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18 pages, 628 KiB  
Article
Lipase-Catalyzed Preparation and Optimization of Structured Phosphatidylcholine Containing Nervonic Acid
by Xun Ang, Hong Chen, Jiqian Xiang, Fang Wei and Siew Young Quek
Molecules 2024, 29(7), 1539; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29071539 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the incorporation of nervonic acid into the chemical structure of phosphatidylcholine via a lipase-catalyzed acidolysis reaction to obtain a functional phospholipid. Lipase immobilization was conducted, and Amberlite XAD7-HP was selected as a carrier to immobilize phospholipase A1 (PLA1 [...] Read more.
This study investigated the incorporation of nervonic acid into the chemical structure of phosphatidylcholine via a lipase-catalyzed acidolysis reaction to obtain a functional phospholipid. Lipase immobilization was conducted, and Amberlite XAD7-HP was selected as a carrier to immobilize phospholipase A1 (PLA1) for subsequent experiments. The main acidolysis reaction parameters, including enzyme load, substrate ratio, temperature, and water content, were studied against the reaction time. The optimum reaction conditions obtained were enzyme load, 20%; reaction temperature, 55 °C; water content, 1%; and reaction time, 9 h. The maximum incorporation of nervonic acid into phosphatidylcholine was 48 mol%, with PC recovery at 61.6 mol%. The positional distribution of structured phosphatidylcholine shows that nervonic acid was found in the sn-1 position due to enzyme specificity and in the sn-2 position, possibly due to acyl migration. Full article
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26 pages, 13560 KiB  
Article
Approximating Option Greeks in a Classical and Multi-Curve Framework Using Artificial Neural Networks
by Ryno du Plooy and Pierre J. Venter
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2024, 17(4), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17040140 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this paper, the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) is proposed to approximate the option price sensitivities of Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) Top 40 European call options in a classical and a modern multi-curve framework. The ANNs were trained on artificially generated [...] Read more.
In this paper, the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) is proposed to approximate the option price sensitivities of Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) Top 40 European call options in a classical and a modern multi-curve framework. The ANNs were trained on artificially generated option price data given the illiquid nature of the South African market, and the out-of-sample performance of the optimized ANNs was evaluated using an implied volatility surface constructed from published volatility skews. The results from this paper show that ANNs trained on artificially generated input data are able to accurately approximate the explicit solutions to the respective option price sensitivities of both a classical and a modern multi-curve framework in a real-world out-of-sample application to the South African market. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Investment Management in the Age of AI)
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19 pages, 6937 KiB  
Article
Experimental Study on Grout–Soil Interaction Effects in Sandy Soil under Different Water-to-Cement Ratios
by Huanxiao Hu, Yufan Lu, Chao Deng, Benqing Gan, Zhongliang Xie, Yuehui Cai and Aikun Chu
Buildings 2024, 14(4), 947; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14040947 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Due to the unique characteristics of sandy soil layers, there is often a coupling effect of multiple grout diffusion patterns in the grouting process, and different slurry diffusion modes may lead to different responses of soil structures. In this study, laboratory grouting model [...] Read more.
Due to the unique characteristics of sandy soil layers, there is often a coupling effect of multiple grout diffusion patterns in the grouting process, and different slurry diffusion modes may lead to different responses of soil structures. In this study, laboratory grouting model tests were conducted with homogeneous sand under different water-to-cement (w/c) ratios to reveal the temporal variations in grouting pressure, soil stress fields, and displacement fields during the grout diffusion process. The results show that, during the grouting process in the fine sand layer, the grout mainly exhibited a compaction–splitting diffusion mode. The farther away from the grouting center, the more pronounced the hysteresis effect of soil pressure caused by grout diffusion. Meanwhile, as the w/c ratio increased, the diffusion mode between the slurry and the soil was in a transitional state. At w/c > 1.2, the primary pattern changed from the fracture–compaction pattern to the permeation–fracture–compaction pattern and fracture–permeation pattern. And the overall trend of the grouting pressure curve was similar under all of the w/c ratio conditions, showing a trend of increasing to the maximum value of the pressure first and then decreasing. With the increase in the water–cement ratio, the overall value of the grouting pressure curve showed a decreasing trend, the pressure value increased more slowly with time before reaching the maximum value, and the more obvious the influence of water–cement ratio was when w/c > 1.2. Additionally, the surface displacement also exhibited an overall decreasing trend, and it had no obvious lifting value under the condition of w/c = 1.6. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Construction in Urban Underground Space)
14 pages, 5646 KiB  
Article
The Effects of the Lubricant Properties and Surface Finish Characteristics on the Tribology of High-Speed Gears for EV Transmissions
by Boris Zhmud, Morteza Najjari and Boris Brodmann
Lubricants 2024, 12(4), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants12040112 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Electric vehicle (EV) transmissions operate at high speeds. High-speed operation puts higher demands on bearings, seals, and gears. Bearings in EV transmissions are prone to electrically induced bearing damage and may exhibit signs of pitting and fluting. Surface-initiated rolling contact fatigue is another [...] Read more.
