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18 pages, 1209 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intentional Weight Gain Strategies in Young Adult Athletic Individuals

by Allison D. Sanchez and D. Enette Larson-Meyer

Dietetics 2025, 4(2), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4020013 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Athletic individuals may intentionally aim to gain weight, primarily as lean body mass, to improve athletic performance or to better match opponents’ size. This study aimed to investigate the self-reported nutrition- and exercise-related behaviors of athletic individuals aiming to gain weight. Cross-sectional data [...] Read more.

Athletic individuals may intentionally aim to gain weight, primarily as lean body mass, to improve athletic performance or to better match opponents’ size. This study aimed to investigate the self-reported nutrition- and exercise-related behaviors of athletic individuals aiming to gain weight. Cross-sectional data were drawn from an online survey of athletic adults recruited locally, nationally, and internationally. In total, 168 athletic participants (24 ± 5 years; 29% female, 71% male) completed the survey and were actively attempting or had attempted weight gain in the last 12 months to gain muscle mass (87.5%), for aesthetic reasons (66.1%), or to improve athletic performance (63.7%). The most prevalent dietary strategies reported to increase weight gain were consuming more energy than usual (88.0%) from mainly protein foods (83.9%) and using protein powders (67.3%). In total, 9.6% of participants reported using anabolic hormones. The main exercise change was increased resistance training (81.5%). Our results confirm that both male and female athletic individuals intentionally attempt to gain weight. Nutrition and exercise professionals may use the findings to be aware of these common dietary and exercise strategies and to better educate their athletic clients on appropriate methods that are evidence-based and not detrimental to health. Full article

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41 pages, 10319 KiB

Open AccessReview

BODIPY Dyes: A New Frontier in Cellular Imaging and Theragnostic Applications

by Panangattukara Prabhakaran Praveen Kumar, Shivanjali Saxena and Rakesh Joshi

Colorants 2025, 4(2), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/colorants4020013 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

BODIPY (Boron-Dipyrromethene) dyes have emerged as versatile fluorescent probes in cellular imaging and therapeutic applications owing to their unique chemical properties, including high fluorescence quantum yield, strong extinction coefficients, and remarkable photostability. This review synthesizes the recent advancements in BODIPY dyes, focusing on [...] Read more.

BODIPY (Boron-Dipyrromethene) dyes have emerged as versatile fluorescent probes in cellular imaging and therapeutic applications owing to their unique chemical properties, including high fluorescence quantum yield, strong extinction coefficients, and remarkable photostability. This review synthesizes the recent advancements in BODIPY dyes, focusing on their deployment in biological imaging and therapy. The exceptional ability of BODIPY dyes to selectively stain cellular structures enables precise visualization of lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids within live and tumor cells, thereby facilitating enhanced understanding of biochemical processes. Moreover, BODIPY derivatives are increasingly utilized in Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and Photothermal therapies (PTT) for targeting cancer cells, where their capability to generate cytotoxic reactive oxygen species upon light activation offers a promising approach to tumor treatment. Recently, BODIPY derivatives have been used for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) for various tumors, and it is a growing research field. Advancements in nanotechnology have allowed the fabrication of BODIPY dye-based nanomedicines, either alone or with the use of metallic nanoparticles as a matrix offering the development of a new class of bioimaging and theragnostic agents. This review also discusses innovative BODIPY-based formulations and strategies that amplify therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects, underscoring the potential of these dyes as integral components in next-generation diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. By summarizing current research and future perspectives, this review highlights the critical importance of BODIPY dyes in advancing the fields of cellular imaging and treatment methodologies. Full article

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11 pages, 1066 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Caffeine on THP-1 Myelogenous Cell Inflammatory Gene Expression

by Zeyar T. Htun, Thomas M. Raffay, Richard J. Martin, Peter M. MacFarlane and Tracey L. Bonfield

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(4), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47040248 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Caffeine is administered to preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units for prevention and treatment of apnea of prematurity. Although caffeine’s primary effect is to impact the respiratory drive of preterm infants, caffeine also has anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the role of [...] Read more.

Caffeine is administered to preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units for prevention and treatment of apnea of prematurity. Although caffeine’s primary effect is to impact the respiratory drive of preterm infants, caffeine also has anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the role of caffeine on the inflammatory gene expression in THP-1 pre-monocytes exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro, mimicking a clinical pro-inflammatory scenario. The effects of different physiologic dosages of caffeine administration post-LPS (treatment with caffeine) and pre-LPS (prophylaxis with caffeine) on pro-inflammatory gene expressions (TNF-α, NF-κB, IL-8, PPARγ) of the THP-1 cells were investigated. The post-LPS group showed a dose-dependent decrease in TNF-α at a caffeine concentration of 100 μM and NF-κB gene expression at 50 and 100 μM, with the implication that this is an optimal anti-inflammatory caffeine concentration range. Clinically, this would correspond to a serum caffeine level between 10 and 20 μg/mL, respectively. For the pre-LPS group, TNF-α and NF-κB gene expression decreased at all studied caffeine concentrations. These findings point to caffeine’s potential therapeutic capacity in regulating monocyte inflammatory responses to gram-negative infections in addition to regulating neuron response in the brainstem for preterm infants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Innovative Therapeutic Approaches in Inflammatory Diseases, Pioneering Precision Medicine Solutions)

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19 pages, 897 KiB

Open AccessReview

Orthobiologics Revisited: A Concise Perspective on Regenerative Orthopedics

by Fábio Ramos Costa, Luyddy Pires, Rubens Andrade Martins, Márcia Santos, Gabriel Silva Santos, João Vitor Lana, Bruno Ramos Costa, Napoliane Santos, Alex Pontes de Macedo, André Kruel and José Fábio Lana

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(4), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47040247 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

At the forefront of regenerative medicine, orthobiologics represent a spectrum of biological substances that offer promising alternatives for tissue repair and regeneration. Traditional surgical treatments often involve significant risks, extended recovery periods, and may not fully restore tissue functionality, creating a strong demand [...] Read more.

