an overall agreement rate of 83.6% with DR imaging. For individuals with T/T genotypes (127/139), the detection accuracy reached 91.4%. This method demonstrated high specificity, simplicity, and cost-efficiency, significantly reducing the time and financial burden associated with traditional imaging-based approaches. the findings indicate that the TaqMan-MGB technique can accurately identify the T/T genotype at the SNP site and its strong association with the multi-vertebrae phenotypes, offering an effective and reliable tool for molecular breeding of Ujimqin sheep. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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17 pages, 3442 KiB  
Article
Generating Strongly Basic Sites on C/Fe3O4 Core–Shell Structure: Preparation of Magnetically Responsive Mesoporous Solid Strong Bases Catalysts
by Tiantian Li, Xiaowen Li, Guangxia Shi, Yajun Gao, Qiang Guan, Guodong Kang, Yizhi Zeng and Dingming Xue
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080743 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Novel solid strong base catalysts have attracted considerable attention in fine chemical synthesis owing to their unique advantages. In this work, a magnetic solid strong base catalyst with controlled morphology and porous carbon shell structure was successfully fabricated using low-cost carbon sources combined [...] Read more.
Novel solid strong base catalysts have attracted considerable attention in fine chemical synthesis owing to their unique advantages. In this work, a magnetic solid strong base catalyst with controlled morphology and porous carbon shell structure was successfully fabricated using low-cost carbon sources combined with Fe3O4 nanoparticles. KOH was used to introduce strong basic sites through ultrasonic-assisted impregnation. The carbon shell acted as a protective barrier to suppress detrimental interactions between basic species and the support while maintaining structural integrity after high-temperature activation without morphology degradation. The obtained K/C/Fe3O4 catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic performance and near-ideal superparamagnetic behavior. In the transesterification reaction for dimethyl carbonate (DMC) synthesis, the K/C/Fe3O4 catalyst provides superior performance than conventional solid base catalysts and maintains stable activity over six consecutive cycles. Notably, efficient solid–liquid separation was achieved successfully via magnetic separation, demonstrating practical applicability for the K/C/Fe3O4 catalyst. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Catalytic Applications of Advanced Porous Materials)
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25 pages, 13119 KiB  
Article
Spatial and Temporal Variability of C Stocks and Fertility Levels After Repeated Compost Additions: A Case Study in a Converted Mediterranean Perennial Cropland
by Arleen Rodríguez-Declet, Maria Teresa Rodinò, Salvatore Praticò, Antonio Gelsomino, Adamo Domenico Rombolà, Giuseppe Modica and Gaetano Messina
Soil Syst. 2025, 9(3), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems9030086 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Land use conversion to perennial cropland often degrades the soil structure and fertility, particularly under Mediterranean climatic conditions. This study assessed spatial and temporal dynamics of soil properties and tree responses to 3-year repeated mature compost additions in a citrus orchard. Digital soil [...] Read more.
Land use conversion to perennial cropland often degrades the soil structure and fertility, particularly under Mediterranean climatic conditions. This study assessed spatial and temporal dynamics of soil properties and tree responses to 3-year repeated mature compost additions in a citrus orchard. Digital soil mapping revealed strong baseline heterogeneity in texture, CEC, and Si pools. Compost application markedly increased total organic C and N levels, aggregate stability, and pH with noticeable changes after the first amendment, whereas a limited C storage potential was found following further additions. NDVI values of tree canopies monitored over a 3-year period showed significant time-dependent changes not correlated with the soil fertility variables, thus suggesting that multiple interrelated factors affect plant responses. The non-crystalline amorphous Si/total amorphous Si (iSi:Siamor) ratio is here proposed as a novel indicator of pedogenic alteration in disturbed agroecosystems. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring organic farming strategies to site-specific conditions and reinforce the value to combine C and Si pool analysis for long-term soil fertility assessment. Full article
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12 pages, 1209 KiB  
Article
Contribution to Morphometrics and Ecology of Snow Trout (Schizothorax eurycephalus) and Stone Loach (Triplophysa ferganaensis)
by Erkin Karimov, Otabek Omonov, Pieterjan Verhelst, Bakhtiyor K. Karimov, Martin Schletterer and Daniel S. Hayes
Fishes 2025, 10(8), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10080377 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The mountainous rivers of Central Asia host diverse ichthyofauna threatened by increasing anthropogenic pressures, particularly water pollution, abstraction, and hydropower development. This study provides valuable morphometric and ecological data for Schizothorax eurycephalus (snow trout) and Triplophysa ferganaensis (stone loach) in the Shakhimardan River [...] Read more.
