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32 pages, 30148 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Traditional Village Morphological Characteristics and Driving Mechanism from a Rural Sustainability Perspective: Evidence from Jiangsu Province

by Haobing Wang, Yong Shan, Sisi Xia and Jun Cao

Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051302 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

(1) Background: The sustainable development of rural areas has become a critical factor in global economic and social transformation. As an essential part of China’s rural ecological and cultural system, traditional villages are now facing a crisis of yearly decline, and sustainable development [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The sustainable development of rural areas has become a critical factor in global economic and social transformation. As an essential part of China’s rural ecological and cultural system, traditional villages are now facing a crisis of yearly decline, and sustainable development has become a meaningful way to solve the problem. This study utilized morphological indicator analysis and the SDGs as an evaluation framework to reveal the correlation and driving factors between traditional villages’ spatial form and sustainability indicators. From the perspective of the spatial form, this approach has specific reference significance for improving the sustainability of traditional villages. (2) Methods: A framework for detecting the driving factors of rural sustainability based on four dimensions (morphology, environment, economy, and society) was constructed. A geographic information system (GIS) was used to analyze the geographic patterns and morphological indicator characteristics of traditional villages in Jiangsu Province, and GeoDetector was used to analyze the driving mechanisms of the spatial patterns of sustainability in traditional villages, providing the basis for spatial zoning and differentiated policy design for the construction, planning, and management of sustainable villages. (3) Results: ➀ The spatial patterns and morphological characteristics of traditional villages exhibit prominent geographical imbalances and significant cluster cores. ➁ The high-density and low-aspect-ratio rural form in the southern region (where rural industries are developed) promotes good economic sustainability in rural areas but also leads to poor environmental performance. The rural areas in the southwest and north (high-density forest areas) have medium density and a high aspect ratio, and the lack of agricultural space and external connections affects their social performance. The main focus is on poverty reduction and urban cooperation. The central and northern lakeside areas and the eastern coastal areas (important ecological protection areas) have low density and high aspect ratios, which have helped them to achieve excellent environmental performance but also led to contradictions in environmental, economic, and social performance. Maintaining low-density patterns, using clean energy, and protecting terrestrial and underwater biodiversity are essential to the sustainability of the rural environment. The agglomeration of spatial patterns promotes cooperation between rural and urban areas and improves industrial development, contributing to the sustainability of the rural economy. Improving social welfare and agricultural development contributes to the sustainability of rural societies. ➂ The impacts of various factors vary significantly; for example, Life below Water (SDG14), Climate Action (SDG13), and No Poverty (SDG1) are the most prominent, followed by Partnerships for the Goals (SDG17), Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG7), and Recent Work and Economic Growth (SDG8). (4) Conclusions: It is recommended that the government, with the driving mechanisms, divide the spatial management zoning of traditional villages in Jiangsu into three types of policy areas: environmental-oriented, economic-oriented, and social-oriented. Differentiated and targeted suggestions should be proposed to provide a critical decision-making basis for protecting and utilizing traditional villages in Jiangsu and similar provinces, as well as to help promote rural revitalization and sustainable rural construction in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Rural Development: Advances on Rural Digitization and Smart Village Construction)

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16 pages, 4235 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Impurity Gases on the Hydrogen Embrittlement Behavior of Pipeline Steel in High-Pressure H₂ Environments

by Chengshuang Zhou, Hongbin Zhou and Lin Zhang

Materials 2024, 17(9), 2157; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17092157 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

The use of hydrogen-blended natural gas presents an efficacious pathway toward the rapid, large-scale implementation of hydrogen energy, with pipeline transportation being the principal method of conveyance. However, pipeline materials are susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement in high-pressure hydrogen environments. Natural gas contains various [...] Read more.

The use of hydrogen-blended natural gas presents an efficacious pathway toward the rapid, large-scale implementation of hydrogen energy, with pipeline transportation being the principal method of conveyance. However, pipeline materials are susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement in high-pressure hydrogen environments. Natural gas contains various impurity gases that can either exacerbate or mitigate sensitivity to hydrogen embrittlement. In this study, we analyzed the mechanisms through which multiple impurity gases could affect the hydrogen embrittlement behavior of pipeline steel. We examined the effects of O₂ and CO₂ on the hydrogen embrittlement behavior of L360 pipeline steel through a series of fatigue crack growth tests conducted in various environments. We analyzed the fracture surfaces and assessed the fracture mechanisms involved. We discovered that CO₂ promoted the hydrogen embrittlement of the material, whereas O₂ inhibited it. O₂ mitigated the enhancing effect of CO₂ when both gases were mixed with hydrogen. As the fatigue crack growth rate increased, the influence of impurity gases on the hydrogen embrittlement of the material diminished. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)

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31 pages, 6441 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Effective Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian-Lattice Boltzmann Flux Solver Integrated with the Mode Superposition Method for Flutter Prediction

by Tianchi Gong, Feng Wang and Yan Wang

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3939; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093939 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

An arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian lattice Boltzmann flux solver (ALE-LBFS) coupled with the mode superposition method is proposed in this work and applied to study two- and three-dimensional flutter phenomenon on dynamic unstructured meshes. The ALE-LBFS is applied to predict the flow field by using [...] Read more.

An arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian lattice Boltzmann flux solver (ALE-LBFS) coupled with the mode superposition method is proposed in this work and applied to study two- and three-dimensional flutter phenomenon on dynamic unstructured meshes. The ALE-LBFS is applied to predict the flow field by using the vertex-centered finite volume method with an implicit dual time-stepping method. The convective fluxes are evaluated by using lattice Boltzmann solutions of the non-free D1Q4 lattice model and the viscous fluxes are obtained directly. Additional fluxes due to mesh motion are calculated directly by using local conservative variables and mesh velocity. The mode superposition method is used to solve for the dynamic response of solid structures. The exchange of aerodynamic forces and structural motions is achieved through interpolation with the radial basis function. The flow solver and the structural solver are tightly coupled so that the restriction on the physical time step can be removed. In addition, geometric conservation law (GCL) is also applied to guarantee conservation laws. The proposed method is tested through a series of simulations about moving boundaries and fluid–structure interaction problems in 2D and 3D. The present results show good consistency against the experiments and numerical simulations obtained from the literature. It is also shown that the proposed method not only can effectively predict the flutter boundaries in both 2D and 3D cases but can also accurately capture the transonic dip phenomenon. The tight coupling of the ALE-LBFS and the mode superposition method presents an effective and powerful tool for flutter prediction and can be applied to many essential aeronautical problems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Aerospace Science and Engineering)

23 pages, 8382 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Regions of Bovine Adenovirus-3 Protein VII Involved in Interactions with Viral and Cellular Proteins

by Shermila Kulanayake, Faryal Dar and Suresh K. Tikoo

Viruses 2024, 16(5), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050732 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

The L 1 region of bovine adenovirus (BAdV)-3 encodes a multifunctional protein named protein VII. Anti-protein VII sera detected a protein of 26 kDa in transfected or BAdV-3-infected cells, which localizes to nucleus and nucleolus of infected/transfected cells. Analysis of mutant protein VII [...] Read more.

The L 1 region of bovine adenovirus (BAdV)-3 encodes a multifunctional protein named protein VII. Anti-protein VII sera detected a protein of 26 kDa in transfected or BAdV-3-infected cells, which localizes to nucleus and nucleolus of infected/transfected cells. Analysis of mutant protein VII identified four redundant overlapping nuclear/nucleolar localization signals as deletion of all four potential nuclear/nucleolar localization signals localizes protein VII predominantly to the cytoplasm. The nuclear import of protein VII appears to use importin α (α-1), importin-β (β-1) and transportin-3 nuclear transport receptors. In addition, different nuclear transport receptors also require part of protein VII outside nuclear localization sequences for efficient interaction. Proteomic analysis of protein complexes purified from recombinant BAdV-3 expressing protein VII containing Strep Tag II identified potential viral and cellular proteins interacting with protein VII. Here, we confirm that protein VII interacts with IVa2 and protein VIII in BAdV-3-infected cells. Moreover, amino acids 91–101 and 126–137, parts of non-conserved region of protein VII, are required for interaction with IVa2 and protein VIII, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Viruses)

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25 pages, 485 KiB

Open AccessReview

An In-Depth Insight into the Profile, Mechanisms, Functions, and Transfer of Essential Amino Acids from Mulberry Leaves to Silkworm Bombyx mori L. Pupae and Fish

by Mihaela Hăbeanu, Anca Gheorghe, Georgeta Dinita and Teodor Mihalcea

Insects 2024, 15(5), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15050332 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

The silkworm Bombyx mori, the second most varied group of insects, is a fascinating insect that belongs to the Lepidoptera species. We aimed to deepen our knowledge about the composition and significance of amino acids (AA) from the sericulture chain to fish. AAs [...] Read more.

The silkworm Bombyx mori, the second most varied group of insects, is a fascinating insect that belongs to the Lepidoptera species. We aimed to deepen our knowledge about the composition and significance of amino acids (AA) from the sericulture chain to fish. AAs are the most prevalent molecules throughout the growth process of silkworms. We described AAs classification, occurrence, metabolism, and functions. Online datasets revealed that the essential AAs (EAA) level in fish meal and silkworm pupae (SWP) is comparable. SWP have a high content of methionine and lysine, which are the principal limiting AAs in fish diets, indicating that SWP have nutritional potential to be added to fish diets. Additionally, an overview of the data analyzed displays that SWP have a higher protein efficiency ratio than fish meal, the classical protein-rich source (>1.19 times), and compared to soybean meal, the second-most preferred source of protein in aquaculture (>2.08 times), indicating that SWP can be considered effective for animal feeding. In this study, we provide an overview of the current knowledge concerning AAs, paying special emphasis to EAAs and explaining, to some extent, certain mechanisms and functions of these compounds, from mulberry leaves to larvae–pupae and fish diets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology of Farmed Insects)

15 pages, 3799 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimize Electron Beam Energy toward In Situ Imaging of Thick Frozen Bio-Samples with Nanometer Resolution Using MeV-STEM

by Xi Yang, Liguo Wang, Victor Smaluk and Timur Shaftan

Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090803 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

To optimize electron energy for in situ imaging of large biological samples up to 10 μm in thickness with nanoscale resolutions, we implemented an analytical model based on elastic and inelastic characteristic angles. This model has been benchmarked by Monte Carlo simulations and [...] Read more.

