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13 pages, 4102 KiB  
Review
Preparation of Phage Display cDNA Libraries for Identifying Immunogenic Tumor Antigens: Challenges in Functional cDNA Presentation and Approaches to Overcoming Them
by Nuša Brišar, Katja Šuster and Andrej Cör
Viruses 2024, 16(12), 1855; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16121855 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Cancer continues to represent a substantial burden in terms of its morbidity and mortality, underscoring the imperative for the development of novel and efficacious treatment modalities. Recent advances in cancer immunotherapy have highlighted the importance of identifying tumour-specific antigens, which can assist the [...] Read more.
Cancer continues to represent a substantial burden in terms of its morbidity and mortality, underscoring the imperative for the development of novel and efficacious treatment modalities. Recent advances in cancer immunotherapy have highlighted the importance of identifying tumour-specific antigens, which can assist the immune system in targeting malignant cells effectively. Phage display technology has emerged as an effective tool for the discovery of novel antigens through cDNA library screening, representing a significant advancement in the field of immunological research. This review examines the discovery of tumour antigens using phage display technology, emphasising the construction of cDNA libraries, their subsequent display on bacteriophages and the utilisation of diverse biopanning techniques. These elements play a pivotal role in advancing the discovery of novel tumour antigens and the development of targeted cancer therapies. This review addresses the challenges associated with the filamentous phage display of cDNA libraries and proposes strategies to improve the effectiveness of this approach, encouraging further research for clinical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Viruses)
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12 pages, 2210 KiB  
Article
Clinical and Cytogenetic Impact of Maternal Balanced Double Translocation: A Familial Case of 15q11.2 Microduplication and Microdeletion Syndromes with Genetic Counselling Implications
by Daniela Koeller R. Vieira, Ingrid Bendas Feres Lima, Carla Rosenberg, Carlos Roberto da Fonseca, Leonardo Henrique Ferreira Gomes, Letícia da Cunha Guida, Patrícia Camacho Mazzonetto, Juan Llerena, Jr. and Elenice Ferreira Bastos
Genes 2024, 15(12), 1546; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15121546 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Background: Balanced chromosomal translocations occur in approximately 0.16 to 0.20% of live births. While most carriers are phenotypically normal, they are at risk of generating unbalanced gametes during meiosis, leading to genetic anomalies such as aneuploidies, deletions, duplications, and gene disruptions. These anomalies [...] Read more.
Background: Balanced chromosomal translocations occur in approximately 0.16 to 0.20% of live births. While most carriers are phenotypically normal, they are at risk of generating unbalanced gametes during meiosis, leading to genetic anomalies such as aneuploidies, deletions, duplications, and gene disruptions. These anomalies can result in spontaneous abortions or congenital anomalies, including neurodevelopmental disorders. Complex chromosomal rearrangements (CCRs) involving more than two chromosomes are rare but further increase the probability of producing unbalanced gametes. Neurodevelopmental disorders such as Angelman syndrome (AS) and duplication 15q11q13 syndrome (Dup15q) are associated with such chromosomal abnormalities. Methods: This study describes a family with a de novo maternal balanced double translocation involving chromosomes 13, 19, and 15, resulting in two offspring with unbalanced chromosomal abnormalities. Cytogenetic evaluations were performed using GTG banding, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and low-pass whole-genome sequencing (LP-WGS). Methylation analysis was conducted using methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting (MS-HRM) to diagnose Angelman syndrome. Results: The cytogenetic and molecular analyses identified an 8.9 Mb duplication in 15q11.2q13.3 in one child, and an 8.9 Mb deletion in the same region in the second child. Both abnormalities affected critical neurodevelopmental genes, such as SNRPN. FISH and MS-HRM confirmed the chromosomal imbalances and the diagnosis of Angelman syndrome in the second child. The maternal balanced translocation was found to be cryptic, contributing to the complex inheritance pattern. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of using multiple genetic platforms to uncover complex chromosomal rearrangements and their impact on neurodevelopmental disorders. The findings underscore the need for thorough genetic counseling, especially in families with such rare chromosomal alterations, to manage reproductive outcomes and neurodevelopmental risks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetic Diagnosis)
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19 pages, 2807 KiB  
Article
Quantifying Lenition as a Diagnostic Marker for Parkinson’s Disease and Atypical Parkinsonism
by Ratree Wayland, Rachel Meyer, Ruhi Reddy, Kevin Tang and Karen W. Hegland
BioMedInformatics 2024, 4(4), 2287-2305; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedinformatics4040123 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate lenition, a phonological process involving consonant weakening, as a diagnostic marker for differentiating Parkinson’s Disease (PD) from Atypical Parkinsonism (APD). Early diagnosis is critical for optimizing treatment outcomes, and lenition patterns in stop consonants may provide valuable [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate lenition, a phonological process involving consonant weakening, as a diagnostic marker for differentiating Parkinson’s Disease (PD) from Atypical Parkinsonism (APD). Early diagnosis is critical for optimizing treatment outcomes, and lenition patterns in stop consonants may provide valuable insights into the distinct motor speech impairments associated with these conditions. Methods: Using Phonet, a machine learning model trained to detect phonological features, we analyzed the posterior probabilities of continuant and sonorant features from the speech of 142 participants (108 PD, 34 APD). Lenition was quantified based on deviations from expected values, and linear mixed-effects models were applied to compare phonological patterns between the two groups. Results: PD patients exhibited more stable articulatory patterns, particularly in preserving the contrast between voiced and voiceless stops. In contrast, APD patients showed greater lenition, particularly in voiceless stops, coupled with increased articulatory variability, reflecting a more generalized motor deficit. Conclusions: Lenition patterns, especially in voiceless stops, may serve as non-invasive markers for distinguishing PD from APD. These findings suggest potential applications in early diagnosis and tracking disease progression. Future research should expand the analysis to include a broader range of phonological features and contexts to improve diagnostic accuracy. Full article
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19 pages, 3145 KiB  
Article
Biological and Chemical Processes of Nitrate Reduction and Ferrous Oxidation Mediated by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1
by Lingyu Hou, Xiangyu Bai, Zihe Sima, Jiani Zhang, Luyao Yan, Ding Li and Yongguang Jiang
Microorganisms 2024, 12(12), 2454; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12122454 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Iron, Earth’s most abundant redox-active metal, undergoes both abiotic and microbial redox reactions that regulate the formation, transformation, and dissolution of iron minerals. The electron transfer between ferrous iron (Fe(II)) and ferric iron (Fe(III)) is critical for mineral dynamics, pollutant remediation, and global [...] Read more.
