Advancing Open Science
for more than 25 years
Supporting academic communities
since 1996
 
19 pages, 2684 KiB  
Article
AC-Winding-Resistance Calculation of Toroidal Inductors with Solid-Round-Wire and Litz-Wire Winding Based on Complex Permeability Modeling
by Dae-Yong Um, Seung-Ahn Chae and Gwan-Soo Park
Machines 2024, 12(4), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12040228 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper has investigated a method for calculating the frequency-dependent winding resistance of toroidal inductor windings with Litz-wire as well as solid-round wire. The modified Dowell’s model is employed to address the effectiveness for inductor windings with the low and high filling factors. [...] Read more.
This paper has investigated a method for calculating the frequency-dependent winding resistance of toroidal inductor windings with Litz-wire as well as solid-round wire. The modified Dowell’s model is employed to address the effectiveness for inductor windings with the low and high filling factors. To overcome the limitation of this model, especially for a winding densely wound around the core, an alternative approach based on the complex permeability and iterative calculations is proposed. For the calculated AC-resistance factor of five inductors with different numbers of turns, layers with the same wire diameters are compared with that of FEA, and the three air-core toroidal windings are manufactured and tested within the frequency where the self-resonance can be neglected. The proposed model demonstrates the versality of the AC-resistance calculation of both solid- and Litz-wire windings within an error of 15% across a wide range of frequencies up to 1 MHz, compared with FEA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrical Machines and Drives)
16 pages, 1597 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Glucose Biosensing with Graphene Oxide and Ferrocene-Modified Linear Poly(ethylenimine)
by Jirawan Monkrathok, Pattanaphong Janphuang, Somphong Suphachiaraphan, Sastiya Kampaengsri, Anyanee Kamkaew, Kantapat Chansaenpak, Sireerat Lisnund, Vincent Blay and Piyanut Pinyou
Biosensors 2024, 14(4), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14040161 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
We designed and optimized a glucose biosensor system based on a screen-printed electrode modified with the NAD-GDH enzyme. To enhance the electroactive surface area and improve the electron transfer efficiency, we introduced graphene oxide (GO) and ferrocene-modified linear poly(ethylenimine) (LPEI-Fc) onto the biosensor [...] Read more.
We designed and optimized a glucose biosensor system based on a screen-printed electrode modified with the NAD-GDH enzyme. To enhance the electroactive surface area and improve the electron transfer efficiency, we introduced graphene oxide (GO) and ferrocene-modified linear poly(ethylenimine) (LPEI-Fc) onto the biosensor surface. This strategic modification exploits the electrostatic interaction between graphene oxide, which possesses a negative charge, and LPEI-Fc, which is positively charged. This interaction results in increased catalytic current during glucose oxidation and helps improve the overall glucose detection sensitivity by amperometry. We integrated the developed glucose sensor into a flow injection (FI) system. This integration facilitates a swift and reproducible detection of glucose, and it also mitigates the risk of contamination during the analyses. The incorporation of an FI system improves the efficiency of the biosensor, ensuring precise and reliable results in a short time. The proposed sensor was operated at a constant applied potential of 0.35 V. After optimizing the system, a linear calibration curve was obtained for the concentration range of 1.0–40 mM (R2 = 0.986). The FI system was successfully applied to determine the glucose content of a commercial sports drink. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosensing for Point-of-Care Diagnostics)
16 pages, 1727 KiB  
Article
Embedded Particle Size Measurement Method of Metal Mineral Polished Section Using Gaussian Mixture Model Based on Expectation Maximization Algorithm
by Hao Peng, Chaoxi Luo, Lifang He and Haopo Tang
Minerals 2024, 14(4), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14040358 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The study of process mineralogy plays a very important role in the field of mineral processing and metallurgy, in which the measurement of mineral-embedded particle size is one of the main research areas. The manual measurement method using a microscope has many problems, [...] Read more.
The study of process mineralogy plays a very important role in the field of mineral processing and metallurgy, in which the measurement of mineral-embedded particle size is one of the main research areas. The manual measurement method using a microscope has many problems, such as heavy workload and low measurement accuracy. In order to solve this problem, this paper proposes a Gaussian mixture model based on an expectation maximization (EM) algorithm to measure the embedded particle sizes of minerals of polished metal sections. Experiments are here performed on the polished section images of ilmenite and pyrite, and we compared the results with a microscope. The experimental results show that the proposed method has higher precision and accuracy in measuring the embedded particle sizes of metal minerals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy)
14 pages, 279 KiB  
Article
Thomas Aquinas and Some Neo-Thomists on the Possibility of Miracles and the Laws of Nature
by Ignacio Silva
Religions 2024, 15(4), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15040422 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper discusses how Thomas Aquinas and some Neo-Thomists scholars (Juan José Urráburu, Joseph Hontheim, Édouard Hugon, and Joseph Gredt) analysed the metaphysical possibility of miracles. My main goal is to unpack the metaphysical toolbox that Aquinas uses to solve the basic question [...] Read more.
