The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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19 pages, 597 KiB  
Article
Redefining the Communication Dynamics in Bolsonaro’s Brazil: Media Consumption and Political Preferences
by Joao Feres Junior, Bruno Marques Schaefer and Eduardo Barbabela
Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(5), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13050245 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this article, we contend that understanding Brazil’s current communicative landscape requires a closer examination of the relevance of legacy media outlets, challenging the widely accepted “traditional media bypass” thesis, which posits that social media platforms have overtaken traditional media as the primary [...] Read more.
In this article, we contend that understanding Brazil’s current communicative landscape requires a closer examination of the relevance of legacy media outlets, challenging the widely accepted “traditional media bypass” thesis, which posits that social media platforms have overtaken traditional media as the primary influencers of political discourse, an argument often used to explain the rise of extreme-right ideologies across different national contexts. In order to test the association between voting preferences and the use of different types of media, we employ logistic regression analysis using data from a recent survey that includes numerous questions about the information and media consumption habits of Brazilian voters. Our findings highlight that legacy media, particularly broadcast TV channels like Globo, Record, and SBT, remain dominant in Brazil as sources of political information. Contrary to the bypass thesis, Bolsonaro’s supporters, while favoring social media, also consume significant amounts of legacy media. Analysis reveals stark differences in media preferences between the supporters of different political candidates, challenging the notion of an exclusive reliance on social media by right-wing supporters. The data also indicate nuanced media consumption habits, such as a preference for certain TV channels and fact-checking behaviors, underscoring the complex interplay between legacy and social media. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rethinking and Analyzing Political Communication in the Digital Era)
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16 pages, 250 KiB  
Article
Performance, Art, Institutions and Interdisciplinarity
by Rob Gawthrop
Arts 2024, 13(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/arts13030079 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
How have funding, art education, and politics affected the development of performance and interdisciplinary art? In England in particular, performance as an experimental and radical art practice developed largely from underground activities, political action and a range of art forms. Funding bodies, colleges [...] Read more.
How have funding, art education, and politics affected the development of performance and interdisciplinary art? In England in particular, performance as an experimental and radical art practice developed largely from underground activities, political action and a range of art forms. Funding bodies, colleges and art institutions eventually accommodated, albeit to a limited extent, this activity. As financial circumstances were sometimes difficult, artists often provided their own support structures and organisations. Some of these became established as they became successful. Performance art split from the theatrical and became defined as live art. In more recent times, conditions shifted again, and critical, experimental, or avant-garde theatre, film, music, etc., found refuge within contemporary art. Performance however, became increasingly confined and restricted by: the regulatory and academic requirements within universities; the need for evidence for some form of public or social purpose by funding bodies; and the increasingly hostile social and political circumstances. This research draws partly from personal experience and reflects on cultural conditions since the 1970s. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Art and Performance)
16 pages, 2541 KiB  
Article
Study on Labor Productivity Improvement Based on Situational Awareness and Improved Value Stream Mapping
by Lixuan Jiang, Hongying Shen and Jinhua Zhang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1253; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051253 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study addresses the issue of poor construction labor productivity, exploring the process and methodology for increasing construction workers’ participation in labor productivity improvement, as well as a situational awareness (SA) development approach for construction workers based on lean construction (LC). A framework [...] Read more.
This study addresses the issue of poor construction labor productivity, exploring the process and methodology for increasing construction workers’ participation in labor productivity improvement, as well as a situational awareness (SA) development approach for construction workers based on lean construction (LC). A framework for enhancing labor productivity through SA has been developed. A case study approach is utilized to describe the LC improvement process, which includes enhancing construction workers’ SA for waste minimization and process optimization and engaging them in LC with improved value stream mapping (VSM). The labor productivity measurement approach, combined with VSM, is used to evaluate the labor productivity improvement with labor productivity improvement rate, resource efficiency, and flow efficiency. The results demonstrate that the labor productivity of the case project has increased by 24.07%, with 11.54% contributing resource efficiency and 88.46% contributing flow efficiency, indicating a greater increase in flow efficiency. This study fills a research gap in terms of the combination of construction workers’ SA enhancement and the involvement of LC practices to boost labor productivity. Furthermore, this study proposes an SA development approach based on LC at three levels: waste perception, VSM implementation, and labor productivity improvement assessment. This provides new perspectives for leveraging construction workers’ SA to increase labor productivity. The improved VSM approach and labor productivity measurements provide an operationalization of workers’ participation in continuous improvement. This research is of great practical relevance for augmenting the competencies of construction laborers and inspiring them to engage in labor productivity enhancement. Full article
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30 pages, 7217 KiB  
Article
Optimal Scheduling of Electricity and Carbon in Multi-Park Integrated Energy Systems
by Kun Li, Yulong Ying, Xiangyu Yu and Jingchao Li
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2119; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092119 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
In order to maximize the utilization efficiency of renewable energy resources and reduce carbon costs in multi-park integrated energy systems (MIESs), this paper proposes an electricity–carbon energy scheduling method for MIESs, where a electricity–carbon joint trading market is established to allow energy interactions [...] Read more.
