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13 pages, 1722 KiB  
Article
Acute Effect of Passive Hyperthermia on Lactate Concentrations
by Jesús Siquier-Coll, Juan Manuel Flores, Francisco Javier Grijota, Ignacio Bartolomé, Marcos Maynar-Mari?o and Víctor Toro-Román
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2895; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072895 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Knowledge on the effect of heat on recovery is still incomplete. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a passive acute hyperthermic stimulus before and after a lactic anaerobic test on the production and oxidation of lactate blood concentrations. In [...] Read more.
Background: Knowledge on the effect of heat on recovery is still incomplete. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a passive acute hyperthermic stimulus before and after a lactic anaerobic test on the production and oxidation of lactate blood concentrations. In addition, the purpose was to evaluate the effect that the application of this previous hyperthermic stimulus may have on the athletic performance in the test. Methods: For this purpose, a cross-over design through an anaerobic treadmill test in three different situations (normothermia, pre-test hyperthermia, and post-test hyperthermia) was performed. Twelve male subjects participated (age: 21.25 ± 1.64 years; height: 1.76 m ± 0.08; weight: 72.59 ± 9.44 kg). An anthropometric assessment was carried out with weight, height, skinfolds, body perimeters and diameters, and external and internal body temperatures in each of the tests. A nutritional survey was also carried out 48 h prior to each test. Results: The results of the study showed a decrease in blood lactate concentrations when the hyperthermic effect was applied as passive recovery just after the end of the test (p < 0.05). A decrease in lactate concentrations was also achieved when applying the hyperthermic effect just before the start of the test (p < 0.05). However, no significant improvements were obtained from this application of heat on test performance. Conclusions: The results suggest that the application of passive acute hyperthermia has a favourable effect in terms of decreasing blood lactate concentrations in a 5 min recovery period after lactic anaerobic activity. Full article
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9 pages, 541 KiB  
Article
Pediatric Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: Degree of Nystagmus and Concurrent Dizziness Differs from Adult BPPV
by Jun Beom An, Jisu Kim, Seok Hyun Park, Joonsung Yoon, Oak Sung Choo, Su-Kyoung Park and Jiwon Chang
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1997; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071997 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is characterized by brief, intense episodes of vertigo triggered by abrupt changes in head position. It is generally accepted as being most common in adults, while it is regarded as rare in children. It is necessary [...] Read more.
Background: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is characterized by brief, intense episodes of vertigo triggered by abrupt changes in head position. It is generally accepted as being most common in adults, while it is regarded as rare in children. It is necessary to compare the disease between pediatric and adult patients for a better understanding of the disease’s characteristics and its natural history. This study aimed to identify the clinical characteristics of BPPV in children and compare them with those of adult BPPV patients. Methods: All children ≤ 18 years old who were diagnosed with BPPV were selected by searching the electronic database of our hospital. Clinical features were identified by medical record review. For adult patients, we collected data from patients > 19 years of age. Results: A total of 30 pediatric (13.65 ± 4.15 years old) and 264 adult patients (60.86 ± 13.74 years old) were included in the study. Among pediatric patients, the lateral canals were involved in 80% and the posterior canals in 16.67%. In adult patients, the lateral and posterior canals were involved similarly (p = 0.007). The degree of nystagmus in pediatric patients was 6.82 ± 12.09, while in adults it was 15.58 ± 20.90 (p < 0.001). The concurrent dizziness disorder was higher in the pediatric group and recurrence was higher in the adult group. In the regression analysis, it was found that adult patients had a stronger nystagmus with a value of 6.206 deg/sec, and the risk of concurrent dizziness disorder was found to be 5.413 times higher in the pediatric group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: BPPV occurs in pediatric patients with lower prevalence, but it cannot be overlooked. In the pediatric group, a relatively high proportion of patients demonstrated lateral canal involvement, weaker nystagmus, and additional dizziness disorder. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Insights into Vestibular Disorders)
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19 pages, 759 KiB  
Article
Factors Impacting Women Gaining Leadership Roles in the Jordanian Construction Sector: Architects and Civil Engineers
by Ala’a Saleh Alshdiefat, Ahlam Ammar Sharif, Noor-Alhuda Mohammad Abu Ghunmi, Angela Lee and Muhammad Qasim Rana
Buildings 2024, 14(4), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14040944 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership positions within the construction industry remains a global concern. In Jordan, despite comprising 60.45% and 22.4% of the total workforce of architects and civil engineers, respectively, women’s contribution to management roles is significantly low. Therefore, there [...] Read more.
The persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership positions within the construction industry remains a global concern. In Jordan, despite comprising 60.45% and 22.4% of the total workforce of architects and civil engineers, respectively, women’s contribution to management roles is significantly low. Therefore, there is an urgent necessity to examine the factors hindering women’s advancement in the construction sector and their ability to attain leadership positions. This research aims to provide an overview of the current situation in Jordan, focusing specifically on the architectural and civil engineering professions. It presents findings from a desktop study, a survey questionnaire, and focus groups. The Severity Index (SI) formula is utilised to identify critical barriers in the Jordanian context, derived from both the literature review and questionnaire responses. Additionally, the Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) technique is employed to establish a hierarchy of critical barriers and analyse their interrelationships. The study reveals that the obstacles impeding women from assuming leadership roles in the Jordanian construction sector primarily stem from 20 critical barriers categorised across 11 levels in ISM. Notably, the lack of childcare programmes is identified as a fundamental barrier at the lower level, while informal networks formed by men emerge as the highest-rated barrier at level 11. Addressing and mitigating these challenges is crucial to facilitating women’s progression into leadership positions within the sector and is anticipated to contribute significantly to addressing the growing complexity of modern construction projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
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21 pages, 15115 KiB  
Article
Leaf Traits Explain the Growth Variation and Nitrogen Response of Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis and Dalbergia odorifera in Mixed Culture
by Han Zhang, Yahui Lan, Chenyang Jiang, Yuhong Cui, Yaqin He, Jiazhen Deng, Mingye Lin and Shaoming Ye
Plants 2024, 13(7), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13070988 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Mixed cultivation with legumes may alleviate the nitrogen (N) limitation of monoculture Eucalyptus. However, how leaf functional traits respond to N in mixed cultivation with legumes and how they affect tree growth are unclear. Thus, this study investigated the response of leaf [...] Read more.
Mixed cultivation with legumes may alleviate the nitrogen (N) limitation of monoculture Eucalyptus. However, how leaf functional traits respond to N in mixed cultivation with legumes and how they affect tree growth are unclear. Thus, this study investigated the response of leaf functional traits of Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis (E. urophylla × E. grandis) and Dalbergia odorifera (D. odorifera) to mixed culture and N application, as well as the regulatory pathways of key traits on seedling growth. In this study, a pot-controlled experiment was set up, and seedling growth indicators, leaf physiology, morphological parameters, and N content were collected and analyzed after 180 days of N application treatment. The results indicated that mixed culture improved the N absorption and photosynthetic rate of E. urophylla × E. grandis, further promoting seedling growth but inhibiting the photosynthetic process of D. odorifera, reducing its growth and biomass. Redundancy analysis and path analysis revealed that leaf nitrogen content, pigment content, and photosynthesis-related physiological indicators were the traits most directly related to seedling growth and biomass accumulation, with the net photosynthetic rate explaining 50.9% and 55.8% of the variation in growth indicators for E. urophylla × E. grandis and D. odorifera, respectively. Additionally, leaf morphological traits are related to the trade-off strategy exhibited by E. urophylla × E. grandis and D. odorifera based on N competition. This study demonstrated that physiological traits related to photosynthesis are reliable predictors of N nutrition and tree growth in mixed stands, while leaf morphological traits reflect the resource trade-off strategies of different tree species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology and Metabolism)
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20 pages, 810 KiB  
Article
Energy Efficient Wireless Signal Detection: A Revisit through the Lens of Approximate Computing
by Abhinav Kulkarni, Messaoud Ahmed Ouameur and Daniel Massicotte
Electronics 2024, 13(7), 1274; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13071274 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In the pursuit of energy efficiency in next-generation communication systems, approximate computing is emerging as a promising technique. In the proposed work, efforts are made to address the challenge of bridging the gap between the level of approximation and the Quality-of-Service (QoS) of [...] Read more.
In the pursuit of energy efficiency in next-generation communication systems, approximate computing is emerging as a promising technique. In the proposed work, efforts are made to address the challenge of bridging the gap between the level of approximation and the Quality-of-Service (QoS) of the system. The application of approximate multiplication to wireless signal detection is explored systematically, illustrated by employing Truncated Multiplication (TM) on Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK) Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE) detection. The irregularities induced by approximation in the multiplication operation employed in wireless signal detection are captured by the Approximate Multiplication Noise (AMN) model, which aids in the analysis of signal fidelity and resiliency of the system. The energy efficiency gains through approximation are highlighted in the approximation analysis. Signal fidelity analysis provides the capability to predict system output for varying levels of approximation, which aids in improving the stability of the system. The higher approximation levels are advantageous in low Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) regimes, whereas lower approximation levels prove beneficial in high SNR regimes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Future Wireless Networks)
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18 pages, 1077 KiB  
Review
The Role of Epigenetic Factors in the Pathogenesis of Psoriasis
by Joanna Olejnik-Wojciechowska, Dominika Boboryko, Aleksandra Wiktoria Bratborska, Klaudia Rusińska, Piotr Ostrowski, Magdalena Baranowska and Andrzej Pawlik
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3831; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073831 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, the prevalence of which is increasing. Genetic, genomic, and epigenetic changes play a significant role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. This review summarizes the impact of epigenetics on the development of psoriasis and highlights challenges for [...] Read more.
