The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
22 pages, 319 KiB  
Article
The More Democracy, the Better? On Whether Democracy Makes Societies Open
by Cristian López
Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(5), 261; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13050261 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
It is a common view that Popper’s defense of the open society has been a defense of Western, liberal democracies. This seems to imply that by fostering democratic institutions we are ipso facto fostering open societies. I criticize this view by arguing that [...] Read more.
It is a common view that Popper’s defense of the open society has been a defense of Western, liberal democracies. This seems to imply that by fostering democratic institutions we are ipso facto fostering open societies. I criticize this view by arguing that in-built incentives in democratic mechanisms move us away from (or hamper) the open society. Democracy promotes voters’ ignorance, indulges voters’ irrationality, and allows voters to externalize costs. This is contrary to well-informed, rational decisions and personal responsibility that lie at the fundamentals of the open society. I suggest that it has been free-market capitalism, or free-market societies, which has moved us closer to the ideal of the open society and which best realizes open society’s values. Full article
21 pages, 28192 KiB  
Article
Spatio-Temporal Evolution and Multi-Scenario Simulation of Non-Grain Production on Cultivated Land in Jiangsu Province, China
by Chengge Jiang, Lingzhi Wang, Wenhua Guo, Huiling Chen, Anqi Liang, Mingying Sun, Xinyao Li and Hichem Omrani
Land 2024, 13(5), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050670 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Cultivated land plays a crucial role as the basis of grain production, and it is essential to effectively manage the unregulated expansion of non-grain production (NGP) on cultivated land in order to safeguard food security. The study of NGP has garnered significant attention [...] Read more.
Cultivated land plays a crucial role as the basis of grain production, and it is essential to effectively manage the unregulated expansion of non-grain production (NGP) on cultivated land in order to safeguard food security. The study of NGP has garnered significant attention from scholars, but the prediction of NGP trends is relatively uncommon. Therefore, we focused on Jiangsu Province, a significant grain production region in China, as the study area. We extracted data on cultivated land for non-grain production (NGPCL) in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2019, and calculated the ratio of non-grain production (NGPR) for each county unit in the province. On this basis, Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and spatial autocorrelation analysis tools were utilized to uncover the spatio-temporal evolution of NGP in Jiangsu Province. Finally, the Patch-Generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model was utilized to predict the trend of NGP in Jiangsu Province in 2038 under the three development scenarios of natural development (NDS), cultivated land protection (CPS), and food security (FSS). After analyzing the results, we came to the following conclusions:(1) During the period of 2000–2019, the NGPCL area and NGPR in Jiangsu Province exhibited a general decreasing trend. (2) The level of NGP displayed a spatial distribution pattern of being “higher in the south and central and lower in the north”. (3) The results of multi-scenario simulation show that under the NDS, the area of NGPCL and cultivated land for grain production (GPCL) decreases significantly; under the CPS, the decrease in NGPCL and GPCL is smaller than that of the NDS. Under the FSS, NGPCL decreases, while GPCL increases. These results can provide reference for the implementation of land use planning, the delineation of the cultivated land protection bottom line, and the implementation of thee cultivated land use control system in the study area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Socio-Economic Values in Land Resource Management)
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15 pages, 5671 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Hydrogen-Storage Properties of MgH2 Catalyzed via a Cerium Doped TiCrV BCC Alloy
by Houqun Xiao, Xiaoxuan Zhang, Chenyu Li, Yuehai Li, Chuanming Ma, Ruixiang Wang, Luocai Yi and Qingjun Chen
Metals 2024, 14(5), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14050572 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
In this work, Ce-doped Ti6Cr14V80 BCC hydrogen-storage alloys have been synthesized as catalysts to enhance the hydrogen-storage performance of MgH2 based on its room-temperature activation features and excellent durability. The Ti6Cr14V80Ce [...] Read more.
In this work, Ce-doped Ti6Cr14V80 BCC hydrogen-storage alloys have been synthesized as catalysts to enhance the hydrogen-storage performance of MgH2 based on its room-temperature activation features and excellent durability. The Ti6Cr14V80Ce1 alloy was pre-ball milled under a hydrogen atmosphere into a Ti6Cr14V80Ce1Hx hydride. Different amounts of the Ti6Cr14V80Ce1Hx hydride were incorporated into MgH2 by ball milling to obtain the MgH2 + y wt%Ti6Cr14V80Ce1Hx (y = 0, 3, 5, 10, 15) nano-composites. With an optimization doping of 10 wt%Ti6Cr14V80Ce1Hx, the initial dehydrogenated temperature was decreased to 160 °C. Moreover, the composite can rapidly release 6.73 wt% H2 within 8 min at 230 °C. Also, it can absorb 2.0 wt% H2 within 1 h even at room temperature and uptake 4.86 wt% H2 within 10 s at 125 °C. In addition, the apparent dehydrogenated activation energy of the MgH2 + 10 wt%Ti6Cr14V80Ce1Hx composite was calculated to be 62.62 kJ mol−1 fitted by the JMAK model. The capacity retention was kept as 84% after 100 cycles at 300 °C. The ball milled Ti6Cr14V80Ce1Hx transformed from the initial FCC phase structure into a BCC phase after complete dehydrogenation and back into an FCC phase when fullly hydrogenated. A catalyst mechanism analysis revealed that the ‘autocatalytic effect’ originating in Ti6Cr14V80Ce1Hx plays a crucial role in boosting the de-/hydrogenation properties of MgH2. This work provides meaningful insights into rational designs of nano-compositing with different hydrogen-storage alloy catalyzed MgH2. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metallic Functional Materials)
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19 pages, 2950 KiB  
Article
The Impact of High-Standard Farmland Construction Policies on the Carbon Emissions from Agricultural Land Use (CEALU)
by Fangsheng Liu and Jian Lin
Land 2024, 13(5), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050672 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Agricultural activities are the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, and carbon emissions from agricultural land use (CEALU) have become a hot issue across the world. Although there are some studies on the impact of high-standard farmland construction policies on carbon emissions, [...] Read more.
