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Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.
Background: Lynch syndrome is an autosomal dominant condition that leads to an increased risk of many neoplasms. In the United Kingdom, NICE recommends that patients with colorectal and endometrial cancer should be tested for Lynch syndrome. There is conflicting evidence in the literature [...] Read more.
Background: Lynch syndrome is an autosomal dominant condition that leads to an increased risk of many neoplasms. In the United Kingdom, NICE recommends that patients with colorectal and endometrial cancer should be tested for Lynch syndrome. There is conflicting evidence in the literature on the link between breast cancer and Lynch syndrome. Case presentation: A 54-year-old woman presented with a lump in her right breast with a background of locally advanced colorectal cancer and Lynch syndrome due to a MLH1 gene mutation. A core biopsy showed a grade 3, invasive, triple-negative NST carcinoma. The tumour was triple-negative with patchy positivity for CK14 and CK5/6. Simultaneously, a cystic skin lesion in the contralateral breast was noted, which comprised lesional cells with a proliferation of clear cells and bland basaloid cells. The lesion had evidence of sebaceous differentiation with AR, podoplanin and p63 positivity. MSH1 and PMS2 deficiency was found in the breast and skin lesions. Conclusions: In Lynch syndrome, it is vital to be aware of the increased risk of various types of cancer. This case adds to the body of evidence of the spectrum of malignancies that can be encountered in patients with Lynch syndrome. Full article
Using a modified co-precipitation method, 11(2) nm γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles functionalized with PSSNa [Poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate)] saloplastic polymer were successfully synthesized, and their structural, vibrational, electronic, thermal, colloidal, hyperfine, and magnetic properties were systematically studied using various analytic techniques. The results showed [...] Read more.
Using a modified co-precipitation method, 11(2) nm γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles functionalized with PSSNa [Poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate)] saloplastic polymer were successfully synthesized, and their structural, vibrational, electronic, thermal, colloidal, hyperfine, and magnetic properties were systematically studied using various analytic techniques. The results showed that the functionalized γ-Fe2O3/PSSNa nanohybrid has physicochemical properties that allow it to be applied in the magnetic remediation process of water. Before being applied as a nanoadsorbent in real water treatment, a short-term acute assay was developed and standardized using a Daphnia magna biomarker. The ecotoxicological tests indicated that the different concentrations of the functionalized nanohybrid may affect the mortality of the Daphnia magna population during the first 24 h of exposure. A lethal concentration of 533(5) mg L−1 was found. At high concentrations, morphological changes were also seen in the body, heart, and antenna. Therefore, these results suggested the presence of alterations in normal growth and swimming skills. The main changes observed in the D. magna features were basically caused by the PSSNa polymer due to its highly stable colloidal properties (zeta potential > −30 mV) that permit a direct and constant interaction with the Daphnia magna neonates. Full article
To rapidly eliminate toluene from aqueous environments during leakage accidents, this paper synthesized porous silico-aluminate nanoparticles (SANs) via a hydrothermal method, using cost-effective and non-toxic natural kaolin as the basic raw material. The morphology and structure of the porous SANs were characterized using [...] Read more.
To rapidly eliminate toluene from aqueous environments during leakage accidents, this paper synthesized porous silico-aluminate nanoparticles (SANs) via a hydrothermal method, using cost-effective and non-toxic natural kaolin as the basic raw material. The morphology and structure of the porous SANs were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and BET-specific surface area tests. The effects of different conditions, such as the dosage of porous SANs, initial concentration of toluene, temperature, capture time, and pH, on the adsorption performance of porous SANs were analyzed. The as-prepared SANs exhibited a high removal efficiency and rapid adsorption performance toward toluene in aqueous solution. Finally, the kinetics of the adsorption of toluene in aqueous solution by porous SANs were investigated. The mechanism of the adsorption of toluene by porous SANs was further discussed. These findings provide a cost-effective and highly efficient absorbent for the emergency disposal of toluene leakage accidents. Full article
As the global aging population increases, the demand for rehabilitation of elderly hand conditions has attracted increased attention in the field of wearable sensors. Owing to their distinctive anti-electromagnetic interference properties, high sensitivity, and excellent biocompatibility, optical fiber sensors exhibit substantial potential for [...] Read more.
