Advancing Open Science
for more than 25 years
Supporting academic communities
since 1996
 
21 pages, 331 KiB  
Article
All or Nothing: Polemicizing God and the Buddhist Void in the Jesuit Mission to East Asia
by James Matthew Baskind
Religions 2024, 15(4), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15040424 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The Jesuit mission to East Asia highlights the polemical difficulties inherent in the process of introducing, translating, and creating a new theological paradigm within a host culture without a common religious worldview. Both Matteo Ricci in China and Ricci’s erstwhile teacher, Alessandro Valignano, [...] Read more.
The Jesuit mission to East Asia highlights the polemical difficulties inherent in the process of introducing, translating, and creating a new theological paradigm within a host culture without a common religious worldview. Both Matteo Ricci in China and Ricci’s erstwhile teacher, Alessandro Valignano, in Japan, both inveighed against Buddhism for positing a “void” as the Absolute rather than God. The East Asian Jesuit mission had an incomplete understanding of what emptiness/nothingness/void referred to until the native Japanese convert and former Zen monk, Fukansai Habian, took up the mantle as the Jesuit polemicist against native systems of thought, in particular, Buddhism. Whereas Ricci and Valignano attacked the “void” within the context of a negation of “something”, Habian correctly understood the void as akin to the pleroma, the fullness of possibility, and the creative principle, but used his more nuanced understanding as a polemical expedient to deny or negate all Buddhist doctrines as expressing nothingness (which he erroneously equates with the void), even such form-affirming schools as the Pure Land school with its clearly defined goal of a physical post-mortem Pure Land. The polemical paradigm engendered by this encounter also served as the starting point for Buddhism’s appearance in the Western imagination. This paper will make a comparative investigation of the polemical discourse between the Jesuits and Buddhists regarding the Absolute and demonstrate how this historical instance would have far-reaching consequences that have ongoing relevance regarding the interplay of Christian and Buddhist teachings. Full article
16 pages, 6044 KiB  
Article
Reducing State Conflicts between Network Motifs Synergistically Enhances Cancer Drug Effects and Overcomes Adaptive Resistance
by Yunseong Kim, Sea Rom Choi and Kwang-Hyun Cho
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1337; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071337 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Inducing apoptosis in cancer cells is a primary goal in anti-cancer therapy, but curing cancer with a single drug is unattainable due to drug resistance. The complex molecular network in cancer cells causes heterogeneous responses to single-target drugs, thereby inducing an adaptive drug [...] Read more.
Inducing apoptosis in cancer cells is a primary goal in anti-cancer therapy, but curing cancer with a single drug is unattainable due to drug resistance. The complex molecular network in cancer cells causes heterogeneous responses to single-target drugs, thereby inducing an adaptive drug response. Here, we showed that targeted drug perturbations can trigger state conflicts between multi-stable motifs within a molecular regulatory network, resulting in heterogeneous drug responses. However, we revealed that properly regulating an interconnecting molecule between these motifs can synergistically minimize the heterogeneous responses and overcome drug resistance. We extracted the essential cellular response dynamics of the Boolean network driven by the target node perturbation and developed an algorithm to identify a synergistic combinatorial target that can reduce heterogeneous drug responses. We validated the proposed approach using exemplary network models and a gastric cancer model from a previous study by showing that the targets identified with our algorithm can better drive the networks to desired states than those with other control theories. Of note, our approach suggests a new synergistic pair of control targets that can increase cancer drug efficacy to overcome adaptive drug resistance. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
14 pages, 4903 KiB  
Article
Ensemble Forecasts of Extreme Flood Events with Weather Forecasts, Land Surface Modeling and Deep Learning
by Yuxiu Liu, Xing Yuan, Yang Jiao, Peng Ji, Chaoqun Li and Xindai An
Water 2024, 16(7), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16070990 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Integrating numerical weather forecasts that provide ensemble precipitation forecasts, land surface hydrological modeling that resolves surface and subsurface hydrological processes, and artificial intelligence techniques that correct the forecast bias, known as the “meteo-hydro-AI” approach, has emerged as a popular flood forecast method. However, [...] Read more.