In order to maximize the utilization efficiency of renewable energy resources and reduce carbon costs in multi-park integrated energy systems (MIESs), this paper proposes an electricity–carbon energy scheduling method for MIESs, where a electricity–carbon joint trading market is established to allow energy interactions between IESs so as to satisfy their energy deficiencies and surpluses. Simultaneously, through leveraging differences in carbon prices among regions, carbon quotas are shared between all IESs, thereby reducing the overall carbon trading costs within the region. The paper also suggests that to encourage carbon cooperation between IESs, incentive measures such as government subsidies could be provided to foster collaboration. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed electricity–carbon energy scheduling method for MIESs can effectively improve the utilization flexibility of various energy resources and obtain the higher economic benefits, compared with the traditional method where each IES operates independently. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section C: Energy Economics and Policy)
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18 pages, 2806 KiB  
Article
Rainy Environment Identification Based on Channel State Information for Autonomous Vehicles
by Jianxin Feng, Xinhui Li and Hui Fang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3788; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093788 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
We introduce an innovative deep learning approach specifically designed for the environment identification of intelligent vehicles under rainy conditions in this paper. In the construction of wireless vehicular communication networks, an innovative approach is proposed that incorporates additional multipath components to simulate the [...] Read more.
We introduce an innovative deep learning approach specifically designed for the environment identification of intelligent vehicles under rainy conditions in this paper. In the construction of wireless vehicular communication networks, an innovative approach is proposed that incorporates additional multipath components to simulate the impact of raindrop scattering on the vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) channel, thereby emulating the channel characteristics of vehicular environments under rainy conditions and an equalization strategy in OFDM-based systems is proposed at the receiver end to counteract channel distortion. Then, a rainy environment identification method for autonomous vehicles is proposed. The core of this method lies in utilizing the Channel State Information (CSI) shared within the vehicular network to accurately identify the diverse rainy environments in which the vehicle operates without relying on traditional sensors. The environmental identification task is considered as a multi-class classification problem and a dedicated Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model is proposed. This CNN model uses the CSI estimated from CAM exchanged in vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication as training features. Simulation results showed that our method achieved an accuracy rate of 95.7% in recognizing various rainy environments, which significantly surpasses existing classical classification models. Moreover, it only took microseconds to predict with high accuracy, surpassing the performance limitations of traditional sensing systems under adverse weather conditions. This breakthrough ensures that intelligent vehicles can rapidly and accurately adjust driving parameters even in complex weather conditions like rain to autonomous drive safely and reliably. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous Driving and Intelligent Transportation)
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8 pages, 2175 KiB  
Case Report
Parasitic Granulomatous Dermatitis Caused by Pelodera spp. in Buffalo on Marajó Island, Pará
by Camila Cordeiro Barbosa, Carlos Eduardo da Silva Ferreira Filho, Carlos Magno Chaves Oliveira, Tatiane Teles Albernaz Ferreira, Marilene de Farias Brito, Stella Maris Pereira de Melo, Milena Carolina Paz, Saulo Petinatti Pavarini, David Driemeier and José Diomedes Barbosa
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1328; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091328 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This is the first report of parasitic granulomatous dermatitis caused by Pelodera spp. in a buffalo. The affected buffalo was about seven years old, was a female of the Murrah breed and belonged to a property located on Marajó Island in the State [...] Read more.
This is the first report of parasitic granulomatous dermatitis caused by Pelodera spp. in a buffalo. The affected buffalo was about seven years old, was a female of the Murrah breed and belonged to a property located on Marajó Island in the State of Pará. During the clinical examination, the animal was in a standing position and presented several multifocal nodular and placoid masses throughout the body, mostly on the forelimbs, hindlimbs, abdomen, mammary glands, perineum, vulva and tail. These masses were also observed on the nasal mucosa, head, neck, back and chest. On macroscopic examination, the skin had several multifocal-to-coalescent sessile nodular and placoid lesions. Histopathology of the skin showed a marked reduction in the number of hair follicles. In the superficial dermis, there was significant multifocal-to-coalescent inflammatory infiltration, consisting of macrophages, epithelioid macrophages, lymphocytes, plasma cells and multinucleated giant cells. In the remaining hair follicles, there were numerous cross and longitudinal sections of small rhabditoid nematodes characterized by a thin cuticle, platymyarian musculature, an intestinal tract, a rhabditiform esophagus and lateral alae (morphologically compatible with Pelodera spp.). The diagnosis of parasitic dermatitis was confirmed by histopathological skin lesions associated with the presence of intralesional rhabditiform larvae morphologically compatible with Pelodera spp. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)
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13 pages, 17857 KiB  
Article
A Triazine Membrane for Sustainable Acquisition of Au(III) from Wastewater
by Ge Shang, Haonan Dong, Yi Zhang, Conghuan Zhang, Ting Chen, Yunhua He, Hongxing He, Weili Li, Xiujun Deng, Zhifeng Nie and Sibiao Zhao
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 2051; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29092051 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The recovery of Au(III) from solution using adsorbents in the form of granules or powders is challenging due to issues such as instability during the recovery process or mass loss caused by small particle size. This study introduces a PEI-TCT/PVDF composite membrane designed [...] Read more.