As the global aging population increases, the demand for rehabilitation of elderly hand conditions has attracted increased attention in the field of wearable sensors. Owing to their distinctive anti-electromagnetic interference properties, high sensitivity, and excellent biocompatibility, optical fiber sensors exhibit substantial potential for applications in monitoring finger movements, physiological parameters, and tactile responses during rehabilitation. This review provides a brief introduction to the principles and technologies of various fiber sensors, including the Fiber Bragg Grating sensor, self-luminescent stretchable optical fiber sensor, and optic fiber Fabry–Perot sensor. In addition, specific applications are discussed within the rehabilitation field. Furthermore, challenges inherent to current optical fiber sensing technology, such as enhancing the sensitivity and flexibility of the sensors, reducing their cost, and refining system integration, are also addressed. Due to technological developments and greater efforts by researchers, it is likely that wearable optical fiber sensors will become commercially available and extensively utilized for rehabilitation. Full article
To address the critical issue of polarization during lithium-ion battery charging and its adverse impact on battery capacity and lifespan, this research employs a comprehensive strategy that considers the charging duration, efficiency, and temperature increase. Central to this approach is the proposal of [...] Read more.
To address the critical issue of polarization during lithium-ion battery charging and its adverse impact on battery capacity and lifespan, this research employs a comprehensive strategy that considers the charging duration, efficiency, and temperature increase. Central to this approach is the proposal of a novel negative pulsed charging technique optimized using the Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II). This study initiates the creation of an intricate electrothermal coupling model, which simulates variations in internal battery parameters throughout the charging cycle. Subsequently, NSGA-II is implemented in MATLAB to fine-tune pulsed charging and discharging profiles, generating a Pareto front showcasing an array of optimal solutions tailored to a spectrum of goals. Leveraging the capabilities of the COMSOL Multiphysics software 6.2 platform, a high-fidelity simulation environment for lithium-ion battery charging is established that incorporates three charging strategies: constant-current (CC) charging, a multi-stage constant-current (MS-CC) charging protocol, and a pulsed-current (PC) charging strategy. This setup works as a powerful instrument for assessing the individual effects of these strategies on battery characteristics. The simulation results strongly support the superiority of the proposed pulsed-current charging strategy, which excels in increasing the battery temperature and amplifying battery charge capacity. This dual achievement not only bolsters charging efficiency significantly but also underscores the strategy’s potential to augment both the practical utility and long-term viability of lithium-ion batteries, thereby contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy storage solutions. Full article
The use of low-fluence picosecond (LFPS) 1064 nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers, referred to as laser toning, is increasingly acknowledged as an effective treatment for pigmentation disorders in the Asian skin phenotype. This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis on [...] Read more.
The use of low-fluence picosecond (LFPS) 1064 nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers, referred to as laser toning, is increasingly acknowledged as an effective treatment for pigmentation disorders in the Asian skin phenotype. This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis on the effectiveness and safety of utilizing LFPS 1064 nm Nd:YAG lasers against picosecond 532 nm Nd:YAG lasers in treating pigmented lesions among Chinese patients. A retrospective photographic analysis and chart reviews were performed on 31 subjects exhibiting Fitzpatrick skin types III–VI who underwent LFPS 1064 nm Nd:YAG or picosecond 532 nm Nd:YAG treatments at a single tertiary center. Utilizing VISIA Complexion Analysis, comparative photographs were taken. Two independent physicians evaluated treatment efficacy using a visual analog scale (VAS) to assess the percentage of pigmentary clearance in standard photographs. Solar lentigines were the most prevalent pigmentary disorder, followed by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), nevus zygomaticus, melasma, freckles, and nevus of Ota. The clinical effectiveness of picosecond 532 nm and LFPS 1064 nm laser treatments proved comparable for lesions on the face, with mean VAS scores of 2.2 ± 1.1 and 1.8 ± 0.8, respectively. There were two cases of PIH in the picosecond 532 nm group, which resolved within one month. Overall, the LFPS 1064 nm laser demonstrates promise as a safe and efficient therapeutic modality for managing pigmented lesions in Chinese patients. Full article
We investigated a flat-type p*-p LED composed of a p*-electrode with a local breakdown conductive channel (LBCC) formed in the p-type electrode region by applying reverse bias. By locally connecting the p*-electrode to the n-type layer via an LBCC, a flat-type LED structure [...] Read more.