Integrating numerical weather forecasts that provide ensemble precipitation forecasts, land surface hydrological modeling that resolves surface and subsurface hydrological processes, and artificial intelligence techniques that correct the forecast bias, known as the “meteo-hydro-AI” approach, has emerged as a popular flood forecast method. However, its performance during extreme flood events across different interval basins has received less attention. Here, we evaluated the meteo-hydro-AI approach for forecasting extreme flood events from headwater to downstream sub-basins in the Luo River basin during 2010–2017, with forecast lead times up to 7 days. The proposed meteo-hydro approach based on ECMWF weather forecasts and the Conjunctive Surface-Subsurface Process version 2 land surface model with a spatial resolution of 1 km captured the flood hydrographs quite well. Compared with the ensemble streamflow prediction (ESP) approach based on initial conditions, the meteo-hydro approach increased the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency of streamflow forecasts at the three outlet stations by 0.27–0.82, decreased the root-mean-squared-error by 22–49%, and performed better in reliability and discrimination. The meteo-hydro-AI approach showed marginal improvement, which suggested further evaluations with larger samples of extreme flood events should be carried out. This study demonstrated the potential of the integrated meteo-hydro-AI approach for ensemble forecasting of extreme flood events. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
19 pages, 6650 KiB  
Article
Stability Analysis in a Direct-Current Shipboard Power System with Parallel Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generators and Supercapacitor Integration
by Qinsheng Yun, Xiangjun Wang, Shenghan Wang, Wei Zhuang and Wanlu Zhu
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(4), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12040578 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper investigates the small-signal stability of a DC shipboard power system (SPS) with the integration of a supercapacitor. As an efficient energy storage solution, supercapacitors can not only provide rapid energy response to sudden power demand spikes, effectively mitigating load fluctuations, but [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the small-signal stability of a DC shipboard power system (SPS) with the integration of a supercapacitor. As an efficient energy storage solution, supercapacitors can not only provide rapid energy response to sudden power demand spikes, effectively mitigating load fluctuations, but also enhance the system’s resilience to disturbances. In the context of the parallel operation of two Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generators (PMSGs), the inclusion of supercapacitors may alter the system’s dynamic behaviors, thereby affecting its small-signal stability. This paper develops the small-signal model of SPS and explores the small-signal model under various power distribution strategies in the parallel operation of diesel generator sets. Through the calculation of eigenvalues and influence factors, the system’s oscillation modes are analyzed, and key parameters affecting the stability of the DC distribution system are identified. Furthermore, this paper meticulously examines the specific impacts of electrical and control parameter variations on the system’s small-signal stability. Simulation experiments validate the accuracy of the small-signal stability analysis after supercapacitor integration into SPS. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
12 pages, 971 KiB  
Article
Comparison of SD Bioline Malaria Ag Pf/Pan and Acro Malaria P.f./P.v./Pan with Microscopy and Real Time PCR for the Diagnosis of Human Plasmodium Species
by Marylin Madamet, Isabelle Fonta, Joel Mosnier, Nicolas Benoit, Rémy Amalvict, Sébastien Briolant, French National Reference Centre for Imported Malaria Study Group and Bruno Pradines
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070721 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The early diagnosis of malaria is crucial to controlling morbidity and mortality. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends diagnosing malaria either using light microscopy or a malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT). Most RDTs use antibodies to detect two P. falciparum histidine-rich proteins named [...] Read more.
The early diagnosis of malaria is crucial to controlling morbidity and mortality. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends diagnosing malaria either using light microscopy or a malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT). Most RDTs use antibodies to detect two P. falciparum histidine-rich proteins named PfHRP2 and PfHRP3. However, false-negative results are known to occur due to the poor performance of RDTs depending on the species and the deletion of the Pfhrp2 and Pfhrp3 genes. This study evaluated new malaria RDTs for the detection of the human Plasmodium species. The Acro Malaria P.f./P.v./Pan Rapid Test Cassette allows the qualitative detection of parasite antigens, such as PfHRP2 specific to Plasmodium falciparum, PvLDH specific to Plasmodium vivax, and/or panLDH Plasmodium genus lactate dehydrogenase, in the blood of infected individuals. This RDT was assessed against 229 samples collected from imported malaria cases, mainly from Africa. The samples were previously diagnosed using light microscopy and RDT (SD Malaria Ag P.f./Pan, SD Bioline Alere Abbott), then confirmed using real time PCR. The two RDTs were evaluated using a comparison with real time PCR as the reference method, and their performances were compared with each other. Compared to SD RDT, the Acro RDT showed a better sensitivity to P. falciparum (96.8% vs. 89.8%), P. vivax (78.6% vs. 64.3%), P. ovale (73.7% vs. 5.3%), and P. malariae (20.0% vs. 0%). The respective specificities of the Acro RDT and SD RDT are 90.7% vs. 95.3% to P. falciparum, 100% to P. vivax, and 100% vs. 100% to Plasmodium genus. Therefore, Acro RDT showed better performance in the identification of P. ovale and low parasitaemia of P. falciparum. In addition, Acro RDT has the advantage of detecting PvLDH-specific antigens. The Acro Malaria RDT presents the benefits of detecting a P. falciparum antigen (PfHRP2) and a P. vivax antigen (PvLDH) with high sensitivity (96.8% and 73.7%, respectively) and specificity (90.7% and 100%, respectively). Acro Malaria P.f./P.v./Pan rapid diagnostic tests could be effectively used in endemic areas, especially when microscopic examination cannot be performed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Laboratory Diagnosis in Microbial Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">
13 pages, 2676 KiB  
Article
Rapid Determination of Taraxacum kok-saghyz Rubber Content Using a Pyrolyzer Hyphenated with a Miniaturized Mass Spectrometer
by Shunkai Gao, Minmin Guo, Jiaqi Gao, Zejian Huang, Min Gan, Jichuan Zhang and Yiyang Dong
Separations 2024, 11(4), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11040103 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS), a rubber-producing plant with excellent potential, emerges as a viable substitute for rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). While natural rubber is a desirable material, conventional techniques for assessing rubber content have faced challenges in meeting practical production requirements. To [...] Read more.
Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS), a rubber-producing plant with excellent potential, emerges as a viable substitute for rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). While natural rubber is a desirable material, conventional techniques for assessing rubber content have faced challenges in meeting practical production requirements. To address this issue, we have developed a pyrolysis–mass spectrometry (PY-MS) instrument for the quantitative evaluation of natural rubber (NR) content in rubber-producing plants. The derived standard curve equation, established for the detection of TKS dry weight through external standard calibration, demonstrates a correlation coefficient (R2) surpassing 0.99. The method exhibits commendable recovery rates (93.27–107.83%), relative standard deviations (RSD ≤ 3.93%), and a swift analysis time of merely 10 min per sample, thereby enabling accurate and efficient quantification of NR dry weight. Additionally, the PY-MS system we designed can be modified for vehicular use, enabling on-site, in situ analysis, and it provides substantial support for TKS breeding and propagation efforts. This approach possesses significant potential for extensive utilization in the assessment of rubber content in rubber-producing plants other than TKS. The integration of pyrolysis–mass spectrometry for the identification of polymers with high molecular weight offers a valuable pathway for the examination of diverse polymers. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
17 pages, 2998 KiB  
Article
Elucidating the Etiology and Temporal Progress of Rust on Physic Nut Genotypes and Their Relationship with Environmental Conditions in Ecuador
by Anthony Omar Donoso-Alvarado, Carmen Cruz Flores-Anchundia, Alma Mendoza, Ernesto A. Moya-Elizondo, Diego Portalanza, Freddy Zambrano-Gavilanes and Felipe R. Garcés-Fiallos
Agronomy 2024, 14(4), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040712 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.) has emerged as a promising fruit crop in Ecuador, but the recent identification of rust poses a potential threat to its productive development. This study focused on elucidating the morphological aspects of the basidiomycete and assessing rust [...] Read more.
Physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.) has emerged as a promising fruit crop in Ecuador, but the recent identification of rust poses a potential threat to its productive development. This study focused on elucidating the morphological aspects of the basidiomycete and assessing rust intensity across different canopy levels of physic nut hybrids and genotypes under field and semi-controlled conditions in Manabí, Ecuador. For the first time, this study confirms that Phakopsora arthuriana should be responsible for rust on physic nut in Ecuador based on the characteristics of the fungal structures. Rust incidence was 100% across all canopy layers, with the lower and middle canopies exhibiting higher severity and lesion numbers than the upper canopy. Using the Weibull nonlinear distribution model, we epidemiologically modeled disease progression, revealing that hybrid JAT 001100 displayed the highest temporal progress, recording 15% severity and an area under the disease progression curve of 3228.9 units. Promising genotypes CP-041 and CP-052 demonstrated lower rust intensity. Environmental parameters, including dew point, temperature, precipitation, and relative humidity, were correlated with rust severity and lesion numbers. In greenhouse assays, hybrid JAT 001165 showed higher severity, whereas JAT 001103 and JAT 001164 had more lesions than other genotypes. In contrast, promising genotypes CP-041 and CP-052 consistently exhibited lower rust intensity in both field and greenhouse environments. This study demonstrated that P. arthuriana could be epidemiologically modeled with the Weibull model, providing crucial insights into the dynamic interplay between rust infection and physic nut hybrids and genotypes under diverse conditions in the Manabí region of Ecuador. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pest and Disease Management)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
16 pages, 12981 KiB  
Article
Identification of Four Mouse FcRn Splice Variants and FcRn-Specific Vesicles
by George Haddad and Judith Blaine
Cells 2024, 13(7), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13070594 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Research into the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) has increased dramatically ever since Simister and Mostov first purified a rat version of the receptor. Over the years, FcRn has been shown to function not only as a receptor that transfers immunity from mother to [...] Read more.
Research into the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) has increased dramatically ever since Simister and Mostov first purified a rat version of the receptor. Over the years, FcRn has been shown to function not only as a receptor that transfers immunity from mother to fetus but also performs an array of different functions that include transport and recycling of immunoglobulins and albumin in the adult. Due to its important cellular roles, several clinical trials have been designed to either inhibit/enhance FcRn function or develop of non-invasive therapeutic delivery system such as fusion of drugs to IgG Fc or albumin to enhance delivery inside the cells. Here, we report the accidental identification of several FcRn alternatively spliced variants in both mouse and human cells. The four new mouse splice variants are capable of binding immunoglobulins’ Fc and Fab portions. In addition, we have identified FcRn-specific vesicles in which immunoglobulins and albumin can be stored and that are involved in the endosomal–lysosomal system. The complexity of FcRn functions offers significant potential to design and develop novel and targeted therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cellular Immunology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
17 pages, 873 KiB  
Review
Low-Volume Metastases in Apparent Early-Stage Endometrial Cancer: Prevalence, Clinical Significance, and Future Perspectives
by Diletta Fumagalli, Luigi A. De Vitis, Giuseppe Caruso, Tommaso Occhiali, Emilia Palmieri, Benedetto E. Guillot, Giulia Pappalettera, Carrie L. Langstraat, Gretchen E. Glaser, Evelyn A. Reynolds, Robert Fruscio, Fabio Landoni, Andrea Mariani and Tommaso Grassi
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1338; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071338 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most diagnosed gynecologic malignancy, and its incidence and mortality are increasing. The prognosis is highly dependent on the disease spread. Surgical staging includes retroperitoneal evaluation to detect potential lymph node metastases. In recent years, systematic lymphadenectomy has been [...] Read more.
Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most diagnosed gynecologic malignancy, and its incidence and mortality are increasing. The prognosis is highly dependent on the disease spread. Surgical staging includes retroperitoneal evaluation to detect potential lymph node metastases. In recent years, systematic lymphadenectomy has been replaced by sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy and ultrastaging, allowing for the detection of macrometastases, micrometastases, and isolated tumor cells (ITCs). Micrometastases and ITCs have been grouped as low-volume metastases (LVM). The reported prevalence of LVM in studies enrolling more than one thousand patients with apparent early-stage EC ranges from 1.9% to 10.2%. Different rates of LVM are observed when patients are stratified according to disease characteristics and their risk of recurrence. Patients with EC at low risk for recurrence have low rates of LVM, while intermediate- and high-risk patients have a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with nodal metastases, including LVM. Macro- and micrometastases increase the risk of recurrence and cause upstaging, while the clinical significance of ITCs is still uncertain. A recent meta-analysis found that patients with LVM have a higher relative risk of recurrence [1.34 (95% CI: 1.07–1.67)], regardless of adjuvant treatment. In a retrospective study on patients with low-risk EC and no adjuvant treatment, those with ITCs had worse recurrence-free survival compared to node-negative patients (85.1%; CI 95% 73.8–98.2 versus 90.2%; CI 95% 84.9–95.8). However, a difference was no longer observed after the exclusion of cases with lymphovascular space invasion. There is no consensus on adjuvant treatment in ITC patients at otherwise low risk, and their recurrence rate is low. Multi-institutional, prospective studies are warranted to evaluate the clinical significance of ITCs in low-risk patients. Further stratification of patients, considering histopathological and molecular features of the disease, may clarify the role of LVM and especially ITCs in specific contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lymph Node Dissection for Gynecologic Cancers)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">
21 pages, 7005 KiB  
Article
An Estimation of the Energy Savings of a Mainline Diesel Locomotive Equipped with an Energy Storage Device
by Ievgen Riabov, Sergey Goolak and Larysa Neduzha
Vehicles 2024, 6(2), 611-631; https://doi.org/10.3390/vehicles6020028 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The method of improving a two-section mainline diesel locomotive by using energy storage in the traction system is considered. A mathematical model was developed to study the movement of a diesel locomotive based on the recommendations and provisions of the theory of locomotive [...] Read more.
The method of improving a two-section mainline diesel locomotive by using energy storage in the traction system is considered. A mathematical model was developed to study the movement of a diesel locomotive based on the recommendations and provisions of the theory of locomotive traction. For this purpose, the movement of a diesel locomotive as part of a train along a given section of a track was studied. It was determined that the use of an energy storage device on a diesel locomotive will allow up to 64% of the energy spent on train traction to accumulate. The use of energy storage in the accumulator during electrodynamic braking ensured a reduction in fuel consumption by about 50%, regardless of the options for equipping the traction system of the diesel locomotive with an energy accumulator. It is established that regardless of the options for equipping the traction system of the diesel locomotive with an energy storage device, the indicators characterizing the degree of use of the diesel engine do not change. These research results can be used in works devoted to the improvement of the control system of energy exchange between the accumulator and traction engines of diesel locomotives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Railway Vehicles and Infrastructure)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
18 pages, 17926 KiB  
Article
Oxidation Behavior of Pre-Strained Polycrystalline Ni3Al-Based Superalloy
by Rui Guo, Jian Ding, Yujiang Wang, Haomin Feng, Linjun Chen, Jie Yang, Xingchuan Xia, Yingli Zhao, Jun Li, Shuang Ji and Junyi Luo
Materials 2024, 17(7), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071561 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The harsh service environment of aeroengine hot-end components requires superalloys possessing excellent antioxidant properties. This study investigated the effect of pre-strain on the oxidation behavior of polycrystalline Ni3Al-based superalloys. The growth behaviors of oxidation products were analyzed by scanning electron microscope, [...] Read more.
The harsh service environment of aeroengine hot-end components requires superalloys possessing excellent antioxidant properties. This study investigated the effect of pre-strain on the oxidation behavior of polycrystalline Ni3Al-based superalloys. The growth behaviors of oxidation products were analyzed by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The results indicated that the 5% pre-strained alloys exhibited lower mass gain, shallower oxidation depth and more compact oxide film structures compared to the original alloy. This is mainly attributed to the formation of rapid diffusion paths for Al atoms diffusing to the surface under 5% pre-strain, which promotes the faster formation of protective Al2O3 film while continuing to increase the pre-strain to 25% results in less protective transient oxidation behavior being aggravated due to the increase in dislocation density within the alloy, which prevents the timely formation of the protective Al2O3 film, resulting in uneven oxidation behavior on the alloy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
9 pages, 843 KiB  
Article
Dosing Regimen for Cefotaxime Should Be Adapted to the Stage of Renal Dysfunction in Critically Ill Adult Patients—A Retrospective Study
by Théo Dillies, Sophie Perinel-Ragey, Patricia Correia, Jér?me Morel, Guillaume Thiery and Manon Launay
Antibiotics 2024, 13(4), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13040313 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Cefotaxime administration is recommended in doses of 3–12 g/day in adults with a Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) > 5 mL/min. This study aimed to assess the impact of renal function and obesity on cefotaxime concentrations in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. A retrospective [...] Read more.