Electric vehicle (EV) transmissions operate at high speeds. High-speed operation puts higher demands on bearings, seals, and gears. Bearings in EV transmissions are prone to electrically induced bearing damage and may exhibit signs of pitting and fluting. Surface-initiated rolling contact fatigue is another common problem gaining increased attention lately. Most EV transmissions require a coupling between an oil-lubricated gearbox to an electrical motor that runs with minimal lubrication at very high rpm. The high mechanical and thermal stresses the seals are exposed to under starved lubrication conditions have a detrimental impact on their service life. Hence, proper lubrication is critical. In general, EV transmission fluids call for a somewhat different spectrum of properties compared to conventional ATFs. Gear tribology simulations open new ways to the design and optimization of lubrication for EV transmissions. Additionally, such simulations can also provide valuable insights into the effects of different oil properties on cooling and lubrication efficiencies, thereby helping in matching the lubricant and hardware characteristics for optimal performance. In the present communication, we demonstrate the effects of different lubricants and surface finishing technologies on the tribology of high-speed gears using tribological tests and advanced thermal elastohydrodynamic (TEHD) simulations. The important roles of lubricity additives and surface finish optimization are highlighted in conjunction with a move towards ultralow viscosity EV transmission fluids. Full article
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14 pages, 527 KiB  
Article
Circadian Gene Variants: Effects in Overweight and Obese Pregnant Women
by Marica Franzago, Paola Borrelli, Pierluigi Cavallo, Luciano Di Tizio, Diego Gazzolo, Marta Di Nicola, Liborio Stuppia and Ester Vitacolonna
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3838; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073838 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Obesity and overweight are common and complex conditions influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors. Several genetic variants located in the genes involved in clock systems and fat taste perception can affect metabolic health. In particular, the polymorphisms in CLOCK and BMAL1 genes [...] Read more.
Obesity and overweight are common and complex conditions influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors. Several genetic variants located in the genes involved in clock systems and fat taste perception can affect metabolic health. In particular, the polymorphisms in CLOCK and BMAL1 genes were reported to be significantly related to cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, sleep reduction, and evening preference. Moreover, genetic variants in the CD36 gene have been shown to be involved in lipid metabolism, regulation of fat intake, and body weight regulation. The aim of this study is to evaluate, for the first time, the association between variants in some candidate genes (namely, BMAL1 rs7950226 (G>A), CLOCK rs1801260 (A>G), CLOCK rs4864548 (G>A), CLOCK rs3736544 (G>A), CD36 rs1984112 (A>G), CD36 rs1761667 (G>A)) and overweight/obesity (OB) in pregnant women. A total of 163 normal-weight (NW) and 128 OB participants were included. A significant correlation was observed between A-allele in CLOCK rs4864548 and an increased risk of obesity (OR: 1.97; 95% CI 1.22–3.10, p = 0.005). In addition, we found that subjects carrying the haplotype of rs1801260-A, rs4864548-A, and rs3736544-G are likely to be overweight or obese (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.03–2.09, p = 0.030), compared with those with other haplotypes. Moreover, a significant relation was observed between third-trimester lipid parameters and genetic variants—namely, CD36 rs1984112, CD36 rs1761667, BMAL1 rs7950226, and CLOCK rs1801260. A multivariate logistic regression model revealed that CLOCK rs4864548 A-allele carriage was a strong risk factor for obesity (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.07–3.93, p = 0.029); on the other hand, greater adherence to Mediterranean diet (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.65–0.98, p = 0.038) and higher HDL levels (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94–0.99, p = 0.021) were related to a reduced risk of obesity. Interestingly, an association between maternal CLOCK rs4864548 and neonatal birthweight was detected (p = 0.025). These data suggest a potential role of the polymorphisms in clock systems and in fat taste perception in both susceptibility to overweight/obesity and influencing the related metabolic traits in pregnant women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Advances in Circadian Rhythm and Metabolism)
19 pages, 4293 KiB  
Article
Fluorocarbon Plasma-Polymerized Layer Increases the Release Time of Silver Ions and the Antibacterial Activity of Silver-Based Coatings
by Linda Bonilla-Gameros, Pascale Chevallier, Xavier Delvaux, L. Astrid Yá?ez-Hernández, Laurent Houssiau, Xavier Minne, Vanessa P. Houde, Andranik Sarkissian and Diego Mantovani
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070609 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Silver-based antibacterial coatings limit the spread of hospital-acquired infections. Indeed, the use of silver and silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag and AgO NPs) incorporated in amorphous hydrogenated carbon (a-C:H) as a matrix demonstrates a promising approach to reduce microbial contamination on environmental surfaces. However, [...] Read more.