Agricultural activities are the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, and carbon emissions from agricultural land use (CEALU) have become a hot issue across the world. Although there are some studies on the impact of high-standard farmland construction policies on carbon emissions, they focus on quantitative analysis and do not give sufficient consideration to the relationship between HSFC and CEALU. Therefore, in this study, by relying on provincial panel data of China for the period 2005–2017, the effect of the high-standard basic farmland construction policy on carbon emissions from agricultural land use per unit area and its regional differences were quantitatively analyzed using the difference-in-difference (DID) model. The results showed that: (1) China’s CEALU per unit area presented a fluctuating upward change, but the growth rate slowed down during the period 2005–2017, from 392.58 kg/ha to 457.72 kg/ha, with an average annual growth rate of 1.31%; (2) the high-standard farmland construction (HSFC) policy led a significant carbon emission reduction effect in agricultural land use and reduced the CEALU per unit area by 10.80% on average. With the promotion of this policy, its carbon emission reduction effect in agricultural land use presented an overall increasing change; (3) the carbon emission reduction effect of the high-standard farmland construction policy in agricultural land use was significant in central China, but non-significant in eastern China and western China. Full article
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16 pages, 6038 KiB  
Article
Preparations and Thermal Properties of PDMS-AlN-Al2O3 Composites through the Incorporation of Poly(Catechol-Amine)-Modified Boron Nitride Nanotubes
by Arni Gesselle Pornea, Duy Khoe Dinh, Zahid Hanif, Numan Yanar, Ki-In Choi, Min Seok Kwak and Jaewoo Kim
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 847; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100847 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
As one of the emerging nanomaterials, boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) provide promising opportunities for diverse applications due to their unique properties, such as high thermal conductivity, immense inertness, and high-temperature durability, while the instability of BNNTs due to their high surface induces agglomerates [...] Read more.
As one of the emerging nanomaterials, boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) provide promising opportunities for diverse applications due to their unique properties, such as high thermal conductivity, immense inertness, and high-temperature durability, while the instability of BNNTs due to their high surface induces agglomerates susceptible to the loss of their advantages. Therefore, the proper functionalization of BNNTs is crucial to highlight their fundamental characteristics. Herein, a simplistic low-cost approach of BNNT surface modification through catechol-polyamine (CAPA) interfacial polymerization is postulated to improve its dispersibility on the polymeric matrix. The modified BNNT was assimilated as a filler additive with AlN/Al2O3 filling materials in a PDMS polymeric matrix to prepare a thermal interface material (TIM). The resulting composite exhibits a heightened isotropic thermal conductivity of 8.10 W/mK, which is a ~47.27% increase compared to pristine composite 5.50 W/mK, and this can be ascribed to the improved BNNT dispersion forming interconnected phonon pathways and the thermal interface resistance reduction due to its augmented compatibility with the polymeric matrix. Moreover, the fabricated composite manifests a fire resistance improvement of ~10% in LOI relative to the neat composite sample, which can be correlated to the thermal stability shift in the TGA and DTA data. An enhancement in thermal permanence is stipulated due to a melting point (Tm) shift of ∼38.5 °C upon the integration of BNNT-CAPA. This improvement can be associated with the good distribution and adhesion of BNNT-CAPA in the polymeric matrix, integrated with its inherent thermal stability, good charring capability, and free radical scavenging effect due to the presence of CAPA on its surface. This study offers new insights into BNNT utilization and its corresponding incorporation into the polymeric matrix, which provides a prospective direction in the preparation of multifunctional materials for electric devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermally Conductive Nanomaterials and Their Applications)
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20 pages, 299 KiB  
Article
Mental Healthcare Needs and Experiences of LGBT+ Individuals in Malaysia: Utility, Enablers, and Barriers
by Sheau Huey Ho, Amirul Hakim Shamsudin, Jun Wei Liow, Johan Ariff Juhari, Sai Ang Ling and Kyle Tan
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100998 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Access to mental healthcare is undoubtedly of major importance for LGBT+ people worldwide, given the high prevalence of mental health difficulties due to minority stress exposures. This study drew mixed-method survey data from the community-based KAMI Survey (n = 696) to examine [...] Read more.