The mountainous rivers of Central Asia host diverse ichthyofauna threatened by increasing anthropogenic pressures, particularly water pollution, abstraction, and hydropower development. This study provides valuable morphometric and ecological data for Schizothorax eurycephalus (snow trout) and Triplophysa ferganaensis (stone loach) in the Shakhimardan River basin, Uzbekistan. S. eurycephalus exhibited positive allometric growth, while T. ferganaensis showed negative near-isometric growth. The mean Fulton’s Condition Factor was 1.0 for S. eurycephalus and 0.7 for T. ferganaensis, with site-specific variations. Strong correlations among morphometric parameters, particularly length–height relationships, support non-invasive monitoring techniques. Dietary analysis revealed S. eurycephalus was predominantly herbivorous, with around 70% algae consumption. Early sexual maturity was observed in S. eurycephalus males, whereas T. ferganaensis showed no clear maturity signs, but swollen bellies suggested ongoing or recent reproductive activity. These baseline morphometric and ecological data establish a solid foundation for future ecological assessments, conservation strategies, and the design and monitoring of mitigation measures to address anthropogenic impacts in this vulnerable region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Ecology)
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25 pages, 5388 KiB  
Article
Numerical and Experimental Evaluation of Axial Load Transfer in Deep Foundations Within Stratified Cohesive Soils
by Şahin Çaglar Tuna
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2723; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152723 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 147
Abstract
This study presents a numerical and experimental evaluation of axial load transfer mechanisms in deep foundations constructed in stratified cohesive soils in İzmir, Türkiye. A full-scale bi-directional static load test equipped with strain gauges was conducted on a barrette pile to investigate depth-dependent [...] Read more.
This study presents a numerical and experimental evaluation of axial load transfer mechanisms in deep foundations constructed in stratified cohesive soils in İzmir, Türkiye. A full-scale bi-directional static load test equipped with strain gauges was conducted on a barrette pile to investigate depth-dependent mobilization of shaft resistance. A finite element model was developed and calibrated using field-observed load–settlement and strain data to replicate the pile–soil interaction and deformation behavior. The analysis revealed a shaft-dominated load transfer behavior, with progressive mobilization concentrated in intermediate-depth cohesive layers. Sensitivity analysis identified the undrained stiffness (Eu) as the most influential parameter governing pile settlement. A strong polynomial correlation was established between calibrated Eu values and SPT N60, offering a practical tool for preliminary design. Additionally, strain energy distribution was evaluated as a supplementary metric, enhancing the interpretation of mobilization zones beyond conventional stress-based methods. The integrated approach provides valuable insights for performance-based foundation design in layered cohesive ground, supporting the development of site-calibrated numerical models informed by full-scale testing data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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29 pages, 5505 KiB  
Article
Triaxial Response and Elastoplastic Constitutive Model for Artificially Cemented Granular Materials
by Xiaochun Yu, Yuchen Ye, Anyu Yang and Jie Yang
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2721; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152721 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 123
Abstract
Because artificially cemented granular (ACG) materials employ diverse combinations of aggregates and binders—including cemented soil, low-cement-content cemented sand and gravel (LCSG), and concrete—their stress–strain responses vary widely. In LCSG, the binder dosage is typically limited to 40–80 kg/m3 and the sand–gravel skeleton [...] Read more.