Silver-based antibacterial coatings limit the spread of hospital-acquired infections. Indeed, the use of silver and silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag and AgO NPs) incorporated in amorphous hydrogenated carbon (a-C:H) as a matrix demonstrates a promising approach to reduce microbial contamination on environmental surfaces. However, its success as an antibacterial coating hinges on the control of Ag+ release. In this sense, if a continuous release is required, an additional barrier is needed to extend the release time of Ag+. Thus, this research investigated the use of a plasma fluoropolymer (CFx) as an additional top layer to elongate Ag+ release and increase the antibacterial activity due to its high hydrophobic nature. Herein, a porous CFx film was deposited on a-C:H containing Ag and AgO NPs using pulsed afterglow low pressure plasma polymerization. The chemical composition, surface wettability and morphology, release profile, and antibacterial activity were analyzed. Overall, the combination of a-C:H:Ag (12.1 at. % of Ag) and CFx film (120.0°, F/C = 0.8) successfully inactivated 88% of E. coli and delayed biofilm formation after 12 h. Thus, using a hybrid approach composed of Ag NPs and a hydrophobic polymeric layer, it was possible to increase the overall antibacterial activity of the coating. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
14 pages, 920 KiB  
Article
The Quality Evaluation of Avocado Fruits (Persea americana Mill.) of Hass Produced in Different Localities on the Island of Tenerife, Spain
by Clemente Méndez Hernández, Alicja Grycz, Domingo Rios Mesa, Beatriz Rodríguez Galdón and Elena M. Rodríguez-Rodríguez
Foods 2024, 13(7), 1058; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071058 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The effect of the production area on the quality of Hass avocados grown on the island of Tenerife was studied. For this purpose, several physicochemical parameters, such as fruit weight, percentage of pulp, seed and skin, proximate composition, minerals, total phenolic compounds (TP), [...] Read more.
The effect of the production area on the quality of Hass avocados grown on the island of Tenerife was studied. For this purpose, several physicochemical parameters, such as fruit weight, percentage of pulp, seed and skin, proximate composition, minerals, total phenolic compounds (TP), total flavonoid compounds (TF), α-tocopherol, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid profile were analyzed. The location of the orchards significantly influenced avocado weight; pulp and seed percentage; and fat, fiber, ash, α-tocopherol, TP, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, and oleic and palmitoleic acid contents. Buenavista (BU) avocados were the smallest (185 g) and presented the highest percentage of pulp (77.1%) and lowest percentage of fiber (5.43%). The highest levels of dry matter (33.8%) and fat (20.4%) were found in avocados harvested in Los Silos (SI) and Santiago del Teide (SA), respectively. Compared with those at the other locations, the avocados harvested in Güímar (GU) had high levels of α-tocopherol (52.2 µg g−1) and phenolic compounds (56.0 mg GAE 100 g−1). Avocados from Los Realejos (RE) had the highest percentage of oleic acid and the lowest percentage of palmitoleic acid. Numerous significant correlations were found between the variables studied, especially those between TP, TF, and antioxidant capacity (DPPH) and between fat percentage and dry matter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Quality and Safety)
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23 pages, 858 KiB  
Review
Process Waters from Hydrothermal Carbonization of Waste Biomasses like Sewage Sludge: Challenges, Legal Aspects, and Opportunities in EU and Germany
by Tommy Ender, Vicky Shettigondahalli Ekanthalu, Haniyeh Jalalipour, Jan Sprafke and Michael Nelles
Water 2024, 16(7), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16071003 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) has developed considerably over the last 15 years and offers a viable alternative for the utilization of municipal and industrial organic waste such as sewage sludge. However, the technology has yet to establish itself as a valorization process for waste [...] Read more.
Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) has developed considerably over the last 15 years and offers a viable alternative for the utilization of municipal and industrial organic waste such as sewage sludge. However, the technology has yet to establish itself as a valorization process for waste biomasses (2024) and is not yet a recognized state of the art. Nevertheless, the HTC technology could gain greater relevance in the future, especially as an alternative valorization pathway for sewage sludge. During HTC, significant amounts of HTC process water (PW) are produced as a byproduct. The process water is inorganically and organically polluted and has to be treated, as it would be a burden on water bodies and thus on the environment if left untreated. In the EU and specifically Germany, industrial wastewater producers like HTC-plant operators are obliged to treat their industrial wastewater before discharging it into the environment. In addition to a large amount of PW and its treatment to the required limits, the organic load and possible persistent and toxic substances pose major challenges for plant operators. Many proven processes from industrial wastewater treatment were transferred for the treatment of PW. Treatment of the PW in a manner that is industrially viable, economically viable, and efficient is crucial for the effective commercialization of HTC technology. In this, the challenges and opportunities of PW composition, management, and treatment, including legal aspects, are mainly discussed. Therefore, the legal framework in the European Union and specifically for Germany will be elaborated. Furthermore, different treatment pathways are also highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
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14 pages, 1472 KiB  
Article
Self-Healing Fiber Bragg Grating Sensor System Using Free-Space Optics Link and Machine Learning for Enhancing Temperature Measurement
by Michael Augustine Arockiyadoss, Amare Mulatie Dehnaw, Yibeltal Chanie Manie, Stotaw Talbachew Hayle, Cheng-Kai Yao, Chun-Hsiang Peng, Pradeep Kumar and Peng-Chun Peng
Electronics 2024, 13(7), 1276; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13071276 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This research investigates the integration of free-space optics (FSO) with fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors in self-healing ring architectures, aiming to improve reliability and signal-to-noise ratio in temperature sensing within sensor systems. The combination of FSO’s wireless connectivity and FBG sensors’ precision, known [...] Read more.