The recovery of Au(III) from solution using adsorbents in the form of granules or powders is challenging due to issues such as instability during the recovery process or mass loss caused by small particle size. This study introduces a PEI-TCT/PVDF composite membrane designed to intercept and capture Au(III) in wastewater. Experimental results demonstrated that the PEI-TCT/PVDF membrane exhibits a broad pH range (1–8) and a high retention efficiency for Au(III) of 97.8%, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 294.5 mg/g. The mechanism of Au(III) adsorption on the PEI-TCT/PVDF membrane was mainly through electrostatic adsorption, which caused AuCl4 to aggregate on the surface of the membrane and gradually reduced to Au0 and Au+. Furthermore, the membrane can be entirely regenerated within 20 min and maintains its performance in subsequent adsorption cycles. This study highlights the potential of PEI-TCT/PVDF membranes for the recovery of precious Au(III). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Polymers in Separation Science)
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16 pages, 4790 KiB  
Article
Design and Analysis of a Narrow Linewidth Laser Based on a Triple Euler Gradient Resonant Ring
by Yikai Wang, Boxia Yan, Mi Zhou, Chenxi Sun, Yan Qi, Yanwei Wang, Yuanyuan Fan and Qian Wang
Photonics 2024, 11(5), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics11050412 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
We designed a narrow-linewidth external-cavity hybrid laser leveraging a silicon-on-insulator triple Euler gradient resonant ring. The laser’s outer cavity incorporates a compact, high-Q resonant ring with low loss. The straight waveguide part of the resonant ring adopts a width of 1.6 μm to [...] Read more.
We designed a narrow-linewidth external-cavity hybrid laser leveraging a silicon-on-insulator triple Euler gradient resonant ring. The laser’s outer cavity incorporates a compact, high-Q resonant ring with low loss. The straight waveguide part of the resonant ring adopts a width of 1.6 μm to ensure low loss transmission. The curved section is designed as an Euler gradient curved waveguide, which is beneficial for low loss and stable single-mode transmission. The design features an effective bending radius of only 26.35 μm, which significantly improves the compactness of the resonant ring and, in turn, reduces the overall footprint of the outer cavity chip. To bolster the laser power and cater to the varying shapes of semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) spots, we designed a multi-tip edge coupler. Theoretical analysis indicates that this edge coupler can achieve an optical coupling efficiency of 85%. It also reveals that the edge coupler provides 3 dB vertical and horizontal alignment tolerances of 0.76 μm and 2.4 μm, respectively, for a spot with a beam waist radius of 1.98 μm × 0.99 μm. The outer cavity, designed with an Euler gradient micro-ring, can achieve a side-mode suppression ratio (SMSR) of 30 dB within a tuning range of 100 nm, with a round-trip loss of the entire cavity at 1.12 dB, and an expected theoretical laser linewidth of 300 Hz. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Narrow Linewidth Laser Sources and Their Applications)
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16 pages, 4186 KiB  
Article
Effect of Therapeutic Gardening Program in Urban Gardens on the Mental Health of Children and Their Caregivers with Atopic Dermatitis
by Hyunjin Baik, Sueran Choi, Miae An, Hyeyoung Jin, Insoon Kang, Wonsuck Yoon and Young Yoo
Healthcare 2024, 12(9), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12090919 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study was conducted to identify the physical and psychological difficulties of children with atopic dermatitis and their caregivers, and to investigate the effects of participation in a novel therapeutic gardening program based on psychological intervention on their physical and mental health. The [...] Read more.
This study was conducted to identify the physical and psychological difficulties of children with atopic dermatitis and their caregivers, and to investigate the effects of participation in a novel therapeutic gardening program based on psychological intervention on their physical and mental health. The program, consisting of 15 sessions, was conducted for approximately 4 months in urban gardens in Seoul and involved 30 children with atopic dermatitis and their caregivers. Additionally, a control group of 30 non-participating caregivers was recruited for comparative analysis. The psychological and emotional changes in caregivers were assessed using six self-report scales (depression, anxiety, stress, vitality, life satisfaction, parenting efficacy) before and after participation in the program. Additionally, the depression index (CDI) and atopic dermatitis index (SCORAD, TEWL) were measured for the children with atopic dermatitis. The research results indicate that the therapeutic gardening program utilizing psychological intervention had a positive impact on the physiological and psychological health of participants. These results are significant as they demonstrate the clinical application of the professionally developed therapeutic gardening program through active intervention and operation. This study suggests that this program can serve as an effective intervention in improving the mental health of both children with atopic dermatitis and their caregivers. Full article
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15 pages, 4895 KiB  
Article
Effect of Phosphorus Application on Subcellular Distribution and Chemical Morphology of Cadmium in Eggplant Seedlings under Cadmium Stress
by Qinghui Meng, Wenhua Fan, Fenwu Liu, Gailing Wang and Xiaoying Di
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050932 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Soil cadmium (Cd) contamination poses a serious threat to ecosystems, and the application of phosphorus fertilizers can reduce Cd toxicity. However, the specific effects of different phosphorus fertilizers on the subcellular distribution and chemical morphology of Cd in eggplant grown in calcareous Cd-contaminated [...] Read more.
