Advancing Open Science
for more than 25 years
Supporting academic communities
since 1996
 
23 pages, 537 KiB  
Review
HER2-Positive Gastric Cancer and Antibody Treatment: State of the Art and Future Developments
by Magdalena K. Scheck, Ralf D. Hofheinz and Sylvie Lorenzen
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1336; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071336 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Despite a decreasing incidence in Western countries, gastric cancer is among the most common cancer subtypes globally and is associated with one of the highest tumor-related mortality rates. Biomarkers play an increasing role in the treatment against gastric cancer. HER2 was one of [...] Read more.
Despite a decreasing incidence in Western countries, gastric cancer is among the most common cancer subtypes globally and is associated with one of the highest tumor-related mortality rates. Biomarkers play an increasing role in the treatment against gastric cancer. HER2 was one of the first biomarkers that found its way into clinical practice. Since the ToGA trial, trastuzumab has been part of first-line palliative chemotherapy in metastatic or unresectable gastric cancer. HER2-targeting agents, such as the tyrosine kinase inhibitor lapatinib, the antibody drug conjugate (ADC) trastuzumab-emtansine or dual HER2 inhibition (pertuzumab and trastuzumab), have been investigated in the second-line setting but led to negative study results. More recently, the ADC trastuzumab-deruxtecan was authorized after the failure of trastuzumab-based treatment. However, further improvements in HER2-directed therapy are required as resistance mechanisms and HER2 heterogeneity limit the existing treatment options. This review aims to give an overview of the current standard-of-care HER2-directed therapy in gastric cancer, as well as its challenges and future developments. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">
8 pages, 378 KiB  
Brief Report
The Clinical Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
by Danish Saleh, Zhiying Meng, Nicholas Johnson, Abigail Baldridge, Allison R. Zielinski and Lubna Choudhury
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(4), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11040104 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: This study aims to understand and describe the clinical impact of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection in patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). Methods: A data repository of over 6.6 million patients in a large metropolitan (Chicago IL) healthcare system was queried to identify adults [...] Read more.
Background: This study aims to understand and describe the clinical impact of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection in patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). Methods: A data repository of over 6.6 million patients in a large metropolitan (Chicago IL) healthcare system was queried to identify adults with a history of HCM and COVID-19 infection between 2019 and 2021. Propensity score-matched analysis was performed based on age, sex, BMI, and elements of the cardiovascular history, including tobacco use, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, myocardial injury, and heart failure. Results: Individuals with HCM and COVID-19 infection had more total hospitalizations (41.6 v 23 per 100 persons, p < 0.01), more heart-failure-related hospitalizations (24.2 v 8.7 per 100-persons, p < 0.01), more non-ST elevation myocardial injury (NSTEMI) hospitalizations (8.6 v 4.6 per 100-persons, p < 0.01), and increased mortality (10.8 v 5 per 100-persons, p < 0.01) compared to HCM patients without a history of COVID-19 infection. Patients with HCM and COVID-19 were also noted to have a higher peak CRP when compared to those without prior COVID-19 (Inter-quartile range of 9.0–106.9 v 1.8–21.3, p < 0.01). Conclusions: In patients with HCM, COVID-19 infection is associated with increased incidence of myocardial injury, increased number of total and heart-failure specific hospitalizations, and increased mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Management)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">
15 pages, 911 KiB  
Article
A New and Lightweight R-Peak Detector Using the TEDA Evolving Algorithm
by Lucileide M. D. da Silva, Sérgio N. Silva, Luísa C. de Souza, Karolayne S. de Azevedo, Luiz Affonso Guedes and Marcelo A. C. Fernandes
Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2024, 6(2), 736-750; https://doi.org/10.3390/make6020034 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The literature on ECG delineation algorithms has seen significant growth in recent decades. However, several challenges still need to be addressed. This work aims to propose a lightweight R-peak-detection algorithm that does not require pre-setting and performs classification on a sample-by-sample basis. The [...] Read more.