We investigated a flat-type p*-p LED composed of a p*-electrode with a local breakdown conductive channel (LBCC) formed in the p-type electrode region by applying reverse bias. By locally connecting the p*-electrode to the n-type layer via an LBCC, a flat-type LED structure is applied that can replace the n-type electrode without a mesa-etching process. Flat-type p*-p LEDs, devoid of the mesa process, demonstrate outstanding characteristics, boasting comparable light output power to conventional mesa-type n-p LEDs at the same injection current. However, they incur higher operating voltages, attributed to the smaller size of the p* region used as the n-type electrode compared to conventional n-p LEDs. Therefore, despite having comparable external quantum efficiency stemming from similar light output, flat-type p*-p LEDs exhibit diminished wall-plug efficiency (WPE) and voltage efficiency (VE) owing to elevated operating voltages. To address this, our study aimed to mitigate the series resistance of flat-type p*-p LEDs by augmenting the number of LBCCs to enhance the contact area, thereby reducing overall resistance. This structure holds promise for elevating WPE and VE by aligning the operating voltage more closely with that of mesa-type n-p LEDs. Consequently, rectifying the issue of high operating voltages in planar p*-p LEDs enables the creation of efficient LEDs devoid of crystal defects resulting from mesa-etching processes. Full article
To solve the problems of brittleness, high cost, and the complicated construction process of traditional filling materials for filling abandoned roadways, various aspects of the physical and mechanical properties of the materials were studied using laboratory tests and were applied in coal mines. [...] Read more.
To solve the problems of brittleness, high cost, and the complicated construction process of traditional filling materials for filling abandoned roadways, various aspects of the physical and mechanical properties of the materials were studied using laboratory tests and were applied in coal mines. The research shows that the self-developed inorganic cementitious filling material has the advantages of being low cost, easy to cut and wash, and having good filling performance. A foaming agent is a direct factor in controlling the volume expansion of inorganic cementitious filling materials; the increase in the volume of slurry foaming with the addition of a foaming agent initially showed a large and then a small trend with a foaming agent dosage of 100 g. The increase in the volume of slurry foaming is the largest at 56.28%. The effect of the B material (calcium stearate+ J85 rapid-setting agent) on the foaming time and the number of foaming times of the slurry was significant. Foam stabilizers in the B material make the slurry particles uniformly distributed inside the slurry, while quick-setting agents control the initial and final setting time by affecting the slurry setting speed. The water/cement ratio directly affects the foaming times of the slurry but has little effect on the foaming time and setting speed. When the water/cement ratio is less than 1:2, the slurry foaming effect is poor, and the foaming volume remains unchanged. The strength of the material is significantly affected by the proportion of B material and the amount of blowing agent, and the compressive strength of materials with different compositions and ratios varies greatly. A whole set of systems of new inorganic gelatinized abandoned roadway filling materials was researched and applied in coal mines, achieving good results. Full article
Self-supervised learning continues to drive advancements in machine learning. However, the absence of unified computational processes for benchmarking and evaluation remains a challenge. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of state-of-the-art self-supervised learning algorithms, emphasizing their underlying mechanisms and computational intricacies. Building upon [...] Read more.
Self-supervised learning continues to drive advancements in machine learning. However, the absence of unified computational processes for benchmarking and evaluation remains a challenge. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of state-of-the-art self-supervised learning algorithms, emphasizing their underlying mechanisms and computational intricacies. Building upon this analysis, we introduce a unified model-agnostic computation (UMAC) process, tailored to complement modern self-supervised learning algorithms. UMAC serves as a model-agnostic and global explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) methodology that is capable of systematically integrating and enhancing state-of-the-art algorithms. Through UMAC, we identify key computational mechanisms and craft a unified framework for self-supervised learning evaluation. Leveraging UMAC, we integrate an XAI methodology to enhance transparency and interpretability. Our systematic approach yields a 17.12% increase in improvement in training time complexity and a 13.1% boost in improvement in testing time complexity. Notably, improvements are observed in augmentation, encoder architecture, and auxiliary components within the network classifier. These findings underscore the importance of structured computational processes in enhancing model efficiency and fortifying algorithmic transparency in self-supervised learning, paving the way for more interpretable and efficient AI models. Full article
by Carlos T. Hiranobe, Andressa S. Gomes, Fábio F. G. Paiva, Gabrieli R. Tolosa, Leonardo L. Paim, Guilherme Dognani, Guilherme P. Cardim, Henrique P. Cardim, Renivaldo J. dos Santos and Flávio C. Cabrera
Sugarcane has primarily been used for sugar and ethanol production. It creates large quantities of residual lignocellulosic biomass such as sugarcane bagasse, leaves, tops, and vinasse. Biomass is a sustainable prospect for biorefineries aiming to optimize production processes. We detail recent research developments [...] Read more.
