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18 pages, 7791 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nanopore-Based Surveillance of Leishmania Parasites in Culicoides Latrielle (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) Caught from the Affected Community and Tham Phra Cave in Chiang Rai Province, the Endemic Area of Leishmaniasis in Northern Thailand

by Rinnara Ampol, Puckavadee Somwang, Pathamet Khositharattanakool, Chulaluk Promrangsee, Thanapat Pataradool, Piyapat Tepboonreung, Padet Siriyasatien and Kanok Preativatanyou

Insects 2024, 15(5), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15050327 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

In this research, we elucidated the species composition of Culicoides biting midges, infection prevalence, and genetic diversity of Leishmania parasites circulating in the affected community in Chiang Rai Province, being the most endemic area in Northern Thailand. A total of 146 parous and [...] Read more.

In this research, we elucidated the species composition of Culicoides biting midges, infection prevalence, and genetic diversity of Leishmania parasites circulating in the affected community in Chiang Rai Province, being the most endemic area in Northern Thailand. A total of 146 parous and gravid females, belonging to at least twelve Culicoides species in five subgenera and one species group, were trapped from three collection sites with an overall Leishmania prevalence of 26.7% (39/146). Leishmania was detected, using ITS1-PCR, in C. mahasarakamense (15), C. guttifer (11), C. (Trithecoides) spp. (8), C. jacobsoni (2), C. oxystoma (2), and C. orientalis (1). The evidence of Leishmania infection in these last five species represents new records in Northern Thailand. Given a high infection rate in cavernicolous specimens, this indicates an increased risk of parasite exposure when visiting the cave. Using the nanopore amplicon sequencing, L. martiniquensis was ubiquitously identified in all positives, and more than half of these were also co-infected with L. orientalis. The genetic diversity analysis revealed 13 and 17 unique haplotypes for L. martiniquensis and L. orientalis, respectively. Higher haplotype diversity and relatively low nucleotide diversity were observed in both parasite populations, suggesting recent population divergence. Neutrality tests (Tajima’s D and Fu and Li’s D) showed to be significantly negative, indicating rapid population growth or a selective sweep. Moreover, dominant haplotypes of both Leishmania species were 100% identical to those in all leishmaniasis patients previously reported from Northern Thailand, strongly supporting the imperative role of Culicoides spp. in disease transmission. Essentially, this research provides the first entomological surveillance data representing the sympatric existence, transmission dynamics, and genetic complexity of two autochthonous Leishmania (Mundinia) parasites in several Culicoides species in the endemic area of Northern Thailand. This would contribute to a more complete understanding of the epidemiology of vector infection and facilitate the development of vector control programs to effectively reduce the transmission of this neglected tropical disease in endemic areas of Northern Thailand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Vectors of Human and Zoonotic Diseases)

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15 pages, 10317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

BAP31 Plays an Essential Role in Mouse B Cell Development via Regulation of BCR Signaling

by Bo Zhao, Fei An, Zhenzhen Hao, Wanting Zhang and Bing Wang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4962; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094962 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

B cell receptor-associated protein 31 (BAP31) is a transmembrane protein that is widely expressed and primarily located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). B cells play a crucial role in the immune system, and BAP31 significantly contributes to the functions of various immune cells. [...] Read more.

B cell receptor-associated protein 31 (BAP31) is a transmembrane protein that is widely expressed and primarily located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). B cells play a crucial role in the immune system, and BAP31 significantly contributes to the functions of various immune cells. However, the specific role of BAP31 in B lymphocytes development remains unknown. In this study, we utilized a mouse model with BAP31 deleted from B cells to investigate its effects. Our findings reveal a block in early B cell development in the bone marrow and a significant decrease in the number of B cells in peripheral lymphoid organs taken from BAP31 B cell conditional knockout (BAP31-BCKO) mice. B cell receptor (BCR) signaling is crucial for the normal development and differentiation of B lymphocytes. BAP31, an endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein, directly regulates the BCR signaling pathway and was shown to be significantly positively correlated with B cell activation and proliferation. These findings establish BAP31 as a crucial regulator of early B cell development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Immunology)

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12 pages, 1300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on the Hydro-Liquefaction Kinetics of Shengli Lignite during the Heating-Up and Isothermal Stages under Mild Conditions

by Liang Li, Quan Zhang, Shunjin Huang, Yanyan Yan, Yingyue Qin, Xiaochen Huang, Muxin Liu, Shiyong Wu and Jinsheng Gao

Energies 2024, 17(9), 2174; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092174 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Studying the hydro-liquefaction kinetics of lignite contributes to optimizing the mild liquefaction process for lignite. In this paper, the direct liquefaction performance of Shengli lignite (SL) was investigated using a H₂/THN system with 4 MPa of initial pressure, and reaction kinetic [...] Read more.