The literature on ECG delineation algorithms has seen significant growth in recent decades. However, several challenges still need to be addressed. This work aims to propose a lightweight R-peak-detection algorithm that does not require pre-setting and performs classification on a sample-by-sample basis. The novelty of the proposed approach lies in the utilization of the typicality eccentricity detection anomaly (TEDA) algorithm for R-peak detection. The proposed method for R-peak detection consists of three phases. Firstly, the ECG signal is preprocessed by calculating the signal’s slope and applying filtering techniques. Next, the preprocessed signal is inputted into the TEDA algorithm for R-peak estimation. Finally, in the third and last step, the R-peak identification is carried out. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed technique, experiments were conducted on the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database (MIT-AD) for R-peak detection and validation. The results of the study demonstrated that the proposed evolutive algorithm achieved a sensitivity (Se in %), positive predictivity (+P in %), and accuracy (ACC in %) of 95.45%, 99.61%, and 95.09%, respectively, with a tolerance (TOL) of 100 milliseconds. One key advantage of the proposed technique is its low computational complexity, as it is based on a statistical framework calculated recursively. It employs the concepts of typicity and eccentricity to determine whether a given sample is normal or abnormal within the dataset. Unlike most traditional methods, it does not require signal buffering or windowing. Furthermore, the proposed technique employs simple decision rules rather than heuristic approaches, further contributing to its computational efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Bioinformatics and Intelligent Information Processing)
Show Figures

Figure 1

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

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
13 pages, 30277 KiB  
Article
Structural Evolution and Fracture Mechanism of WC-Particle-Reinforced FeCoCrNiMn High-Entropy Alloy Coatings
by Xinbo Wang, Shihan Zhang, Fei Zhao, Zhisheng Wu and Zhiwen Xie
Coatings 2024, 14(4), 403; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14040403 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
A hard-particle-reinforced high-entropy alloy (HEA) coating shows significant potential for tribological applications, but relatively little work on the fracture mechanism of the coating has been reported. In this work, the FeCoCrNiMn HEA coatings, doped with varying contents of WC, were fabricated using a [...] Read more.
A hard-particle-reinforced high-entropy alloy (HEA) coating shows significant potential for tribological applications, but relatively little work on the fracture mechanism of the coating has been reported. In this work, the FeCoCrNiMn HEA coatings, doped with varying contents of WC, were fabricated using a plasma surfacing technique. The structure, mechanical properties, and fracture behaviors of these coatings were investigated through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and hardness and tensile tests. The addition of WC particles significantly altered the growth mode of the coating texture from large coarse grains to fine grains. The coating without WC doping had a hardness of 198.8 ± 15.6 HV, a yield strength of 225 MPa, a tensile strength of 478 MPa, and a strain of 53.7%. The hardness, yield strength, tensile strength, and strain were 222.3 ± 34.4 HV, 353 MPa, 704 MPa, and 42.6% for the coating with 10% WC doping and 355.6 ± 51.6 HV, 454 MPa, 627 MPa, and 9.4% for the coating with 20% WC doping. Meanwhile, the coating with 40% WC doping showed the greatest hardness of 514.9 ± 48.1 HV and had the highest yield strength of 457 MPa, but its tensile strength and strain decreased to 517 MPa and 2.7%, respectively. In this article, the detailed structural evolution, strengthening, and fracture failure mechanisms of the coatings are discussed systematically. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Surface Characterization, Deposition and Modification)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
24 pages, 8882 KiB  
Article
Short-Term Power-Generation Prediction of High Humidity Island Photovoltaic Power Station Based on a Deep Hybrid Model
by Jiahui Wang, Mingsheng Jia, Shishi Li, Kang Chen, Cheng Zhang, Xiuyu Song and Qianxi Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2853; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072853 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Precise prediction of the power generation of photovoltaic (PV) stations on the island contributes to efficiently utilizing and developing abundant solar energy resources along the coast. In this work, a hybrid short-term prediction model (ICMIC-POA-CNN-BIGRU) was proposed to study the output of a [...] Read more.
Precise prediction of the power generation of photovoltaic (PV) stations on the island contributes to efficiently utilizing and developing abundant solar energy resources along the coast. In this work, a hybrid short-term prediction model (ICMIC-POA-CNN-BIGRU) was proposed to study the output of a fishing–solar complementary PV station with high humidity on the island. ICMIC chaotic mapping was used to optimize the initial position of the pelican optimization algorithm (POA) population, enhancing the global search ability. Then, ICMIC-POA performed hyperparameter debugging and L2-regularization coefficient optimization on CNN-BIGRU (convolutional neural network and bidirectional gated recurrent unit). The L2-regularization technique optimized the loss curve and over-fitting problem in the CNN-BIGRU training process. To compare the prediction effect with the other five models, three typical days (sunny, cloudy, and rainy) were selected to establish the model, and six evaluation indexes were used to evaluate the prediction performance. The results show that the model proposed in this work shows stronger robustness and generalization ability. K-fold cross-validation verified the prediction effects of three models established by different datasets for three consecutive days and five consecutive days. Compared with the CNN-BIGRU model, the RMSE values of the newly proposed model were reduced by 64.08%, 46.14%, 57.59%, 60.61%, and 34.04%, respectively, in sunny, cloudy, rainy, continuous prediction 3 days, and 5 days. The average value of the determination coefficient R2 of the 20 experiments was 0.98372 on sunny days, 0.97589 on cloudy days, and 0.98735 on rainy days. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
13 pages, 2035 KiB  
Review
How Hydrogen (H2) Can Support Food Security: From Farm to Fork
by Grace Russell, Alexander Nenov and John T. Hancock
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2877; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072877 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Molecular hydrogen (H2) is a low-molecular-weight, non-polar and electrochemically neutral substance that acts as an effective antioxidant and cytoprotective agent, with research into the effects of H2 incorporation into the food chain, at various stages, rapidly gaining momentum. H2 [...] Read more.