Iron, Earth’s most abundant redox-active metal, undergoes both abiotic and microbial redox reactions that regulate the formation, transformation, and dissolution of iron minerals. The electron transfer between ferrous iron (Fe(II)) and ferric iron (Fe(III)) is critical for mineral dynamics, pollutant remediation, and global biogeochemical cycling. Bacteria play a significant role, especially in anaerobic Fe(II) oxidation, contributing to Fe(III) mineral formation in oxygen-depleted environments. In iron-rich, neutral anaerobic settings, microbial nitrate-reducing Fe(II) oxidation (NRFO) and iron reduction processes happen simultaneously. This study used Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 to create an anaerobic NRFO system between Fe(II) and nitrate, revealing concurrent Fe(II) oxidation and nitrate reduction. Both gene-mediated biological Fe(II) oxidation and chemical Fe(II) oxidation, facilitated by nitrite (a byproduct of nitrate reduction), were observed. The MtrABC gene cluster was linked to this process. At low Fe(II) concentrations, toxicity and mineral precipitation inhibited nitrate reduction by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, whereas high Fe(II) levels led to Fe(II) oxidation, resulting in cell encrustation, which further constrained nitrate reduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Microbiology)
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14 pages, 2419 KiB  
Article
Computational Methodology for the Development of Wrinkled Tubes by Plastic Deformation
by Samara C. R. Soares, Gilmar C. Silva and Elza M. M. Fonseca
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(23), 11126; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142311126 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Traditional methods for wrinkled tubes involve welding processes and additional elements, such as plates, screws, rivets, and guides. Considering all the limitations of these processes, this work aims to propose a methodology that allows for maximising the manufacturing process of carbon steel tube [...] Read more.
Traditional methods for wrinkled tubes involve welding processes and additional elements, such as plates, screws, rivets, and guides. Considering all the limitations of these processes, this work aims to propose a methodology that allows for maximising the manufacturing process of carbon steel tube joints with seaming using cold forming and minimising the cost of the final product. Therefore, the present work aims to develop a computational model, based on the finite element method, to optimise the deformation process of T6 Aluminium tubes (ø 45 × ø 38.6 mm) with a length of 120 mm. The method uses a steel die with cavities to achieve wrinkled tubes by a forming process. This numerical study was carried out using the Ansys® 2022 R2 software. A nonlinear material and an incremental structural analysis were used. The applied methodology allowed the optimisation of process parameters, the application of forces during tube deformation, the geometry of the die cavity, boundary conditions, and mesh discretisation. Numerical modelling was carried out using the axial symmetry of the assembly (tube–die), enabling a simplified and efficient execution of the final tube geometry. The results were analysed based on the maximum pressure applied to the tube, and the vertical and horizontal displacements of the deformed component, thus obtaining the tube flow with complete filling inside the die cavity at the end of deformation. The die geometry that produced the best results presented a cavity with a radius of curvature of 3 mm, 6 mm in height, and with a depth of 4 mm. The optimised result of the die geometry generated satisfactory results, with the displacement on the x-axis of the tube of approximately 2.85 mm, ensuring the filling of the cavity at the end of the process. For this, the maximum pressure exerted on the tube was approximately 374 MPa. Full article
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18 pages, 2224 KiB  
Communication
Distribution of the p66Shc Adaptor Protein Among Mitochondrial and Mitochondria—Associated Membranes Fractions in Normal and Oxidative Stress Conditions
by Magdalena Lebiedzinska-Arciszewska, Barbara Pakula, Massimo Bonora, Sonia Missiroli, Yaiza Potes, Patrycja Jakubek-Olszewska, Ines C. M. Simoes, Paolo Pinton and Mariusz R. Wieckowski
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 12835; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252312835 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
p66Shc is an adaptor protein and one of the cellular fate regulators since it modulates mitogenic signaling pathways, mitochondrial function, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. p66Shc is localized mostly in the cytosol and endoplasmic reticulum (ER); however, under oxidative stress, p66Shc is [...] Read more.
