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12 pages, 721 KiB  
Article
Lipid Profile, Eating Habit, and Physical Activity in Children with Down Syndrome: A Prospective Study
by Luca Pecoraro, Melissa Zadra, Francesco Cavallin, Silvana Lauriola, Giorgio Piacentini and Angelo Pietrobelli
Diseases 2024, 12(4), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases12040068 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Children with Down Syndrome (DS) frequently undergo health challenges, including a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. We aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary and physical advice provided by a specialized pediatrician over two years. In this prospective study, 44 children with [...] Read more.
Children with Down Syndrome (DS) frequently undergo health challenges, including a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. We aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary and physical advice provided by a specialized pediatrician over two years. In this prospective study, 44 children with DS, aged 2 to 17, underwent outpatient follow-up visits every six months between December 2020 and May 2023. Dietary habits, physical activities, anthropometric data, and laboratory results were recorded at baseline and 2-year follow-up. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and physical activity were investigated using the ‘KIDMED’ and ‘Godin–Shepard Leisure-Time’ questionnaires, respectively, completed by the parents of the children. Venous blood samples were taken to determine the lipid profile. A significant reduction in BMI z-scores (p = 0.006) and an improvement in Godin–Shepard questionnaire scores (p = 0.0004) were observed. On the other hand, the lipid profile worsened, with an increase in LDL-c (p = 0.04) and a decrease in HDL-c (p = 0.03). Children with DS may benefit from an educational program on nutrition and physical activity to optimize weight control. Different interventions should target the lipid profile. Preventive intervention and follow-up by the pediatrician are essential for DS, which should continue into adulthood. Full article
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13 pages, 4861 KiB  
Article
Cellular Immunity of Drosophila willistoni Reveals Novel Complexity in Insect Anti-Parasitoid Defense
by Gy?ngyi Cinege, Kinga Fodor, Lilla B. Magyar, Zoltán Lipinszki, Dan Hultmark and István Andó
Cells 2024, 13(7), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13070593 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Coevolution of hosts and their parasites has shaped heterogeneity of effector hemocyte types, providing immune defense reactions with variable effectiveness. In this work, we characterize hemocytes of Drosophila willistoni, a species that has evolved a cellular immune system with extensive variation and [...] Read more.
Coevolution of hosts and their parasites has shaped heterogeneity of effector hemocyte types, providing immune defense reactions with variable effectiveness. In this work, we characterize hemocytes of Drosophila willistoni, a species that has evolved a cellular immune system with extensive variation and a high degree of plasticity. Monoclonal antibodies were raised and used in indirect immunofluorescence experiments to characterize hemocyte subpopulations, follow their functional features and differentiation. Pagocytosis and parasitization assays were used to determine the functional characteristics of hemocyte types. Samples were visualized using confocal and epifluorescence microscopy. We identified a new multinucleated giant hemocyte (MGH) type, which differentiates in the course of the cellular immune response to parasitoids. These cells differentiate in the circulation through nuclear division and cell fusion, and can also be derived from the central hematopoietic organ, the lymph gland. They have a binary function as they take up bacteria by phagocytosis and are involved in the encapsulation and elimination of the parasitoid. Here, we show that, in response to large foreign particles, such as parasitoids, MGHs differentiate, have a binary function and contribute to a highly effective cellular immune response, similar to the foreign body giant cells of vertebrates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cellular Immunology)
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16 pages, 5943 KiB  
Article
Mycorrhizal Symbiosis Enhances P Uptake and Indole-3-Acetic Acid Accumulation to Improve Root Morphology in Different Citrus Genotypes
by Chunyan Liu, Xiaoniu Guo, Fengjun Dai and Qiangsheng Wu
Horticulturae 2024, 10(4), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040339 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to enhance plant growth via stimulation of root system development. However, the extent of their effects and underlying mechanisms across different citrus genotypes remain to be fully elucidated. This study investigates the impact of Funneliformis mosseae ( [...] Read more.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to enhance plant growth via stimulation of root system development. However, the extent of their effects and underlying mechanisms across different citrus genotypes remain to be fully elucidated. This study investigates the impact of Funneliformis mosseae (F. mosseae) inoculation on plant growth performance, root morphology, phosphorus (P), and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) concentrations, as well as the expression of related synthesis and transporter genes in three citrus genotypes: red tangerine (Citrus tangerine ex. Tanaka), kumquat (Fortunella margarita L. Swingle), and fragrant citrus (Citrus junos Sieb. ex. Tanaka). Following 12 weeks of inoculation, significant improvements were observed in plant height, shoot and root biomass, total root length, average root diameter, second-order lateral root development, root hair density, and root hair length across all genotypes. Additionally, F. mosseae inoculation significantly increased root P and IAA concentrations in the three citrus genotypes. Notably, phosphatase activity was enhanced in F. margarita but reduced in C. tangerine and C. junos following inoculation. Gene expression analysis revealed a universal upregulation of the P transporter gene PT5, whereas expressions of the auxin synthesis gene YUC2, transporter gene LAX2, and phosphatase gene PAP1 were commonly downregulated. Specific to genotypes, expressions of YUC5, LAX5, PIN2, PIN3, PIN6, and expansin genes EXPA2 and EXPA4 were significantly upregulated in C. tangerine but downregulated in F. margarita and C. junos. Principal component analysis and correlation assessments highlighted a strong positive association between P concentration, P and auxin synthesis, and transporter gene expressions with most root morphology traits, except for root average diameter. Conversely, IAA content and phosphatase activities were negatively correlated with these root traits. These findings suggest that F. mosseae colonization notably enhances plant growth and root system architecture in citrus genotypes via modifications in P transport and IAA accumulation, indicating a complex interplay between mycorrhizal symbiosis and host plant physiology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Citrus Plant Growth and Fruit Quality)
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31 pages, 2068 KiB  
Article
Interrelation between Sustainable Dynamic Capabilities, Corporate Sustainability, and Sustained Competitive Advantage
by Nadeem Bari, Ranga Chimhundu and Ka Ching Chan
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2864; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072864 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Achieving sustained competitive advantage in the current business landscape has become an important challenge for both the service and manufacturing sectors. Based on the thematic analysis of the empirical data from expert interviews of 46 professionals from Australia and Pakistan, this study puts [...] Read more.