Studying the hydro-liquefaction kinetics of lignite contributes to optimizing the mild liquefaction process for lignite. In this paper, the direct liquefaction performance of Shengli lignite (SL) was investigated using a H₂/THN system with 4 MPa of initial pressure, and reaction kinetic models were established for the heating-up stage and the isothermal stage. The result showed that the liquefaction performance of the SL was excellent, with a conversion of 62.18% and an oil and gas (O + G) yield of 29.88% at 698.15 K. After one hour of reaction, the conversion and O + G yield were 94.61% and 76.78%, respectively. During the heating-up stage, the easily reactive part of the SL was 50.07%, and it was converted directly into oil, gas, asphaltene (AS), and preasphaltene (PA) simultaneously. There was no significant secondary hydrogenation conversion of the AS and PA products. During the isothermal stage, the hard-to-react part was predominantly converted into AS and PA, while the remaining easily reactive part continue to react completely. The conversion of AS and PA into oil and gas was a rate-controlling step during this stage. The amount of unreacted coal estimated using the model calculated in the isothermal stage was 2.98%, which was significantly consistent with the experimental value of 2.81%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section I1: Fuel)

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21 pages, 3218 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Starvation-Induced Changes to the Midgut Proteome and Neuropeptides in Manduca sexta

by Gurlaz Kaur, David R. Quilici, Rebekah J. Woolsey, Juli Petereit and Andrew B. Nuss

Insects 2024, 15(5), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15050325 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Starvation is a complex physiological state that induces changes in protein expression to ensure survival. The insect midgut is sensitive to changes in dietary content as it is at the forefront of communicating information about incoming nutrients to the body via hormones. Therefore, [...] Read more.

Starvation is a complex physiological state that induces changes in protein expression to ensure survival. The insect midgut is sensitive to changes in dietary content as it is at the forefront of communicating information about incoming nutrients to the body via hormones. Therefore, a DIA proteomics approach was used to examine starvation physiology and, specifically, the role of midgut neuropeptide hormones in a representative lepidopteran, Manduca sexta. Proteomes were generated from midguts of M. sexta fourth-instar caterpillars, starved for 24 h and 48 h, and compared to fed controls. A total of 3047 proteins were identified, and 854 of these were significantly different in abundance. KEGG analysis revealed that metabolism pathways were less abundant in starved caterpillars, but oxidative phosphorylation proteins were more abundant. In addition, six neuropeptides or related signaling cascade proteins were detected. Particularly, neuropeptide F1 (NPF1) was significantly higher in abundance in starved larvae. A change in juvenile hormone-degrading enzymes was also detected during starvation. Overall, our results provide an exploration of the midgut response to starvation in M. sexta and validate DIA proteomics as a useful tool for quantifying insect midgut neuropeptide hormones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Neuropeptides and Their Receptors: Molecular and Physiological Advances)

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13 pages, 2458 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pancreatic Iodine Density and Fat Fraction on Dual-Energy Computed Tomography in Acute Pancreatitis

by Zrinka Matana Kaštelan, Ivan Brumini, Goran Poropat, Lovro Tkalčić, Tiana Grubešić and Damir Miletić

Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090955 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

The aim of our study was to investigate iodine density (ID) and fat fraction (FF) on dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP). This retrospective study included 72 patients with clinically confirmed AP and 62 control subjects with DECT of [...] Read more.

The aim of our study was to investigate iodine density (ID) and fat fraction (FF) on dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP). This retrospective study included 72 patients with clinically confirmed AP and 62 control subjects with DECT of the abdomen. Two radiologists assessed necrosis and measured attenuation values, ID, and FF in three pancreatic segments. We used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis to determine the optimal threshold for ID for the differentiation between AP groups. The ID was significantly higher in interstitial edematous AP compared to necrotizing AP and the control group (both p < 0.05). The ROC curve analysis revealed the thresholds of ID for detecting pancreatic necrosis ≤ 2.2, ≤2.3, and ≤2.4 mg/mL (AUC between 0.880 and 0.893, p > 0.05) for the head, body, and tail, respectively. The FF was significantly higher for pancreatitis groups when compared with the control group in the head and body segments (both p < 0.001). In the tail, the difference was significant in necrotizing AP (p = 0.028). The ID values were independent of attenuation values correlated with the FF values in pancreatic tissue. Iodine density values allow for differentiation between morphologic types of AP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Computed Tomography Imaging for Clinical Diagnosis)

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22 pages, 14624 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drought Risk Assessment of Winter Wheat at Different Growth Stages in Huang-Huai-Hai Plain Based on Nonstationary Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index and Crop Coefficient

by Wenhui Chen, Rui Yao, Peng Sun, Qiang Zhang, Vijay P. Singh, Shao Sun, Amir AghaKouchak, Chenhao Ge and Huilin Yang

Remote Sens. 2024, 16(9), 1625; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16091625 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Soil moisture plays a crucial role in determining the yield of winter wheat. The Huang-Huai-Hai (HHH) Plain is the main growing area of winter wheat in China, and frequent occurrence of drought seriously restricts regional agricultural development. Hence, a daily-scale Non-stationary Standardized Precipitation [...] Read more.

