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14 pages, 522 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Advancing the Analysis of Extended Negative Dependence Random Variables: A New Concentration Inequality and Its Applications for Linear Models

by Zouaoui Chikr Elmezouar, Abderrahmane Belguerna, Hamza Daoudi, Fatimah Alshahrani and Zoubeyr Kaddour

Axioms 2024, 13(8), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms13080511 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

This paper introduces an innovative concentration inequality for Extended Negative Dependence (END) random variables, providing new insights into their almost complete convergence. We apply this inequality to analyze END variable sequences, particularly focusing on the first-order auto-regressive (AR(1)) model. This application highlights the [...] Read more.

This paper introduces an innovative concentration inequality for Extended Negative Dependence (END) random variables, providing new insights into their almost complete convergence. We apply this inequality to analyze END variable sequences, particularly focusing on the first-order auto-regressive (AR(1)) model. This application highlights the dynamics and convergence properties of END variables, expanding the analytical tools available for their study. Our findings contribute to both the theoretical understanding and practical applications of END variables in fields such as finance and machine learning, where understanding variable dependencies is crucial. Full article

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11 pages, 7295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Bone Tacks in Sinus Floor Lift Surgery: A Single-Center Experience

by Glauco Chisci, Luca Fredianelli, Maria Giulia Brunacci, Arjeta Hatia and Fabrizio Minichilli

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(15), 4429; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13154429 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Background: Maxillar atrophy is a prevalent condition associated with diminished bone volume, which precludes the conventional placement of dental implants. Sinus floor lift is a surgical procedure that aims to address this atrophy through the insertion of a graft within the sinus [...] Read more.

Background: Maxillar atrophy is a prevalent condition associated with diminished bone volume, which precludes the conventional placement of dental implants. Sinus floor lift is a surgical procedure that aims to address this atrophy through the insertion of a graft within the sinus cavity. A multitude of techniques have been documented in the international literature for the management of the sinus bone window, though each approach has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Methods: The present study is a retrospective analysis of traditional sinus floor lift surgery, comparing the outcomes of two surgical approaches: placement of a collagen membrane over the maxillary lateral bone window with or without bone tacks. The study enrolled a total of 48 consecutive patients. Twenty-four patients underwent sinus floor lift surgery, with the placement of a collagen membrane over the maxillary lateral bone window without bone tacks (control group). The remaining 24 patients underwent the same procedure, but with bone tacks (study group). All patients received an amoxicillin 875 mg + clavulanic acid 125 mg administration for six days and underwent Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) before the sinus floor lift surgery and six months later before the implant surgery. The parameters measured on the preoperative Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan included residual bone, the preoperative thickness of the lateral bone in the center, and the distance between the lateral wall and the medial wall of the sinus. Only the bone height increment was measured on the postoperative CBCT scan. Postoperative complications and the visual analogue scale (VAS) score were also recorded. A statistical analysis was performed, and the correlation between the parameters was evaluated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. A comparison of the mean of the parameters between the treatment group and the control group was conducted using the t-test. Results and Conclusions: The study group was found to have superior outcomes in terms of bone height increment (p = 0.001) and VAS after 7 days (p = 0.11) compared to the control group. The novel application of bone tacks on the collagen membrane over the bone window following sinus elevation surgery was associated with superior outcomes in terms of bone height and reduced pain at seven days, as measured by the VAS, with no postoperative complications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Challenges and Advances in Periodontology and Oral Surgery)

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13 pages, 1618 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Disparate Effects of Stressors on Met-Enkephalin System Parameters and on Plasma Concentrations of Corticosterone in Young Female Chickens

by Colin Guy Scanes and Krystyna Pierzchala-Koziec

Animals 2024, 14(15), 2201; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14152201 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

The effects of stressors were examined on Met-enkephalin-related parameters and plasma concentrations of corticosterone in 14-week-old female chickens. Water deprivation for 24 h was accompanied by a tendency for increased plasma concentration of Met-enkephalin while plasma concentrations of corticosterone were elevated in water-deprived [...] Read more.

The effects of stressors were examined on Met-enkephalin-related parameters and plasma concentrations of corticosterone in 14-week-old female chickens. Water deprivation for 24 h was accompanied by a tendency for increased plasma concentration of Met-enkephalin while plasma concentrations of corticosterone were elevated in water-deprived birds. Concentrations of Met-enkephalin were reduced in the anterior pituitary gland and adrenal gland in water-deprived pullets while proenkephalin (PENK) expression was increased in both tissues. There were changes in the plasma concentrations of Met-enkephalin and corticosterone in pullets subjected to either feed withholding or crowding. Concentrations of Met-enkephalin were increased in the anterior pituitary gland but decreased in adrenal glands in pullets subjected to crowding stress. The increase in the plasma concentrations of Met-enkephalin was ablated when the chickens were pretreated with naltrexone. However, naltrexone did not influence either basal or crowding on plasma concentrations of corticosterone. In vitro release of Met-enkephalin from the anterior pituitary or adrenal tissues was depressed in the presence of naltrexone. It was concluded that Met-enkephalin was part of the neuroendocrine response to stress in female chickens. It was concluded that stress influenced the release of both Met-enkephalin and corticosterone, but there was not complete parallelism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)