Because artificially cemented granular (ACG) materials employ diverse combinations of aggregates and binders—including cemented soil, low-cement-content cemented sand and gravel (LCSG), and concrete—their stress–strain responses vary widely. In LCSG, the binder dosage is typically limited to 40–80 kg/m3 and the sand–gravel skeleton is often obtained directly from on-site or nearby excavation spoil, endowing the material with a markedly lower embodied carbon footprint and strong alignment with current low-carbon, green-construction objectives. Yet, such heterogeneity makes a single material-specific constitutive model inadequate for predicting the mechanical behavior of other ACG variants, thereby constraining broader applications in dam construction and foundation reinforcement. This study systematically summarizes and analyzes the stress–strain and volumetric strain–axial strain characteristics of ACG materials under conventional triaxial conditions. Generalized hyperbolic and parabolic equations are employed to describe these two families of curves, and closed-form expressions are proposed for key mechanical indices—peak strength, elastic modulus, and shear dilation behavior. Building on generalized plasticity theory, we derive the plastic flow direction vector, loading direction vector, and plastic modulus, and develop a concise, transferable elastoplastic model suitable for the full spectrum of ACG materials. Validation against triaxial data for rock-fill materials, LCSG, and cemented coal–gangue backfill shows that the model reproduces the stress and deformation paths of each material class with high accuracy. Quantitative evaluation of the peak values indicates that the proposed constitutive model predicts peak deviatoric stress with an error of 1.36% and peak volumetric strain with an error of 3.78%. The corresponding coefficients of determination R2 between the predicted and measured values are 0.997 for peak stress and 0.987 for peak volumetric strain, demonstrating the excellent engineering accuracy of the proposed model. The results provide a unified theoretical basis for deploying ACG—particularly its low-cement, locally sourced variants—in low-carbon dam construction, foundation rehabilitation, and other sustainable civil engineering projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low Carbon and Green Materials in Construction—3rd Edition)
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16 pages, 3282 KiB  
Article
First-Principles Study on Periodic Pt2Fe Alloy Surface Models for Highly Efficient CO Poisoning Resistance
by Junmei Wang, Qingkun Tian, Harry E. Ruda, Li Chen, Maoyou Yang and Yujun Song
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(15), 1185; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15151185 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 177
Abstract
Surface and sub-surface atomic configurations are critical for catalysis as they host the active sites governing electrochemical processes. This study employs density functional theory (DFT) calculations and Monte Carlo simulations combined with the cluster-expansion approach to investigate atom distribution and Pt segregation in [...] Read more.
Surface and sub-surface atomic configurations are critical for catalysis as they host the active sites governing electrochemical processes. This study employs density functional theory (DFT) calculations and Monte Carlo simulations combined with the cluster-expansion approach to investigate atom distribution and Pt segregation in Pt-Fe alloys across varying Pt/Fe ratios. Our simulations reveal a strong tendency for Pt atoms to segregate to the surface layer while Fe atoms enrich the sub-surface region. Crucially, the calculations predict the stability of a periodic Pt2Fe alloy surface model, characterized by specific defect structures, at low platinum content and low annealing temperatures. Electronic structure analysis indicates that forming this Pt2Fe surface alloy lowers the d-band center of Pt atoms, weakening CO adsorption and thereby enhancing resistance to CO poisoning. Although defect-induced strains can modulate the d-band center, crystal orbital Hamilton population (COHP) analysis confirms that such strains generally strengthen Pt-CO interactions. Therefore, the theoretical design of Pt2Fe alloy surfaces and controlling defect density are predicted to be effective strategies for enhancing catalyst resistance to CO poisoning. This work highlights the advantages of periodic Pt2Fe surface models for anti-CO poisoning and provides computational guidance for designing efficient Pt-based electrocatalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures)
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25 pages, 7784 KiB  
Article
Diversity in the Common Fold: Structural Insights into Class D β-Lactamases from Gram-Negative Pathogens
by Clyde A. Smith and Anastasiya Stasyuk
Pathogens 2025, 14(8), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14080761 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 173
Abstract
Class D β-lactamases (DBLs) represent a major threat to antibiotic efficacy by hydrolyzing β-lactam drugs, including last-resort carbapenems, thereby driving antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative bacteria. The enzymes share a structurally conserved two-domain α/β architecture with seven active-site motifs and three flexible extended loops [...] Read more.