Cefotaxime administration is recommended in doses of 3–12 g/day in adults with a Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) > 5 mL/min. This study aimed to assess the impact of renal function and obesity on cefotaxime concentrations in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. A retrospective cohort study was conducted on consecutive ICU patients receiving continuous cefotaxime infusion between 2020 and 2022 [IRBN992021/CHUSTE]. Doses were not constant; consequently, a concentration-to-dose ratio (C/D) was considered. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the relationship between cefotaxime concentrations, renal function, and obesity. A total of 70 patients, median age 61 years, were included, with no significant difference in cefotaxime concentrations between obese and non-obese patients. However, concentrations varied significantly by GFR, with underdosing prevalent in patients with normal to increased renal function and overdosing in those with severely impaired renal function. Adjustment of cefotaxime dosing according to GFR was associated with improved target attainment. Cefotaxime dosing in critically ill patients should consider renal function, with higher initial doses required in patients with normal to increased GFR and lower doses in those with severely impaired renal function. Therapeutic drug monitoring may aid in optimising dosing regimens. Prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings and inform clinical practice. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
5 pages, 1933 KiB  
Interesting Images
Elbow Reconstruction with Megaprosthesis: An Effective Strategy for Salvage Surgery in Trauma Patients
by Serban Dragosloveanu, Mihnea-Alexandru Petre, Mihai Emanuel Gherghe, Radu Octavian Baz, Romica Cergan and Cristian Scheau
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070724 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Delayed fracture healing can have devastating functional consequences, including pseudoarthrosis. Many factors can contribute to delayed healing, including decreased vascularity, micro-motion at the fracture site, large fracture gaps, multiple traumas at the same site, compromised metabolic status, surgical complications, and other conditions. A [...] Read more.
Delayed fracture healing can have devastating functional consequences, including pseudoarthrosis. Many factors can contribute to delayed healing, including decreased vascularity, micro-motion at the fracture site, large fracture gaps, multiple traumas at the same site, compromised metabolic status, surgical complications, and other conditions. A 61-year-old female patient was referred to our hospital with left distal humeral pseudarthrosis, accompanied by chronic pain and disability. Two years prior, the patient suffered a traumatic incident. At another medical facility, the patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation surgery with simultaneous ulnar nerve transposition. She showed favorable postoperative recovery. Unfortunately, approximately one year later, the patient sustained a second trauma to the same arm. This led to peri-implant fracture and post-traumatic aseptic degradation of the osteosynthesis system which was subsequently removed. Twelve months after the last surgery, the patient was referred to our hospital and, after thorough consideration of the therapeutic options, we decided to perform left elbow arthroplasty with left distal humeral reconstruction by using Zimmer’s Comprehensive Segmental Revision System. This approach is generally reserved for tumors, and only a handful of cases of megaprostheses for non-tumoral indications have been previously reported. The surgery and perioperative care of our patient were optimal, there were no complications, and the patient recovered arm functionality following rehabilitation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
22 pages, 645 KiB  
Review
Blood Pressure Variability in Acute Stroke: A Narrative Review
by Christina Zompola, Lina Palaiodimou, Konstantinos Voumvourakis, Leonidas Stefanis, Aristeidis H. Katsanos, Else C. Sandset, Estathios Boviatsis and Georgios Tsivgoulis
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1981; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071981 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The management of blood pressure variability (BPV) in acute stroke presents a complex challenge with profound implications for patient outcomes. This narrative review examines the role of BPV across various stages of acute stroke care, highlighting its impact on treatment strategies and prognostic [...] Read more.
The management of blood pressure variability (BPV) in acute stroke presents a complex challenge with profound implications for patient outcomes. This narrative review examines the role of BPV across various stages of acute stroke care, highlighting its impact on treatment strategies and prognostic considerations. In the prehospital setting, while guidelines lack specific recommendations for BP management, emerging evidence suggests a potential link between BPV and outcomes. Among ischaemic stroke patients who are ineligible for reperfusion therapies, BPV independently influences functional outcomes, emphasising the need for individualised approaches to BP control. During intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular therapy, the intricate interplay between BP levels, recanalisation status, and BPV is evident. Striking a balance between aggressive BP lowering and avoiding hypoperfusion-related complications is essential. Intracerebral haemorrhage management is further complicated by BPV, which emerges as a predictor of mortality and disability, necessitating nuanced BP management strategies. Finally, among patients with acute subarachnoid haemorrhage, increased BPV may be correlated with a rebleeding risk and worse outcomes, emphasizing the need for BPV monitoring in this population. Integration of BPV assessment into clinical practice and research protocols is crucial for refining treatment strategies that are tailored to individual patient needs. Future studies should explore novel interventions targeting BPV modulation to optimise stroke care outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Neurology)
14 pages, 3873 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Hybrid Ship Machinery System with Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and Battery Pack
by Jure Penga, Tino Vidovi?, Gojmir Radica and ?eljko Penga
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2878; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072878 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
As marine traffic is contributing to pollution, and most vessels have predictable routes with repetitive load profiles, to reduce their impact on environment, hybrid systems with proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC-s) and battery pack are a promising replacement. For this purpose, the [...] Read more.