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15 pages, 3332 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation of Different Control Strategies of a Three-Phase Induction Motor Coupled to a Real Decanter Centrifuge for Olive Oil Extraction Focusing on Energy Saving

by Orkhan Mammadov, Giuseppe Altieri, Francesco Genovese, Sabina Laveglia, Attilio Matera, Mahdi Rashvand, Luciano Scarano and Giovanni Carlo Di Renzo

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(15), 6624; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14156624 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

This study presents the analysis and modeling of the optimal connection between an asynchronous three-phase electrical induction motor and a horizontal centrifuge used in olive oil extraction. The simulation, carried out using the well-established Simscape Electrical by Matlab R2024a, offers the advantage of [...] Read more.

This study presents the analysis and modeling of the optimal connection between an asynchronous three-phase electrical induction motor and a horizontal centrifuge used in olive oil extraction. The simulation, carried out using the well-established Simscape Electrical by Matlab R2024a, offers the advantage of reducing the purchasing cost of the electronic drivers and electric motors to be tested. Different connection cases among the electronic motor driver, the electric motor, and the horizontal centrifuge were examined. The findings indicate that the oversizing of the electric motor is required to increase the machine efficiency and to reduce the overall specific energy consumption; however, the asymptotic behavior of the specific energy consumption, being related to the motor power, places a limit on the motor oversizing. Indeed, raising the motor power reduces the specific energy consumption; however, this effect can be unimportant if considering the higher cost involved in purchasing both the electrical motor and the electronic motor driver. The results show that an overall percentage saving of specific energy consumption of 3.1% and 4.0% can be achieved with a slight (7.5 kW) and a medium (11 kW) oversizing of the electric motor, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Agri-Food Plants)

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16 pages, 1518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phylogenomic Analyses of Three Distinct Lineages Uniting Staphylococcus cohnii and Staphylococcus urealyticus from Diverse Hosts

by L. Caroline House, Amer Hasan, Andi Asnayanti, Adnan A. K. Alrubaye, Jeff Pummill and Douglas Rhoads

Microorganisms 2024, 12(8), 1549; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12081549 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

We sequenced and assembled genomes for 17 isolates of Staphylococcus cohnii isolated from osteomyelitis lesions in young broilers from two separate experiments where we induced lameness using a hybrid wire-litter flooring system. Whole genome comparisons using three different methods support a close relationship [...] Read more.

We sequenced and assembled genomes for 17 isolates of Staphylococcus cohnii isolated from osteomyelitis lesions in young broilers from two separate experiments where we induced lameness using a hybrid wire-litter flooring system. Whole genome comparisons using three different methods support a close relationship of genomes from both S. cohnii and Staphylococcus urealyticus. The data support three different lineages, which we designated as Lineage 1, Lineage 2, and Lineage 3, uniting these two species within an evolving complex. We present evidence for horizontal transfer between lineages of genomic regions from 50–440 kbp. The transfer of a 186 kbp region from Lineage 1 to Lineage 2 appears to have generated Lineage 3. Human-associated isolates appear to be limited to Lineages 2 and 3 but Lineage 2 appears to contain a higher number of human pathogenic isolates. The chicken isolates from our lameness trials included genomically diverse isolates from both Lineage 1 and 2, and isolates from both lineages were obtained from osteomyelitis lesions of individual birds. Our results expand the diversity of Staphylococci associated with osteomyelitis in poultry and suggest a high diversity in the microbiome of day-old chicks. Our data also support a reevaluation and unification of the taxonomic classifications of S. cohnii and S. urealyticus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinformatics and Omic Data Analysis in Microbial Research)

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13 pages, 526 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Artificial Intelligence Application in a Case of Mandibular Third Molar Impaction: A Systematic Review of the Literature

by Hassan Ahmed Assiri, Mohammad Shahul Hameed, Abdullah Alqarni, Ali Azhar Dawasaz, Saeed Abdullah Arem and Khalil Ibrahim Assiri

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(15), 4431; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13154431 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review aims to summarize the evidence on the use and applicability of AI in impacted mandibular third molars. Methods: Searches were performed in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The study protocol is registered at the International Platform [...] Read more.

