MDPI - Publisher of Open Access Journals

19 pages, 1595 KiB

Open AccessReview

From Inflammation to Infertility: How Oxidative Stress and Infections Disrupt Male Reproductive Health

by Anastasios Potiris, Efthalia Moustakli, Eleni Trismpioti, Eirini Drakaki, Despoina Mavrogianni, Alkis Matsas, Athanasios Zikopoulos, Antonios Sfakianakis, Ioannis Tsakiridis, Themistoklis Dagklis, Athanasios Zachariou, Panagiotis Christopoulos, Ekaterini Domali, Peter Drakakis and Sofoklis Stavros

Metabolites 2025, 15(4), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15040267 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Inflammation, infections, and oxidative stress (OS) all have an impact on male infertility, which is a complicated, multifaceted illness. OS affects motility and fertilization capability. It accomplishes this through damaging sperm DNA, oxidizing proteins, and triggering lipid peroxidation. These effects occur due [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Inflammation, infections, and oxidative stress (OS) all have an impact on male infertility, which is a complicated, multifaceted illness. OS affects motility and fertilization capability. It accomplishes this through damaging sperm DNA, oxidizing proteins, and triggering lipid peroxidation. These effects occur due to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses. Methods: This review aims to evaluate the impact of oxidative stress and inflammation on male infertility by assessing recent literature. Results: Pro-inflammatory cytokines, like TNF-α and IL-6, interfere with spermatogenesis and promote oxidative damage. Additionally, infections caused by pathogens like Escherichia coli and Chlamydia trachomatis alter the reproductive microenvironment, leading to sperm dysfunction and inflammation. Conclusions: Early detection and targeted treatment are essential due to the intricate interactions among these elements. Microbiota-modulating techniques, antimicrobial therapies, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antioxidants are therapeutic approaches that may help reduce oxidative damage and enhance male fertility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Reproductive Medicine: Unlocking the Secrets of the Ovary and Sperm for Fertility and Beyond)

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27 pages, 2590 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Approach for Cyber Threat Analysis Systems Using a Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers Model from Cyber Threat Intelligence Data

by Doygun Demirol, Resul Das and Davut Hanbay

Symmetry 2025, 17(4), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17040587 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

As today’s cybersecurity environment is becoming increasingly complex, it is crucial to analyse threats quickly and effectively. A delayed response or lack of foresight can lead to data loss, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. Therefore, developing methods that can rapidly extract valuable threat [...] Read more.

As today’s cybersecurity environment is becoming increasingly complex, it is crucial to analyse threats quickly and effectively. A delayed response or lack of foresight can lead to data loss, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. Therefore, developing methods that can rapidly extract valuable threat intelligence is a critical need to strengthen defence strategies and minimise potential damage. This paper presents an innovative approach that integrates knowledge graphs and a fine-tuned BERT-based model to analyse cyber threat intelligence (CTI) data. The proposed system extracts cyber entities such as threat actors, malware, campaigns, and targets from unstructured threat reports and establishes their relationships using an ontology-driven framework. A named entity recognition dataset was created and a BERT-based model was trained. To address the class imbalance, oversampling and a focal loss function were applied, achieving an F1 score of 96%. The extracted entities and relationships were visualised and analysed using knowledge graphs, enabling the advanced threat analysis and prediction of potential attack targets. This approach enhances cyber-attack prediction and prevention through knowledge graphs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies of Symmetry/Asymmetry in Cybersecurity)

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31 pages, 2520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Increasing the Classification Achievement of Steel Surface Defects by Applying a Specific Deep Strategy and a New Image Processing Approach

by Fatih Demir and Koray Sener Parlak

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 4255; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15084255 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Defect detection is still challenging to apply in reality because the goal of the entire classification assignment is to identify the exact type and location of every problem in an image. Since defect detection is a task that includes location and categorization, it [...] Read more.

Defect detection is still challenging to apply in reality because the goal of the entire classification assignment is to identify the exact type and location of every problem in an image. Since defect detection is a task that includes location and categorization, it is difficult to take both accuracy factors into account when designing related solutions. Flaw detection deployment requires a unique detection dataset that is accurately annotated. Producing steel free of flaws is crucial, particularly in large production systems. Thus, in this study, we proposed a novel deep learning-based flaw detection system with an industrial focus on automated steel surface defect identification. To create processed images from raw steel surface images, a novel method was applied. A new deep learning model called the Parallel Attention–Residual CNN (PARC) model was constructed to extract deep features concurrently by training residual structures and attention. The Iterative Neighborhood Component Analysis (INCA) technique was chosen for distinguishing features to lower the computational cost. The classification assessed the SVM method using a convincing dataset (Severstal: Steel Defect Detection). The accuracy in both the binary and multi-class classification tests was above 90%. Moreover, using the same dataset, the suggested model was contrasted with pre-existing models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Object Detection and Image Classification)

21 pages, 3670 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Different Types of Energy Transition Policies in China on Household Energy Poverty and Health Vulnerability

by Xinyu Yang, Siqi Yu, Xinling Jiang, Zhongyao Cai and Ping Jiang

Energies 2025, 18(8), 1976; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18081976 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Climate extremes exacerbate household energy poverty, yet the policy impacts of various energy transition strategies remain underexplored. Leveraging a database of longitudinal socioeconomic–energy household-level data from China, we evaluate the micro-level effects of market-based policies—such as China’s energy quota trading—on households’ energy poverty [...] Read more.