As marine traffic is contributing to pollution, and most vessels have predictable routes with repetitive load profiles, to reduce their impact on environment, hybrid systems with proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC-s) and battery pack are a promising replacement. For this purpose, the new approach takes into consideration an alternative to diesel propulsion with the additional benefit of carbon neutrality and increase of system efficiency. Additionally, in the developed numerical model, control of the PEMFC–battery hybrid energy system with balance of plant is incorporated with repowering existing vessels that have two diesel engines with 300 kWe. The goal of this paper is to develop a numerical model that analyzes and determines an equivalent hybrid ship propulsion system for a known traveling route. The developed numerical model consists of an interconnected system with the PEMFC stack and a battery pack as power sources. The numerical model was developed and optimized to meet the minimal required power demand for a successful route, which has variable loads and sees ships sail daily six times along the same route—in total 54 nautical miles. The results showed that the equivalent hybrid power system consists of a 300 kWe PEMFC stack and battery pack with 424 kWh battery and state of charge varying between 20 and 87%. To power this new hybrid power system, a hydrogen tank of 7200 L holding 284.7 kg at pressure of 700 bar is required, compared to previous system that consumed 1524 kg of diesel and generated 4886 kg of CO2. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
20 pages, 4793 KiB  
Article
A Comprehensive Study on the Optimization of Drilling Performance in Hybrid Nano-Composites and Neat CFRP Composites Using Statistical and Machine Learning Approaches
by Tanzila Nargis, S. M. Shahabaz, Subash Acharya, Nagaraja Shetty, Rashmi Laxmikant Malghan and S. Divakara Shetty
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2024, 8(2), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp8020067 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites have gradually replaced metals due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio compared to metallic materials. However, the drilling process often reveals various defects, such as surface roughness, influenced by different drilling parameters. This study explores the drilling quality of [...] Read more.
Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites have gradually replaced metals due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio compared to metallic materials. However, the drilling process often reveals various defects, such as surface roughness, influenced by different drilling parameters. This study explores the drilling quality of uni-directional CFRP composites, as well as hybrid Al2O3 alumina and hybrid SiC silicon carbide nano-composites, through experimental exploration using step, core, and twist drills. Response surface methodology (RSM) and statistical tools, including main effect plots, ANOVA, contour plots, and optimization techniques, were used to analyze the surface roughness of the hole. Optimization plots were drawn for optimal conditions, suggesting a spindle speed of 1500 rpm, feed of 0.01 mm/rev, and a 4 mm drill diameter for achieving minimum surface roughness. Furthermore, two machine learning models, artificial neural network (ANN) and random forest (RF), were used for predictive analysis. The findings revealed the robust predictive capabilities of both models, with RF demonstrating superior performance over ANN and RSM. Through visual comparisons and error analyses, more insights were gained into model accuracy and potential avenues for improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Composites Manufacturing and Plastics Processing)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
11 pages, 1698 KiB  
Article
Intraoral Soft Tissue Lesions in 6-Year-Old Schoolchildren in Regions of Southern Ecuador. An Epidemiological Study
by Eleonor Vélez-León, Alberto Albaladejo, Emilia Guerrero, Ginger Galván and María Melo
Children 2024, 11(4), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11040406 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Oral Mucosal Lesions (OMLs) are conditions of the oral mucosa that cause alterations in their presentation and pain in the affected patient, highlighting their importance for study. The aim of this research is to determine the prevalence of oral lesions in the Ecuadorian [...] Read more.
Oral Mucosal Lesions (OMLs) are conditions of the oral mucosa that cause alterations in their presentation and pain in the affected patient, highlighting their importance for study. The aim of this research is to determine the prevalence of oral lesions in the Ecuadorian Austro. Descriptive statistics were used to associate variables, yielding statistically significant findings based on oral lesions, sex, and geographical environment. This study was conducted under the appropriate bioethical permissions. The results obtained correspond to the prevalence of lesions by province. Morona Santiago displays a rate of 17% for abscesses, surpassing the provinces of Azuay (13.50%) and Cañar (10.67%). However, gingivitis for pathology, Azuay stands out with 13.17%, while Cañar and Morona Santiago present 10.50% and 8.33%, respectively. There is also a predominant occurrence of abscesses in rural areas (41.17%) compared to urban ones (26.33%). Regarding sex, girls show a higher percentage of abscesses (41.17%) compared to boys who have a clear tendency to present GUM lesions (22.33%). The data indicates that in the studied provinces, geographical environment and sex are key variables to understand the distribution of oral lesions. These findings encourage us to continue pursuing this type of research, which contributes to improving the quality of life for children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Dentistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
15 pages, 2935 KiB  
Article
A Sustainable Approach to Asthma Diagnosis: Classification with Data Augmentation, Feature Selection, and Boosting Algorithm
by Zne-Jung Lee, Ming-Ren Yang and Bor-Jiunn Hwang
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 723; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070723 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Asthma is a diverse disease that affects over 300 million individuals globally. The prevalence of asthma has increased by 50% every decade since the 1960s, making it a serious global health issue. In addition to its associated high mortality, asthma generates large economic [...] Read more.