Sugarcane has primarily been used for sugar and ethanol production. It creates large quantities of residual lignocellulosic biomass such as sugarcane bagasse, leaves, tops, and vinasse. Biomass is a sustainable prospect for biorefineries aiming to optimize production processes. We detail recent research developments in recycling sugarcane, including energy generation and pyrolysis to obtain biofuels, for example. To produce biochar, the energy cost of operating at high temperatures and large-scale production remain as obstacles. The energy generation prospects can be enhanced by pellet production; however, it requires an improvement in quality control for long-term storage or long-distance transportation. In civil construction, the materials still need to prove their long-term efficiency and reliability. Related to adsorbent materials, the use of sugarcane bagasse has the advantage of being low-cost and environmentally friendly. Nevertheless, the extraction, functionalization, and modification of cellulose fibers, to improve their adsorption properties or even mode of operation, still challenges. The synthesis of nanostructures is still lacking high yields and the ability to scale up. Finally, controlling dispersion and orientation and avoiding fiber agglomeration could improve the mechanical response of composites using sugarcane bagasse. The different possibilities for using sugarcane and its residues reinforce the importance of this material for the industry and the global economy. Thus, the present work addresses current challenges and perspectives of different industrial processes involving sugarcane aiming to support future research on waste-derived subjects. Full article
This study addresses the challenges of setting segmentation points in the membership function and determining appropriate weights for different types of information within a fuzzy logic algorithm for map matching. We use linear fitting to derive an empirical formula for setting segmentation points [...] Read more.
This study addresses the challenges of setting segmentation points in the membership function and determining appropriate weights for different types of information within a fuzzy logic algorithm for map matching. We use linear fitting to derive an empirical formula for setting segmentation points for the information membership function. Furthermore, we evaluate the effects of various weights for direction and distance information in parallel and cross-road scenarios. The research identified the optimal distance that achieves the highest matching accuracy and provided insights into how the weights of connection, direction, and distance information affect this accuracy. The simulations confirmed the critical importance of precise segmentation point settings and weight determinations in enhancing the accuracy of fuzzy logic algorithms for map matching. The results underscore the potency of our tailored parameter-setting strategy and contribute to knowledge of symmetry, offering practical insights for implementing fuzzy logic in map matching with a particular emphasis on the principle of symmetry in algorithm design and information processing. Full article
by Eboni M. V. Bucknor, Errin Johnson, Stephanie Efthymiou, Javeria R. Alvi, Tipu Sultan, Henry Houlden, Reza Maroofian, Ehsan G. Karimiani, Mattéa J. Finelli and Peter L. Oliver
Antioxidants2024, 13(6), 685; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13060685 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Loss-of-function mutations in the TLDc family of proteins cause a range of severe childhood-onset neurological disorders with common clinical features that include cerebellar neurodegeneration, ataxia and epilepsy. Of these proteins, oxidation resistance 1 (OXR1) has been implicated in multiple cellular pathways related to [...] Read more.
Loss-of-function mutations in the TLDc family of proteins cause a range of severe childhood-onset neurological disorders with common clinical features that include cerebellar neurodegeneration, ataxia and epilepsy. Of these proteins, oxidation resistance 1 (OXR1) has been implicated in multiple cellular pathways related to antioxidant function, transcriptional regulation and cellular survival; yet how this relates to the specific neuropathological features in disease remains unclear. Here, we investigate a range of loss-of-function mouse model systems and reveal that constitutive deletion of Oxr1 leads to a rapid and striking neuroinflammatory response prior to neurodegeneration that is associated with lysosomal pathology. We go on to show that neuroinflammation and cell death in Oxr1 knockouts can be completely rescued by the neuronal expression of Oxr1, suggesting that the phenotype is driven by the cell-intrinsic defects of neuronal cells lacking the gene. Next, we generate a ubiquitous, adult inducible knockout of Oxr1 that surprisingly displays rapid-onset ataxia and cerebellar neurodegeneration, establishing for the first time that the distinctive pathology associated with the loss of Oxr1 occurs irrespective of developmental stage. Finally, we describe two new homozygous human pathogenic variants in OXR1 that cause neurodevelopmental delay, including a novel stop-gain mutation. We also compare functionally two missense human pathogenic mutations in OXR1, including one newly described here, that cause different clinical phenotypes but demonstrate partially retained neuroprotective activity against oxidative stress. Together, these data highlight the essential role of Oxr1 in modulating neuroinflammatory and lysosomal pathways in the mammalian brain and support the hypothesis that OXR1 protein dosage may be critical for pathological outcomes in disease. Full article
Radio observations from normal pulsars indicate that the coherent radio emission is excited by curvature radiation from charge bunches. In this review, we provide a systematic description of the various observational constraints on the radio emission mechanism. We have discussed the presence of [...] Read more.