Soil cadmium (Cd) contamination poses a serious threat to ecosystems, and the application of phosphorus fertilizers can reduce Cd toxicity. However, the specific effects of different phosphorus fertilizers on the subcellular distribution and chemical morphology of Cd in eggplant grown in calcareous Cd-contaminated soil remain unclear. This study examined the impact of various types and levels of phosphate fertilizers on the subcellular distribution and chemical morphology of cadmium in eggplant seedlings using a two-factor analysis. The investigation was conducted via a pot experiment utilizing a two-factor analysis. The application of 0.35 g kg−1 dicalcium phosphate significantly decreased the Cd content in the subcellular distribution and induced notable alterations in the chemical morphology of Cd in eggplant roots. Specifically, the ethanol-extracted Cd state decreased by 65.45%, and the sodium chloride-extracted Cd state decreased by 64.65%. Conversely, Cd extracted by deionized water, acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, and the residue state increased by 6.20%, 4.01%, 20.87%, and 17.85%, respectively. The application of 0.35 g kg−1 dicalcium phosphate resulted in the most significant reduction in Cd content in eggplant and modification of subcellular Cd distribution and chemical morphology in roots. Full article
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15 pages, 3858 KiB  
Article
Mechanism of Microwave Radiation-Induced Learning and Memory Impairment Based on Hippocampal Metabolomics
by Shuting Guan, Yu Xin, Ke Ren, Hui Wang, Ji Dong, Haoyu Wang, Jing Zhang, Xinping Xu, Binwei Yao, Li Zhao and Ruiyun Peng
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(5), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14050441 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The brain is complex and metabolically active, and the detection of metabolites plays an important role in brain development and diseases. Currently, there is a lack of research on the metabolic spectrum changes in learning and memory impairment, and hippocampal damage induced by [...] Read more.
The brain is complex and metabolically active, and the detection of metabolites plays an important role in brain development and diseases. Currently, there is a lack of research on the metabolic spectrum changes in learning and memory impairment, and hippocampal damage induced by microwave radiation from the metabolic perspective. Aiming to provide sensitive indicators for microwave radiation-induced brain damage and establish a foundation for understanding its injury mechanisms, this study employed non-targeted metabolomics to investigate metabolic fluctuations and key metabolic pathway alterations in rats’ hippocampal tissue after microwave radiation. The memory and spatial exploration abilities of rats decreased after radiation. The postsynaptic densities were thickened in the MW group. The cholesterol sulfate, SM(d16:1/24:1(15Z)), and linoelaidylcarnitine were significantly increased after radiation, whereas etrahydrocorticosterone, L-phenylalanine, and histamine were significantly decreased after radiation. These metabolites were enriched in signaling pathways related to the inflammatory mediator regulation of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis. These findings indicate that microwave radiation causes spatial learning and memory dysfunction in rats and structural damage to hippocampal tissue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience)
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45 pages, 22119 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Effect of Antihypertensive Agents on Dental Implant Stability, Osseointegration and Survival Outcomes: A Systematic Review
by Dary Jones, Rabia S. Khan, John D. Thompson, Cemal Ucer and Simon Wright
Surgeries 2024, 5(2), 297-341; https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries5020027 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Antihypertensive agents are commonly prescribed to manage hypertension and are known to be beneficial for bone formation and remodeling. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the impact that antihypertensive agents have on dental implant stability, osseointegration, and survival outcomes. A [...] Read more.