p66Shc is an adaptor protein and one of the cellular fate regulators since it modulates mitogenic signaling pathways, mitochondrial function, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. p66Shc is localized mostly in the cytosol and endoplasmic reticulum (ER); however, under oxidative stress, p66Shc is post-translationally modified and relocates to mitochondria. p66Shc was found in the intermembrane space, where it interacts with cytochrome c, contributing to the hydrogen peroxide generation by the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Our previous studies suggested that p66Shc is localized also in mitochondria-associated membranes (MAM). MAM fraction consists of mitochondria and mostly ER membranes. Contact sites between ER and mitochondria host proteins involved in multiple processes including calcium homeostasis, apoptosis, and autophagy regulation. Thus, p66Shc in MAM could participate in processes related to cell fate determination. Due to reports on various and conditional p66Shc intracellular localization, in the present paper, we describe the allocation of p66Shc pools in different subcellular compartments in mouse liver tissue and HepG2 cell culture. We provide additional evidence for p66Shc localization in MAM. In the present study, we use precisely purified subcellular fraction isolated by differential centrifugation-based protocol from control mouse liver tissue and HepG2 cells and from cells treated with hydrogen peroxide to promote mitochondrial p66Shc translocation. We performed controlled digestion of crude mitochondrial fraction, in which the degradation patterns of p66Shc and MAM fraction marker proteins were comparable. Moreover, we assessed the distribution of the individual ShcA isoforms (p46Shc, p52Shc, and p66Shc) in the subcellular fractions and their contribution to the total ShcA in control mice livers and HepG2 cells. In conclusion, we showed that a substantial pool of p66Shc protein resides in MAM in control conditions and after oxidative stress induction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mitochondrial Biology and Reactive Oxygen Species)
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17 pages, 17370 KiB  
Article
The Characteristics, Sources, and Health Risks of Volatile Organic Compounds in an Industrial Area of Nanjing
by Tao Tan, Xinyuan Xu, Haixin Gu, Li Cao, Ting Liu, Yunjiang Zhang, Junfeng Wang, Mindong Chen, Haiwei Li and Xinlei Ge
Toxics 2024, 12(12), 868; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120868 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the chemical complexity and toxicity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from national petrochemical industrial parks and their effects on air quality in an industrial area of Nanjing, China. Field measurements were conducted from 1 December 2022, to 17 April [...] Read more.
This study investigates the chemical complexity and toxicity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from national petrochemical industrial parks and their effects on air quality in an industrial area of Nanjing, China. Field measurements were conducted from 1 December 2022, to 17 April 2023, focusing on VOC concentrations and speciations, diurnal variations, ozone formation potential (OFP), source identification, and associated health risks. The results revealed an average total VOC (TVOC) concentration of 15.9 ± 12.9 ppb and an average OFP of 90.1 ± 109.5 μg m−3. Alkanes constituted the largest fraction of VOCs, accounting for 44.1%, while alkenes emerged as the primary contributors to OFP, comprising 52.8%. TVOC concentrations peaked before dawn, a pattern attributed to early morning industrial activities and nighttime heavy vehicle operations. During periods classified as clean, when ozone levels were below 160 μg m−3, both TVOC (15.9 ± 12.9 ppb) and OFP (90.4 ± 110.0 μg m−3) concentrations were higher than those during polluted hours. The analysis identified the key sources of VOC emissions, including automobile exhaust, oil and gas evaporation, and industrial discharges, with additional potential pollution sources identified in adjacent regions. Health risk assessments indicated that acrolein exceeded the non-carcinogenic risk threshold at specific times. Moreover, trichloromethane, 1,3-butadiene, 1,2-dichloroethane, and benzene were found to surpass the acceptable lifetime carcinogenic risk level (1 × 10−6) during certain periods. These findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced monitoring and regulatory measures aimed at mitigating VOC emissions and protecting public health in industrial areas. In the context of complex air pollution in urban industrial areas, policymakers should focus on controlling industrial and vehicle emissions, which can not only reduce secondary pollution, but also inhibit the harm of toxic substances on human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Pollution and Health)
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16 pages, 2697 KiB  
Article
Effects of Different Non-Ionic Polysaccharides on the Heat-Induced Gelling Properties of Curdlan
by Guoyan Zhong, Zhaojun Wang, Qiuming Chen, Zhiyong He, Maomao Zeng, Fang Qin and Jie Chen
Polymers 2024, 16(23), 3345; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16233345 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Curdlan’s application is constrained by high gelation concentration, poor water solubility, and incompatibility with other polysaccharides. To address these limitations, this study investigated the effects of different concentrations (0.05–0.3%) of non-ionic polysaccharides (pullulan (PL), locust bean gum (LBG), guar gum (GG), and konjac [...] Read more.
Curdlan’s application is constrained by high gelation concentration, poor water solubility, and incompatibility with other polysaccharides. To address these limitations, this study investigated the effects of different concentrations (0.05–0.3%) of non-ionic polysaccharides (pullulan (PL), locust bean gum (LBG), guar gum (GG), and konjac gum (KGM)) on the heat-induced gelling properties of curdlan. PL with no branch showed 0.3% enhanced gel hardness. LBG with a small amount of galactose residue and KGM with an acetyl group had similar effects on hardness, while GG with a large amount of galactose residue slightly weakened the mixed gel. The rheological results showed that PL had little effect on curdlan, and LBG and KGM had a positive effect on curdlan unfolding, but 0.3% GG was significantly antagonistic to curdlan. The above results implied that non-ionic polysaccharides without side chains interacted weakly with the curdlan and hardly changed the properties of curdlan. Curdlan unfolding and stable suspension were favored if the structure contained galactose or acetyl side chains that interacted with curdlan through hydrogen bonding. These results suggested an effective way to modify curdlan by strengthening the interaction of curdlan with others and weakening the hydrogen bonding of curdlan to broaden its application in food colloids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biopolymers: Structure-Function Relationship and Application III)
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12 pages, 1754 KiB  
Article
Cembranoid Diterpenes from South China Sea Soft Coral Sarcophyton crassocaule
by Hanyang Peng, Yanbo Zeng, Rui Zhang, Li Yang, Fei Wu, Cuijuan Gai, Jingzhe Yuan, Wenjun Chang, Haofu Dai and Xiachang Wang
Mar. Drugs 2024, 22(12), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/md22120536 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Cembranoid diterpenes are characteristic compounds of soft corals with diverse structures and significant activities, making them an important source of drug lead compounds. In this paper, five new cembranoid diterpenes, meijicrassolins A–E (1–5), were isolated from the soft coral [...] Read more.