Asthma is a diverse disease that affects over 300 million individuals globally. The prevalence of asthma has increased by 50% every decade since the 1960s, making it a serious global health issue. In addition to its associated high mortality, asthma generates large economic losses due to the degradation of patients’ quality of life and the impairment of their physical fitness. Asthma research has evolved in recent years to fully analyze why certain diseases develop based on a variety of data and observations of patients’ performance. The advent of new techniques offers good opportunities and application prospects for the development of asthma diagnosis methods. Over the last few decades, techniques like data mining and machine learning have been utilized to diagnose asthma. Nevertheless, these traditional methods are unable to address all of the difficulties associated with improving a small dataset to increase its quantity, quality, and feature space complexity at the same time. In this study, we propose a sustainable approach to asthma diagnosis using advanced machine learning techniques. To be more specific, we use feature selection to find the most important features, data augmentation to improve the dataset’s resilience, and the extreme gradient boosting algorithm for classification. Data augmentation in the proposed method involves generating synthetic samples to increase the size of the training dataset, which is then utilized to enhance the training data initially. This could lessen the phenomenon of imbalanced data related to asthma. Then, to improve diagnosis accuracy and prioritize significant features, the extreme gradient boosting technique is used. The outcomes indicate that the proposed approach performs better in terms of diagnostic accuracy than current techniques. Furthermore, five essential features are extracted to help physicians diagnose asthma. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
14 pages, 346 KiB  
Review
Interval from Oestrus to Ovulation in Dairy Cows—A Key Factor for Insemination Time: A Review
by Fabio De Rensis, Eleonora Dall’Olio, Giovanni Maria Gnemmi, Padet Tummaruk, Melania Andrani and Roberta Saleri
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(4), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11040152 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This review describes the oestrus-to-ovulation interval, the possibility of predicting the time of ovulation, and the optimum time for insemination relative to oestrus in dairy cows. The duration of oestrus in dairy cows is approximately 8–20 h, with differences possibly related to the [...] Read more.
This review describes the oestrus-to-ovulation interval, the possibility of predicting the time of ovulation, and the optimum time for insemination relative to oestrus in dairy cows. The duration of oestrus in dairy cows is approximately 8–20 h, with differences possibly related to the methods of oestrus detection and the frequency of observations. Most cows ovulate approximately 24–33 h after the onset of oestrus and 15–22 h after the end of oestrus. The interval from the preovulatory luteinising hormone (LH) surge to ovulation is approximately 4–30 h. Ovulation occurs when follicle diameter averages 18–20 mm. When it is possible to correctly determine the beginning of oestrus, artificial insemination can be performed utilizing the “a.m.–p.m. rule”, and only one insemination may be applied. In cows with too long or too short oestrus-to-ovulation intervals, fertility can be compromised. One important factor that can alter the oestrus-to-ovulation interval is acute or chronic heat stress during the warm season. When there is a risk that insemination may occur too early or too late with respect to the time of ovulation, GnRH administration can be considered. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Reproduction and Fertility in Dairy Cows)
12 pages, 643 KiB  
Article
Longterm Outcome of Therapeutic Vaccination with a Third Generation Pre-S/S HBV Vaccine (PreHevbrioR) of Chronically HBV Infected Patients
by Hedwig Roggendorf, Daniel Shouval, Michael Roggendorf and Guido Gerken
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(4), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14040364 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Several antiviral treatment regimens for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) virus infection have been shown to be effective in suppressing viral load and reducing the risk of hepatocellular injury and its complications. It has been hypothesized that high levels of circulating HBV surface antigen(s) [...] Read more.