Achieving sustained competitive advantage in the current business landscape has become an important challenge for both the service and manufacturing sectors. Based on the thematic analysis of the empirical data from expert interviews of 46 professionals from Australia and Pakistan, this study puts forward a framework to achieve sustained competitive advantage. The research employs a dynamic capability (DC) theory lens and creates a foundation for the “sustainable dynamic capabilities” concept for future research. The findings affirm that (1) sustainable dynamic capabilities lead to sustained competitive advantage, (2) sustainable dynamic capabilities lead to corporate sustainability, (3) corporate sustainability leads to sustainable dynamic capabilities, and (4) corporate sustainability acts as a mediator between sustainable dynamic capabilities and sustained competitive advantage. By utilising the proposed framework, practitioners can clearly define their strategies to achieve competitive advantage by implementing sustainability practices. The findings of this research clearly pinpoint the interrelationship between sustainability practices and sustained competitive advantage, and sustainability should be taken as a dynamic capability itself, opening up new avenues for future research. Full article
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20 pages, 18424 KiB  
Article
Accurate Recognition of Jujube Tree Trunks Based on Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization Image Enhancement and Improved YOLOv8
by Shunkang Ling, Nianyi Wang, Jingbin Li and Longpeng Ding
Forests 2024, 15(4), 625; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15040625 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The accurate recognition of tree trunks is a prerequisite for precision orchard yield estimation. Facing the practical problems of complex orchard environment and large data flow, the existing object detection schemes suffer from key issues such as poor data quality, low timeliness and [...] Read more.
The accurate recognition of tree trunks is a prerequisite for precision orchard yield estimation. Facing the practical problems of complex orchard environment and large data flow, the existing object detection schemes suffer from key issues such as poor data quality, low timeliness and accuracy, and weak generalization ability. In this paper, an improved YOLOv8 is designed on the basis of data flow screening and enhancement for lightweight jujube tree trunk accurate detection. Firstly, the key frame extraction algorithm was proposed and utilized to efficiently screen the effective data. Secondly, the CLAHE image data enhancement method was proposed and used to enhance the data quality. Finally, the backbone of the YOLOv8 model was replaced with a GhostNetv2 structure for lightweight transformation, also introducing the improved CA_H attention mechanism. Extensive comparison and ablation results show that the average precision of the quality-enhanced dataset over that of the original dataset increases from 81.2% to 90.1%, and the YOLOv8s-GhostNetv2-CA_H model proposed in this paper reduces the model size by 19.5% compared to that of the YOLOv8s base model, with precision increasing by 2.4% to 92.3%, recall increasing by 1.4%, [email protected] increasing by 1.8%, and FPS being 17.1% faster. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Inventory, Modeling and Remote Sensing)
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11 pages, 3299 KiB  
Article
Applying Self-Supervised Learning to Image Quality Assessment in Chest CT Imaging
by Eléonore Pouget and Véronique Dedieu
Bioengineering 2024, 11(4), 335; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11040335 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Many new reconstruction techniques have been deployed to allow low-dose CT examinations. Such reconstruction techniques exhibit nonlinear properties, which strengthen the need for a task-based measure of image quality. The Hotelling observer (HO) is the optimal linear observer and provides a lower bound [...] Read more.