Class D β-lactamases (DBLs) represent a major threat to antibiotic efficacy by hydrolyzing β-lactam drugs, including last-resort carbapenems, thereby driving antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative bacteria. The enzymes share a structurally conserved two-domain α/β architecture with seven active-site motifs and three flexible extended loops (the P-loop, Ω-loop, and newly designated B-loop) that surround the active site. While each of these loops is known to influence enzyme function, their coordinated roles have not been fully elucidated. To investigate the significance of their interplay, we compared the sequences and crystal structures of 40 DBLs from clinically relevant Gram-negative pathogens and performed molecular dynamics simulations on selected representatives. Combined structural and dynamical analyses revealed a strong correlation between B-loop architecture and carbapenemase activity in the pathogens Klebsiella and Acinetobacter, particularly regarding loop length and spatial organization. These findings emphasize the B-loop’s critical contribution, in concert with the P- and Ω-loops, in tuning active site versatility, substrate recognition, catalytic activity, and structural stability. A deeper understanding of how these motifs and loops govern DBL function may inform the development of novel antibiotics and inhibitors targeting this class of enzymes. Full article
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22 pages, 6617 KiB  
Article
Natural Plant Oils as Anti-Algae Biocides for Sustainable Application in Cultural Heritage Protection
by Michał Komar, Nathnael Derese, Kamil Szymczak, Paulina Nowicka-Krawczyk and Beata Gutarowska
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6996; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156996 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 190
Abstract
The prevention of biofilm formation and algal biodeterioration on building materials, particularly on cultural heritage sites, is a growing concern. Due to regulatory restrictions on conventional algicidal biocides in Europe, natural alternatives such as essential oils are gaining interest for their potential use [...] Read more.
The prevention of biofilm formation and algal biodeterioration on building materials, particularly on cultural heritage sites, is a growing concern. Due to regulatory restrictions on conventional algicidal biocides in Europe, natural alternatives such as essential oils are gaining interest for their potential use in heritage conservation. This study evaluates the anti-algal activity of Salvia officinalis and Equisetum arvense (essential oils, hydrolates, and extracts) against a mixed culture of five green algae species (Bracteacoccus minor, Stichococcus bacillaris, Klebsormidium nitens, Chloroidium saccharophilum, and Diplosphaera chodatii). The plant materials were processed using hydrodistillation and solvent extraction, followed by chemical characterization through gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Biological efficacy was assessed by measuring algal growth inhibition, changes in biomass colour, chlorophyll a concentration, and fluorescence. S. officinalis yielded higher extract quantities (extraction yield: 23%) than E. arvense and contained bioactive compounds such as thujone, camphor, and cineole, which correlated with its strong anti-algal effects. The essential oil of S. officinalis demonstrated the highest efficacy, significantly inhibiting biofilm formation (zones of inhibition: 15–94 mm) and photosynthetic activity at 0.5% concentration (reduction in chlorophyll a concentration 90–100%), without causing visible discolouration of treated surfaces (∆E < 2). These findings highlight the potential of S. officinalis essential oil as a natural, effective, and material-safe algicidal biocide for the sustainable protection of cultural heritage sites. Full article
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21 pages, 23129 KiB  
Article
Validation of Global Moderate-Resolution FAPAR Products over Boreal Forests in North America Using Harmonized Landsat and Sentinel-2 Data
by Yinghui Zhang, Hongliang Fang, Zhongwen Hu, Yao Wang, Sijia Li and Guofeng Wu
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(15), 2658; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17152658 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 99
Abstract
The fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FAPAR) stands as a pivotal parameter within the Earth system, quantifying the energy exchange between vegetation and solar radiation. Accordingly, there is an urgent need for comprehensive validation studies to accurately quantify uncertainties and improve the [...] Read more.
The fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FAPAR) stands as a pivotal parameter within the Earth system, quantifying the energy exchange between vegetation and solar radiation. Accordingly, there is an urgent need for comprehensive validation studies to accurately quantify uncertainties and improve the reliability of FAPAR-based applications. This study validated five global FAPAR products, MOD15A2H, MYD15A2H, VNP15A2H, GEOV2, and GEOV3, over four boreal forest sites in North America. Qualitative quality flags (QQFs) and quantitative quality indicators (QQIs) of each product were analyzed. Time series high-resolution reference FAPAR maps were developed using the Harmonized Landsat and Sentinel-2 dataset. The reference FAPAR maps revealed a strong agreement with the in situ FAPAR from AmeriFlux (correlation coefficient (R) = 0.91; root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.06). The results revealed that global FAPAR products show similar uncertainties (RMSE: 0.16 ± 0.04) and moderate agreement with the reference FAPAR (R = 0.75 ± 0.10). On average, 34.47 ± 6.91% of the FAPAR data met the goal requirements of the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS), while 54.41 ± 6.89% met the threshold requirements of the GCOS. Deciduous forests perform better than evergreen forests, and the products tend to underestimate the reference data, especially for the beginning and end of growing seasons in evergreen forests. There are no obvious quality differences at different QQFs, and the relative QQI can be used to filter high-quality values. To enhance the regional applicability of global FAPAR products, further algorithm improvements and expanded validation efforts are essential. Full article
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12 pages, 3641 KiB  
Article
Metallic Lanthanum (III) Hybrid Magnetic Nanocellulose Composites for Enhanced DNA Capture via Rare-Earth Coordination Chemistry
by Jiayao Yang, Jie Fei, Hongpeng Wang and Ye Li
Inorganics 2025, 13(8), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics13080257 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 125
Abstract
Lanthanide rare earth elements possess significant promise for material applications owing to their distinctive optical and magnetic characteristics, as well as their versatile coordination capabilities. This study introduced a lanthanide-functionalized magnetic nanocellulose composite (NNC@Fe3O4@La(OH)3) for effective phosphorus/nitrogen [...] Read more.
Lanthanide rare earth elements possess significant promise for material applications owing to their distinctive optical and magnetic characteristics, as well as their versatile coordination capabilities. This study introduced a lanthanide-functionalized magnetic nanocellulose composite (NNC@Fe3O4@La(OH)3) for effective phosphorus/nitrogen (P/N) ligand separation. The hybrid material employs the adaptable coordination geometry and strong affinity for oxygen of La3+ ions to show enhanced DNA-binding capacity via multi-site coordination with phosphate backbones and bases. This study utilized cellulose as a carrier, which was modified through carboxylation and amination processes employing deep eutectic solvents (DES) and polyethyleneimine. Magnetic nanoparticles and La(OH)3 were subsequently incorporated into the cellulose via in situ growth. NNC@Fe3O4@La(OH)3 showed a specific surface area of 36.2 m2·g−1 and a magnetic saturation intensity of 37 emu/g, facilitating the formation of ligands with accessible La3+ active sites, hence creating mesoporous interfaces that allow for fast separation. NNC@Fe3O4@La(OH)3 showed a significant affinity for DNA, with adsorption capacities reaching 243 mg/g, mostly due to the multistage coordination binding of La3+ to the phosphate groups and bases of DNA. Simultaneously, kinetic experiments indicated that the binding process adhered to a pseudo-secondary kinetic model, predominantly dependent on chemisorption. This study developed a unique rare-earth coordination-driven functional hybrid material, which is highly significant for constructing selective separation platforms for P/N-containing ligands. Full article
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16 pages, 1247 KiB  
Article
Sexual Dimorphism of Synaptic Plasticity Changes in CA1 Hippocampal Networks in Hypergravity-Exposed Mice—New Insights for Cognition in Space
by Mathilde Wullen, Valentine Bouet, Thomas Freret and Jean-Marie Billard
Cells 2025, 14(15), 1186; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14151186 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 280
Abstract
Background: We recently reported sex-dependent impairment in cognitive functions in male and female mice exposed for 24 h, 48 h or 15 days to 2G hypergravity (HG). Methods: In the present study, we investigated brain functional correlates by analyzing synaptic activity and plasticity [...] Read more.