Molecular hydrogen (H2) is a low-molecular-weight, non-polar and electrochemically neutral substance that acts as an effective antioxidant and cytoprotective agent, with research into the effects of H2 incorporation into the food chain, at various stages, rapidly gaining momentum. H2 can be delivered throughout the food growth, production, delivery and storage systems in numerous ways, including as a gas, as hydrogen-rich water (HRW), or with hydrogen-donating food supplements such as calcium (Ca) or magnesium (Mg). In plants, H2 can be exploited as a seed-priming agent, during seed germination and planting, during the latter stages of plant development and reproduction, as a post-harvest treatment and as a food additive. Adding H2 during plant growth and developmental stages is noted to improve the yield and quality of plant produce, through modulating antioxidant pathways and stimulating tolerance to such environmental stress factors as drought stress, enhanced tolerance to herbicides (paraquat), and increased salinity and metal toxicity. The benefits of pre- and post-harvest application of H2 include reductions in natural senescence and microbial spoilage, which contribute to extending the shelf-life of animal products, fruits, grains and vegetables. This review collates empirical findings pertaining to the use of H2 in the agri-food industry and evaluates the potential impact of this emerging technology. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">
20 pages, 6460 KiB  
Article
Hydraulic Hybrid Cut-to-Length Forest Harvester—Evaluation of Effects on Productivity and Fuel Efficiency
by Kalle Einola and Aleksi Kivi
Actuators 2024, 13(4), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/act13040126 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
A cut-to-length (CTL) forest harvester is a purpose-built, hydraulically actuated mobile work machine used for felling, delimbing, and cross-cutting trees into dimensions and assortments. In such a machine, the diesel engine load is known to fluctuate greatly over the work cycle. To manage [...] Read more.
A cut-to-length (CTL) forest harvester is a purpose-built, hydraulically actuated mobile work machine used for felling, delimbing, and cross-cutting trees into dimensions and assortments. In such a machine, the diesel engine load is known to fluctuate greatly over the work cycle. To manage these changing power demands, a hydraulic hybrid system is implemented into a full-scale proof-of-concept machine to discover its functionality and to collect experimental results in real operating conditions. The hydraulic hybrid system installed on a CTL harvester machine was tuned to enable the collection of two actual datasets of timber harvesting, and data collection over a period of production use was carried out. In addition to updating the state-of-the-art research into heavy non-road mobile machinery regarding hybrid systems, this paper discusses the two tests carried out in actual production conditions with the studied hydraulic hybrid system. The adaptations and modifications to the studied and tested system since earlier papers are discussed—especially the improvements in the system dynamics and response as well as the control of the hybrid system. In conclusion, the tested system can be said to operate satisfactorily and shows clear advantages over the conventional system, even though it still has some limitations. The results show that the system has the potential to increase the productivity of the machine through the demonstrated higher peak power, as well as showing improvement in fuel efficiency under highly fluctuating loads, especially with heavy or large-volume tree stems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative and Intelligent Actuation for Heavy-Duty Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
11 pages, 4054 KiB  
Article
Whole Blood as a Sample Matrix in Homogeneous Time-Resolved Assay—Förster Resonance Energy Transfer-Based Antibody Detection
by Annika Lintala, Olli Vapalahti, Arttu Nousiainen, Anu Kantele and Jussi Hepojoki
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070720 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The protein-L-utilizing Förster resonance energy transfer (LFRET) assay enables mix-and-read antibody detection, as demonstrated for sera from patients with, e.g., severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Zika virus, and orthohantavirus infections. In this study, we compared paired serum and whole blood (WB) [...] Read more.