At the forefront of regenerative medicine, orthobiologics represent a spectrum of biological substances that offer promising alternatives for tissue repair and regeneration. Traditional surgical treatments often involve significant risks, extended recovery periods, and may not fully restore tissue functionality, creating a strong demand for less invasive options. This paper presents a concise overview of orthobiologics, reexamining their role within the broader landscape of regenerative medicine. Beginning with a brief introduction to orthobiologics, the paper navigates through various types of biological materials and their associated mechanisms of action and clinical applications. By highlighting platelet derivatives, bone marrow-derived products, and processed adipose tissue, among others, it underscores the pivotal role of orthobiologics in prompting biological responses like cellular proliferation, differentiation, and angiogenesis, thereby fostering tissue healing. Furthermore, this paper explores the diverse applications of orthobiologics in orthopedic conditions, outlining their utility in the treatment of bone and soft-tissue injuries. Addressing clinical considerations, it discusses safety profiles, efficacy, patient selection criteria, and emerging challenges. With the limitations of traditional medicine becoming more apparent, orthobiologics offer an innovative and less invasive approach to patient care. Looking forward, this paper approaches future directions in orthobiologics research, emphasizing the need for continued innovation and exploration. Through a concise perspective, this paper aims to provide clinicians, researchers, and stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of orthobiologics and their evolving role in regenerative medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Contribution and Application of Molecular Biology in the Applied Biosciences—Focusing on Medicine, Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Fields, 2nd Edition)

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12 pages, 1333 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns and Serological Diversity of Shigella Species from Patient Isolates at University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia

by Mike Nundwe, Joseph Yamweka Chizimu, John Mwaba, Misheck Shawa, Rodrick S. Katete, Mable Mwale Mutengo, Ruth Nakazwe, Namwiinga R. Mulunda, Cephas Sialubanje, Mox Malama Kalumbi, Yamba Kaunda, Rapheal Chanda, Herman Chambaro, Harvey K. Kamboyi, Thoko Kapalamula, Steward Mudenda, Freeman W. Chabala, Bernard M. Hang’ombe, Roma Chilengi, Chie Nakajima and Yasuhiko Suzuki Show full author list Hide full author list

Bacteria 2025, 4(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/bacteria4020018 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: Shigella species are the leading cause of human shigellosis. In Zambia, more than 30% of children experiencing diarrhea are infected with Shigella species. The increasing resistance of Shigella species to the recommended therapy is of great concern. Therefore, this study investigated the [...] Read more.

Background: Shigella species are the leading cause of human shigellosis. In Zambia, more than 30% of children experiencing diarrhea are infected with Shigella species. The increasing resistance of Shigella species to the recommended therapy is of great concern. Therefore, this study investigated the antibiotic resistance profiles and phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of Shigella isolates at the largest referral hospital in Zambia. Methodology: Of the forty-eight archived presumptive Shigella isolates, thirty-two were serologically confirmed and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method. Thereafter, polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect the bla genes. Results: Most isolates were Shigella flexneri (16/32, 50%) and Shigella sonnei (14/32, 44%), while Shigella boydii and Shigella dysenteriae were rare. High resistance rates were noted for sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (78%) and tetracycline (75%), while 15.6% of the isolates showed resistance to ciprofloxacin and/or azithromycin. The bla_TEM gene encoding beta-lactamase was detected in 7/32 (22%) of isolates. Conclusions: In this study, a significant number of multidrug-resistant isolates were identified. Additionally, Shigella species resistant to the World Health Organization-recommended drugs call for strengthened laboratory diagnosis and close monitoring of these pathogens to guide the clinical management of shigellosis. Full article

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21 pages, 11116 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dual-Faced Role of GDF6 in Cancer: Mechanistic Insights into Its Context-Dependent Regulation of Metastasis and Immune Evasion Across Human Malignancies

by Qi Zhu, Jianshu Wei and Weidong Han

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(4), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47040249 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Growth differentiation factor 6 (GDF6), a member of the TGF-β superfamily, plays multifaceted roles in tumorigenesis, yet its molecular mechanisms and cancer-type-specific regulatory networks remain poorly defined. This study investigates GDF6’s context-dependent functions through pan-cancer multi-omics integration and functional validation. Transcriptomic data from [...] Read more.

Growth differentiation factor 6 (GDF6), a member of the TGF-β superfamily, plays multifaceted roles in tumorigenesis, yet its molecular mechanisms and cancer-type-specific regulatory networks remain poorly defined. This study investigates GDF6’s context-dependent functions through pan-cancer multi-omics integration and functional validation. Transcriptomic data from TCGA (33 cancers, n = 10,535) and GTEx were analyzed to assess GDF6 dysregulation. Co-expression networks, pathway enrichment (KEGG/GO), and epigenetic interactions (m6A, m5C, m1A) were explored. Functional assays included siRNA knockdown, wound healing, and validation in immunotherapy cohorts. GDF6 exhibited bidirectional expression patterns, with downregulation in 23 cancers (e.g., GBM, BRCA) and upregulation in 7 malignancies (e.g., KIRC, PAAD). Mechanistically, GDF6 activated the PI3K-Akt/VEGF pathways, thereby promoting angiogenesis and metastasis. It modulated epigenetic regulation through interactions with m6A readers and erasers. Additionally, GDF6 reshaped the immune microenvironment by recruiting myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Notably, GDF6’s dual role extended to immunotherapy: it suppressed anti-PD1 efficacy but enhanced anti-PD-L1 sensitivity, linked to differential MHC-II and hypoxia-response regulation. This study deciphers GDF6’s context-dependent molecular networks, revealing its dual roles in metastasis and immune evasion. These findings highlight GDF6 as a central node in TGF-β-mediated oncogenic signaling and a potential therapeutic target for precision intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Medicine)

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13 pages, 965 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Skin: Deducing the Pattern of Spread from an International Aggregated Database of 949 Patients

by Patricia Tai, Kurian Joseph, Vimal H. Prajapati, Aoife Jones Thachuthara, Jidong Lian, Avi Assouline, Edward Yu and Michael Veness

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(4), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32040211 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

(1) Background: It is controversial if Merkel cell carcinomas (MCCs) spread to lymph nodes or distant metastases (LNM/DM) first. (2) Methods: A total of 303 patients from six institutions (March 1982–February 2015) were combined with individual patient data from a PubMed search, totaling [...] Read more.