Many new reconstruction techniques have been deployed to allow low-dose CT examinations. Such reconstruction techniques exhibit nonlinear properties, which strengthen the need for a task-based measure of image quality. The Hotelling observer (HO) is the optimal linear observer and provides a lower bound of the Bayesian ideal observer detection performance. However, its computational complexity impedes its widespread practical usage. To address this issue, we proposed a self-supervised learning (SSL)-based model observer to provide accurate estimates of HO performance in very low-dose chest CT images. Our approach involved a two-stage model combining a convolutional denoising auto-encoder (CDAE) for feature extraction and dimensionality reduction and a support vector machine for classification. To evaluate this approach, we conducted signal detection tasks employing chest CT images with different noise structures generated by computer-based simulations. We compared this approach with two supervised learning-based methods: a single-layer neural network (SLNN) and a convolutional neural network (CNN). The results showed that the CDAE-based model was able to achieve similar detection performance to the HO. In addition, it outperformed both SLNN and CNN when a reduced number of training images was considered. The proposed approach holds promise for optimizing low-dose CT protocols across scanner platforms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advance of Machine Learning in Biomedical Image Analysis)
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14 pages, 6412 KiB  
Article
Process-Based Modeling of Phenology and Radial Growth in Pinus tabuliformis in Response to Climate Factors over a Cold and Semi-Arid Region
by Zihong Man, Junzhou Zhang, Junjun Liu, Li Liu, Jiqin Yang and Zongying Cao
Plants 2024, 13(7), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13070980 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Climate change significantly impacts the phenology and dynamics of radial tree growth in alpine dryland forests. However, there remains a scarcity of reliable information on the physiological processes of tree growth and cambial phenology in response to long-term climate change in [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Climate change significantly impacts the phenology and dynamics of radial tree growth in alpine dryland forests. However, there remains a scarcity of reliable information on the physiological processes of tree growth and cambial phenology in response to long-term climate change in cold and semi-arid regions. (2) Methods: We employed the process-based Vaganov–Shashkin (VS) model to simulate the phenology and growth patterns of Chinese pine (Pinus tabuliformis) in the eastern Qilian Mountains, northeastern Tibetan Plateau. The model was informed by observed temperature and precipitation data to elucidate the relationships between climate factors and tree growth. (3) Results: The simulated tree-ring index closely aligned with the observed tree-ring chronology, validating the VS model’s effectiveness in capturing the climatic influences on radial growth and cambial phenology of P. tabuliformis. The model outputs revealed that the average growing season spanned from mid-April to mid-October and experienced an extension post-1978 due to ongoing warming trends. However, it is important to note that an increase in the duration of the growing season did not necessarily result in a higher level of radial growth. (4) Conclusions: While the duration of the growing season was primarily determined by temperature, the growth rate was predominantly influenced by water conditions during the growing season, making it the most significant factor contributing to ring formation. Our study provides valuable insights into the potential mechanisms underlying tree growth responses to climate change in cold and semi-arid regions. Full article
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13 pages, 268 KiB  
Review
Role of Palliative Care in the Supportive Management of AL Amyloidosis—A Review
by Muhammad Hamza Habib, Yun Kyoung Ryu Tiger, Danai Dima, Mathias Schl?gl, Alexandra McDonald, Sandra Mazzoni, Jack Khouri, Louis Williams, Faiz Anwer and Shahzad Raza
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1991; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071991 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Light chain amyloidosis is a plasma–cell disorder with a poor prognosis. It is a progressive condition, causing worsening pain, disability, and life-limiting complications involving multiple organ systems. The medical regimen can be complex, including chemotherapy or immunotherapy for the disease itself, as well [...] Read more.
Light chain amyloidosis is a plasma–cell disorder with a poor prognosis. It is a progressive condition, causing worsening pain, disability, and life-limiting complications involving multiple organ systems. The medical regimen can be complex, including chemotherapy or immunotherapy for the disease itself, as well as treatment for pain, gastrointestinal and cardiorespiratory symptoms, and various secondary symptoms. Patients and their families must have a realistic awareness of the illness and of the goals and limitations of treatments in making informed decisions about medical therapy, supportive management, and end-of-life planning. Palliative care services can thus improve patients’ quality of life and may even reduce overall treatment costs. Light chain (AL) amyloidosis is a clonal plasma cell disorder characterized by the excessive secretion of light chains by an indolent plasma cell clone that gradually accumulates in vital organs as amyloid fibrils and leads to end-organ damage. With progressive disease, most patients develop diverse clinical symptoms and complications that negatively impact quality of life and increase mortality. Complications include cardiac problems including heart failure, hypotension, pleural effusions, renal involvement including nephrotic syndrome with peripheral edema, gastrointestinal symptoms leading to anorexia and cachexia, complex pain syndromes, and mood disorders. The prognosis of patients with advanced AL amyloidosis is dismal. With such a complex presentation, and high morbidity and mortality rates, there is a critical need for the establishment of a palliative care program in clinical management. This paper provides an evidence-based overview of the integration of palliative care in the clinical management of AL amyloidosis as a means of reducing ER visits, rehospitalizations, and in-hospital mortality. We also discuss potential future collaborative directions in various aspects of clinical care related to AL amyloidosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of AL Amyloidosis)
11 pages, 2479 KiB  
Article
Antihistamine Medication Blunts Localized-Vibration-Induced Increases in Popliteal Blood Flow
by Devin Needs, Jonathan Blotter, Gilbert W. Fellingham, Glenn Cruse, Jayson R. Gifford, Aaron Wayne Johnson and Jeffrey Brent Feland
Vibration 2024, 7(2), 351-361; https://doi.org/10.3390/vibration7020017 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Localized vibration (LV) of the lower leg increases arterial blood flow (BF). However, it is unclear how LV causes this increase. Understanding the mechanisms of this response could lead to the optimized future use of LV as a therapy. One possible mechanism of [...] Read more.