The protein-L-utilizing Förster resonance energy transfer (LFRET) assay enables mix-and-read antibody detection, as demonstrated for sera from patients with, e.g., severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Zika virus, and orthohantavirus infections. In this study, we compared paired serum and whole blood (WB) samples of COVID-19 patients and SARS-CoV-2 vaccine recipients. We found that LFRET also detects specific antibodies in WB samples. In 44 serum–WB pairs from patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, LFRET showed a strong correlation between the sample materials. By analyzing 89 additional WB samples, totaling 133 WB samples, we found that LFRET results were moderately correlated with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results for samples collected 2 to 14 months after receiving COVID-19 diagnosis. However, the correlation decreased for samples >14 months after receiving a diagnosis. When comparing the WB LFRET results to neutralizing antibody titers, a strong correlation emerged for samples collected 1 to 14 months after receiving a diagnosis. This study also highlights the versatility of LFRET in detecting antibodies directly from WB samples and suggests that it could be employed for rapidly assessing antibody responses to infectious agents or vaccines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Point-of-Care Diagnostics and Devices)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
12 pages, 788 KiB  
Article
Myelodysplastic Neoplasms (MDS) with Ring Sideroblasts or SF3B1 Mutations: The Improved Clinical Utility of World Health Organization and International Consensus Classification 2022 Definitions, a Single-Centre Retrospective Chart Review
by Shamim Mortuza, Benjamin Chin-Yee, Tyler E. James, Ian H. Chin-Yee, Benjamin D. Hedley, Jenny M. Ho, Lalit Saini, Alejandro Lazo-Langner, Laila Schenkel, Pratibha Bhai, Bekim Sadikovic, Jonathan Keow, Nikhil Sangle and Cyrus C. Hsia
Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(4), 1762-1773; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31040134 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) with ring sideroblasts (RS) are diagnosed via bone marrow aspiration in the presence of either (i) ≥15% RS or (ii) 5–14% RS and an SF3B1 mutation. In the MEDALIST trial and in an interim analysis of the COMMANDS trial, lower-risk [...] Read more.
Myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) with ring sideroblasts (RS) are diagnosed via bone marrow aspiration in the presence of either (i) ≥15% RS or (ii) 5–14% RS and an SF3B1 mutation. In the MEDALIST trial and in an interim analysis of the COMMANDS trial, lower-risk MDS-RS patients had decreased transfusion dependency with luspatercept treatment. A total of 6817 patients with suspected hematologic malignancies underwent molecular testing using a next-generation-sequencing-based genetic assay and 395 MDS patients, seen at our centre from 1 January 2018 to 31 May 2023, were reviewed. Of these, we identified 39 evaluable patients as having lower-risk MDS with SF3B1 mutations: there were 20 (51.3%) males and 19 (48.7%) females, with a median age of 77 years (range of 57 to 92). Nineteen (48.7%) patients had an isolated SF3B1 mutation with a mean variant allele frequency of 35.2% +/− 8.1%, ranging from 7.4% to 46.0%. There were 29 (74.4%) patients with ≥15% RS, 6 (15.4%) with 5 to 14% RS, one (2.6%) with 1% RS, and 3 (7.7%) with no RS. Our study suggests that a quarter of patients would be missed based on the morphologic criterion of only using RS greater than 15% and supports the revised 2022 definitions of the World Health Organization (WHO) and International Consensus Classification (ICC), which shift toward molecularly defined subtypes of MDS and appropriate testing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Molecular Pathology of Myelodysplastic Syndromes)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">
13 pages, 220 KiB  
Article
Addressing a Critical Voice in Clinical Practice: Experiences of Nursing Students, Teachers, and Supervisors—A Qualitative Study
by Ingrid Rachel Strand, Unni Knutstad, Anton Havnes and Mette Sagbakken
Nurs. Rep. 2024, 14(2), 788-800; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep14020061 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Aim: Our goal was to explore how power asymmetry manifests within the relationships between students, teachers, and supervisors, and how it influences students’ ability for critical reflection. Design: This study has an explorative qualitative design. Methods: Thirty in-depth interviews with nursing students (15), [...] Read more.
Aim: Our goal was to explore how power asymmetry manifests within the relationships between students, teachers, and supervisors, and how it influences students’ ability for critical reflection. Design: This study has an explorative qualitative design. Methods: Thirty in-depth interviews with nursing students (15), teachers (9), and supervisors (6) were conducted in addition to 16 observations of mid-term assessments during clinical practice. The analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Results: The students described being a student as a balancing act between humility, conforming to the supervisor’s expectations, and speaking their minds. The view expressed by the teachers and supervisors is that training for the nursing profession is closely linked to the students’ ability to act independently. Due to the supervisors’ hierarchical position, however, students are hesitant to voice any criticism regarding insufficient supervision or unsatisfactory performance of clinical tasks while at the same time being evaluated on their ability to critically reflect on their own and others’ clinical performance. This study was prospectively registered with the Norwegian Centre for Research Data on the 15th of August 2017 with the registration number 54821. Full article
11 pages, 1174 KiB  
Article
Metal and Pesticide Assessments of Imported and Locally Cultivated Rice (Oryza sativa) in Senegal
by Anna Ndiaye, Alassane Traore, Papa Sam Gueye, Zachary Senwo, Momar Ndiaye and Abdoulaye Diop
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2876; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072876 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Identifying heavy metal and pesticide contaminants is an essential step in assessing the health indicators of rice cultivation and consumption in Africa. Information on the contaminant levels of the imported and cultivated rice consumed in Senegal seems lacking. In this study, we assessed [...] Read more.