(1) Background: It is controversial if Merkel cell carcinomas (MCCs) spread to lymph nodes or distant metastases (LNM/DM) first. (2) Methods: A total of 303 patients from six institutions (March 1982–February 2015) were combined with individual patient data from a PubMed search, totaling 949 patients. The primary outcome was recurrence patterns. (3) Results: (a) More patients presented with lymph node metastases (LNMs) than DMs at diagnosis: 17.9% (166 among the 929 patients with known staging) vs. 1.9% (18/929); (b) 310/929 (33.4%) developed lifetime DM, of whom 220/310 also developed LNM. The majority (133 patients) of patients were documented to have developed LNM before DM. (c) A shorter median time of 1.5 months (range: 0–47.0) from initial diagnosis to LNM, versus 8 months (range: 0–107.8) to DM, was also found. Another observation was that 2.4% (23/949) of patients with primary tumors ≤1 cm developed lifetime DM, with the smallest being 0.2 cm. (4) Conclusions: Three observations support the idea that prior LNM gives rise to subsequent DM as the main pathway of dissemination in MCC. This implies that patients with nodal metastases should be considered for adjuvant systemic therapy studies as an enriched population. Participation in clinical trials is strongly encouraged. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Dermato-Oncology)

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10 pages, 406 KiB

Open AccessReview

The MAPK Response to Virus Infection Is Modified by Probenecid

by Les P. Jones, David E. Martin and Ralph A. Tripp

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(4), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47040246 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) annually cause respiratory illness, which may result in substantial disease and mortality in susceptible individuals. Viruses exploit host cell machinery for replication, which engages the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway. The MAPK signaling pathways are [...] Read more.

Respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) annually cause respiratory illness, which may result in substantial disease and mortality in susceptible individuals. Viruses exploit host cell machinery for replication, which engages the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway. The MAPK signaling pathways are triggered by pattern recognition receptors that recognize the pathogen, infection, or external stimuli, leading to the induction and regulation of immunity and inflammation. Probenecid, used to improve renal function by inhibiting the tubular reabsorption of uric acid, has been shown to have therapeutic efficacy in reducing inflammation and blocking viral replication by inhibiting components of the MAPK pathway that preclude virus replication. This review summarizes key molecular cascades in the host response to virus recognition, infection, and replication and how this can be altered by probenecid treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Biology of Viral Replication and Associated Disease Outcomes)

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14 pages, 896 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing First and Multiple Reoperations in 23,301 Breast Reconstructions: Immediate Versus Delayed Reconstructions in Women with Breast Cancer

by Kathryn E. Royse, Tina M. Smith, Cissy M. Tan, Eric Y. Lin, Robert G. Neumann, Jessica E. Harris, Elizabeth W. Paxton and Winnie M. Tong

Onco 2025, 5(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/onco5020015 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: Few studies have compared the risk of reoperation by timing in breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomy. We evaluated the first and total number of reoperations by reconstruction timing in women with breast cancer undergoing primary mastectomy. Methods: A cohort study of 23,301 [...] Read more.

Background: Few studies have compared the risk of reoperation by timing in breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomy. We evaluated the first and total number of reoperations by reconstruction timing in women with breast cancer undergoing primary mastectomy. Methods: A cohort study of 23,301 primary mastectomies in women with breast cancer undergoing either immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) or delayed reconstruction was carried out within Kaiser Permanente between 2010 and 2022. The first reoperation rate was calculated using cause-specific Cox Proportional Hazards Models, while Multiplicative Cox Proportional Hazards Models were used to account for mortality and timing in reoperation. Patients were continuously monitored for death, outcome of interest, loss to follow-up through healthcare membership termination, or study end date (31 December 2022). Results: In total, 78.4% (n = 18,276) of the cohort underwent IBR. The average follow-up time was 5.9 years (±3.8). The following covariates were imbalanced (standardized mean difference [SMD] ≥ 0.20) between IBR and delayed groups: BMI, smoking status, year of mastectomy, bilateral procedures, and reconstruction type. The crude incidence of first reoperation was 33.04% vs. 31.72% in IBR vs. delayed patients and the risk of reoperation was 18% higher in IBR patients (HR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.12–1.25). There was no difference in the risk of reoperation by timing (p > 0.05) when assessing multiple reoperations. The reoperation risk was the highest for IBR patients who did not complete reconstruction or single-stage reconstruction. In addition, the first reoperation rate of IBR patients was higher in those who underwent expander–implant-based reconstruction. Conclusions: The first reoperation rate was higher in IBR patients compared to those who delayed reconstruction, although we failed to detect a difference for multiple returns to surgery, except in certain subgroups. Assessing reoperation risk by timing among different reconstruction modalities can aid patients in making informed decisions about the type of breast reconstruction to undergo. Full article

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25 pages, 7688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combining Geographic Information Systems and Hydraulic Modeling to Analyze the Hydraulic Response of an Urban Area Under Different Conditions: A Case Study to Assist Engineering Practice

by Panagiota Galiatsatou, Panagiota Stournara, Ioannis Kavouras, Michail Raouzaios, Christos Anastasiadis, Filippos Iosifidis, Dimitrios Spyrou and Alexandros Mentes

Geographies 2025, 5(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/geographies5020017 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Detailed hydraulic modeling of a water distribution network (WDN) in an urban area is implemented therein, based on data from geoinformatic tools (GIS), to investigate and analyze the network’s hydraulic response to different scenarios of operation. A detailed mapping of the water meters [...] Read more.