Background: We recently reported sex-dependent impairment in cognitive functions in male and female mice exposed for 24 h, 48 h or 15 days to 2G hypergravity (HG). Methods: In the present study, we investigated brain functional correlates by analyzing synaptic activity and plasticity in the CA1 area of the hippocampus in both genders of mice previously exposed to 2G for the same duration. This was assessed by electrophysiological extracellular recordings in ex vivo slice preparations. Results: Basal synaptic transmission and glutamate release were unchanged regardless of HG duration. However, plasticity was altered in a sex- and time-specific manner. In males, long-term potentiation (LTP) induced by strong high-frequency stimulation and NMDA receptor (NMDAr) activation was reduced by 26% after 24 h of exposure but recovered at later timepoints. This deficit was reversed by D-serine or glycine, suggesting decreased activation at the NMDAr co-agonist site. In females, LTP deficits (23%) were found only after 15 days following mild theta burst stimulation and were not reversed by D-serine. Long-term depression (LTD) was unaffected in both sexes. Conclusions: This study highlights, for the first time, sex-dependent divergence in the CA1 hippocampal plasticity timeline following 2G exposure. The synaptic changes depend on exposure duration and the stimulation protocol and could underlie the previously observed cognitive deficits. Full article
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27 pages, 2147 KiB  
Systematic Review
Immunogenicity, Safety, and Protective Efficacy of Mucosal Vaccines Against Respiratory Infectious Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Jiaqi Chen, Weitong Lin, Chaokai Yang, Wenqi Lin, Xinghui Cheng, Haoyuan He, Xinhua Li and Jingyou Yu
Vaccines 2025, 13(8), 825; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13080825 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 228
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Mucosal vaccines, delivered intranasally or via inhalation, are being studied for respiratory infectious diseases like COVID-19 and influenza. These vaccines aim to provide non-invasive administration and strong immune responses at infection sites, making them a promising area of research. This systematic review [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Mucosal vaccines, delivered intranasally or via inhalation, are being studied for respiratory infectious diseases like COVID-19 and influenza. These vaccines aim to provide non-invasive administration and strong immune responses at infection sites, making them a promising area of research. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed their immunogenicity, safety, and protective efficacy. Methods: The study design was a systematic review and meta-analysis, searching PubMed and Cochrane databases up to 30 May 2025. Inclusion criteria followed the PICOS framework, focusing on mucosal vaccines for COVID-19, influenza, RSV, pertussis, and tuberculosis. Results: A total of 65 studies with 229,614 participants were included in the final analysis. Mucosal COVID-19 vaccines elicited higher neutralizing antibodies compared to intramuscular vaccines (SMD = 2.48, 95% CI: 2.17–2.78 for wild-type; SMD = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.32–2.58 for Omicron), with varying efficacy by route (inhaled VE = 47%, 95% CI: 22–74%; intranasal vaccine VE = 17%, 95% CI: 0–31%). Mucosal influenza vaccines protected children well (VE = 62%, 95% CI: 30–46%, I2 = 17.1%), but seroconversion rates were lower than those of intramuscular vaccines. RSV and pertussis vaccines had high seroconversion rates (73% and 52%, respectively). Tuberculosis vaccines were reviewed systemically, exhibiting robust cellular immunogenicity. Safety was comparable to intramuscular vaccines or placebo, with no publication bias detected. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests mucosal vaccines are immunogenic, safe, and protective, particularly for respiratory diseases. This review provides insights for future research and vaccination strategies, though limitations include varying efficacy by route and study heterogeneity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immune Correlates of Protection in Vaccines, 2nd Edition)
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24 pages, 5018 KiB  
Article
Machine Learning for the Photonic Evaluation of Cranial and Extracranial Sites in Healthy Individuals and in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
by Antonio Currà, Riccardo Gasbarrone, Davide Gattabria, Nicola Luigi Bragazzi, Giuseppe Bonifazi, Silvia Serranti, Paolo Missori, Francesco Fattapposta, Carlotta Manfredi, Andrea Maffucci, Luca Puce, Lucio Marinelli and Carlo Trompetto
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8534; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158534 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 167
Abstract
This study aims to characterize short-wave infrared (SWIR) reflectance spectra at cranial (at the scalp overlying the frontal cortex and the temporal bone window) and extracranial (biceps and triceps) sites in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and age-/sex-matched controls. We sought to identify [...] Read more.
