MDPI Articles Cited in the News – September 2025
In this Cited in the News roundup from September, we present recent MDPI Open Access research cited by prominent news outlets such as BBC News and Forbes. The articles include exploring the surprising effects of climate change, the potential dangers of paediatric melatonin overuse, the importance of respect in romantic relationships, and how excess visceral fat can impact lung function in women.
Characterization of Red Sandstone and Black Crust to Analyze Air Pollution Impacts on a Cultural Heritage Building: Red Fort, Delhi, India
Cited by: BBC News
The rise in air pollution and poor air quality, particularly in urban areas, has been linked to the development of numerous health conditions, such as chronic respiratory issues, like asthma, and cardiovascular disease.
However, an article published in the Open Access journal Heritage highlights a less obvious impact of air pollution, which is its effects on buildings and architecture.
The study explores the formation of black crust on the Red Fort heritage building, an important cultural monument. The researchers of the study analysed this crust using a variety of different tools and techniques, such electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, to determine the composition of the crust.
Analysis showed that it consisted mainly of a mineral called gypsum which can be accumulated through excessive emissions from factories and other construction activities.
The research highlights the worrying effects that air pollution may have on important structural artefacts and monuments, as well as the importance of setting up regular cleaning routines to prevent build up of chemical pollutants such as gypsum.
Editor’s Choice
Melatonin Use in Pediatrics: A Clinical Review on Indications, Multisystem Effects, and Toxicity
Cited by The Conversation
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body to promote sleep and is a vital component of sleep regulation. Exogenous melatonin is used by people who struggle with sleep issues, such as insomnia, to promote better quality sleep, or for people who want to regulate their sleep.
The usage of melatonin as a supplement is currently regulated by the food and drug administration in the US as a dietary supplement, freely available for purchase by anyone. Meanwhile, in countries such as the UK and other European countries, melatonin is distributed strictly as prescription-only medication.
Paediatric consumption of melatonin has increased, with many reports of unsupervised melatonin ingestion causing hospitalisation. A study published in the Open Access journal Children presents a clinical review of the effects and toxicity of melatonin in children. Alongside its benefits for aiding the body’s natural sleep cycle, the study also highlights the potential adverse effects of melatonin supplementation, such as headaches and dizziness.
Considering these factors, the authors emphasise the importance of exercising caution when giving children melatonin to help with sleep.
The Dual-Pathway Model of Respect in Romantic Relationships
Cited by Forbes
Respect is important in any relationship, particularly romantic ones. Feeling respected is a critical part of feeling valued and recognised by your partner. A study published in the Open Access journal Sexes explored the importance of two different types of respect on romantic commitment, and whether this is mediated by factors such as satisfaction and investment in the relationship.
The researchers carried out three studies with undergraduate students and members of the local community . They found that individuals had lower relationship satisfaction if they did not feel respected or accepted by their partner. This meant that they are less likely to be committed in their relationship.
The study highlights respect as a critical aspect of romantic relationships, and how different types of respect can be used to understand the nature of romantic commitment and relationships.
Association Between Visceral Fat and Lung Function Impairment in Overweight and Grade I Obese Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Cited by BBC Future
A study published in MDPI’s Open Access journal Advances of Respiratory Medicine (ARJ), explores the importance of lung health, and how it may give a deeper insight into one’s overall health.
The study analysed 78 females (obesity grade 1, overweight, and normal weight) for visceral fat percentages, as well as their lung, heart, and immune function.
The authors found that visceral fat was associated with impeded pulmonary responses and impaired lung function. Furthermore, visceral fat was more strongly related to impaired lung function compared to subcutaneous fat. The study highlights a potential link between the high levels of visceral fat and reduced lung function and its subsequent impacts. More research is needed to elucidate these findings and confirm if the correlation aligns with causation.
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