Climate extremes exacerbate household energy poverty, yet the policy impacts of various energy transition strategies remain underexplored. Leveraging a database of longitudinal socioeconomic–energy household-level data from China, we evaluate the micro-level effects of market-based policies—such as China’s energy quota trading—on households’ energy poverty and energy consumption patterns. We also assess the impact and equity outcomes of an inclusive energy subsidy strategy, including the Northern Clean Energy Program in China, on the health vulnerabilities of energy-poor households. Our findings reveal that while the energy quota trading policy has reduced the reliance on traditional energy sources, it has not sufficiently alleviated the economic burden on energy-poor households. In contrast, the Northern Clean Energy Program in China has significantly mitigated both health risks and economic pressures. These insights provide a robust foundation for optimizing climate change mitigation and energy transition strategies, ultimately promoting energy justice and a fair transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section B: Energy and Environment)

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23 pages, 2383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Catalytic Surfaces for Catechol Sensing: Combining Grafted Aryldiazonium Derivative with Cross-Linking Dopamine or Coupling Tyrosinase Immobilizations

by Javier M. González-Costas, Sara Caruncho-Pérez and Elisa González-Romero

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 4250; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15084250 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study describes the development of catalytic surface immobilizing dopamine via cross-linking or tyrosinase through covalent bonds on an electrografted screen-printed carbon electrode with a 4-nitrobenzenediazonium ion. A simple electrochemical reduction approach was used to covalently graft aryldiazonium ions onto the surface of [...] Read more.

This study describes the development of catalytic surface immobilizing dopamine via cross-linking or tyrosinase through covalent bonds on an electrografted screen-printed carbon electrode with a 4-nitrobenzenediazonium ion. A simple electrochemical reduction approach was used to covalently graft aryldiazonium ions onto the surface of commercial electrodes. After functionalization with aminophenyl groups, dopamine, an important neurotransmitter, was immobilized by imine bond formation using glutaraldehyde as a bifunctional cross-linking molecule. The presence of immobilized dopamine was confirmed by cyclic voltammetry following the electrochemical response of the hydroquinone/quinone redox process from catechol functionalities on the surface, which are responsible for the catalytic activity. In addition, the surface was also characterized by cyclic voltammetry using the redox probe, [Fe(CN)₆]^3−/4−, obtaining a signal approximately 14 times higher than that of a bare electrode, achieving a dynamic concentration range spanning three orders of magnitude. Remarkable sensitivity was also obtained by combining the electrografting, in situ diazotation, to generate grafted aryl diazonium ions on the surface, and coupling reaction to anchor the tyrosinase enzyme to the electrode surface. The response of the TYR-biosensor towards catechol, using the redox probe as mediator, was 10 times higher than that obtained with the dopamine modified catalytic surface. These modified surfaces offer promising alternatives for the voltammetric quantification of catechol in environmental fields. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysts: Recent Advances and Applications)

40 pages, 10528 KiB

Open AccessArticle

FMCW Radar-Aided Navigation for Unmanned Aircraft Approach and Landing in AAM Scenarios: System Requirements and Processing Pipeline

by Paolo Veneruso, Luca Manica, Enrico Miccio, Roberto Opromolla, Carlo Tiana, Giacomo Gentile and Giancarmine Fasano

Sensors 2025, 25(8), 2429; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25082429 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

This paper focuses on the use of Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave radars as an aiding source to provide precision navigation during approach and landing operations in Advanced Air Mobility scenarios. Specifically, the radar system requirements are delineated through an analysis of operational constraints defined [...] Read more.

This paper focuses on the use of Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave radars as an aiding source to provide precision navigation during approach and landing operations in Advanced Air Mobility scenarios. Specifically, the radar system requirements are delineated through an analysis of operational constraints defined by regulatory guidelines, including approach trajectories and vertiport infrastructure to ensure compatibility with Urban Air Mobility scenarios. A preliminary radar design is proposed which is integrated within a multi-sensor navigation architecture including a GNSS receiver, an inertial measurement unit, and two cameras. The radar is designed to detect high-reflectivity targets placed in the landing area and uses a matching algorithm to associate these detections with their known positions, enabling reliable corrections to the aircraft navigation state. Radar measurements are tightly integrated into an Extended Kalman Filter alongside data from other sensors, refining the vehicle navigation state estimate and ensuring seamless transitions between long-range and short-range sensing modalities. A high-fidelity simulation environment validates the proposed multi-sensor architecture under different visibility conditions and accordingly disactivating the radar to validate its contribution. The results demonstrate significant improvements in navigation performance when the radar is integrated within the multi-sensor architecture thanks to its important role in providing accurate estimates at high ranges from the landing pattern and during low-visibility operations. The reported statistics of the multi-sensor architecture performance are compared with the assumed required navigation performance in the scenarios of interest, demonstrating the radar contribution and showing the effects of designed radar angular resolution on the multi-sensor architecture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Fusion in Positioning and Navigation)