This paper discusses how Thomas Aquinas and some Neo-Thomists scholars (Juan José Urráburu, Joseph Hontheim, Édouard Hugon, and Joseph Gredt) analysed the metaphysical possibility of miracles. My main goal is to unpack the metaphysical toolbox that Aquinas uses to solve the basic question about the possibility of miracles and to compare how his late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century followers solved the issue themselves. The key feature to differentiate the two approaches will reside in their use of different notions to account for the possibility of miracles, namely obediential potency for Aquinas and the laws of nature for the Neo-Thomists. To show why neo-Thomist scholars source to this notion, I also briefly discuss how the notion of the laws of nature emerged in the seventeenth century. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquinas and the Sciences: Exploring the Past, Present, and Future)
15 pages, 2498 KiB  
Article
First Results on the Presence of Mycotoxins in the Liver of Pregnant Fallow Deer (Dama dama) Hinds and Fetuses
by István Lakatos, Bianka Babarczi, Zsófia Molnár, Arnold Tóth, Gabriella Skoda, Gy?z? F. Horváth, Adrienn Horváth, Dániel Tóth, Farkas Sük?sd, László Szemethy and Zsuzsanna Sz?ke
Animals 2024, 14(7), 1039; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071039 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Reproductive abnormalities have been observed in fallow deer populations in Hungary. We supposed mycotoxin contamination to be one of the possible causes because multi-mycotoxin contamination is known to be dangerous even at low toxin levels, especially for young animals. We investigated the spatial [...] Read more.
Reproductive abnormalities have been observed in fallow deer populations in Hungary. We supposed mycotoxin contamination to be one of the possible causes because multi-mycotoxin contamination is known to be dangerous even at low toxin levels, especially for young animals. We investigated the spatial pattern of mycotoxin occurrences and the relationship between maternal and fetal mycotoxin levels. A total of 72 fallow deer embryos and their mothers were sampled in seven forested regions in Hungary in the 2020/2021 hunting season. We analyzed Aflatoxin (AF), Zearalenone (ZEA), Fumonizin B1 (FB1), DON, and T2-toxin concentrations in maternal and fetal livers by ELISA. AF was present in 70% and 82%, ZEA in 41% and 96%, DON in 90% and 98%, T2-toxin in 96% and 85%, and FB1 in 84% and 3% of hind and fetus livers, respectively. All mycotoxins passed into the fetus, but only Fumonizin B1 rarely passed. The individual variability of mycotoxin levels was extremely high, but the spatial differences were moderate. We could not prove a relation between the maternal and fetal mycotoxin concentrations, but we found an accumulation of ZEA and DON in the fetuses. These results reflect the possible threats of mycotoxins to the population dynamics and reproduction of wild fallow deer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wildlife)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
26 pages, 711 KiB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review on Shiga Toxin Subtypes and Their Niche-Related Distribution Characteristics in Shiga-Toxin-Producing E. coli and Other Bacterial Hosts
by Xuan Wang, Daniel Yu, Linda Chui, Tiantian Zhou, Yu Feng, Yuhao Cao and Shuai Zhi
Microorganisms 2024, 12(4), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12040687 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Shiga toxin (Stx), the main virulence factor of Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), was first discovered in Shigella dysenteriae strains. While several other bacterial species have since been reported to produce Stx, STEC poses the most significant risk to human health due to its [...] Read more.
Shiga toxin (Stx), the main virulence factor of Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), was first discovered in Shigella dysenteriae strains. While several other bacterial species have since been reported to produce Stx, STEC poses the most significant risk to human health due to its widespread prevalence across various animal hosts that have close contact with human populations. Based on its biochemical and molecular characteristics, Shiga toxin can be grouped into two types, Stx1 and Stx2, among which a variety of variants and subtypes have been identified in various bacteria and host species. Interestingly, the different Stx subtypes appear to vary in their host distribution characteristics and in the severity of diseases that they are associated with. As such, this review provides a comprehensive overview on the bacterial species that have been recorded to possess stx genes to date, with a specific focus on the various Stx subtype variants discovered in STEC, their prevalence in certain host species, and their disease-related characteristics. This review provides a better understanding of the Stx subtypes and highlights the need for rapid and accurate approaches to toxin subtyping for the proper evaluation of the health risks associated with Shiga-toxin-related bacterial food contamination and human infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shiga-Toxin Producing Escherichia coli and the Animal Host)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">
12 pages, 734 KiB  
Review
Enteric Nervous System Alterations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Perspectives and Implications
by Shubhankar Suman
Gastrointest. Disord. 2024, 6(2), 368-379; https://doi.org/10.3390/gidisord6020025 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The enteric nervous system (ENS), consisting of neurons and glial cells, is situated along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract’s wall and plays a crucial role in coordinating digestive processes. Recent research suggests that the optimal functioning of the GI system relies on intricate connections [...] Read more.
