The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
12 pages, 2718 KiB  
Article
Defining the miRnome of Saphenous Vein Smooth Muscle Cells from Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
by Alisah Hussain, Yaw Asare-Amankwah, Shehryar Qureshi, M. Julie Thornton, Timothy M. Palmer, Israel O. Bolanle, Ian C. Wood, Neil A. Turner, Karen E. Porter, Andrew Tedder and Kirsten Riches-Suman
Diabetology 2024, 5(2), 178-189; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology5020014 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients suffer premature development of cardiovascular disease and commonly require cardiac revascularization using the autologous saphenous vein (SV). Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are the principal cell type within the vascular wall and are dysfunctional in T2DM SV-SMCs, yet [...] Read more.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients suffer premature development of cardiovascular disease and commonly require cardiac revascularization using the autologous saphenous vein (SV). Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are the principal cell type within the vascular wall and are dysfunctional in T2DM SV-SMCs, yet the mechanisms underpinning this are incompletely understood. The purpose of this study was to interrogate differential microRNA (miRNA) expression in SV-SMCs to enhance our understanding of T2DM SV-SMC phenotypic change. miRNA expression in primary human SV-SMCs from T2DM and non-diabetic (ND) donors was determined using an array (n = 6 each of ND and T2DM SV-SMCs). Differentially expressed miRNAs were ranked, and functional annotation of the 30 most differentially expressed miRNAs using DAVID and KEGG analysis revealed pathways related to SMC phenotype, including proliferation, migration, cytokine production and cell signaling. After selecting miRNAs known to be involved in SMC phenotypic regulation, miR-17, miR-29b-2, miR-31, miR-130b and miR-491 were further validated using qRT-PCR (n = 5 each of ND and T2DM SV-SMC), with miR-29b-2 subsequently being removed from further investigation. Potential mRNA targets were identified using mirDIP. Predicted target analysis highlighted likely dysregulation in transcription, epigenetic regulation, cell survival, intracellular signaling and cytoskeletal regulation, all of which are known to be dysfunctional in T2DM SV-SMCs. In conclusion, this paper identified four miRNAs that are dysregulated in T2DM SV-SMCs and are implicated in functional changes in the behavior of these cells. This provides a step forward in our understanding of the molecular and epigenetic regulation of vascular dysfunction in T2DM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers Collection of Editorial Board Members in Diabetology)
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16 pages, 1297 KiB  
Article
Energy Sector Evolution: Perspectives on Energy Platforms and Energy Transition
by Mohamed Wael Ben Khaled and Nadia Ouertani Abaoub
Platforms 2024, 2(2), 68-83; https://doi.org/10.3390/platforms2020005 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Digital platforms are becoming more important in transforming the energy industry and altering the way we produce, distribute, and use energy. This paper explores the role of energy platforms in the transition towards renewable energy. We highlight, through real-life examples, that these platforms [...] Read more.
Digital platforms are becoming more important in transforming the energy industry and altering the way we produce, distribute, and use energy. This paper explores the role of energy platforms in the transition towards renewable energy. We highlight, through real-life examples, that these platforms foster a participatory approach, convert consumers into proactive participants, democratize energy production, and encourage innovation in areas such as storage, electric mobility, and renewable project investments. Through a comprehensive review of the current literature, technological advancements, and emerging business models, we identify the possible key contributions of digital platforms to the energy sector. These platforms offer personalized user experiences, mutual benefits for users and companies, adaptability to market changes, support for peer-to-peer trade, and a reduction in bureaucracy. We then present a pioneering conceptual model by Liu et al. (2022), which integrates the energy cloud, digital platform, and transaction platform and we explore the business model of energy platforms. This business model is characterized by connectivity, innovative pricing, and revenue strategies independent of physical asset ownership. Advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading, dynamic pricing, and a focus on transaction and access fees over traditional cost structures. Drawing on the business model and previous analysis we update the conceptual model for energy platforms to present a practical vision through a holistic approach. Full article
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17 pages, 7504 KiB  
Article
Influence of a Shaft Shoulder on the Torsional Load-Bearing Behaviour of Trochoidal Profile Contours as Positive Shaft–Hub Connections
by Masoud Ziaei, Marcus Selzer and Heiko Sommer
Eng 2024, 5(2), 834-850; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng5020045 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Shafts with a stepped shoulder are particularly well known in the field of drive technology. In combination with a form-fit shaft–hub connection, the shaft shoulder fixes the hub on the shaft as well as being responsible for the absorption of the axial forces. [...] Read more.