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26 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aligning National Protected Areas with Global Norms: A Four-Step Analysis of Türkiye’s Conservation Laws

by Arife Eymen Karabulut and Özlem Özçevik

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3432; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083432 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) conducts critical international studies and offers recommendations on the sustainable conservation, use, and management of protected areas worldwide by setting targets within the framework of the Nature 2030 goals and the Green List standards. These [...] Read more.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) conducts critical international studies and offers recommendations on the sustainable conservation, use, and management of protected areas worldwide by setting targets within the framework of the Nature 2030 goals and the Green List standards. These initiatives are essential for protecting designated areas and encouraging their use through nature-based and community-based solutions. The success of implementing these solutions depends on the effectiveness of the local legal regulations that are currently in place. This article argues that developing a common language and norms between global and national conservation frameworks, along with the efficiency of the national legal framework, plays a crucial role in facilitating the goals of the protection, use, and management of global protected areas. This study evaluates how the reflections and presence of IUCN’s globally significant targets are addressed within Türkiye’s national legal framework and policy level. The article evaluates global and national legal texts in Türkiye for social, environmental, and economic sustainability, comparing them with the Nature 2030 and Green List standards through methodologies such as word matching, comparison, and compatibility analysis. For the development of laws and policies that align with Türkiye’s global goals for the protection, use, and governance of protected areas regarding language and normative standards unity, the article highlights the importance of nature- and community-based national policy norms in achieving global protected area targets. The article’s results highlight the absence of community-based norms such as participation, governance, transparency, and equality, despite international consensus on norms like planning, area management, and the rule of law for the effective management of protected areas in Türkiye. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Innovative and Critical Issues in Natural Resource Management and Exploitation)

21 pages, 2886 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Functional Beverage from Coffee and Olive Pomace: Polyphenol-Flavonoid Content, Antioxidant, Antihyperglycemic Properties, and Mouse Behavior

by Analy Aispuro-Pérez, Fernando Javier Pedraza-Leyva, Alicia Ochoa-Acosta, Mayra Arias-Gastélum, Feliznando Isidro Cárdenas-Torres, Bianca Anabel Amezquita-López, Emiliano Terán, Emmanuel Aispuro-Hernández, Miguel Ángel Martínez-Téllez, Roberto J. Avena-Bustillos, Selina C. Wang, Eli Terán-Cabanillas and Ulises Osuna-Martínez

Foods 2025, 14(8), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14081331 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: Coffee is widely consumed worldwide and is rich in polyphenols with antioxidant properties linked to a reduced risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Olive pomace (OP), a by-product of olive oil production, contains phenolic compounds with cardioprotective effects but is often discarded. [...] Read more.

Background: Coffee is widely consumed worldwide and is rich in polyphenols with antioxidant properties linked to a reduced risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Olive pomace (OP), a by-product of olive oil production, contains phenolic compounds with cardioprotective effects but is often discarded. Combining it with coffee could enhance health benefits and promote sustainability. Methods: Soluble solids, total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity (DPPH^• scavenging activity) were analyzed in C-OP at 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% OP concentrations. The C-OP 10% brew was selected for further evaluation with α-amylase inhibition and a 14-day pilot study in a murine model, evaluating weight, food and liquid intake, and behavior, compared to a control group. Results: Adding OP powder to ground coffee increased the total phenol content in the brews. The highest antioxidant activity (6.62–8.17 mmol TE/L) was found in those brewed from 10%, 15%, and 20% concentrations. The C-OP 10% brew had the highest acceptance in mice, with increased consumption, greater exploratory behavior, and reduced resting time. It also showed 30.5% α-amylase inhibition at 200 µg/mL. Conclusions: The incorporation of OP into coffee enhances its total phenol content and antioxidant capacity. The C-OP 10% brew showed optimal bioactivity, suggesting its potential as a functional beverage for metabolic health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Olive Oil System (2nd Edition))

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17 pages, 1609 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards Understanding the Relationship Between Personality Types and Homeopathic Remedies in an Integrative Health Approach

by Esra Tosun and Ali Timucin Atayoglu

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2025, 12(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmms12010017 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the integration of Enneagram personality types with homeopathic prescribing by evaluating the relationship between personality traits and the corresponding homeopathic remedies, enhancing individualized care through an analysis of the possible mind rubrics. Method: Personality traits from the [...] Read more.

Objective: This study aims to explore the integration of Enneagram personality types with homeopathic prescribing by evaluating the relationship between personality traits and the corresponding homeopathic remedies, enhancing individualized care through an analysis of the possible mind rubrics. Method: Personality traits from the dynamic Enneagram model were mapped to corresponding mental–emotional traits. These traits were matched to the relevant possible rubrics in the Synthesis Treasure Edition repertory, using Radar Opus software. A total of 36 analyses were conducted across nine personality types. The frequency distribution (%) of remedies appearing in the top five rankings was analyzed, identifying remedies corresponding to the highest number of rubrics. Results: Forty rubrics were used in the repertorization, with duplicate rubrics counted only once, and nine different remedies were identified with a value of four points. The frequency distribution showed that polychrest remedies appeared most frequently in the top five rankings across all 36 analyses, indicating a relationship between certain remedies and personality traits. Conclusions: Integrating Enneagram personality traits into homeopathic prescribing could enhance individualized care by providing additional insights for remedy selection, alongside the traditional approaches that are commonly used, such as case analysis using the totality of symptoms. Further research is needed to refine and validate this approach. Full article

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25 pages, 512 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Artificial Intelligence Applied to the Analysis of Biblical Scriptures: A Systematic Review

by Bruno Cesar Lima, Nizam Omar, Israel Avansi and Leandro Nunes Castro

Analytics 2025, 4(2), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/analytics4020013 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

The Holy Bible is the most read book in the world, originally written in Aramaic, Hebrew, and Greek over a time span in the order of centuries by many people, and formed by a combination of various literary styles, such as stories, prophecies, [...] Read more.