Identifying heavy metal and pesticide contaminants is an essential step in assessing the health indicators of rice cultivation and consumption in Africa. Information on the contaminant levels of the imported and cultivated rice consumed in Senegal seems lacking. In this study, we assessed heavy metals, pesticides, ash, and protein in rice using rice samples from India, Thailand, South America, Vietnam, and China. Arsenic, Pb, Cd, Ni, Cu, Mo, Co, Cr, and Al are usually found in the soils used for rice cultivation in northern Senegal. While the heavy metal levels measured in soils were above the threshold limit, only Pb, Cd, and Al were found in cultivated rice. In all the analyzed rice samples from each country, there were certain amounts of Pb, As Al, and Cd. The concentration ranges in the six countries were as follows: 0.635–1.165 mg kg−1 for Pb, 0.047–0.438 mg kg−1 for As, 2.22–95.54 mg kg−1 for Al, and 0.002–0.082 mg kg−1 for Cd. The protein content in cultivated rice in Senegal was 7.31 mg kg−1, while the average from the imported rice ranged between 6.42% and 7.32%. The humidity levels in imported rice ranged between 11.12% and 12.95%. The fat content for the rice from six countries ranged between 0.22% and 0.67%, and the ash content ranged between 0.23% and 0.48%. These results allowed for the determination of the carbohydrate concentration, which varied between 79.18% and 80.82%. Indeed, freshly harvested rice grains typically contain around 80% carbohydrates. We noticed the presence of pesticides in all rice samples. The levels of three pesticides (total Pyrethrin, Bensulfuron-methyl, Propanyl, and 2,4D) were found to be beyond their maximum residue limits (MRLs) from the Codex Alimentarius, whereas deltamethrin was found to be below its MRL. This study indicates the presence of heavy metals carcinogenic to humans (Al, As, Cd, and Pb). Additionally, this study reveals the presence of deltamethrin, which is classified as probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 1), and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, which is classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Science and Technology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">
15 pages, 2867 KiB  
Article
Determination of the Mass Fractions of the Heavy Metals in the Recycled Cellulose Pulp
by Mia Klemen?i?, Ivana Bolan?a Mirkovi?, Nenad Bolf and Marinko Marki?
Polymers 2024, 16(7), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16070934 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In the process of paper recycling, certain amounts of metals can be found in the cellulose suspension, the source of which is mainly printing inks. The paper industry often uses different technologies to reduce heavy metal emissions. The recycling of laminated packaging contributes [...] Read more.
In the process of paper recycling, certain amounts of metals can be found in the cellulose suspension, the source of which is mainly printing inks. The paper industry often uses different technologies to reduce heavy metal emissions. The recycling of laminated packaging contributes to the formation of sticky particles, which affects the concentration of heavy metals. This study aimed to determine the mass fraction of metals in the different phases of the deinking process to optimize the cellulose pulp’s quality and design healthy correct packaging products. In this research, the deinking flotation of laminated and non-laminated samples was carried out by the Ingede 11 method. As a result of the study, the mass fractions of metals in cellulose pulp were divided into four groups according to the mass fraction’s increasing value and the metals’ increasing electronegativity. The quantities of metals were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The separation of metals from cellulose pulp is influenced by the presence of adhesives and the electronegativity of the metal. The results of the study show that the recycling process removes certain heavy metals very well, which indicates the good recycling potential of pharmaceutical cardboard samples. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Preparation and Application of Cellulose)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
13 pages, 1638 KiB  
Article
Gold Nanoprobes for Detection of a Crucial EGFR Deletion for Early Diagnosis of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
by Maria Enea, Anupong Nuekaew, Ricardo Franco and Eulália Pereira
Biosensors 2024, 14(4), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14040162 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) exhibit improved optical and spectral properties compared to bulk materials, making them suitable for the detection of DNA, RNA, antigens, and antibodies. Here, we describe a simple, selective, and rapid non-cross linking detection assay, using approx. 35 nm spherical Au [...] Read more.