Shafts with a stepped shoulder are particularly well known in the field of drive technology. In combination with a form-fit shaft–hub connection, the shaft shoulder fixes the hub on the shaft as well as being responsible for the absorption of the axial forces. With profiled shafts, there is a notch overlay in the shaft shoulder, involving the shaft shoulder and profile. If the hub is also connected with the profiled shaft, the hub edge acts as an additional notch in the shaft shoulder area. The multiple resulting notches have not previously been part of research activities in the field of innovative trochoidal profile connections. Compared to conventional positive-locking connections, such as the keyway connection or the involute splined shaft profile, the favourable features of trochoidal profiles have only been based on connections with stepless shafts without a shoulder in previous studies. Accordingly, this article addresses numerical and experimental investigations of trochoidal profile connections with offset shafts for pure torsional loading. Focusing on a hybrid trochoid with four eccentricities and six drivers, a well-founded numerical and experimental investigation was carried out with numerous fatigue tests. In addition, the influence of a shaft shoulder was also demonstrated on simple epitrochoidal and hypotrochoidal profiles. Full article
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35 pages, 1938 KiB  
Review
Review of Modeling Approaches for Conjugate Heat Transfer Processes in Oil-Immersed Transformers
by Ivan Smolyanov, Evgeniy Shmakov, Denis Butusov and Alexandra I. Khalyasmaa
Computation 2024, 12(5), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/computation12050097 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
This review addresses the modeling approaches for heat transfer processes in oil-immersed transformer. Electromagnetic, thermal, and hydrodynamic thermal fields are identified as the most critical aspects in describing the state of the transformer. The paper compares the implementation complexity, calculation time, and details [...] Read more.
This review addresses the modeling approaches for heat transfer processes in oil-immersed transformer. Electromagnetic, thermal, and hydrodynamic thermal fields are identified as the most critical aspects in describing the state of the transformer. The paper compares the implementation complexity, calculation time, and details of the results for different approaches to creating a mathematical model, such as circuit-based models and finite element and finite volume methods. Examples of successful model implementation are provided, along with the features of oil-immersed transformer modeling. In addition, the review considers the strengths and limitations of the considered models in relation to creating a digital twin of a transformer. The review concludes that it is not feasible to create a universal model that accounts for all the features of physical processes in an oil-immersed transformer, operates in real time for a digital twin, and provides the required accuracy at the same time. The conducted research shows that joint modeling of electromagnetic and thermal processes, reducing the dimensionality of models, provides the most comprehensive solution to the problem. Full article
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16 pages, 3903 KiB  
Article
A Broadband Three-Way Series Doherty Power Amplifier with Deep Power Back-Off Efficiency Enhancement for 5G Application
by Xianfeng Que, Jun Li and Yanjie Wang
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1882; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101882 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
This article presents a new broadband three-way series Doherty power amplifier (DPA) topology, which enables a broadband output power back-off (OBO) efficiency enhancement of up to 10 dB or higher. The proposed DPA topology achieves Doherty load modulation and three-way power combining through [...] Read more.
This article presents a new broadband three-way series Doherty power amplifier (DPA) topology, which enables a broadband output power back-off (OBO) efficiency enhancement of up to 10 dB or higher. The proposed DPA topology achieves Doherty load modulation and three-way power combining through a transformer, which requires only a low coupling factor, thus facilitating its implementation in double-sided PCBs or monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) processes. The design equations for the proposed DPA topology are proposed and analyzed in detail. A proof-of-concept PA at the 2.1–2.8 GHz band using commercial GaN transistors was designed and fabricated to validate the proposed concept. Within the operating frequency band, it achieves a saturated output power (Psat) of 44.5–46.5 dBm with a peak drain efficiency (DE) of 60–72%, and 43–52% DE at 10 dB OBO. Moreover, under a 20 MHz long-term evolution (LTE)-modulated signal, the PA demonstrates a 36.8–37.5 dBm average output power (Pavg) and 47–53% average drain efficiency (DEavg). Notably, the adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) is as low as −35–−28.2 dBc without any digital predistortion (DPD). Full article
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17 pages, 535 KiB  
Article
Digital and Physical Interactive Learning Environments: Early Childhood Mathematics Teachers’ Beliefs about Technology through Reflective Writing
by Maha Saad Alsaeed and Mona Khalifah Aladil
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050517 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In early mathematics education, the beliefs of the teacher are essential for facilitating the integration of technology into teaching mathematics. This study explores the influence of physical and digital interactive learning environments on the development of early childhood teachers’ beliefs about integrating technology [...] Read more.
In early mathematics education, the beliefs of the teacher are essential for facilitating the integration of technology into teaching mathematics. This study explores the influence of physical and digital interactive learning environments on the development of early childhood teachers’ beliefs about integrating technology into early mathematics classrooms. To understand the development of teachers’ beliefs, a half-year, content-based professional development program that incorporates interactive digital and physical environments was designed for this research on early childhood mathematics teachers (N = 58). We administered a questionnaire to measure teachers’ beliefs regarding employing an interactive technological environment in mathematics classrooms before and after engaging in an intervention program. In addition, a reflective writing strategy was implemented with the participants (N = 10) to understand the development of their beliefs about technology via an evaluation of their levels of reflection. In general, the research findings indicate that an interactive learning environment supports an improvement in teachers’ beliefs about technology. Furthermore, positive qualitative findings were drawn from the reflective writing essays of early childhood teachers. The qualitative findings indicate that an interactive environment enables teachers to be conscious of selecting effective math-specific technologies that facilitate children’s exploration and discovery of mathematics concepts. Full article
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24 pages, 2533 KiB  
Article
Evaluating Preparedness and Overcoming Challenges in Electricity Trading: An In-Depth Analysis Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process and a Case Study Exploration
by Suraj Regmi, Abhinav Rayamajhi, Ramhari Poudyal and Sanjeev Adhikari
Electricity 2024, 5(2), 271-294; https://doi.org/10.3390/electricity5020014 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The economy of South Asia is experiencing growth, yet it faces constraints due to heavy reliance on fossil fuels and frequent power outages. Access to diverse energy sources, particularly electricity, is crucial for sustaining this growth. One feasible solution involves neighbouring countries engaging [...] Read more.