Objective: This systematic review aims to summarize the evidence on the use and applicability of AI in impacted mandibular third molars. Methods: Searches were performed in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The study protocol is registered at the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY202460081). The retrieved articles were subjected to an exhaustive review based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study. Articles on the use of AI for diagnosis, treatment, and treatment planning in patients with impacted mandibular third molars were included. Results: Twenty-one articles were selected and evaluated using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) evidence quality scale. Most of the analyzed studies dealt with using AI to determine the relationship between the mandibular canal and the impacted mandibular third molar. The average quality of the articles included in this review was 2+, which indicated that the level of evidence, according to the SIGN protocol, was B. Conclusions: Compared to human observers, AI models have demonstrated decent performance in determining the morphology, anatomy, and relationship of the impaction with the inferior alveolar nerve canal. However, the prediction of eruptions and future horizons of AI models are still in the early developmental stages. Additional studies estimating the eruption in mixed and permanent dentition are warranted to establish a comprehensive model for identifying, diagnosing, and predicting third molar eruptions and determining the treatment outcomes in the case of impacted teeth. This will help clinicians make better decisions and achieve better treatment outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine)

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16 pages, 644 KiB

Open AccessReview

Investigating Menstruation and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: Oxymoron or New Frontier? A Narrative Review

by Kirstin Tindal, Fiona L. Cousins, Stacey J. Ellery, Kirsten R. Palmer, Adrienne Gordon, Caitlin E. Filby, Caroline E. Gargett, Beverley Vollenhoven and Miranda L. Davies-Tuck

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(15), 4430; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13154430 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Not discounting the important foetal or placental contribution, the endometrium is a key determinant of pregnancy outcomes. Given the inherently linked processes of menstruation, pregnancy and parturition with the endometrium, further understanding of menstruation will help to elucidate the maternal contribution to pregnancy. [...] Read more.

Not discounting the important foetal or placental contribution, the endometrium is a key determinant of pregnancy outcomes. Given the inherently linked processes of menstruation, pregnancy and parturition with the endometrium, further understanding of menstruation will help to elucidate the maternal contribution to pregnancy. Endometrial health can be assessed via menstrual history and menstrual fluid, a cyclically shed, easily and non-invasively accessible biological sample that represents the distinct, heterogeneous composition of the endometrial environment. Menstrual fluid has been applied to the study of endometriosis, unexplained infertility and early pregnancy loss; however, it is yet to be examined regarding adverse pregnancy outcomes. These adverse outcomes, including preeclampsia, foetal growth restriction (FGR), spontaneous preterm birth and perinatal death (stillbirth and neonatal death), lay on a spectrum of severity and are often attributed to placental dysfunction. The source of this placental dysfunction is largely unknown and may be due to underlying endometrial abnormalities or endometrial interactions during placentation. We present existing evidence for the endometrial contribution to adverse pregnancy outcomes and propose that a more comprehensive understanding of menstruation can provide insight into the endometrial environment, offering great potential value as a diagnostic tool to assess pregnancy risk. As yet, this concept has hardly been explored. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Risks and Perinatal Outcomes in Pregnancy and Childbirth)

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8 pages, 1971 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Persistently High Platelet Factor 4 Levels in an Adolescent with Recurrent Late Thrombotic Complications after SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccination

by Yoichi Haga, Akira Ohara, Tsuneyoshi Yakuwa, Akari Yamashita, Midori Udo, Masaki Matsuoka, Hiroshi Ohara, Atsushi Yasumoto and Hiroyuki Takahashi

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(3), 504-511; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16030048 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Thrombosis after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccination is a serious complication in patients with a thrombophilic predisposition. Herein, we present a 17-year-old female who had underlying antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and developed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) 6 months after her second BNT162b2 [...] Read more.

Thrombosis after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccination is a serious complication in patients with a thrombophilic predisposition. Herein, we present a 17-year-old female who had underlying antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and developed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) 6 months after her second BNT162b2 vaccine dose. Although she had no family history of thrombosis, she had previously developed DVT at 6 years of age, with thrombus formation in the right common iliac vein and the inferior vena cava, along with concomitant left pulmonary infarction. The patient had received anticoagulant therapy for 6 years after DVT onset, with subsequent treatment cessation for 5 years without recurrence. She received the BNT162b2 vaccine at 17 years of age, 1 week before a routine outpatient visit. Platelet factor 4 elevation was detected 14 days after the first vaccination, persisting for 5 months without thrombotic symptoms. Six months after the second vaccine dose, the DVT recurred and was treated with a direct oral anticoagulant. The vaccine was hypothesized to exacerbate the patient’s APS by activating coagulation. Platelet factor 4 levels may indicate coagulation status. When patients predisposed to thrombosis are vaccinated, coagulation status and platelet activation markers should be monitored to prevent DVT development. Full article

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17 pages, 6909 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality Assessment of Light Field Images Based on Adaptive Attention in ViT

by Yifan Du, Wei Lang, Xinwen Hu, Li Yu, Hua Zhang, Lingjun Zhang and Yifan Wu

Electronics 2024, 13(15), 2985; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13152985 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Light field images can record multiple information about the light rays in a scene and provide multiple views from a single image, offering a new data source for 3D reconstruction. However, ensuring the quality of light field images themselves is challenging, and distorted [...] Read more.

