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15 pages, 1418 KiB  
Article
Detection and Inhibition of Clostridium perfringens by Cocktail of Star Anise and Thymus Extracts in Chicken Meat Products
by Gamal M. Hamad, Shenoda Gaber Monir Henry, Gamal E. A. El-Rokh, Nadia H. A. Ramadan, Hany S. Abdel Raoof, Ahmed M. Sulaiman, Ahmed M. El-Mesallamy, Samy E. Elshaer, Sara M. Gaber, Ibrahim M. Rabah, Ahmed R. Mahmoud, Mahmoud S. A. Salama, Taha Mehanya and Hesham E. A. Abdelfttah
Pathogens 2025, 14(6), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14060552 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background: The presence of C. perfringens in chicken meat products leads to significant economic losses for the industry and is associated with human food poisoning. It inspires creative answers for novel substances and techniques, such natural antibacterials, for improved prospects in the future. [...] Read more.
Background: The presence of C. perfringens in chicken meat products leads to significant economic losses for the industry and is associated with human food poisoning. It inspires creative answers for novel substances and techniques, such natural antibacterials, for improved prospects in the future. The objective of this study was to examine the antibacterial properties of thymus and star anise extracts for the suppression of Clostridium perfringens in products made from chicken meat. Methods: Thymus and star anise extracts were phytochemically analyzed using the Folin–Ciocalteu spectrophotometric method, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to determine the phenolic compounds, DPPH to determine the antioxidant activity, and the agar disk diffusion assay to determine the antibacterial effect of the star anise. Following treatment with the mixture extract, an experimental application was conducted on chicken burgers. C. perfringens was also found in poultry samples. Lastly, the sensory evaluation of the chicken burger was detected. Results: The findings showed that Clostridium perfringens was present in a large number of chicken meat products, with a significant concentration in chicken thighs (84%), as well as in the mixture extract has the largest concentration of phytochemical components (TPC:123.88 ± 7.42 mg GAE/g, TFC: 69.04 ± 6.37 mg quercetin/g) with strong antibacterial action (the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the mixed extract was 3.12 mg/mL, with an inhibition zone of 13.06 ± 0.91 mm). Also, the addition of mix. extract to chicken burgers extends their shelf life, particularly when the mix content is high. Additionally, the mix. extract shows non-significant effect (p < 0.05) on the chicken burger’s sensory qualities. Conclusions: Finally, we can make use of the mix. extract of thymus and star anise as a natural preservative in chicken meat products especially the chicken burger. Full article
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19 pages, 2273 KiB  
Article
Adsorption Combined with Electrocoagulation Process for Ketoprofen Removal from Aqueous Solution: Optimization Using Central Composite Design
by Katia Madi-Azegagh, Idris Yahiaoui, Rima Arfi, Lydia Benkerrou, Lamia Khenniche, Hafida Lebik, Amine Aymen Assadi, Lotfi Khezami, Karim Kriaa and Farida Aissani-Benissad
Water 2025, 17(11), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17111679 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
The combination of electrocoagulation (EC) with complementary treatment methods has garnered increasing attention for wastewater remediation. This study aims to design and optimize a hybrid electrocoagulation–adsorption (EC/Ads) process for the removal of ketoprofen (KTP) from aqueous solutions. The adsorption of KTP onto activated [...] Read more.