The Holy Bible is the most read book in the world, originally written in Aramaic, Hebrew, and Greek over a time span in the order of centuries by many people, and formed by a combination of various literary styles, such as stories, prophecies, poetry, instructions, and others. As such, the Bible is a complex text to be analyzed by humans and machines. This paper provides a systematic survey of the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and some of its subareas to the analysis of the Biblical scriptures. Emphasis is given to what types of tasks are being solved, what are the main AI algorithms used, and their limitations. The findings deliver a general perspective on how this field is being developed, along with its limitations and gaps. This research follows a procedure based on three steps: planning (defining the review protocol), conducting (performing the survey), and reporting (formatting the report). The results obtained show there are seven main tasks solved by AI in the Bible analysis: machine translation, authorship identification, part of speech tagging (PoS tagging), semantic annotation, clustering, categorization, and Biblical interpretation. Also, the classes of AI techniques with better performance when applied to Biblical text research are machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning. The main challenges in the field involve the nature and style of the language used in the Bible, among others. Full article

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31 pages, 72348 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Print Speed on the Mechanical Performance of 3D-Printed Bio-Polymer Polylactic Acid

by Ludwik Lorkowski, Katarzyna Wybrzak, Emila Brancewicz-Steinmetz, Jacek Świniarski and Jacek Sawicki

Materials 2025, 18(8), 1765; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18081765 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of 3D printing speed on the mechanical strength of parts produced with high-speed PLA. Samples were tested according to the ISO 527-1 standard, focusing on tensile strength. The results reveal that increasing the print speed from 30 mm/s [...] Read more.

This study investigates the effect of 3D printing speed on the mechanical strength of parts produced with high-speed PLA. Samples were tested according to the ISO 527-1 standard, focusing on tensile strength. The results reveal that increasing the print speed from 30 mm/s to 500 mm/s reduces the mechanical strength of the samples, although the difference is minimal and does not affect the surface quality when the material is appropriately selected. Additionally, the orientation of the samples on the build plate had a significant impact on their strength, with samples printed along the Y-axis exhibiting better tensile performance. Ironing, which smooths the surface at the end of the print, improved the fracture surface consistency and tensile strength, regardless of the print speed. The improvement in tensile strength observed in ironed specimens can be attributed to improved bonding of the layers, reduced porosity, and a reduction in stress concentration points, which ultimately contributed to more uniform stress distribution and less risk of premature failure. Thermal camera images indicated no significant deviations in heat distribution, excluding this factor as a cause for inconsistent fracture points. This study concludes that higher printing speeds offer time and energy savings with minimal impact on mechanical properties, making them suitable for prototyping and decorative elements, although the effects of print speed and orientation should be considered for applications requiring higher strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bio-Polymer and Polymer Composites)

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31 pages, 887 KiB

Open AccessReview

Scaling up Seaweed Production for Enteric Methane Reduction: A Systematic Literature Review on Environmental and Ozone Impacts in the Case of Asparagopsis Macroalgae

by Merideth Kelliher, Diana Bogueva and Dora Marinova

Methane 2025, 4(2), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/methane4020009 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has a global warming potential over 84 times greater than carbon dioxide over its relevant lifespan. Current atmospheric methane concentrations are at a record high, significantly contributing to near-term climate warming. Agriculture, particularly livestock, is a major methane [...] Read more.

Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has a global warming potential over 84 times greater than carbon dioxide over its relevant lifespan. Current atmospheric methane concentrations are at a record high, significantly contributing to near-term climate warming. Agriculture, particularly livestock, is a major methane emitter, accounting for 40% of global total emissions, with enteric fermentation in ruminants accounting for 90% of agricultural methane emissions. The recent interest in mitigating these emissions has centered on seaweeds, such as Asparagopsis taxiformis, which contain bromoform, a bioactive compound shown to significantly reduce enteric methane production. However, bromoform raises environmental concerns including its potential carcinogenicity and ozone-depletion effects. This study systematically reviews the environmental and ozone-related impacts of scaling up seaweed production for enteric methane reduction in livestock. Key challenges include sustainability, biodiversity risks, and upstream emissions possibly offsetting the methane reduction gains. Animal health concerns, such as reduced weight gain and mucosal irritation, also warrant attention. Additionally, supply chain logistics, cultivation and harvesting practices, and bromoform retention remain underdeveloped. The limited assessment of the ozone depletion potential underscores the need for further research. These findings highlight the need for techno-feasibility and life cycle assessment before scaling up seaweed-based solutions. A broader approach to methane mitigation, beyond feed additives, is essential to ensure sustainable outcomes for livestock agriculture. Full article

19 pages, 4391 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Stepwise Multi-Temporal Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar with Partially Coherent Scatterers for Long-Time Series Deformation Monitoring

by Jinbao Zhang, Wei Duan, Xikai Fu, Ye Yun and Xiaolei Lv

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(8), 1374; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17081374 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

In recent decades, the interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) technique has emerged as a powerful tool for monitoring ground subsidence and geohazards. Various satellite SAR systems with different modes, such as Sentinel-1 and Lutan-1, have produced abundant SAR datasets with wide coverage and [...] Read more.