Access to mental healthcare is undoubtedly of major importance for LGBT+ people worldwide, given the high prevalence of mental health difficulties due to minority stress exposures. This study drew mixed-method survey data from the community-based KAMI Survey (n = 696) to examine the enablers, barriers, and unmet needs experiences of LGBT+ individuals in accessing mental healthcare services in Malaysia. First, we present findings from a series of descriptive analyses for sociodemographic differences in unmet needs for mental healthcare, barriers, and satisfaction levels with different types of mental healthcare. Next, we conducted an inductive thematic analysis of open-text comments (n = 273), with relevance drawn to Andersen’s Behavioural Model of Healthcare. More than a quarter (29.5%) reported an unmet need for mental healthcare, and some groups (younger, asexual or queer, or participants living in non-major cities) reported higher unmet needs. More than three-fifths (60.5%) reported not knowing where to find culturally safe mental health professionals. The thematic analysis uncovered key contextual (e.g., mental health practitioners’ stance, stigma, collaborative client-care) and individual (e.g., positive expectation of mental health services and anticipated stigma) attributes that influence healthcare experiences. Participants also identified resources that facilitate healthcare utilisation, such as affordability, availability of suitable professionals, and geographical considerations. The implications of our findings for the mental healthcare practices in Malaysia were outlined. Full article
19 pages, 280 KiB  
Review
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
by Petar Uchikov, Usman Khalid, Nikola Vankov, Maria Kraeva, Krasimir Kraev, Bozhidar Hristov, Milena Sandeva, Snezhanka Dragusheva, Dzhevdet Chakarov, Petko Petrov, Bistra Dobreva-Yatseva and Ivan Novakov
Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14101004 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Background and objectives: This review aims to delve into the role of artificial intelligence in medicine. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by superficial mucosal inflammation, rectal bleeding, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. By identifying the challenges inherent in [...] Read more.
Background and objectives: This review aims to delve into the role of artificial intelligence in medicine. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by superficial mucosal inflammation, rectal bleeding, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. By identifying the challenges inherent in UC diagnosis, we seek to highlight the potential impact of artificial intelligence on enhancing both diagnosis and treatment methodologies for this condition. Method: A targeted, non-systematic review of literature relating to ulcerative colitis was undertaken. The PubMed and Scopus databases were searched to categorize a well-rounded understanding of the field of artificial intelligence and its developing role in the diagnosis and treatment of ulcerative colitis. Articles that were thought to be relevant were included. This paper only included articles published in English. Results: Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to computer algorithms capable of learning, problem solving and decision-making. Throughout our review, we highlighted the role and importance of artificial intelligence in modern medicine, emphasizing its role in diagnosis through AI-assisted endoscopies and histology analysis and its enhancements in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Despite these advances, AI is still hindered due to its current lack of adaptability to real-world scenarios and its difficulty in widespread data availability, which hinders the growth of AI-led data analysis. Conclusions: When considering the potential of artificial intelligence, its ability to enhance patient care from a diagnostic and therapeutic perspective shows signs of promise. For the true utilization of artificial intelligence, some roadblocks must be addressed. The datasets available to AI may not truly reflect the real-world, which would prevent its impact in all clinical scenarios when dealing with a spectrum of patients with different backgrounds and presenting factors. Considering this, the shift in medical diagnostics and therapeutics is coinciding with evolving technology. With a continuous advancement in artificial intelligence programming and a perpetual surge in patient datasets, these networks can be further enhanced and supplemented with a greater cohort, enabling better outcomes and prediction models for the future of modern medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostics)
14 pages, 1176 KiB  
Article
Cancer Classification from Gene Expression Using Ensemble Learning with an Influential Feature Selection Technique
by Nusrath Tabassum, Md Abdus Samad Kamal, M. A. H. Akhand and Kou Yamada
BioMedInformatics 2024, 4(2), 1275-1288; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedinformatics4020070 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Uncontrolled abnormal cell growth, known as cancer, may lead to tumors, immune system deterioration, and other fatal disability. Early cancer identification makes cancer treatment easier and increases the recovery rate, resulting in less mortality. Gene expression data play a crucial role in cancer [...] Read more.