The enteric nervous system (ENS), consisting of neurons and glial cells, is situated along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract’s wall and plays a crucial role in coordinating digestive processes. Recent research suggests that the optimal functioning of the GI system relies on intricate connections between the ENS, the intestinal epithelium, the immune system, the intestinal microbiome, and the central nervous system (CNS). Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses a group of chronic inflammatory disorders, such as Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), characterized by recurring inflammation and damage to the GI tract. This review explores emerging research in the dynamic field of IBD and sheds light on the potential role of ENS alterations in both the etiology and management of IBD. Specifically, we delve into IBD-induced enteric glial cell (EGC) activation and its implications for persistent enteric gliosis, elucidating how this activation disrupts GI function through alterations in the gut–brain axis (GBA). Additionally, we examine IBD-associated ENS alterations, focusing on EGC senescence and the acquisition of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). We highlight the pivotal role of these changes in persistent GI inflammation and the recurrence of IBD. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic interventions involving senotherapeutic agents, providing insights into potential avenues for managing IBD by targeting ENS-related mechanisms. This approach might represent a potential alternative to managing IBD and advance treatment of this multifaceted disease. Full article
22 pages, 3463 KiB  
Review
Rise of Wisdom Pedagogy Research in Higher Education (1980–2022): A Systematic Literature Review
by Maria Jakubik
Trends High. Educ. 2024, 3(2), 199-220; https://doi.org/10.3390/higheredu3020012 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper explores: How has wisdom pedagogy research emerged in higher education during 1980–2022? This study is the first to explore the emergence of wisdom pedagogy research in higher education applying Bipartite network analysis for detecting clusters of 24 wisdom pedagogy articles of [...] Read more.
This paper explores: How has wisdom pedagogy research emerged in higher education during 1980–2022? This study is the first to explore the emergence of wisdom pedagogy research in higher education applying Bipartite network analysis for detecting clusters of 24 wisdom pedagogy articles of 53 authors and 161 keywords. Results are visualized with WoS analytics, word-clouds, and with Bipartite network. Wisdom research in higher education is two decades late compared with other disciplines. In higher education n= 524 wisdom, n = 33 wisdom pedagogy publications were detected in the Web of Science Core Collection database. This paper analyzed n = 24 wisdom pedagogy articles published during the 1980–2022 period. There were only two articles found dealing directly with wisdom pedagogy. Therefore, this study has several further research implications for educational researchers. Firstly, they need to conduct a more comprehensive search for wisdom pedagogy models by extending the scope of this study to other databases, books, book chapters, and to conference papers. Secondly, they need to synthesize and theorize their findings by building a wisdom pedagogy model. Thirdly, researchers need to develop detailed guidelines for educational practitioners on how to apply wisdom pedagogy in practice. This study is only at the beginning of this journey. However, it would be important for educating students with wisdom pedagogy in higher education because it would facilitate students’ thinking, judgements, and actions based on their moral and ethical values in a highly interconnected and complex world. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
11 pages, 3094 KiB  
Review
Ophthalmic Manifestations in Patients with Blood Malignancies
by Costanza Rossi, Alessandro Buizza, Giuseppe Alessio, Massimiliano Borselli, Andrea Taloni, Adriano Carnevali, Giovanna Carnovale Scalzo, Andrea Lucisano, Vincenzo Scorcia and Giuseppe Giannaccare
Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(2), 193-203; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16020020 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Ocular complications can occur in up to 90% of patients with blood malignancies. Such complications range from direct infiltration to local hemostatic imbalance and treatment-related toxicity. This narrative review is based on a systematic computerized search of the literature conducted until January 2024 [...] Read more.
Ocular complications can occur in up to 90% of patients with blood malignancies. Such complications range from direct infiltration to local hemostatic imbalance and treatment-related toxicity. This narrative review is based on a systematic computerized search of the literature conducted until January 2024 and examines the common ocular complications associated with blood cancers. Ocular complications from primary disease include mass effects from ocular adnexal lymphomas and intraocular lymphomas, with B-cell lymphomas accounting for 95% of primary ocular presentations. Secondary disease involvement from systemic hematological malignancies can lead to a wide range of ocular manifestations, such as leukemic retinopathy. Furthermore, toxicity from antineoplastic therapies and ocular graft versus host disease (oGVHD) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation present additional risks to ocular health. In conclusion, ocular complications in blood cancer patients are an integral part of patient management, requiring regular ophthalmic evaluations and close collaboration between oncologists and ophthalmologists. Advances in therapy and an increased focus on early symptom recognition are essential for preserving vision and enhancing patient quality of life. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">
15 pages, 2185 KiB  
Article
Augmenting the Antitumor Efficacy of Natural Killer Cells via SynNotch Receptor Engineering for Targeted IL-12 Secretion
by Ali Ahmadnia, Saeed Mohammadi, Ahad Yamchi, Mohamad Reza Kalani, Touraj Farazmandfar, Ayyoub Khosravi and Ali Memarian
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(4), 2931-2945; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46040183 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial components of innate immunity, known for their potent tumor surveillance abilities. Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have shown promise in cancer targeting, but optimizing CAR designs for NK cell functionality remains challenging. CAR-NK cells have gained attention for [...] Read more.
Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial components of innate immunity, known for their potent tumor surveillance abilities. Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have shown promise in cancer targeting, but optimizing CAR designs for NK cell functionality remains challenging. CAR-NK cells have gained attention for their potential to reduce side effects and enable scalable production in cancer immunotherapy. This study aimed to enhance NK cell anti-tumor activity by incorporating PD1-synthetic Notch (synNotch) receptors. A chimeric receptor was designed using UniProt database sequences, and 3D structure models were generated for optimization. Lentiviral transduction was used to introduce PD1-Syn receptors into NK cells. The expression of PD1-Syn receptors on NK cell surfaces was assessed. Engineered NK cells were co-cultured with PDL1+ breast cancer cells to evaluate their cytotoxic activity and ability to produce interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interferon-gamma (IFNγ) upon interaction with the target cells. This study successfully expressed the PD1-Syn receptors on NK cells. CAR-NK cells secreted IL-12 and exhibited target-dependent IFNγ production when engaging PDL1+ cells. Their cytotoxic activity was significantly enhanced in a target-dependent manner. This study demonstrates the potential of synNotch receptor-engineered NK cells in enhancing anti-tumor responses, especially in breast cancer cases with high PDL1 expression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Tumor Microenvironment for Cancer Therapy, 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
11 pages, 664 KiB  
Article
Can Secondary Adhesive Capsulitis Complicate Calcific Tendinitis of the Rotator Cuff? An Ultrasound Imaging Analysis
by Giovanni Tuè, Oriana Masuzzo, Francesco Tucci, Marco Cavallo, Anna Parmeggiani, Fabio Vita, Alberto Patti, Danilo Donati, Alessandro Marinelli, Marco Miceli and Paolo Spinnato
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(2), 579-589; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14020045 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Adhesive capsulitis (AC) of the glenohumeral joint is a recognized cause of pain associated with both active and passive restricted ranges of movement. AC can be subdivided into primary and secondary forms. Trauma, surgery, immobilization, and diabetes mellitus are the leading well-recognized [...] Read more.
Background: Adhesive capsulitis (AC) of the glenohumeral joint is a recognized cause of pain associated with both active and passive restricted ranges of movement. AC can be subdivided into primary and secondary forms. Trauma, surgery, immobilization, and diabetes mellitus are the leading well-recognized causes of secondary AC. Calcific tendinitis/tendinitis (CT) of the rotator cuff is considered a possible trigger for AC, as reported in a few previous articles. However, there are no original investigations that assess the frequency and characteristics of this association. The aim of our research was to evaluate the presence of AC in a cohort of patients with a known CT condition of the rotator cuff by an ultrasound (US) examination. Materials and methods: We prospectively enrolled all the patients admitted at our single institution (October 2022–June 2023) for the preoperative US evaluation of a known CT condition. In these patients, we searched for parameters related to secondary AC. An axillary pouch (AP) thickness equal to or greater than 4 mm (or greater than 60% of the contralateral AP) was considered diagnostic of AC. Moreover, rotator interval (RI) thickness and the presence of effusion within the long-head biceps tendon (LHBT) sheath was also assessed in all patients. Results: A total of 78 patients (54F, 24M—mean age = 50.0 and range = 31–71 y.o.) were enrolled in the study. In 26 of those patients (26/78—33.3%), US signs of AC were detected. Notably, the mean AP thickness in patients with AC and CT was 3.96 ± 1.37 mm (Group 1) and 2.08 ± 0.40 mm in patients with CT only (Group 2). RI thickness was significantly greater in patients with superimposed AC: 2.54 ± 0.38 mm in Group 1 and 1.81 ± 0.41 mm in Group 2 (p < 0.00001). Moreover, effusion within the LHBT was significantly more frequently detected in patients with AC: 84.61% in Group 1 versus 15.79% in Group 2—p < 0.00001. Conclusion: US signs of AC are found in one-third of patients with CT of the rotator cuff, demonstrating that AC represents a frequent complication that should be routinely evaluated during US investigation to provide more personalized treatment strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shoulder Disorders: Diagnosis and Treatment)
9 pages, 1142 KiB  
Article
Epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Taiwan
by Yu-Wei Lai and Ching-Hu Chung
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(2), 570-578; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14020044 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major contributor to the world’s cancer burden. Understanding the HCC incidence rate in Taiwan is thus an interesting avenue of research. Methods: From an NHI database, those patients who had been newly diagnosed with HCC and who [...] Read more.
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major contributor to the world’s cancer burden. Understanding the HCC incidence rate in Taiwan is thus an interesting avenue of research. Methods: From an NHI database, those patients who had been newly diagnosed with HCC and who had been listed on a registry in a catastrophic illness dataset during the years 2013–2021 were enrolled in this study. Antineoplastic agent usage and comorbidities were also studied. Results: The incidence rate of HCC decreased from 57.77 to 44.95 in 100,000 from 2013 to 2021. The average age of patients with HCC increased from 65.54 years old with a CCI score of 4.98 in 2013 to 67.92 years old with a CCI score of 5.49 in 2021. Among these HCC patients, the patients under antineoplastic agent treatment decreased from 53.47% to 31.41% from 2013 to 2021. The presence of comorbidities in HCC patients was about 55.77–83.01% with mild liver disease and 29.93–37.30% with diabetes (without complications) in the period 2013–2021. Conclusions: The incidence rate of HCC slightly decreased in Taiwan. Due to antineoplastic agent usage decreasing over time, these results may indicate that more early-stage HCC patients detected in recent years were mainly treated with surgeries. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
14 pages, 968 KiB  
Review
Decoding Post-Viral Fatigue: The Basal Ganglia’s Complex Role in Long-COVID
by Thorsten Rudroff
Neurol. Int. 2024, 16(2), 380-393; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint16020028 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Long-COVID afflicts millions with relentless fatigue, disrupting daily life. The objective of this narrative review is to synthesize current evidence on the role of the basal ganglia in long-COVID fatigue, discuss potential mechanisms, and highlight promising therapeutic interventions. A comprehensive literature search was [...] Read more.