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) exhibit improved optical and spectral properties compared to bulk materials, making them suitable for the detection of DNA, RNA, antigens, and antibodies. Here, we describe a simple, selective, and rapid non-cross linking detection assay, using approx. 35 nm spherical Au nanoprobes, for a common mutation occurring in exon 19 of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), associated with non-small-cell lung cancer cells. AuNPs were synthesized based on the seed-mediated growth method and functionalized with a specific 16 bp thiolated oligonucleotide using a pH-assisted method. Both AuNPs and Au nanoprobes proved to be highly stable and monodisperse through ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and electrophoretic light scattering (ELS). Our results indicate a detection limit of 1.5 µg mL−1 using a 0.15 nmol dm−3 Au nanoprobe concentration. In conclusion, this work presents an effective possibility for a straightforward, fast, and inexpensive alternative for the detection of DNA sequences related to lung cancer, leading to a potential platform for early diagnosis of lung cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterial-Based Biosensing and Diagnosis)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
14 pages, 1854 KiB  
Article
Brewing Mainly from Stale Bread: A Pale Ale Case Study
by Pedro Coelho, Catarina Prista and Isabel Sousa
Beverages 2024, 10(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages10020023 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Contemporary environmental concerns have led to the prioritization of sustainable production and material circularity, no matter what the industrial field of activity. Bread waste is a major element of overall food waste since, worldwide, bread remains a widespread staple food. A considerable proportion [...] Read more.
Contemporary environmental concerns have led to the prioritization of sustainable production and material circularity, no matter what the industrial field of activity. Bread waste is a major element of overall food waste since, worldwide, bread remains a widespread staple food. A considerable proportion of bread consumption is of fresh, baked bread, consumed daily, generating substantial amounts of stale bread. Therefore, efforts to reintroduce this waste into the food value chain can make a significant contribution to reaching zero food waste, which is a major target in European countries. Possible ways to produce new raw materials through starch enzymatic hydrolysis include brewing, which is an activity in which incorporating stale bread is of great interest. Mashing parameters in brewing processing are the main focus of this study, primarily the time and temperature required to acquire optimal enzymatic activity for starch-efficient hydrolysis. Extending the mashing time to 290 min, within a temperature range of 45–75 °C, allowed us to replace 50% of the required malt with stale bread, thus obtaining a successful pale ale beer. The incorporation of stale bread in a 50:50 ratio did not affect the overall character of the beer, although the alcohol levels stood around 2% below a standard beer’s average level. Depending on the brewer’s final goal, this lighter kind of beer may be well-aligned with new consumer trends supporting more sustainable and lower-alcohol beverages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Malting, Brewing and Beer)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
12 pages, 3303 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of Large-Area Silicon Spherical Microlens Arrays by Thermal Reflow and ICP Etching
by Yu Wu, Xianshan Dong, Xuefang Wang, Junfeng Xiao, Quanquan Sun, Lifeng Shen, Jie Lan, Zhenfeng Shen, Jianfeng Xu and Yuqingyun Du
Micromachines 2024, 15(4), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15040460 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we proposed an efficient and high-precision process for fabricating large-area microlens arrays using thermal reflow combined with ICP etching. When the temperature rises above the glass transition temperature, the polymer cylinder will reflow into a smooth hemisphere due to the [...] Read more.
In this paper, we proposed an efficient and high-precision process for fabricating large-area microlens arrays using thermal reflow combined with ICP etching. When the temperature rises above the glass transition temperature, the polymer cylinder will reflow into a smooth hemisphere due to the surface tension effect. The dimensional differences generated after reflow can be corrected using etching selectivity in the following ICP etching process, which transfers the microstructure on the photoresist to the substrate. The volume variation before and after reflow, as well as the effect of etching selectivity using process parameters, such as RF power and gas flow, were explored. Due to the surface tension effect and the simultaneous molding of all microlens units, machining a 3.84 × 3.84 mm2 silicon microlens array required only 3 min of reflow and 15 min of ICP etching with an extremely low average surface roughness Sa of 1.2 nm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Manufacturing Technology and Systems, 3rd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
10 pages, 226 KiB  
Article
A Delphi Study on Identifying Competencies in Virtual Healthcare for Healthcare Professionals
by Ibrahim Mubarak Al Baalharith and Ahmad Eissa Aboshaiqah
Healthcare 2024, 12(7), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12070739 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Virtual care adoption accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for healthcare professionals to develop relevant competencies. However, limited evidence exists on the core competencies required for quality virtual care delivery. Objective: This study aimed to identify the critical competencies physicians, [...] Read more.