Localized vibration (LV) of the lower leg increases arterial blood flow (BF). However, it is unclear how LV causes this increase. Understanding the mechanisms of this response could lead to the optimized future use of LV as a therapy. One possible mechanism of LV-mediated BF is through histamine release by mechanosensitive mast cells. The purpose of this study was to measure the BF response of 21 recreationally active young adults (11 male, 10 female, mean age 22.1 years) after 47 Hz and 10 min LV to the calf, with and without antihistamine medication (180 mg Fexofenadine). Each participant received both control (no antihistamine) and antihistamine (treatment) conditions separated by at least 24 h. BF ultrasound measurements (mean and peak blood velocity, volume flow, popliteal diameter, and heart rate) were taken before LV therapy and periodically for 19 min post LV. Using a cell means mixed model, we found that LV significantly increased the control mean blood velocity immediately post LV but did not significantly increase the antihistamine mean blood velocity immediately post LV. Therefore, we hypothesize that a primary mechanism of LV increase in BF is histamine release from mechano-sensing mast cells, and that this response is force-dependent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Vibration)
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23 pages, 11049 KiB  
Article
Effect of Anodic Oxidation Pulse Voltage on Antibacterial Properties and Biocompatibility of Ti-Ag Alloy
by Zhen Ma, Yudong Yan, Chang Shi, Kexin Di, Jianwei Xu, Qicong Liu, Liting Mu, Jianming Zheng, Jiali Hu and Erlin Zhang
Coatings 2024, 14(4), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14040405 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
For the application of titanium and titanium alloys in orthopedic implant materials, the antibacterial properties and cell biocompatibility determine whether the implant surgery is successful. In this study, a functional anodic oxidation (AO) coating was successfully prepared to modify the surface of Ti-Ag [...] Read more.
For the application of titanium and titanium alloys in orthopedic implant materials, the antibacterial properties and cell biocompatibility determine whether the implant surgery is successful. In this study, a functional anodic oxidation (AO) coating was successfully prepared to modify the surface of Ti-Ag alloy. The surface characteristics of the anodized Ti-Ag alloy were analyzed using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and contact angle measurements. The corrosion characteristics of Ti-Ag samples were tested by an electrochemical workstation. In addition, the antibacterial properties and cell activity were studied by the plate count method and MC3T3-E1 cell staining. The results indicate that the AO process can generate a multi-functional TiO2/Ag2O coating with a large number of block and flower-like structures on the surface of a Ti-Ag alloy. When the AO voltage of the sample is 120 V, the maximum roughness is 0.73 μm and the minimum wetting degree is 23°, which improves the biocompatibility. The corrosion test results show that AO treatment can improve the corrosion resistance of a Ti-Ag alloy. The oxidation voltage is 20 V and the coating has the best corrosion resistance. The corrosion open circuit potential (Eocp) is 107.621 mV and the corrosion current density (icorr) is 2.241 × 10−8 A·cm−2. This coating can promote ion release and show more than 99% of a strong antibacterial ability against S. aureus. The results of the compatibility evaluation by cultured cells showed that the multifunctional coating formed by the anodic oxidation process did not cause cytotoxicity and promoted the adhesion of MC3T3-E1 cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramic and Metallic Biomaterials. Application in Medical Sciences)
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8 pages, 241 KiB  
Article
Cosmological Mass of the Photon Related to Stueckelberg and Higgs Mechanisms
by Lorenzo Gallerani Resca
Particles 2024, 7(2), 289-296; https://doi.org/10.3390/particles7020017 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
I consider the electro-weak (EW) masses and interactions generated by photons using vacuum expectation values of Stueckelberg and Higgs fields. I provide a prescription to relate their parametric values to a cosmological range derived from the fundamental Heisenberg uncertainty principle and the Einstein–de [...] Read more.
I consider the electro-weak (EW) masses and interactions generated by photons using vacuum expectation values of Stueckelberg and Higgs fields. I provide a prescription to relate their parametric values to a cosmological range derived from the fundamental Heisenberg uncertainty principle and the Einstein–de Sitter cosmological constant and horizon. This yields qualitative connections between microscopic ranges acquired by W± or Z0 gauge Bosons and the cosmological scale and minimal mass acquired by g-photons. I apply this procedure to an established Stueckelberg–Higgs mechanism, while I consider a similar procedure for a pair of Higgs fields that may spontaneously break all U(1) × SU(2) gauge invariances. My estimates of photon masses and their additional parity-breaking interactions with leptons and neutrinos may be detectable in suitable accelerator experiments. Their effects may also be observable astronomically through massive g-photon condensates that may contribute to dark matter and dark energy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers for Particles 2023)
13 pages, 276 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Trabecular Bone Microarchitecture and Bone Mineral Density in Young Women, Including Selected Hormonal Parameters
by El?bieta Sowińska-Przepiera, Mariola Krzy?cin, Igor Syrenicz, Adrianna ?wiertnia, Adrianna Orlińska, Dorota ?wiek, Dorota Branecka-Wo?niak, Aneta Cymbaluk-P?oska, ?ana Bumbulien? and Anhelli Syrenicz
Biomedicines 2024, 12(4), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12040758 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The absence of non-invasive methods for assessing bone material and structural changes is a significant diagnostic challenge. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) bone mineral density (BMD) testing is the gold standard for osteoporosis diagnosis. BMD and the trabecular bone score (TBS) have facilitated targeted [...] Read more.