Detailed hydraulic modeling of a water distribution network (WDN) in an urban area is implemented therein, based on data from geoinformatic tools (GIS), to investigate and analyze the network’s hydraulic response to different scenarios of operation. A detailed mapping of the water meters of the consumers in the urban district is therefore conducted in the frame of a District Metered Area (DMA) zoning. Different consumptions according to water meters and patterns of daily water demand, resulting from both theoretical and measured data from a limited number of smart meters, are used in the hydraulic simulations. The analysis conducted assists common engineering practice to identify critical locations for constructing new hydraulic infrastructure, resulting in the restructuring and reorganization of the DMA, assisting to face existing and common problems of WDNs within the general framework of DMA design and efficient water management. A case study on the WDN of Efkarpia, located in the city of Thessaloniki, Greece, satisfying the principal design criteria of DMAs, is presented in this work, under both normal and emergency conditions. Hydraulic analysis is performed based on different scenarios, mainly consisting of different consumptions according to water meters and different demand patterns, all resulting in high pressures in the southern part of the DMA. Hydraulic simulations are then performed considering two basic operating scenarios, namely the operation of the old DMA of Efkarpia and a new DMA, which is reduced in size. The two scenarios are compared in terms of estimated pressures in the studied area, as well as in terms of energy consumption in the upstream pumping station. The comparisons reveal that the new DMA outperforms the old one, with a large increase in the pressure at nodes where low pressures were assessed in the old DMA, a reduction in daily pressure variation up to 45%, and quite significant energy savings assessed around 21.6%. Full article

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26 pages, 3432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pristine and Reassembled Nanosheets of Layered Perovskite-like Titanates HLnTiO₄ and H₂Ln₂Ti₃O₁₀ (Ln = La, Nd) as Photocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution

by Sergei A. Kurnosenko, Oleg I. Silyukov, Ivan A. Rodionov, Iana A. Minich and Irina A. Zvereva

Solids 2025, 6(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/solids6020016 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Layered Ruddlesden–Popper titanates HLnTiO₄ and H₂Ln₂Ti₃O₁₀ (Ln = La, Nd) have been exfoliated into nanosheets in aqueous tetrabutylammonium hydroxide and systematically investigated as hydrogen evolution photocatalysts. The nanosheets were tested both in as-prepared pristine form [...] Read more.

Layered Ruddlesden–Popper titanates HLnTiO₄ and H₂Ln₂Ti₃O₁₀ (Ln = La, Nd) have been exfoliated into nanosheets in aqueous tetrabutylammonium hydroxide and systematically investigated as hydrogen evolution photocatalysts. The nanosheets were tested both in as-prepared pristine form and after reassembly by two methods (simple filtration and precipitation by hydrochloric acid). The nanosheet-based samples demonstrated by up to 88 times greater photocatalytic performance in comparison with the bulk precursors and, after modification with a Pt cocatalyst, provided apparent quantum efficiency of hydrogen generation up to 14.2% in 1 mol.% aqueous methanol and 3.15% in pure water. It was established that the form in which the nanosheets are used strongly affects the hydrogen production efficiency: the latter typically decreases when moving from the pristine nanosheets to filtered ones and then to those restacked by hydrochloric acid, which is determined by the difference in their physical–chemical characteristics being influenced by the reassembly approach. Full article

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5 pages, 532 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Control of Neobenedenia sp. Infestations in the Ocean Tank at Gran Acuario Mazatlán

by Francisco Neptalí Morales-Serna, Dania López-Moreno, José Antonio Velázquez Garay and Luis Antonio Rendón-Martínez

Parasitologia 2025, 5(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/parasitologia5020016 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

The Gran Acuario Mazatlán (GAM), Mexico’s largest aquarium, is located at the entrance of the Gulf of California. In April 2023, fish in the Ocean Tank (OT) began exhibiting disease symptoms, followed by significant mortality, primarily affecting Caranx caninus, Chaetodipterus zonatus, [...] Read more.

The Gran Acuario Mazatlán (GAM), Mexico’s largest aquarium, is located at the entrance of the Gulf of California. In April 2023, fish in the Ocean Tank (OT) began exhibiting disease symptoms, followed by significant mortality, primarily affecting Caranx caninus, Chaetodipterus zonatus, and Lutjanus colorado. Parasitological examinations identified heavy infestations of Neobenedenia sp. (Monogenea: Capsalidae), with parasites extensively covering body surfaces and gills of some individuals. To control the outbreak, an environmental management strategy was implemented, involving a gradual reduction in water temperature (from 26 °C to 22 °C) and salinity (from 35 ppt to 26 ppt), increased cleaning frequency, and parasite egg abundance monitoring. Over time, egg abundance declined, and by July, fish behavior and feeding rates had returned to normal, with parasite-associated mortality dropping below 2%. Preventive measures, including strict quarantine protocols for new fish, have been implemented to maintain optimal conditions in the OT. This case highlights the challenges of managing parasite outbreaks in large, multi-species aquaria and underscores the importance of environmental control strategies in marine animal care. Full article

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17 pages, 1547 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Biocatalysis of Xylitol Monoferulate: Candida antarctica Lipase B-Mediated Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Bifunctional Prodrug

by Federico Zappaterra, Francesco Presini, Domenico Meola, Chaimae Chaibi, Simona Aprile, Lindomar Alberto Lerin and Pier Paolo Giovannini

BioTech 2025, 14(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/biotech14020025 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Natural compounds with significant bioactive properties can be found in abundance within biomasses. Especially prominent for their anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities are cinnamic acid derivatives (CAs). Ferulic acid (FA), a widely studied phenylpropanoid, exhibits a broad range of therapeutic and nutraceutical [...] Read more.