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, the prevalence of which is increasing. Genetic, genomic, and epigenetic changes play a significant role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. This review summarizes the impact of epigenetics on the development of psoriasis and highlights challenges for the future. The development of epigenetics provides a basis for the search for genetic markers associated with the major histocompatibility complex. Genome-wide association studies have made it possible to link psoriasis to genes and therefore to epigenetics. The acquired knowledge may in the future serve as a solid foundation for developing newer, increasingly effective methods of treating psoriasis. In this narrative review, we discuss the role of epigenetic factors in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms of Treating Psoriasis)
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18 pages, 1677 KiB  
Article
USP7 Deregulation Impairs S Phase Specific DNA Repair after Irradiation in Breast Cancer Cells
by Marie Vogt, Sandra Classen, Ann Kristin Krause, Nadja-Juanita Peter, Cordula Petersen, Kai Rothkamm, Kerstin Borgmann and Felix Meyer
Biomedicines 2024, 12(4), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12040762 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The ubiquitin specific protease 7 (USP7) is a deubiquitinating enzyme with numerous substrates. Aberrant expression of USP7 is associated with tumor progression. This study aims to investigate how a deregulated USP7 expression affects chromosomal instability and prognosis of breast cancer patients in silico [...] Read more.
The ubiquitin specific protease 7 (USP7) is a deubiquitinating enzyme with numerous substrates. Aberrant expression of USP7 is associated with tumor progression. This study aims to investigate how a deregulated USP7 expression affects chromosomal instability and prognosis of breast cancer patients in silico and radiosensitivity and DNA repair in breast cancer cells in vitro. The investigations in silico were performed using overall survival and USP7 mRNA expression data of breast cancer patients. The results showed that a high USP7 expression was associated with increased chromosomal instability and decreased overall survival. The in vitro experiments were performed in a luminal and a triple-negative breast cancer cell line. Proliferation, DNA repair, DNA replication stress, and survival after USP7 overexpression or inhibition and irradiation were analyzed. Both, USP7 inhibition and overexpression resulted in decreased cellular survival, distinct radiosensitization and an increased number of residual DNA double-strand breaks in the S phase following irradiation. RAD51 recruitment and base incorporation were decreased after USP7 inhibition plus irradiation and more single-stranded DNA was detected. The results show that deregulation of USP7 activity disrupts DNA repair in the S phase by increasing DNA replication stress and presents USP7 as a promising target to overcome the radioresistance of breast tumors. Full article
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23 pages, 1074 KiB  
Article
Bioaccessibility of Phenolic Compounds, Resistant Starch, and Dietary Fibers from Australian Green Banana during In Vitro Digestion and Colonic Fermentation
by Yasmeen M. Bashmil, Frank R. Dunshea, Rudi Appels and Hafiz A. R. Suleria
Molecules 2024, 29(7), 1535; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29071535 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Green bananas contain a substantial amount of resistant starch (RS), dietary fiber (DF), and phytochemicals, which exhibit potent antioxidant capabilities, primarily attributable to the abundance of polyphenols. The objective of this study was to assess the variations in the contents and bioaccessibility of [...] Read more.
Green bananas contain a substantial amount of resistant starch (RS), dietary fiber (DF), and phytochemicals, which exhibit potent antioxidant capabilities, primarily attributable to the abundance of polyphenols. The objective of this study was to assess the variations in the contents and bioaccessibility of RS, DF, and phenolic compounds in three types of Australian green bananas (Cavendish “Musa acuminata”, Ladyfinger “Musa paradisiaca L.”, and Ducasse “Musa balbisiana”), along with their antioxidant capacities, and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) following in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion and colonic fermentation. The studied cultivars exhibited significant levels of RS, with Ladyfinger showing the greatest (49%). However, Ducasse bananas had the greatest DF concentration (38.73%). Greater TPC levels for Ladyfinger (2.32 mg GAE/g), as well as TFC and TTC (0.06 mg QE/g and 3.2 mg CE/g, respectively) in Cavendish, together with strong antioxidant capacities (DPPH, 0.89 mg TE/g in Cavendish), have been detected after both intestinal phase and colonic fermentation at 12 and 24 h. The bioaccessibility of most phenolic compounds from bananas was high after gastric and small intestinal digestion. Nevertheless, a significant proportion of kaempferol (31% in Cavendish) remained detectable in the residue after colonic fermentation. The greatest production of SCFAs in all banana cultivars was observed after 24 h of fermentation, except valeric acid, which exhibited the greatest output after 12 h of fermentation. In conclusion, the consumption of whole green bananas may have an advantageous effect on bowel health and offer antioxidant characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Foods and Dietary Bioactives in Human Health)
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18 pages, 2251 KiB  
Article
Changes in Endogenous Essential Metal Homeostasis in the Liver and Kidneys during a Six-Month Follow-Up Period after Subchronic Cadmium Exposure
by Rafa? Kusak, Marzenna Nasiadek, Joanna Stragierowicz, Wojciech Hanke and Anna Kilanowicz
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3829; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073829 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most dangerous environmental pollutants. Its mechanism of action is multidirectional; among other things, it disrupts the balance of key essential elements. The aim of this study was to assess how cumulative exposure to Cd influences its interaction [...] Read more.
Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most dangerous environmental pollutants. Its mechanism of action is multidirectional; among other things, it disrupts the balance of key essential elements. The aim of this study was to assess how cumulative exposure to Cd influences its interaction with selected essential elements (Cu, Zn, Ca, and Mg) in the kidney and liver during long-term observation (90 and 180 days) after subchronic exposure of rats (90 days) to Cd at common environmental (0.09 and 0.9 mg Cd/kg b.w.) and higher (1.8 and 4.5 mg Cd/kg b.w.) doses. Cd and essential elements were analyzed using the F-AAS and GF-AAS techniques. It was shown that the highest bioaccumulation of Cd in the kidney occurred six months after the end of exposure, and importantly, the highest accumulation was found after the lowest Cd dose (i.e., environmental exposure). Organ bioaccumulation of Cd (>21 μgCd/g w.w. in the kidney and >6 μgCd/g w.w. in the liver) was accompanied by changes in the other studied essential elements, particularly Cu in both the kidney and liver and Zn in the liver; these persisted for as long as six months after the end of the exposure. The results suggest that the critical concentration in human kidneys (40 μgCd/g w.w.), currently considered safe, may be too high and should be reviewed, as the observed long-term imbalance of Cu/Zn in the kidneys may lead to renal dysfunction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Toxicity Mechanism of Cadmium on Organs)
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20 pages, 8485 KiB  
Article
Research on Compliance Control of Electro-Hydraulic Loading Experimental System
by Shuai Jiang, Haikuo Shen, Shaodan Zhi, Chao Cheng, Huimin Ren and Jiang Tong
Electronics 2024, 13(7), 1273; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13071273 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This article discusses the challenges in preventing workpiece damage due to impacts in electro-hydraulic loading systems, especially in unknown environments. We propose an innovative compliance control strategy, synergizing a series elastic actuator with impedance control to significantly mitigate impact forces between the mechanism [...] Read more.
This article discusses the challenges in preventing workpiece damage due to impacts in electro-hydraulic loading systems, especially in unknown environments. We propose an innovative compliance control strategy, synergizing a series elastic actuator with impedance control to significantly mitigate impact forces between the mechanism and test workpieces. The controller consists of two loops: an internal loop and an outer loop. The internal loop integrates a position loop utilizing a radial basis function observer within a backstepping control framework, effectively countering the nonlinear dynamics of hydraulic actuators and ensuring precise trajectory tracking. The outer loop advances traditional impedance control by adaptively modifying the damping coefficient, resulting in a straightforward and easily implementable damping control law. For the unknown environment parameters, our system employs a parameter estimation law to estimate the unknown environmental stiffness and position parameters. The effectiveness of this strategy has been verified through comparative simulation with traditional impedance control, indicating that the proposed method can not only effectively reduce contact shock in unknown environments, improve response speed, and reduce overshoot, but also improve steady-state accuracy. We provided a feasible control scheme for similar systems to ensure precise and safe operation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computer Science & Engineering)
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6 pages, 407 KiB  
Communication
Femtoscopy for the NAno-Plasmoni Laser Inertial Fusion Experiments (NAPLIFE) Project
by L. P. Csernai, T. Cs?rg?, I. Papp, K. Tamosiunas, M. Csete, A. Szenes, D. Vass, T. S. Biró and N. Kroó
Universe 2024, 10(4), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe10040161 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Hanbury-Brown and Twiss analysis is used to determine the size and timespan of emitted particles. Here, we propose to adapt this method for laser-induced nanoplasmonic inertial confinement fusion to determine the parameters of emitted Deuterium and Helium4 nuclei. This communication is a [...] Read more.