In recent decades, the interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) technique has emerged as a powerful tool for monitoring ground subsidence and geohazards. Various satellite SAR systems with different modes, such as Sentinel-1 and Lutan-1, have produced abundant SAR datasets with wide coverage and large historical archives, which have significantly influenced long-term deformation monitoring applications. However, large-scale InSAR data have posed significant challenges to conventional InSAR methods. These issues include the computational burden and storage of multi-temporal InSAR (MT-InSAR) methods, as well as temporal decorrelation for coherent scatterers with long temporal baselines. In this study, we propose a stepwise MT-InSAR with a temporal coherent scatterer method to address these problems. First, a batch sequential method is introduced in the algorithm by grouping the SAR dataset in the time domain based on the average coherence distribution and then applying permanent scatterer interferometry to each temporal subset. Second, a multi-layer network is employed to estimate deformation for partially coherent scatterers using small baseline subset interferograms, with permanent scatterer deformation parameters as the reference. Finally, the final deformation rate and displacement time series were obtained by incorporating all the temporal subsets. The proposed method efficiently generates high-density InSAR deformation measurements for long-time series analysis. The proposed method was validated using 9 years of Sentinel-1 data with 229 SAR images from Jakarta, Indonesia. The deformation results were compared with those of conventional methods and global navigation satellite system data to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method. Full article

12 pages, 2162 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Secondary Findings from Exome Sequencing of a Greek Cohort

by Charilaos Kostoulas, Athanasia Sesse, Ioanna Bouba, Spyridon Konitsiotis, Sofia Markoula and Ioannis Georgiou

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(4), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47040272 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Exome sequencing (ES) is an essential part in clinical diagnosis of hereditary disorders. However, ES can reveal secondary findings (SFs) in medically actionable genes that are not related to the patient’s phenotype. In this study, we performed ES to 280 unrelated individuals of [...] Read more.

Exome sequencing (ES) is an essential part in clinical diagnosis of hereditary disorders. However, ES can reveal secondary findings (SFs) in medically actionable genes that are not related to the patient’s phenotype. In this study, we performed ES to 280 unrelated individuals of a Greek cohort and calculated the frequency of SFs in 81 ACMG SF v3.2 genes. Variants were classified using the standards and guidelines established by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). We identified 12 individuals (4.3%) who carried a pathogenic (P)/likely pathogenic (LP) variant in genes associated with dominant disorders. The variants were found in genes BRCA1, BRCA2, MSH6, LDLR, MYH7, and TTN. Notably, we discovered a P founder variant for the Greek population and one P variant with high prevalence in BRCA1 gene. Additionally, we observed a high prevalence of P/LP variants in the LDLR gene. In conclusion, this is the first study that calculates the prevalence of P/LP variants in the ACMG actionable gene list for SFs in Greece. The results of our study could serve as a guide for the national carrier screening program and may contribute to the precise treatment of certain human disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics and Systems Biology)

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25 pages, 507 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Relationship Between Nutrition Knowledge and Dietary Intake of University Students: A Scoping Review

by Michelle O’Leary, Elaine Mooney and Amanda McCloat

Dietetics 2025, 4(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4020016 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study aimed to provide an overview of published studies that assess the relationship between nutrition knowledge and dietary intake among university students. A scoping review was undertaken and articles assessing the relationship between nutrition knowledge and dietary intake among university students were [...] Read more.

This study aimed to provide an overview of published studies that assess the relationship between nutrition knowledge and dietary intake among university students. A scoping review was undertaken and articles assessing the relationship between nutrition knowledge and dietary intake among university students were identified. EMBASE, PsycINFO and Scopus were searched for peer–reviewed articles reporting primary research. The initial search generated 805 potentially relevant articles. After reviewing titles and abstracts and applying the exclusion criteria, 22 articles were deemed eligible for inclusion. Nutrition knowledge was measured in all studies and information was predominantly collected using adapted General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaires (GNKQs). Dietary intake measurement methods varied across the studies, with the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) being commonly used. Findings identified that in most studies a positive relationship was found between nutrition knowledge and dietary intake. The ability to draw strong conclusions about the relationship between nutrition knowledge and dietary intake in university students is limited by the heterogeneity of the study design, the subpopulations considered, and the tools used. Notwithstanding this, findings indicate that the majority of studies reported a positive relationship between nutrition knowledge and dietary intake. Future studies should consider the use of validated assessment tools for both nutrition knowledge and dietary intake and the inclusion of more male student participants. Full article

10 pages, 579 KiB

Open AccessArticle

miR-27a rs895819 Polymorphism and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss in Caucasian Women: A Novel Genetic Risk Factor in a Challenging Fertility Dilemma

by Georgia Panagou, Anastasios Potiris, Dimitra Dedousi, Despoina Mavrogianni, Ioanna Vassilaki, Athanasios Zikopoulos, Efthalia Moustakli, Antonios Sfakianakis, Nikolaos Kathopoulis, Angeliki Gerede, Periklis Panagopoulos, Ekaterini Domali, Peter Drakakis and Sofoklis Stavros

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(4), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47040271 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: This case–control study investigates whether miR-27a rs895819 A>G polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) in Caucasian Greek women. Methods: This study included 93 women with at least two unexplained miscarriages before the 24th week of gestation [...] Read more.