To optimize electron energy for in situ imaging of large biological samples up to 10 μm in thickness with nanoscale resolutions, we implemented an analytical model based on elastic and inelastic characteristic angles. This model has been benchmarked by Monte Carlo simulations and can be used to predict the transverse beam size broadening as a function of electron energy while the probe beam traverses through the sample. As a result, the optimal choice of the electron beam energy can be realized. In addition, the impact of the dose-limited resolution was analysed. While the sample thickness is less than 10 μm, there exists an optimal electron beam energy below 10 MeV regarding a specific sample thickness. However, for samples thicker than 10 μm, the optimal beam energy is 10 MeV or higher depending on the sample thickness, and the ultimate resolution could become worse with the increase in the sample thickness. Moreover, a MeV-STEM column based on a two-stage lens system can be applied to reduce the beam size from one micron at aperture to one nanometre at the sample with the energy tuning range from 3 to 10 MeV. In conjunction with the state-of-the-art ultralow emittance electron source that we recently implemented, the maximum size of an electron beam when it traverses through an up to 10 μm thick bio-sample can be kept less than

10 n m

. This is a critical step toward the in situ imaging of large, thick biological samples with nanometer resolution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Interaction of Electron Phenomena on the Mesoscopic Scale)

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16 pages, 1363 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unified Sufficient Conditions for Predefined-Time Stability of Non-Linear Systems and Its Standard Controller Design

by Bing Xiao, Haichao Zhang, Shijie Zhao, Zhaoyue Chen and Lu Cao

Actuators 2024, 13(5), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/act13050173 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a unified Lyapunov-based predefined-time stability theorem that includes three sufficient conditions. The standard theoretical analysis method for achieving predefined-time stability of non-linear systems using this theorem is provided within the framework of Lyapunov theory. The developed Lyapunov-based theorem facilitates the [...] Read more.

This paper presents a unified Lyapunov-based predefined-time stability theorem that includes three sufficient conditions. The standard theoretical analysis method for achieving predefined-time stability of non-linear systems using this theorem is provided within the framework of Lyapunov theory. The developed Lyapunov-based theorem facilitates the establishment of equivalence between the existing Lyapunov theorems concerning predefined-time stability. Furthermore, when the presented sufficient conditions are relaxed, the predefined-time stability conclusion for non-linear systems degenerates into a finite-time one. Consequently, a standard non-singular sliding mode control framework based on the unified Lyapunov-based theorem is developed for a Lagrangian system to ensure its predefined-time stability. Exemplary numerical simulation results are subsequently given, in order to illustrate the convergence behavior of the system states and confirm that the controlled systems are predefined-time stable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Control Systems)

22 pages, 2777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network with Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm-Based Feature Selection for Cardiovascular Disease Prediction

by Fahad A. Alghamdi, Haitham Almanaseer, Ghaith Jaradat, Ashraf Jaradat, Mutasem K. Alsmadi, Sana Jawarneh, Abdullah S. Almurayh, Jehad Alqurni and Hayat Alfagham

Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2024, 6(2), 987-1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/make6020046 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

In the healthcare field, diagnosing disease is the most concerning issue. Various diseases including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) significantly influence illness or death. On the other hand, early and precise diagnosis of CVDs can decrease chances of death, resulting in a better and healthier [...] Read more.

In the healthcare field, diagnosing disease is the most concerning issue. Various diseases including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) significantly influence illness or death. On the other hand, early and precise diagnosis of CVDs can decrease chances of death, resulting in a better and healthier life for patients. Researchers have used traditional machine learning (ML) techniques for CVD prediction and classification. However, many of them are inaccurate and time-consuming due to the unavailability of quality data including imbalanced samples, inefficient data preprocessing, and the existing selection criteria. These factors lead to an overfitting or bias issue towards a certain class label in the prediction model. Therefore, an intelligent system is needed which can accurately diagnose CVDs. We proposed an automated ML model for various kinds of CVD prediction and classification. Our prediction model consists of multiple steps. Firstly, a benchmark dataset is preprocessed using filter techniques. Secondly, a novel arithmetic optimization algorithm is implemented as a feature selection technique to select the best subset of features that influence the accuracy of the prediction model. Thirdly, a classification task is implemented using a multilayer perceptron neural network to classify the instances of the dataset into two class labels, determining whether they have a CVD or not. The proposed ML model is trained on the preprocessed data and then tested and validated. Furthermore, for the comparative analysis of the model, various performance evaluation metrics are calculated including overall accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. As a result, it has been observed that the proposed prediction model can achieve 88.89% accuracy, which is the highest in a comparison with the traditional ML techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Learning)

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25 pages, 479 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Functional Feed Additives in Enhancing Aquaculture Sustainability

by Abigail John Onomu and Grace Emily Okuthe

Fishes 2024, 9(5), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9050167 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Aquaculture serves as a source of protein and livelihood and is an alternative to capture fisheries, thereby reducing pressure on the wild. However, aquaculture tends to be limited by sustainability issues, which include overdependency on fishmeal, the high cost associated with fishmeal, the [...] Read more.