The combination of electrocoagulation (EC) with complementary treatment methods has garnered increasing attention for wastewater remediation. This study aims to design and optimize a hybrid electrocoagulation–adsorption (EC/Ads) process for the removal of ketoprofen (KTP) from aqueous solutions. The adsorption of KTP onto activated carbon (AC) alone exhibited a low removal efficiency of approximately 27% under the following conditions: initial KTP concentration ([KTP]0) = 23 mg·L−1, pH = 6, adsorbent dose (qAC) = 0.5 g, and contact time = 30 min. In contrast, the EC process alone achieved a removal efficiency of 59.69% under similar conditions (current density (i) = 18.6 mA·cm−2, NaCl = 3.5 g·L−1). The combined EC/Ads process significantly enhanced KTP removal, reaching 87.11% under the same operational parameters. The synergistic effect of the combined treatment was quantified with a synergy index of 1.37. Characterization techniques included FTIR analysis of both AC and KTP, as well as adsorption–desorption isotherms and pHPZC determination for AC. To further optimize the EC/Ads process, a response surface methodology based on central composite design (CCD) was applied to assess the influence of four independent variables: pH, [KTP]0, current density, and qAC. Optimal conditions were identified as follows: qAC = 0.63–0.99 g, i = 12.32–14.68 mA·cm−2, pH = 6.5, and [KTP]0 = 22.5 mg·L−1; these conditions resulted in 100% KTP removal after 30 min of treatment. These findings demonstrate the potential of the EC/Ads hybrid process to be an efficient and sustainable alternative for pharmaceutical contaminant removal. Full article
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14 pages, 1161 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Inclisiran on the Subclinical Inflammatory Markers of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Patients at High Cardiovascular Risk
by Mateusz Maligłówka, Adrianna Dec, Łukasz Bułdak and Bogusław Okopień
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(6), 832; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18060832 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hypercholesterolemia, accompanied by vascular inflammation, leads to the premature initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, and both are considered nowadays as well-established cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. For several years, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9is), drugs that reduce the degradation of the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hypercholesterolemia, accompanied by vascular inflammation, leads to the premature initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, and both are considered nowadays as well-established cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. For several years, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9is), drugs that reduce the degradation of the receptors for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLRs), have appeared to be a very efficient lipid-lowering therapy among patients with complications resulting from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Previous studies showed that drugs used to fight hypercholesterolemia (predominantly statins) have significant pleiotropic effects, including anti-inflammatory effects. To date, data on the potential impact of PCSK9 inhibitors, especially inclisiran, on the course of inflammation is still lacking. Therefore, we conceived a study to evaluate the effects of inclisiran on the markers of subclinical inflammation (e.g., pentraxin 3 (PTX3), interleukin-18 (IL-18), and soluble cluster of differentiation 40 ligand (CD40L)) and compared their magnitude in patients at high CV risk, with and without established heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). Methods: A total of 24 patients at high cardiovascular risk, according to European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines, with or without concomitant HeFH diagnosed using Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) criteria, were enrolled in this study. Lipid concentrations and levels of subclinical inflammatory markers of atherosclerosis were measured at the beginning and after 3 months of therapy. Results: After three months of therapy with inclisiran, a statistically significant reduction included total cholesterol (TC): study group 1: from 287.6 ± 94.15 to 215.2 ± 89.08 [mg/dL], p = 0.022 and study group 2: from 211.71 ± 52.72 to 147.64 ± 55.44 [mg/dL], p < 0.001, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c): study group 1: from 180.79 ± 73.33 to 114.65 ± 71.54 [mg/dL], p = 0.031 and study group 2: from 129.62 ± 46.75 to 63.39 ± 43.6 [mg/dL], p < 0.001. Moreover significant drops were observed in concentrations of PTX3: study group 1: from 1336.33 ± 395.15 to 1121.75 ± 351.17 [pg/mL], p = 0.013 and study group 2: from 1610.76 ± 537.78 to 1376.92 ± 529.19 [pg/mL], p = 0.017), and IL-18: study group 1: from 11.89 (9.72–13.98) to 9.15 (8.62–10.06) [pg/mL], p = 0.005 and study group 2: from 11.58 (10.87–16.97) to 9.65 (8.43–10.95) [pg/mL], p = 0.003). There were no significant changes in the levels of sCD40L. Conclusions: This study confirmed the ability of inclisiran to reduce LDL-c levels in patients at high cardiovascular risk just after one dose of the drug. Furthermore, it appeared that beyond its lipid-lowering effect, the drug may also affect some inflammatory processes involved in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Full article
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17 pages, 1439 KiB  
Article
Monocyte-to-Neutrophil Ratio as an Immunological Marker of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Children with Primary Hypertension
by Katarzyna Dziedzic-Jankowska, Radosław Pietrzak, Michał Szyszka, Adam Bujanowicz, Anna Stelmaszczyk-Emmel, Bożena Werner and Piotr Skrzypczyk