The absence of non-invasive methods for assessing bone material and structural changes is a significant diagnostic challenge. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) bone mineral density (BMD) testing is the gold standard for osteoporosis diagnosis. BMD and the trabecular bone score (TBS) have facilitated targeted osteoporosis prevention and treatment in clinical settings. The findings from this study indicate that BMD modulation in young women is influenced by various hormones, potentially compromising the diagnostic precision of BMD for subclinical bone demineralization. A total of 205 women aged 19 to 37 underwent anthropometric measurements and hormonal tests. BMD was determined using DXA, and TBS values were computed from the lumbar spine L1–L4 segment. The multivariate analysis findings suggest that BMD might not be determined by hormones. The relationship between TBS and TSH was statistically significant in the univariate analysis, which indicates the efficacy of further studies to determine the link between TBS and specific hormones. Analyzing the strength of the correlation between TBS and hormones in the univariate analysis shows which factors are worth considering in further analyses. This makes it possible to create better techniques that will help identify young women who are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. Full article
13 pages, 972 KiB  
Review
The Influence of Microglia on Neuroplasticity and Long-Term Cognitive Sequelae in Long COVID: Impacts on Brain Development and Beyond
by Luana da Silva Chagas and Claudio Alberto Serfaty
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3819; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073819 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Microglial cells, the immune cells of the central nervous system, are key elements regulating brain development and brain health. These cells are fully responsive to stressors, microenvironmental alterations and are actively involved in the construction of neural circuits in children and the ability [...] Read more.
Microglial cells, the immune cells of the central nervous system, are key elements regulating brain development and brain health. These cells are fully responsive to stressors, microenvironmental alterations and are actively involved in the construction of neural circuits in children and the ability to undergo full experience-dependent plasticity in adults. Since neuroinflammation is a known key element in the pathogenesis of COVID-19, one might expect the dysregulation of microglial function to severely impact both functional and structural plasticity, leading to the cognitive sequelae that appear in the pathogenesis of Long COVID. Therefore, understanding this complex scenario is mandatory for establishing the possible molecular mechanisms related to these symptoms. In the present review, we will discuss Long COVID and its association with reduced levels of BDNF, altered crosstalk between circulating immune cells and microglia, increased levels of inflammasomes, cytokines and chemokines, as well as the alterations in signaling pathways that impact neural synaptic remodeling and plasticity, such as fractalkines, the complement system, the expression of SIRPα and CD47 molecules and altered matrix remodeling. Together, these complex mechanisms may help us understand consequences of Long COVID for brain development and its association with altered brain plasticity, impacting learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as cognitive decline in adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Microglia Research)
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18 pages, 769 KiB  
Review
Synthetic Cathinones: Epidemiology, Toxicity, Potential for Abuse, and Current Public Health Perspective
by Shanshan Chen, Wenhua Zhou and Miaojun Lai
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(4), 334; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14040334 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones, derived from cathinone found in the plant Catha edulis, represent the second largest and most frequently seized group of new psychoactive substances. They are considered as β-keto analogs of amphetamine, sharing pharmacological effects with amphetamine and cocaine. This review describes the [...] Read more.
Synthetic cathinones, derived from cathinone found in the plant Catha edulis, represent the second largest and most frequently seized group of new psychoactive substances. They are considered as β-keto analogs of amphetamine, sharing pharmacological effects with amphetamine and cocaine. This review describes the neurotoxic properties of synthetic cathinones, encompassing their capacity to induce neuroinflammation, dysregulate neurotransmitter systems, and alter monoamine transporters and receptors. Additionally, it discusses the rewarding and abuse potential of synthetic cathinones drawing from findings obtained through various preclinical animal models, contextualized with other classical psychostimulants. The review also offers an overview of current abuse trends of synthetic cathinones on the illicit drug market, specifying the aspects covered, and underscores the risks they pose to public health. Finally, the review discusses public health initiatives and efforts to reduce the hazards of synthetic cathinones, including harm reduction methods, education, and current clinical management strategies. Full article
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18 pages, 6859 KiB  
Article
Advanced Synthesis and Characterization of CdO/CdS/ZnO Heterostructures for Solar Energy Applications
by Yana Suchikova, Sergii Kovachov, Ihor Bohdanov, Zhakyp T. Karipbayev, Yaroslav Zhydachevskyy, Anastasiia Lysak, Vladimir Pankratov and Anatoli I. Popov
Materials 2024, 17(7), 1566; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071566 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study introduces an innovative method for synthesizing Cadmium Oxide /Cadmium Sulfide/Zinc Oxide heterostructures (CdO/CdS/ZnO), emphasizing their potential application in solar energy. Utilizing a combination of electrochemical deposition and oxygen annealing, the research provides a thorough analysis of the heterostructures through scanning electron [...] Read more.