Soil moisture plays a crucial role in determining the yield of winter wheat. The Huang-Huai-Hai (HHH) Plain is the main growing area of winter wheat in China, and frequent occurrence of drought seriously restricts regional agricultural development. Hence, a daily-scale Non-stationary Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (NSPEI), based on winter wheat crop coefficient (Kc), was developed in the present study to evaluate the impact of drought characteristics on winter wheat in different growth stages. Results showed that the water demand for winter wheat decreased with the increase in latitude, and the water shortage was affected by effective precipitation, showing a decreasing trend from the middle to both sides in the HHH Plain. Water demand and water shortage showed an increasing trend at the jointing stage and heading stage, while other growth stages showed a decreasing trend. The spatial distributions of drought duration and intensity were consistent, which were higher in the northern region than in the southern region. Moreover, the water shortage and drought intensity at the jointing stage and heading stage showed an increasing trend. The drought had the greatest impact on winter wheat yield at the tillering stage, jointing stage, and heading stage, and the proportions of drought risk vulnerability in these three stages accounted for 0.25, 0.21, and 0.19, respectively. The high-value areas of winter wheat loss due to drought were mainly distributed in the northeast and south-central regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biogeosciences Remote Sensing)

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19 pages, 579 KiB

Open AccessReview

Understanding the Pathophysiology of Preeclampsia: Exploring the Role of Antiphospholipid Antibodies and Future Directions

by Melinda-Ildiko Mitranovici, Diana Maria Chiorean, Raluca Moraru, Liviu Moraru, Laura Caravia, Andreea Taisia Tiron, Marius Craina and Ovidiu Simion Cotoi

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2668; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092668 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder in pregnancy associated with significant fetal and maternal complications. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired form of thrombophilia characterized by recurrent venous or arterial thrombosis and obstetric complications that significantly increases morbidity and mortality rates. While preeclampsia [...] Read more.

Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder in pregnancy associated with significant fetal and maternal complications. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired form of thrombophilia characterized by recurrent venous or arterial thrombosis and obstetric complications that significantly increases morbidity and mortality rates. While preeclampsia may not be the most prevalent obstetric complication in APS, it significantly impacts the long-term health of both mother and child. The treatment of preeclampsia in antiphospholipid syndrome is different from the treatment of preeclampsia as an independent disease. Despite current treatments involving anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, and antihypertensive drugs, obstetric complications may persist, underscoring the need for cohesive management and effective treatments. The objective of our review is to briefly present knowledge about the physiopathology of preeclampsia and the role of antiphospholipid antibodies in this process. Based on the existing literature, our review aims to identify future directions in molecular pathology toward the discovery of biomarkers and targeted treatments. The application of multidisciplinary approaches and prognostic models, including new biomarkers, could be beneficial in the prediction of PE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management, Diagnosis and Pathophysiology of Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Current Practice and Future Perspectives—Volume II)

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11 pages, 1255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the First Three Years of Treatment of Children with Congenital Hypothyroidism Identified through the Alberta Newborn Screening Program

by Iveta Sosova, Alyssa Archibald, Erik W. Rosolowsky, Sarah Rathwell, Susan Christian and Elizabeth T. Rosolowsky

Int. J. Neonatal Screen. 2024, 10(2), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijns10020035 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

The effectiveness of newborn screening (NBS) for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) relies on timely screening, confirmation of diagnosis, and initiation and ongoing monitoring of treatment. The objective of this study was to ascertain the extent to which infants with CH have received timely and [...] Read more.

The effectiveness of newborn screening (NBS) for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) relies on timely screening, confirmation of diagnosis, and initiation and ongoing monitoring of treatment. The objective of this study was to ascertain the extent to which infants with CH have received timely and appropriate management within the first 3 years of life, following diagnosis through NBS in Alberta, Canada. Deidentified laboratory data were extracted between 1 April 2014 and 31 March 2019 from Alberta Health administrative databases for infants born in this time frame. Time to lab collection was anchored from date of birth. Timeliness was assessed as the frequency of monitoring of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and appropriateness as the frequency of children maintaining biochemical euthyroidism. Among 160 term infants, 95% had confirmation of diagnosis by 16 days of age. The cohort had a median of 2 (range 0–5) TSH measurements performed in the time interval from 0 to 1 month, 4 (0–12) from 1 to 6 months, 2 (0–10) from 6 to 12 months, and 7 (0–21) from 12 to 36 months. Approximately half were still biochemically hypothyroid (TSH > 7 mU/L) at 1 month of age. After becoming euthyroid, at least some period of hypo- (60%) or hyperthyroidism (TSH < 0.2 mU/L) (39%) was experienced. More work needs to be performed to discern factors contributing to prolonged periods of hypothyroidism or infrequent lab monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Newborn Screening for Congenital Hypothyroidism)

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15 pages, 3997 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wire Bow In Situ Measurement for Monitoring the Evolution of Sawing Capability of Diamond Wire Saw during Slicing Sapphire

by Zixing Yang, Hui Huang, Xinjiang Liao, Zhiyuan Lai, Zhiteng Xu and Yanjun Zhao

Materials 2024, 17(9), 2134; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17092134 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Electroplated diamond wire sawing is widely used as a processing method to cut hard and brittle difficult-to-machine materials. Currently, obtaining the sawing capability of diamond wire saw through the wire bow is still difficult. In this paper, a method for calculating the sawing [...] Read more.