Background: Virtual care adoption accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for healthcare professionals to develop relevant competencies. However, limited evidence exists on the core competencies required for quality virtual care delivery. Objective: This study aimed to identify the critical competencies physicians, nurses, and other health professionals need for adequate virtual care provision in Saudi Arabia using a Delphi method. Methods: A 3-round Delphi technique was applied with a panel of 42 experts, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, academicians, and telehealth specialists. In Round 1, an open-ended questionnaire elicited competencies needed for virtual care. The competencies were distilled and rated for importance in Rounds 2 and 3 until consensus was achieved. Results: Consensus emerged on 151 competencies across 33 domains. The most prominent domains were communication (15 competencies), professionalism (13), leadership (12), health informatics (5), digital literacy (5), and clinical expertise (11). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring)
10 pages, 2400 KiB  
Article
Maternal Care Behavior and Its Consequences in Competition
by Guang-Yun Li, Yu-Chuang Li and Huai Liu
Insects 2024, 15(4), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15040236 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Parental care behavior has evolved as a life history strategy to improve reproductive success, particularly in organisms facing challenging environments. However, the variation in maternal care, such as egg-guarding behavior in response to the social environment and the associated ecological consequence of competition, [...] Read more.
Parental care behavior has evolved as a life history strategy to improve reproductive success, particularly in organisms facing challenging environments. However, the variation in maternal care, such as egg-guarding behavior in response to the social environment and the associated ecological consequence of competition, remains largely unknown. This study addresses a gap in current knowledge by examining the plasticity of maternal care behavior in the predatory mite C. eruditus and its impact on offspring survival and intra- and interspecific competition. Our results demonstrated that the reproductive females frequently exhibit egg-guarding behaviors, with enhanced maternal care efforts when the interspecific competitor is present. Egg masses are significantly more vulnerable to predation in the absence of maternal care. Guarding females increased egg survival rates and adversely influenced the survival of both con- and heterospecific competitors, with higher mortality rates being detected. Our findings highlight the ecological significance of maternal care behaviors and suggest that releasing C. eruditus and Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) together is not recommended for pest management in storage products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Behavior and Pathology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
21 pages, 3057 KiB  
Review
Targeting Siglec–Sialylated MUC1 Immune Axis in Cancer
by Ramya Ayyalasomayajula and Mare Cudic
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1334; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071334 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Siglecs play a key role in mediating cell–cell interactions via the recognition of different sialylated glycoconjugates, including tumor-associated MUC1, which can lead to the activation or inhibition of the immune response. The activation occurs through the signaling of Siglecs with the cytoplasmic immunoreceptor [...] Read more.
Siglecs play a key role in mediating cell–cell interactions via the recognition of different sialylated glycoconjugates, including tumor-associated MUC1, which can lead to the activation or inhibition of the immune response. The activation occurs through the signaling of Siglecs with the cytoplasmic immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM)-containing proteins, while the inhibition signal is a result of the interaction of intracellular immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif (ITIM)-bearing receptors. The interaction of tumor-associated MUC1 sialylated glycans with Siglecs via ITIM motifs decreases antitumor immunity. Consequently, these interactions are expected to play a key role in tumor evasion. Efforts to modulate the response of immune cells by blocking the immune-suppressive effects of inhibitory Siglecs, driving immune-activating Siglecs, and/or altering the synthesis and expression of the sialic acid glycocalyx are new therapeutic strategies deserving further investigation. We will highlight the role of Siglec’s family receptors in immune evasion through interactions with glycan ligands in their natural context, presented on the protein such as MUC1, factors affecting their fine binding specificities, such as the role of multivalency either at the ligand or receptor side, their spatial organization, and finally the current and future therapeutic interventions targeting the Siglec–sialylated MUC1 immune axis in cancer. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
5 pages, 202 KiB  
Editorial
Postharvest Management of Fruits and Vegetables—Series II
by Yoshihiro Imahori and Jinhe Bai
Foods 2024, 13(7), 1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071049 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Fruits and vegetables are crucial nutritional sources of carbohydrates, protein, minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber, offering significant benefits to human health [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Management of Fruits and Vegetables Series II)
14 pages, 6833 KiB  
Article
Reducing Automotive Cooling System Complexity through an Adaptive Biomimetic Air Control Valve
by Thomas Thuilot, Moses-Gereon Wullweber, Matthias Fischer, Michael Bennemann and Tobias Seidl
Biomimetics 2024, 9(4), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9040207 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Future automotive mobility is predominantly electric. Compared to existing systems, the requirements of subsystems change. Air flow for cooling components is needed predominantly when the car is in rest (i.e., charging) or at slow speeds. So far, actively driven fans consuming power and [...] Read more.