Long-COVID afflicts millions with relentless fatigue, disrupting daily life. The objective of this narrative review is to synthesize current evidence on the role of the basal ganglia in long-COVID fatigue, discuss potential mechanisms, and highlight promising therapeutic interventions. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Mounting evidence from PET, MRI, and functional connectivity data reveals basal ganglia disturbances in long-COVID exhaustion, including inflammation, metabolic disruption, volume changes, and network alterations focused on striatal dopamine circuitry regulating motivation. Theories suggest inflammation-induced signaling disturbances could impede effort/reward valuation, disrupt cortical–subcortical motivational pathways, or diminish excitatory input to arousal centers, attenuating drive initiation. Recent therapeutic pilots targeting basal ganglia abnormalities show provisional efficacy. However, heterogeneous outcomes, inconsistent metrics, and perceived versus objective fatigue discrepancies temper insights. Despite the growing research, gaps remain in understanding the precise pathways linking basal ganglia dysfunction to fatigue and validating treatment efficacy. Further research is needed to advance understanding of the basal ganglia’s contribution to long-COVID neurological sequelae and offer hope for improving function across the expanding affected population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19, Neuroinflammation and Therapeutics, 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">
24 pages, 25802 KiB  
Article
Towards Transdisciplinary Heritage Assessment: An Analysis of the Use of Landscape Study Methods as a Holistic Toolbox for Cultural Site Characterisation in the Spanish Context
by Celia López-Bravo
Architecture 2024, 4(2), 197-220; https://doi.org/10.3390/architecture4020013 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This research work arises from the need to design specific techniques for the characterisation of cultural sites. Assuming the increasing complexity of the protection typologies, the expansion of working scales gives thanks to technology and the pursuit of social sustainability objectives. Thus, its [...] Read more.
This research work arises from the need to design specific techniques for the characterisation of cultural sites. Assuming the increasing complexity of the protection typologies, the expansion of working scales gives thanks to technology and the pursuit of social sustainability objectives. Thus, its main objective is to search for innovative tools that other disciplines can contribute to the work of architects specialising in heritage studies. To this end, the research explores the main methodologies, maps, guides, and registers of landscape and historic landscape characterisation developed in Europe, particularly in Spain, over the last 40 years. Considering this intense and profound evolution of landscape analysis, useful strategies for the assessment of cultural sites from their conception in the 21st century arise. Nevertheless, landscape characterisation methods have been mainly developed and applied by geographers and are absent in many urban and territorial heritage studies. In response, this article proposes a new methodological approach focusing on contextual values to be used in the assessment of architectural heritage at the territorial scale. 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 ">
12 pages, 277 KiB  
Article
Dirac Field, van der Waals Gas, Weyssenhoff Fluid, and Newton Particle
by Luca Fabbri
Foundations 2024, 4(2), 134-145; https://doi.org/10.3390/foundations4020010 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This article considers the Dirac field in polar formulation and shows that when torsion is taken in effective approximation the theory has the thermodynamic properties of a van der Waals gas. It is then shown that in the limit of zero chiral angle [...] Read more.
This article considers the Dirac field in polar formulation and shows that when torsion is taken in effective approximation the theory has the thermodynamic properties of a van der Waals gas. It is then shown that in the limit of zero chiral angle the van der Waals gas reduces to a Weyssenhoff fluid, and in spinlessness regime the Weyssenhoff fluid further reduces to a Newton particle. This nesting of approximations allows us to interpret the various spinor quantities. We will see that torsion will provide a form of negative pressure, while the chiral angle will be related to a type of temperature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sciences)
12 pages, 2818 KiB  
Article
Deficiency in DNA Damage Repair Proteins Promotes Prostate Cancer Cell Migration through Oxidative Stress
by Philippa Lantwin, Adam Kaczorowski, Cathleen Nientiedt, Constantin Schwab, Martina Kirchner, Viktoria Schütz, Magdalena G?rtz, Markus Hohenfellner, Anette Duensing, Albrecht Stenzinger and Stefan Duensing
Onco 2024, 4(2), 56-67; https://doi.org/10.3390/onco4020005 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Introduction: DNA damage repair gene deficiency defines a subgroup of prostate cancer patients with early metastatic progression and unfavorable disease outcome. Whether deficiency in DNA damage repair genes directly promotes metastatic dissemination is not completely understood. Methods: The migratory behavior of prostate cancer [...] Read more.
