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19 pages, 44609 KiB  
Article
Effect of GLP-1 Receptor Agonist on Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Rats with Metabolic Syndrome
by Marko Ravic, Ivan Srejovic, Jovana Novakovic, Marijana Andjic, Jasmina Sretenovic, Maja Muric, Marina Nikolic, Sergey Bolevich, Kirill Alekseevich Kasabov, Vladimir Petrovich Fisenko, Aleksandra Stojanovic and Vladimir Jakovljevic
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040525 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents an important factor that increases the risk of myocardial infarction, and more severe complications. Glucagon Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1RAs) exhibit cardioprotective potential, but their efficacy in MetS-related myocardial dysfunction has not been fully explored. Therefore, we aimed to [...] Read more.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents an important factor that increases the risk of myocardial infarction, and more severe complications. Glucagon Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1RAs) exhibit cardioprotective potential, but their efficacy in MetS-related myocardial dysfunction has not been fully explored. Therefore, we aimed to assess the effects of exenatide and dulaglutide on heart function and redox balance in MetS-induced rats. Twenty-four Wistar albino rats with induced MetS were divided into three groups: MetS, exenatide-treated (5 µg/kg), dulaglutide-treated (0.6 mg/kg). After 6 weeks of treatment, in vivo heart function was assessed via echocardiography, while ex vivo function was evaluated using a Langendorff apparatus to simulate ischemia-reperfusion injury. Heart tissue samples were analyzed histologically, and oxidative stress biomarkers were measured spectrophotometrically from the coronary venous effluent. Both exenatide and dulaglutide significantly improved the ejection fraction by 3% and 7%, respectively, compared to the MetS group. Histological analyses corroborated these findings, revealing a reduction in the cross-sectional area of cardiomyocytes by 11% in the exenatide and 18% in the dulaglutide group, indicating reduced myocardial damage in GLP-1RA-treated rats. Our findings suggest strong cardioprotective potential of GLP-1RAs in MetS, with dulaglutide showing a slight advantage. Thus, both exenatide and dulaglutide are potentially promising targets for cardioprotection and reducing mortality in MetS patients. Full article
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20 pages, 1905 KiB  
Article
Fuel Characteristics and Phytotoxicity Assay of Biochar Derived from Rose Pruning Waste
by Julia Stefanów, Karolina Sobieraj, Małgorzata Hejna, Katarzyna Pawęska and Kacper Świechowski
Materials 2024, 17(8), 1895; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17081895 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was the characterization and evaluation of applicability as a soil amendment of biochar derived from rose pruning waste at different pyrolysis temperatures (200–500 °C) and process durations (20–60 min). The biochar properties were compared to the raw material. [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was the characterization and evaluation of applicability as a soil amendment of biochar derived from rose pruning waste at different pyrolysis temperatures (200–500 °C) and process durations (20–60 min). The biochar properties were compared to the raw material. The biochars produced at 300 °C for 40 and 60 min demonstrated the best fuel properties. These variants showed high energy gain rates (77.6 ± 1.5% and 74.8 ± 1.5%, respectively), energy densification ratios (1.35 ± 0.00 and 1.37 ± 0.00, respectively), high heating values (24,720 ± 267 J × g−1 and 25,113 ± 731 J × g−1, respectively), and relative low ash contents (5.9 ± 0.5% and 7.1 ± 0.3%, respectively). Regarding fertilizer properties, such as pH value, ash content, heavy metal content, and pollutant elution, the biochars showed better qualities than the raw material. All tested biochar did not exceed the permissible values for heavy metals, including Cr, Cd, Ni, and Pb. The most optimal properties for soil amendments were noted for biochar variants of 400 °C for 40 min, 450 °C for 20 min, and 500 °C for 20 min. Generally, biochars produced at temperatures ≥400 °C did not inhibit root elongation, except for the material produced at 450 °C for 60 min (4.08 ± 23.34%). Biochars obtained at ≥300 °C showed a positive impact on seed germination (86.67 ± 18.48–100 ± 24.14%). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Materials: From Processing to Modern Applications)
21 pages, 3492 KiB  
Article
GLUENet: An Efficient Network for Remote Sensing Image Dehazing with Gated Linear Units and Efficient Channel Attention
by Jiahao Fang, Xing Wang, Yujie Li, Xuefeng Zhang, Bingxian Zhang and Martin Gade
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(8), 1450; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16081450 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Dehazing individual remote sensing (RS) images is an effective approach to enhance the quality of hazy remote sensing imagery. However, current dehazing methods exhibit substantial systemic and computational complexity. Such complexity not only hampers the straightforward analysis and comparison of these methods but [...] Read more.