This research investigates the integration of free-space optics (FSO) with fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors in self-healing ring architectures, aiming to improve reliability and signal-to-noise ratio in temperature sensing within sensor systems. The combination of FSO’s wireless connectivity and FBG sensors’ precision, known for their sensitivity and immunity to electromagnetic interference, is particularly advantageous in demanding environments such as aerospace and structural health monitoring. The self-healing architecture enhances system resilience, automatically compensating for failures to maintain consistent monitoring capabilities. This study emphasizes the use of intensity wavelength division multiplexing (IWDM) to manage the complexities of increasing the multiplexing number of FBG sensors. Challenges arise with the overlapping spectra of FBGs when multiplexing several sensors. To address this, a hybrid approach combining an unsupervised autoencoder (AE) with a convolutional neural network (CNN) is proposed, significantly enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of sensor signal detection. These advancements signify substantial progress in sensor technology, validating the effectiveness of the AE-CNN hybrid model in refining FBG sensor systems and underscoring its potential for robust and reliable applications in critical sectors. Full article
23 pages, 1340 KiB  
Article
Pathogenomes of Shiga Toxin Positive and Negative Escherichia coli O157:H7 Strains TT12A and TT12B: Comprehensive Phylogenomic Analysis Using Closed Genomes
by Anwar A. Kalalah, Sara S. K. Koenig, Peter Feng, Joseph M. Bosilevac, James L. Bono and Mark Eppinger
Microorganisms 2024, 12(4), 699; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12040699 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli are zoonotic pathogens that cause food-borne human disease. Among these, the O157:H7 serotype has evolved from an enteropathogenic O55:H7 ancestor through the displacement of the somatic gene cluster and recurrent toxigenic conversion by Shiga toxin-converting bacteriophages. However, atypical strains [...] Read more.
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli are zoonotic pathogens that cause food-borne human disease. Among these, the O157:H7 serotype has evolved from an enteropathogenic O55:H7 ancestor through the displacement of the somatic gene cluster and recurrent toxigenic conversion by Shiga toxin-converting bacteriophages. However, atypical strains that lack the Shiga toxin, the characteristic virulence hallmark, are circulating in this lineage. For this study, we analyzed the pathogenome and virulence inventories of the stx+ strain, TT12A, isolated from a patient with hemorrhagic colitis, and its respective co-isolated stx- strain, TT12B. Sequencing the genomes to closure proved critical to the cataloguing of subtle strain differentiating sequence and structural polymorphisms at a high-level of phylogenetic accuracy and resolution. Phylogenomic profiling revealed SNP and MLST profiles similar to the near clonal outbreak isolates. Their prophage inventories, however, were notably different. The attenuated atypical non-shigatoxigenic status of TT12B is explained by the absence of both the ΦStx1a- and ΦStx2a-prophages carried by TT12A, and we also recorded further alterations in the non-Stx prophage complement. Phenotypic characterization indicated that culture growth was directly impacted by the strains’ distinct lytic phage complement. Altogether, our phylogenomic and phenotypic analyses show that these intimately related isogenic strains are on divergent Stx(+/stx−) evolutionary paths. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microorganisms Associated with Infectious Disease 2.0)
20 pages, 1169 KiB  
Article
The Association between Glymphatic System and Perivascular Macrophages in Brain Waste Clearance
by Jasleen Kaur, Edward D. Boyd, Guangliang Ding, Li Zhang, Hao Luo, Qingjiang Li, Lian Li, Min Wei, Julie Landschoot-Ward, Michael Chopp, Zhenggang Zhang and Quan Jiang
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070731 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The glymphatic system suggests the convective bulk flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through perivascular spaces and the interstitial spaces of the brain parenchyma for the rapid removal of toxic waste solutes from the brain. However, the presence of convective bulk flow within the [...] Read more.
The glymphatic system suggests the convective bulk flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through perivascular spaces and the interstitial spaces of the brain parenchyma for the rapid removal of toxic waste solutes from the brain. However, the presence of convective bulk flow within the brain interstitial spaces is still under debate. We first addressed this argument to determine the involvement of the glymphatic system in brain waste clearance utilizing contrast-enhanced 3D T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and confocal microscopy imaging. Furthermore, perivascular macrophages (PVMs), which are immune cells located within perivascular spaces, have not been thoroughly explored for their association with the glymphatic system. Therefore, we investigated tracer uptake by PVMs in the perivascular spaces of both the arteries/arterioles and veins/venules and the potential association of PVMs in assisting the glymphatic system for interstitial waste clearance. Our findings demonstrated that both convective bulk flow and diffusion are responsible for the clearance of interstitial waste solutes from the brain parenchyma. Furthermore, our results suggested that PVMs may play an important function in glymphatic system-mediated interstitial waste clearance. The glymphatic system and PVMs could be targeted to enhance interstitial waste clearance in patients with waste-associated neurological conditions and aging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
11 pages, 3009 KiB  
Article
Procalcitonin Detection Using Immunomagnetic Beads-Mediated Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
by Jiayue Huang, Dagan Zhang, Yan Zu and Lexiang Zhang
Biosensors 2024, 14(4), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14040164 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The early detection of procalcitonin (PCT) is crucial for diagnosing bacterial infections due to its high sensitivity and specificity. While colloidal gold colorimetric and immune-chemiluminescence methods are commonly employed in clinical detection, the former lacks sensitivity, and the latter faces challenges with a [...] Read more.