Future automotive mobility is predominantly electric. Compared to existing systems, the requirements of subsystems change. Air flow for cooling components is needed predominantly when the car is in rest (i.e., charging) or at slow speeds. So far, actively driven fans consuming power and generating noise are used in this case. Here we propose a passive adaptive system allowing for convection-driven cooling. The developed system is a highly adaptive flat valve derived from the bordered pit. It was developed through an iterative design process including simulations, both structural and thermodynamic. In hardwoods and conifers, bordered pits enable the challenging transport of vertical fluids by locally limiting damage. Depending on the structure, these can close at sudden pressure changes and take the function of valves. The result of the biomimetic abstraction process is a system-integrative, low-profile valve that is cheap to produce, long-lasting, lightweight, maintenance-free, and noise-free. It allows for the passive switching of air flow generation at the heat exchanger of the cooling between natural convection or an active airstream without the need for complex sensing and control systems. The geometric and material design factors allow for the simple tuning of the valve to the desired switching conditions during the design process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomimetics of Materials and Structures)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
11 pages, 620 KiB  
Article
Sex Differences in Albumin Quotient and Cerebrospinal Fluid Total Protein Content Do Not Depend on Anthropometric Factors
by Massimiliano Castellazzi, Raffaella Candeloro, Caterina Trevisan, Samantha Permunian, Gaia Buscemi, Sara Ghisellini, Giovanna Negri, Giada Gilli, Caterina Ferri, Tiziana Bellini, Stefano Pizzicotti and Maura Pugliatti
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(4), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14040362 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/serum albumin quotient (QAlb) and CSF total protein (TP) are more elevated in males than females, and this has been hypothesised to be due to anthropometric differences between the sexes. This study aimed to investigate QAlb and CSF TP [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/serum albumin quotient (QAlb) and CSF total protein (TP) are more elevated in males than females, and this has been hypothesised to be due to anthropometric differences between the sexes. This study aimed to investigate QAlb and CSF TP as a function of body height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). (2) Methods: A total of 207 patients were included in the study and analysed blinded to clinical diagnosis. (3) Results: Multivariable linear regressions were run to predict log-transformed Qalb and log-transformed CSF TP value from age, sex, weight, and height (first model) or from age, sex, and BMI (second model). In both models, age (β = 0.004, 95% CI = 0.002 to 0.006) and sex (β = −0.095, 95% CI = −0.169 to −0.021, and β = −0.135, 95% CI = −0.191 to −0.079) were significant predictors for QAlb, but weight, height, and BMI were not. Similarly, age (β = 0.004, 95% CI = 0.003 to 0.006) and sex (β = −0.077, 95% CI = −0.142 to −0.013, and β = −0.109, 95% CI = −0.157 to −0.060) were significant predictors for CSF TP, while anthropometric characteristics were not. No differences in QAlb and CSF TP were found when grouping males and females by BMI status. (4) Conclusions: Our data suggest that anthropometric characteristics could not explain the sex-related differences in QAlb and CSF TP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sex and Gender-Related Issues in the Era of Personalized Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">
15 pages, 2078 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Antibacterial Effects of Gallate Containing Compounds with Silver Nanoparticles in Gallate Crossed Linked PVA Hydrogel Films
by John Jackson and Claudia Helena Dietrich
Antibiotics 2024, 13(4), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13040312 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Currently available silver-based antiseptic wound dressings have limited patient effectiveness. There exists a need for wound dressings that behave as comfortable degradable hydrogels with a strong antibiotic potential. The objectives of this project were to investigate the combined use of gallates (either epi [...] Read more.
Currently available silver-based antiseptic wound dressings have limited patient effectiveness. There exists a need for wound dressings that behave as comfortable degradable hydrogels with a strong antibiotic potential. The objectives of this project were to investigate the combined use of gallates (either epi gallo catechin gallate (EGCG), Tannic acid, or Quercetin) as both PVA crosslinking agents and as potential synergistic antibiotics in combination with silver nanoparticles. Crosslinking was assessed gravimetrically, silver and gallate release was measured using inductively coupled plasma and HPLC methods, respectively. Synergy was measured using 96-well plate FICI methods and in-gel antibacterial effects were measured using planktonic CFU assays. All gallates crosslinked PVA with optimal extended swelling obtained using EGCG or Quercetin at 14% loadings (100 mg in 500 mg PVA with glycerol). All three gallates were synergistic in combination with silver nanoparticles against both gram-positive and -negative bacteria. In PVA hydrogel films, silver nanoparticles with EGCG or Quercetin more effectively inhibited bacterial growth in CFU counts over 24 h as compared to films containing single agents. These biocompatible natural-product antibiotics, EGCG or Quercetin, may play a dual role of providing stable PVA hydrogel films and a powerful synergistic antibiotic effect in combination with silver nanoparticles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanocarriers-Based Antimicrobial Drug Delivery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

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

Open Access Journals

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