Dehazing individual remote sensing (RS) images is an effective approach to enhance the quality of hazy remote sensing imagery. However, current dehazing methods exhibit substantial systemic and computational complexity. Such complexity not only hampers the straightforward analysis and comparison of these methods but also undermines their practical effectiveness on actual data, attributed to the overtraining and overfitting of model parameters. To mitigate these issues, we introduce a novel dehazing network for non-uniformly hazy RS images: GLUENet, designed for both lightweightness and computational efficiency. Our approach commences with the implementation of the classical U-Net, integrated with both local and global residuals, establishing a robust base for the extraction of multi-scale information. Subsequently, we construct basic convolutional blocks using gated linear units and efficient channel attention, incorporating depth-separable convolutional layers to efficiently aggregate spatial information and transform features. Additionally, we introduce a fusion block based on efficient channel attention, facilitating the fusion of information from different stages in both encoding and decoding to enhance the recovery of texture details. GLUENet’s efficacy was evaluated using both synthetic and real remote sensing dehazing datasets, providing a comprehensive assessment of its performance. The experimental results demonstrate that GLUENet’s performance is on par with state-of-the-art (SOTA) methods and surpasses the SOTA methods on our proposed real remote sensing dataset. Our method on the real remote sensing dehazing dataset has an improvement of 0.31 dB for the PSNR metric and 0.13 for the SSIM metric, and the number of parameters and computations of the model are much lower than the optimal method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section AI Remote Sensing)
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20 pages, 1074 KiB  
Review
Analysis and Characterization of the Extracellular Vesicles Released in Non-Cancer Diseases Using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization/Mass Spectrometry
by Antonella Maria Aresta, Nicoletta De Vietro and Carlo Zambonin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4490; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084490 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
The extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by cells play a crucial role in intercellular communications and interactions. The direct shedding of EVs from the plasma membrane represents a fundamental pathway for the transfer of properties and information between cells. These vesicles are classified based [...] Read more.
The extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by cells play a crucial role in intercellular communications and interactions. The direct shedding of EVs from the plasma membrane represents a fundamental pathway for the transfer of properties and information between cells. These vesicles are classified based on their origin, biogenesis, size, content, surface markers, and functional features, encompassing a variety of bioactive molecules that reflect the physiological state and cell type of origin. Such molecules include lipids, nucleic acids, and proteins. Research efforts aimed at comprehending EVs, including the development of strategies for their isolation, purification, and characterization, have led to the discovery of new biomarkers. These biomarkers are proving invaluable for diagnosing diseases, monitoring disease progression, understanding treatment responses, especially in oncology, and addressing metabolic, neurological, infectious disorders, as well as advancing vaccine development. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI)/Mass Spectrometry (MS) stands out as a leading tool for the analysis and characterization of EVs and their cargo. This technique offers inherent advantages such as a high throughput, minimal sample consumption, rapid and cost-effective analysis, and user-friendly operation. This review is mainly focused on the primary applications of MALDI–time-of-flight (TOF)/MS in the analysis and characterization of extracellular vesicles associated with non-cancerous diseases and pathogens that infect humans, animals, and plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exosomes and Extracellular Vesicles in Health and Diseases 2.0)
36 pages, 1026 KiB  
Review
An Update on Pharmacologic Management of Neonatal Hypotension: When, Why, and Which Medication
by Eleni Agakidou, Ilias Chatziioannidis, Angeliki Kontou, Theodora Stathopoulou, William Chotas and Kosmas Sarafidis
Children 2024, 11(4), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11040490 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Anti-hypotensive treatment, which includes dopamine, dobutamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, milrinone, vasopressin, terlipressin, levosimendan, and glucocorticoids, is a long-established intervention in neonates with arterial hypotension (AH). However, there are still gaps in knowledge and issues that need clarification. The main questions and challenges that neonatologists [...] Read more.