Cembranoid diterpenes are characteristic compounds of soft corals with diverse structures and significant activities, making them an important source of drug lead compounds. In this paper, five new cembranoid diterpenes, meijicrassolins A–E (1–5), were isolated from the soft coral Sarcophyton crassocaule, along with five previously reported compounds (6–10). The structures and absolute configuration for new compounds 1–5 were assigned by extensive spectroscopic analysis, single-crystal X-ray crystallography, quantum mechanical nuclear magnetic resonance (QM-NMR), and time-dependent density functional theory/electronic circular dichroism (TDDFT/ECD) calculations. Compounds 3, 4, and 9 showed moderate inhibition of nitric oxide generation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Overall, our research results have enriched the library of secondary metabolites from soft corals, providing more molecular entities for subsequent research and development of related compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds from Soft Corals and Their Derived Microorganisms)
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12 pages, 1710 KiB  
Article
Dominant Species Composition, Environmental Characteristics and Dynamics of Forests with Picea jezoensis Trees in Northeast China
by Jichen Duan, Zhiyuan Jia, Shusen Ge, Yutang Li, Dongwei Kang and Junqing Li
Diversity 2024, 16(12), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16120731 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
To describe the characteristics and dynamics of the Picea jezoensis (PJ) community, a survey of 48 forest plots containing PJ trees was conducted in Northeast China. Methods of community grouping, analysis of variance, and linear regression, and indicators of relative basal area (RBA, [...] Read more.
To describe the characteristics and dynamics of the Picea jezoensis (PJ) community, a survey of 48 forest plots containing PJ trees was conducted in Northeast China. Methods of community grouping, analysis of variance, and linear regression, and indicators of relative basal area (RBA, reflecting the dominance degree of species in the community) and temporary stability (TS, reflecting the stability of forest plant community), were employed. The objectives were to describe the dominant species composition and environment of the PJ community and to quantify the changes in PJ’s dominance status. Communities with PJ trees were divided into four groups: PJ as the first dominant species; PJ as the second dominant species; PJ being co-dominant but ranked third or lower; and PJ as a non-dominant species. Among them, the PJ community (i.e., where PJ is the first dominant species) occupied sites at the highest elevation with a mean value of 1408 m, on gentle slopes ≤ 10°, where the tree species occurring with PJ mainly included Betula costata and Abies nephrolepis. A linear relationship was found between the TS and RBA. The threshold for PJ shifting between being the first and second dominant species in the community was RBA = 0.387. This study provides a scientific basis for judging the attributes and status of PJ community and the protection and restoration of PJ forests. These findings also provide comparable information for ecological research and conservation of PJ forests in other areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Succession and Vegetation Dynamics)
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18 pages, 11943 KiB  
Article
Friction Performance Analysis of WC-Reinforced IN718 Composite Material Based on SLM Process
by Xuejin Zhao, Xiaoyu Zhao, Youfan Xu and Yongjun Shi
Metals 2024, 14(12), 1361; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14121361 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
To enhance the wear resistance of nickel-based high-temperature alloys, IN718/WC composites were prepared via selective laser melting (SLM). The optimal molding process parameters of IN718/WC composites were determined using a combination of experimental and simulation methods. Based on the SEM images of the [...] Read more.
To enhance the wear resistance of nickel-based high-temperature alloys, IN718/WC composites were prepared via selective laser melting (SLM). The optimal molding process parameters of IN718/WC composites were determined using a combination of experimental and simulation methods. Based on the SEM images of the composites, a gradient transition layer was found to form between the WC particles and the IN718 matrix, and the γ′ and γ″ reinforcing phases dispersed into the matrix, providing lubrication and reducing wear during friction. The influence of WC content on the wear resistance of the composites was investigated. When the WC content was 5%, the molded parts showed optimal wear resistance, the friction coefficient fluctuated steadily, the degree of wear was low, and the amount of wear was reduced to 0.02973 mm3. The average friction coefficient and wear volume of the molded parts with similar contents decreased by 26.95% and 4.27%, respectively, compared with the pure IN718-molded parts. This study provides a case study and guidance for further optimization of the molding process for nickel matrix high-temperature composites prepared using the SLM method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Laser Additive Manufacturing of Metallic Materials)
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11 pages, 2507 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Starch Film Properties Using Bacterial Nanocellulose-Stabilized Pickering Emulsions
by Natália Tavares de Almeida, André Luís Sousa Pereira, Matheus de Oliveira Barros, Adriano Lincoln Albuquerque Mattos and Morsyleide de Freitas Rosa
Polymers 2024, 16(23), 3346; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16233346 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to address issues related to hydrophilicity, barrier properties, and mechanical performance in starch-based films by incorporating Pickering emulsions stabilized with nano-fibrillated bacterial cellulose (BC). Emulsions were added to the film-forming suspension at varying concentrations (1.0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, and 7.5% v [...] Read more.