Background: This case–control study investigates whether miR-27a rs895819 A>G polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) in Caucasian Greek women. Methods: This study included 93 women with at least two unexplained miscarriages before the 24th week of gestation (RPL group) and 107 women with no pregnancy loss history (control group). The miR-27a rs895819 A>G polymorphism was detected using PCR amplification, followed by DraIII-HF restriction enzyme digestion. Results: The GG genotype was linked to a significantly higher risk of RPL (p-value = 0.00005), whereas the AA genotype was associated with a significantly lower risk (p-value = 0.00036). The AG genotype appeared more frequently in women with RPL (49.5% vs. 44.9% in controls), but the difference was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.5139). Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that the miR-27a A>G polymorphism was significantly associated with a higher risk of recurrent miscarriage in Caucasian women. These findings provide evidence that the GG genotype may serve as a potential genetic marker for identifying women at higher risk of recurrent miscarriage, offering valuable insights for genetic counseling and reproductive medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Medicine)

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17 pages, 2342 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Folliculin (FLCN) in Thyroid Tumors: Incidence, Significance, and Role as a Driver Gene and Secondary Alteration

by Faisal A. Hassan, Camryn Slone, Robert J. McDonald, Julie C. Dueber, Adeel M. Ashraf, Melina J. Windon, Oliver J. Fackelmayer, Cortney Y. Lee, Therese J. Bocklage and Derek B. Allison

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(4), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32040224 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Thyroid carcinomas are driven by diverse molecular alterations, but the tumor suppressor gene folliculin (FLCN), best known for its role in Birt–Hogg–Dubé (BHD) syndrome, has received limited attention in thyroid tumors. Here, we describe two thyroid tumors with pathogenic FLCN alterations—one [...] Read more.

Thyroid carcinomas are driven by diverse molecular alterations, but the tumor suppressor gene folliculin (FLCN), best known for its role in Birt–Hogg–Dubé (BHD) syndrome, has received limited attention in thyroid tumors. Here, we describe two thyroid tumors with pathogenic FLCN alterations—one germline and one somatic—and analyze the broader prevalence and significance of FLCN in thyroid carcinomas using multiple large sequencing datasets, including ORIEN-AVATAR. Patient 1, with a germline FLCN mutation and a history of BHD syndrome, presented with a well-circumscribed oncocytic adenoma. Molecular testing confirmed biallelic FLCN inactivation, but no additional mutations or aggressive features were observed, and the patient remained disease-free post-thyroidectomy. Patient 2 harbored a somatic FLCN mutation in an oncocytic poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma, which exhibited extensive angioinvasion, high proliferative activity, and concurrent TP53 and RB1 mutations. The tumor progressed with metastatic disease despite multimodal treatment. Thyroid carcinomas revealed FLCN alterations in 1.1% of cases. Pathogenic mutations were rare but associated with oncocytic morphology, while homozygous deletions occurred more frequently in genomically unstable tumors, including anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. These findings suggest FLCN mutations may act as early oncogenic drivers in oncocytic thyroid neoplasms, while deletions represent secondary events in aggressive tumor evolution. The lack of FLCN coverage in standard thyroid molecular panels likely underestimates its clinical relevance. Including FLCN in genetic testing could improve tumor detection and characterization, particularly in BHD patients who may benefit from routine thyroid screening. Further studies are needed to clarify FLCN’s role in thyroid cancer pathogenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Molecular Testing for Thyroid Nodules and Cancer)

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11 pages, 1149 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Neurofilament Light Chain and Multiple Sclerosis: Building a Neurofoundational Model of Biomarkers and Diagnosis

by Rany Aburashed, Ansam Eghzawi, Daniel Long, Robert Pace, Ali Madha and Jeanie Cote

Neurol. Int. 2025, 17(4), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint17040056 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Neurofilament light chain (NfL), an abundant cytoskeletal protein in neurons, has emerged as a promising serum biomarker that indicates non-specific neuronal damage secondary to various neurologic diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Emerging evidence suggests that serum NfL levels correlate with future disability, brain [...] Read more.

Neurofilament light chain (NfL), an abundant cytoskeletal protein in neurons, has emerged as a promising serum biomarker that indicates non-specific neuronal damage secondary to various neurologic diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Emerging evidence suggests that serum NfL levels correlate with future disability, brain atrophy, predict new disease activity, and decrease in response to various disease-modifying therapies. As research continues to validate NfL’s potential role in clinical practice, the need for a practical model to conceptualize and visualize its relevance to MS pathology becomes evident—not only for healthcare providers but also for patients. To address this, we propose the Neurofoundational Model (NFM), which likens a neuron to a home, with various parts of the home representing distinct regions of the central nervous system (CNS). In this model, the home (neuron) experiences scenarios such as a fire, an earthquake, and a slow flood, representing distinct MS disease states. A fire illustrates an MS relapse with good recovery, where serum NfL levels rise during the relapse and subsequently return near baseline. An earthquake represents an MS relapse with poor recovery, where NfL levels increase and remain elevated above baseline. Finally, a slow flood depicts MS in progressive stages, characterized by sustained and gradually increasing serum NfL levels without abrupt clinical changes. This approach offers a clear and relatable visualization for clinicians and patients alike, illustrating the dynamics of serum NfL levels during CNS damage caused by demyelination. By integrating this model into clinical practice, we aim to enhance understanding and communication regarding the role of NfL in MS pathology and its potential utility as a biomarker. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Management of Multiple Sclerosis: Past, Present and Promise)

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16 pages, 5707 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Assessment of Gait and Spinal Kinematics Using Optoelectronic Motion Analysis Systems: Validation and Usability Assessment of a Novel Protocol

by Luigi Piccinini, Luca Emanuele Molteni, Daniele Panzeri, Ettore Micheletti, Giovanni Pintabona and Giuseppe Andreoni

Biomechanics 2025, 5(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5020024 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: Gait assessment is a complex task involving locomotion and balance control across all body segments, requiring a global analysis in the event of motor disorders. Among these are spinal disorders, where an understanding of spinal kinematics during walking is important to improve [...] Read more.