Antihypertensive agents are commonly prescribed to manage hypertension and are known to be beneficial for bone formation and remodeling. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the impact that antihypertensive agents have on dental implant stability, osseointegration, and survival outcomes. A review of the literature was conducted using articles from 11 data sources. PRISMA guidelines were followed, and a PICO question was constructed. The search string “Antihypertensive* AND dental implant* AND (osseointegration OR stability OR survival OR success OR failure)” was used for all data sources where possible. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) was used for study appraisal, including the risk of bias. The search resulted in 7726 articles. After selection according to eligibility criteria, seven articles were obtained (one randomized control trial, two prospective cohort studies, three retrospective cohort studies, and a case control study). Five papers investigated the effects of antihypertensive agents on primary stability, but there were discrepancies in the method of assessment. Inhibition of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system was linked to higher primary stability. Secondary stability was usually higher than primary stability, but it is unknown if antihypertensive agents caused this. Survival outcomes were increased with certain antihypertensive agents. It is possible that inhibition of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system may lead to greater bone mineral density, improved primary stability, and improved survival outcomes although the effects on osseointegration are unknown. However, more research is needed to confirm this theory. Full article
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27 pages, 3084 KiB  
Article
Prospects for a Megacity Region Transition in Australia: A Preliminary Examination of Transport and Communication Drivers
by Peter Newton, James Whitten, Stephen Glackin, Margaret Reynolds and Magnus Moglia
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3712; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093712 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Australian governments continue to search for a model capable of planning future urban settlements at an extended spatial scale (the mega-metropolitan region) to accommodate high population growth more sustainably. Attempts at decentralisation over the past half century have failed, as state capital cities [...] Read more.
Australian governments continue to search for a model capable of planning future urban settlements at an extended spatial scale (the mega-metropolitan region) to accommodate high population growth more sustainably. Attempts at decentralisation over the past half century have failed, as state capital cities continue to sprawl in an unsustainable manner and increase their primacy at the expense of regional cities. This paper examines how two technologies, broadband and fast rail—both infrastructures capable of re-shaping space–time relationships—could underpin a transition of Australia’s largest capital cities into megacity regions by functionally integrating regional cities into their core metropolitan agglomerations. With the Melbourne megacity region as a spatial framework, changes in population and economic development are examined for Melbourne and several regional cities in Victoria following the introduction of regional fast rail (RFR) and broadband. The impact of high-speed rail (HSR) for intercity corridors in southeast England is analysed as a possible analogue for future application in Victoria. The results revealed that RFR primarily served to extend capital city suburban development. Only HSR had the capacity to ‘punch through’ and boost growth for ‘basic’ new economy industries in ‘on-line’ urban centres in corridors linked to London. High-speed broadband proved most attractive to Melbourne’s agglomeration of high-skilled information workers. Lower speed broadband services were more uniformly taken up across all centres. This discussion speculates on the impacts of these and other green economy and digitalisation drivers on prospects for a future megacity region transition in Victoria. Full article
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10 pages, 870 KiB  
Article
The Assessment of the Long-Term Impact of Radiotherapy on Biophysical Skin Properties in Patients after Head and Neck Cancer
by Jakub Pazdrowski, Adriana Polańska, Joanna Kaźmierska, Michał J. Kowalczyk, Mateusz Szewczyk, Patryk Niewinski, Wojciech Golusiński and Aleksandra Dańczak-Pazdrowska
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050739 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Chronic radiotherapy-induced skin injury (cRISI) is an irreversible and progressive condition that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. Despite the limited literature available on the assessment of the epidermal barrier in cRISI, there is a consensus that appropriate [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Chronic radiotherapy-induced skin injury (cRISI) is an irreversible and progressive condition that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. Despite the limited literature available on the assessment of the epidermal barrier in cRISI, there is a consensus that appropriate skincare, including the use of emollients, is the primary therapeutic approach for this group of patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biophysical properties of the skin during the late period (at least 90 days) following radiation therapy (RT) for head and neck cancer. Materials and Methods: This was a single-center prospective non-randomized study. It involved the analysis of 16 adult patients with head and neck cancer who underwent RT at the Greater Poland Cancer Center, along with 15 healthy volunteers. The study and control groups were matched for gender and age (p = 0.51). Clinical assessment, based on the LENT-SOMA scale, was conducted for all patients. Evaluation of the skin’s biophysical properties included: an analysis of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), and skin visualization using high-frequency ultrasonography (HF-USG). Results: A significantly higher TEWL was observed in the irradiated area compared to the control area in the study group (p = 0.004). However, there was no statistically significant difference in SCH (p = 0.073). Additionally, no significant difference was observed in the values of TEWL and SCH in the irradiated area between the group of patients with and without clinically obvious RISI (p = 0.192 and p = 0.415, respectively). The skin thickness of the irradiated area, assessed by HF-USG, did not differ significantly from the skin thickness of the control area (p = 0.638). Furthermore, no difference in skin thickness was observed in patients with clinical features of cRISI in the irradiated and control areas (p = 0.345). The mean time after RT was 6.1 years. Conclusions: This study marks the first demonstration of epidermal barrier damage in patients in the long term following RT for head and neck cancer. The impairment of the epidermal barrier was observed independently of evident cRISI features. This observation underscores the necessity to recommend appropriate skin care, including the use of emollients, for all patients following RT. We also suggest that HF-USG examination is generally inconclusive in determining the degree of skin damage in the late period after RT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Imaging of Skin Diseases)
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19 pages, 1771 KiB  
Review
Frontier Revitalisation of Industrial Heritage with Urban–Rural Fringe in China
by Tingjiang Gan, Juan Chen, Muxia Yao, Jeremy Cenci, Jiazhen Zhang and Yunxiao He
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051256 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The urban–rural fringe is at the forefront of the confrontation between the agricultural and industrial civilisations. How to handle the relationship between the two civilisations in this region and ensure its sustainable development is an eternal topic in the science of the human-living [...] Read more.