Uncontrolled abnormal cell growth, known as cancer, may lead to tumors, immune system deterioration, and other fatal disability. Early cancer identification makes cancer treatment easier and increases the recovery rate, resulting in less mortality. Gene expression data play a crucial role in cancer classification at an early stage. Accurate cancer classification is a complex and challenging task due to the high-dimensional nature of the gene expression data relative to the small sample size. This research proposes using a dimensionality-reduction technique to address this limitation. Specifically, the mutual information (MI) technique is first utilized to select influential biomarker genes. Next, an ensemble learning model is applied to the reduced dataset using only the most influential features (genes) to develop an effective cancer classification model. The bagging method, where the base classifiers are Multilayer Perceptrons (MLPs), is chosen as an ensemble technique. The proposed cancer classification model, the MI-Bagging method, is applied to several benchmark gene expression datasets containing distinctive cancer classes. The cancer classification accuracy of the proposed model is compared with the relevant existing methods. The experimental results indicate that the proposed model outperforms the existing methods, and it is effective and competent for cancer classification despite the limited size of gene expression data with high dimensionality. The highest accuracy achieved by the proposed method demonstrates that the proposed emerging gene-expression-based cancer classifier has the potential to help in cancer treatment and lead to a higher cancer survival rate in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Applied Biomedical Data Science)
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16 pages, 10525 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Dynamic Invasion Pattern of the Black-Headed Fall Webworm in China: Susceptibility to Topography, Vegetation, and Human Activities
by Fan Shao, Jie Pan, Xinquan Ye and Gaosheng Liu
Insects 2024, 15(5), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15050349 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The fall webworm (FWW), H. cunea (Drury) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiidae), is an extremely high-risk globally invasive pest. Understanding the invasion dynamics of invasive pests and identifying the critical factors that promote their spread is essential for devising practical and efficient strategies for their [...] Read more.
The fall webworm (FWW), H. cunea (Drury) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiidae), is an extremely high-risk globally invasive pest. Understanding the invasion dynamics of invasive pests and identifying the critical factors that promote their spread is essential for devising practical and efficient strategies for their control and management. The invasion dynamics of the FWW and its influencing factors were analyzed using standard deviation ellipse and spatial autocorrelation methods. The analysis was based on statistical data on the occurrence of the FWW in China. The dissemination pattern of the FWW between 1979 and 2022 followed a sequence of “invasion-occurrence-transmission-outbreak”, spreading progressively from coastal to inland regions. Furthermore, areas with high nighttime light values, abundant ports, and non-forested areas with low vegetation cover at altitudes below 500 m were more likely to be inhabited by the black-headed FWW. The dynamic invasion pattern and the driving factors associated with the fall webworm (FWW) provide critical insights for future FWW management strategies. These strategies serve not only to regulate the dissemination of insects and diminish migratory tendencies but also to guarantee the implementation of efficient early detection systems and prompt response measures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monitoring and Management of Invasive Insect Pests)
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15 pages, 6514 KiB  
Article
Risk Assessment of Spodoptera exempta against Food Security: Estimating the Potential Global Overlapping Areas of Wheat, Maize, and Rice under Climate Change
by Ming Li, Zhenan Jin, Yuhan Qi, Haoxiang Zhao, Nianwan Yang, Jianyang Guo, Baoxiong Chen, Xiaoqing Xian and Wanxue Liu
Insects 2024, 15(5), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15050348 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Spodoptera exempta, known as the black armyworm, has been extensively documented as an invasive agricultural pest prevalent across various crop planting regions globally. However, the potential geographical distribution and the threat it poses to host crops of remains unknown at present. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Spodoptera exempta, known as the black armyworm, has been extensively documented as an invasive agricultural pest prevalent across various crop planting regions globally. However, the potential geographical distribution and the threat it poses to host crops of remains unknown at present. Therefore, we used an optimized MaxEnt model based on 841 occurrence records and 19 bioclimatic variables to predict the potential suitable areas of S. exempta under current and future climatic conditions, and the overlap with wheat, rice, and maize planting areas was assessed. The optimized model was highly reliable in predicting potential suitable areas for this pest. The results showed that high-risk distribution areas for S. exempta were mainly in developing countries, including Latin America, central South America, central Africa, and southern Asia. Moreover, for the three major global food crops, S. exempta posed the greatest risk to maize planting areas (510.78 × 104 km2), followed by rice and wheat planting areas. Under future climate scenarios, global warming will limit the distribution of S. exempta. Overall, S. exempta had the strongest effect on global maize production areas and the least on global wheat planting areas. Our study offers a scientific basis for global prevention of S. exempta and protection of agricultural crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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20 pages, 2390 KiB  
Article
Whole Black Rice Flour Improves the Physicochemical, Glycemic, and Sensory Properties of Cracker Snacks
by Alexandra Maria Uivarasan, Leonard Mihaly Cozmuta, Jasmina Lukinac, Marko Jukić, Gordana Šelo, Anca Peter, Camelia Nicula and Anca Mihaly Cozmuta
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1503; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101503 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The present study describes the enhancement of the nutritional values of gluten-free rice crackers by adding whole black rice grain flour. The crackers were prepared by combining whole brown rice flour (WRF) and whole black rice flour (BRF) in ratios of 0% (WRC), [...] Read more.