The early detection of procalcitonin (PCT) is crucial for diagnosing bacterial infections due to its high sensitivity and specificity. While colloidal gold colorimetric and immune-chemiluminescence methods are commonly employed in clinical detection, the former lacks sensitivity, and the latter faces challenges with a brief luminescence process and an elevated background. Here, we introduce a novel approach for the quantitative analysis of PCT using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), leveraging the enhanced properties of metal nanoparticles. Simultaneously, we employed a magnetic nanoparticle coating and surface biofunctionalization modification to immobilize PCT-trapping antibodies, creating the required immune substrates. The resulting magnetic nanoparticles and antibody complexes, acting as carriers and recognition units, exhibited superparamagnetism and the specific recognition of biomarkers. Then, this complex efficiently underwent magnetic separation with an applied magnetic field, streamlining the cumbersome steps of traditional ELISA and significantly reducing the detection time. In conclusion, the exploration of immunomagnetic bead detection technology based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy holds crucial practical significance for the sensitive detection of PCT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors and Healthcare)
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17 pages, 782 KiB  
Article
Synergetic Effects of Aloe Vera Extract with Trimethylglycine for Targeted Aquaporin 3 Regulation and Long-Term Skin Hydration
by Viktor Filatov, Anna Sokolova, Natalya Savitskaya, Mariya Olkhovskaya, Andrey Varava, Egor Ilin and Elizaveta Patronova
Molecules 2024, 29(7), 1540; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29071540 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Aquaporin 3 (AQP3) channels are tetrameric membrane-bound channels that facilitate the transport of water and other small solutes across cell membranes in the skin. Decreased AQP3 expression is associated with skin dryness, skin aging, psoriasis, and delayed wound healing. Thus, our study focused [...] Read more.
Aquaporin 3 (AQP3) channels are tetrameric membrane-bound channels that facilitate the transport of water and other small solutes across cell membranes in the skin. Decreased AQP3 expression is associated with skin dryness, skin aging, psoriasis, and delayed wound healing. Thus, our study focused on a novel combination based on Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine for targeted AQP3 regulation in skin keratinocytes and deep skin moisturization. Firstly, a dose-finding cytotoxicity assay of the selected substances was performed with a 2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) indicator on HaCaT cells. The substances’ ability to increase the amount of AQP3 in keratinocytes was evaluated in a keratinocyte cell culture by means of ELISA. Additionally, the deep skin hydration effect was confirmed in clinical research with healthy volunteers. According to the results, the maximum tolerated doses providing viability at 70% (MTDs) values for Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine were 24.50% and 39.00%, respectively. Following the research and development, a complex based on Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine in a 1:1 mass ratio exhibited a good cytotoxicity profile, with an MTDs value of 37.90%. Furthermore, it was shown that the combination had a clear synergetic effect and significantly increased AQP3 by up to 380% compared to the negative control and glyceryl glucoside (p < 0.001). It was clinically confirmed that the developed shower gel containing Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine safely improved skin hydration after one use and over 28 days. Thus, this novel plant-based combination has promising potential for AQP3 regulation in the skin epidermis and a role in the development of dermatological drugs for the treatment of skin xerosis and atopic-related conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Analogues with Promising Biological Profiles)
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13 pages, 772 KiB  
Review
Assessing Animal Models to Study Impaired and Chronic Wounds
by Shayan Saeed and Manuela Martins-Green
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3837; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073837 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Impaired healing wounds do not proceed through the normal healing processes in a timely and orderly manner, and while they do eventually heal, their healing is not optimal. Chronic wounds, on the other hand, remain unhealed for weeks or months. In the US [...] Read more.
Impaired healing wounds do not proceed through the normal healing processes in a timely and orderly manner, and while they do eventually heal, their healing is not optimal. Chronic wounds, on the other hand, remain unhealed for weeks or months. In the US alone, chronic wounds impact ~8.5 million people and cost ~USD 28–90 billion per year, not accounting for the psychological and physical pain and emotional suffering that patients endure. These numbers are only expected to rise in the future as the elderly populations and the incidence of comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity increase. Over the last few decades, scientists have used a variety of approaches to treat chronic wounds, but unfortunately, to date, there is no effective treatment. Indeed, while there are thousands of drugs to combat cancer, there is only one single drug approved for the treatment of chronic wounds. This is in part because wound healing is a very complex process involving many phases that must occur sequentially and in a timely manner. Furthermore, models that fully mimic human chronic wounds have not been developed. In this review, we assess various models currently being used to study the biology of impaired healing and chronic non-healing wounds. Among them, this paper also highlights one model which shows significant promise; this model uses aged and obese db/db−/− mice and the chronic wounds that develop show characteristics of human chronic wounds that include increased oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, damaged microvasculature, abnormal collagen matrix deposition, a lack of re-epithelialization, and the spontaneous development of multi-bacterial biofilm. We also discuss how important it is that we continue to develop chronic wound models that more closely mimic those of humans and that can be used to test potential treatments to heal chronic wounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms on Wound Healing)
18 pages, 4339 KiB  
Article
Microstructure, Variant Selection, and Mechanical Properties of Laser-Welded Ti-4Al-2V Joints
by Yonghui Zhu, Lili Lu, Chenlu Zhang, Jun Yuan, Chao Fu and Lu Wang
Metals 2024, 14(4), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14040405 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Laser welding of the near α-phase titanium alloy Ti-4Al-2V, used for complex components in the nuclear industry, has been rarely reported. In this study, butt weld joints made of Ti-4Al-2V alloy plates under different parameters, including the laser power, the welding speed, and [...] Read more.