Aquaculture serves as a source of protein and livelihood and is an alternative to capture fisheries, thereby reducing pressure on the wild. However, aquaculture tends to be limited by sustainability issues, which include overdependency on fishmeal, the high cost associated with fishmeal, the environmental impact of aquaculture activities, which may be detrimental to aquatic lives and the environment, and the use of antibiotics to treat diseases, which may have an adverse effect in their host or the environment. Efforts are being made toward attaining practical ways to enhance aquaculture sustainability. One such effort is using functional feed additives in feed formulation. Functional feed additives are dietary ingredients incorporated in feed formulations, not only for the usual provision of basic nutritional requirements as offered by traditional feed but also for growth and health enhancement ; environmental and economic gain. This review emphasizes the importance of incorporating functional feed additives such as probiotics, prebiotics, symbiotics, and phytogenics. This study evaluates and presents holistic information on functional additives, their roles in enhancing aquaculture sustainability, and the challenges encountered in their application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feed Additives in Aquaculture)

15 pages, 5755 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anthocyanin of Black Highland Barley Alleviates H₂O₂-Induced Cardiomyocyte Injury and Myocardial Infarction via Activating the Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog/Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/Protein Kinase B Pathway

by Zhendong Liu, Senbiao Shu, Simin Li, Pai Peng, Ying Zhang, Zhaohua Li and Wenhan Wang

Foods 2024, 13(9), 1417; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13091417 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents a substantial global health challenge, with its impact on mortality and morbidity rates surpassing that of cancer. The present study was designed to explore the cardioprotective properties of anthocyanin (ACN), a compound derived from black barley, against oxidative stress-induced [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents a substantial global health challenge, with its impact on mortality and morbidity rates surpassing that of cancer. The present study was designed to explore the cardioprotective properties of anthocyanin (ACN), a compound derived from black barley, against oxidative stress-induced damage in myocardial cells and to uncover the molecular mechanisms at play. Utilizing both in vitro and in vivo experimental models, our findings indicate that ACN notably reduced cell damage caused by oxidative stress and effectively prevented apoptosis. High-throughput RNA sequencing analysis has shed light on the mechanism by which ACN achieves its antioxidative stress effects, implicating the PTEN-Akt signaling pathway. ACN was found to modulate PTEN expression levels, which in turn influences the Akt pathway, leading to a reduction in apoptotic processes. This novel insight lays the groundwork for the potential clinical utilization of ACN in the management of CVD. While this study has shed light on some of the functions of ACN, it is important to recognize that natural compounds often interact with multiple molecular targets and engage in intricate signaling cascades. Future research endeavors will concentrate on further elucidating the regulatory mechanisms by which ACN influences PTEN expression, with the goal of enhancing our comprehension and expanding the therapeutic potential of ACN in the treatment of cardiovascular conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutraceuticals, Functional Foods, and Novel Foods)

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22 pages, 440 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Investigation of Circular Fashion: Antecedents of Consumer Willingness to Rent Clothes Online

by Aistė Dovalienė and Leja Salciute

Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3862; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093862 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Circular fashion has gained attention among practitioners and academics. We further contribute to this debate by investigating leasing in the context of rented online clothing in greater depth. First, we conduct a qualitative study and identify several themes important to individuals when renting [...] Read more.

Circular fashion has gained attention among practitioners and academics. We further contribute to this debate by investigating leasing in the context of rented online clothing in greater depth. First, we conduct a qualitative study and identify several themes important to individuals when renting clothing online. The findings are as follows: social representation, green value, familiarity and innovativeness. Several categories emerged from the interviews with the respondents in relation to social representation: use of technology, feeling good when renting clothing online and renting clothing online as a necessity. Familiarity factors relate to circular fashion’s role in reducing perceived risks associated with a relatively new service in the market. Green value perceptions have emerged among respondents that reflect a growing environmental consciousness. Second, based on the initial qualitative findings, we introduce an ad-hoc theoretical model and put forward propositions. Our theoretical model emphasises the role of four antecedents (i.e., social representation, green value, familiarity and innovativeness) when influencing consumer willingness to rent clothing online and a shift towards circular consumption. We develop theoretical propositions and provide recommendations to marketing managers and public policy makers regarding how to encourage a change towards circular consumption behaviour among individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Consumption and Circular Economy)

16 pages, 646 KiB

Open AccessReview

How Immunotherapy Has Redefined the Treatment Paradigm of Metastatic or Locally Advanced Muscle-Invasive Urothelial Bladder Carcinoma

by Mathieu Larroquette, Félix Lefort, Charlotte Domblides, Luc Héraudet, Grégoire Robert, Alain Ravaud and Marine Gross-Goupil

Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1780; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091780 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

In the past decade, the therapeutic arsenal for metastatic bladder cancer has expanded considerably, with the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), antibody–drug conjugates such as enfortumab vedotin, and anti-fibroblast growth factor receptor agents. Clinical trials evaluating ICIs as neoadjuvants, adjuvants, or first- [...] Read more.