Natural compounds with significant bioactive properties can be found in abundance within biomasses. Especially prominent for their anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities are cinnamic acid derivatives (CAs). Ferulic acid (FA), a widely studied phenylpropanoid, exhibits a broad range of therapeutic and nutraceutical applications, demonstrating antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and hepato- and neuroprotective activities. This research investigates the green enzymatic synthesis of innovative and potentially bifunctional prodrug derivatives of FA, designed to enhance solubility and stability profiles. Selective esterification was employed to conjugate FA with xylitol, a biobased polyol recognized for its bioactive antioxidant properties and safety profile. Furthermore, by exploiting t-amyl alcohol as a green solvent, the enzymatic synthesis of the derivative was optimized for reaction parameters including temperature, reaction time, enzyme concentration, and molar ratio. The synthesized derivative, xylitol monoferulate (XMF), represents a novel contribution to the literature. The comprehensive characterization of this compound was achieved using advanced spectroscopic methods, including ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, COSY, HSQC, and HMBC. This study represents a significant advancement in the enzymatic synthesis of high-value biobased derivatives, demonstrating increased biological activities and setting the stage for future applications in green chemistry and the sustainable production of bioactive compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Industrial Biotechnology)

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16 pages, 1449 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Essential Oil Composition in Commercial Samples of Verbena officinalis L. Herb from Different Origins

by Ain Raal, Getter Dolgošev, Tetiana Ilina, Alla Kovalyova, Martin Lepiku, Andriy Grytsyk and Oleh Koshovyi

Crops 2025, 5(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/crops5020016 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

The key objective of this study was to determine the yield and chemical composition of eight commercial samples and one collected sample of common vervain (Verbena officinalis L.) herb essential oil (EO) originating from seven different countries, and subsequently, to assess its [...] Read more.

The key objective of this study was to determine the yield and chemical composition of eight commercial samples and one collected sample of common vervain (Verbena officinalis L.) herb essential oil (EO) originating from seven different countries, and subsequently, to assess its potential for treating anxiety and depression. According to GC-MS analysis, 90 compounds were identified, 49 of which were discovered for the first time in V. officinalis EO. The plants with the highest oil content are from Greece (4.7 mL/kg) and South Carolina, USA (5.2 mL/kg). The chemical markers for the studied chemotypes of EO of V. officinalis are the terpenoids o-cymene, p-cymene, L-carvone, thymol, carvacrol, α-curcumin, hexahydrofarnesyl acetone, phytol, (E)-β-ionone, and phenylpropene anethole. The chemotype from the UK demonstrated the greatest affinity to the continuum under study; it has the highest levels of similarity—85.2% with the chemotype from Greece, 69.4% with the chemotype from the USA, 68.2% with the chemotype from Estonia (2), 58.7% with the chemotype from Germany, and 58.6% with the chemotype from Hungary. The chemotypes identified have the potential for use in the treatment of anxiety and depression. Full article

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16 pages, 1926 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Contribution of Citizen Science Data on the Evaluation of Local Biodiversity of Benthic Macroinvertebrate Communities

by Alessandro Lagrotteria, Samuele Roccatello and Alberto Doretto

Ecologies 2025, 6(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecologies6020031 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Citizen science is increasingly utilized for environmental monitoring and educational purposes. For lotic ecosystems, this approach could be used to implement traditional methods and gain more data on local biodiversity, particularly in areas where professional monitoring is limited. This study, conducted in Italy, [...] Read more.

Citizen science is increasingly utilized for environmental monitoring and educational purposes. For lotic ecosystems, this approach could be used to implement traditional methods and gain more data on local biodiversity, particularly in areas where professional monitoring is limited. This study, conducted in Italy, aimed to complement data on river macroinvertebrates collected by the Regional Environmental Protection Agency (ARPA) with additional data gained by volunteers. Our results revealed taxonomic differences between the macroinvertebrate communities of ARPA and citizen science sites. ARPA sites host 34.4% of the total biodiversity, with 22 exclusive taxa, while citizen science sites, with 6 exclusive taxa, represent 9.4% of the total gamma diversity. Compositional differences are mainly explained by taxa turnover between sites. ARPA sites, located along the main river stretches, are richer in alpha and gamma diversity, while volunteer-monitored sites, mostly in agricultural ditches, show lower richness at the local and regional scales but host some unique taxa, increasing the total biodiversity. This study supports the implementation of volunteer programs to increase the number of monitored rivers, enhancing information on macroinvertebrate diversity and distribution and generating relevant data to support decision-making and develop strategies for river conservation and ecosystem restoration at a local scale. Full article

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16 pages, 1708 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Insights of Lithium Chloride Therapeutic Approach for Managing Type 2 Diabetic Kidney Disease: Crosslinking Tau Hyperphosphorylation and TGF Beta Signaling

by Layal Abou Assi, Fatima A. Saleh, Mahmoud I. Khalil and Assaad A. Eid

Diabetology 2025, 6(4), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology6040026 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) represents a chronic microvascular complication with diabetes, affecting around one-third of diabetic individuals. Despite current therapies, progression to end-stage kidney disease remains a challenge. Abnormal hyperphosphorylation of the Tau protein is implicated in various age-related diseases. This study [...] Read more.