Electroplated diamond wire sawing is widely used as a processing method to cut hard and brittle difficult-to-machine materials. Currently, obtaining the sawing capability of diamond wire saw through the wire bow is still difficult. In this paper, a method for calculating the sawing capability of diamond wire saw in real-time based on the wire bow is proposed. The influence of the renewed length per round trip, crystal orientation of sapphire, wire speed, and feed rate on the wire sawing capability has been revealed via slicing experiments. The results indicate that renewing the diamond wire saw, and reducing the wire speed and feed rate can delay the reduction in sawing capability. Furthermore, controlling the value of renewed length per round trip can make the diamond wire saw enter a stable cutting state, in which the capability of the wire saw no longer decreases. The sawing capability of diamond wire saw cutting in the A-plane of the sapphire is smaller than that of the C-plane, and a suitable feed rate or wire speed within the range of sawing parameters studied in this study can avoid a rapid decrease in the sawing capability of the wire saw during the cutting process. The knowledge obtained in this study provides a theoretical basis for monitoring the performance of the wire saw, and guidance for the wire cutting process in semiconductor manufacturing. In the future, it may even be possible to provide real-time performance parameters of diamond wire saw for the digital twin model of wire sawing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue High-Efficiency Machining Technologies and Advanced Tools for Hard and Brittle Materials)

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19 pages, 1074 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Moringa, Milk Thistle, and Jujube Seed Cold-Pressed Oils: Characteristic Profiles, Thermal Properties, and Oxidative Stability

by Haifa Sebii, Sirine Karra, Abir Mokni Ghribi, Sabine Danthine, Christophe Blecker, Hamadi Attia and Souhail Besbes

Foods 2024, 13(9), 1402; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13091402 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Cold-pressed moringa, milk thistle, and jujube seed oils were investigated in terms of their characteristic profiles, thermal properties, and oxidative stability. The findings proved that the extracted oils were characterized by high nutritional values, which encourages their use in various fields. Results showed [...] Read more.

Cold-pressed moringa, milk thistle, and jujube seed oils were investigated in terms of their characteristic profiles, thermal properties, and oxidative stability. The findings proved that the extracted oils were characterized by high nutritional values, which encourages their use in various fields. Results showed significant differences between the obtained oils. Overall, jujube seed oil exhibited the best quality parameters, with acidity equal to 0.762 versus 1% for the moringa and milk thistle seed oils. Milk thistle seed oil showed absorbance in the UV-C (100–290 nm), UV-B (290–320 nm), and UV-A (320–400 nm) ranges, while the moringa and jujube seed oils showed absorbance only in the UV-B and UV-A ranges. Concerning bioactive compounds, jujube seed oil presented the highest content of polyphenols, which promoted a good scavenging capacity (90% at 10 µg/mL) compared to the moringa and milk thistle seed oils. Assessing the thermal properties of the obtained oils showed the presence of four groups of triglycerides in the moringa and milk thistle seed oils, and two groups of triglycerides in the jujube seed oil. The thermograms were constant at temperatures above 10 °C for milk thistle seed oil, 15 °C for jujube seed oil, and 30 °C for moringa seed oil, which corresponded to complete liquefaction of the oils. The extinction coefficients K₂₃₂ and K₂₇₀, monitored during storage for 60 days at 60 °C, proved that jujube seed oil had the highest polyphenols content and was the most stable against thermal oxidation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extracts from Plant Foods: Biological Characterization and Application)

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12 pages, 8355 KiB

Open AccessReview

Re-Expansion Pulmonary Edema as a Life-Threatening Complication in Massive, Long-Standing Pneumothorax: A Case Series and Literature Review

by Giacomo Cusumano, Luigi La Via, Alberto Terminella and Massimiliano Sorbello

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2667; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092667 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Re-expansion pulmonary edema is a rare and potentially life-threatening complication that can occur after the rapid re-expansion of a collapsed lung due to pneumothorax or pleural effusion. It has a multifactorial pathogenesis, and risk factors for re-expansion pulmonary edema, such as chronic lung [...] Read more.