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(11), 3896; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14113896 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Activation of the immune system and subclinical inflammation participate in the pathogenesis of primary hypertension (PH) and the formation of hypertension-mediated organ damage. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between subclinical inflammation and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in pediatric patients [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Activation of the immune system and subclinical inflammation participate in the pathogenesis of primary hypertension (PH) and the formation of hypertension-mediated organ damage. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between subclinical inflammation and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in pediatric patients with PH. Methods: In 34 untreated children with PH (15.1 ± 2.1 years, 28 boys, 6 girls), we investigated markers of subclinical inflammation (high-sensitivity CRP, interleukin 18, and complete blood count-derived indices), parameters of the left ventricle from 2D-echocardiography, office and ambulatory blood pressure, and selected clinical and biochemical parameters. Results: LVH was revealed in 12 (35.3%) patients, and abnormal relative wall thickness (RWT) was found in 6 (17.6%) children. Left ventricular inner dimension at end diastole (LVEDd) Z-score correlated negatively with neutrophils (r = −0.583, p = 0.001), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (r = −0.562, p = 0.002), and positively with monocyte-to-neutrophil ratio (MNR) (r = 0.605, p = 0.001) and left ventricular mass (LVM) for lean body mass Z-score, while LVMI [g/m2] correlated positively with MNR (r = 0.495, p = 0.005 and r = 0.433, p = 0.011). RWT correlated positively with neutrophil count (r = 0.356, p = 0.039 and r = 0.347 p = 0.044) and with monocyte count (r = 0.378, p = 0.027 and r = 0.365, p = 0.034). Patients with LVH had significantly lower NLR (1.430 ± 0.409 vs. 1.797 ± 0.521, p = 0.043) and higher MNR ratios (0.171 ± 0.031 vs. 0.144 ± 0.037, p = 0.042). The receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated good diagnostic profiles for mean platelet volume (MPV), NLR, and MNR as predictors of LVH. In multivariate analysis, MNR was the only significant predictor of LVH (OR: 1.329, 95CI: 1.007–1.756). Conclusions: Monocyte-to-neutrophil ratio may be an easily accessible marker of left ventricular hypertrophy in children with primary hypertension. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathophysiology of Hypertension and Related Diseases)
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19 pages, 6229 KiB  
Article
Vegetation Structure and Environmental Correlates of Climbing Behavior for Desert Shrub Ochradenus baccatus
by Dhafer A. Al-Bakre
Plants 2025, 14(11), 1696; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14111696 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Ochradenus baccatus Delile (Resedaceae) is a widely distributed desert shrub known for its remarkable growth form plasticity, growing either independently or as a facultative climber on other vegetation. Despite its ecological adaptability, the drivers underlying its dual growth strategy remain poorly understood in [...] Read more.
Ochradenus baccatus Delile (Resedaceae) is a widely distributed desert shrub known for its remarkable growth form plasticity, growing either independently or as a facultative climber on other vegetation. Despite its ecological adaptability, the drivers underlying its dual growth strategy remain poorly understood in arid ecosystems. This study aimed to investigate the growth form plasticity of O. baccatus across diverse ecological gradients in Saudi Arabia and identify key environmental and floristic factors influencing its climbing and independent forms. Field surveys were conducted from 2020 to 2024 across 103 sites, using stratified random sampling. At each site, vegetation data were collected using 50 × 50 m quadrats, and species composition, life form percentage, and O. baccatus behavior were recorded. Results revealed clear ecological separation between behaviors. Climbing individuals were associated with higher elevations, greater tree and shrub cover, and moderate soil fertility, while independent individuals were broadly distributed in herbaceous and open habitats. Diversity indices (Shannon, Simpson, evenness) increased with altitude, particularly in climbing habitats. PERMANOVA confirmed significant differences in species composition between behaviors (p = 0.0001), and SIMPER analysis identified species like Haloxylon salicornicum and Zygophyllum album as key contributors in climbing habitats. Indicator species analysis revealed behavior-specific taxa, while CCA demonstrated that rainfall, soil moisture, and temperature were the strongest environmental predictors of growth behavior. This study highlights the ecological flexibility of O. baccatus and the role of environmental filtering and plant community structure in shaping its growth strategy. These results have implications for the growth form plasticity of desert plants and can be applied to vegetation management and restoration in arid ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Behavioral Ecology)
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20 pages, 1980 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Variations and Health Assessment of Heavy Metals and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Ambient Fine Particles (PM1.1) of a Typical Copper-Processing Area, China
by Weiqian Wang, Jie Ruan and Qingyue Wang
Atmosphere 2025, 16(6), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16060674 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the concentrations, health risks, and potential sources of heavy metal elements and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in PM1.1 particles in Zhuji, a major copper-processing city in China. The ratios of heavy metals (summer: 0.906; winter: 0.619) and PAHs (>0.750 [...] Read more.