Background: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) represents a chronic microvascular complication with diabetes, affecting around one-third of diabetic individuals. Despite current therapies, progression to end-stage kidney disease remains a challenge. Abnormal hyperphosphorylation of the Tau protein is implicated in various age-related diseases. This study aimed to explore the link between renal Tau protein hyperphosphorylation and kidney damage in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: Sprague Dawley rats were administered lithium chloride (LiCl), an inhibitor of a glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) inhibitor known to reduce Tau hyperphosphorylation. LiCl was administered either daily or every other day at a dosage of 1 mmol/kg. The effects of LiCl on kidney function were assessed through proteinuria, the kidney-to-bodyweight ratio, inflammation, fibrosis, and TGF-β1 expression levels. Results: Diabetic rats exhibited increased proteinuria, renal hypertrophy, inflammation, fibrosis, and elevated TGF-β1 expression. Lithium chloride treatment reduced kidney hypertrophy, inflammation, and fibrosis, indicating that Tau hyperphosphorylation contributes to the pathogenesis of DKD. LiCl also regulated TGF-β1 expression, which was associated with improved renal outcomes. Conclusions: The inhibition of Tau hyperphosphorylation by lithium chloride offers a potential therapeutic strategy for mitigating kidney damage in diabetic kidney disease. This study proposes LiCl as a novel treatment approach to attenuate DKD progression. Full article

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8 pages, 1016 KiB

Open AccessStudy Protocol

Efficacy of Segmental Muscle Vibration on Pain Modulation in Patients with Primary Cervical Dystonia Treated with Botulinum Type-A Toxin: A Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

by Riccardo Buraschi, Paolo Pedersini, Giacomo Redegalli, Rosa Pullara, Joel Pollet, Marina Rossi, Massimiliano Gobbo, Sara Gueli and Maurizio Falso

NeuroSci 2025, 6(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurosci6020030 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Primary cervical dystonia (PCD), or spasmodic torticollis, is a focal dystonia characterized by involuntary and often painful muscle contractions, leading to abnormal cervical movements and postures. While botulinum toxin injections are the first-line treatment, additional therapies, such as segmental muscle vibration (SMV), remain [...] Read more.

Primary cervical dystonia (PCD), or spasmodic torticollis, is a focal dystonia characterized by involuntary and often painful muscle contractions, leading to abnormal cervical movements and postures. While botulinum toxin injections are the first-line treatment, additional therapies, such as segmental muscle vibration (SMV), remain underexplored. SMV, a non-invasive neuromodulation technique, may enhance motor cortex excitability and promote neuroplasticity, offering potential benefits in PCD management. This single-center triple-blinded randomized controlled trial evaluates SMV’s efficacy in reducing dystonic pain and improving quality of life in PCD patients undergoing standardized rehabilitation after botulinum toxin treatment. Participants with a pain level of ≥3 on the Numerical Rating Scale will be randomized into two groups. The experimental group will receive 80 Hz SMV during a 10-session rehabilitation program, while the control group will undergo sham SMV. Both groups will follow identical physiotherapy and occupational therapy protocols. The primary outcomes include changes in pain intensity and function, assessed at baseline, mid-treatment, and post-treatment using validated scales. The secondary outcomes will evaluate quality of life and patient satisfaction. This study hypothesizes that SMV will significantly reduce dystonic pain and enhance quality of life, supporting its integration into multidisciplinary rehabilitation for dystonic disorders. Trial registration number: NCT06748846. Full article

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10 pages, 287 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effect of GnRH Analog Therapy on Adult Height in Girls with Idiopathic Central Precocious Puberty

by Reiko Saito and Yukihiro Hasegawa

Endocrines 2025, 6(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines6020016 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Precocious puberty (PP) is characterized by the early onset of secondary sexual characteristics and accelerated growth, which often result in compromised adult height (AH). Central precocious puberty (CPP), a subset of PP, is treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs (GnRHa) to suppress premature hormonal [...] Read more.

Precocious puberty (PP) is characterized by the early onset of secondary sexual characteristics and accelerated growth, which often result in compromised adult height (AH). Central precocious puberty (CPP), a subset of PP, is treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs (GnRHa) to suppress premature hormonal activation and delay epiphyseal closure, thereby preserving height potential. The present review examined the effects of GnRHa on AH outcomes in girls with idiopathic CPP. Although AH is greater with GnRHa therapy than without it, the treatment does not consistently restore the patient’s genetic potential. The benefits of the treatment are most evident in girls in whom idiopathic CPP is diagnosed before 6 years of age and they achieve a height gain of 4.5–14.1 cm, which is unattainable without treatment. However, the treatment of older children (ages 6–8) shows conflicting results, with the AH outcome varying among previous reports. In particular, slowly progressive CPP is known to have a favorable height prognosis even without treatment. Another factor influencing the AH prognosis is the timing of GnRHa discontinuation; the best time to discontinue GnRHa therapy for the best AH outcome is reportedly the bone age of approximately 12 years. In conclusion, although GnRHa therapy significantly improves the AH, especially in early-onset CPP, its effectiveness is uncertain in borderline or late-onset cases. Further research is required to formulate more precise criteria for patient selection and treatment discontinuation to optimize height outcome in girls with idiopathic CPP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Endocrinology and Growth Disorders)

16 pages, 3399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Systemic Optimization of Electric Vehicles Power System

by Saber Hadj Abdallah, Motab Turki Almousa, Fatma Ben Salem and Souhir Tounsi

World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(4), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16040207 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative study between two permanent magnet motor structures, one with trapezoidal waveforms and the other with sinusoidal waveforms, from the perspective of production cost, dynamic characteristic performance, and energy economy. The novel element of the research is also in [...] Read more.