Radio observations from normal pulsars indicate that the coherent radio emission is excited by curvature radiation from charge bunches. In this review, we provide a systematic description of the various observational constraints on the radio emission mechanism. We have discussed the presence of highly polarized time samples where the polarization position angle follow two orthogonal well-defined tracks across the profile that closely match the rotating vector model in an identical manner. The observations also show the presence of circular polarization, with both the right and left handed circular polarization seen across the profile. Other constraints on the emission mechanism are provided by the detailed measurements of the spectral index variation across the profile window, where the central part of the profile, corresponding to the core component, has a steeper spectrum than the surrounding cones. Finally, the detailed measurements of the subpulse drifting behaviour can be explained by considering the presence of non-dipolar field on the stellar surface and the formation of the partially screened gap (PSG) above the polar cap region. The PSG gives rise to a non-stationary plasma flow that has a multi-component nature, consisting of highly energetic primary particles, secondary pair plasma, and iron ions discharged from the surface, with large fragmentation resulting in dense plasma clouds and lower-density inter-cloud regions. The physical properties of the outflowing plasma and the observational constraints lead us to consider coherent curvature radiation as the most viable explanation for the emission mechanism in normal pulsars, where propagation effects due to adiabatic walking and refraction are largely inconsequential. Full article
by Raquel Curtinhas de Lima, Helver Gonçalves Dias, Thiara Manuele Alves de Souza, Débora Familiar-Macedo, Edcelha D’Athaide Ribeiro, Valmir Corrêa e Corrêa, Alex Pauvolid-Corrêa, Elzinandes Leal de Azeredo and Flávia Barreto dos Santos
Pathogens2024, 13(6), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060469 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV) is an arbovirus transmitted by midges that has been involved in outbreaks throughout Central and South America. In Brazil, human cases have been historically concentrated in the northern region of the country. Oropouche fever in humans range from mild clinical [...] Read more.
Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV) is an arbovirus transmitted by midges that has been involved in outbreaks throughout Central and South America. In Brazil, human cases have been historically concentrated in the northern region of the country. Oropouche fever in humans range from mild clinical signs to rare neurological events, and is considered a neglected tropical disease in Brazil. Due to the clinical similarities to other arboviruses, such as chikungunya and dengue viruses, OROV infections are likely to be underreported. Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) cases in Brazil were first recognized in 2014 in the states of Amapá and Bahia in the north and northeast regions, respectively. Both OROV and CHIKV cause nonspecific symptoms, making clinical diagnosis difficult in a scenario of arbovirus cocirculation. Aiming to investigate OROV transmission during the CHIKV introduction in the state of Amapá located in the Brazilian Amazon, we conducted a retrospective molecular (RT-qPCR) and serological investigation in febrile cases (N = 166) collected between August 2014 and May 2015. All acute serum samples were negative for OROV RNA using RT-qPCR. However, neutralizing antibodies for OROV were detected using a plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT90) in 10.24% (17/166) of the patients, with neutralizing antibody titers ranging from 20 to ≥640, suggesting the previous exposure of patients to OROV. Regarding CHIKV, recent exposure was confirmed by the detection of CHIKV RNA in 20.25% (33/163) of the patients and by the detection of anti-CHIKV IgM in 28.57% (44/154) of the patients. The additional detection of anti-CHIKV IgG in 12.58% (19/151) of the febrile patients suggests that some individuals had been previously exposed to CHIKV. Whether the OROV exposure reported here occurred prior or during the CHIKV circulation in Amapá, is unknown, but because those arboviral infections share similar clinical signs and symptoms, a silent circulation of enzootic arboviruses during the introduction of exotic arboviruses may occur, and highlights the importance of syndromic cases’ surveillance to arboviruses in Brazil. Full article
Pinellia ternata is a medicinal plant that has important pharmacological value, and the bulbils serve as the primary reproductive organ; however, the mechanisms underlying bulbil initiation remain unclear. Here, we characterized bulbil development via histological, transcriptomic, and targeted metabolomic analyses to unearth the [...] Read more.