Laser welding of the near α-phase titanium alloy Ti-4Al-2V, used for complex components in the nuclear industry, has been rarely reported. In this study, butt weld joints made of Ti-4Al-2V alloy plates under different parameters, including the laser power, the welding speed, and the defocus distance, were manufactured and analyzed. The results showed that adjusting the combination of 4.2 kW of laser power, a 20 mm/s welding speed, and a −2 mm defocus distance could achieve a penetration depth exceeding 6 mm. Porosity defects were prone to forming in the middle and bottom parts of the fusion zone, due to rapid cooling. The microstructure of the fusion zone was mainly needle-like α martensite, which precipitated in the form of specific clusters. The interior of a cluster was composed of three types of variants with <11−20>/60° phase interfaces to achieve the lower boundary’s energy. Affected by the microstructure and welding defects, the strength of the weld joint was basically similar under different welding conditions, namely about 720 MPa, slightly higher than that of the base metal, while the rupture elongation at breaking decreased by more than 50%. The micro-Vickers hardness of the weld joints was about 50–60 HV higher than that of the base metal, while the impact toughness was about 40 KJ, almost half that of the base metal. This research lays a solid foundation for the engineering application of laser welding of Ti-4Al-2V alloys. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Laser Welding Technologies for Metals and Alloys)
13 pages, 2604 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Fluid Behaviors in a Pushbutton-Activated Microfluidic Device for User-Independent Flow Control
by Dong Hyun Han, Gihyun Lee, Untaek Oh, Yejin Choi and Je-Kyun Park
Micromachines 2024, 15(4), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15040465 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Although numerous studies have been conducted to realize ideal point-of-care testing (POCT), the development of a user-friendly and user-independent power-free microfluidic platform is still a challenge. Among various methods, the finger-actuation method shows a promising technique that provides a user-friendly and equipment-free way [...] Read more.
Although numerous studies have been conducted to realize ideal point-of-care testing (POCT), the development of a user-friendly and user-independent power-free microfluidic platform is still a challenge. Among various methods, the finger-actuation method shows a promising technique that provides a user-friendly and equipment-free way of delivering fluid in a designated manner. However, the design criteria and elaborate evaluation of the fluid behavior of a pushbutton-activated microfluidic device (PAMD) remain a critical bottleneck to be widely adopted in various applications. In this study, we have evaluated the fluid behavior of the PAMD based on various parameters, such as pressing velocity and depth assisted by a press machine. We have further developed a user-friendly and portable pressing block that reduces user variation in fluid behavior based on the evaluation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances of Microfluidics for Biomedical Applications)
14 pages, 5477 KiB  
Article
Whole-Genome Sequencing for Identifying Candidate Genes Related to the Special Phenotypes of the Taihu Dianzi Pigeon
by Rui Zhang, Chunyu Mu, Lingling Chang, Xinyue Shen, Zhu Bu, Mingjun Yang, Shengyong Fu, Qingping Tang, Peiyao Liu and Xiaoming Yang
Animals 2024, 14(7), 1047; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071047 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The Taihu Dianzi pigeon is a breed native to China, and its special piebalding, crest, and polydactyly phenotypes are the result of artificial and natural selection. Here, we analyzed the genetic differences among three kinds of pigeons with different phenotypes at the genomic [...] Read more.
The Taihu Dianzi pigeon is a breed native to China, and its special piebalding, crest, and polydactyly phenotypes are the result of artificial and natural selection. Here, we analyzed the genetic differences among three kinds of pigeons with different phenotypes at the genomic level. A selective sweep was conducted based on the fixation index (FST) and nucleotide diversity (π) ratio, and the results revealed that MC1R was related to the formation of the distinctive piebalding of the Taihu Dianzi pigeon. Combined with the results of genome-wide association studies, we identified candidate genes associated with the crest (SMYD and STOX2) and polydactyly (SLC52A3 and ANGPT4). The candidate genes identified in this study and their variants may be useful for understanding the genetic mechanism underlying the special phenotypes of the Taihu Dianzi pigeon. This study provides new insights into the genetic factors that may influence the formation of the special piebalding, crest, and polydactyly characteristics in pigeons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Birds)
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21 pages, 4823 KiB  
Article
The “Restoration of the Restoration”: Investigation of a Complex Surface and Interface Pattern in the Roman Wall Paintings of Volsinii Novi (Bolsena, Central Italy)
by Claudia Pelosi, Filomena Di Stasio, Luca Lanteri, Martina Zuena, Marta Sardara and Armida Sodo
Coatings 2024, 14(4), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14040408 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: The present paper reports the results of the analyses performed on the wall paintings of Room E of the Domus delle Pitture (Room of the Paintings) in the Roman archaeological site of Volsinii Novi (Bolsena, Viterbo, Central Italy) aimed at supporting [...] Read more.