Light field images can record multiple information about the light rays in a scene and provide multiple views from a single image, offering a new data source for 3D reconstruction. However, ensuring the quality of light field images themselves is challenging, and distorted image inputs may lead to poor reconstruction results. Accurate light field image quality assessment can pre-judge the quality of light field images used as input for 3D reconstruction, providing a reference for the reconstruction results before the reconstruction work, significantly improving the efficiency of 3D reconstruction based on light field images. In this paper, we propose an Adaptive Vision Transformer-based light-field image-quality assessment model (AViT-LFIQA). The model adopts a multi-view sub-aperture image sequence input method, greatly reducing the number of input images while retaining as much information as possible from the original light field image, alleviating the training pressure on the neural network. Furthermore, we design an adaptive learnable attention layer based on ViT, which addresses the lack of inductive bias in ViT by using adaptive diagonal masking and a learnable temperature coefficient strategy, making the model more suitable for training on small datasets of light field images. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model is effective for various types of distortions and shows superior performance in light-field image-quality assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Three-Dimensional Machine Vision for Robots: Human Activity and Scene Understanding)

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17 pages, 11589 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Flow Structure Evolution during Scour Hole Development: A Case Study of a Pile-Supported Pier with Partially Buried Pile Cap

by Mahdi Alemi, João Pedro Pêgo, Saeid Okhravi and Rodrigo Maia

Modelling 2024, 5(3), 884-900; https://doi.org/10.3390/modelling5030046 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

This study numerically investigates a pile-supported pier, which comprises a column with a partially buried pile cap and a group of piles, recognizing that partially buried pile caps lead to the highest scour depth. Most research has focused on equilibrium scour conditions in [...] Read more.

This study numerically investigates a pile-supported pier, which comprises a column with a partially buried pile cap and a group of piles, recognizing that partially buried pile caps lead to the highest scour depth. Most research has focused on equilibrium scour conditions in laboratory settings, overlooking the detailed dynamics of horseshoe vortices around pile groups. This study aims to clarify the flow structure and vortex dynamics at a pile-supported pier during local scour hole development stages using an in-house developed numerical model. The model’s accuracy is validated against flat-channel and compound pier reference cases. For the pile-supported pier, fixed bed geometry was used in flow simulations at selected scouring stages. Results show significant changes in flow structure and vortex formation with scour hole time development, particularly as the bed surface moves away from the pile cap. The study reveals variations in vortex size, number, and positioning, alongside turbulent kinetic energy and Reynolds shear stress distributions over time. High positive Reynolds shear stress near the bed during intermediate scouring stages highlights the complex interactions within the flow field. This research provides the first detailed visualization of flow structure evolution within a scour hole at a pile-supported pier. Full article

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36 pages, 1090 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Green Tea Extract Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate on Oral Diseases: A Narrative Review

by Yizhen Li, Lei Cheng and Mingyun Li

Pathogens 2024, 13(8), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13080634 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Objectives: Oral diseases are among the most prevalent diseases globally. Accumulating new evidence suggests considerable benefits of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) for oral health. This review aims to explore the role and application of EGCG in main oral diseases. Methods: This narrative review thoroughly examines [...] Read more.

Objectives: Oral diseases are among the most prevalent diseases globally. Accumulating new evidence suggests considerable benefits of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) for oral health. This review aims to explore the role and application of EGCG in main oral diseases. Methods: This narrative review thoroughly examines and summarizes the most recent literature available in scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar) reporting advances in the role and application of EGCG within the dental field. The major keywords used included “EGCG”, “green tea extract”, “oral health”, “caries”, “pulpitis”, “periapical disease”, “periodontal disease”, “oral mucosa”, “salivary gland”, and “oral cancer”. Conclusions: EGCG prevents and manages various oral diseases through its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor properties. Compared to traditional treatments, EGCG generally exhibits lower tissue irritation and positive synergistic effects when combined with other therapies. Novel delivery systems or chemical modifications can significantly enhance EGCG’s bioavailability, prolong its action, and reduce toxicity, which are current hotspots in developing new materials. Clinical significance: this review provides an exhaustive overview of the biological activities of EGCG to major oral diseases, alongside an exploration of applications and limitations, which serves as a reference for preventing and managing oral ailments. Full article

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21 pages, 7874 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulations for the Mechanical Behavior of a Type-B Sleeve under Pipeline Suspension

by Haiping Tang, Yaping Ding, Guangyou Qiu, Ziguang Liu and Zhibin Deng

Processes 2024, 12(8), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12081585 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

The type-B sleeve is widely used for reinforcing defective pipelines. Due to the impact of suspension on pipeline safety, the behavior of the type-B sleeve structure has garnered increasing attention. In this study, we establish a numerical model of a defective pipeline reinforced [...] Read more.