The economy of South Asia is experiencing growth, yet it faces constraints due to heavy reliance on fossil fuels and frequent power outages. Access to diverse energy sources, particularly electricity, is crucial for sustaining this growth. One feasible solution involves neighbouring countries engaging in the trade of renewable electrical energy. Hydropower stands as one of the many energy sources available in South Asia. However, sectorial constraints pose significant challenges to energy trade initiatives. This study utilises the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to evaluate Nepal’s readiness and identify obstacles to its cross-border energy trade with India and Bangladesh. A comprehensive analysis of these obstacles is imperative for formulating effective strategies and policies. Additionally, this study offers recommendations for enhancing preparedness and resolving issues related to energy trading, which may apply to similar cross-border situations. This study ranks energy trading obstacles with neighbouring nations using the AHP, offering key insights for stakeholders and policymakers. Using a non-probabilistic purposeful sampling technique, 25 expert respondents from the energy sector and prominent academicians were selected as part of the data collection procedure. At every level of the interview process, their perspectives were invaluable in guaranteeing a thorough and rigorous investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Electricity Demand-Side Management, 2nd Volume)
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13 pages, 1031 KiB  
Article
CA-125 KELIM as an Alternative Predictive Tool to Identify Which Patients Can Benefit from PARPi in High-Grade Serous Advanced Ovarian Cancer: A Retrospective Pilot Diagnostic Accuracy Study
by Dimitrios Zouzoulas, Dimitrios Tsolakidis, Panagiotis Tzitzis, Kimon Chatzistamatiou, Vasilis Theodoulidis, Iliana Sofianou, Grigoris Grimbizis and Eleni Timotheadou
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5230; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105230 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
BRCA mutation and homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) are the criteria for the administration of PARP inhibitor (PARPi) maintenance therapy. It is known that PARPi efficacy is related to platinum sensitivity and that the latter can be demonstrated from the CA-125 elimination rate constant [...] Read more.
BRCA mutation and homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) are the criteria for the administration of PARP inhibitor (PARPi) maintenance therapy. It is known that PARPi efficacy is related to platinum sensitivity and that the latter can be demonstrated from the CA-125 elimination rate constant (KELIM). This study aims to investigate if KELIM can be another tool in the identification of patients that could be benefit from PARPi therapy. Retrospective analysis of patients with high-grade serous advanced ovarian cancer that underwent cytoreduction and was further tested for HRD status. The HRD status was tested either by myChoice HRD CDx assay or by RediScore assay. KELIM score was measured in both neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings with the online tool biomarker-kinetics.org. A total of 39 patients had available data for estimating both HRD status and KELIM score. When assuming KELIM as a binary index test with the value 1 as the cut-off point, the sensitivity was 0.86, 95% CI (0.64–0.97) and the specificity was 0.83, 95% CI (0.59–0.96). On the other hand, when assuming KELIM as a continuous index test, the area under the curve (AUC) was 81% and the optimal threshold, using the Youden index, was identified as 1.03 with a sensitivity of 85.7% and a specificity of 83.3%. KELIM score seems to be a new, cheaper, and faster tool to identify patients that can benefit from PARPi maintenance therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Gynecological Cancers 2.0)
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12 pages, 2765 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Magnetoresistive Shunts and Its Sensitivity Temperature Compensation
by Diego Ramírez-Muñoz, Rafael García-Gil, Susana Cardoso and Paulo Freitas
Sensors 2024, 24(10), 3047; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24103047 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The main purpose of the paper is to show how a magnetoresistive (MR) element can work as a current sensor instead of using a Wheatstone bridge composed by four MR elements, defining the concept of a magnetoresistive shunt (MR-shunt). This concept is reached [...] Read more.