In the past decade, the therapeutic arsenal for metastatic bladder cancer has expanded considerably, with the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), antibody–drug conjugates such as enfortumab vedotin, and anti-fibroblast growth factor receptor agents. Clinical trials evaluating ICIs as neoadjuvants, adjuvants, or first- or second-line treatments have produced conflicting results. However, first-line therapeutic strategies have been redefined by the recent publication of results from two clinical trials: CheckMate-901, which demonstrated the superiority of combined treatment with nivolumab and chemotherapy in extending overall survival, and EV-302, which demonstrated that combined treatment with pembrolizumab and enfortumab vedotin reduced the risk of death by 53%. In this review, we discuss the role of ICIs, alone or in combination, in bladder cancer management in the metastatic and adjuvant settings in 2024, considering the latest published trials. The potential role of ICIs as neoadjuvants is also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Urologic Cancers)

12 pages, 7888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combined Endoscopic Endonasal Transclival and Contralateral Transmaxillary Approach to the Petrous Apex and the Petroclival Synchondrosis: Working “Around the Corner” of the Internal Carotid Artery—Quantitative Anatomical Study and Clinical Applications

by Carmine Antonio Donofrio, Francesco Corrivetti, Lucia Riccio, Sergio Corvino, Iacopo Dallan, Antonio Fioravanti and Matteo de Notaris

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2713; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092713 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

The endoscopic contralateral transmaxillary (CTM) approach has been proposed as a potential route to widen the corridor posterolateral to the internal carotid artery (ICA). In this study, we first refined the surgical technique of a combined multiportal endoscopic endonasal transclival (EETC) and CTM [...] Read more.

The endoscopic contralateral transmaxillary (CTM) approach has been proposed as a potential route to widen the corridor posterolateral to the internal carotid artery (ICA). In this study, we first refined the surgical technique of a combined multiportal endoscopic endonasal transclival (EETC) and CTM approach to the petrous apex (PA) and petroclival synchondrosis (PCS) in the dissection laboratory, and then validated its applications in a preliminary surgical series. The combined EETC and CTM approach was performed on three cadaver specimens based on four surgical steps: (1) the nasal, (2) the clival, (3) the maxillary and (4) the petrosal phases. The CTM provided a “head-on trajectory” to the PA and PCS and a short distance to the surgical field considerably furthering surgical maneuverability. The best operative set-up was achieved by introducing angled optics via the endonasal route and operative instruments via the transmaxillary corridor exploiting the advantages of a non-coaxial multiportal surgery. Clinical applications of the combined EETC and CTM approach were reported in three cases, a clival chordoma and two giant pituitary adenomas. The present translational study explores the safety and feasibility of a combined multiportal EETC and CTM approach to access the petroclival region though different corridors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art—Treatment of Skull Base Diseases: Volume II)

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21 pages, 20225 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Dissection of Diverse Seed Coat Patterns in Cowpea through a Comprehensive GWAS Approach

by Haizheng Xiong, Yilin Chen, Waltram Ravelombola, Beiquan Mou, Xiaolun Sun, Qingyang Zhang, Yiting Xiao, Yang Tian, Qun Luo, Ibtisam Alatawi, Kenani Edward Chiwina, Hanan Mohammedsaeed Alkabkabi and Ainong Shi

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1275; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091275 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the genetic determinants of seed coat color and pattern variations in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), employing a genome-wide association approach. Analyzing a mapping panel of 296 cowpea varieties with 110,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we focused on eight unique [...] Read more.

This study investigates the genetic determinants of seed coat color and pattern variations in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), employing a genome-wide association approach. Analyzing a mapping panel of 296 cowpea varieties with 110,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we focused on eight unique coat patterns: (1) Red and (2) Cream seed; (3) White and (4) Brown/Tan seed coat; (5) Pink, (6) Black, (7) Browneye and (8) Red/Brown Holstein. Across six GWAS models (GLM, SRM, MLM, MLMM, FarmCPU from GAPIT3, and TASSEL5), 13 significant SNP markers were identified and led to the discovery of 23 candidate genes. Among these, four specific genes may play a direct role in determining seed coat pigment. These findings lay a foundational basis for future breeding programs aimed at creating cowpea varieties aligned with consumer preferences and market requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity of Germplasm Resources in Cereals and Legumes)

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17 pages, 3201 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrasound-Assisted Maillard Conjugation of Yeast Protein Hydrolysate with Polysaccharides for Encapsulating the Anthocyanins from Aronia

by Loredana Dumitrașcu, Mihaela Brumă (Călin), Mihaela Turturică, Elena Enachi, Alina Mihaela Cantaragiu Ceoromila and Iuliana Aprodu

Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050570 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Valorisation of food by-products, like spent brewer’s yeast and fruit pomaces, represents an important strategy for contributing to sustainable food production. The aims of this study were to obtain Maillard conjugates based on spent yeast protein hydrolysate (SYH) with dextran (D) or maltodextrin [...] Read more.