The type-B sleeve is widely used for reinforcing defective pipelines. Due to the impact of suspension on pipeline safety, the behavior of the type-B sleeve structure has garnered increasing attention. In this study, we establish a numerical model of a defective pipeline reinforced with a type-B sleeve while accounting for the effects of the internal natural gas pressure and gravitational load. We investigate the influence of the sleeve length, suspended pipeline length, internal pressure, and sleeve position on the mechanical behavior of the type-B sleeve. The maximum values for Mises stress and axial strain were both observed near the edge of the suspended segment of the pipeline. For the type-B sleeve structure, the high Mises stress zone was at the bottom of the fillet weld; the axial strain near the fillet weld alternated between tension and compression along the axial direction. With an increase in internal pressure and suspended pipeline length, the Mises stress and axial strain of the type-B sleeve became more prominent. For sleeve length in the ranges of 1 to 3 m, the changes in the stress and strain did not exceed 10 MPa and 0.5 × 10⁻³, respectively. However, the Mises stress and axial strain on the type-B sleeve structure were independent of the position of the defect on the pipeline. This study provides an important reference for type-B sleeve protection during suspension and other similar practical engineering applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Simulation, Modeling, and Decision-Making Processes in Manufacturing Systems and Industrial Engineering)

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19 pages, 3090 KiB

Open AccessReview

Plant Extracts for Production of Functionalized Selenium Nanoparticles

by Krystyna Pyrzynska

Materials 2024, 17(15), 3748; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17153748 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

In recent years, selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have attracted expanding consideration, particularly in the nanotechnology field. This element participates in important biological processes, such as antioxidant defense, immune function, and thyroid hormone regulation, protecting cells from oxidative damage. Selenium in the form of nanoscale [...] Read more.

In recent years, selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have attracted expanding consideration, particularly in the nanotechnology field. This element participates in important biological processes, such as antioxidant defense, immune function, and thyroid hormone regulation, protecting cells from oxidative damage. Selenium in the form of nanoscale particles has drawn attention for its biocompatibility, bioavailability, and low toxicity; thus, it has found several biomedical applications in diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. Green methods for SeNP synthesis using plant extracts are considered to be single-step, inexpensive, and eco-friendly processes. Besides acting as natural reductants, compounds from plant extracts can also serve as natural capping agents, stabilizing the size of nanoparticles and contributing to the enhanced biological properties of SeNPs. This brief overview presents the recent developments in this area, focusing on the synthesis conditions and the characteristics of the obtained SeNPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Nanoparticle Materials: From Synthesis to Application)

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17 pages, 2432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

LncRNA PTENP1/miR-21/PTEN Axis Modulates EMT and Drug Resistance in Cancer: Dynamic Boolean Modeling for Cell Fates in DNA Damage Response

by Shantanu Gupta, Daner A. Silveira, Pedro R. Lorenzoni, Jose Carlos M. Mombach and Ronaldo F. Hashimoto

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(15), 8264; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25158264 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

It is well established that microRNA-21 (miR-21) targets phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), facilitating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and drug resistance in cancer. Recent evidence indicates that PTEN activates its pseudogene-derived long non-coding RNA, PTENP1, which in turn inhibits miR-21. However, the dynamics of [...] Read more.

It is well established that microRNA-21 (miR-21) targets phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), facilitating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and drug resistance in cancer. Recent evidence indicates that PTEN activates its pseudogene-derived long non-coding RNA, PTENP1, which in turn inhibits miR-21. However, the dynamics of PTEN, miR-21, and PTENP1 in the DNA damage response (DDR) remain unclear. Thus, we propose a dynamic Boolean network model by integrating the published literature from various cancers. Our model shows good agreement with the experimental findings from breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), elucidating how DDR activation transitions from the intra-S phase to the G2 checkpoint, leading to a cascade of cellular responses such as cell cycle arrest, senescence, autophagy, apoptosis, drug resistance, and EMT. Model validation underscores the roles of PTENP1, miR-21, and PTEN in modulating EMT and drug resistance. Furthermore, our analysis reveals nine novel feedback loops, eight positive and one negative, mediated by PTEN and implicated in DDR cell fate determination, including pathways related to drug resistance and EMT. Our work presents a comprehensive framework for investigating cellular responses following DDR, underscoring the therapeutic potential of targeting PTEN, miR-21, and PTENP1 in cancer treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Therapeutic Targets in Cancers: 3rd Edition)

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30 pages, 3301 KiB

Open AccessReview

GSK3-Driven Modulation of Inflammation and Tissue Integrity in the Animal Model

by Friederike Kühl, Korbinian Brand, Ralf Lichtinghagen and René Huber

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(15), 8263; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25158263 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Nowadays, GSK3 is accepted as an enzyme strongly involved in the regulation of inflammation by balancing the pro- and anti-inflammatory responses of cells and organisms, thus influencing the initiation, progression, and resolution of inflammatory processes at multiple levels. Disturbances within its broad functional [...] Read more.

Nowadays, GSK3 is accepted as an enzyme strongly involved in the regulation of inflammation by balancing the pro- and anti-inflammatory responses of cells and organisms, thus influencing the initiation, progression, and resolution of inflammatory processes at multiple levels. Disturbances within its broad functional scope, either intrinsically or extrinsically induced, harbor the risk of profound disruptions to the regular course of the immune response, including the formation of severe inflammation-related diseases. Therefore, this review aims at summarizing and contextualizing the current knowledge derived from animal models to further shape our understanding of GSK3α and β and their roles in the inflammatory process and the occurrence of tissue/organ damage. Following a short recapitulation of structure, function, and regulation of GSK3, we will focus on the lessons learned from GSK3α/β knock-out and knock-in/overexpression models, both conventional and conditional, as well as a variety of (predominantly rodent) disease models reflecting defined pathologic conditions with a significant proportion of inflammation and inflammation-related tissue injury. In summary, the literature suggests that GSK3 acts as a crucial switch driving pro-inflammatory and destructive processes and thus contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of inflammation-associated diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue GSK3 as a Master Regulator of Cellular Processes, 2nd Edition)