Anti-hypotensive treatment, which includes dopamine, dobutamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, milrinone, vasopressin, terlipressin, levosimendan, and glucocorticoids, is a long-established intervention in neonates with arterial hypotension (AH). However, there are still gaps in knowledge and issues that need clarification. The main questions and challenges that neonatologists face relate to the reference ranges of arterial blood pressure in presumably healthy neonates in relation to gestational and postnatal age; the arterial blood pressure level that potentially affects perfusion of critical organs; the incorporation of targeted echocardiography and near-infrared spectroscopy for assessing heart function and cerebral perfusion in clinical practice; the indication, timing, and choice of medication for each individual patient; the limited randomized clinical trials in neonates with sometimes conflicting results; and the sparse data regarding the potential effect of early hypotension or anti-hypotensive medications on long-term neurodevelopment. In this review, after a short review of AH definitions used in neonates and existing data on pathophysiology of AH, we discuss currently available data on pharmacokinetic and hemodynamic effects, as well as the effectiveness and safety of anti-hypotensive medications in neonates. In addition, data on the comparisons between anti-hypotensive medications and current suggestions for the main indications of each medication are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neonatal Clinical Pharmacology)
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5 pages, 552 KiB  
Short Note
Chloro(η22-cycloocta-1,5-diene){1-benzyl-3-[(S)-2-hydroxy-1-methylethyl]benzimidazol-2-ylidene}rhodium(I)
by Satoshi Sakaguchi and Shogo Matsuo
Molbank 2024, 2024(2), M1811; https://doi.org/10.3390/M1811 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Previously, we demonstrated the synthesis of a well-defined hydroxyalkyl-functionalized N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)/Ru(II) complex through the transmetalation reaction between [RuCl2(p-cymene)]2 and the corresponding NHC/Ag(I) complex derived from a chiral benzimidazolium salt using the Ag2O method. In [...] Read more.
Previously, we demonstrated the synthesis of a well-defined hydroxyalkyl-functionalized N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)/Ru(II) complex through the transmetalation reaction between [RuCl2(p-cymene)]2 and the corresponding NHC/Ag(I) complex derived from a chiral benzimidazolium salt using the Ag2O method. In this study, we successfully synthesized [RhX(cod)(NHC)] complexes through a one-pot deprotonation route. The hydroxyalkyl-substituted benzimidazolium salt reacted with [Rh(OH)(cod)]2 in THF at room temperature, affording the corresponding monodentate NHC/Rh(I) complex in nearly quantitative yield. The rhodium complex was characterized using NMR, HRMS measurement, and elemental analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Heterocyclic Carbene Catalysis)
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19 pages, 10426 KiB  
Article
Leveraging 5G Technology to Investigate Energy Consumption and CPU Load at the Edge in Vehicular Networks
by Salah Eddine Merzougui, Xhulio Limani, Andreas Gavrielides, Claudio Enrico Palazzi and Johann Marquez-Barja
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(4), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15040171 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
The convergence of vehicular communications, 5th generation mobile network (5G) technology, and edge computing marks a paradigm shift in intelligent transportation. Vehicular communication systems, including Vehicle-to-Vehicle and Vehicle-to-Infrastructure, are integral to Intelligent Transportation Systems. The advent of 5G enhances connectivity, while edge computing [...] Read more.