Re-expansion pulmonary edema is a rare and potentially life-threatening complication that can occur after the rapid re-expansion of a collapsed lung due to pneumothorax or pleural effusion. It has a multifactorial pathogenesis, and risk factors for re-expansion pulmonary edema, such as chronic lung collapse, rapid re-expansion, and changes in pulmonary vascular permeability, have been identified. Clinical manifestations vary, ranging from almost asymptomatic to a rapidly fatal condition, and its incidence may be more common and less fatal than previously believed. The literature emphasizes the importance of early recognition and management to ensure favorable outcomes. However, there is ongoing debate regarding the indications for ventilatory support and the timing of non-invasive or invasive ventilation. Herein, we report a case series of three paradigmatic examples of massive re-expansion pulmonary edema occurring over a period of 10 years in our institution among a population of 815 patients with spontaneous pneumothorax. We also conducted a literature review on re-expansion pulmonary edema, with a particular focus on diagnosis and management. In each case, despite initially normal clinical parameters, severe respiratory distress developed following the insertion of a thoracic drainage tube for a massive spontaneous pneumothorax. Two patients required High-Flow Nasal Oxygen, and one was addressed to intensive management, including CPAP. In all cases, the patient’s outcome was optimal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances in Thoracic Surgery)

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17 pages, 5632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preparation of Oxygen Reduction Catalyst Electrodes by Electrochemical Acidification and Synergistic Electrodeposition

by Liheng Zhou, Yongjian Guo, Yu Xu, Ping Li and Qi Zhang

Catalysts 2024, 14(5), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14050300 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

A proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is an efficient and environmentally friendly power production technology that uses hydrogen energy. The cathodic oxygen reduction electrode is a critical component in the development of PEMFC. Most techniques deposit catalyst nanoparticles in areas that are [...] Read more.

A proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is an efficient and environmentally friendly power production technology that uses hydrogen energy. The cathodic oxygen reduction electrode is a critical component in the development of PEMFC. Most techniques deposit catalyst nanoparticles in areas that are inaccessible for catalytic processes, reducing platinum utilization. The substrate used in this study was carbon paper (CP) with a self-supporting structure. First, electrochemical acidification technology was employed to modify the CP’s surface, followed by nanoparticle manufacturing and fixation on the CP in a single step by electrodeposition. The Pt/C_0.5V_2.24CP catalyst electrode demonstrated high-quality activity in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), with a homogeneous particle dispersion and particle size of around 50 nm. The mass activity and electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) of the Pt/C_0.5V_2.24CP catalyst electrode were 1.74 and 3.98 times higher than those of the Pt/C/CP-1 electrodes made with commercial catalysts, respectively. After 5000 cycles of accelerated durability testing (ADT), the mass activity and ECSA were 1.28 times and 6.16 times more than Pt/C/CP-1. This paper successfully proved the viability of electrodepositing Pt nanoparticles on CP following acidification, and that the electrochemical acidification methods have a positive influence on improving electrode ORR activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Hydrogen Energy Technologies, 2nd Volume)

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17 pages, 859 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Downside Risk in Australian and Japanese Stock Markets: Evidence Based on the Expectile Regression

by Kohei Marumo and Steven Li

J. Risk Financial Manag. 2024, 17(5), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17050189 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

The expectile-based Value at Risk (EVaR) has gained popularity as it is more sensitive to the magnitude of extreme losses than the conventional quantile-based VaR (QVaR). This paper applies the expectile regression approach to evaluate the EVaR of stock market indices of Australia [...] Read more.

The expectile-based Value at Risk (EVaR) has gained popularity as it is more sensitive to the magnitude of extreme losses than the conventional quantile-based VaR (QVaR). This paper applies the expectile regression approach to evaluate the EVaR of stock market indices of Australia and Japan. We use an expectile regression model that considers lagged returns and common risk factors to calculate the EVaR for each stock market and to evaluate the interdependence of downside risk between the two markets. Our findings suggest that both Australian and Japanese stock markets are affected by their past development and the international stock markets. Additionally, ASX 200 index has significant impact on Nikkei 225 in terms of downside tail risk, while the impact of Nikkei 225 on ASX is not significant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: Journal of Risk and Financial Management)

17 pages, 3574 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrochemical Sensing Device for Carboplatin Monitoring in Proof-of-Concept Drug Delivery Nanosystems

by Alexandra Pusta, Mihaela Tertis, Catalina Ardusadan, Simona Mirel and Cecilia Cristea

Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090793 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

(1) Background: Carboplatin (CBP) is a chemotherapeutic drug widely used in the treatment of a variety of cancers. Despite its efficiency, CBP is associated with side effects that greatly limit its clinical use. To mitigate these effects, CBP can be encapsulated in targeted [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Carboplatin (CBP) is a chemotherapeutic drug widely used in the treatment of a variety of cancers. Despite its efficiency, CBP is associated with side effects that greatly limit its clinical use. To mitigate these effects, CBP can be encapsulated in targeted delivery systems, such as liposomes. Ensuring the adequate loading and release of CBP from these carriers requires strict control in pharmaceutical formulation development, demanding modern, rapid, and robust analytical methods. The aim of this study was the development of a sensor for the fast and accurate quantification of CBP and its application on proof-of-concept CBP-loaded nanosomes. (2) Methods: Screen-printed electrodes were obtained in-lab and the electrochemical behavior of CBP was tested on the obtained electrodes. (3) Results: The in-lab screen-printed electrodes demonstrated superior properties compared to commercial ones. The novel sensors demonstrated accurate detection of CBP on a dynamic range from 5 to 500 μg/mL (13.5–1350 μM). The method was successfully applied on CBP loaded and released from nanosomes, with strong correlations with a spectrophotometric method used as control. (4) Conclusions: This study demonstrates the viability of electrochemical techniques as alternative options during the initial phases of pharmaceutical formulation development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends in Electrochemical Nanosensing)