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31 pages, 2749 KiB

Open AccessReview

Tolerance Mechanisms of Olive Tree (Olea europaea) under Saline Conditions

by Mohamed El Yamani and María del Pilar Cordovilla

Plants 2024, 13(15), 2094; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13152094 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) is an evergreen tree that occupies 19% of the woody crop area and is cultivated in 67 countries on five continents. The largest olive production region is concentrated in the Mediterranean basin, where the olive tree [...] Read more.

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) is an evergreen tree that occupies 19% of the woody crop area and is cultivated in 67 countries on five continents. The largest olive production region is concentrated in the Mediterranean basin, where the olive tree has had an enormous economic, cultural, and environmental impact since the 7th century BC. In the Mediterranean region, salinity stands out as one of the main abiotic stress factors significantly affecting agricultural production. Moreover, climate change is expected to lead to increased salinization in this region, threatening olive productivity. Salt stress causes combined damage by osmotic stress and ionic toxicity, restricting olive growth and interfering with multiple metabolic processes. A large variability in salinity tolerance among olive cultivars has been described. This paper aims to synthesize information from the published literature on olive adaptations to salt stress and its importance in salinity tolerance. The morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of olive tolerance to salt stress are reviewed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Environment Interactions: Responses to Climate Change and Global Challenges)

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14 pages, 2156 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Karrikinolide1 (KAR₁), a Bioactive Compound from Smoke, Improves the Germination of Morphologically Dormant Apium graveolens L. Seeds by Reducing Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA) Levels

by Shubhpriya Gupta, Jakub Hrdlička, Manoj Kulkarni, Ivana Doležalova, Aleš Pěnčík, Johannes Van Staden, Ondřej Novák and Karel Doležal

Plants 2024, 13(15), 2096; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13152096 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Smoke-water (SW) and Karrikinolide1 (KAR₁) release dormancy and improve seed germination in many plant species. Therefore, we tested SW (1:2500 v/v) and KAR₁ (10⁻⁷ M) to break the morphological dormancy of celery cultivar (Apium graveolens [...] Read more.

Smoke-water (SW) and Karrikinolide1 (KAR₁) release dormancy and improve seed germination in many plant species. Therefore, we tested SW (1:2500 v/v) and KAR₁ (10⁻⁷ M) to break the morphological dormancy of celery cultivar (Apium graveolens L.). In the first trial, seeds were subjected to a 21-day incubation period at 20 °C with SW and KAR₁ applied as single treatments. KAR₁ showed significantly improved germination (30.7%) as compared to SW (17.2%) and a water control (14.7%). In seed soaking experiments, SW, KAR₁, and gibberellic acid (GA₃) treatments showed higher germination percentages than the water control after 3 and 6 h of soaking. However, prolonged soaking (12 h) reduced germination percentages for all treatments, indicating a detrimental effect. Analysis of KAR₁ content dynamics in 7-day- and 21-day-old celery seeds indicated its prolonged effects on germination and dormancy alleviation. Phytohormones, including auxins in 7-day-old and cytokinins in 7-day- and 21-day-old celery seedlings, along with their precursors and metabolites, were analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) after treatment with KAR₁ and SW. The analysis of auxin levels in 7-day-old seeds revealed a negative correlation between seed germination and auxin (indole-3-acetic acid, IAA) content. Notably, it was found that KAR₁-treated seeds significantly reduced IAA levels in all treatments. SW and KAR₁ did not significantly affect cytokinin levels during celery germination except for N6-Isopentenyladenine. Hence, further research is needed to understand their precise role in celery seed germination. This work will improve our understanding of the role of bioactive compounds from plant-derived smoke and how they regulate hormonal responses and improve germination efficiency in celery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Factors/Compounds and Hormones in Regulation of Seed Dormancy and Germination)

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22 pages, 5463 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Newly Developed Semi-Solid Formulations Containing Mellilotus officinalis Extract: Characterization, Assessment of Stability, Safety, and Anti-Inflammatory Activity

by Jovana Bradic, Anica Petrovic, Milos Nikolic, Nikola Nedeljkovic, Marijana Andjic, Nebojsa Kladar, Stefani Bolevich, Vladimir Jakovljevic and Aleksandar Kocovic

Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(8), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16081003 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Melilotus officinalis has been traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory agent; nevertheless, a comprehensive evaluation of its efficacy and safety and comparison with standard drugs are lacking. Taking into consideration concerns with current therapies, like efficacy limitations, side effects, and resistance, we aimed to [...] Read more.