The urban–rural fringe is at the forefront of the confrontation between the agricultural and industrial civilisations. How to handle the relationship between the two civilisations in this region and ensure its sustainable development is an eternal topic in the science of the human-living environment. Thanks to the special historical background of the Third Line construction, China’s industrial heritage connects with the urban–rural fringe that surpasses other countries. For the first time, this study connects China’s Third Line construction, industrial heritage, and urban–rural integration within the same context, combining big data bibliometric methods to obtain the development characteristics and context of China’s industrial heritage research starting from 2004. It has strong policy characteristics, is influenced by administrative orders, and is aligned with urbanisation efforts. Theoretical exploration is the first step in research, followed by value connotations and cultural qualities. It addresses various topics, including industrial heritage conservation, regeneration approaches, and cultural heritage tourism. The research focuses primarily on the value appraisal of industrial heritage, exploring revitalisation tactics and routes, as well as regional development models in urban–rural periphery areas. This study also examines how scholars generally consider the impact of industrial heritage on the economic, social, and cultural development of urban–rural fringe areas in order to integrate and propose various protection and utilisation strategies, such as industrial heritage preservation, cultural and creative industry development, and tourism resource development. Full article
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13 pages, 1263 KiB  
Article
A Clinical Analysis of Anti-Programmed Death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatments Combined with Chemotherapy in Untreated Extensive-Stage Small-Cell Lung Cancer
by Ping-Chih Hsu, Bing-Chen Wu, Chin-Chou Wang, Li-Chung Chiu, Chiung-Hsin Chang, Ping-Chi Liu, Chiao-En Wu, Scott Chih-Hsi Kuo, Jia-Shiuan Ju, Allen Chung-Cheng Huang, Yu-Ching Lin, Cheng-Ta Yang and How-Wen Ko
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050474 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Real-world clinical experience of using anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with chemotherapy in the first-line treatment of extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients has rarely been reported. In this study, we aimed to perform a retrospective multicenter clinical analysis [...] Read more.
Real-world clinical experience of using anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with chemotherapy in the first-line treatment of extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients has rarely been reported. In this study, we aimed to perform a retrospective multicenter clinical analysis of extensive-stage SCLC patients receiving first-line therapy with anti-PD-L1 ICIs combined with chemotherapy. Between November 2018 and March 2022, 72 extensive-stage SCLC patients receiving first-line atezolizumab or durvalumab in combination with chemotherapy, according to the cancer center databases of Linkou, Chiayi, and Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospitals, were retrospectively included in the analysis. Twenty-one patients (29.2%) received atezolizumab and fifty-one (70.8%) received durvalumab. Objective response (OR) and disease control (DC) rates of 59.7% and 73.6%, respectively, were observed with first-line ICI plus chemotherapy. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 6.63 months (95% confidence interval (CI), 5.25–8.02), and the median overall survival (OS) was 16.07 months (95% CI, 15.12–17.0) in all study patients. A high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; >4) and a high serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration (>260 UL) were identified as independent unfavorable factors associated with shorter OS in the multivariate analysis. Regarding safety, neutropenia was the most common grade 3 treatment-related adverse event (AE), but no treatment-related deaths occurred in the study patients. First-line anti-PD-L1 ICIs combined with chemotherapy are effective and safe for male extensive-stage SCLC patients. Further therapeutic strategies may need to be developed for patients with unfavorable outcomes (e.g., baseline high NLR and serum LDH level). Full article
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18 pages, 4214 KiB  
Article
A Study of Adaptive Threshold Based on the Reconstruction Model for Marine Systems and Their Equipment Failure Warning
by Xuxu Duan, Zeyu Gao, Zhenxing Qiao, Taili Du, Yongjiu Zou, Peng Zhang, Yuewen Zhang and Peiting Sun
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 742; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050742 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
To achieve the failure warning of marine systems and their equipment (MSAE), the threshold is one of the most prominent issues that should be solved first. In this study, a fusion model based on sparse Bayes and probabilistic statistical methods is applied to [...] Read more.