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12 pages, 2133 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Butane Tetracarboxylic Acid Grafted on Polymeric Nanofibrous Aerogels for Highly Efficient Protein Absorption and Separation

by Jianwei Lu, Yangang Jiang, Yufei Qiao, Zihao Wen, Zhengjin Luo, Mukhtar Ahmed, Amjad Ali and Li Guo

Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1270; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091270 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Developing high-performance and low-cost protein purification materials is of great importance to meet the demands for highly purified proteins in biotechnological industries. Herein, a facile strategy was developed to design and construct high-efficiency protein absorption and separation media by combining aerogels’ molding techniques [...] Read more.

Developing high-performance and low-cost protein purification materials is of great importance to meet the demands for highly purified proteins in biotechnological industries. Herein, a facile strategy was developed to design and construct high-efficiency protein absorption and separation media by combining aerogels’ molding techniques and impregnation processes. Poly (ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) (EVOH) nanofibrous aerogels (NFAs) were modified by grafting butane tetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) over them in situ. This modification was carried out using polyphosphoric acid as a catalyst. The resulting EVOH/BTCA NFAs exhibited favorable comprehensive properties. Benefiting from the highly interconnected porous structure, good underwater compressive properties, and abundant absorption ligands, the obtained EVOH/BTCA NFAs possessed a high static absorption capacity of 1082.13 mg/g to lysozyme and a short absorption equilibrium time of about 6 h. A high saturated dynamic absorption capacity for lysozyme (716.85 mg/g) was also realized solely by gravity. Furthermore, EVOH/BTCA NFAs displayed excellent reusability, good acid and alkaline resistance, and unique absorption selectivity performance. The successful synthesis of such aerogels can provide a potential candidate for next-generation protein absorbents for bio-separation and purification engineering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Applications)

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13 pages, 778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Icing on Wind Turbines Based on SCADA Data via Temporal Convolutional Network

by Yujie Zhang, Nasser Kehtarnavaz, Mario Rotea and Teja Dasari

Energies 2024, 17(9), 2175; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092175 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Icing on the blades of wind turbines during winter seasons causes a reduction in power and revenue losses. The prediction of icing before it occurs has the potential to enable mitigating actions to reduce ice accumulation. This paper presents a framework for the [...] Read more.

Icing on the blades of wind turbines during winter seasons causes a reduction in power and revenue losses. The prediction of icing before it occurs has the potential to enable mitigating actions to reduce ice accumulation. This paper presents a framework for the prediction of icing on wind turbines based on Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) data without requiring the installation of any additional icing sensors on the turbines. A Temporal Convolutional Network is considered as the model to predict icing from the SCADA data time series. All aspects of the icing prediction framework are described, including the necessary data preprocessing, the labeling of SCADA data for icing conditions, the selection of informative icing features or variables in SCADA data, and the design of a Temporal Convolutional Network as the prediction model. Two performance metrics to evaluate the prediction outcome are presented. Using SCADA data from an actual wind turbine, the model achieves an average prediction accuracy of

77.6 %

for future times of up to 48 h. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Wind Energy Technology)

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14 pages, 7286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Energy-Efficient 12-Bit VCO-Based Incremental Zoom ADC with Fast Phase-Alignment Scheme for Multi-Channel Biomedical Applications

by Joongyu Kim and Sung-Yun Park

Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1754; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091754 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a low-power, energy-efficient, 12-bit incremental zoom analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for multi-channel bio-signal acquisitions. The ADC consists of a 7-stage ring voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO)-based incremental ΔΣ modulator (I-ΔΣM) and an 8-bit successive approximation register (SAR) ADC. The proposed VCO-based I-ΔΣM can [...] Read more.

This paper presents a low-power, energy-efficient, 12-bit incremental zoom analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for multi-channel bio-signal acquisitions. The ADC consists of a 7-stage ring voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO)-based incremental ΔΣ modulator (I-ΔΣM) and an 8-bit successive approximation register (SAR) ADC. The proposed VCO-based I-ΔΣM can provide fast phase-alignment of the ring-VCO to reduce the interval settling time; thereby, the I-ΔΣM can accommodate time-division-multiplexed input signals without phase leakage between consecutive measurements. The SAR ADC also adopts splitting unit capacitors that can support V_CM-free tri-level switching and prevent invalid states from the phase frequency detector with minimal logic gates and switches. The proposed ADC has been fabricated in a standard 180 nm standard 1P6M CMOS process, exhibiting a 67-dB peak signal-to-noise ratio, a 74-dB dynamic range, and a Walden figure of merit of 19.12 fJ/c-s, while consuming a power of 3.51 μW with a sampling rate of 100 kS/s. Full article

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16 pages, 8621 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extracting the DBH of Moso Bamboo Forests Using LiDAR: Parameter Optimization and Accuracy Evaluation

by Longwei Li, Linjia Wei, Nan Li, Shijun Zhang, Zhicheng Wu, Miaofei Dong and Yuyun Chen

Forests 2024, 15(5), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050804 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

The accurate determination of the Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) of Moso bamboo is crucial for estimating biomass and carbon storage in Moso bamboo forests. In this research, we utilized handheld LiDAR point cloud data to extract the DBH of Moso bamboo and [...] Read more.