This study investigates the concentrations, health risks, and potential sources of heavy metal elements and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in PM1.1 particles in Zhuji, a major copper-processing city in China. The ratios of heavy metals (summer: 0.906; winter: 0.619) and PAHs (>0.750 in both seasons) in PM1.1/PM2.0 suggest significant accumulation in ultrafine particles. In winter, heavy metal concentrations in PM1.1 reached up to 448 ng/m3, and PAH concentrations were 13.4 ng/m3—over ten times higher than in summer. Health risk assessments revealed that hazard index (HI) values exceeded 1.00 for five age groups (excluding infants) during winter, indicating chronic exposure risks. Incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) values surpassed the upper acceptable limit (1.0 × 10⁻⁴) for four age groups, with Cr, As, Cd, and Pb as major contributors. PAH-related ILCRs were also elevated in winter, with benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) identified as the most potent carcinogen. Enrichment factor (EF) and principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that industrial activities and traffic emissions were the dominant anthropogenic sources of heavy metals. Diagnostic ratio analysis further showed that PAHs mainly originated from vehicle and coal combustion. These findings provide critical insights into pollution patterns in industrial cities and underscore the importance of targeted mitigation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Quality and Health)
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14 pages, 2068 KiB  
Article
Effect of Tegoprazan on Tacrolimus and Mycophenolate Levels in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Randomized Controlled Study Using a Smart Trial Platform
by Seong-Wook Lee, You Hyun Jeon, Jeong-Hoon Lim, Jung Ju Seo, Hee-Yeon Jung, Ji-Young Choi, Sun-Hee Park, Chan-Duck Kim, Yong-Lim Kim and Jang-Hee Cho
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(6), 830; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18060830 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs) offer rapid gastric acid inhibition and lower toxicity compared to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). This study investigates the drug–drug interaction between P-CABs and immunosuppressants tacrolimus and mycophenolate in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Methods: Sixty-two KTRs were [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs) offer rapid gastric acid inhibition and lower toxicity compared to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). This study investigates the drug–drug interaction between P-CABs and immunosuppressants tacrolimus and mycophenolate in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Methods: Sixty-two KTRs were randomized to receive either 50 mg of tegoprazan or 20 mg of pantoprazole. Patients were monitored using a smart clinical trial platform incorporating remote monitoring and safety management systems, which tracked drug adherence and vital signs. General and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms were surveyed via a self-developed app on patients’ phones. Trough levels of tacrolimus and mycophenolate were measured every 4 weeks over 12 weeks. Results: Medication adherence was 100% in both groups. A total of 13,726 biometric data points and 5031 questionnaire responses were collected, with 5704 feedback messages and 56 video visits conducted. At 12 weeks, the mean trough levels of tacrolimus and mycophenolate were similar between the tegoprazan and pantoprazole groups (5.5 ± 1.6 vs. 5.8 ± 2.0 ng/mL, p = 0.50 and 2.7 ± 1.4 vs. 2.6 ± 1.4 µg/mL, p = 0.57, respectively). The intragroup difference in trough levels from baseline to week 12 was not significant in either group. GI symptoms scores, vital signs, and allograft function remained stable and comparable between groups. Conclusions: Tegoprazan does not alter the blood trough levels of tacrolimus and mycophenolate during the 12-week follow-up in KTRs and has a similar impact on GI symptoms as pantoprazole. This study confirms the feasibility and safety of using a smart clinical trial system with remote monitoring for randomized trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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14 pages, 1040 KiB  
Article
Unveiling the Effects of Two Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Two Temperatures on the Trout RTL-W1 Cell Line Expression of Detoxification-Related Target Genes
by Margarida Vilaça, Telma Esteves, Rosária Seabra, Eduardo Rocha and Célia Lopes
J. Xenobiot. 2025, 15(3), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox15030084 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), prevalent aquatic contaminants, arise from burning fossil fuels, a major source of greenhouse gases driving global warming. PAHs and warmer temperatures individually exert diverse negative effects on aquatic organisms. However, the effects of PAH exposure and/or rising temperature remain [...] Read more.