The convergence of vehicular communications, 5th generation mobile network (5G) technology, and edge computing marks a paradigm shift in intelligent transportation. Vehicular communication systems, including Vehicle-to-Vehicle and Vehicle-to-Infrastructure, are integral to Intelligent Transportation Systems. The advent of 5G enhances connectivity, while edge computing brings computational processes closer to data sources. This synergy holds the potential to revolutionize transportation efficiency and safety. This research investigates vehicular communication and edge computing dynamics within a 5G network, considering varying distances between On Board Units and Roadside Units. Energy consumption patterns and CPU load at the RSU are analyzed through meticulous real-world experiments and simulations. Our results show stable energy consumption at shorter distances, with fluctuations increasing at greater ranges. CPU load correlates with communication distance, highlighting the need for adaptive algorithms. While experiments exhibit higher variability, our simulations validate these findings, emphasizing the importance of considering transmission range in vehicular communication network design. Full article
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11 pages, 849 KiB  
Article
Effects of Species of Leaves and Conditioning Time on Vernal Colonization by Temperate Lotic Isopods (Lirceus sp.)
by Renee E. Heller, Alison N. Stouffer and Erika V. Iyengar
Hydrobiology 2024, 3(2), 63-73; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrobiology3020005 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
While some streams have dense populations of aquatic detritivorous isopods, research on the colonization of leaf packs typically focuses on aquatic insects. To determine whether shifts in dominant local forest species might impact isopod populations, we placed leaf packs of red/sugar maple, American [...] Read more.
While some streams have dense populations of aquatic detritivorous isopods, research on the colonization of leaf packs typically focuses on aquatic insects. To determine whether shifts in dominant local forest species might impact isopod populations, we placed leaf packs of red/sugar maple, American beech, and red oak on the substratum of riffles and pools in Cedar Creek (Allentown, PA, USA) in April 2019. We retrieved the packs after one week, re-deployed them, and re-collected them after two weeks of submersion, enumerating the number of isopods (Lirceus sp.) upon each retrieval. Surprisingly, neither the species of leaf nor the stream microhabitat significantly affected the number of isopods. However, the duration of leaf conditioning was important; significantly more isopods inhabited leaves after two weeks of submersion than after only one week. Maple and oak leaves displayed significantly more skeletonization after two weeks than the beech leaves, which remained intact. However, the similar numbers of isopods across leaf species suggest either the presence of acceptable, consumable microbial communities on all three species of leaves or that a tradeoff exists between the value of food and the importance of refuge provided by intact leaves. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecosystem Disturbance in Small Streams)
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11 pages, 1464 KiB  
Article
U-CAN-seq: A Universal Competition Assay by Nanopore Sequencing
by Jennifer Diaz, John Sears, Che-Kang Chang, Jane Burdick, Isabella Law, Wes Sanders, Colton Linnertz, Paul Sylvester, Nathaniel Moorman, Martin T. Ferris and Mark T. Heise
Viruses 2024, 16(4), 636; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16040636 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
RNA viruses quickly evolve subtle genotypic changes that can have major impacts on viral fitness and host range, with potential consequences for human health. It is therefore important to understand the evolutionary fitness of novel viral variants relative to well-studied genotypes of epidemic [...] Read more.