The present study describes the enhancement of the nutritional values of gluten-free rice crackers by adding whole black rice grain flour. The crackers were prepared by combining whole brown rice flour (WRF) and whole black rice flour (BRF) in ratios of 0% (WRC), 25% (25-BRC), 50% (50-BRC), 75% (75-BRC), and 100% (BRC). The resulting samples underwent in-vivo effects on postprandial blood glucose levels as well as physicochemical and sensory analysis. In comparison to WRC, the samples containing 100% added black rice flour presented higher nutritional qualities in terms of protein, by 16.61%, 8.64% for lipids, 5.61% for ash, 36.94% for crude fiber, 58.04% for total polyphenols, 95.49% for proanthocyanidins, and 88.07% for flavonoids. The addition of BRF had a suppressing effect on lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*), while redness (a*) increased. The results of the glycemic measurements confirmed that consumption of crackers made from brown or black whole-grain rice grain flour does not generate glycemic peaks above the limit of 30 mg/dL in baseline blood glucose levels. The results of developing rice crackers from black and brown flour blends showed promising physicochemical and nutritional properties and could provide a good alternative to wheat flour as a gluten-free product. Full article
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12 pages, 2737 KiB  
Article
Let the Trees ‘Talk’: Giving Voice to Nature through an Immersive Experience
by Rob Roggema
World 2024, 5(2), 313-324; https://doi.org/10.3390/world5020017 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Current decision-making regarding urban design, architecture, and spatial planning often
emphasizes existing power balances, which historically have excluded other humans, such as
indigenous people, and nature from conversations and decision-making. The purpose of this study
is to explore if and how an empathic [...] Read more.
Current decision-making regarding urban design, architecture, and spatial planning often
emphasizes existing power balances, which historically have excluded other humans, such as
indigenous people, and nature from conversations and decision-making. The purpose of this study
is to explore if and how an empathic experience could give insights into how nature can be given
a voice, and, more concretely, how a group of trees on the TEC campus in Monterrey would feel
about a sudden change in their direct environment. The methodology is divided into three parts.
The first is the explanation of the case study and immersion of the (human) participants in the site.
The second stage consists of deep listening and reproducing the imagined expressions of the trees.
In the third stage, the participants return from the site, evaluate, and formulate a manifesto. The
experience suggests that it is possible to inspire human beings to imagine what trees would have to
say if we only imagined their language. It also shows that it is possible to gain access to a formerly
hidden environment. The conclusion is that the empathic access to these formerly muted worlds,
such as those of nature or socially marginalized peoples, can strengthen our understanding of, and
our ability to resolve, the current environmental crisis. Full article
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5 pages, 422 KiB  
Opinion
EU HTA Regulation and Joint Clinical Assessment—Threat or Opportunity?
by Volker Schuster
J. Mark. Access Health Policy 2024, 12(2), 100-104; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmahp12020008 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The vision of a unified European HTA is by no means a new endeavor. At its core are the publicly declared ambitions to harmonize assessments of clinical data within the EU and avoid the duplication of efforts. Not surprisingly, these ambitions are publicly [...] Read more.
The vision of a unified European HTA is by no means a new endeavor. At its core are the publicly declared ambitions to harmonize assessments of clinical data within the EU and avoid the duplication of efforts. Not surprisingly, these ambitions are publicly announced to be motivating the new 2022 EU HTA regulation. However, industry experts typically see more of a risk for additional bureaucracy resulting in delays, further scrutiny, and one additional EU (clinical) dossier to submit on top of all national HTA dossiers, which could be considered a duplication of effort and therefore counterproductive. Regardless of how the details of the process will be defined and how the entire process will work in practice, we can be sure that EU officials will refer to the EU HTA and Joint Clinical Assessment (JCA) in particular as a learning system. The purpose of this article is to take a closer look at the new EU HTA regulation and analyze threats and opportunities for manufacturers and what the resulting opportunities and threats will be at the affiliate level throughout the EU. Full article
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17 pages, 3702 KiB  
Review
Failure of Autophagy in Pompe Disease
by Hung Do, Naresh K. Meena and Nina Raben
Biomolecules 2024, 14(5), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14050573 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved lysosome-dependent degradation of cytoplasmic constituents. The system operates as a critical cellular pro-survival mechanism in response to nutrient deprivation and a variety of stress conditions. On top of that, autophagy is involved in maintaining cellular homeostasis through selective [...] Read more.
Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved lysosome-dependent degradation of cytoplasmic constituents. The system operates as a critical cellular pro-survival mechanism in response to nutrient deprivation and a variety of stress conditions. On top of that, autophagy is involved in maintaining cellular homeostasis through selective elimination of worn-out or damaged proteins and organelles. The autophagic pathway is largely responsible for the delivery of cytosolic glycogen to the lysosome where it is degraded to glucose via acid α-glucosidase. Although the physiological role of lysosomal glycogenolysis is not fully understood, its significance is highlighted by the manifestations of Pompe disease, which is caused by a deficiency of this lysosomal enzyme. Pompe disease is a severe lysosomal glycogen storage disorder that affects skeletal and cardiac muscles most. In this review, we discuss the basics of autophagy and describe its involvement in the pathogenesis of muscle damage in Pompe disease. Finally, we outline how autophagic pathology in the diseased muscles can be used as a tool to fast track the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. Full article
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17 pages, 4890 KiB  
Article
Development and Application of PIKH-Type Current Sensors to Prevent Improper Opening of Parallelly Connected DC Vacuum Circuit Breakers
by Łukasz Nowak and Piotr Borkowski
Energies 2024, 17(10), 2339; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102339 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
This article describes the development of current sensors used in DCU-type high-speed circuit breakers. DCU-type circuit breakers use the principle of turning off a constant short-circuit current by means of countercurrent. The article presents a new current sensor design called PIKh, which uses [...] Read more.