Valorisation of food by-products, like spent brewer’s yeast and fruit pomaces, represents an important strategy for contributing to sustainable food production. The aims of this study were to obtain Maillard conjugates based on spent yeast protein hydrolysate (SYH) with dextran (D) or maltodextrin (MD) by means of ultrasound treatment and to use them for developing encapsulation systems for the anthocyanins from aronia pomace. The ultrasound-assisted Maillard conjugation promoted the increase of antioxidant activity by about 50% compared to conventional heating and SYH, and was not dependent on the polysaccharide type. The ability of the conjugates to act as wall material for encapsulating various biologically active compounds was tested via a freeze-drying method. The retention efficiency ranged between 58.25 ± 0.38%–65.25 ± 2.21%, while encapsulation efficiency varied from 67.09 ± 2.26% to 88.72 ± 0.33%, indicating the strong effect of the carrier material used for encapsulation. The addition of the hydrolysed yeast cell wall played a positive effect on the encapsulation efficiency of anthocyanins when used in combination with the SYH:MD conjugates. On the other hand, the stability of anthocyanins during storage, as well as their bioavailability during gastrointestinal digestion, were higher when using the SYH:D conjugate. The study showed that hydrolysis combined with the ultrasound-assisted Maillard reaction has a great potential for the valorisation of spent brewer’s yeast as delivery material for the encapsulation of bioactive compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agri-Food Wastes as Natural Source of Bioactive Antioxidants Vol. III)

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16 pages, 1976 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Amplification of Hippo Signaling Pathway Genes Is Governed and Implicated in the Serous Subtype-Specific Ovarian Carcino-Genesis

by Karthik Balakrishnan, Yuanhong Chen and Jixin Dong

Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1781; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091781 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Among women, ovarian cancer ranks as the fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths. This study examined the impact of Hippo signaling pathway on ovarian carcinogenesis. Therefore, the signatures related to Hippo signaling pathway were derived from the molecular signatures database (MSigDB) and [...] Read more.

Among women, ovarian cancer ranks as the fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths. This study examined the impact of Hippo signaling pathway on ovarian carcinogenesis. Therefore, the signatures related to Hippo signaling pathway were derived from the molecular signatures database (MSigDB) and were used for further analysis. The Z score-based pathway activation scoring method was employed to investigate the expression patterns of these signatures in the mRNA expression profiles of ovarian cancer cohorts. Compared to other subtype tumors, the results of this study show that the Hippo signaling pathway signatures are dysregulated prominently in serous subtype-specific ovarian carcinogenesis. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve-based results of the Hippo gene set, yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1), and mammalian sterile 20-like kinases 1 (MST1) genes can predict the serous subtype tumors by higher specificity and sensitivity with significant areas under the curve values also further reconfirmed these signaling dysregulations. Moreover, these gene sets were studied further for mutation analysis in the profile of high-grade serous ovarian adenocarcinoma in the cBioPortal database. The OncoPrint results reveal that these Hippo signaling pathway genes are amplified highly during the grade three and stage third or fourth of serous type ovarian tumors. In addition, the results of the Dependency Map (DepMap) plot also clearly show that these genes are amplified significantly across the ovarian cancer cell lines. Finally, overall survival (OS) curve plot investigations also revealed that these gene expressions show poor survival patterns linked to highly expressed conditions in serous subtypes of ovarian cancer patients with significant p-values (p < 0.05). Thus, the current finding would help to develop the targeted therapies treatment for serous subtype ovarian carcinogenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Oncology: State-of-the-Art Research in the USA)

26 pages, 4993 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Fuel Economy and Energy Efficiency of Train Cab Climate Systems, Considering Air Recirculation Modes

by Ivan Panfilov, Alexey N. Beskopylny and Besarion Meskhi

Energies 2024, 17(9), 2224; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092224 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Current developments in vehicles have generated great interest in the research and optimization of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems as a factor to reduce fuel consumption. One of the key trends for finding solutions is the intensive development of electric transport [...] Read more.

Current developments in vehicles have generated great interest in the research and optimization of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems as a factor to reduce fuel consumption. One of the key trends for finding solutions is the intensive development of electric transport and, consequently, additional requirements for reducing energy consumption and modifying climate systems. Of particular interest is the optimal functioning of comfort and life support systems during air recirculation, i.e., when there is a complete or partial absence of outside air supply, in particular to reduce energy consumption or when the environment is polluted. This work examines numerical models of airfields (temperature, speed, and humidity) and also focuses on the concentration of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the cabin, which is a critical factor for ensuring the health of the driver and passengers. To build a mathematical model, the Navier–Stokes equations with energy, continuity, and diffusion equations are used to simulate the diffusion of gases and air humidity. In the Ansys Fluent finite volume analysis package, the model is solved numerically using averaged RANS equations and k-ω turbulence models. The cabin of a mainline locomotive with two drivers, taking into account their breathing, is used as a transport model. The problem was solved in a nonstationary formulation for the design scenario of summer and winter, the time of stabilization of the fields was found, and graphs were constructed for different points in time. A comparative analysis of the uniformity of fields along the height of the cabin was carried out with different locations of deflectors, and optimal configurations were found. Energy efficiency values of the climate system operation in recirculation operating modes were obtained. A qualitative assessment of the driver’s blowing directions under different circulation and recirculation modes is given from the point of view of the concentration of carbon dioxide in the breathing area. The proposed solution makes it possible to reduce electricity consumption from 3.1 kW to 0.6 kW and in winter mode from 11.6 kW to 3.9 kW and save up to 1.5 L/h of fuel. The conducted research can be used to develop modern energy-efficient and safe systems for providing comfortable climate conditions for drivers and passengers of various types of transport. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section B: Energy and Environment)

18 pages, 558 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Last but Not the Least Piece of Marine Debris Management: Decoding Factors in Consumers’ Intentions to Purchase Recycled Marine Debris Products

by Chung-Ling Chen, Xiang-Nong Jian and Wen-Hao Jiang

Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3869; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093869 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

With a phenomenal amount of marine debris being retrieved from the coast and sea, an initiative to engage in marine debris recycling, particularly of plastic debris, has been on the governmental agenda in Taiwan in recent years. Consumers purchasing products made from marine [...] Read more.