This study aimed to address issues related to hydrophilicity, barrier properties, and mechanical performance in starch-based films by incorporating Pickering emulsions stabilized with nano-fibrillated bacterial cellulose (BC). Emulsions were added to the film-forming suspension at varying concentrations (1.0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, and 7.5% v/v) for comparison. The films were evaluated using water vapor permeability (WVP), contact angle, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and tensile tests. The results showed a significant reduction in film hydrophilicity, with the contact angle increasing from 49.7° ± 1.5 to 71.0° ± 1.4, and improved water vapor barrier properties, with WVP decreasing from 0.085 ± 0.04 to 0.016 ± 0.01 g·mm/h·m2·kPa. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of the emulsion into the starch matrix. Among the tested concentrations, 2.5% provided an optimal balance, increasing hydrophobicity while maintaining mechanical strength. These findings demonstrate that Pickering emulsions are an effective strategy for enhancing the functional properties of starch films. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers)
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15 pages, 5051 KiB  
Article
Chronological Dynamics of Neuroinflammatory Responses in a High-Fat Diet Mouse Model
by Heekyong R. Bae, Su-Kyung Shin, Ji-Yoon Lee, Seong-Su Choi and Eun-Young Kwon
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 12834; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252312834 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Obesity is known to affect various tissues and contribute to conditions such as neuroinflammation. However, the specific mechanisms and time-dependent progression of these effects across different tissues remain unclear. In this study, we monitored gene expression at intervals to examine the effects of [...] Read more.
Obesity is known to affect various tissues and contribute to conditions such as neuroinflammation. However, the specific mechanisms and time-dependent progression of these effects across different tissues remain unclear. In this study, we monitored gene expression at intervals to examine the effects of a high-fat diet (HFD) on brain, liver, adipose, and muscle tissues in male C57/BJ mice, with a particular focus on neuroinflammation. Early inflammatory responses exhibit a progression that starts in the liver, extends to adipose tissue, and subsequently involves muscle and brain tissues. Although the brain did not show significant gene expression of inflammatory responses, mechanisms leading to neuroinflammation increased after 24 weeks, possibly through systemic chronic inflammation (SCI). Notably, mitochondrial complex I activity serves as a biomarker to indicate the inflammatory transition from the liver to adipose and other tissues caused by SCI. These similar gene expression dynamics were also observed in the hippocampus of Alzheimer’s patients and in an Alzheimer’s mouse model treated with a HFD. These results suggest that initially, the brain suppresses inflammatory responses, including interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), more than other tissues in response to a HFD. However, at the onset of SCI, the brain eventually exhibits inflammatory dynamics similar to those of other tissues. This underscores the significance of our findings, indicating that the early kinetics of chronic IFN-γ response and mitochondrial complex I activity inhibition serve as crucial biomarkers, emerging early in various conditions, including obesity and aging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanism in the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Neurodegenerative Diseases)
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18 pages, 11416 KiB  
Article
Monitoring Agitation Intensity in Fluidized Beds Containing Inert Particles via Acoustic Emissions and Neural Networks
by Willian Velloso Metzner and Gustavo Cesar Dacanal
Processes 2024, 12(12), 2691; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12122691 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
This study utilized passive acoustic emissions from a fluidized bed containing spherical inert ABS particles, captured by an external piezoelectric microphone, to monitor fluidization agitation intensity. Acoustic signals were recorded during fluidization profiles achieved under air velocities ranging from 0.5 to 3.0 m/s [...] Read more.
This study utilized passive acoustic emissions from a fluidized bed containing spherical inert ABS particles, captured by an external piezoelectric microphone, to monitor fluidization agitation intensity. Acoustic signals were recorded during fluidization profiles achieved under air velocities ranging from 0.5 to 3.0 m/s and during the drying of water or maltodextrin aqueous solution (1:5 w/w) introduced as droplets. Analyzing audio features like waveforms, the Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT), and Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCCs) revealed changes corresponding to the agitation intensity of the particles. The MFCC coefficients were input into a three-layer artificial neural network (ANN) to predict fluidization dynamics based on air velocity, liquid flow rate, and drying time. The ANN efficiently learned from the data, achieving high predictive accuracy (R2 > 0.8) after 15 epochs of training, showcasing the robustness of MFCC coefficients for modeling. This approach highlights that the application of passive acoustic signals and neural networks allows for real-time monitoring of fluidization behavior during drying processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drying Kinetics and Quality Control in Food Processing, 2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 6506 KiB  
Article
Performance and Reliability of Thermoelectric Conversion Using a Crooked Thermosyphon to Enhance Heat Transfer from Coal Fires
by Qingfeng Bao, Xiuting Guo, Bo Li, Wuyi Chen, Zhenping Wang and Yang Xiao
Processes 2024, 12(12), 2692; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12122692 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
A large amount of energy can accumulate and be stored during underground coal fires. As thermal energy cannot be easily removed using the traditional technologies of fire prevention and extinguishment, there is a potential benefit to collecting and utilizing thermal energy from coal [...] Read more.
A large amount of energy can accumulate and be stored during underground coal fires. As thermal energy cannot be easily removed using the traditional technologies of fire prevention and extinguishment, there is a potential benefit to collecting and utilizing thermal energy from coal fires and converting it to electrical energy. Thus, this work proposes a thermoelectric generator as a solution to convert thermal energy from coal fires to electrical energy. To improve the thermal energy conversion efficiency, an experimental test system was established using a thermosyphon, an electric heating module, a cooling circulation module, a thermoelectric module, and a data acquisition module. Under the condition of ensuring the same input heat and cooling boundary conditions, the influence of three factors, namely the cooling method, the connection method, and the coverage rate of thermoelectric devices, on the performance of the coal fire waste heat conversion system was studied. The results show that, compared with air cooling, water cooling provides a greater temperature difference for the thermoelectric module, and the maximum temperature difference can reach 65.90 °C. Series connection between thermoelectric devices will generate a higher open-circuit voltage and output voltage. The maximum horizontal open-circuit voltage value can reach 3.34 V, and the maximum output voltage is 2.61 V. Compared with the coverage rates of thermoelectric devices of 15.0% and 30.0%, the output power under the coverage rate of 22.5% is the largest at 0.35 W, and its thermoelectric conversion efficiency is also the largest at 0.35%. The optimal combination of thermoelectric modules obtained from the research results can provide ideas for the application of in situ coal fire prevention and control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Coal Processing, Utilization, and Process Safety)
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9 pages, 217 KiB  
Article
Gingivitis and Its Causes in Children Aged 3–7 Years
by Dorota Olczak-Kowalczyk, Anna Turska-Szybka, Marcin Studnicki and Paula Piekoszewska-Ziętek
Diagnostics 2024, 14(23), 2690; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14232690 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Objectives: Gingivitis manifests as redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gingiva but no loss of connective tissue attachment. It is usually painless and rarely leads to spontaneous bleeding, and most patients are unaware of the disease or are unable to recognize it. In [...] Read more.