(1) Background: The present paper reports the results of the analyses performed on the wall paintings of Room E of the Domus delle Pitture (Room of the Paintings) in the Roman archaeological site of Volsinii Novi (Bolsena, Viterbo, Central Italy) aimed at supporting the recently concluded restoration. (2) Methods: ultraviolet fluorescence photography was conducted to evaluate the conservation state. Painting materials were investigated via portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (p-XRF), µ-Raman spectroscopy, cross-section analysis under polarizing microscope, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. (3) Results: This analysis revealed the presence of traditional pigments used in Roman wall paintings, such as ochres, earths, and Egyptian blue. Additionally, it identified pigments from previous restoration containing titanium and chromium, along with other materials present in the surface and interface of the wall painting containing arsenic, copper, lead, and vanadium, where a bluish alteration was observed. In these samples, µ-Raman spectroscopy detected calcium oxalates but also copper arsenates, likely conichalcite and/or duftite. (4) Conclusions: This result is highly relevant from an analytical point of view and in relation to the restoration decisions. Addressing the irregular bluish stains on the wall paintings poses challenges in understanding, requiring a decision on whether to remove or retain them. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface and Interface Analysis of Cultural Heritage, 2nd Edition)
24 pages, 5507 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Wind Turbine Blade Preventive Maintenance Procedure through Computational Fluid Dynamics-Based Prediction of Wall Shear Stress
by Wasan Palasai, Chalermpol Plengsa-Ard and Mongkol Kaewbumrung
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2873; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072873 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Wind turbine blades are essential parts of wind energy systems and are frequently exposed to harsh environmental elements, such as strong winds, turbulence, and corrosive atmospheric elements. Over time, these circumstances may result in serious harm to blades, such as delamination and erosion, [...] Read more.
Wind turbine blades are essential parts of wind energy systems and are frequently exposed to harsh environmental elements, such as strong winds, turbulence, and corrosive atmospheric elements. Over time, these circumstances may result in serious harm to blades, such as delamination and erosion, which may negatively affect the wind turbine’s functionality and durability. Accurate prediction of various types of damage is crucial to improve the toughness and lifespan of wind turbine blades and to maximize the overall effectiveness of wind energy systems. This article presents a novel computational fluid dynamics (CFDs)-based method for analyzing the distribution of wall shear stress on turbine blades, aimed at publicizing the yearly maintenance procedure. The investigation results from the CFDs, when compared with the current situation in a wind turbine farm in Thailand, confirmed that our wall shear stress modeling accurately predicted wind turbine damage. A maximum wall shear stress level higher than 5.00 Pa in the case of PA 90°, incoming air velocity 10.00 m/s, and 15 rpm was the main contribution to presenting the erosion and delamination from current drone inspection in wind turbine farms. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated the potential of using CFDs to predict wind turbine blade delamination and erosion, thereby significantly contributing to the development of specific and accurate yearly preventive maintenance. The proposed CFDs-based approach should serve as a sustainability tool for local human development, benefiting wind turbine engineers and operating technicians by providing them with a deeper understanding of the local flow conditions and wall shear stress distribution along wind turbine blades. This enables them to make informed decisions regarding blade design and maintenance. Full article
17 pages, 1688 KiB  
Article
Sea-Surface Small Target Detection Based on Improved Markov Transition Fields
by Ru Ye, Hongyan Xing and Xing Zhou
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(4), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12040582 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Addressing the limitations of manually extracting features from small maritime target signals, this paper explores Markov transition fields and convolutional neural networks, proposing a detection method for small targets based on an improved Markov transition field. Initially, the raw data undergo a Fourier [...] Read more.
Addressing the limitations of manually extracting features from small maritime target signals, this paper explores Markov transition fields and convolutional neural networks, proposing a detection method for small targets based on an improved Markov transition field. Initially, the raw data undergo a Fourier transform, feature fusion is performed on the series, and a spectrogram is generated using Markov transition fields to extract radar data features from both the time domain and frequency domain, providing a more comprehensive data representation for the detector. Then, the InceptionResnetV2 network is employed as a classifier, setting decision thresholds based on the softmax layer’s output, thus achieving controllable false alarms in the detection of small maritime targets. Additionally, transfer learning is introduced to address the issue of sample imbalance. The IPIX dataset is used for experimental verification. The experimental results show that the proposed detection method can deeply mine the differences between targets and the maritime clutter background, demonstrating superior detection performance. When the observation time is set to 1.024 s, the IMIRV2 detector performs best. Cross-validation with different data preprocessing methods and classification models reveals a significant advantage in the performance of the IMIRV2 detector, especially at low signal-to-noise ratios. Finally, a comparison with the performance of existing detectors indicates that the proposed method offers certain improvements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
8 pages, 2878 KiB  
Case Report
A Case Report of Secondary Glaucoma in A Patient with HTLV-1: Discussion about the Management of Secondary Glaucoma Due to Recurrent Granulomatous Uveitis
by Kenta Ashikaga, Teruhiko Hamanaka, Mayumi Hosogai, Takao Tanaka, Shintaro Nakao and Toshinari Funaki
J. Clin. Transl. Ophthalmol. 2024, 2(2), 26-33; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcto2020003 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Purpose: to investigate secondary glaucoma resulting from uveitis in a patient infected with Human T-cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) pathologically and discuss the management of glaucoma with recurrent uveitis. Clinical course: An octogenarian woman diagnosed as a carrier of HTLV-1 experienced recurrent [...] Read more.