With a phenomenal amount of marine debris being retrieved from the coast and sea, an initiative to engage in marine debris recycling, particularly of plastic debris, has been on the governmental agenda in Taiwan in recent years. Consumers purchasing products made from marine debris is a critical driver behind this initiative. It is therefore important to understand the factors influencing consumers’ purchase intentions towards these products. By employing the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this paper aims to decode the factors and thereby infer potential measures to enhance consumers’ purchase intentions for these specific products in Taiwan, where recycling marine debris is at the beginning stage. By conducting a questionnaire survey, the study collected a total of 392 valid samples and found that a high percentage of respondents had not heard of marine debris labels as well as having never bought products made from marine debris. In addition, by testing the hypotheses using binary logit regression, the study found that ‘environmental attitude’, ‘perceived price’, ‘availability’, and ‘marine debris label’ were the major factors that significantly influenced consumers’ intentions to purchase these products. With a view to increasing market penetration of these products, this paper highlights the need to strengthen environmental education, subsidize manufacturers in the production of products, promote labels and enhance product availability, and enhance public participation in marine conservation activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waste Recycling and Circular Economy: From Trash to Treasure)

15 pages, 639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Chitinases and Neurofilament Light Chain as Biomarkers for Adult-Onset Leukodystrophies

by Paulo de Lima Serrano, Thaiane de Paulo Varollo Rodrigues, Leslyê Donato Pinto, Indiara Correia Pereira, Igor Braga Farias, Renan Brandão Rambaldi Cavalheiro, Patrícia Marques Mendes, Kaliny Oliveira Peixoto, João Paulo Barile, Daniel Delgado Seneor, Eduardo Gleitzmann Correa Silva, Acary Souza Bulle Oliveira, Wladimir Bocca Vieira de Rezende Pinto and Paulo Sgobbi

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(5), 4309-4323; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46050262 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Leukodystrophies represent a large and complex group of inherited disorders affecting the white matter of the central nervous system. Adult-onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP) is a rare leukodystrophy which still needs the proper identification of diagnostic, prognostic, and monitoring [...] Read more.

Leukodystrophies represent a large and complex group of inherited disorders affecting the white matter of the central nervous system. Adult-onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP) is a rare leukodystrophy which still needs the proper identification of diagnostic, prognostic, and monitoring biomarkers. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic and prognostic value of chitinases and neurofilament light chain as biomarkers for ALSP. A cross-sectional study was performed to analyze cerebrospinal fluid levels of chitinases (chitotriosidase and chitinase 3-like 2) and neurofilament light chain in five different groups: (i) normal health individuals; (ii) patients with definitive diagnosis of ALSP and genetic confirmation; (iii) asymptomatic patients with CSF1R variants; (iv) patients with other adult-onset leukodystrophies; and (v) patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (external control group). Chitinase levels showed a statistical correlation with clinical assessment parameters in ALSP patients. Chitinase levels were also distinct between ALSP and the other leukodystrophies. Significant differences were noted in the levels of chitinases and neurofilament light chain comparing symptomatic (ALSP) and asymptomatic individuals with CSF1R variants. This study is the first to establish chitinases as a potential biomarker for ALSP and confirms neurofilament light chain as a good biomarker for primary microgliopathies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Medicine)

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12 pages, 487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recurrence Patterns after Radiotherapy for Glioblastoma with [(11)C]methionine Positron Emission Tomography-Guided Irradiation for Target Volume Optimization

by Zsanett Debreczeni-Máté, Imre Törő, Mihaly Simon, Kristof Gál, Marton Barabás, David Sipos and Arpad Kovács

Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 964; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090964 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

¹¹C methionine (¹¹C-MET) is increasingly being used in addition to contrast-enhanced MRI to plan for radiotherapy of patients with glioblastomas. This study aimed to assess the recurrence pattern quantitatively. Glioblastoma patients undergoing 11C-MET PET examination before primary radiotherapy from 2018 [...] Read more.

¹¹C methionine (¹¹C-MET) is increasingly being used in addition to contrast-enhanced MRI to plan for radiotherapy of patients with glioblastomas. This study aimed to assess the recurrence pattern quantitatively. Glioblastoma patients undergoing 11C-MET PET examination before primary radiotherapy from 2018 to 2023 were included in the analysis. A clinical target volume was manually created and fused with MRI-based gross tumor volumes and MET PET-based biological target volume. The recurrence was noted as an area of contrast enhancement on the first MRI scan, which showed progression. The recurrent tumor was identified on the radiological MR images in terms of recurrent tumor volume, and recurrences were classified as central, in-field, marginal, or ex-field tumors. We then compared the MET-PET-defined biological target volume with the MRI-defined recurrent tumor volume regarding spatial overlap (the Dice coefficient) and the Hausdorff distance. Most recurrences occurred locally within the primary tumor area (64.8%). The mean Hausdorff distance was 39.4 mm (SD 32.25), and the mean Dice coefficient was 0.30 (SD 0.22). In patients with glioblastoma, the analysis of the recurrence pattern has been mainly based on FET-PET. Our study confirms that the recurrence pattern after gross tumor volume-based treatment contoured by MET-PET is consistent with the FET-PET-based treatment described in the literature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)

22 pages, 11688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Research on Deep Learning-Driven Dimensionality Reduction and Strain Prediction Techniques Based on Flight Parameter Data

by Wenbo Huang, Rui Wang, Mengchuang Zhang and Zhiping Yin

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3938; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093938 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Loads and strains in critical areas play a crucial role in aircraft structural health monitoring, the tracking of individual aircraft lifespans, and the compilation of load spectra. Direct measurement of actual flight loads presents challenges. This process typically involves using load-strain stiffness matrices, [...] Read more.