This article describes the development of current sensors used in DCU-type high-speed circuit breakers. DCU-type circuit breakers use the principle of turning off a constant short-circuit current by means of countercurrent. The article presents a new current sensor design called PIKh, which uses Hall sensors to measure current and determine its direction. PIKh sensors allow parallel operation of high-speed circuit breakers during the “parking” operation. The article includes the algorithm and principle of operation of the PIKh sensor. The proposed solution was verified on an electric traction vehicle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section F: Electrical Engineering)
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13 pages, 197 KiB  
Article
Promotion and Advancement of Data Security Governance in China
by Bing Chen and Yongji Liu
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1905; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101905 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
In this age of digital economy, issues relating to the data security and personal privacy of multimedia systems are increasingly manifesting in the form of unprotected data. The level of governance capability for data protection determines whether the data security and personal privacy [...] Read more.
In this age of digital economy, issues relating to the data security and personal privacy of multimedia systems are increasingly manifesting in the form of unprotected data. The level of governance capability for data protection determines whether the data security and personal privacy of multimedia systems can be protected and developed in the future. In recent years, China has introduced laws and regulations on the protection of personal information, personal privacy, data security, and cybersecurity. Although data protection still needs to be improved, China has been refining the framework and provisions on data security governance through certain practices and the adoption of supporting regulations. The country aims to rapidly promote the current governance capability of data security and gradually form a good institutional environment to support international collaboration in the realm of global data security. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Security and Privacy for Multimedia Systems)
4 pages, 1838 KiB  
Interesting Images
Images of Extremely Rare Cantrell Phenomenon
by Artur Fabijan, Sara Korabiewska-Pluta, Tomasz Puzio, Bartosz Polis and Tomasz Moszura
Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14101003 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
We present a case of a neonate born with prenatal diagnosis of Cantrell syndrome and ectopia cordis. This extremely rare congenital disorder underscores the significant need for multimodality imaging to plan further management. The aim of the study was to present the thoracoabdominal [...] Read more.
We present a case of a neonate born with prenatal diagnosis of Cantrell syndrome and ectopia cordis. This extremely rare congenital disorder underscores the significant need for multimodality imaging to plan further management. The aim of the study was to present the thoracoabdominal syndrome using a three-dimensional computed tomography angiography. The CT scans confirmed complex intracardiac defects consisting of tetralogy of Fallot, total anomalous pulmonary venous return and persistent left superior vena cava. In conclusion, Cantrell syndrome necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, from the onset of the prenatal diagnosis followed by prompt medical imaging and surgical interventions after birth. The thoracoabdominal wall defect including complete ectopia cordis is an extremely rare disorder with a fatal outcome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
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13 pages, 1865 KiB  
Article
A Novel Method for the Highly Effective Removal of Binary Dyes from Colored Dyeing Wastewater by Periodic Reversal/Direct Current-Activated Persulfate
by Zhaonan Sun, Wenjie Ren, Ke Shi, Wei Kou and Yujie Feng
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4057; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104057 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
In recent years, electrochemical synergistic activation of persulfate (PDS) degradation technology has demonstrated significant potential in wastewater treatment applications. Given the challenges posed by the complex water quality, high COD content, and recalcitrant degradation of dyeing wastewater, this study aimed to evaluate the [...] Read more.
In recent years, electrochemical synergistic activation of persulfate (PDS) degradation technology has demonstrated significant potential in wastewater treatment applications. Given the challenges posed by the complex water quality, high COD content, and recalcitrant degradation of dyeing wastewater, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of iron/aluminum dual-electrode electrochemical activation of PDS for degrading simulated dyeing wastewater. The results showed that under optimal conditions, utilizing both periodic reversal and direct current electrochemical activation of PDS achieved removal rates of 99.2% and 98.3% for Reactive Black 5 (RB5) and Reactive Red X-3B (RRX-3B), respectively, demonstrating promising removal efficiency. Notably, the removal efficiency of RB5 surpassed that of RRX-3B, suggesting a dependence on initial concentration influencing reaction kinetics. Furthermore, full-spectrum scanning and quenching experiments revealed that RB5 and RRX-3B were primarily degraded through the potent oxidation action of SO4· and ·OH, with a small number of intermediates present in the solution. Periodic reversal proved effective in mitigating electrode passivation and enhancing electrode longevity. This study provides a highly effective removal method of binary dyes from dyeing wastewater by periodic reversal Fe-Al dual-electrode electrochemical activation of PDS technology, offering valuable insights for sustainable treatment of dyeing wastewater with binary components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pollution Prevention, Mitigation and Sustainability)
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18 pages, 2904 KiB  
Article
An Evaluation of the Environmental Impact of Logistics Activities: A Case Study of a Logistics Centre
by Constantin-Adrian Popescu, Ana Maria Ifrim, Catalin Ionut Silvestru, Tiberiu Gabriel Dobrescu and Catalin Petcu
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4061; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104061 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Lately, the logistics sector has seen accelerated development, which has led to general economic growth, but, at the same time, it has caused considerable environmental damage due to the excessive consumption and emissions that are currently affecting society at large. Since logistics activities [...] Read more.