Introduction: DNA damage repair gene deficiency defines a subgroup of prostate cancer patients with early metastatic progression and unfavorable disease outcome. Whether deficiency in DNA damage repair genes directly promotes metastatic dissemination is not completely understood. Methods: The migratory behavior of prostate cancer cells was analyzed after siRNA-mediated knockdown of DNA damage repair and checkpoint proteins, including BRCA2, ATM, and others, using transwell migration assays, scratch assays and staining for F-actin to ascertain cell circularity. Cells deficient in BRCA2 or ATM were tested for oxidative stress by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS). The effects of ROS inhibition on cell migration were analyzed using the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC). The correlation between BRCA2 deficiency and oxidative stress was ascertained via immunohistochemistry for methylglyoxal (MG)-modified proteins in 15 genetically defined primary prostate cancers. Results: Prostate cancer cells showed a significantly increased migratory activity after the knockdown of BRCA2 or ATM. There was a significant increase in ROS production in LNCaP cells after BRCA2 knockdown and in PC-3 cells after BRCA2 or ATM knockdown. Remarkably, the ROS scavenger NAC abolished the enhanced motility of prostate cancer cells after the knockdown of BRCA2 or ATM. Primary prostate cancers harboring genetic alterations in BRCA2 showed a significant increase in MG-modified proteins, indicating enhanced oxidative stress in vivo. Conclusions: Our results indicate that DNA damage repair gene deficiency may contribute to the metastatic dissemination of prostate cancer through enhanced tumor cell migration involving oxidative stress. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
29 pages, 2707 KiB  
Article
BCL2 Protein Progressively Declines during Robust CLL Clonal Expansion: Potential Impact on Venetoclax Clinical Efficacy and Insights on Mechanism
by Hyunjoo Lee, Shabirul Haque, Rashmi Gupta, Jonathan E. Kolitz, Steven L. Allen, Kanti Rai, Nicholas Chiorazzi and Patricia K. A. Mongini
Lymphatics 2024, 2(2), 50-78; https://doi.org/10.3390/lymphatics2020005 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
CLL B cells express elevated pro-survival BCL2, and its selective inhibitor, venetoclax, significantly reduces leukemic cell load, leading to clinical remission. Nonetheless, relapses occur. This study evaluates the hypothesis that progressively diminished BCL2 protein in cycling CLL cells within patient lymph node niches [...] Read more.
CLL B cells express elevated pro-survival BCL2, and its selective inhibitor, venetoclax, significantly reduces leukemic cell load, leading to clinical remission. Nonetheless, relapses occur. This study evaluates the hypothesis that progressively diminished BCL2 protein in cycling CLL cells within patient lymph node niches contributes to relapse. Using CFSE-labeled, purified CLL populations known to respond with vigorous cycling in d6 cultures stimulated with TLR9-activating ODN (oligodeoxynucleotide) + IL15, we show that BCL2 protein progressively declines during consecutive cell divisions. In contrast, MCL1 and survivin are maintained/slightly elevated during cycling. Delayed pulsing of quiescent and activated CLL cultures with selective inhibitors of BCL2 or survivin revealed selective targeting of noncycling and cycling populations, respectively, raising implications for therapy. To address the hypothesis that BCL2-repressive miRs (miR15a/miR16-1), encoded in Chr13, are mechanistically involved, we compared BCL2 protein levels within ODN + IL15-stimulated CLL cells, with/without del(13q), yielding results suggesting these miRs contribute to BCL2 reduction. In support, within ODN-primed CLL cells, an IL15-driven STAT5/PI-3K pathway (required for vigorous cycling) triggers elevated p53 TF protein known to directly activate the miR15a/miR16-1 locus. Furthermore, IL15 signaling elicits the repression of BCL2 mRNA within 24 h. Additional comparisons of del(13q)+ and del(13q)−/− cohorts for elevated p53 TF expression during cycling suggest that a documented miR15a/miR16-1-mediated negative feedback loop for p53 synthesis is active during cycling. Findings that robust CLL cycling associates with progressively decreasing BCL2 protein that directly correlates with decreasing venetoclax susceptibility, combined with past findings that these cycling cells have the greatest potential for activation-induced cytosine deaminase (AICDA)-driven mutations, suggest that venetoclax treatment should be accompanied by modalities that selectively target the cycling compartment without eliciting further mutations. The employment of survivin inhibitors might be such an approach. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
18 pages, 627 KiB  
Article
The Moderating Effect of Body Appreciation on the Relationship between Self-Esteem and Life Satisfaction
by René Wodarz and Aleksandra M. Rogowska
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(4), 870-887; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14040056 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Although positive associations between life satisfaction, self-esteem, and body image have previously been established, differences in these variables by gender and age have yielded mixed results. Moreover, little is known about the interplay between self-esteem and body appreciation on life satisfaction. This [...] Read more.