Loads and strains in critical areas play a crucial role in aircraft structural health monitoring, the tracking of individual aircraft lifespans, and the compilation of load spectra. Direct measurement of actual flight loads presents challenges. This process typically involves using load-strain stiffness matrices, derived from ground calibration tests, to map measured flight parameters to loads at critical locations. Presently, deep learning neural network methods are rapidly developing, offering new perspectives for this task. This paper explores the potential of deep learning models in predicting flight parameter loads and strains, integrating the methods of flight parameter preprocessing techniques, flight maneuver recognition (FMR), virtual ground calibration tests for wings, dimensionality reduction of flight data through Autoencoder (AE) network models, and the application of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network models to predict strains. These efforts contribute to the prediction of strains in critical areas based on flight parameters, thereby enabling real-time assessment of aircraft damage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Aerospace Science and Engineering)

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26 pages, 1577 KiB

Open AccessReview

Neoantigen Identification and Dendritic Cell-Based Vaccines for Lung Cancer Immunotherapy

by Komal Kumari, Amarnath Singh, Archana Chaudhary, Rakesh Kumar Singh, Asheesh Shanker, Vinay Kumar and Rizwanul Haque

Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050498 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

Immunotherapies can treat many cancers, including difficult-to-treat cases such as lung cancer. Due to its tolerability, long-lasting therapeutic responses, and efficacy in a wide spectrum of patients, immunotherapy can also help to treat lung cancer, which has few treatment choices. Tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) [...] Read more.

Immunotherapies can treat many cancers, including difficult-to-treat cases such as lung cancer. Due to its tolerability, long-lasting therapeutic responses, and efficacy in a wide spectrum of patients, immunotherapy can also help to treat lung cancer, which has few treatment choices. Tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) for cancer vaccinations and T-cell therapies are difficult to discover. Neoantigens (NeoAgs) from genetic mutations, irregular RNA splicing, protein changes, or viral genetic sequences in tumor cells provide a solution. NeoAgs, unlike TSAs, are non-self and can cause an immunological response. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics can swiftly detect and forecast tumor-specific NeoAgs. Highly immunogenic NeoAgs provide personalized or generalized cancer immunotherapies. Dendritic cells (DCs), which originate and regulate T-cell responses, are widely studied potential immunotherapeutic therapies for lung cancer and other cancers. DC vaccines are stable, reliable, and safe in clinical trials. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the current status, limitations, and prospective clinical applications of DC vaccines, as well as the identification and selection of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II genes for NeoAgs. Our goal is to explain DC biology and activate DC manipulation to help researchers create extremely potent cancer vaccines for patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Immunology)

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26 pages, 3619 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heavy Metal-Based Fungicides Alter the Chemical Fractions of Cu, Zn, and Mn in Vineyards in Southern Brazil

by Guilherme Wilbert Ferreira, Samya Uchoa Bordallo, Edenilson Meyer, Zayne Valéria Santos Duarte, Josué Klein Schmitt, Luana Paula Garlet, Allan Augusto Kokkonen da Silva, Jean Michel Moura-Bueno, George Wellington Bastos de Melo, Gustavo Brunetto, Tales Tiecher and Cledimar Rogério Lourenzi

Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 969; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050969 (registering DOI) - 05 May 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate Cu, Zn, and Mn fractions in vineyard soils in two important wine-growing regions in Latin America, which have soils with different soil organic matter (SOM) and clay contents. Soils were collected from vineyards aged 35, 37, and 39 [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate Cu, Zn, and Mn fractions in vineyard soils in two important wine-growing regions in Latin America, which have soils with different soil organic matter (SOM) and clay contents. Soils were collected from vineyards aged 35, 37, and 39 years (Serra Gaúcha) and 13, 19, and 36 years (Campanha Gaúcha). In each region, soils were collected from a non-anthropized area, and in the oldest vineyards, the collection was conducted on and between the planting lines. The available and total Cu, Zn, and Mn contents were analyzed in addition to the chemical fractions. The ΔCu, ΔZn, and ΔMn were also calculated by subtracting the contents of each fraction of the vineyards from the reference areas. The use of fungicides promotes increased metal contents in vineyard soils. In soils with high SOM contents, Cu tended to increase in the organic fraction in surface and depth. In contrast, Zn increased in the residual fraction, and Mn increased in most bioavailable fractions. Cu and Zn increased their contents in soils with low SOM and clay contents in the organic and mineral fractions. Mn accumulated in the mineral and residual fractions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Pollution and Remediation in Sustainable Agriculture)

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