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), prevalent aquatic contaminants, arise from burning fossil fuels, a major source of greenhouse gases driving global warming. PAHs and warmer temperatures individually exert diverse negative effects on aquatic organisms. However, the effects of PAH exposure and/or rising temperature remain largely unknown. Liver in vitro models, like the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) RTL-W1 liver cell line, have been employed to unravel PAH-exposure effects, primarily on cell viability and enzymatic activity. Here, monolayer-cultured (2D) RTL-W1 cells were used to assess the co-exposure effects of temperature (18 and 21 °C) and two PAHs, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and benzo[k]fluoranthene (B[k]F), at 10 and 100 nM. After a 72 h exposure, the cell density and viability were evaluated using the trypan blue and LDH assays. The mRNA levels of the detoxification-associated genes aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A, CYP3A27, glutathione S-transferase omega 1 (GSTO1), uridine diphosphate–glucuronosyltransferase (UGT), catalase (CAT), and multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP2) were measured by RT-qPCR. Temperature influenced cell viability and LDH leakage. Both PAHs reduced the cell density and upregulated the mRNA levels of AhR, CYP1A, CYP3A27, and UGT, while GSTO1 and MRP2 were only augmented after the higher B[k]F concentration. Temperature influenced CAT and UGT expression. There was no interaction between temperature and the PAHs. Overall, the results show that B[k]F has more effects on detoxification targets than B[a]P, whereas a temperature increase mildly affects gene expression. The RTL-W1 in 2D seems useful for unravelling not only the liver effects of PAH but also the impact of temperature stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ecotoxicology)
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16 pages, 910 KiB  
Article
Liver Fibrosis Is Positively and Independently Associated with Leptin Circulating Levels in Individuals That Are Overweight and Obese: A FibroScan-Based Cross-Sectional Study
by Nicole Cerabino, Martina Di Chito, Davide Guido, Vincenza Di Stasi, Caterina Bonfiglio, Giuseppe Lisco, Endrit Shahini, Marianna Zappimbulso, Raffaele Cozzolongo, Valeria Tutino, Arianna Diciolla, Rosanna Mallamaci, Dolores Stabile, Anna Ancona, Sergio Coletta, Pasqua Letizia Pesole, Gianluigi Giannelli and Giovanni De Pergola
Nutrients 2025, 17(11), 1908; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17111908 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is strongly correlated with the severity of obesity, and the extent of liver fibrosis is associated with a higher risk of liver-related complications, cardiovascular events, and overall mortality. Leptin circulating levels are directly correlated with the [...] Read more.
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is strongly correlated with the severity of obesity, and the extent of liver fibrosis is associated with a higher risk of liver-related complications, cardiovascular events, and overall mortality. Leptin circulating levels are directly correlated with the amount of adipose tissue. Aims: In the present study, we investigated the association between circulating leptin levels and liver steatosis and fibrosis. Methods: Eighty-six patients (41.7 ± 12.6 yrs, 35 men, 41%), naïve to medications, who attended the Nutrition Center for the Research and Care of Obesity and Metabolic Diseases at the National Institute of Gastroenterology “Saverio de Bellis” for weight management, were cross-sectionally evaluated. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory data were collected and analyzed. All patients underwent liver ultrasonographic assessment by FibroScan to diagnose liver steatosis (controlled attenuation parameter, CAP > 275 dBm) and fibrosis (liver stiffness measurement, LSM > 8.2 kPa). Results: Sixty-three individuals (73.3%) had liver steatosis, and 17 (19.8%) had liver fibrosis. The mean leptin levels were 22.3 ± 14.1 ng/mL, while the BMI and waist circumference were 36.7 ± 7.2 kg/m2 and 114.5 ± 16.4 cm, respectively. CAP values exhibited no correlation with leptin (r = 0.09, p = 0.436), while a significant connection was seen between leptin and LSM (β = 0.065; p = 0.038). Specifically, for each unit increase in leptin, LSM values were varied by +0.065 units (p = 0.038). This association was independent of gender, age, insulin resistance, adiponectin, RBP4, and visfatin. This is the first study showing these results by using FibroScan assessment in patients naïve to medications. Conclusions: Circulating leptin concentrations are independently correlated with hepatic fibrosis in individuals with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. These findings indicate a function for leptin in promoting liver fibrosis; however, longitudinal studies are required to elucidate the causal nature of this interaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition, Adipose Tissue, and Human Health)
19 pages, 1687 KiB  
Article
Day One Cell-Free DNA Levels as an Objective Prognostic Marker of Mortality in Major Burns Patients
by Sebastian Tullie, Ali Asiri, Animesh Acharjee, Naiem S. Moiemen, Janet M. Lord, Paul Harrison and Jon Hazeldine
Cells 2025, 14(11), 821; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14110821 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background: Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released during tissue damage has attracted interest as a marker of patient outcomes. However, limited research has examined its predictive utility in thermally injured patients. Methods: This study measured cfDNA concentrations across days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 [...] Read more.