To achieve the failure warning of marine systems and their equipment (MSAE), the threshold is one of the most prominent issues that should be solved first. In this study, a fusion model based on sparse Bayes and probabilistic statistical methods is applied to determine a new and more accurate adaptive alarm threshold. A multistep relevance vector machine (RVM) model is established to realize the parameter reconstruction in which the internal uncertainties caused by the degradation process and the external uncertainty caused by the loading, environment, and disturbances were considered. Then, a varying moving window (VMW) method is employed to determine the window size and achieve continuous data reconstruction. Further, the model based on Johnson distribution systems is utilized to complete the transformation of the residual parameters and calculate the adaptive threshold. Finally, the proposed adaptive decision threshold is successfully involved in the actual examples of the peak pressure and exhaust temperature of marine diesel engines. The results show that the proposed method can realize the continuous health condition monitoring of MSAE, successfully detect abnormal conditions in advance, achieve an early warning of failure, and reserve sufficient time for decision-making to prevent the occurrence of catastrophic disasters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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15 pages, 11756 KiB  
Article
Identification of a Rye Spring Mutant Derived from a Winter Rye Variety by High-Altitude Environment Screening Using RNA Sequencing Technology
by Yangying Wang, Yixuan Liu, Chengqun Yu, Shizhan Chen, Yankun Li, Lina Wei, Junxi Wu and Jianping Yang
Genes 2024, 15(5), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15050572 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Wintergrazer-70 and Ganyin No1 are high-yield forage varieties suitable for cultivation in high-altitude areas of Tibet (4300 m above sea level). Ganyin No1 was developed from Wintergrazer-70, with the latter serving as its parent variety. Ganyin No1 was identified as a spring [...] Read more.
Wintergrazer-70 and Ganyin No1 are high-yield forage varieties suitable for cultivation in high-altitude areas of Tibet (4300 m above sea level). Ganyin No1 was developed from Wintergrazer-70, with the latter serving as its parent variety. Ganyin No1 was identified as a spring variety, and subsequent RNA sequencing was conducted. RNA sequencing analysis identified 4 differentially expressed genes related to vernalization and 28 genes related to photoperiod regulation. The Sc7296g5-i1G3 gene is related to the flowering inhibition of rye, which may be related to the phenotypic difference in the Ganyin No1 variety in winter and spring. This finding provides valuable insights for future research on Ganyin No1, especially in addressing feed shortages in Tibet during winter and spring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Genetics and Genomics of Plants)
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16 pages, 338 KiB  
Article
The Approximation Characteristics of Weighted Band-Limited Function Space
by Yue Li, Guanggui Chen, Yanyan Xu and Xiangyu Pan
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1348; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091348 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This article primarily investigates the width problem within weighted band-limited function space in a uniform setting. Through an analysis of the properties of s-numbers, we establish a connection between the widths of weighted band-limited function spaces and the s-numbers of infinite-dimensional diagonal operators. [...] Read more.
This article primarily investigates the width problem within weighted band-limited function space in a uniform setting. Through an analysis of the properties of s-numbers, we establish a connection between the widths of weighted band-limited function spaces and the s-numbers of infinite-dimensional diagonal operators. Furthermore, employing the discretization method, we estimate the exact asymptotic orders of Kolmogorov n-width and linear n-width in the weighted band-limited function space, which is characterized by the weight ω=ωk=|k|rkZ0. Full article
12 pages, 3003 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Immunogenicity of African Swine Fever F317L Protein and Screening of T Cell Epitopes
by Ying Huang, Wenzhu Zhai, Zhen Wang, Yuheng He, Chunhao Tao, Yuanyuan Chu, Zhongbao Pang, Hongfei Zhu and Hong Jia
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091331 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The African swine fever virus (ASFV) encodes numerous proteins characterized by complex immune escape mechanisms. At present, the structure and function of these proteins, including the F317L protein, have yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, we examined the immunogenicity of the [...] Read more.
The African swine fever virus (ASFV) encodes numerous proteins characterized by complex immune escape mechanisms. At present, the structure and function of these proteins, including the F317L protein, have yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, we examined the immunogenicity of the F317L protein. Mice were subcutaneously immunized with the F317L protein using initial and subsequent booster doses, and, at the 28th day post-treatment, we assessed the humoral and cellular immune responses of mice. The F317L protein stimulated production of specific antibodies and activated humoral immune responses. In addition, F317L stimulated the production of large amounts of IFN-γ by splenic lymphocytes, thereby activating cellular immune responses. Using informatics technology, we predicted and synthesized 29 F317L protein T cell epitopes, which were screened using IFN-γ ELISpot. Among these, the F25 (246SRRSLVNPWT255) peptide was identified as having a stronger stimulatory effect than the full-length protein. Collectively, our findings revealed that the ASFV F317L protein can stimulate both strong humoral and cellular immunity in mice, and that the F25 (246SRRSLVNPWT255) peptide may be a potential active T cell epitope. These findings will provide a reference for further in-depth studies of the F317L protein and screening of antigenic epitopes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)
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16 pages, 3709 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) on Lipid Accumulation in Chlorella pyrenoidosa
by Tianji Liu, Huawei Guo, Qing Yu, Yajun Wang, Huan Liu, Yanan Zeng, Yitong Wang, Chunyu Liu and Junguo Li
Processes 2024, 12(5), 905; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050905 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this study, Chlorella pyrenoidosa was cultured with different concentrations of Cr(III) and Cr(VI), and the changes in biomass, lipid content, protein content and total sugar content of Chlorella pyrenoidosa under different culture conditions were detected. The effects of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) on [...] Read more.