Hanbury-Brown and Twiss analysis is used to determine the size and timespan of emitted particles. Here, we propose to adapt this method for laser-induced nanoplasmonic inertial confinement fusion to determine the parameters of emitted Deuterium and Helium4 nuclei. This communication is a short article that presents part of a larger study over multiple years. It presents a cutting edge method that is new in the field of Inertial Confinement Fusion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multiparticle Dynamics)
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10 pages, 1279 KiB  
Brief Report
Silencing RNA-Mediated Knockdown of IFITM3 Enhances Senecavirus A Replication
by Shamiq Aftab, Eric Nelson, Michael Hildreth and Xiuqing Wang
Pathogens 2024, 13(4), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13040290 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Senecavirus A (SVA) is a non-enveloped, positive sense, single-stranded RNA virus that causes vesicular diseases in pigs. Interferon-induced transmembrane 3 (IFITM3) is an interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) that exhibits broad antiviral activity. We investigated the role of IFITM3 in SVA replication. Both viral protein [...] Read more.
Senecavirus A (SVA) is a non-enveloped, positive sense, single-stranded RNA virus that causes vesicular diseases in pigs. Interferon-induced transmembrane 3 (IFITM3) is an interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) that exhibits broad antiviral activity. We investigated the role of IFITM3 in SVA replication. Both viral protein expression and supernatant virus titer were significantly increased when endogenous IFITM3 was knocked down by approximately 80% in human non-smallcell lung carcinoma cell line (NCI-H1299) compared to silencing RNA control. Interestingly, overexpression of exogenous IFITM3 in NCI-H1299 cells also significantly enhanced viral protein expression and virus titer compared to vector control, which was positively correlated with induction of autophagy mediated by IFITM3 overexpression. Overall, our results indicate an antiviral role of endogenous IFITM3 against SVA. The exact molecular mechanisms by which endogenous IFITM3 limits SVA replication remain to be determined in future studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Veterinary Viral Infections and Host Immune Responses)
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18 pages, 2205 KiB  
Article
New Thiosemicarbazide Derivatives with Multidirectional Biological Action
by Patryk Lasek, Urszula Kosikowska, Przemys?aw Ko?odziej, Gra?yna Kubiak-Tomaszewska, Natalia Krzy?anowska, Tomasz Szostek, Marta Struga, Marcin Feldo, Anna Bogucka-Kocka and Monika Wujec
Molecules 2024, 29(7), 1529; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29071529 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Over the years, several new medicinal substances have been introduced for the treatment of diseases caused by bacteria and parasites. Unfortunately, due to the production of numerous defense mechanisms by microorganisms and parasites, they still pose a serious threat to humanity around the [...] Read more.
Over the years, several new medicinal substances have been introduced for the treatment of diseases caused by bacteria and parasites. Unfortunately, due to the production of numerous defense mechanisms by microorganisms and parasites, they still pose a serious threat to humanity around the world. Therefore, laboratories all over the world are still working on finding new, effective methods of pharmacotherapy. This research work aimed to synthesize new compounds derived from 3-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid hydrazide and to determine their biological activity. The first stage of the research was to obtain seven new compounds, including six linear compounds and one derivative of 1,2,4-triazole. The PASS software was used to estimate the potential probabilities of biological activity of the newly obtained derivatives. Next, studies were carried out to determine the nematocidal potential of the compounds with the use of nematodes of the genus Rhabditis sp. and antibacterial activity using the ACCT standard strains. To determine the lack of cytotoxicity, tests were performed on two cell lines. Additionally, an antioxidant activity test was performed due to the importance of scavenging free radicals in infections with pathogenic microorganisms. The conducted research proved the anthelmintic and antibacterial potential of the newly obtained compounds. The most effective were two compounds with a 3-chlorophenyl substituent, both linear and cyclic derivatives. They demonstrated higher efficacy than the drugs used in treatment. Full article
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20 pages, 1135 KiB  
Review
Immunomodulatory Effects of Fluoroquinolones in Community-Acquired Pneumonia-Associated Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
by Resti Yudhawati and Nisrina Fitriyanti Wicaksono
Biomedicines 2024, 12(4), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12040761 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Community-acquired pneumonia is reported as one of the infectious diseases that leads to the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome. The innate immune system is the first line of defence against microbial invasion; however, its dysregulation during infection, resulting in an increased pathogen [...] Read more.