Objectives: Gingivitis manifests as redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gingiva but no loss of connective tissue attachment. It is usually painless and rarely leads to spontaneous bleeding, and most patients are unaware of the disease or are unable to recognize it. In children and adolescents, it is most often caused by plaque accumulation. The purpose of the following study was to determine the prevalence of gingivitis and its causes in children aged 3 to 7 years. Methods: Patients were classed in the following three age groups: 3-year-olds, 5-year-olds, and 7-year-olds, who were generally healthy, not taking permanent medication, and without developmental defects of dentition were eligible for the study. A questionnaire survey assessed socioeconomic factors, frequency of dental visits, and hygiene and dietary habits. The clinical examination assessed the condition of the teeth based on dmft/DMFT, and the presence of gingivitis was based on the bleeding on probing. The obtained results were subjected to statistical analysis. Results: A total of 3558 patients were examined. Gingivitis was present in 436 (12.25%) of the patients. In the group of 3-year-olds, gingivitis was significantly more common in boys (p = 0.0024). There were significant positive correlations between gingivitis and the average number of teeth affected by caries for the male gender in the group of 5- and 7-year-olds and in all age groups with dmft/DMFT > 0 values and the occurrence of symptomatic visits. Conclusions: The prevalence of gingivitis in children aged 3–7 years is influenced by socioeconomic, oral hygiene, and diet-related factors. Poor dental health predisposes to the occurrence of gingivitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges Related to the Oral Cavity, Head and Neck: From Diagnosis to Therapy)
17 pages, 7803 KiB  
Article
Effect of Adding Gold Nanoparticles on the Anti-Candidal Activity and Release Profile of Itraconazole from Hydrogels
by Radosław Balwierz, Paweł Biernat, Dawid Bursy, Mariia Shanaida, Katarzyna Kasperkiewicz, Agata Jasińska-Balwierz and Wioletta Ochędzan-Siodłak
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(23), 11125; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142311125 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Gold nanoparticles have been identified as a promising avenue for the development of drug carriers, particularly in the context of antimicrobial drug delivery, where limited solubility represents a significant challenge. The ability of gold nanoparticles to penetrate biofilms and disrupt fungal cell membranes [...] Read more.
Gold nanoparticles have been identified as a promising avenue for the development of drug carriers, particularly in the context of antimicrobial drug delivery, where limited solubility represents a significant challenge. The ability of gold nanoparticles to penetrate biofilms and disrupt fungal cell membranes makes them an effective tool to support antifungal therapy, especially against resistant strains. Gold nanoparticles also demonstrate synergistic effects with chemotherapeutics and can influence the release profile of the active substances. This study aimed to develop a topical hydrogel drug formulation containing itraconazole (ITZ), with the addition of gold nanoparticles, to enhance its therapeutic properties. Due to ITZ’s poor water solubility, three types of the gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) of different sizes were synthesized and subsequently coated with itraconazole. The resulting formulations were incorporated into carbopol gels and their ability to diffuse through semipermeable membranes was assessed. The findings demonstrated that the combination of gold nanoparticles and itraconazole elevated the diffusion coefficient to twice the level observed in gels without nanoparticles. Furthermore, the combined effect of gold nanoparticles and itraconazole against a reference Candida albicans strain was investigated. The combination of gold nanoparticles and itraconazole demonstrated a growth-inhibitory effect on this strain, indicating that this formulation could potentially be employed in the treatment of fungal infections. The study confirms that hydrogels with itraconazole and gold nanoparticles can be obtained, offering enhanced drug diffusion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials in Medical Diagnosis and Therapy)
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9 pages, 3733 KiB  
Communication
Alkamide Content and Localization in Heliopsis longipes Cypselae, Obtained via Fluorescence and Double-Multiphoton Microscopy
by Juan Vázquez-Martínez and Jorge Molina-Torres
Molecules 2024, 29(23), 5651; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29235651 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
The alkamide content and specific tissue localization in the cypselae of Heliopsis longipes were investigated using gas chromatography–electron ionization mass spectrometry (GC-EIMS) and multiphoton fluorescence microscopy (MPFM). GC-EIMS analysis identified two olefinic alkamides: affinin (spilanthol) and N-2-methylbutyl-2E,6Z,8E [...] Read more.