Pinellia ternata is a medicinal plant that has important pharmacological value, and the bulbils serve as the primary reproductive organ; however, the mechanisms underlying bulbil initiation remain unclear. Here, we characterized bulbil development via histological, transcriptomic, and targeted metabolomic analyses to unearth the intricate relationship between hormones, genes, and bulbil development. The results show that the bulbils initiate growth from the leaf axillary meristem (AM). In this stage, jasmonic acid (JA), abscisic acid (ABA), isopentenyl adenosine (IPA), and salicylic acid (SA) were highly enriched, while indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), zeatin, methyl jasmonate (MeJA), and 5-dexoxystrigol (5-DS) were notably decreased. Through OPLS-DA analysis, SA has emerged as the most crucial factor in initiating and positively regulating bulbil formation. Furthermore, a strong association between IPA and SA was observed during bulbil initiation. The transcriptional changes in IPT (Isopentenyltransferase), CRE1 (Cytokinin Response 1), A-ARR (Type-A Arabidopsis Response Regulator), B-ARR (Type-B Arabidopsis Response Regulator), AUX1 (Auxin Resistant 1), ARF (Auxin Response Factor), AUX/IAA (Auxin/Indole-3-acetic acid), GH3 (Gretchen Hagen 3), SAUR (Small Auxin Up RNA), GA2ox (Gibberellin 2-oxidase), GA20ox (Gibberellin 20-oxidase), AOS (Allene oxide synthase), AOC (Allene oxide cyclase), OPR (Oxophytodienoate Reductase), JMT (JA carboxy l Methyltransferase), COI1 (Coronatine Insensitive 1), JAZ (Jasmonate ZIM-domain), MYC2 (Myelocytomatosis 2), D27 (DWARF27), SMAX (Suppressor of MAX2), PAL (Phenylalanine Ammonia-Lyase), ICS (Isochorismate Synthase), NPR1 (Non-expressor of Pathogenesis-related Genes1), TGA (TGACG Sequence-specific Binding), PR-1 (Pathogenesis-related), MCSU (Molybdenium Cofactor Sulfurase), PP2C (Protein Phosphatase 2C), and SnRK (Sucrose Non-fermenting-related Protein Kinase 2) were highly correlated with hormone concentrations, indicating that bulbil initiation is coordinately controlled by multiple phytohormones. Notably, eight TFs (transcription factors) that regulate AM initiation have been identified as pivotal regulators of bulbil formation. Among these, WUS (WUSCHEL), CLV (CLAVATA), ATH1 (Arabidopsis Thaliana Homeobox Gene 1), and RAX (Regulator of Axillary meristems) have been observed to exhibit elevated expression levels. Conversely, LEAFY demonstrated contrasting expression patterns. The intricate expression profiles of these TFs are closely associated with the upregulated expression of KNOX(KNOTTED-like homeobox), suggesting a intricate regulatory network underlying the complex process of bulbil initiation. This study offers a profound understanding of the bulbil initiation process and could potentially aid in refining molecular breeding techniques specific to P. ternata. Full article
by Ahmad Abou-Hamde, Lauren Philippi, Eric Jones, Christian Martin, Kingsley Wu, Michael Kundell, Sunita Mathur, Alireza Sadeghian, Maryam Davoudpour, Jane Batt, Adriana Ieraci and Sharon Gabison
Sensors2024, 24(11), 3599; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113599 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
We assessed the feasibility of implementing a virtually guided Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) protocol over the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle while collecting heart rate (HR), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and quality of contraction (QoC) data. We investigated if HR, NPRS, and QoC [...] Read more.
We assessed the feasibility of implementing a virtually guided Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) protocol over the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle while collecting heart rate (HR), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and quality of contraction (QoC) data. We investigated if HR, NPRS, and QoC differ ON and OFF the TA motor point and explored potential relationships between heart rate variability (HRV) and the NPRS. Twelve healthy adults participated in this cross-sectional study. Three NMES trials were delivered ON and OFF the TA motor point. HR, QoC, and NPRS data were collected. There was no significant difference in HRV ON and OFF the motor point (p > 0.05). The NPRS was significantly greater OFF the motor point (p < 0.05). The QoC was significantly different between motor point configurations (p < 0.05). There was no correlation between the NPRS and HRV (p > 0.05, r = −0.129). We recommend non-electrical methods of measuring muscle activity for future studies. The NPRS and QoC can be administered virtually. Time-domain HRV measures could increase the validity of the protocol. The variables should be explored further virtually to enhance the protocol before eventual ICU studies. Full article
The development of health indicators to measure healthy life expectancy (HLE) is an active field of research aimed at summarizing the health of a population. Although many health indicators have emerged in the literature as critical metrics in public health assessments, the methods [...] Read more.
The development of health indicators to measure healthy life expectancy (HLE) is an active field of research aimed at summarizing the health of a population. Although many health indicators have emerged in the literature as critical metrics in public health assessments, the methods and data to conduct this evaluation vary considerably in nature and quality. Traditionally, health data collection relies on population surveys. However, these studies, typically of limited size, encompass only a small yet representative segment of the population. This limitation can necessitate the separate estimation of incidence and mortality rates, significantly restricting the available analysis methods. In this article, we leverage an extract from the French National Hospital Discharge database to define health indicators. Our analysis focuses on the resulting Disease-Free Life Expectancy (Dis-FLE) indicator, which provides insights based on the hospital trajectory of each patient admitted to hospital in France during 2008–2013. Through this research, we illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of employing large clinical datasets as the foundation for more robust health indicators. We shed light on the opportunities that such data offer for a more comprehensive understanding of the health status of a population. In particular, we estimate age-dependent hazard rates associated with sex, alcohol abuse, tobacco consumption, and obesity, as well as geographic location. Simultaneously, we delve into the challenges and limitations that arise when adopting such a data-driven approach. Full article
Here, a comprehensive investigation was conducted under various operational strategies aimed at enhancing biohydrogen production via dark fermentation, with a specific focus on the lactate metabolic pathway, using powdered cheese whey as a substrate. Initially, a batch configuration was tested to determine both [...] Read more.