Community-acquired pneumonia is reported as one of the infectious diseases that leads to the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome. The innate immune system is the first line of defence against microbial invasion; however, its dysregulation during infection, resulting in an increased pathogen load, stimulates the over-secretion of chemokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This phenomenon causes damage to the epithelial–endothelial barrier of the pulmonary alveoli and the leakage of the intravascular protein into the alveolar lumen. Fluoroquinolones are synthetic antimicrobial agents with immunomodulatory properties that can inhibit bacterial proliferation as well as exhibit anti-inflammatory activities. It has been demonstrated that the structure of fluoroquinolones, particularly those with a cyclopropyl group, exerts immunomodulatory effects. Its capability to inhibit phosphodiesterase activity leads to the accumulation of intracellular cAMP, which subsequently enhances PKA activity, resulting in the inhibition of transcriptional factor NF-κB and the activation of CREB. Another mechanism reported is the inhibition of TLR and ERK signalling pathways. Although the sequence of events has not been completely understood, significant progress has been made in comprehending the specific mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory effects of fluoroquinolones. Here, we review the indirect immunomodulatory effects of FQs as an alternative to empirical therapy in patients diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Immunotherapy)
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19 pages, 4131 KiB  
Article
Forest Industrial Waste Materials Upgraded to Fertilizer Pellets for Forest Soil
by Maria Sandberg, Stefan Frodeson, Lena Brunzell and Jaya Shankar Tumuluru
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2868; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072868 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In a circular economy, the efficient utilization of all materials as valuable resources, with a focus on minimizing waste, is paramount. This study shows the possibilities of upgrading the lowest-valued residuals from the forest industry into a new product with both liming and [...] Read more.
In a circular economy, the efficient utilization of all materials as valuable resources, with a focus on minimizing waste, is paramount. This study shows the possibilities of upgrading the lowest-valued residuals from the forest industry into a new product with both liming and fertilizing properties on forest soil. Hydrothermal carbonized sludge mixed with bark and ash in the proportions of 45:10:45 was densified into fertilizer pellets that meet the nutrient requirements of 120 kg N per hectare when 7 tons of pellets is spread in forests. The pellets met a high-quality result according to durability and density, which were above 95% and 900 kg/m3. However, pellets exposed to wet and cold conditions lost their hardness, making the pellets dissolve over time. Small amounts, <5‰, of nutrients, alkali ions, and heavy metals leached out from the pellets under all conditions, indicating good properties for forest soil amendment. The conclusion is that it is possible to close the circle of nutrients by using innovative thinking around forest industrial residual products. Full article
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17 pages, 6407 KiB  
Article
Random Forest Classifier for Cloud Clearing of the Operational TROPOMI XCH4 Product
by Tobias Borsdorff, Mari C. Martinez-Velarte, Maarten Sneep, Mark ter Linden and Jochen Landgraf
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(7), 1208; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16071208 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The TROPOMI XCH4 data product requires rigorous cloud filtering to achieve a product accuracy of <1%. To this end, operational XCH4 data processing has been based on SUOMI-NPP VIIRS cloud observations. However, SUOMI-NPP is nearing the end of its operational life [...] Read more.
The TROPOMI XCH4 data product requires rigorous cloud filtering to achieve a product accuracy of <1%. To this end, operational XCH4 data processing has been based on SUOMI-NPP VIIRS cloud observations. However, SUOMI-NPP is nearing the end of its operational life and has encountered malfunctions in 2022 and 2023. In this study, we introduce a novel machine learning cloud-clearing approach based on a random forest classifier (RFC). The RFC is trained on collocated TROPOMI and SUOMI-NPP VIIRS data to emulate VIIRS-like cloud clearing. After training, cloud masking requires only TROPOMI data, and so becomes operationally independent of SUOMI-NPP. We demonstrate the RFC approach by applying cloud clearing to operational TROPOMI XCH4 data for August 2022, a period in which VIIRS was not operational. For validation, we analyze the TROPOMI XCH4 data at 12 TCCON stations. Comparison of cloud clearing using the RFC and the original VIIRS method reveals excellent agreement with a similar station-to-station bias (−7.4 ppb versus −5.6 ppb), a similar standard deviation of the station-to-station bias (11.6 ppb versus 12 ppb), and the same Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.9. Remarkably, the RFC cloud clearing provides a slightly higher volume of data (2182 versus 2035 daily means) and appears to have fewer outliers. Since 21 November 2023, the RFC approach is part of the operational processing chain of the European Space Agency (ESA). For now, the default practice is to utilize SNPP-VIIRS when accessible. Only in cases where VIIRS data are unavailable do we resort to the RFC cloud mask. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Atmospheric Remote Sensing)
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12 pages, 256 KiB  
Review
Cooperation of the Commune and Parish in Poland in XXI Century as the Implementation of Community Activities
by Dorota Tokarska
Religions 2024, 15(4), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15040429 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The commune and the parish are units of two divisions: government and church administration. Both were created for the better functioning of structures and the implementation of central activities: government and the mission of the Church. Their functioning is based on meeting the [...] Read more.