The alkamide content and specific tissue localization in the cypselae of Heliopsis longipes were investigated using gas chromatography–electron ionization mass spectrometry (GC-EIMS) and multiphoton fluorescence microscopy (MPFM). GC-EIMS analysis identified two olefinic alkamides: affinin (spilanthol) and N-2-methylbutyl-2E,6Z,8E-decatrienamide. Microscopic analysis revealed that alkamides are localized within the cotyledons, and specifically compartmentalized in lipid bodies, highlighting their spatial organization. The linear unmixing of fluorescence emission fingerprints showed that affinin exhibits autofluorescence at 693 nm, corresponding to the red spectral region. This emission is attributed to the conjugated double bonds in its acyl chain. This study is the first to report on the presence and precise localization of alkamides in the cypselae of H. longipes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Analytical Methodologies in Detecting Bioactive Food and Plant Constituents)
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14 pages, 1066 KiB  
Article
Comparison of the Effects of Ultrasound-Guided Subacromial Injection Versus Subacromial Injection and Suprascapular Nerve Block on Pain, Function, and Sleep Quality in Rotator Cuff Lesions
by Mustafa Haciomeroglu, Suna Akin Takmaz, Azize Serce, Yilmaz Karaduman and Hulya Basar
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(23), 7258; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13237258 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Rotator cuff lesions are common causes of shoulder pain. When not treated effectively, the functional loss associated with pain affects the quality of life and brings about psychosocial issues. In this study, prospective observational comparison of the effects of ultrasonography (USG) guided [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Rotator cuff lesions are common causes of shoulder pain. When not treated effectively, the functional loss associated with pain affects the quality of life and brings about psychosocial issues. In this study, prospective observational comparison of the effects of ultrasonography (USG) guided subacromial injection (SAI) versus subacromial injection combined with suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) on pain, functionality and sleep quality in the treatment of shoulder pain unresponsive to conservative treatments due to rotator cuff lesions is made. Methods: The data of 25 patients in both groups were compared prospectively. Patients were evaluated after 30 min, 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months. Pain levels were measured with VAS, shoulder functions with SPADI and sleep quality with PSQI. Analgesic consumption and satisfaction were also recorded. Results: Both treatment groups effectively reduced pain at rest over the 3-month follow-up period. However, the SAI group did not achieve the targeted level of analgesia for pain control during movement. In comparison, the SAI + SSNB group demonstrated significantly superior outcomes, with lower VAS scores both at rest and during motion, as well as improved SPADI and PSQI scores. Additionally, analgesic consumption was significantly reduced in the SAI + SSNB group. No side effects or complications were observed during the treatment applications or the follow-up period. Conclusions: Pain control, shoulder functionality, sleep quality, and patient satisfaction were found to be higher in patients treated with SAI + SSNB in the short-to-medium term in the treatment of shoulder pain due to rotator cuff lesions, in addition to lower analgesic consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Chronic Pain)
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12 pages, 276 KiB  
Article
Redemption unto Life: Kierkegaardian Anthropology and the Relation Between Justification and Sanctification
by Michael Nathan Steinmetz
Religions 2024, 15(12), 1455; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121455 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
The Protestant Reformation’s insistence on forensic justification developed the distinct concepts of justification and sanctification. The alien righteousness of Christ is all that is needed to justify the sinner rather than the co-operating of good works as proclaimed by The Roman Catholic Church [...] Read more.
The Protestant Reformation’s insistence on forensic justification developed the distinct concepts of justification and sanctification. The alien righteousness of Christ is all that is needed to justify the sinner rather than the co-operating of good works as proclaimed by The Roman Catholic Church at The Council of Trent. The justification/sanctification spilt leads to a practical problem among Protestants: what is the purpose of good works if the believer is already justified? In this paper, I argue Søren Kierkegaard’s theological anthropology aids us with the bifurcation of justification and sanctification. I start with examining the components of Kierkegaardian anthropology, showing the dynamic nature of humans as beings in process. All humans have a spirit which pushes them to actualize themselves. Second, I describe Kierkegaard’s view of humans as a negative unity, living outside of faith in the life of sin. Third, I explain humans as a positive unity—those who have posited faith. Lastly, I demonstrate how Kierkegaard’s anthropology shows that all humans will do something with their existence. The sinner sins, while the justified does good deeds. Kierkegaardian anthropology shows that sanctification is a necessary result of justification, not a necessary cause of justification. Full article
16 pages, 5429 KiB  
Article
Effects of Water and Nitrogen Regulation on Soil Environment and Crop Growth in a Lycium barbarum||Alfalfa System
by Yanlin Ma, Wenjing Yu, Wenjing Chang, Yayu Wang, Minhua Yin, Yanxia Kang, Guangping Qi, Jinghai Wang, Yuping Zhao and Jinwen Wang
Plants 2024, 13(23), 3348; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13233348 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
The increasing scarcity of water and soil resources, combined with inefficient water and fertilizer management, poses significant challenges to agriculture in arid regions. This study aimed to determine an optimal water and nitrogen regulation model to alleviate water shortages and improve agricultural productivity [...] Read more.