The main purpose of the paper is to show how a magnetoresistive (MR) element can work as a current sensor instead of using a Wheatstone bridge composed by four MR elements, defining the concept of a magnetoresistive shunt (MR-shunt). This concept is reached by considering that once the MR element is biased at a constant current, the voltage drop between its terminals offers information, by the MR effect, of the current to be measured, as happens in a conventional shunt resistor. However, an MR-shunt has the advantage of being a non-dissipative shunt since the current of interest does not circulate through the material, preventing its self-heating. Moreover, it provides galvanic isolation. First, we propose an electronic circuitry enabling the utilization of the available MR sensors integrated into a Wheatstone bridge as sensing elements (MR-shunt). This circuitry allows independent characterization of each of the four elements of the bridge. An independently implemented MR element is also analyzed. Secondly, we propose an electronic conditioning circuit for the MR-shunt, which allows both the bridge-integrated element and the single element to function as current sensors in a similar way to the sensing bridge. Third, the thermal variation in the sensitivity of the MR-shunt, and its temperature coefficient, are obtained. An electronic interface is proposed and analyzed for thermal drift compensation of the MR-shunt current sensitivity. With this hardware compensation, temperature coefficients are experimentally reduced from 0.348%/°C without compensation to −0.008%/°C with compensation for an element integrated in a sensor bridge and from 0.474%/°C to −0.0007%/°C for the single element. Full article
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17 pages, 10425 KiB  
Article
MicroRNA-10 Family Promotes Renal Fibrosis through the VASH-1/Smad3 Pathway
by Yichen Shuai, Na Xu, Chuan Zhao, Fengrui Yang, Zhifen Ning and Guoxia Li
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5232; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105232 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Renal fibrosis (RF) stands as a pivotal pathological process in the advanced stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and impeding its progression is paramount for delaying the advancement of CKD. The miR-10 family, inclusive of miR-10a and miR-10b, has been implicated in the [...] Read more.
Renal fibrosis (RF) stands as a pivotal pathological process in the advanced stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and impeding its progression is paramount for delaying the advancement of CKD. The miR-10 family, inclusive of miR-10a and miR-10b, has been implicated in the development of various fibrotic diseases. Nevertheless, the precise role of miR-10 in the development of RF remains enigmatic. In this study, we utilized both an in vivo model involving unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) in mice and an in vitro model employing TGF-β1 stimulation in HK-2 cells to unravel the mechanism underlying the involvement of miR-10a/b in RF. The findings revealed heightened expression of miR-10a and miR-10b in the kidneys of UUO mice, accompanied by a substantial increase in p-Smad3 and renal fibrosis-related proteins. Conversely, the deletion of these two genes led to a notable reduction in p-Smad3 levels and the alleviation of RF in mouse kidneys. In the in vitro model of TGF-β1-stimulated HK-2 cells, the co-overexpression of miR-10a and miR-10b fostered the phosphorylation of Smad3 and RF, while the inhibition of miR-10a and miR-10b resulted in a decrease in p-Smad3 levels and RF. Further research revealed that miR-10a and miR-10b, through binding to the 3’UTR region of Vasohibin-1 (VASH-1), suppressed the expression of VASH-1, thereby promoting the elevation of p-Smad3 and exacerbating the progression of RF. The miR-10 family may play a pivotal role in RF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Roles of Non-coding RNAs in Diseases)
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15 pages, 5860 KiB  
Article
Genome-Wide Identification of the Pectate Lyase Gene Family in Potato and Expression Analysis under Salt Stress
by Zhiqi Wang, Tao Liu, Wenbo Wu, Wenting Shi, Jian Shi, Fengyan Mo, Chong Du, Chaonan Wang and Zhongmin Yang
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1322; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101322 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Pectin is a structural polysaccharide and a major component of plant cell walls. Pectate lyases are a class of enzymes that degrade demethylated pectin by cleaving the α-1,4-glycosidic bond, and they play an important role in plant growth and development. Currently, little is [...] Read more.
Pectin is a structural polysaccharide and a major component of plant cell walls. Pectate lyases are a class of enzymes that degrade demethylated pectin by cleaving the α-1,4-glycosidic bond, and they play an important role in plant growth and development. Currently, little is known about the PL gene family members and their involvement in salt stress in potato. In this study, we utilized bioinformatics to identify members of the potato pectate lyase gene family and analyzed their gene and amino acid sequence characteristics. The results showed that a total of 27 members of the pectate lyase gene family were identified in potato. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that these genes were divided into eight groups. Analysis of their promoters indicated that several members’ promoter regions contained a significant number of hormone and stress response elements. Further, we found that several members responded positively to salt treatment under single salt and mixed salt stress. Since StPL18 exhibited a consistent expression pattern under both single and mixed salt stress conditions, its subcellular localization was determined. The results indicated that StPL18 is localized in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. The results will establish a foundation for analyzing the functions of potato pectate lyase family members and their expression under salt stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology)
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20 pages, 2490 KiB  
Article
Study of Self-Excited Thermomechanical Oscillator with Shape Memory Alloys
by Ivo Yotov, Georgi Todorov and Todor Todorov
Actuators 2024, 13(5), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/act13050182 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, a new type of self-excited thermomechanical oscillator containing an oscillating shape memory alloy (SMA) filament with two symmetrically arranged spheres is investigated. The self-excitation of the oscillations is due to a heater of constant temperature, which causes periodic contractions of [...] Read more.