Here, a comprehensive investigation was conducted under various operational strategies aimed at enhancing biohydrogen production via dark fermentation, with a specific focus on the lactate metabolic pathway, using powdered cheese whey as a substrate. Initially, a batch configuration was tested to determine both the maximum hydrogen yield (100.2 ± 4.2 NmL H2/g CODfed) and the substrate (total carbohydrates) consumption efficiency (94.4 ± 0.8%). Subsequently, a transition to continuous operation was made by testing five different operational phases: control (I), incorporation of an inert support medium for biomass fixation (II), addition of carbon-coated, zero-valent iron nanoparticles (CC-nZVI NPs) at 100 mg/L (III), and supplementation of Fe2O3 nanoparticles at concentrations of 100 mg/L (IV) and 300 mg/L (V). The results emphasized the critical role of the support medium in stabilizing the continuous system. On the other hand, a remarkable increase of 10% in hydrogen productivity was observed with the addition of Fe2O3 NPs (300 mg/L). The analysis of the organic acids’ composition unveiled a positive correlation between high butyrate concentrations and improved volumetric hydrogen production rates (25 L H2/L-d). Moreover, the presence of iron-based NPs effectively regulated the lactate concentration, maintaining it at low levels. Further exploration of the bacterial community dynamics revealed a mutually beneficial interaction between lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and hydrogen-producing bacteria (HPB) throughout the experimental process, with Prevotella, Clostridium, and Lactobacillus emerging as the predominant genera. In conclusion, this study highlighted the promising potential of nanoparticle addition as a tool for boosting biohydrogen productivity via lactate-driven dark fermentation. Full article
The ability of bone biomaterials to promote osteogenic differentiation is crucial for the repair and regeneration of osseous tissue. The development of a temporary bone substitute is of major importance in enhancing the growth and differentiation of human-derived stem cells into an osteogenic [...] Read more.
The ability of bone biomaterials to promote osteogenic differentiation is crucial for the repair and regeneration of osseous tissue. The development of a temporary bone substitute is of major importance in enhancing the growth and differentiation of human-derived stem cells into an osteogenic lineage. In this study, nanocomposite hydrogels composed of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), bioactive glass (BG), and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were developed to create a bone biomaterial that mimics the structural and electrically conductive nature of bone that can promote the differentiation of human-derived stem cells. GelMA-BG-MWCNT nanocomposite hydrogels supported mesenchymal stem cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells, hereinafter named iMSCs. Cell adhesion was improved upon coating nanocomposite hydrogels with fibronectin and was further enhanced when seeding pre-differentiated iMSCs. Osteogenic differentiation and mature mineralization were promoted in GelMA-BG-MWCNT nanocomposite hydrogels and were most evidently observed in the 70-30-2 hydrogels, which could be due to the stiff topography characteristic from the addition of MWCNT. Overall, the results of this study showed that GelMA-BG-MWCNT nanocomposite hydrogels coated with fibronectin possessed a favorable environment in which pre-differentiated iMSCs could better attach, proliferate, and further mature into an osteogenic lineage, which was crucial for the repair and regeneration of bone. Full article
Previous studies have shown that dietary cholest-4-en-3-one (4-cholestenone, 4-STN) exerts anti-obesity and lipid-lowering effects in mice. However, its underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In the present study, we evaluated whether 4-STN supplementation would protect obese diabetic db/db mice from obesity-related metabolic disorders. [...] Read more.