Background: Gait assessment is a complex task involving locomotion and balance control across all body segments, requiring a global analysis in the event of motor disorders. Among these are spinal disorders, where an understanding of spinal kinematics during walking is important to improve treatment decisions and outcomes. The technique of stereophotogrammetric motion analysis is currently the gold standard in this context. A new integrated protocol for whole-body kinematic gait analysis is proposed in this study, which takes into account the movements of the spine. Methods: A new protocol with 30 passive markers was developed to analyze gait. Of these markers, 22 implemented the Davis protocol for gait measurement, while the other 8 were placed onto the spine to record spinal movements. The protocol’s accuracy was assessed through comparisons of the constructive angles of a manikin replicating the human body and the angles measured with the optoelectronic system. An assessment of intra- and inter-operator repeatability and protocol usability was carried out by recruiting and applying the protocol in a population composed of ten subjects (mean age 17.36—SD 10.12) without any history of spine pathology. Results: The protocol was validated successfully. The validation accuracy was more than satisfactory: the measured RMSE was 1.2 ± 1° for the data collected with the optoelectronic system with respect to the manikin. The intra-operator repeatability was also good in the sagittal and frontal planes (average ICC > 0.867), and the inter-operator repeatability was moderate or good in all planes (average ICC > 0.77). The usability score obtained using the System Usability Scale was satisfactory (mean 74.75, SD 5.88). Conclusions: This study proposes a new protocol to assess total body kinematics, including the spine in its three main segments, during gait. The successful validation of this protocol in terms of reliability and usability allows for its subsequent clinical application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gait and Posture Biomechanics)

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15 pages, 1642 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wood Distillate as a Solution for Growing Crops Under Water Deficiency

by Riccardo Fedeli, Zhanna Zhatkanbayeva and Stefano Loppi

Crops 2025, 5(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/crops5020022 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study investigated if the foliar application of wood distillate (WD, a by-product of biomass pyrolysis, containing bioactive compounds, including organic acids and phenols) influences some key parameters (fresh weight, photosynthetic efficiency, antioxidant compounds, stress-related biochemical markers, and mineral content) of basil plants, [...] Read more.

This study investigated if the foliar application of wood distillate (WD, a by-product of biomass pyrolysis, containing bioactive compounds, including organic acids and phenols) influences some key parameters (fresh weight, photosynthetic efficiency, antioxidant compounds, stress-related biochemical markers, and mineral content) of basil plants, used as a model crop, grown under water-limited conditions. The experimental setup included control and WD treatments (applied via foliar application at 0.2%) under three drought levels: no stress, moderate, and high stress. The results indicated that the application of WD contributed to improving the fresh weight, chlorophyll, reduced oxidative stress, and stable levels of essential nutrients across varying drought intensities. These outcomes highlight the potential of WD as an effective biostimulant for enhancing drought tolerance in basil plants under water deficiency. Full article

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11 pages, 1480 KiB

Open AccessEntry

A Guide to a Mixed-Methods Approach to Healthcare Research

by Kritika Rana and Ritesh Chimoriya

Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020051 - 11 Apr 2025

Definition

A mixed-methods approach combines qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex social phenomena in healthcare. This approach leverages the strengths of both methodologies to address research questions that cannot be fully answered by a single method. While quantitative [...] Read more.

A mixed-methods approach combines qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex social phenomena in healthcare. This approach leverages the strengths of both methodologies to address research questions that cannot be fully answered by a single method. While quantitative data offer measurable patterns and generalizability, qualitative research provides critical insights into the human experiences, cultural contexts, and systemic factors that underlie these patterns, and such elements are often missed by purely statistical analyses. Notably, qualitative components can uncover why interventions succeed or fail in real-world settings, adding explanatory power to quantitative results. By integrating numerical data analysis with in-depth contextual insights, mixed-methods research enables researchers to explore, explain, and generalize findings in healthcare settings more holistically than either method could achieve alone. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medicine & Pharmacology)

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53 pages, 13061 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Survey of Sampling Methods for Hyperspectral Remote Sensing: Addressing Bias Induced by Random Sampling

by Kevin T. Decker and Brett J. Borghetti

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(8), 1373; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17081373 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Identified as early as 2000, the challenges involved in developing and assessing remote sensing models with small datasets remain, with one key issue persisting: the misuse of random sampling to generate training and testing data. This practice often introduces a high degree of [...] Read more.