In this paper, a new type of self-excited thermomechanical oscillator containing an oscillating shape memory alloy (SMA) filament with two symmetrically arranged spheres is investigated. The self-excitation of the oscillations is due to a heater of constant temperature, which causes periodic contractions of the filament when it approaches it. The contracted filament moves away from the heater a distance sufficient to cool it. Under the action of the weight of the spheres, the cooled filament re-approaches the heater, causing the above processes to repeat periodically. On the basis of experimental studies, approximating functions of the heater’s heat field distribution are derived. A dynamic model of the oscillator has been created, in which the minor and major hysteresis in the SMA alloy and the distribution of the heat field around the heater have been taken into account. Through numerical solutions of the differential equations, the laws of motion of the spheres are obtained. The displacements of the spheres in two perpendicular directions were measured using an experimental system. The obtained experimental results validate the proposed dynamic model and its assumptions with a high degree of confidence. Conclusions are drawn about the stochastic nature of the oscillations due to the hysteresis properties of the SMA and the temperature variation of the natural frequency of the oscillating system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) Actuators and Their Applications)
19 pages, 7511 KiB  
Article
Effects of Garlic on Breast Tumor Cells with a Triple Negative Phenotype: Peculiar Subtype-Dependent Down-Modulation of Akt Signaling
by Federica Brugnoli, Marcello Dell’Aira, Paola Tedeschi, Silvia Grassilli, Marina Pierantoni, Rebecca Foschi and Valeria Bertagnolo
Cells 2024, 13(10), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13100822 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Breast cancer includes tumor subgroups with morphological, molecular, and clinical differences. Intrinsic heterogeneity especially characterizes breast tumors with a triple negative phenotype, often leading to the failure of even the most advanced therapeutic strategies. To improve breast cancer treatment, the use of natural [...] Read more.
Breast cancer includes tumor subgroups with morphological, molecular, and clinical differences. Intrinsic heterogeneity especially characterizes breast tumors with a triple negative phenotype, often leading to the failure of even the most advanced therapeutic strategies. To improve breast cancer treatment, the use of natural agents to integrate conventional therapies is the subject of ever-increasing attention. In this context, garlic (Allium sativum) shows anti-cancerous potential, interfering with the proliferation, motility, and malignant progression of both non-invasive and invasive breast tumor cells. As heterogeneity could be at the basis of variable effects, the main objective of our study was to evaluate the anti-tumoral activity of a garlic extract in breast cancer cells with a triple negative phenotype. Established triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines from patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) were used, revealing subtype-dependent effects on morphology, cell cycle, and invasive potential, correlated with the peculiar down-modulation of Akt signaling, a crucial regulator in solid tumors. Our results first demonstrate that the effects of garlic on TNBC breast cancer are not unique and suggest that only more precise knowledge of the mechanisms activated by this natural compound in each tumor will allow for the inclusion of garlic in personalized therapeutic approaches to breast cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Microenvironment)
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23 pages, 681 KiB  
Article
A Study on the Impact of Enterprise Digital Evolution on Outward Foreign Investments
by Xinhua Yang, Haimei Gan, Shuai Luo and Jingjing Lv
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4021; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104021 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In the age of the digital economy, digital evolution has emerged as a central focus in academic research. The achievement is of paramount importance for augmenting their international investments. This research utilizes data from publicly listed manufacturing firms in China from 2010 to [...] Read more.
In the age of the digital economy, digital evolution has emerged as a central focus in academic research. The achievement is of paramount importance for augmenting their international investments. This research utilizes data from publicly listed manufacturing firms in China from 2010 to 2021 to examine the influence of enterprise digital evolution on outbound foreign investments. The research findings reveal that enterprise digital evolution has a significant positive impact on the outward foreign investments of enterprises and exhibits heterogeneity in terms of region, company size, and industry type. Mechanism tests reveal that the impact of enterprise digital evolution on outward foreign investments can be realized through four pathways: enhancing ESG performance, reducing debt financing costs (COD1) (representing the proportion of interest costs to the total of long and short-term debts), company age, and debt financing costs (COD2) (denoting the proportion of financial expenses to the total of long and short-term debts). In the context of digitization, enterprise digital evolution continues to hold positive significance for outward foreign investments, contributing to the enrichment of the theoretical research on the subject to a certain extent. Full article
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17 pages, 1211 KiB  
Article
FireXplainNet: Optimizing Convolution Block Architecture for Enhanced Wildfire Detection and Interpretability
by Muneeb A. Khan and Heemin Park
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1881; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101881 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The early detection of wildfires is a crucial challenge in environmental monitoring, pivotal for effective disaster management and ecological conservation. Traditional detection methods often fail to detect fires accurately and in a timely manner, resulting in significant adverse consequences. This paper presents FireXplainNet, [...] Read more.
The early detection of wildfires is a crucial challenge in environmental monitoring, pivotal for effective disaster management and ecological conservation. Traditional detection methods often fail to detect fires accurately and in a timely manner, resulting in significant adverse consequences. This paper presents FireXplainNet, a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) base model, designed specifically to address these limitations through enhanced efficiency and precision in wildfire detection. We optimized data input via specialized preprocessing techniques, significantly improving detection accuracy on both the Wildfire Image and FLAME datasets. A distinctive feature of our approach is the integration of Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations (LIME), which facilitates a deeper understanding of and trust in the model’s predictive capabilities. Additionally, we have delved into optimizing pretrained models through transfer learning, enriching our analysis and offering insights into the comparative effectiveness of FireXplainNet. The model achieved an accuracy of 87.32% on the FLAME dataset and 98.70% on the Wildfire Image dataset, with inference times of 0.221 and 0.168 milliseconds, respectively. These performance metrics are critical for the application of real-time fire detection systems, underscoring the potential of FireXplainNet in environmental monitoring and disaster management strategies. Full article
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13 pages, 1852 KiB  
Article
Segmental Mandibulectomy and Mandibular Reconstruction with Fibula-Free Flap Using a 3D Template
by Melania Tatti, Filippo Carta, Mauro Bontempi, Sara Deriu, Cinzia Mariani, Valeria Marrosu, Emanuele Foddis, Clara Gerosa, Giuseppe Marongiu, Luca Saba, Andrea Figus, Massimiliano Pau, Bruno Leban and Roberto Puxeddu
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(5), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14050512 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: The present study evaluates the influence of virtual surgical planning with a preoperative 3D resin model on aesthetic and functional outcomes in patients treated by segmental mandibulectomy and reconstruction with fibula-free flap for oral cancer. Methods: All consecutive patients who underwent segmental [...] Read more.