The commune and the parish are units of two divisions: government and church administration. Both were created for the better functioning of structures and the implementation of central activities: government and the mission of the Church. Their functioning is based on meeting the needs of the local community. In turn, their goals, although seemingly divergent, often overlap, because the main mission of both types of units is the good of community members. Therefore, it was deemed necessary to address in this article the issue of methods of cooperation at the lowest level between local government authorities and parish priests operating in the commune. This article presents a theoretical introduction, analyzing the ways in which both spheres operate, with an emphasis on places of cooperation in order to create a unified community, which is defined as both a commune and a parish. The aim of this article is to outline a framework for future empirical research that could clearly indicate the factors shaping the methods and forms of cooperation between these two entities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Christian Prayer: Social Sciences Perspective)
11 pages, 2684 KiB  
Article
Early Bloomer and Future Master: Getting to the Top of the Modern Badminton World
by Jen-Hao Hsu, Hung-Chieh Fan Chiang, Hsin-Lun Lin, Duan-Shin Lee and Zai-Fu Yao
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2894; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072894 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The road to the top is never easy. This study investigated whether the career trajectories of top-level men’s and women’s badminton players could be predicted by their age at first major debut and the time taken to reach the top 150. Data from [...] Read more.
The road to the top is never easy. This study investigated whether the career trajectories of top-level men’s and women’s badminton players could be predicted by their age at first major debut and the time taken to reach the top 150. Data from the BWF from October 2009 to October 2022 were analyzed using a predictive linear regression model with Bayesian inference, adjusting for anthropometric factors. The results suggested that age at debut influences career high rankings among over 120 elite players. Additionally, observations challenged the Matthew effect in early-career success for young players, proposing that inherent talent may be more significant than early nurturing. The study also examined the potential impact of relative age and early specialization in sports. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering)
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19 pages, 7946 KiB  
Article
Oral Curcumin–Thioketal–Inulin Conjugate Micelles against Radiation–Induced Enteritis
by Jintao Shen, Wencheng Jiao, Bochuan Yuan, Hua Xie, Ziyuan Chen, Meng Wei, Yingbao Sun, Yanping Wu, Feng Zhang, Zhangyu Li, Xu Jin, Lina Du and Yiguang Jin
Antioxidants 2024, 13(4), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13040417 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Radiation–induced enteritis is an unavoidable complication associated with pelvic tumor radiotherapy, significantly influencing the prognosis of cancer patients. The limited availability of commercial gastrointestinal radioprotectors in clinical settings poses a substantial challenge in preventing radiation enteritis. Despite the inherent radioprotective characteristics of Cur [...] Read more.
Radiation–induced enteritis is an unavoidable complication associated with pelvic tumor radiotherapy, significantly influencing the prognosis of cancer patients. The limited availability of commercial gastrointestinal radioprotectors in clinical settings poses a substantial challenge in preventing radiation enteritis. Despite the inherent radioprotective characteristics of Cur in vitro, its poor solubility in water, instability, and low bioavailability lead to inferior therapeutic effects in vivo. Herein, we developed novel ROS-responsive micelles (CTI) from inulin and curcumin, aimed at mitigating radiation enteritis. CTI micelles had excellent solubility and stability. Importantly, CTI improved the cytotoxicity and bioavailability of curcumin, thereby showing enhanced effectiveness in neutralizing ROS induced by radiation, safeguarding against DNA damage, and reducing radiation-induced cellular mortality. Moreover, in a radiation enteritis mice model, CTI not only alleviated severe radiation-induced intestinal injury but also improved redox-related indicators and reduced inflammatory cytokine expression. Furthermore, CTI effectively increased gut microbiota abundance and maintained gut homeostasis. In conclusion, CTI could be a promising candidate for the clinical management of radiation enteritis. Our study provides a new perspective for radioprotection using natural antioxidants. Full article
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12 pages, 372 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Influence of a Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Program on Childhood Well-Being: A Comparative Study in Primary School Students
by Lilyan Vega-Ramírez
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(4), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21040418 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Childhood is a crucial stage of human development in which the lifestyles children adopt can have a significant impact on their well-being throughout their lives. The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the healthy habits and Body Mass Index (BMI) [...] Read more.
Childhood is a crucial stage of human development in which the lifestyles children adopt can have a significant impact on their well-being throughout their lives. The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the healthy habits and Body Mass Index (BMI) of students from a primary school that participated in a program to promote physical activity and healthy eating one year earlier with other students from two schools that had not participated in this type of program. We analyzed a sample of 287 Spanish students, aged between 8 and 12 years. A survey of healthy habits was completed, and anthropometric data were taken to determine their Body Mass Index (BMI). The questionnaire data indicated that there are some significant differences (p = ≤ 0.05) in the consumption of some unhealthy foods between the evaluated groups. An amount of 11% of the sample was considered obese and 26% were overweight; no significant differences were found between the groups. This study suggests that the healthy habits strategy implemented by a school improves pupils’ habits, especially in reducing the consumption of unhealthy foods. Despite the positive effects, the data indicate that these programs fall short of government recommendations, particularly in areas such as physical activity and certain dietary choices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Exercise, and Children’s Health)
23 pages, 5990 KiB  
Review
Research Progress on the Application of Covalent Organic Framework Nanozymes in Analytical Chemistry
by Dongmei Yao, Ling Xia and Gongke Li
Biosensors 2024, 14(4), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14040163 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are porous crystals that have high designability and great potential in designing, encapsulating, and immobilizing nanozymes. COF nanozymes have also attracted extensive attention in analyte sensing and detection because of their abundant active sites, high enzyme-carrying capacity, and significantly [...] Read more.
Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are porous crystals that have high designability and great potential in designing, encapsulating, and immobilizing nanozymes. COF nanozymes have also attracted extensive attention in analyte sensing and detection because of their abundant active sites, high enzyme-carrying capacity, and significantly improved stability. In this paper, we classify COF nanozymes into three types and review their characteristics and advantages. Then, the synthesis methods of these COF nanozymes are introduced, and their performances are compared in a list. Finally, the applications of COF nanozymes in environmental analysis, food analysis, medicine analysis, disease diagnosis, and treatment are reviewed. Furthermore, we also discuss the application prospects of COF nanozymes and the challenges they face. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enzyme Biosensors: Challenges and Future Perspectives)
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20 pages, 9089 KiB  
Article
Chitosan-Based Films Blended with Tannic Acid and Moringa Oleifera for Application in Food Packaging: The Preservation of Strawberries (Fragaria ananassa)
by Raja Venkatesan, Alexandre A. Vetcher, Bandar Ali Al-Asbahi and Seong-Cheol Kim
Polymers 2024, 16(7), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16070937 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Biobased plastics provide a sustainable alternative to conventional food packaging materials, thereby reducing the environmental impact. The present study investigated the effectiveness of chitosan with varying levels of Moringa oleifera seed powder (MOSP) and tannic acid (TA). Chitosan (CS) biocomposite films with tannic [...] Read more.
Biobased plastics provide a sustainable alternative to conventional food packaging materials, thereby reducing the environmental impact. The present study investigated the effectiveness of chitosan with varying levels of Moringa oleifera seed powder (MOSP) and tannic acid (TA). Chitosan (CS) biocomposite films with tannic acid acted as a cross-linker, and Moringa oleifera seed powder served as reinforcement. To enhance food packaging and film performance, Moringa oleifera seed powder was introduced at various loadings of 1.0, 3.0, 5.0, and 10.0 wt.%. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy analyses were performed to study the structure and morphology of the CS/TA/MOSP films. The scanning electron microscopy results confirmed that chitosan/TA with 10.0 wt.% of MOSP produced a lightly miscible droplet/matrix structure. Furthermore, mechanical properties, swelling, water solubility, optical barrier, and water contact angle properties of the film were also calculated. With increasing Moringa oleifera seed powder contents, the biocomposite films’ antimicrobial and antifungal activity increased at the 10.0 wt.% MOSP level; all of the observed bacteria [Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Aspergillus niger (A. niger), and Candida albicans (C. albicans)] had a notably increased percentage of growth. The film, with 10.0 wt.% MOSP content, effectively preserves strawberries’ freshness, making it an ideal food packaging material. Full article
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24 pages, 6985 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Space-Aware Infotaxis II as a Strategy for Odor Source Localization
by Shiqi Liu, Yan Zhang and Shurui Fan
Entropy 2024, 26(4), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26040302 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Mobile robot olfaction of toxic and hazardous odor sources is of great significance in anti-terrorism, disaster prevention, and control scenarios. Aiming at the problems of low search efficiency and easily falling into a local optimum of the current odor source localization strategies, the [...] Read more.
Mobile robot olfaction of toxic and hazardous odor sources is of great significance in anti-terrorism, disaster prevention, and control scenarios. Aiming at the problems of low search efficiency and easily falling into a local optimum of the current odor source localization strategies, the paper proposes the adaptive space-aware Infotaxis II algorithm. To improve the tracking efficiency of robots, a new reward function is designed by considering the space information and emphasizing the exploration behavior of robots. Considering the enhancement in exploratory behavior, an adaptive navigation-updated mechanism is proposed to adjust the movement range of robots in real time through information entropy to avoid an excessive exploration behavior during the search process, which may lead the robot to fall into a local optimum. Subsequently, an improved adaptive cosine salp swarm algorithm is applied to confirm the optimal information adaptive parameter. Comparative simulation experiments between ASAInfotaxis II and the classical search strategies are carried out in 2D and 3D scenarios regarding the search efficiency and search behavior, which show that ASAInfotaxis II is competent to improve the search efficiency to a larger extent and achieves a better balance between exploration and exploitation behaviors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Multidisciplinary Applications)
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