Melilotus officinalis has been traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory agent; nevertheless, a comprehensive evaluation of its efficacy and safety and comparison with standard drugs are lacking. Taking into consideration concerns with current therapies, like efficacy limitations, side effects, and resistance, we aimed to develop a natural gel and cream based on Melilotus officinalis extract and explore their anti-inflammatory potential. After the chemical analysis of the extract confirmed the presence of coumarin, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, and quercetin, formulations were prepared and subjected to physical and chemical stability evaluations over 6 months. The safety potential was tested in rats, while the anti-inflammatory activity was assessed both via in silico tests and in a rat model of inflammation. The examined formulations showed stable physical characteristics at the defined storage conditions and did not exert any sign of adverse skin reaction. The gel formulation exhibited a remarkable effect in inflammation reduction comparable with hydrocortisone. The in silico results suggest that coumarin, p-coumaric, and gallic acid bind to COX-1 and COX-2 with a lower affinity compared to diclofenac. On the other hand, quercetin demonstrated comparable inhibitory activity and stronger interaction compared to the control drug. Our results indicate that the examined formulations are stable and safe and may be promising dermal products for the alleviation of inflammatory skin conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmaceuticals Focused on Anti-inflammatory Activities)

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21 pages, 2550 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Off-Label Use of Bevacizumab in Patients Diagnosed with Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by João Estarreja, Priscila Mendes, Carina Silva, Pedro Camacho and Vanessa Mateus

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(8), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17081000 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Background: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in elderly people. Current pharmacological treatment in vascular AMD includes anti-VEGF agents, such as ranibizumab and aflibercept. Additionally, the off-label use of bevacizumab has been shown to be effective and has [...] Read more.

Background: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in elderly people. Current pharmacological treatment in vascular AMD includes anti-VEGF agents, such as ranibizumab and aflibercept. Additionally, the off-label use of bevacizumab has been shown to be effective and has a lower cost, making it an interesting pharmacological approach; however, there is no consensus about its use. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and efficiency of bevacizumab in AMD patients. Methods: This review only focused on randomized controlled clinical trials published in 2010 in the MEDLINE database that compared the effect of bevacizumab with ranibizumab. The risk of bias in each included study was assessed using the CASP Randomised Clinical Trials checklist. Results: Twelve studies were included for qualitative synthesis, and nine of them were considered for meta-analysis. Bevacizumab-treated patients showed a significantly reduced neovascularization in a longer spectrum of time; however, they had a higher incidence of endophthalmitis than those treated with ranibizumab. Regarding efficiency, the mean number of administrations was reduced in the treatment with bevacizumab in comparison to ranibizumab. Conclusions: Clinical evidence demonstrates that bevacizumab has efficacy and safety profiles comparable with ranibizumab; however, it is relatively more efficient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)

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13 pages, 1162 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Prevalence of Functional Gastrointestinal Diseases and the Accompanied Differences in Dietary and Lifestyle Patterns: A Two-Generational Study

by Elham A. Aljaaly and Mai A. Khatib

Diagnostics 2024, 14(15), 1630; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14151630 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Generation Z and millennials in Saudi Arabia both experienced the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying factors that may have had an impact on the incidence of functional gastrointestinal diseases (FGIDs) in both generations. This study aims to [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Generation Z and millennials in Saudi Arabia both experienced the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying factors that may have had an impact on the incidence of functional gastrointestinal diseases (FGIDs) in both generations. This study aims to explore how prevalent FGIDs are among adolescents and their parents. Methods and Study Design: A cross-sectional, school-based study conducted in public high schools for boys and girls in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. We adapted 37 items from the ROME IV Diagnostic Questionnaires for children and adults, as well as other questionnaires. IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 28.0) was used. Results: Generation Z showed a higher prevalence of FGIDs (33.5%, n = 126) in comparison with millennials (20.0%, n = 28). In both generations, the most prevalent FGID was functional constipation; the least prevalent were irritable bowel syndrome and abdominal migraine, with no significant change in the severity or frequency of symptoms during the pandemic. The type of commonly consumed beverages was a risk factor for FGIDs. Participants in generation Z were less likely to use complementary and alternative medicine (67.4%) to prevent diseases and enhance immunity compared with millennials (82.9%). Conclusions: The study results confirmed disparities in the prevalence of FGIDs between the two generations before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, which requires further research in other areas of Saudi Arabia. Recognizing the differences between the millennial parents and the generation Z high schoolers could assist health professionals in planning individualized, generation-based interventions and educators in designing and tailoring programs based on generational differences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs): Diagnosis and Pathophysiology, Second Edition)

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22 pages, 1624 KiB

Open AccessReview

Integrating Rural Development, Education, and Management: Challenges and Strategies

by Yang Yu, Desmond Appiah, Bernard Zulu and Kofi Asamoah Adu-Poku

Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6474; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156474 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

This review explores the complexities of integrated rural development, education, and management, focusing on the challenges encountered and the strategies employed to address them. Integrating various sectors and disciplines in rural development initiatives presents unique obstacles, including coordination issues, resource constraints, and stakeholder [...] Read more.