This study introduces an innovative method for synthesizing Cadmium Oxide /Cadmium Sulfide/Zinc Oxide heterostructures (CdO/CdS/ZnO), emphasizing their potential application in solar energy. Utilizing a combination of electrochemical deposition and oxygen annealing, the research provides a thorough analysis of the heterostructures through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The findings reveal a complex surface morphology and a composite structure with significant contributions from hexagonal CdS and cubic CdO phases. The study highlights the uniformity in the distribution of luminescent centers and the crystalline quality of the heterostructures, which is evident from the PL analysis. The redshift observed in the emission peak and the additional peaks in the excitation spectrum indicate intricate optical properties influenced by various factors, including quantum confinement and lattice strain. The research demonstrates these heterostructures’ potential in enhancing solar cells’ efficiency and applicability in optoelectronic devices. This comprehensive characterization and analysis pave the way for future optimization and application in efficient and sustainable solar energy solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal Oxide Semiconductors for Electronic Applications)
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15 pages, 2791 KiB  
Article
The Potential of Bioactive Fish Collagen Oligopeptides against Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced NIH/3T3 and HUVEC Damage: The Involvement of the Mitochondria
by Na Zhu, Rui Liu, Meihong Xu and Yong Li
Nutrients 2024, 16(7), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16071004 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Extensive in vivo investigations have demonstrated the antioxidant properties of fish collagen oligopeptides (FCOPs). One of the main causes of aging and chronic non-communicable diseases is oxidative stress. Therefore, FCOPs have a broad range of applications in illness prevention and delaying aging from [...] Read more.
Extensive in vivo investigations have demonstrated the antioxidant properties of fish collagen oligopeptides (FCOPs). One of the main causes of aging and chronic non-communicable diseases is oxidative stress. Therefore, FCOPs have a broad range of applications in illness prevention and delaying aging from the standpoint of the “food is medicine” theory. However, the mechanisms that underpin the antioxidant activity of FCOPs are not completely understood. The specific objective of this essay was to investigate the antioxidant effect of FCOPs and its possible mechanism at the cellular level. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts NIH/3T3 and human vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to 200 µM hydrogen peroxide containing different concentrations of FCOPs for 4 h and were supplemented with different concentrations of FCOPs for 24 h. Normal growth medium without FCOPs was applied for control cells. An array of assays was used to evaluate the implications of FCOPs on cellular oxidative stress status, cellular homeostasis, inflammatory levels, and mitochondrial function. We found that FCOPs exerted a protective effect by inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activities and cell viability, inhibiting cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase, suppressing interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1) secretion, downregulating nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activity, protecting mitochondrial membrane potential, and increasing ATP synthesis and NAD+ activities in both cells. FCOPs had a stronger antioxidant impact on NIH/3T3 than on HUVECs, simultaneously increasing glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity and decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) content in NIH/3T3. These findings indicate that FCOPs have antioxidant effects on different tissue cells damaged by oxidative stress. FCOPs were therefore found to promote cellular homeostasis, inhibit inflammation, and protect mitochondria. Meanwhile, better health outcomes will be achieved by thoroughly investigating the effective dose and intervention time of FCOPs, as the absorption efficiency of FCOPs varies in different tissue cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Bioactive Peptides: Challenges and Opportunities)
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11 pages, 221 KiB  
Article
Visiting with Elders—Aging, Caregiving, and Planning for Future Generations of American Indians and Alaska Natives
by Cole Allick and Marija Bogic
Genealogy 2024, 8(2), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8020036 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: To address the importance of engaging American Indian and Alaska Native Elders in a dialogue about healthy aging and fill the gap in the scholarly literature on this topic. (2) Methods: This study conducted a listening session with Elders who attended [...] Read more.
(1) Background: To address the importance of engaging American Indian and Alaska Native Elders in a dialogue about healthy aging and fill the gap in the scholarly literature on this topic. (2) Methods: This study conducted a listening session with Elders who attended the 2021 National Indian Council on Aging (NICOA) Annual Conference in Reno, Nevada. The listening session was audio-recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis by two analysts. (3) Results: Important insights regarding American Indian and Alaska Native Elders’ perspectives on planning for future care and aging-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. (4) Conclusions: This study is one of the first to engage American Indian and Alaska Native Elders in a conversation about health aging. Calls for intergenerational solidarity, protection of Elders, education, and relationality were found to be important themes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health and Wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples)
11 pages, 594 KiB  
Article
Disentangling Gender and Relative Age Effects in Women’s and Girls’ Rugby Union
by Adam L. Kelly, Diogo Coutinho, John M. Radnor, Kate Burke, Donald Barrell, Daniel Jackson and Paolo R. Brustio
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(2), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9020061 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Relative age effects (RAEs) within sports refer to the overrepresentation of athletes born earlier in the selection year and the underrepresentation of those born later in the selection year. Research examining RAEs in women’s and girls’ rugby union remains limited in comparison to [...] Read more.