Previous studies have shown that dietary cholest-4-en-3-one (4-cholestenone, 4-STN) exerts anti-obesity and lipid-lowering effects in mice. However, its underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In the present study, we evaluated whether 4-STN supplementation would protect obese diabetic db/db mice from obesity-related metabolic disorders. After four weeks of feeding of a 0.25% 4-STN-containing diet, dietary 4-STN was found to have significantly alleviated hyperlipidemia, hepatic cholesterol accumulation, and hyperinsulinemia; however, the effect was not sufficient to improve hepatic triglyceride accumulation or obesity. Further analysis demonstrated that dietary 4-STN significantly increased the content of free fatty acids and neutral steroids in the feces of db/db mice, indicating that the alleviation of hyperlipidemia by 4-STN was due to an increase in lipid excretion. In addition, dietary 4-STN significantly reduced the levels of desmosterol, a cholesterol precursor, in the plasma but not in the liver, suggesting that normalization of cholesterol metabolism by 4-STN is partly attributable to the suppression of cholesterol synthesis in extrahepatic tissues. In addition, dietary 4-STN increased the plasma and hepatic levels of 4-STN metabolites cholestanol (5α-cholestan-3β-ol) and coprostanol (5β-cholestan-3β-ol). Our results show that dietary 4-STN alleviates obesity-related metabolic disorders, such as hyperlipidemia, hepatic cholesterol accumulation, and hyperinsulinemia, in db/db mice. Full article
In the study of some real cases, it is possible to encounter well-defined geometric conditions, of an industrial or design type—for example, the case of a specific volume within each of several holes. In most of these cases, it is recommended to fulfil [...] Read more.
In the study of some real cases, it is possible to encounter well-defined geometric conditions, of an industrial or design type—for example, the case of a specific volume within each of several holes. In most of these cases, it is recommended to fulfil a function defined in a domain in which information is missing in one or more sub-domains (holes) of the global set, where the function data are not known. The problem of filling holes or completing a surface in three dimensions appears in many fields of computing, such as computer-aided geometric design (CAGD). A method to solve the shape-preserving variational spline approximation problem for hole filling in generalized offset surfaces is presented. The existence and uniqueness of the solution of the studied method are established, as well as the computation, and certain convergence results are analyzed. A graphic and numerical example complete this study to demonstrate the effectiveness of the presented method. This manuscript presents the resolution of a complicated problem due to the study of some criteria that can be traduced via an approximation problem related to generalized offset surfaces with holes and also the preservation of the shape of such surfaces. Full article
The anti-electromagnetic interference capability of partial discharge (PD) acoustic signal conversion and collection circuits severely restrict the sensitivity of PD detection. The data acquisition (DAQ) systems available in the current market are costly and have limited functionality, making it difficult to satisfy the [...] Read more.
The anti-electromagnetic interference capability of partial discharge (PD) acoustic signal conversion and collection circuits severely restrict the sensitivity of PD detection. The data acquisition (DAQ) systems available in the current market are costly and have limited functionality, making it difficult to satisfy the acquisition requirements for PD detection. This paper proposes a medium to high-speed fiber optic signal acquisition board with an adjustably controlled sampling rate and filter cutoff frequency. The circuit achieves a higher signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio by distributing the noise in each part of the signal acquisition chain reasonably. The temperature characteristics of the acquisition module are improved by utilizing the programmable T-type structure for transimpedance amplification of photocurrent. The DAQ card performs data acquisition and processing using STM32H743 internal ADC and caches data in bulk with an SRAM and SD card. A data uploading method based on time reference has been proposed, which enables full, effective information signal upload through a low-cost transmission interface. The research ultimately achieves a stable sampling of three channels at 1 MSps, SNR of 63 dB, and programmable gain amplification of the photocurrent with 0–60 dB. Finally, the system is used for PD acoustic signal acquisition in the frequency range of 20 Hz to 100 kHz. Full article
While recent studies have proven an unexpected liquid–vapor phase transition of adsorbed liquid films, a comprehensive description of the mechanisms of different types of phase change regimes over realistic representations of random rough surfaces is absent in the literature. The current comprehensive study [...] Read more.
While recent studies have proven an unexpected liquid–vapor phase transition of adsorbed liquid films, a comprehensive description of the mechanisms of different types of phase change regimes over realistic representations of random rough surfaces is absent in the literature. The current comprehensive study investigates the effects of a gold random rough surface, liquid film thickness, and substrate temperature on the liquid–vapor phase change regime of an adsorbed sodium liquid film, considering the evaporator section of a wicked heat pipe (WHP) using a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. At first, to generate a realistic random rough surface, a new and promising method is proposed that is entirely based on MD simulations. Then, to simulate the evaporator section of a WHP, a unique configuration for eliminating the vapor domain is developed. The simulation results reveal that three distinct regimes, namely, normal evaporation, cluster boiling, and film boiling, could be identified, which are presented on two-dimensional diagrams with the substrate temperature and liquid film thickness as coordinates for the ideally smooth and random rough surfaces. The results also manifest that even though using the random rough surface could lead to different phase transition regimes, the type of regime depends mainly on the substrate temperature and liquid film thickness. Furthermore, this study displays two different modes for normal evaporation. Also, it is shown that the impacts of the liquid film thickness and substrate temperature on the mode of normal evaporation are much more significant than the surface roughness. Full article