Background: Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released during tissue damage has attracted interest as a marker of patient outcomes. However, limited research has examined its predictive utility in thermally injured patients. Methods: This study measured cfDNA concentrations across days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 post-burn in a total cohort of 98 adult patients with total body surface area (TBSA) burns ≥ 15% and healthy controls (HC). CfDNA concentrations in survivors (n = 79) versus non-survivors (n = 16) were compared and area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) models generated to evaluate cfDNA as a predictor of mortality. Results: Patient cfDNA levels were significantly elevated at all time points compared to HC. Positive correlations were identified between day 1 cfDNA concentrations (n = 95) and %TBSA (r = 0.413, p < 0.0005), rBAUX (r = 0.365, p = 0.0005) and SOFA (r = 0.391, p = 0.0002). On day one, cfDNA levels showed good discriminatory ability for distinguishing between survivors and non-survivors (AUROC 0.778), with an optimal cut-off value of 446.37 pg/mL exhibiting a sensitivity of 0.80 and specificity of 0.70. Predictive models built on rBAUX, SOFA, interleukin(IL)-6 and IL-10 generated AUROC values of 0.733, 0.743, 0.472, and 0.688 respectively. Conclusions: Major burns result in immediate and persistent cfDNA elevation, with concentrations on day one higher in non-survivors. Plasma cfDNA concentrations on day one post-burn showed good performance as a prognostic marker for mortality. CfDNA therefore represents a rapid objective measure that may be useful during acute burn assessments to aid mortality predictions. Full article
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16 pages, 1638 KiB  
Article
Performance in Multi-Joint Force-Plate Assessments in Male and Female CrossFit® Athletes
by James R. Jowsey, G. Gregory Haff, Paul Comfort and Nicholas Joel Ripley
Biomechanics 2025, 5(2), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5020035 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background: CrossFit® aims to be equitable between both males and female athletes, supporting equal representation and equal prize money at international events. However, to date, limited information is known on CrossFit® athletes’ performance in the countermovement jump (CMJ), countermovement rebound jump [...] Read more.
Background: CrossFit® aims to be equitable between both males and female athletes, supporting equal representation and equal prize money at international events. However, to date, limited information is known on CrossFit® athletes’ performance in the countermovement jump (CMJ), countermovement rebound jump (CMR-J), and isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) when assessed using force plates, and if there are any differences between sexes. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to observe whether any sex-based differences and relationships exist between performance within these assessments. Methods: A total of CrossFit athletes (43 male = 32.8 ± 9.0 years; height 1.78 ± 0.06 m; mass = 92.4 ± 10.6 kg; and 31 female = 31.0 ± 7.6 years, height = 1.64 ± 0.05 m; mass = 68.8 ± 6.0 kg) completed three trials of CMJ, CMR-J and IMTP using portable dual-system force-plate sampling at 1000 Hz. Results: Moderate–large relationships were observed between CMJ, CMR-J and IMTP outcome measures (r = 0.396–0.809, p < 0.001). Males demonstrated small to moderately greater performance outcomes than females for CMJ height (males = 0.35 ± 0.08 m; females 0.30 ± 0.06 m, d = 0.73), CMR-J height (males = 0.32 ± 0.08 m; females = 0.30 ± 0.06 m, d = 0.39) and IMTP peak net force (males = 30.62 ± 10.01 N·kg−1; females = 27.49 ± 6.44 N·kg−1, d = 0.29). Conclusions: Maximal relative strength in CrossFit® athletes should be seen as imperative in both male and female athletes due to the meaningful relationship in ballistic and plyometric ability. Moreover, previous relationships with CrossFit® performance and the injury risk reduction benefits of improving strength provide further support. The descriptive data presented could be used by CrossFit® coaches to assess and compare the current performance of their own athletes in a battery of tests examining CMJ, CMR-J and IMTP, while also facilitating decisions upon prescription within training and competition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sports Biomechanics)
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25 pages, 3398 KiB  
Article
Adsorptive Removal of Reactive Black 5 by Longan Peel-Derived Activated Carbon: Kinetics, Isotherms, Thermodynamics, and Modeling
by Nguyen Thi Hong Hoa, Ngo Thi Quynh, Vinh Dinh Nguyen, Thi Nguyet Nguyen, Bui Quoc Huy, Nguyen Thi Thanh, Hoang Thi Loan, Nguyen Thi Quynh Hoa and Nguyen Trong Nghia
Water 2025, 17(11), 1678; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17111678 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
The present study deals with the fabrication of activated carbon from longan peels (LPAC) using a phosphoric acid (H3PO4) activation method and an evaluation of LPAC’s capability for the adsorption of Reactive Black 5 (RB5) dye from aqueous solutions. [...] Read more.