Background: Although positive associations between life satisfaction, self-esteem, and body image have previously been established, differences in these variables by gender and age have yielded mixed results. Moreover, little is known about the interplay between self-esteem and body appreciation on life satisfaction. This study aims to investigate the moderating effect of body appreciation on the relationship between self-esteem and life satisfaction, considering disparities between females and males and also between emerging adults (before the age of thirty) and older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was performed in Poland with a sample of 449 adults aged between 18 and 75 (M = 30.41, SD = 12.72), including 68% of women. The survey included the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and Body Appreciation Scale (BAS-2). Results: Men scored higher than women in terms of life satisfaction and self-esteem, while older participants (age > 30) scored higher than younger individuals (age ≤ 30) in terms of life satisfaction, self-esteem, and body appreciation. The study confirmed positive and moderate correlations between life satisfaction, self-esteem, and body appreciation. The interactive effect of self-esteem and body appreciation on life satisfaction was also found by controlling for age and gender. Conclusions: Some intervention programs focused on increasing levels of self-esteem and body appreciation should be implemented, especially among women and emerging adults, to improve their well-being. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Body Image Perception and Body Composition in All Population)
14 pages, 1018 KiB  
Article
Nocturnal Smartphone Use Affects Sleep Quality and Cognitive and Physical Performance in Tunisian School-Age Children
by Rihab Abid, Achraf Ammar, Rami Maaloul, Mariem Boudaya, Nizar Souissi and Omar Hammouda
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(4), 856-869; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14040055 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Nocturnal smartphone use emits blue light, which can adversely affect sleep, leading to a variety of negative effects, particularly in children. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effect of acute (AC) (one night) and repeated (RC) (five nights) nocturnal smartphone exposure [...] Read more.
Nocturnal smartphone use emits blue light, which can adversely affect sleep, leading to a variety of negative effects, particularly in children. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effect of acute (AC) (one night) and repeated (RC) (five nights) nocturnal smartphone exposure on sleep, cortisol, and next-day performance in Tunisian children. Thirteen participants (seven girls and six boys, age 9 ± 0.6, height 1.32 ± 0.06, weight 34.47 ± 4.41) attended six experimental nights. The experiment started with a baseline night (BL) with no smartphone exposure, followed by repeated sessions of nocturnal smartphone exposure lasting 90 minutes (08:00 pm–09:30 pm). Actigraphy; salivary cortisol; the Stroop test (selective attention); choice reaction time (CRT); N-back (working memory); counter-movement jump (CMJ), composed of flight time (time spent in the CMJ flight phase) and jump height; and a 30 m sprint were assessed the morning after each condition. Both AC and RC shortened total sleep time (TST) (p < 0.01), with a greater decrease with RC (−46.7 min, ∆% = −9.46) than AC (−28.8 min, ∆% = −5.8) compared to BL. AC and RC significantly increased waking after sleep onset (3.5 min, ∆% = 15.05, to 9.9 min, ∆% = 43.11%) and number of errors made on the Stroop test (1.8 error, ∆% = 74.23, to 3.07 error, ∆% = 97.56%). Children made 0.15 and 0.8 more errors (∆% = 6.2 to 57.61%) and spent 46.9 s and 71.6 s more time on CRT tasks (∆% = 7.22 to 11.11%) with AC and RC, respectively, compared to BL. The high-interference index of the Stroop task, CMJ performance, and 30 m sprint speed were only altered (p < 0.01) following RC (0.36, Δ% = 41.52%; −34 s, Δ% = −9.29%, for flight time and −1.23 m, −8.72%, for jump height; 0.49 s, Δ% = 6.48, respectively) when compared to BL. In conclusion, one- or five-night exposure to smartphones disturbed the children’s sleep quality and their performance, with more pronounced effects following RC. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">
11 pages, 1108 KiB  
Article
Emergency First Responders’ Misconceptions about Suicide: A Descriptive Study
by Elena Victoria Ayala Romera, Rosa María Sánchez Santos, Giulio Fenzi, Juan Antonio García Méndez and Jose Luis Díaz Agea
Nurs. Rep. 2024, 14(2), 777-787; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep14020060 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: In 2022, suicide was the second leading cause of external death in Spain (the first among young people aged 15–29 years). This study aims to analyze the presence of myths among emergency first responders and identify the most prevalent false beliefs among [...] Read more.
Background: In 2022, suicide was the second leading cause of external death in Spain (the first among young people aged 15–29 years). This study aims to analyze the presence of myths among emergency first responders and identify the most prevalent false beliefs among them. Methods: The research is a observational and descriptive study carried out using a questionnaire composed of a total of 25 myths, with the response options being true or false. A total of 543 professionals took part in the study. All of them could intervene before, during, and after a suicide attempt. Results: The main finding of the study is that more than 50% of the participants accept as true the statement "There are more serious and less serious problems", underlining the idea that caring for patients could be related to the importance the health professional gives to the patients’ problem. Myths such as “The suicidal person wants to die” and “The suicidal person is determined to die” are also evident. Conclusion: The subjective thought the first responder has about suicide could affect their acts, and there is a need to train first responders in suicidal behavior to be able to create an adequate approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nursing Care and Clinical Management in the Post-Pandemic Era)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
18 pages, 1675 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Control of Quadrotors in Uncertain Environments
by Daniel Leit?o, Rita Cunha and Jo?o M. Lemos
Eng 2024, 5(2), 544-561; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng5020030 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The problem addressed in this article consists of the motion control of a quadrotor affected by model disturbances and uncertainties. In order to tackle model uncertainty, adaptive control based on reinforcement learning is used. The distinctive feature of this article, in comparison with [...] Read more.