The accurate determination of the Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) of Moso bamboo is crucial for estimating biomass and carbon storage in Moso bamboo forests. In this research, we utilized handheld LiDAR point cloud data to extract the DBH of Moso bamboo and enhanced the accuracy of diameter fitting by optimizing denoising parameters. Specifically, we fine-tuned two denoising parameters, neighborhood point number and standard deviation multiplier, across five gradient levels for denoising. Subsequently, DBH fitting was conducted on data processed with varying denoising parameters, followed by a precision evaluation to investigate the key factors influencing the accuracy of Moso bamboo DBH fitting. The research results indicate that a handheld laser was used to scan six plots, from which 132 single Moso bamboo trees were selected. Out of these, 122 single trees were successfully segmented and identified, achieving an accuracy rate of 92.4% in identifying single Moso bamboo trees, with an average accuracy of 95.64% in extracting DBH for individual plants; the mean error was ±1.8 cm. Notably, setting the minimum neighborhood point to 10 resulted in the highest fitting accuracy for DBH. Moreover, the optimal standard deviation multiplier threshold was found to be 1 in high-density forest plots and 2 in low-density forest plots. Forest condition and slope were identified as the primary factors impacting the accuracy of Moso bamboo DBH fitting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LiDAR Remote Sensing for Forestry)

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17 pages, 4019 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis of WSSV-Challenged Penaeus vannamei with Variable Resistance Levels

by Xupeng Li, Qian Xue, Sheng Luan, Kun Luo, Jie Kong and Xianhong Meng

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4961; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094961 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

The Pacific white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei, is highly susceptible to white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). Our study explored the transcriptomic responses of P. vannamei from resistant and susceptible families, uncovering distinct expression patterns after WSSV infection. The analysis revealed a higher [...] Read more.

The Pacific white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei, is highly susceptible to white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). Our study explored the transcriptomic responses of P. vannamei from resistant and susceptible families, uncovering distinct expression patterns after WSSV infection. The analysis revealed a higher number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the susceptible family following WSSV infection compared to the resistant family, when both were evaluated against their respective control groups, indicating that the host resistance of the family line influences the transcriptome. The results also showed that subsequent to an identical duration following WSSV infection, there were more DEGs in P. vannamei with a high viral load than in those with a low viral load. To identify common transcriptomic responses, we profiled DEGs across families at 96 and 228 h post-infection (hpi). The analysis yielded 64 up-regulated and 37 down-regulated DEGs at 96 hpi, with 33 up-regulated and 34 down-regulated DEGs at 228 hpi, showcasing the dynamics of the transcriptomic response over time. Real-time RT-PCR assays confirmed significant DEG expression changes post-infection. Our results offer new insights into shrimp’s molecular defense mechanisms against WSSV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biotechnology and Its Application in Genetic Breeding)

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13 pages, 928 KiB

Open AccessReview

On the Re-Creation of Protoribosome Analogues in the Lab

by Ilana Agmon

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4960; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094960 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

The evolution of the translation system is a fundamental issue in the quest for the origin of life. A feasible evolutionary scenario necessitates the autonomous emergence of a protoribosome capable of catalyzing the synthesis of the initial peptides. The peptidyl transferase center (PTC) [...] Read more.

The evolution of the translation system is a fundamental issue in the quest for the origin of life. A feasible evolutionary scenario necessitates the autonomous emergence of a protoribosome capable of catalyzing the synthesis of the initial peptides. The peptidyl transferase center (PTC) region in the modern ribosomal large subunit is believed to retain a vestige of such a prebiotic non-coded protoribosome, which would have self-assembled from random RNA chains, catalyzed peptide bond formation between arbitrary amino acids, and produced short peptides. Recently, three research groups experimentally demonstrated that several distinct dimeric constructs of protoribosome analogues, derived predicated on the approximate 2-fold rotational symmetry inherent in the PTC region, possess the ability to spontaneously fold, dimerize, and catalyze the formation of peptide bonds and of short peptides. These dimers are examined, aiming at retrieving information concerned with the characteristics of a prebiotic protoribosome. The analysis suggests preconditions for the laboratory re-creation of credible protoribosome analogues, including the preference of a heterodimer protoribosome, contradicting the common belief in the precedence of homodimers. Additionally, it derives a dynamic process which possibly played a role in the spontaneous production of the first bio-catalyzed peptides in the prebiotic world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)

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14 pages, 7957 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Unsteady Internal Flow and Its Induced Structural Response in a Circulating Water Pump

by Jinqi Lu, Xueliang Yao, Haixia Zheng, Xiaowei Yan, Houlin Liu and Tianxin Wu

Water 2024, 16(9), 1294; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16091294 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

As critical equipment in nuclear power systems, the stability of circulating water pumps (CWP) directly impacts the efficiency of power plants. To investigate the impact mechanisms of the unsteady flow characteristics and flow-induced forces on the rotation system, numerical simulation methods were employed [...] Read more.