The increasing scarcity of water and soil resources, combined with inefficient water and fertilizer management, poses significant challenges to agriculture in arid regions. This study aimed to determine an optimal water and nitrogen regulation model to alleviate water shortages and improve agricultural productivity and quality. In this study, a two-year experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of varying irrigation and nitrogen levels on the soil environment and crop growth in a Lycium barbarum||alfalfa system (LB||AS). The experiment involved four moisture gradients and four nitrogen application levels (using urea as the nitrogen source). The results indicated that soil moisture decreased during crop development, followed by a slow increase, with significant variation across soil depths. Soil temperature peaked during the fruiting stage of Lycium barbarum in July, decreasing significantly with soil depth. Higher temperatures were recorded in N0 under the same irrigation level and in W3 under the same nitrogen level. Soil organic carbon (SOC) levels increased by 16.24% in W3N0 and by 18.05% in W2N1, compared to W0N3. Easily oxidizable organic carbon (EOC) and soluble organic carbon (DOC) levels exhibited significant variations depending on irrigation and nitrogen treatments. Irrigation and nitrogen had a stronger individual impact on alfalfa height and stem thickness than their combined effects. Water and nitrogen regulation significantly influenced Lycium barbarum yield, its 100-fruit weight, and economic efficiency (p < 0.05). The W0N2 treatment produced the highest yield (3238 kg·ha−1), exceeding other treatments by up to 29.52%. In conclusion, the optimal water–nitrogen regulation model for the LB||AS system is full irrigation (75–85% θfc) with a nitrogen application rate of 300 kg·ha−1. These findings offer critical insights for improving water and nitrogen management strategies in arid regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop and Soil Management for Sustainable Agriculture)
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13 pages, 198 KiB  
Article
A Festival of Chariots: How Music and the Arts Take the Hindu Temple Experience to the Streets
by Sara Black Brown
Religions 2024, 15(12), 1456; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121456 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Among the most prominent Hindu festivals is the Rath Yatra, or Festival of Chariots, which is celebrated by parading three brightly decorated chariots containing statues of the deities Jagganath, Subhadra, and Balaram through the streets of a city on brilliantly decorated chariots. Rath [...] Read more.
Among the most prominent Hindu festivals is the Rath Yatra, or Festival of Chariots, which is celebrated by parading three brightly decorated chariots containing statues of the deities Jagganath, Subhadra, and Balaram through the streets of a city on brilliantly decorated chariots. Rath Yatra is celebrated throughout India and increasingly throughout the world through such efforts as the Festival of India sponsored by the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), which stops in several prominent locations throughout North America. Within Krishna Consciousness, temple worship is an aesthetically vivid sensory experience in which the various art forms—music, dance, theater, and the visual arts—serve to attach the devotee’s senses to the Divine through worship practices, including darshan—the exchange of gazes, kirtan—the singing of sacred mantras, and lila—the re-creation of the pastimes of divine characters. The festival experience—and the Festival of Chariots in particular—can serve to bring the practices typically associated with temple worship to the public. This article draws on several Rath Yatra events, giving special attention to the annual Rath Yatra parade held in New York City, where devotees parade their deities down Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue, and that held in Los Angeles on Venice Beach. These prominent American Rath Yatras serve as a study of the spiritual necessity of beauty and the spiritual necessity of joy, which are both addressed by the festival experience, as music and vivid visual imagery serve to transform urban space into sacred space by allowing bypassers as well as devotees to come into sensory contact with sacred imagery and sacred sound. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sacred Experience and Aesthetic Connections in Religious Festivals)
16 pages, 5996 KiB  
Article
A Compact and High-Power Rectenna Array for Wireless Power Transmission Applications
by Dajiu Huang, Jincheng Li, Ziqiang Du, Changjun Liu, Zhongqi He and Ji Zhang
Energies 2024, 17(23), 6008; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17236008 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
Microwave wireless power transmission (MWPT) applications have attracted worldwide interest and attention in recent years. Rectennas are a crucial component of a MWPT system. The rectenna’s power capacity and output DC power have great significance with regard to the MWPT system’s performance. In [...] Read more.
Microwave wireless power transmission (MWPT) applications have attracted worldwide interest and attention in recent years. Rectennas are a crucial component of a MWPT system. The rectenna’s power capacity and output DC power have great significance with regard to the MWPT system’s performance. In this article, a compact 4 × 4 S-band rectangular patch rectenna array for MWPT is proposed and experimentally verified. Firstly, an S-band rectifier with better consistency and lower cost than a traditional output design using parallel capacitors as a filter is achieved. Then, a rectenna array based on the proposed rectifier and a novel design idea is proposed. The rectenna can achieve an output DC power of 117.6 mW/cm3 and an efficiency of 47.6%. Finally, a MWPT verification experiment is conducted. A 12-inch LCD screen powered by the rectenna with a rated power of 12 W successfully works without any other power supply. This article provides a new design of a rectenna for MWPT, and the proposed rectenna array demonstrates its good engineering significance and application prospects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section F3: Power Electronics)
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24 pages, 1058 KiB  
Article
Evolving Microcredential Strategies for Enhancing Employability: Employer and Student Perspectives
by Mamdouh Alenezi, Mohammed Akour and Layla Alfawzan
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1307; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14121307 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024
Abstract
In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting workforce demands, higher education institutions must continuously evolve to foster lifelong learning and career adaptability. This paper presents an updated framework for integrating microcredentials—such as digital badges, certificates, and other forms of recognition—into [...] Read more.
In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting workforce demands, higher education institutions must continuously evolve to foster lifelong learning and career adaptability. This paper presents an updated framework for integrating microcredentials—such as digital badges, certificates, and other forms of recognition—into traditional academic programs. By acknowledging and validating specific skills and competencies, microcredentials can enhance student motivation, engagement, and employability in an increasingly dynamic job market. The updated framework emphasizes a more integrated, personalized, and agile approach to learning, addressing emerging challenges in assessment, quality assurance, and institutional adaptation. Moreover, this study investigates the perspectives of employers and students regarding the value and effectiveness of microcredentials. It explores how employers perceive microcredentials as valuable tools for skill verification and hiring decisions, while students view them as critical for enhancing their employability and advancing their careers. This paper examines recent advancements in microcredentialing, discusses the evolving landscape of lifelong learning, and offers insights into how these innovations can bridge the gap between formal education and professional practice. With strategic implementation, microcredentials can significantly contribute to a more responsive and effective higher education system, preparing students for success in a continually changing environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Trends for Modern Higher Education)
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