The problem addressed in this article consists of the motion control of a quadrotor affected by model disturbances and uncertainties. In order to tackle model uncertainty, adaptive control based on reinforcement learning is used. The distinctive feature of this article, in comparison with other works on quadrotor control using reinforcement learning, is the exploration of the underlying optimal control problem in which a quadratic cost and a linear dynamics allow for an algorithm that runs in real time. Instead of identifying a plant model, adaptation is obtained by approximating the performance index given by the Q-function using directional forgetting recursive least squares that rely on a linear regressor built from quadratic functions of input/output data. The adaptive algorithm proposed is tested in simulation in a cascade control structure that drives a quadrotor. Simulations show the improvement in performance that results when the proposed algorithm is turned on. 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 ">
25 pages, 59696 KiB  
Article
Authentic Romanian Gastronomy—A Landmark of Bucharest’s City Center
by Ana-Irina Lequeux-Dinc?, Mihaela Preda and Iuliana Vijulie
Tour. Hosp. 2024, 5(2), 251-275; https://doi.org/10.3390/tourhosp5020017 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Gastronomy represents one of the main defining national cultural elements and is essential for shaping territorial identities and for tourism development, attracting both domestic and international tourists. The landscape in the center of Bucharest has gradually changed under the influence of entrepreneurial initiatives [...] Read more.
Gastronomy represents one of the main defining national cultural elements and is essential for shaping territorial identities and for tourism development, attracting both domestic and international tourists. The landscape in the center of Bucharest has gradually changed under the influence of entrepreneurial initiatives within the hospitality industry, showing at present a rather cosmopolitan urban environment. Despite the significant number of international catering units, better adapted to global tastes, Romanian-themed restaurants represent a landmark of the capital city. In this context, our study focuses on the Romanian authentic local gastronomy offered by the themed traditional restaurants in the center of Bucharest as a stimulating factor for different types of consumers. Aiming to answer several research questions, this research has a complex multi-fold methodological approach, appealing to triangulation which gathered, as main analytic methods, mapping, semantic analyses, and text visualisation, and the interview method (originally and appropriately applied for this case study to experienced employees). The main results show a complex gastronomic landscape that gathers various types of restaurants but outlines those with a Romanian ethnic theme in the center of Bucharest. The study of Romanian restaurants’ menus reveals elements of authenticity (e.g., traditional dishes and their regional denominations, local rural ingredients, old recipes, and cuisine techniques) as factors of attractiveness for consumers and as competitive advantages in their market. Moreover, interviews with staff representatives outline restaurants’ atmosphere, originality, and price–quality ratio of their food as the main attractive elements for both autochtonous customers and tourists and which offer an advantage in the market. The present study may interest multiple stakeholders, focusing on the development and evolution of the hospitality industry in Romania. 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 ">
15 pages, 2906 KiB  
Article
Alleviating Salt Stress in Tomatoes through Seed Priming with Polyethylene Glycol and Sodium Chloride Combination
by Nasratullah Habibi, Naoki Terada, Atsushi Sanada and Kaihei Koshio
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 210-224; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020012 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Tomato cultivation grapples with salt stress, disrupting growth parameters and physiological processes. High salinity levels induce osmotic stress, impacting cellular integrity and hindering metabolic activities. Salt accumulation at the root zone alters key physiological attributes, compromising overall harvestable output. Seed priming emerges as [...] Read more.
Tomato cultivation grapples with salt stress, disrupting growth parameters and physiological processes. High salinity levels induce osmotic stress, impacting cellular integrity and hindering metabolic activities. Salt accumulation at the root zone alters key physiological attributes, compromising overall harvestable output. Seed priming emerges as a potential solution to enhance plant resilience. A research gap exists in understanding the combined influence of polyethylene glycol and sodium chloride as seed priming agents under salt stress conditions. The study occurred in the Greenhouse of Laboratory Horticultural Science at Tokyo University of Agriculture. Micro Tom seeds underwent a factorial randomized design, involving five salinity and four priming treatments. Replicated ten times, totaling 200 plants, seed priming used polyethylene glycol, inducing salinity stress with sodium chloride. Meticulous measurements of growth parameters, photosynthetic traits, yield attributes, and electrolyte leakage were conducted. Statistical analyses discerned treatment effects at a 5% significance level. Seed priming, especially with ‘PEG plus NaCl’, effectively mitigated salt stress effects on tomato plants. Under severe salt stress, primed plants exhibited increased plant height, trusses, leaves, and leaf area. Photosynthetic efficiency and yield attributes demonstrated significant improvements with seed priming. Electrolyte leakage, indicative of leaf damage, was notably reduced by seed priming treatments, with ‘PEG plus NaCl’ exhibiting the highest efficacy. These results offer valuable guidance for optimizing agricultural practices in saline environments, contributing to sustainable strategies for food security amidst escalating environmental challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
Show Figures

Figure 1

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