This paper presents a comparative study between two permanent magnet motor structures, one with trapezoidal waveforms and the other with sinusoidal waveforms, from the perspective of production cost, dynamic characteristic performance, and energy economy. The novel element of the research is also in using an electromagnetic converter to reduce the vehicle’s overall energy consumption and to push the multiple disadvantages of using the insolated bipolar transistors. This study is based on the sizing of the electromagnetic converter and the two motor structures using the method of combined analytical finite elements. The program for sizing is coupled with two control laws relating to the motor types in order to choose the top performers according to good dynamic characteristics and energy saving. The simulation results show, on the one hand, the equivalence of these structures from a dynamic characteristic point of view and, on the other hand, that the trapezoidal waveform motor structure is more economical. The design of an excitation system optimizing the consumed energy equipped by a hybrid excitation motor is also developed. Full article

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14 pages, 1258 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential Use of Herbicide Seed Safener and Pre-Emergent Residual Herbicides When Establishing Tropical Perennial Grasses—A Preliminary Study

by Suzanne P. Boschma, Hugh W. McDouall and Jonathan W. McLachlan

Seeds 2025, 4(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/seeds4020018 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Annual grass weeds can provide significant competition to an establishing sown tropical perennial grass pasture. At least two years of grass weed control prior to sowing is required to reduce the weed seed bank. Pre-emergent herbicides used in summer cereals, such as atrazine [...] Read more.

Annual grass weeds can provide significant competition to an establishing sown tropical perennial grass pasture. At least two years of grass weed control prior to sowing is required to reduce the weed seed bank. Pre-emergent herbicides used in summer cereals, such as atrazine or s-metolachlor with metcamifen seed safener, may reduce this preparation time. Two controlled-environment experiments were conducted to assess the potential for these pre-emergent herbicides to be used with several tropical perennial grasses. Experiment 1 tested the effect of metcamifen (400 g L⁻¹ a.i. at 0–2× label rate) on the emergence and vigor of Chloris gayana, Dichanthium aristatum, Digitaria eriantha and Panicum coloratum, with Sorghum bicolor as the control. Experiment 2 tested the effect of s-metolachlor (960 g ha⁻¹ a.i.) with metcamifen-treated or untreated seed, and atrazine (1800 g ha⁻¹ a.i.) on the emergence and early growth of the grasses. Metcamifen did not inhibit emergence or vigor of the grasses. Without metcamifen seed treatment, s-metolachlor reduced the growth of the tropical perennial grasses by 47–100%, while it had no such effect on S. bicolor. In contrast, there was no effect of atrazine on shoot yields of the grasses, nor of s-metolachlor when D. aristatum, D. eriantha and P. coloratum seed had been treated with metcamifen. The collective results indicate that the herbicide safener metcamifen does not reduce the viability of tropical perennial grass seed and provides some protection against s-metolachlor, albeit not complete protection at the rates used in our study. Atrazine did not affect emergence or early growth of the grasses. Full article

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18 pages, 3958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AI-Driven UAV Surveillance for Agricultural Fire Safety

by Akmalbek Abdusalomov, Sabina Umirzakova, Komil Tashev, Nodir Egamberdiev, Guzalxon Belalova, Azizjon Meliboev, Ibragim Atadjanov, Zavqiddin Temirov and Young Im Cho

Fire 2025, 8(4), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire8040142 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

The increasing frequency and severity of agricultural fires pose significant threats to food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Traditional fire-detection methods, relying on satellite imagery and ground-based sensors, often suffer from delayed response times and high false-positive rates, limiting their effectiveness in [...] Read more.

The increasing frequency and severity of agricultural fires pose significant threats to food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Traditional fire-detection methods, relying on satellite imagery and ground-based sensors, often suffer from delayed response times and high false-positive rates, limiting their effectiveness in mitigating fire-related damages. In this study, we propose an advanced deep learning-based fire-detection framework that integrates the Single-Shot MultiBox Detector (SSD) with the computationally efficient MobileNetV2 architecture. This integration enhances real-time fire- and smoke-detection capabilities while maintaining a lightweight and deployable model suitable for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based agricultural monitoring. The proposed model was trained and evaluated on a custom dataset comprising diverse fire scenarios, including various environmental conditions and fire intensities. Comprehensive experiments and comparative analyses against state-of-the-art object-detection models, such as You Only Look Once (YOLO), Faster Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (Faster R-CNN), and SSD-based variants, demonstrated the superior performance of our model. The results indicate that our approach achieves a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 97.7%, significantly surpassing conventional models while maintaining a detection speed of 45 frames per second (fps) and requiring only 5.0 GFLOPs of computational power. These characteristics make it particularly suitable for deployment in edge-computing environments, such as UAVs and remote agricultural monitoring systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrating AI and Remote Sensing for Monitoring and Mapping Fire Impacts on Agroforestry and Wildlife Systems)

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17 pages, 6098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Use of Cellulose Fibres from Posidonia oceanica to Obtain Chitosan Biocomposites and Poly(lactic Acid) Laminates

by Paula Camarena-Bononad, Pedro A. V. Freitas, Amparo Chiralt and Maria Vargas

Polysaccharides 2025, 6(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/polysaccharides6020027 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

New sustainable materials have been developed to replace conventional plastics obtained from non-renewable sources. In this study, cellulose fibres from Posidonia oceanica (PO) were obtained by applying subcritical water extraction and bleaching with hydrogen peroxide or sodium chlorite. The PO fibres were used [...] Read more.