Several antiviral treatment regimens for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) virus infection have been shown to be effective in suppressing viral load and reducing the risk of hepatocellular injury and its complications. It has been hypothesized that high levels of circulating HBV surface antigen(s) may lead to immune tolerance against HBV and contribute to chronic carriership. Conversely, low-level HBsAg may create a window for the reconstitution of an HBV-specific immune response through vaccination and control of infection. Previous studies in non-responders to yeast-derived HBV vaccines, using a third-generation pre-S/S vaccine, have led to up to 95% anti-HBs seroconversion. This report evaluates the long-term outcome after experimental vaccination with a pre-S/S HBV vaccine intended as a therapeutic intervention in chronic HBV carriers. Four low-level HBsAg carriers (<500 IU/mL) were vaccinated three to seven times with 20 μg PreHevbrioR. Three out of four carriers eliminated HBsAg completely and seroconverted to anti-HBs. One patient seroconverted to anti-HBs but remained with a borderline HBsAg titer (10 IU/mL). Serum anti-HBs levels following repeated vaccination varied between 27 and >1000 IU/L, respectively. Long-term observation (>6 years) showed that after discontinuing NUC treatment for at least two years, HBsAg and HBV DNA remained negative with anti-HBs positive titers ranging between 80 and >1000 IU/L. Based on our preliminary observations, there is a rationale to further evaluate the role of this vaccine as a therapeutic agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Challenges and Therapeutic Options for Liver Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">
17 pages, 3361 KiB  
Article
Modeling Stability of Alfalfa Yield and Main Quality Traits
by Vasileios Greveniotis, Elisavet Bouloumpasi, Adriana Skendi, Athanasios Korkovelos, Dimitrios Kantas, Stylianos Zotis and Constantinos G. Ipsilandis
Agriculture 2024, 14(4), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14040542 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is used to support livestock. A stability study was carried out over three years. The stability indices for yield and main quality characteristics such as plant height, number of nodes, the yield of green mass and dry matter, [...] Read more.
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is used to support livestock. A stability study was carried out over three years. The stability indices for yield and main quality characteristics such as plant height, number of nodes, the yield of green mass and dry matter, crude protein and fiber (%), and ash (%), were examined. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences that indicated the presence of high genotype–year interactions. Heritability was higher in the case of qualitative traits than quantitative traits. The most intriguing correlation was between green mass yield and crude protein content because positive correlations may lead to indirect and simultaneous selection. According to the statistical biplot models AMMI and GGE, the best genotypes for almost all traits to use, regardless of the environment and cultivation type, were the G8 (Population 2) followed by cultivar G3 (Yliki). Despite the high index values shown by the parameter number of nodes, the latter and yield showed low heritability. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
12 pages, 6658 KiB  
Article
A Novel Asymmetric Trench SiC Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor with a Poly-Si/SiC Heterojunction Diode for Optimizing Reverse Conduction Performance
by Yiren Yu, Zijun Cheng, Yi Hu, Ruiyi Lv and Shengdong Hu
Micromachines 2024, 15(4), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15040461 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this paper, a novel asymmetric trench SiC MOSFET with a Poly-Si/SiC heterojunction diode (HJD-ATMOS) is designed to improve its reverse conduction characteristics and switching performance. This structure features an integrated heterojunction diode, which improves body diode characteristics without affecting device static characteristics. [...] Read more.
In this paper, a novel asymmetric trench SiC MOSFET with a Poly-Si/SiC heterojunction diode (HJD-ATMOS) is designed to improve its reverse conduction characteristics and switching performance. This structure features an integrated heterojunction diode, which improves body diode characteristics without affecting device static characteristics. The heterojunction diode acts as a freewheeling diode during reverse conduction, reducing the cut-in voltage (Vcut-in) to a lower level than conventional asymmetric trench SiC MOSFET (C-ATMOS), while maintaining a similar breakdown voltage. Meanwhile, the split gate structure reduces gate-to-drain charge (Qgd). Through TCAD simulation, the HJD-ATMOS decreases Vcut-in by 53.04% compared to the C-ATMOS. Both Qgd and switching loss are reduced, with a decrease of 31.91% in Qgd and 40.29% in switching loss. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Semiconductor Devices and Applications, 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
27 pages, 8160 KiB  
Article
Liquid Hot Water (LHW) and Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC) of Coffee Berry Waste: Kinetics, Catalysis, and Optimization for the Synthesis of Platform Chemicals
by Alejandra Sophia Lozano-Pérez and Carlos Alberto Guerrero-Fajardo
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2854; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072854 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Colombia is the world’s leading producer of mildly washed arabica coffee and produces 12.6 million bags of green coffee, but at the same time, 784,000 tons of waste biomass are dumped in open fields, of which only 5% is recovered or used. The [...] Read more.
Colombia is the world’s leading producer of mildly washed arabica coffee and produces 12.6 million bags of green coffee, but at the same time, 784,000 tons of waste biomass are dumped in open fields, of which only 5% is recovered or used. The objective of this project was to evaluate the production of platform chemicals from these coffee wastes for sustainable resource management. To achieve this, biomass characterization was carried out using proximate analysis, ultimate analysis, and structural analysis. Hydrothermal valorization was carried out at a temperature range of 120–180 °C (LHW) and 180–260 °C (HTC) for one hour. The platform chemicals obtained were quantified by HPLC-RI and monitored by pH and conductivity, and the solid fraction was characterized by monitoring the functional groups in IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Hydrolysis processes were obtained at 150 °C, production of platform chemicals at 180 °C, and maximum concentration at 180 °C-4 h; over 200 °C, degradation of the products in the liquid fraction starts to take place. Homogeneous basic and acid catalysts were used to improve the yields of the reaction. The kinetics of the hydrolysis of lignocellulosic structures to sugars were also analyzed and described, and reaction orders of 1 (LHW), 3 (HTC), and their respective reaction rate equations were reported. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass Transformation: Sustainable Development)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">

Open Access Journals

Browse by Indexing Browse by Subject Selected Journals
Back to TopTop
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news