Lately, the logistics sector has seen accelerated development, which has led to general economic growth, but, at the same time, it has caused considerable environmental damage due to the excessive consumption and emissions that are currently affecting society at large. Since logistics activities are considered some of the most polluting economic activities, this present article aims to present the advantages of implementing the green logistics concept. To this purpose, the activity of a logistics centre in Romania was analysed, with a focus on the greenhouse gases (GHGs) produced as a consequence of this economic activity, and its carbon footprint was calculated according to the GHG Protocol. Although this global standard is based on an integrated approach to how GHG emissions are calculated, there is limited evidence about its degree of implementation by companies. The results of the analysis revealed that the consumption of energy and fuel by the logistics sector has a significant impact on the environment. This impact is maintained, albeit at a smaller scale, even if the technology is replaced and the equipment used by companies to carry out their activities is increasingly performant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing the Circular Economy—The Path to Sustainability)
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23 pages, 4276 KiB  
Article
Drug Integrating Amphiphilic Nano-Assemblies: 2. Spatiotemporal Distribution within Inflammation Sites
by Teresa De Toni, Teodora Dal Buono, Chris M. Li, Grisell C. Gonzalez, Sung-Ting Chuang, Peter Buchwald, Alice A. Tomei and Diana Velluto
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(5), 652; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16050652 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The need for chronic systemic immunosuppression, which is associated with unavoidable side-effects, greatly limits the applicability of allogeneic cell transplantation for regenerative medicine applications including pancreatic islet cell transplantation to restore insulin production in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Cell transplantation in confined sites [...] Read more.
The need for chronic systemic immunosuppression, which is associated with unavoidable side-effects, greatly limits the applicability of allogeneic cell transplantation for regenerative medicine applications including pancreatic islet cell transplantation to restore insulin production in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Cell transplantation in confined sites enables the localized delivery of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory drugs to prevent graft loss by innate and adaptive immunity, providing an opportunity to achieve local effects while minimizing unwanted systemic side effects. Nanoparticles can provide the means to achieve the needed localized and sustained drug delivery either by graft targeting or co-implantation. Here, we evaluated the potential of our versatile platform of drug-integrating amphiphilic nanomaterial assemblies (DIANAs) for targeted drug delivery to an inflamed site model relevant for islet transplantation. We tested either passive targeting of intravenous administered spherical nanomicelles (nMIC; 20–25 nm diameter) or co-implantation of elongated nanofibrils (nFIB; 5 nm diameter and >1 μm length). To assess the ability of nMIC and nFIB to target an inflamed graft site, we used a lipophilic fluorescent cargo (DiD and DiR) and evaluated the in vivo biodistribution and cellular uptake in the graft site and other organs, including draining and non-draining lymph nodes, after systemic administration (nMIC) and/or graft co-transplantation (nFIB) in mice. Localized inflammation was generated either by using an LPS injection or by using biomaterial-coated islet-like bead implantation in the subcutaneous site. A cell transplant inflammation model was used as well to test nMIC- and nFIB-targeted biodistribution. We found that nMIC can reach the inflamed site after systemic administration, while nFIB remains localized for several days after co-implantation. We confirmed that DIANAs are taken up by different immune cell populations responsible for graft inflammation. Therefore, DIANA is a useful approach for targeted and/or localized delivery of immunomodulatory drugs to decrease innate and adaptive immune responses that cause graft loss after transplantation of therapeutic cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Self-Assembled Amphiphilic Copolymers in Drug Delivery, 2nd Edition)
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34 pages, 1618 KiB  
Review
Bioactive Compounds Protect Mammalian Reproductive Cells from Xenobiotics and Heat Stress-Induced Oxidative Distress via Nrf2 Signaling Activation: A Narrative Review
by Muhammad Zahoor Khan, Adnan Khan, Bingjian Huang, Ren Wei, Xiyan Kou, Xinrui Wang, Wenting Chen, Liangliang Li, Muhammad Zahoor and Changfa Wang
Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050597 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defenses. It poses a significant threat to the physiological function of reproductive cells. Factors such as xenobiotics and heat can worsen this stress, [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defenses. It poses a significant threat to the physiological function of reproductive cells. Factors such as xenobiotics and heat can worsen this stress, leading to cellular damage and apoptosis, ultimately decreasing reproductive efficiency. The nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in defending against oxidative stress and protecting reproductive cells via enhancing antioxidant responses. Dysregulation of Nrf2 signaling has been associated with infertility and suboptimal reproductive performance in mammals. Recent advancements in therapeutic interventions have underscored the critical role of Nrf2 in mitigating oxidative damage and restoring the functional integrity