New sustainable materials have been developed to replace conventional plastics obtained from non-renewable sources. In this study, cellulose fibres from Posidonia oceanica (PO) were obtained by applying subcritical water extraction and bleaching with hydrogen peroxide or sodium chlorite. The PO fibres were used to obtain cellulose films, chitosan–cellulose composites, and PLA–cellulose laminates. These films were characterised as to their optical properties, mechanical performance, oxygen and water vapour permeability, thermal stability, and microstructure. The cellulose films exhibited low mechanical resistance, with different colouration depending on the degree of delignification. The composites had lower mechanical strength than pure chitosan films. The PO cellulose fibres had a similar, but attenuated, effect when laminated with PLA layers. The fibres improved the oxygen barrier capacity of chitosan films, although this effect only occurred in PLA laminates for cellulose purified with sodium chlorite. In no case did cellulose improve the water vapour barrier of the films compared to pure polymers. The thermal stability was not notably altered by the blending effect, thus reflecting the absence of significant interactions between the fibres and polymer. However, there is a need to improve the functionality of cellulose fibres from PO waste for their incorporation as fillers or laminates in biodegradable food packaging materials. Full article

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20 pages, 5173 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scarf Adhesive Bonding of 3D-Printed Polymer Structures

by Tiago F. R. Ribeiro, Raul D. S. G. Campilho, Ricardo F. R. Pinto and Ricardo J. B. Rocha

J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2025, 9(4), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9040115 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM) has swiftly emerged as a substitute for conventional methods such as machining and injection moulding. Its appeal is attributed to accelerated prototyping, improved sustainability, and the capacity to fabricate intricate shapes. Nonetheless, the size constraints of additive manufacturing components require [...] Read more.

Additive manufacturing (AM) has swiftly emerged as a substitute for conventional methods such as machining and injection moulding. Its appeal is attributed to accelerated prototyping, improved sustainability, and the capacity to fabricate intricate shapes. Nonetheless, the size constraints of additive manufacturing components require the assembly of smaller 3D-printed elements to create larger structures. This study investigates the tensile properties of scarf joints (SJs) created from several polymers, including ABS, PETG, and PLA, adhered with Araldite^® 2015 and Sikaforce^® 7752 adhesives. The characteristics of the adherends were assessed prior to examining the adhesive efficacy in the SJ configuration. Experimental evaluations quantified failure modes, joint strength, assembly stiffness, and energy at failure, comparing findings with predictions from a cohesive zone model (CZM). The objective was to determine the ideal combination of materials and adhesives for enhanced joint performance. Results indicated that joint performance is greatly affected by the adherend material, adhesive selection, and scarf angle. PLA and Araldite^® 2015 typically exhibited optimal strength and stiffness, but Sikaforce^® 7752 demonstrated enhanced energy absorption for extended bonding lengths. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative and Sustainable Advances in Polymer Composites for Additive Manufacturing: Processing, Microstructure, Machining, and Mechanical Properties)

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21 pages, 3799 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Could Disengagement Reports Indicate Evolution of Autonomous Vehicles?

by Adam Skokan and Jan Mareček

Vehicles 2025, 7(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/vehicles7020032 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

The testing and pilot operations of autonomous vehicles are currently booming in terms of real-world operations. Although the validation and verification methods are not standardized, nor is the legislation, as well as the methodology of data collection on autonomous vehicles’ performance and safety. [...] Read more.

The testing and pilot operations of autonomous vehicles are currently booming in terms of real-world operations. Although the validation and verification methods are not standardized, nor is the legislation, as well as the methodology of data collection on autonomous vehicles’ performance and safety. The safety of autonomous vehicles can be inferred from the collision and disengagement reports provided by manufacturers and operators. This report documents instances when a human driver or operator took control of an autonomous vehicle during testing in detail. Disengagement reports are primarily aimed at safety and performance evaluation of autonomous vehicles, but can they be the basis for determining the readiness of autonomous driving technology and technological progress? This study analyzes disengagement reports to assess their utility in determining autonomous vehicles’ progress and readiness. Our findings indicate a declining trend in reported disengagements, despite increased operational distances, suggesting possible improvements in autonomous vehicle technology. However, disparities in data collection, varying operational design domains, and inconsistent reporting practices among manufacturers limit direct comparability. These factors challenge the reliability of disengagement reports as a definitive measure of technological evolution. The study highlights the need for more standardized and transparent reporting to better assess autonomous vehicle safety and development trends. Full article

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13 pages, 3028 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploiting 1,3-Propanediol Production by a Clostridium beijerinckii Strain: The Role of Glycerol and Ammonium Sulfate Concentrations

by Pedro Felipe Dassie Leonel de Castro, Rafael de Moraes Altafini, Jonatã Bortolucci, Jaques Florêncio, Maria Lucia Arruda Moura Campos and Valeria Reginatto

Fermentation 2025, 11(4), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11040187 (registering DOI) - 2 Apr 2025

Abstract

In this study, we optimized the initial concentrations of glycerol and (NH₄)₂SO₄ to enhance 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) production by Clostridium beijerinckii strain Br21. A central composite rotational design (CCRD) was employed, varying glycerol concentrations between 158 and 441 mmol [...] Read more.

In this study, we optimized the initial concentrations of glycerol and (NH₄)₂SO₄ to enhance 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) production by Clostridium beijerinckii strain Br21. A central composite rotational design (CCRD) was employed, varying glycerol concentrations between 158 and 441 mmol L⁻¹, and (NH₄)₂SO₄ concentrations between 4.4 and 25.8 mmol L⁻¹. The CCRD identified optimal conditions at 441.42 mmol L⁻¹ for glycerol and 25.8 mmol L⁻¹ for (NH₄)₂SO₄. The optimized medium resulted in a 112% increase in 1,3-PDO production compared to the original medium. Analysis of NH₄⁺ and SO₄²⁻ ions under optimal conditions revealed a higher consumption of NH₄⁺ than SO₄²⁻. Furthermore, a quantitative gene expression analysis revealed that while the expression of genes responsible for glycerol uptake and ATP sulfurylase remained unchanged, the expression of the dhaM gene, which encodes the oxidative phosphoenolpyruvate:dihydroxyacetone phosphotransferase, increased approximately 6-fold. In the reductive pathway, the expression of the dhaB1 gene, encoding glycerol dehydratase, and the dhaT gene, encoding 1,3-propanediol dehydrogenase, increased 2.5- and 5-fold, respectively. The upregulation of these genes supports the hypothesis that the optimal concentrations of glycerol and (NH₄)₂SO₄ enhance the 1,3-PDO production by C. beijerinckii Br21. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biorefining for Biofuel Production)

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