Introduction: The present study evaluates the influence of virtual surgical planning with a preoperative 3D resin model on aesthetic and functional outcomes in patients treated by segmental mandibulectomy and reconstruction with fibula-free flap for oral cancer. Methods: All consecutive patients who underwent segmental mandibulectomy and mandibular reconstruction with a fibula-free flap using a 3D template at our department from January 2021 to January 2023 were included in the study. “Patients control” were patients treated by reconstruction with a fibula-free flap without using a 3D template. Three-dimensional modeling was performed by converting from preoperative computed tomography to a stereolithography format to obtain the resin 3D models. Qualitative analysis of anatomical and aesthetic results consisted of the evaluation of the patients’ aesthetic and functional satisfaction and the symmetry of the mandibular contour observed at clinical examination. Quantitative analysis was based on the assessment of the accuracy and precision of the reconstruction by comparing preoperative and postoperative computed tomograms as objective indicators. Results: Seven patients (five males and two females, mean age of 65.1 years) were included in the study. All patients showed a symmetric mandibular contour based on the clinical examination. After recovery, six patients (85.7%) considered themselves aesthetically satisfied. The quantitative analysis (assessed in six/seven patients) showed that the mean difference between preoperative and postoperative intercondylar distance, intergonial angle distance, anteroposterior dimension, and gonial angle improved in the 3D template-assisted group. Conclusion: The 3D-printed template for mandibular reconstruction with microvascular fibula-free flap can improve aesthetic outcomes in comparison with standard approaches. Full article
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11 pages, 965 KiB  
Article
Phenotypic Investigation and Detection of Biofilm-Associated Genes in Acinetobacter baumannii Isolates, Obtained from Companion Animals
by Marios Lysitsas, Eleutherios Triantafillou, Irene Chatzipanagiotidou, Konstantina Antoniou, Vassiliki Spyrou, Charalambos Billinis and George Valiakos
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050109 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Bacteria of the genus Acinetobacter, especially Acinetobacter baumannii (Ab), have emerged as pathogens of companion animals during the last two decades and are commonly associated with hospitalization and multidrug resistance. A critical factor for the distribution of relevant strains in [...] Read more.
Bacteria of the genus Acinetobacter, especially Acinetobacter baumannii (Ab), have emerged as pathogens of companion animals during the last two decades and are commonly associated with hospitalization and multidrug resistance. A critical factor for the distribution of relevant strains in healthcare facilities, including veterinary facilities, is their adherence to both biotic and abiotic surfaces and the production of biofilms. A group of 41 A. baumannii isolates obtained from canine and feline clinical samples in Greece was subjected to phenotypic investigation of their ability to produce biofilms using the tissue culture plate (TCP) method. All of them (100%) produced biofilms, while 23 isolates (56.1%) were classified as strong producers, 11 (26.8%) as moderate producers, and 7 (17.1%) as weak producers. A correlation between the MDR and XDR phenotypes and weak or moderate biofilm production was identified. Moreover, the presence of four biofilm-associated genes bap, blaPER, ompA, and csuE was examined by PCR, and they were detected in 100%, 65.9%, 97.6%, and 95.1% of the strains respectively. All isolates carried at least two of the investigated genes, whereas most of the strong biofilm producers carried all four genes. In conclusion, the spread and persistence of biofilm-producing Ab strains in veterinary facilities is a matter of concern, since they are regularly obtained from infected animals, indicating their potential as challenging pathogens for veterinarians due to multidrug resistance and tolerance in conventional eradication measures. Furthermore, considering that companion animals can act as reservoirs of relevant strains, public health concerns emerge. Full article
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15 pages, 6583 KiB  
Article
Insights into the Volatile Flavor Profiles of Two Types of Beef Tallow via Electronic Nose and Gas Chromatography–Ion Mobility Spectrometry Analysis
by Ke Li, Liangyao Zhang, Danhui Yi, Yunxiao Luo, Chao Zheng and Yinglong Wu
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1489; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101489 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In the current study, an electronic nose (E-nose) and gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) were employed to investigate the volatile flavor compounds (VFCs) of intense flavor beef tallow (L) and ordinary beef tallow (P). The study results indicate that an E-nose combined with [...] Read more.