RNA viruses quickly evolve subtle genotypic changes that can have major impacts on viral fitness and host range, with potential consequences for human health. It is therefore important to understand the evolutionary fitness of novel viral variants relative to well-studied genotypes of epidemic viruses. Competition assays are an effective and rigorous system with which to assess the relative fitness of viral genotypes. However, it is challenging to quickly and cheaply distinguish and quantify fitness differences between very similar viral genotypes. Here, we describe a protocol for using reverse transcription PCR in combination with commercial nanopore sequencing services to perform competition assays on untagged RNA viruses. Our assay, called the Universal Competition Assay by Nanopore Sequencing (U-CAN-seq), is relatively cheap and highly sensitive. We used a well-studied N24A mutation in the chikungunya virus (CHIKV) nsp3 gene to confirm that we could detect a competitive disadvantage using U-CAN-seq. We also used this approach to show that mutations to the CHIKV 5′ conserved sequence element that disrupt sequence but not structure did not affect the fitness of CHIKV. However, similar mutations to an adjacent CHIKV stem loop (SL3) did cause a fitness disadvantage compared to wild-type CHIKV, suggesting that structure-independent, primary sequence determinants in this loop play an important role in CHIKV biology. Our novel findings illustrate the utility of the U-CAN-seq competition assay. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section General Virology)
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21 pages, 3117 KiB  
Article
New Life in the Countryside: Conservation and Sustainability of Vernacular Architectural Facade Characteristics in the Jiangnan Region, China
by Pingyi Han, Shenjian Hu and Rui Xu
Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3426; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083426 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
The facade form of vernacular architecture is an outward manifestation of the building structure, which can easily give people an intuitive impression of the building. Most of the existing studies focus on analyzing the construction process and building materials of vernacular architecture in [...] Read more.
The facade form of vernacular architecture is an outward manifestation of the building structure, which can easily give people an intuitive impression of the building. Most of the existing studies focus on analyzing the construction process and building materials of vernacular architecture in detail, but there are few studies on the characteristic elements in the form of architectural facades. The main objective of this study is to propose a new methodology for objectively analyzing the morphological characteristics of architectural facades with complex networks to support the sustainable development of vernacular architecture. The results of the study show that the vernacular architectural facades in the Jiangnan region are characterized by the richness of details and distinctive layers and that the formal elements that can show the regional characteristics are preserved in the process of the sustainable development of vernacular architecture. The most crucial part of this is the roof shape, followed by the simplification of the detailing and how the vertical form elements are laid out horizontally. The article addresses the protection and continuity of vernacular architectural facade characteristics and proposes a strategic plan to strengthen the vernacular architectural facade characteristics in the Jiangnan region, aiming to protect the traditional characteristics and continue the traditional culture. Full article
21 pages, 3195 KiB  
Article
Pyrogenic Carbonaceous Materials Production of Four Tropical Wood Produced by Slow Pyrolysis at Different Temperatures: Charcoal and Biochar Properties
by Róger Moya, Carolina Tenorio, Jaime Quesada-Kimzey and Federico Másis-Meléndez
Energies 2024, 17(8), 1953; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17081953 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Costa Rica produces a considerable, important quantity of wood residues. This waste can be pyrolyzed to produce charcoals as main products that can be effectively used as an energy source or to immobilize carbon for soil treatment. However, there is a lack of [...] Read more.
Costa Rica produces a considerable, important quantity of wood residues. This waste can be pyrolyzed to produce charcoals as main products that can be effectively used as an energy source or to immobilize carbon for soil treatment. However, there is a lack of information about the pyrogenic carbonaceous materials (PCMs), such as charcoal or biochar, obtained at different pyrolysis temperatures. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the quality of PCMs (physical, mechanical, ultimate analysis, and FTIR analysis) and charcoal characteristics (energetic properties and thermogravimetric analysis—TGA) and biochar characteristics (conductivity, pH, initial contact angle, and wetting rates) for four tropical wood residues produced in five temperatures (300 °C, 350 °C, 400 °C, 450 °C, and 500 °C). In general, pyrolysis temperature between 450 °C and 500 °C produced charcoals with lower values of density, moisture content, compression strength, volatiles, H and O content, and higher values of C and ash contents, conductivity, pH, initial contact angle, and wetting rates. FTIR and TGA analyses show that celluloses and lignin are pyrolyzed at these temperatures, so these temperatures are recommended. The range of 300–350 °C is not recommended, as these parameters were inverse. Multivariate analysis shows that (i) PCMs obtained at lower temperatures (300–350 °C) from Dipteryx panamensis, Hieronyma alchorneoides, and Tectona grandis belong to a cluster with poorer properties, indicating that these temperatures are not adequate for pyrolysis of these species; (ii) all the PCMs obtained from Gmelina arborea were grouped into one cluster, suggesting different PCM quality; and (iii) the PCMs produced from D. panamensis, H. alchorneoides, and T. grandis at 400–500 °C were grouped into another cluster with better properties, suggesting this pyrolysis temperature range as the best for these species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A4: Bio-Energy)
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23 pages, 2981 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Influence of Insulation Moisture during Long-Term Exploitation of Transformers on Their Reliability as Determined by Alternating Current Electrical Parameters
by Pawel Zukowski, Konrad Kierczynski, Przemyslaw Rogalski, Vitalii Bondariev, Marek Zenker, Rafal Pajak, Marek Szrot, Pawel Molenda and Tomasz N. Koltunowicz
Energies 2024, 17(8), 1952; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17081952 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper presents the results of the study of the direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) electrical properties of an electrical pressboard–bio-insulating oil–water composite in a wide range of water content and temperatures used in electric power transformers. These parameters allow the [...] Read more.