As critical equipment in nuclear power systems, the stability of circulating water pumps (CWP) directly impacts the efficiency of power plants. To investigate the impact mechanisms of the unsteady flow characteristics and flow-induced forces on the rotation system, numerical simulation methods were employed to calculate the internal flow of a volute mixed-flow CWP under different flow rates (0.8Q_d, 1.0Q_d, 1.2Q_d). The flow field results indicate that, under the part-load condition, the flow within the volute is chaotic with high energy losses, while under the over-load condition, there is a significant velocity gradient within the impeller, leading to relatively severe flow losses. Additionally, the rotor–stator interface is a major factor in flow-induced pulsations, and the asymmetric pressure distribution within the volute results in radial force imbalance. The finite element method (FEM) results indicate that the position of maximum stress on the pump shaft is closely related to the ratio of radial and axial force. Increasing the flow rate appropriately has been noted to be advantageous in reducing flow-induced forces and their amplitude, consequently diminishing the forces on the rotation system and improving the long-term operational stability of the CWP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Hydraulics and Hydrodynamics)

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14 pages, 744 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Structure of Introduced Plasmodium vivax Malaria Isolates in Greece, 2015–2019

by Ioanna Spiliopoulou, Danai Pervanidou, Nikolaos Tegos, Maria Tseroni, Agoritsa Baka, Annita Vakali, Chrisovaladou-Niki Kefaloudi, Vasilios Papavasilopoulos, Anastasia Mpimpa and Eleni Patsoula

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050102 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Greece has been malaria-free since 1974, after an intense malaria control program. However, as Greece hosts migrant populations from P. vivax malaria-endemic countries, there is a risk of introducing the disease to specific vulnerable and receptive areas of the country. Knowledge of the [...] Read more.

Greece has been malaria-free since 1974, after an intense malaria control program. However, as Greece hosts migrant populations from P. vivax malaria-endemic countries, there is a risk of introducing the disease to specific vulnerable and receptive areas of the country. Knowledge of the genetic diversity of P. vivax populations is essential for understanding the dynamics of malaria disease transmission in a given region. We used nine highly polymorphic markers to genotype 124 P. vivax-infected archived DNA samples from human blood specimens referred to the NMRL from all over Greece throughout 2015–2019. The genotypic variability of the samples studied was noted, as they comprised several unique haplotypes, indicative of the importation of a large number of different P. vivax strains in the country. However, only a few events of local transmission were recorded. Genotyping revealed and confirmed the same clusters as those identified through epidemiological investigation. In only one introduction event was the index case found. No sustained/ongoing malaria transmissions in/between the studied regions or during consecutive years or additional foci of local transmission were observed. Genotyping is an important component in assisting malaria surveillance, as it provides information concerning the patterns of introduction and the effectiveness of implemented malaria control and elimination measures. Full article

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14 pages, 2707 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ternary Polymer Solar Cells: Impact of Non-Fullerene Acceptors on Optical and Morphological Properties

by Quentin Eynaud, Tomoyuki Koganezawa, Hidehiro Sekimoto, Mohamed el Amine Kramdi, Gilles Quéléver, Olivier Margeat, Jörg Ackermann, Noriyuki Yoshimoto and Christine Videlot-Ackermann

Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1752; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091752 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024

Abstract

Ternary organic solar cells contain a single three-component photoactive layer with a wide absorption window, achieved without the need for multiple stacking. However, adding a third component into a well-known binary blend can influence the energetics, optical window, charge carrier transport, crystalline order [...] Read more.

Ternary organic solar cells contain a single three-component photoactive layer with a wide absorption window, achieved without the need for multiple stacking. However, adding a third component into a well-known binary blend can influence the energetics, optical window, charge carrier transport, crystalline order and conversion efficiency. In the form of binary blends, the low-bandgap regioregular polymer donor poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl), known as P3HT, is combined with the acceptor PC₆₁BM, an inexpensive fullerene derivative. Two different non-fullerene acceptors (ITIC and eh-IDTBR) are added to this binary blend to form ternary blends. A systematic comparison between binary and ternary systems was carried out as a function of the thermal annealing temperature of organic layers (100 °C and 140 °C). The power conversion efficiency (PCE) is improved due to increased fill factor (FF) and open-circuit voltage (V_oc) for thermal-annealed ternary blends at 140 °C. The transport properties of electrons and holes were investigated in binary and ternary blends following a Space-Charge-Limited Current (SCLC) protocol. A favorable balanced hole–electron mobility is obtained through the incorporation of either ITIC or eh-IDTBR. The charge transport behavior is correlated with the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) morphology deduced from atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact water angle (CWA) measurement and 2D grazing-incidence X-ray diffractometry (2D-GIXRD). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in New Generation Compound Semiconductor Based Photodetectors and Solar Cells)

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