The present study deals with the fabrication of activated carbon from longan peels (LPAC) using a phosphoric acid (H3PO4) activation method and an evaluation of LPAC’s capability for the adsorption of Reactive Black 5 (RB5) dye from aqueous solutions. The synthesized LPAC was characterized using XRD, SEM, FT-IR, and EDX, confirming a porous, carbon-rich structure with the dominant elemental composition of carbon (85.21%) and oxygen (12.43%), and a surface area of 1202.38 m2/g. Batch adsorption experiments revealed that optimal performance was achieved at pH 3.0, with equilibrium reached after 240 min. The experimental data were well fitted to the Elovich model p, suggesting a heterogeneous adsorption process with diffusion limitations. The intraparticle diffusion model further supported a multi-stage mechanism involving both film diffusion and intraparticle transport. Isotherm studies conducted at varying temperatures (293–323 K) showed a maximum adsorption capacity exceeding 370 mg/g. The adsorption data fit best with the Freundlich (R2 = 0.962) and Temkin (R2 = 0.970) models, indicating multilayer adsorption on a heterogeneous surface. Thermodynamic analysis revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic, with ΔG° values ranging from −23.15 to −26.88 kJ/mol, ΔH° = 14.23 kJ/mol, and ΔS° = 0.127 kJ/mol×K, consistent with physisorption as the dominant mechanism. Predictive modeling using an artificial neural network (ANN) achieved superior accuracy (R2 = 0.989 for RRE; R2 = 0.991 for q) compared to multiple linear regression (MLR). Calculation from ANN indicated that pH and contact time were the most influential factors for RB5 removal efficiency, while initial dye concentration and temperature were most critical for adsorption capacity. Furthermore, LPAC demonstrated excellent reusability, retaining over 83% removal efficiency after five adsorption–desorption cycles. These findings confirm that LPAC is an efficient and renewable adsorbent for the treatment of RB5 dye in wastewater treatment applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
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20 pages, 7436 KiB  
Article
Portable Impedance Analyzer for FET-Based Biosensors with Embedded Analysis of Randles Circuits’ Spectra
by Norman Pfeiffer, Martin Bach, Alice Steiner, Anna-Elisabeth Gerhardt, Joan Bausells, Abdelhamid Errachid and Albert Heuberger
Sensors 2025, 25(11), 3497; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25113497 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2025
Abstract
The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a measurement method for characterizing bio-recognition events of a sensor, such as field-effect transistor-based biosensors (BioFETs). Due to the lack of portable impedance spectroscopes, EIS applies mainly in laboratories preventing application-oriented use in the field. This work [...] Read more.
The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a measurement method for characterizing bio-recognition events of a sensor, such as field-effect transistor-based biosensors (BioFETs). Due to the lack of portable impedance spectroscopes, EIS applies mainly in laboratories preventing application-oriented use in the field. This work presents a portable impedance analyzer (PIA) providing a 4-channel EIS of BioFETs. It performs the analysis of the recorded spectra by determining the charge transfer resistance Rct with a power-saving algorithm. Therefore, a circle is fitted into the Nyquist representation of the Randles circuit, from whose zero crossings Rct can be determined. The introduced algorithm was evaluated on 100 simulated spectra of Randles circuits. To analyze the overall system, an adjustable reference circuit was developed that simulates configurable Randles circuits. Additional measurements with pH-sensitive ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFETs) demonstrate the application of the measurement system with electrochemical sensors. Using simulated spectra, the circular fitting is able to detect Rct with a median accuracy of 1.2% at an average nominal power of 40 mW and 3054 µs computing time. The PIA with the embedded implementation of the circuit fitting achieves a median error for Rct of 4.2% using the introduced Randles circuit simulator (RCS). Measurements with ISFETs show deviations of 6.5 ± 2.8% compared to the complex non-linear least squares (CNLS), but is significantly faster and more efficient. The presented system allows a portable, power-saving performance of EIS. Future optimizations for a specific applications can improve the presented system and enable novel low-power and automated measurements of biosensors outside the laboratory. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)
16 pages, 3423 KiB  
Article
Lepidium virginicum Water-Soluble Chlorophyll-Binding Protein with Chlorophyll A as a Novel Contrast Agent for Photoacoustic Imaging
by Victor T. C. Tsang, Hannah H. Kim, Bingxin Huang, Simon C. K. Chan and Terence T. W. Wong
Sensors 2025, 25(11), 3492; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25113492 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2025
Abstract
Photoacoustic (PA) imaging (PAI) holds great promise for non-invasive biomedical diagnostics. However, the efficacy of current contrast agents is often limited by photobleaching, toxicity, and complex synthesis processes. In this study, we introduce a novel, biocompatible PAI contrast agent: a recombinant water-soluble chlorophyll-binding [...] Read more.