In the current study, an electronic nose (E-nose) and gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) were employed to investigate the volatile flavor compounds (VFCs) of intense flavor beef tallow (L) and ordinary beef tallow (P). The study results indicate that an E-nose combined with an LDA and GC-IMS combined with an OPLS-DA can effectively distinguish between the two types of beef tallow. Compared with ordinary beef tallow, the E-nose sensors of intense flavor beef tallow have stronger response signals to sulfides, terpenes, and nitrogen oxides. A total of 22 compounds contribute to making the flavor of intense flavor beef tallow more typical and richer; in contrast, ethyl acetate was the main aroma-active compound found in the ordinary beef tallow. Sulfur-containing compounds and terpenoids might be the key substances that cause sensory flavor differences between the two types of beef tallow. In conclusion, the results of this study clarify the characteristics and differences of the two types of beef tallow and provide an enhanced understanding of the differences in the flavors of the two types of beef tallow. Full article
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14 pages, 267 KiB  
Article
Patient and Family Financial Burden in Cancer: A Focus on Differences across Four Provinces, and Reduced Spending Including Decisions to Forego Care in Canada
by Christopher J. Longo, Tuhin Maity, Margaret I. Fitch and Jesse T. Young
Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(5), 2713-2726; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31050206 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Goal: This study aimed to examine provincial differences in patient spending for cancer care and reductions in household spending including decisions to forego care in Canada. Methods: Nine-hundred and one patients with cancer, from twenty cancer centers across Canada, completed a self-administered questionnaire [...] Read more.
Goal: This study aimed to examine provincial differences in patient spending for cancer care and reductions in household spending including decisions to forego care in Canada. Methods: Nine-hundred and one patients with cancer, from twenty cancer centers across Canada, completed a self-administered questionnaire (P-SAFE version 7.2.4) (344 breast, 183 colorectal, 158 lung, and 216 prostate) measuring direct and indirect costs and spending changes. Results: Provincial variations showed a high mean out-of-pocket cost (OOPC) of CAD 938 (Alberta) and a low of CAD 280 (Manitoba). Differences were influenced by age and income. Income loss was highest for Alberta (CAD 2399) and lowest for Manitoba (CAD 1126). Travel costs were highest for Alberta (CAD 294) and lowest for British Columbia (CAD 67). Parking costs were highest for Ontario (CAD 103) and lowest for Manitoba (CAD 53). A total of 41% of patients reported reducing spending, but this increased to 52% for families earning <CAD 50,000 per year. The highest national rates of decisions to forego care were in relation to vitamins/supplements, the selection made by 21.3% of those who indicated spending reductions. Reductions for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) were made by 16.3%, and for drugs, by 12.8%. Most cost categories had higher proportions of individuals who decided to forego care when family income was <CAD 50,000 per year and for patients under 65 years of age. Conclusions: Levels of financial burden for patients with cancer in Canada vary provincially, including for OOPC, travel and parking costs, and lost income. Decisions to forego cancer care are highest in relation to vitamins/supplements, CAM, and drugs. Provincial differences suggest that regional health policies and demographics may impact patients’ overall financial burden. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Economics)
12 pages, 1681 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Influence of Viral Infection on ‘Tribidrag’ Grapevines: Insights from Two Vegetation Seasons
by Mate Čarija, Matevž Likar, Silvija Černi, Tomislav Radić, Emanuel Gaši and Katarina Hančević
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050495 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the response of the grapevine variety ‘Tribidrag’ to virus infection over two vegetation seasons. Virus-free plants were greenhouse cultivated and green grafted with five different virus inocula composed of grapevine leafroll-associated virus 3 (GLRaV-3) singly [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to investigate the response of the grapevine variety ‘Tribidrag’ to virus infection over two vegetation seasons. Virus-free plants were greenhouse cultivated and green grafted with five different virus inocula composed of grapevine leafroll-associated virus 3 (GLRaV-3) singly or in coinfection with other most economically important grapevine viruses. Changes in nutrient status and photosynthesis-related parameters, along with symptom development, were measured. Using the quantitative PCR method, the relative concentration of five selected Vitis genes was determined. Cluster analysis and ANOVA revealed the reduction in phosphorus concentration (P) and photosynthesis-related parameters in infected plants in both seasons, even in the absence of symptom expression, indicating P and assimilation rate (Photo (A)) as stable markers of virus infection. Plants infected with inoculum Y composed of five different viruses provoked major significant changes in the first season while, in the second, fewer changes were measured. The sucrose synthase 3 gene was upregulated in infected plants confirming disturbed sugar metabolism related to virus-induced stress. This study showed that virus-induced changes in ‘Tribidrag’ plants even in the absence of symptoms are dependent on plant age, as well as on the composition of virus inocula. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Production of Fruit Trees and Disease Resistance)
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10 pages, 11037 KiB  
Case Report
Atypic Retinitis Pigmentosa Clinical Features Associated with a Peculiar CRX Gene Mutation in Italian Patients
by Marco Piergentili, Vito Spagnuolo, Vittoria Murro, Dario Pasquale Mucciolo, Dario Giorgio, Ilaria Passerini, Elisabetta Pelo, Fabrizio Giansanti, Gianni Virgili and Andrea Sodi
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 797; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050797 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Purpose: To describe an atypical phenotypic pattern of late-onset retinitis pigmentosa (RP) due to the same specific c.425A>G (p.Tyr142Cys) heterozygous mutation in the cone–rod homeobox gene (CRX gene) in two unrelated Italian patients. Case 1: A 67-year-old woman (P.P.) was [...] Read more.