In this study, Chlorella pyrenoidosa was cultured with different concentrations of Cr(III) and Cr(VI), and the changes in biomass, lipid content, protein content and total sugar content of Chlorella pyrenoidosa under different culture conditions were detected. The effects of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) on the intracellular antioxidant system and related key enzymes of lipid synthesis were analyzed. The results showed that appropriate Cr(III) and Cr(VI) concentrations could make Chlorella pyrenoidosa regulate the contents of SOD, POD, ASA, CAT and GSH in cells, improve the enzyme activity of ACC and promote lipid synthesis. The aim was to investigate the mechanism of lipid synthesis by analyzing the distribution of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) in algal cells. The lipid content of Chlorella pyrenoidosa reached its highest level at 50.43 wt% and 38.00 wt% when both Cr(III) and Cr(VI) concentrations in the culture environment were 0.5 mg/L. These values were 1.37 and 1.03 times higher than the control group, respectively. The addition of appropriate Cr(III) and Cr(VI) concentrations can increase ME enzyme activity and decrease PEPC enzyme activity, shorten the biomass accumulation cycle and prolong the lipid synthesis cycle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biological Processes and Systems)
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19 pages, 4282 KiB  
Review
Application of Deferoxamine in Tissue Regeneration Attributed to Promoted Angiogenesis
by Haijun Shen, Yane Ma, Yi Qiao, Chun Zhang, Jialing Chen and Ran Zhang
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 2050; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29092050 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Deferoxamine, an iron chelator used to treat diseases caused by excess iron, has had a Food and Drug Administration-approved status for many years. A large number of studies have confirmed that deferoxamine can reduce inflammatory response and promote angiogenesis. Blood vessels play a [...] Read more.
Deferoxamine, an iron chelator used to treat diseases caused by excess iron, has had a Food and Drug Administration-approved status for many years. A large number of studies have confirmed that deferoxamine can reduce inflammatory response and promote angiogenesis. Blood vessels play a crucial role in sustaining vital life by facilitating the delivery of immune cells, oxygen, and nutrients, as well as eliminating waste products generated during cellular metabolism. Dysfunction in blood vessels may contribute significantly to the development of life-threatening diseases. Anti-angiogenesis therapy and pro-angiogenesis/angiogenesis strategies have been frequently recommended for various diseases. Herein, we describe the mechanism by which deferoxamine promotes angiogenesis and summarize its application in chronic wounds, bone repair, and diseases of the respiratory system. Furthermore, we discuss the drug delivery system of deferoxamine for treating various diseases, providing constructive ideas and inspiration for the development of new treatment strategies. Full article
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15 pages, 1808 KiB  
Article
Is the A-1 Pigment in Photosystem I Part of P700? A (P700+–P700) FTIR Difference Spectroscopy Study of A-1 Mutants
by Julia S. Kirpich, Lujun Luo, Michael R. Nelson, Neva Agarwala, Wu Xu and Gary Hastings
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4839; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094839 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The involvement of the second pair of chlorophylls, termed A-1A and A-1B, in light-induced electron transfer in photosystem I (PSI) is currently debated. Asparagines at PsaA600 and PsaB582 are involved in coordinating the A-1B and A-1A pigments, respectively. [...] Read more.
The involvement of the second pair of chlorophylls, termed A-1A and A-1B, in light-induced electron transfer in photosystem I (PSI) is currently debated. Asparagines at PsaA600 and PsaB582 are involved in coordinating the A-1B and A-1A pigments, respectively. Here we have mutated these asparagine residues to methionine in two single mutants and a double mutant in PSI from Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, which we term NA600M, NB582M, and NA600M/NB582M mutants. (P700+–P700) FTIR difference spectra (DS) at 293 K were obtained for the wild-type and the three mutant PSI samples. The wild-type and mutant FTIR DS differ considerably. This difference indicates that the observed changes in the (P700+–P700) FTIR DS cannot be due to only the PA and PB pigments of P700. Comparison of the wild-type and mutant FTIR DS allows the assignment of different features to both A-1 pigments in the FTIR DS for wild-type PSI and assesses how these features shift upon cation formation and upon mutation. While the exact role the A-1 pigments play in the species we call P700 is unclear, we demonstrate that the vibrational modes of the A-1A and A-1B pigments are modified upon P700+ formation. Previously, we showed that the A-1 pigments contribute to P700 in green algae. In this manuscript, we demonstrate that this is also the case in cyanobacterial PSI. The nature of the mutation-induced changes in algal and cyanobacterial PSI is similar and can be considered within the same framework, suggesting a universality in the nature of P700 in different photosynthetic organisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Photosystem I)
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