Purpose: to investigate secondary glaucoma resulting from uveitis in a patient infected with Human T-cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) pathologically and discuss the management of glaucoma with recurrent uveitis. Clinical course: An octogenarian woman diagnosed as a carrier of HTLV-1 experienced recurrent uveitis and a sudden rise in intraocular pressure (IOP) in both eyes. Due to the uncontrolled IOP and severely damaged visual field in her left eye, a combined procedure of trabeculectomy and DGIS (glaucoma drainage implant surgery, Baerveldt 350) was performed. The presence of HTLV-1 provirus was detected in the aqueous humor. Her trabeculectomy sample was processed for light microscopic observation. Following an irregular follow-up, she presented with a sudden decrease in vision and pain in her fellow eye, four years after the glaucoma surgeries. Her right eye exhibited a significant accumulation of mutton-fat-like keratic precipitates. Results: Clinical manifestations revealed the presence of granulomatous uveitis. The combined glaucoma surgery, along with continuous topical corticosteroid medication post-surgery in her left eye, effectively suppressed the high IOP spikes and the recurrence of uveitis for 4 years. The pathological examination of the outflow pathways showed a range of damages in Schlemm’s canal (SC), including SC endothelial loss, narrowing, and occlusion, as well as loss of trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and fused TM beams. Conclusion: Combined GDIS and trabeculectomy represents a promising approach for managing such refractory cases of secondary glaucoma. Continuous topical corticosteroid medication is strongly recommended to prevent irreversible changes in SC and TM associated with granulomatous uveitis. Full article
28 pages, 673 KiB  
Review
An Overview on the Big Players in Bone Tissue Engineering: Biomaterials, Scaffolds and Cells
by Maria Pia Ferraz
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3836; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073836 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Presently, millions worldwide suffer from degenerative and inflammatory bone and joint issues, comprising roughly half of chronic ailments in those over 50, leading to prolonged discomfort and physical limitations. These conditions become more prevalent with age and lifestyle factors, escalating due to the [...] Read more.
Presently, millions worldwide suffer from degenerative and inflammatory bone and joint issues, comprising roughly half of chronic ailments in those over 50, leading to prolonged discomfort and physical limitations. These conditions become more prevalent with age and lifestyle factors, escalating due to the growing elderly populace. Addressing these challenges often entails surgical interventions utilizing implants or bone grafts, though these treatments may entail complications such as pain and tissue death at donor sites for grafts, along with immune rejection. To surmount these challenges, tissue engineering has emerged as a promising avenue for bone injury repair and reconstruction. It involves the use of different biomaterials and the development of three-dimensional porous matrices and scaffolds, alongside osteoprogenitor cells and growth factors to stimulate natural tissue regeneration. This review compiles methodologies that can be used to develop biomaterials that are important in bone tissue replacement and regeneration. Biomaterials for orthopedic implants, several scaffold types and production methods, as well as techniques to assess biomaterials’ suitability for human use—both in laboratory settings and within living organisms—are discussed. Even though researchers have had some success, there is still room for improvements in their processing techniques, especially the ones that make scaffolds mechanically stronger without weakening their biological characteristics. Bone tissue engineering is therefore a promising area due to the rise in bone-related injuries. Full article
16 pages, 9818 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Recrystallization Constitutive Model and Texture Evolution of Metastable β Titanium Alloy TB8 during Thermal Deformation
by Chuankun Zhou, Fang Cao, Zhirong Yang and Weifeng Rao
Materials 2024, 17(7), 1572; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071572 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The mechanical properties of metastable β-titanium alloys are highly susceptible during the thermal mechanical processing (TMP). In this process, the recrystallization process plays an important role in determining the microstructure and texture evolution. The implementation of dynamic recrystallization (DRX), a process for achieving [...] Read more.
The mechanical properties of metastable β-titanium alloys are highly susceptible during the thermal mechanical processing (TMP). In this process, the recrystallization process plays an important role in determining the microstructure and texture evolution. The implementation of dynamic recrystallization (DRX), a process for achieving β-grain refinement, is considered of great significance for the improvement of the properties of metastable β-titanium alloys and their industrial production. Along these lines, in this work, an isothermal compression test of TB8 titanium alloy was carried out by using a Gleeble-3500 thermal simulator. As a result, the rheological stress behavior was analyzed, the thermal processing map was accurately established based on the stress–strain curve, and the optimal processing interval was determined. The DRX kinetic and the DRX grain size models were developed, on the basis of which a new DRX intrinsic model was established to improve the material parameters. Therefore, the actual situation in the working process could be better predicted. The microstructural evolution of TB8 titanium alloy during thermal deformation was comprehensively investigated using the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique. The obtained results demonstrate a close correlation between the diversity of DRX mechanisms in TB8 alloy and the distribution of dislocation density. Four microstructural textures during thermal deformation were identified, in which the cube texture of (001) <010> and the R-Gorss Nd texture of (110) <110> dominate. Due to the random orientation of the dynamically recrystallized grains, the strength of the R-Gorss Nd texture of (110) <110> increases with the increase in the volume fraction of DRX. On the contrary, it was verified that the dynamic recrystallization behavior has a significant weakening impact on the cube texture of (001) <010>. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)

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