Purpose: To describe an atypical phenotypic pattern of late-onset retinitis pigmentosa (RP) due to the same specific c.425A>G (p.Tyr142Cys) heterozygous mutation in the cone–rod homeobox gene (CRX gene) in two unrelated Italian patients. Case 1: A 67-year-old woman (P.P.) was incidentally diagnosed with sector RP at the age of 50. The patient was initially asymptomatic and did not have any family history of retinal dystrophy. Fundus examination showed the presence of typical retinal pigmentary deposits with a peculiar pericentral/sector distribution. Genomic sequencing disclosed the missense mutation c.425A>G (p.Tyr142Cys) in the CRX gene. During the follow-up period of 7 years, the patient maintained good visual acuity and complained only of mild symptoms. Case 2: A 76-year-old man (P.E.) presented with nyctalopia and visual field constriction since the age of 50. Fundus examination showed the presence of retinal pigment deposits with a concentric pericentral and perimacular pattern. A full-field electroretinogram (ffERG) showed extinguished scotopic responses and reduced abnormal photopic and flicker cone responses. Genomic sequencing identified the same missense mutation, c.425A>G (p.Tyr142Cys), in the CRX gene. Similarly to the first case, during the whole follow-up of 7 years, the visual acuity remained stable, as did the visual field and the patient’s symptoms. Conclusions: We report the first cases of late-onset retinitis pigmentosa related to a specific heterozygous CRX gene mutation in exon 4. We also report two atypical phenotypic RP patterns related to mutations in the CRX gene. Full article
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15 pages, 5457 KiB  
Article
Improved DeepLabV3+ Network Beacon Spot Capture Methods
by Jun Liu, Xiaolong Ni, Xin Yu and Cong Li
Photonics 2024, 11(5), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics11050451 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In long-range laser communication, adaptive optics tracking systems are often used to achieve high-precision tracking. When recognizing beacon spots for tracking, the traditional threshold segmentation method is highly susceptible to segmentation errors in the face of interference. In this study, an improved DeepLabV3+ [...] Read more.
In long-range laser communication, adaptive optics tracking systems are often used to achieve high-precision tracking. When recognizing beacon spots for tracking, the traditional threshold segmentation method is highly susceptible to segmentation errors in the face of interference. In this study, an improved DeepLabV3+ network is designed for fast and accurate capture of beacon spots in complex situations. In order to speed up the inference process, the backbone of the model was rewritten as MobileNetV2. This study improves the ASPP (Atrous Spatial Pyramid Pooling) module by splicing and fusing the outputs and inputs of its different layers. Meanwhile, the original convolution in the module is rewritten as a depthwise separable convolution with a dilation rate to reduce the computational burden. CBAM (Convolutional Block Attention Module) is applied, and the focus loss function is introduced during training. The network yields an accuracy of 98.76% mean intersection over union on self-constructed beacon spot dataset, and the segmentation consumes only 12 milliseconds, which realizes the fast and high-precision capturing of beacon spots. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Directions in Adaptive Optics Technology)
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14 pages, 2032 KiB  
Article
Coordinated Control of Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyzers and Alkaline Electrolyzers for a Wind-to-Hydrogen Islanded Microgrid
by Zhanfei Li, Zhenghong Tu, Zhongkai Yi and Ying Xu
Energies 2024, 17(10), 2317; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102317 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In recent years, the development of hydrogen energy has been widely discussed, particularly in combination with renewable energy sources, enabling the production of “green” hydrogen. With the significant increase in wind power generation, a promising solution for obtaining green hydrogen is the development [...] Read more.
In recent years, the development of hydrogen energy has been widely discussed, particularly in combination with renewable energy sources, enabling the production of “green” hydrogen. With the significant increase in wind power generation, a promising solution for obtaining green hydrogen is the development of wind-to-hydrogen (W2H) systems. However, the high proportion of wind power and electrolyzers in a large-scale W2H system will bring about the problem of renewable energy consumption and frequency stability reduction. This paper analyzes the operational characteristics and economic feasibility of mainstream electrolyzers, leading to the proposal of a coordinated hydrogen production scheme involving both a proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer and an alkaline (ALK) electrolyzer. Subsequently, a coordinated control based on Model Predictive Control (MPC) is proposed for system frequency regulation in a large-scale W2H islanded microgrid. Finally, simulation results demonstrate that the system under PEM/ALK electrolyzers coordinated control not only flexibly accommodates fluctuating wind power but also maintains frequency stability in the face of large disturbances. Compared with the traditional system with all ALK electrolyzers, the frequency deviation of this system is reduced by 25%, the regulation time is shortened by 80%, and the demand for an energy storage system (ESS) is reduced. The result validates the effectiveness of MPC and the benefits of the PEM/ALK electrolyzers coordinated hydrogen production scheme. Full article
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