This review explores the complexities of integrated rural development, education, and management, focusing on the challenges encountered and the strategies employed to address them. Integrating various sectors and disciplines in rural development initiatives presents unique obstacles, including coordination issues, resource constraints, and stakeholder engagement difficulties. By examining the existing literature and case studies, this review identifies key challenges, such as limited institutional capacity, inadequate funding, and the need for multidisciplinary collaboration. Furthermore, it analyzes strategies such as community involvement, capacity building, and innovative technology adoption to overcome these obstacles. The review emphasizes the importance of tailored approaches considering local contexts and empowering rural communities in decision-making processes. This approach is essential for the sustainability of rural areas because it ensures that interventions are context-specific, culturally appropriate, and resource-efficient, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes. By understanding and addressing the challenges while implementing effective strategies, integrated rural development, education, and management can lead to sustainable and inclusive development outcomes in rural areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Education for Sustainable Development and Science Teaching)

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10 pages, 4444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

NiFeP Microsphere Electrocatalyst for High-Efficiency Electrolysis of Water

by Ding Li and Xiang Wu

Catalysts 2024, 14(8), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14080485 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Electrochemical water splitting is a viable solution for producing clean energy sources. However, the sluggish reaction kinetics and high overpotential restrict their further application in large-scale hydrogen generation. In this work, we prepared NiFeP catalysts by a hydrothermal reaction and phosphorization treatment and [...] Read more.

Electrochemical water splitting is a viable solution for producing clean energy sources. However, the sluggish reaction kinetics and high overpotential restrict their further application in large-scale hydrogen generation. In this work, we prepared NiFeP catalysts by a hydrothermal reaction and phosphorization treatment and studied the effect of the reaction temperature on the morphology and properties of the samples. The prepared NiFeP-140 samples possess a specific surface area of 25.13 m²g⁻¹, which provides many active sites for the electrochemical reaction. They show an overpotential of 93 mV at 10 mA cm⁻² for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and 233 mV @ 50 mA cm⁻² for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Also, the samples show Tafel slopes of 79.24 mV dec⁻¹ (HER) and 80.73 mV dec⁻¹ (OER). This facile strategy can be extended to prepare other transition-metal electrocatalysts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Catalytic Materials)

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16 pages, 1392 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantification of the Environmental Impact of Feeding Yeast Probiotic Saccharomyces cerevisiae Actisaf Sc 47 in Dairy Cow: A Life Cycle Assessment Approach

by Nizar Salah, Héloïse Legendre, Erika Paiva, Julie Duclos, Maxime Briche, Mariem Maaoui, Jasper Scholten and Céline Garat Boute

Animals 2024, 14(15), 2202; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14152202 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

Today, one of the major challenges of dairy farmers is to reduce their environmental footprint to establish more effective, efficient, and sustainable production systems. Feed additives such as yeast probiotics could potentially allow them to achieve these objectives through the improvement of milk [...] Read more.

Today, one of the major challenges of dairy farmers is to reduce their environmental footprint to establish more effective, efficient, and sustainable production systems. Feed additives such as yeast probiotics could potentially allow them to achieve these objectives through the improvement of milk production, feed efficiency, and ration valorization, hence mitigating the environmental impacts of milk production. In this study, the life cycle assessment (LCA) principle was performed to estimate the environmental impact of the production and supplementation of a commercial yeast probiotic (Actisaf Sc 47) in three trials performed in three different countries that are representative for around 50% of the milk production in Europe: France (French trial), United Kingdom (UK trial), and Germany (German trial). For each trial, two groups of animals were compared: control, without Actisaf Sc 47 supplementation, used as baseline; and experimental, with Actisaf Sc 47 supplementation at 5 or 10 g/cow/day. Different impact categories were analyzed for each group to calculate the impact of producing 1 kg of fat- and protein-corrected milk. An initial analysis was done only during the period of Actisaf Sc 47 supplementation and showed than the supplementation with Actisaf Sc 47 reduced, on average by 5%, the carbon footprint during the three trials. A second analysis was done via the extrapolation of all the data of each trial to an annual farm level, including the lactation period (305 days), dry period (60 days), and the period with and without Actisaf Sc 47 supplementation. Reported at a farm annual scale, the average reduction allowed by Actisaf Sc 47 supplementation was 2.9, 2.05, 2.47, 1.67, 2.28, 2.18, 2.14, and 2.28% of the carbon footprint, land use, water use, resource use, acidification, freshwater eutrophication, marine eutrophication, and terrestrial eutrophication, respectively. On average, the production of 1 kg of fat- and protein-corrected milk by using Actisaf Sc 47 was shown to improve environmental impacts compared to control. Regarding Actisaf Sc 47 production, the LCA showed that the production of 1 kg of Actisaf Sc 47 emitted 2.1 kg CO₂ eq with a negligible contribution to total the carbon footprint of milk ranging from 0.005 to 0.016%. The use of Actisaf Sc 47 in dairy cows could then result in different positive outcomes: improving performance and efficiency while reducing the global carbon footprint. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adapting Novel Nutritional Practices to Enhance Product Quality and Environmental Sustainability in Ruminant Livestock Sector)

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