This study aims to characterize short-wave infrared (SWIR) reflectance spectra at cranial (at the scalp overlying the frontal cortex and the temporal bone window) and extracranial (biceps and triceps) sites in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and age-/sex-matched controls. We sought to identify the diagnostic accuracy of wavelength-specific patterns in distinguishing MS from normal controls and spectral markers associated with disability (e.g., Expanded Disability Status Scale scores). To achieve these objectives, we employed a multi-site SWIR spectroscopy acquisition protocol that included measurements from traditional cranial locations as well as extracranial reference sites. Advanced spectral analysis techniques, including wavelength-dependent absorption modeling and machine learning-based classification, were applied to differentiate MS-related hemodynamic changes from normal physiological variability. Classification models achieved perfect performance (accuracy = 1.00), and cortical site regression models showed strong predictive power (EDSS: R2CV = 0.980; FSS: R2CV = 0.939). Variable Importance in Projection (VIP) analysis highlighted key wavelengths as potential spectral biomarkers. This approach allowed us to explore novel biomarkers of neural and systemic impairment in MS, paving the way for potential clinical applications of SWIR spectroscopy in disease monitoring and management. In conclusion, spectral analysis revealed distinct wavelength-specific patterns collected from cranial and extracranial sites reflecting biochemical and structural differences between patients with MS and normal subjects. These differences are driven by underlying physiological changes, including myelin integrity, neuronal density, oxidative stress, and water content fluctuations in the brain or muscles. This study shows that portable spectral devices may contribute to bedside individuation and monitoring of neural diseases, offering a cost-effective alternative to repeated imaging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Medical Diagnostics: Second Edition)
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13 pages, 2073 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Nucleation in Zr-2.5Nb During Reduced-Gravity Electromagnetic Levitation Experiments
by Gwendolyn P. Bracker, Stephan Schneider, Sarah Nell, Mitja Beckers, Markus Mohr and Robert W. Hyers
Crystals 2025, 15(8), 703; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15080703 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 86
Abstract
Levitation techniques reduce the available heterogeneous nucleation sites and provide stable access to deeply undercooled melts. However, some samples have repeatably demonstrated that, in the presence of strong stirring, solidification may be induced at moderate, sub-critical undercoolings. Dynamic nucleation is a mechanism by [...] Read more.
Levitation techniques reduce the available heterogeneous nucleation sites and provide stable access to deeply undercooled melts. However, some samples have repeatably demonstrated that, in the presence of strong stirring, solidification may be induced at moderate, sub-critical undercoolings. Dynamic nucleation is a mechanism by which solidification may be induced through flow effects within a sub-critically undercooled melt. In this mechanism, collapsing cavities within the melt produce very high-pressure shocks, which shift the local melting temperature. In these regions of locally shifted melt temperatures, thermodynamic conditions enable nuclei to grow and trigger solidification of the full sample. By deepening the local undercooling, dynamic nucleation enables solidification to occur in conditions where classical nucleation does not. Dynamic nucleation has been observed in several zirconium and zirconium-based samples in the Electromagnetic Levitator onboard the International Space Station (ISS-EML). The experiments presented here address conditions in which a zirconium sample alloyed with 2.5 atomic percent niobium spontaneously solidifies during electromagnetic levitation experiments with strong melt stirring. In these experimental conditions, classical nucleation predicts the sample to remain liquid. This solidification behavior is consistent with the solidification behavior observed in prior experiments on pure zirconium. Full article
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