Relative age effects (RAEs) within sports refer to the overrepresentation of athletes born earlier in the selection year and the underrepresentation of those born later in the selection year. Research examining RAEs in women’s and girls’ rugby union remains limited in comparison to the male literature, whilst the impacts of RAEs on the youth–senior transition are yet to be explored in a female sport context. As such, the purpose of this study was to examine RAEs during entry into the women’s and girls’ premiership and international rugby union pathways in England, as well as to compare them to their respective senior cohort (n = 1367): (a) U18 England Rugby Centre of Excellence Player (n = 325) vs. Senior Premiership Player (n = 868), and (b) U18 England Player (n = 49) vs. Senior England Player (n = 125). Chi-square (χ2) analyses compared birth quarter (BQ) distributions against expected distributions. The findings revealed no significant difference in BQ distributions at either youth or senior levels, as well as no significant differences in the BQ distributions of those who were likely to transition from youth to senior levels (all p > 0.05). Importantly, though, descriptive statistics showed a skewed birthdate distribution in both U18 England Rugby Centre of Excellence Player (BQ1 = 30% vs. BQ4 = 20%) and U18 England Player cohorts (BQ1 = 33% vs. BQ4 = 18%). We highlight the gender-specific mechanisms that potentially explain the variations between male and female RAEs in rugby union, including developmental differences, sport popularity, and sociocultural norms. We also warn against a ‘copy and paste’ template from the male provision to ensure the recent growth of female rugby union does not fall victim to the same RAEs in the future. Full article
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19 pages, 1949 KiB  
Article
Psychometric Modeling to Identify Examinees’ Strategy Differences during Testing
by Clifford E. Hauenstein, Susan E. Embretson and Eunbee Kim
J. Intell. 2024, 12(4), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence12040040 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Aptitude test scores are typically interpreted similarly for examinees with the same overall score. However, research has found evidence of examinee differences in strategies, as well as in the continued application of appropriate procedures during testing. Such differences can impact the correlates of [...] Read more.
Aptitude test scores are typically interpreted similarly for examinees with the same overall score. However, research has found evidence of examinee differences in strategies, as well as in the continued application of appropriate procedures during testing. Such differences can impact the correlates of test scores, making similar interpretations for equivalent scores questionable. This study presents some item response theory (IRT) models that are relevant to identifying examinee differences in strategies and understanding of test-taking procedures. First, mixture IRT models that identify latent classes of examinees with different patterns of item responses are considered; these models have long been available but unfortunately are not routinely applied. Strategy differences between the classes can then be studied separately by modeling the response patterns with cognitive complexity variables within each class. Secondly, novel psychometric approaches that leverage response time information (in particular, response time residuals) in order to identify both inter and intraindividual variability in response processes are considered. In doing so, a general method for evaluating threats to validity is proposed. The utility of the approach, in terms of providing more interpretable performance estimates and improving the administration of psychological measurement instruments, is then demonstrated with an empirical example. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Psychometric Methods: Theory and Practice)
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14 pages, 1212 KiB  
Article
Gene Dosage of F5 c.3481C>T Stop-Codon (p.R1161Ter) Switches the Clinical Phenotype from Severe Thrombosis to Recurrent Haemorrhage: Novel Hypotheses for Readthrough Strategy
by Donato Gemmati, Elisabetta D’Aversa, Bianca Antonica, Miriana Grisafi, Francesca Salvatori, Stefano Pizzicotti, Patrizia Pellegatti, Nadia Ciccone, Stefano Moratelli, Maria Luisa Serino and Veronica Tisato
Genes 2024, 15(4), 432; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15040432 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Inherited defects in the genes of blood coagulation essentially express the severity of the clinical phenotype that is directly correlated to the number of mutated alleles of the candidate leader gene (e.g., heterozygote vs. homozygote) and of possible additional coinherited traits. The F5 [...] Read more.
Inherited defects in the genes of blood coagulation essentially express the severity of the clinical phenotype that is directly correlated to the number of mutated alleles of the candidate leader gene (e.g., heterozygote vs. homozygote) and of possible additional coinherited traits. The F5 gene, which codes for coagulation factor V (FV), plays a two-faced role in the coagulation cascade, exhibiting both procoagulant and anticoagulant functions. Thus, defects in this gene can be predisposed to either bleeding or thrombosis. A Sanger sequence analysis detected a premature stop-codon in exon 13 of the F5 gene (c.3481C>T; p.R1161Ter) in several members of a family characterised by low circulating FV levels and contrasting clinical phenotypes. The propositus, a 29 y.o. male affected by recurrent haemorrhages, was homozygous for the F5 stop-codon and for the F5 c.1691G>A (p.R506Q; FV-Leiden) inherited from the heterozygous parents, which is suggestive of combined cis-segregation. The homozygous condition of the stop-codon completely abolished the F5 gene expression in the propositus (FV:Ag < 1%; FV:C < 1%; assessed by ELISA and PT-based one-stage clotting assay respectively), removing, in turn, any chance for FV-Leiden to act as a prothrombotic molecule. His father (57 y.o.), characterised by severe recurrent venous thromboses, underwent a complete molecular thrombophilic screening, revealing a heterozygous F2 G20210A defect, while his mother (56 y.o.), who was negative for further common coagulation defects, reported fully asymptomatic anamnesis. To dissect these conflicting phenotypes, we performed the ProC®Global (Siemens Helthineers) coagulation test aimed at assessing the global pro- and anticoagulant balance of each family member, investigating the responses to the activated protein C (APC) by means of an APC-sensitivity ratio (APC-sr). The propositus had an unexpectedly poor response to APC (APC-sr: 1.09; n.v. > 2.25), and his father and mother had an APC-sr of 1.5 and 2.0, respectively. Although ProC®Global prevalently detects the anticoagulant side of FV, the exceptionally low APC-sr of the propositus and his discordant severe–moderate haemorrhagic phenotype could suggest a residual expression of mutated FV p.506QQ through a natural readthrough or possible alternative splicing mechanisms. The coagulation pathway may be physiologically rebalanced through natural and induced strategies, and the described insights might be able to track the design of novel treatment approaches and rebalancing molecules. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases 2023)