of reproductive cells. In this narrative review, we delineate the harmful effects of heat and xenobiotic-induced oxidative stress on reproductive cells and explain how Nrf2 signaling provides protection against these challenges. Recent studies have shown that activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway using various bioactive compounds can ameliorate heat stress and xenobiotic-induced oxidative distress and apoptosis in mammalian reproductive cells. By comprehensively analyzing the existing literature, we propose Nrf2 as a key therapeutic target for mitigating oxidative damage and apoptosis in reproductive cells caused by exposure to xenobiotic exposure and heat stress. Additionally, based on the synthesis of these findings, we discuss the potential of therapies focused on the Nrf2 signaling pathway to improve mammalian reproductive efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Antioxidants for Animal Nutrition—2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 27989 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Application of Blast Furnace Slag in the Field of 3D Printing: Material Configuration and Machine Optimization
by Dongsheng Li, Xinyun Cui, Jung-sik Jang and Guoxian Wang
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4058; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104058 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Blast furnace slag is an industrial waste. Its disposition is generally by means of landfilling or stacking, which goes against the concept of sustainable development. In order to maximize its reuse and abate its adverse effects on the natural environment, this study innovated [...] Read more.
Blast furnace slag is an industrial waste. Its disposition is generally by means of landfilling or stacking, which goes against the concept of sustainable development. In order to maximize its reuse and abate its adverse effects on the natural environment, this study innovated a solution of using blast furnace slag to produce 3D printing materials. Blast furnace slag was mixed with desulfurization gypsum to adapt to the operation of 3D printers. The mixture has fluidity, viscosity, and hydraulicity. Fluidity allows the mixture to smoothly pass through the transportation pipeline and nozzle of the machine; viscosity ensures that the extruded mixture is gradually stacked and settled; hydraulicity guarantees that the mixture solidifies and forms completely solid objects after dehydration and drying. Fully suitable 3D printers are rare in the market. Therefore, the printing nozzle and reserve device of the 3D printer were designed and improved in this study according to the material characteristics, enhancing the smoothness of the mixture during 3D printing. The sustainable application of blast furnace slag in the field of 3D printing not only favors diminishing environmental pollution and resource consumption but also provides a further sustainable production method for human beings. Full article
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11 pages, 2241 KiB  
Article
Toxicity, Oxidative Stress, and Tissue Distribution of Butachlor in the Juvenile Chinese Mitten Crab (Eriocheir sinensis)
by Song Wu, Peng Wang, Ying Zhang, Li Huang, Qirui Hao, Lei Gao, Dongli Qin and Xiaoli Huang
Fishes 2024, 9(5), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9050177 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) is one of the most commercially important crustacean species in China. The aim of this study was to characterize the toxic effects of butachlor (an herbicide of the acetanilide class) on juvenile E. sinensis crabs. [...] Read more.
The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) is one of the most commercially important crustacean species in China. The aim of this study was to characterize the toxic effects of butachlor (an herbicide of the acetanilide class) on juvenile E. sinensis crabs. The lethal effects and the acute toxicity of butachlor on juvenile E. sinensis specimens were assessed through a semi-static in vitro experiment. We determined the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) as well as the levels of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the gills and the hepatopancreas of the juvenile crabs, at different time points over a 14-day short-term exposure to butachlor. Moreover, we measured the residual levels of butachlor in three different tissues (gills, hepatopancreas, and muscles) of the juvenile crabs over a longer period. Our findings revealed that butachlor is highly toxic for juvenile E. sinensis crabs. In fact, the median lethal concentration (LC50) values of butachlor at 24, 48, 72, and 96 h were found to be 4.22, 1.84, 0.34, and 0.14 mg/L, respectively, while the safe concentration was 0.014 mg/L. The antioxidant defense ability of the juvenile E. sinensis crabs against butachlor was induced after exposure to the herbicide at a concentration of 0.01 mg/L. After 14 days of exposure to butachlor at 0.04 and 0.16 mg/L, both SOD and CAT were found to be significantly inhibited (p < 0.05), the GSH levels were found to be significantly decreased (p < 0.05) and the MDA levels were identified as significantly increased (p < 0.05). Moreover, after 14 days of exposure to butachlor at 0.16 mg/L, the activities of SOD and CAT as well as the content of GSH in the hepatopancreas were found to be significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Our results revealed that a high concentration of butachlor was capable of inducing oxidative stress and damage in juvenile E. sinensis crabs. The maximal residual value of butachlor was obtained in the gills, with a content of 4.56 μg/kg. Butachlor was not detected after 24 days in the aforementioned three tissues of the juvenile crabs, thereby indicating that it was effectively metabolized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Crab Fisheries)
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