Identified as early as 2000, the challenges involved in developing and assessing remote sensing models with small datasets remain, with one key issue persisting: the misuse of random sampling to generate training and testing data. This practice often introduces a high degree of correlation between the sets, leading to an overestimation of model generalizability. Despite the early recognition of this problem, few researchers have investigated its nuances or developed effective sampling techniques to address it. Our survey highlights that mitigation strategies to reduce this bias remain underutilized in practice, distorting the interpretation and comparison of results across the field. In this work, we introduce a set of desirable characteristics to evaluate sampling algorithms, with a primary focus on their tendency to induce correlation between training and test data, while also accounting for other relevant factors. Using these characteristics, we survey 146 articles, identify 16 unique sampling algorithms, and evaluate them. Our evaluation reveals two broad archetypes of sampling techniques that effectively mitigate correlation and are suitable for model development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Data Processing)

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23 pages, 730 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recommendations and Best Practices for the Risk Assessment of Pressure Injuries in Adults Admitted to Intensive Care Units: A Scoping Review

by Ricardo Picoito, Tânia Manuel, Sofia Vieira, Rita Azevedo, Elisabete Nunes and Paulo Alves

Nurs. Rep. 2025, 15(4), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15040128 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: The prevention of pressure injuries depends on the early and correct assessment of at-risk patients. Since risk assessment involves more than using a risk factor instrument, we intend to map the existing recommendations and statements of good practice for pressure injury risk [...] Read more.

Background: The prevention of pressure injuries depends on the early and correct assessment of at-risk patients. Since risk assessment involves more than using a risk factor instrument, we intend to map the existing recommendations and statements of good practice for pressure injury risk assessment in adults admitted to intensive care units, as well as identify the strengths of the evidence and recommendations in the literature. Methods: This study is a scoping review, guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute framework. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews was adopted as a guide for writing this study. Results: Searches were carried out in six databases, resulting in 794 studies, of which 15 were included. The recommendations and statements of good practice were grouped into five categories: risk assessment instruments, skin assessment, medical device surveillance, other alternatives to risk assessment, and implementing best practices in clinical settings. The strengths of the evidence and recommendations were identified when available in the literature. Conclusions: The mapping showed that the evidence is sufficient to indicate recommendations and statements of good practice for the risk assessment of pressure injuries in adults admitted to intensive care units. The protocol was retrospectively registered in the Open Science Framework on the 4th of August of 2023. Full article

36 pages, 4603 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Different Types of Heat Pump Owners in Austria—Purchase Arguments, User Satisfaction, Operating Habits, and Expectations Regarding Control and Regulation Strategies

by Gabriel Reichert, Sophie Ehrenbrandtner, Robert Fina, Franz Theuretzbacher, Clemens Birklbauer and Christoph Schmidl

Businesses 2025, 5(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses5020018 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Heat pumps (HPs) are considered as a key technology in the future energy system. Besides technical and ecological aspects, user acceptance and user friendliness are also essential. The aim of the study was therefore to research which aspects are decisive for the purchase [...] Read more.

Heat pumps (HPs) are considered as a key technology in the future energy system. Besides technical and ecological aspects, user acceptance and user friendliness are also essential. The aim of the study was therefore to research which aspects are decisive for the purchase decision, which different types of HP owners can be distinguished, how their specific user behavior can be characterized in terms of control and operation, and what their respective requirements and wishes are for the functions and operation of their HPs. A mixed-methods approach in an exploratory sequential design was used. Based on nine qualitative interviews and a survey with 510 respondents, both conducted in Austria, it is observed that the most relevant arguments for the purchase decision of HPs are high environmental friendliness and efficiency, as well as resource independence. Respecting certain usage and requirement patterns, four user types could be identified and defined—the minimalist, the functionalist, the tech-savvy tinkerer, and the anxious user. In the future, intelligent control and regulation approaches and the integration of HPs into a holistic energy and building management system (smart home) will become more important. Based on the results, tailor-made system solutions can be developed, user friendliness optimized, and new services developed. Full article

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52 pages, 6961 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Guiding IT Growth and Sustaining Performance in SMEs Through Enterprise Architecture and Information Management: A Systematic Review

by Andiso Pingilili, Ntebele Letsie, Gift Nzimande, Bonginkosi Thango and Lerato Matshaka

Businesses 2025, 5(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses5020017 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, businesses must adapt to evolving business models and harness the power of data to thrive. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) face significant challenges in aligning IT infrastructure with business objectives while navigating digital transformation. This systematic review, conducted [...] Read more.

In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, businesses must adapt to evolving business models and harness the power of data to thrive. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) face significant challenges in aligning IT infrastructure with business objectives while navigating digital transformation. This systematic review, conducted using PRISMA 2020 guidelines, investigates the role of Enterprise Architecture (EA) and Information Management (IM) in driving IT growth and sustaining competitive performance in SMEs. Through a synthesis of academic research, industry analysis, and case studies from the last decade, this review identifies key frameworks—such as TOGAF, Zachman, and FEAF—that support the alignment of IT capabilities with organizational goals. The integration of IM within EA frameworks is found to enhance decision-making, resource allocation, and operational efficiency. Emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud computing are highlighted for their transformative impact, enabling real-time data analysis, improved scalability, and enhanced agility. Our review reports that 43.44% of the studies focused on cloud-based solutions, while 24.59% adopted hybrid models, offering SMEs scalable and flexible IT infrastructures. The findings emphasize the necessity of strong governance frameworks to ensure compliance, adaptability, and long-term sustainability in a dynamic environment. This research contributes to a comprehensive roadmap for SMEs, enabling them to leverage EA and IM for sustained growth and competitive advantage in the digital era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pioneering Approaches and Global Challenges in Business, Management and Economic Engineering)

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