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14 pages, 19042 KiB  
Article
Precision Landing of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle under Wind Disturbance Using Derivative Sliding Mode Nonlinear Disturbance Observer-Based Control Method
by Sunghun Jung
Aerospace 2024, 11(4), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11040265 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are extensively employed in civilian and military applications because of their excellent maneuverability. Achieving fully autonomous quadrotor flight and precision landing on a wireless charging station in the presence of wind disturbance has become a crucial research topic. This [...] Read more.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are extensively employed in civilian and military applications because of their excellent maneuverability. Achieving fully autonomous quadrotor flight and precision landing on a wireless charging station in the presence of wind disturbance has become a crucial research topic. This paper presents a composite control technique for UAV altitude and attitude tracking in harsh environments, i.e., wind disturbance. A composite controller was developed based on nonlinear disturbance observer (NDOB) control theory to allow the UAV to land in the presence of random external wind disturbances and ground effects. The NDOB estimated the unknown wind disturbance, and the estimation was fed into the derivative sliding mode nonlinear disturbance observer-based control (DSMNDOBC), allowing the UAV to perform autonomous precision landing. Two loop designs were applied: the inner loop for stabilization and the outer loop for altitude tracking. The quadrotor model dynamics and the proposed controller, DSMNDOBC, were simulated employing MATLAB/Simulink®, and the results were compared with the one obtained by the proportional derivative (PD) controller and the sliding mode controller (SMC). The simulation results indicated that the DSMNDOBC has superior altitude and attitude control compared to the PD and SMC controllers and better disturbance estimation and attenuation performance. Full article
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25 pages, 2894 KiB  
Review
NDRGs in Breast Cancer: A Review and In Silico Analysis
by Emilly S. Villodre, Anh P. N. Nguyen and Bisrat G. Debeb
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1342; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071342 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The N-myc downstream regulated gene family (NDRGs) includes four members: NDRG1, NDRG2, NDRG3, and NDRG4. These members exhibit 53–65% amino acid identity. The role of NDRGs in tumor growth and metastasis appears to be tumor- and context-dependent. While many [...] Read more.
The N-myc downstream regulated gene family (NDRGs) includes four members: NDRG1, NDRG2, NDRG3, and NDRG4. These members exhibit 53–65% amino acid identity. The role of NDRGs in tumor growth and metastasis appears to be tumor- and context-dependent. While many studies have reported that these family members have tumor suppressive roles, recent studies have demonstrated that NDRGs, particularly NDRG1 and NDRG2, function as oncogenes, promoting tumor growth and metastasis. Additionally, NDRGs are involved in regulating different signaling pathways and exhibit diverse cellular functions in breast cancers. In this review, we comprehensively outline the oncogenic and tumor suppressor roles of the NDRG family members in breast cancer, examining evidence from in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models as well as tumor tissues from breast cancer patients. We also present analyses of publicly available genomic and transcriptomic data from multiple independent cohorts of breast cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oncogenomic and Multi-Omic Data Science and Data Engineering)
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13 pages, 2359 KiB  
Article
Locating Electrified Aircraft Service to Reduce Urban Congestion
by Raj Bridgelall
Information 2024, 15(4), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15040186 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The relentless expansion of urban populations and the surge in e-commerce have increased the demand for rapid delivery services, leading to an increase in truck traffic that contributes to urban congestion, environmental pollution, and economic inefficiencies. The critical challenge this poses is not [...] Read more.
The relentless expansion of urban populations and the surge in e-commerce have increased the demand for rapid delivery services, leading to an increase in truck traffic that contributes to urban congestion, environmental pollution, and economic inefficiencies. The critical challenge this poses is not only in managing urban spaces efficiently but also in aligning with global sustainability goals. This study addresses the pressing need for innovative solutions to reduce reliance on truck transportation in congested urban areas without compromising the efficiency of freight delivery systems. This study contributes a novel approach that leverages electrified and autonomous aircraft (EAA) cargo shuttles to shift the bulk of air transportable freight from road to air, specifically targeting underutilized airports and establishing vertiports in remote locations. By applying data mining techniques to analyze freight flow data, this research identifies key commodity categories and metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) where the implementation of EAA services could significantly mitigate truck-induced congestion. The findings reveal that targeting a select few commodities and MSAs can potentially decrease truck traffic, with electronics emerging as the dominant commodity category, and cities like Los Angeles and Chicago as prime candidates for initial EAA service deployment. Stakeholders in urban planning, transportation logistics, and environmental policy will find this study’s insights beneficial. This work lays a foundation for future innovations in sustainable urban mobility and logistics. Full article
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