Photoacoustic (PA) imaging (PAI) holds great promise for non-invasive biomedical diagnostics. However, the efficacy of current contrast agents is often limited by photobleaching, toxicity, and complex synthesis processes. In this study, we introduce a novel, biocompatible PAI contrast agent: a recombinant water-soluble chlorophyll-binding protein (WSCP) from Lepidium virginicum (LvP) reconstituted with chlorophyll a (LvP-chla). LvP-chla exhibits a strong and narrow absorption peak at 665 nm, with a molar extinction coefficient substantially higher than oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin, enabling robust signal generation orthogonal to endogenous chromophores. Phantom studies confirmed a linear relationship between PA signal amplitude and LvP-chla concentration, demonstrating its stability and reliability. In vitro cytotoxicity testing using 4T1 cells showed high cell viability at 5 mg/mL, justifying its use for in vivo studies. In vivo experiments with a 4T1 tumor-bearing mouse model demonstrated successful tumor localization following intratumoral injection of LvP-chla, with clear visualization via spectroscopic differentiation from endogenous absorbers at 665 nm and 685 nm. Toxicity assessments, both in vitro and in vivo, revealed no adverse effects, and clearance studies confirmed minimal retention after 96 h. These findings show that LvP-chla is a promising contrast agent that enhances PAI capabilities through its straightforward synthesis, stability, and biocompatibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensing and Imaging)
15 pages, 4611 KiB  
Article
Remediating Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)-Contaminated Water by Foam Fractionation and Electrochemical Oxidation
by Steve Comfort, Amanda Araújo da Silva, Jessica Powell, Rebecca Cain, Ashleigh McGreer and Renato F. Dantas
Environments 2025, 12(6), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12060185 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2025
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a family of synthetic chemicals that were used to improve the quality of several commercial products by making them resistant to heat, oil, stains, and grease. By containing a fluorinated carbon tail and a hydrophilic head (-COOH, [...] Read more.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a family of synthetic chemicals that were used to improve the quality of several commercial products by making them resistant to heat, oil, stains, and grease. By containing a fluorinated carbon tail and a hydrophilic head (-COOH, -SO3H), PFASs act as surfactants that are attracted to bubble–water interfaces. Foam fractionation is the process of facilitating PFAS–air bubble interactions for the purpose of removing contaminants from tainted water. In this paper, we report on the use of foam fractionation and electrochemical oxidation (EO) under stirred batch conditions (200 mL) to remediate PFAS-contaminated water. We used radiolabeled PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid; 14C-PFOA) as a representative surrogate to quickly screen treatment variables of flow rate, pH, temperature, and soap mass. Using radiolabeled PFASs eliminated the possibility of cross-contamination and greatly reduced analytical costs and processing time. The results showed that foam fractionation can remove 80 to 90 percent of PFOA from water within 30 min and that 90 to 100 percent of the PFOA in the concentrated foamate can be oxidized via electrochemical oxidation (-14COOH → 14CO2). We also tested the efficacy of the combined foam fractionation–EO treatment in natural waters by spiking 14C-PFOA and a cosolvent (CTAB) into PFAS-contaminated water obtained from two field sites with divergent PFAS concentrations and differing sources of PFAS contamination (natural drainage ditch vs. WWTP). Using a larger-scale tank (3500 mL), we observed that foam fractionation was 90% effective in removing 14C-PFOA from the WWTP effluent but only 50% effective for the drainage ditch water. Regardless, EO was highly effective in oxidizing 14C-PFOA in the foamate from both sources with half-lives (T1/2) ranging from 8.7 to 15 min. While water chemistry differences between source waters may have influenced foam fractionation and require additional investigations, tank experiments provide the first proof-of-concept experiment using 14C-PFASs that foam fractionation and electrochemical oxidation can be used in tandem to treat PFAS-contaminated water. Full article
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