This paper presents the results of the study of the direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) electrical properties of an electrical pressboard–bio-insulating oil–water composite in a wide range of water content and temperatures used in electric power transformers. These parameters allow the level of insulation reliability to be determined after many years of operation of power transformers. To analyse the experimental results, a model of the DC and AC conductivities of nanocomposites based on the quantum-mechanical phenomenon of electron tunnelling was used. It was found that in a low-frequency region, the conductivities of AC and DC and their activation energy are equal. The relaxation times of AC conductivity and permittivity are also equal. It was found that the dependence of the DC conductivity on the distance between water molecules is an exponential function. On the basis of the model of conductivity by electron tunnelling between potential wells, the average number of water molecules in a nanodroplet, located in a composite of electrical pressboard–bio-insulating oil–moisture was determined to be (126 ± 20). It was found that the measured dependencies of DC and AC conductivity, permeability and dielectric relaxation times are consistent with the results of computer simulations performed on the basis of the model. This study showed that the composite of pressboard impregnated with bio-oil spontaneously transforms through water absorption into a pressboard–bio-oil–water nanocomposite. These will serve as the basis for the application of actual conductivity and dielectric relaxation mechanisms to improve the accuracy of moisture estimation in the solid component of power transformer insulation carried out on the basis of measurements of DC and AC properties. This will improve the operational safety of the transformers, minimise the occurrence of transformer failure and the associated environmental pollution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Featured Papers in Electrical Power and Energy System)
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33 pages, 2939 KiB  
Article
Saturated Trajectory Tracking Controller in the Body-Frame for Quadrotors
by João Madeiras, Carlos Cardeira, Paulo Oliveira, Pedro Batista and Carlos Silvestre
Drones 2024, 8(4), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones8040163 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper introduces a quadrotor trajectory tracking controller comprising a steady-state optimal position controller with a normed input saturation and modular integrative action coupled with a backstepping attitude controller. First, the translational and rotational dynamical models are designed in the body-fixed frame to [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a quadrotor trajectory tracking controller comprising a steady-state optimal position controller with a normed input saturation and modular integrative action coupled with a backstepping attitude controller. First, the translational and rotational dynamical models are designed in the body-fixed frame to avoid external rotations and are partitioned into an underactuated position system and a quaternion-based attitude system. Secondly, a controller is designed separately for each subsystem, namely, (i) the position controller synthesis is derived from the Maximum Principle, Lyapunov, and linear quadratic regulator (LQR) theory, ensuring the global exponential stability and steady-state optimality of the controller within the linear region, and global asymptotic stability is guaranteed for the saturation region when coupled with any local exponential stable attitude controller, and (ii) the attitude system, with the quaternion angles and the angular velocity as the controlled variables, is designed in the error space through the backstepping technique, which renders the overall system, position, and attitude, with desirable closed-loop properties that are almost global. The overall stability of the system is achieved through the propagation of the position interconnection term to the attitude system. To enhance the robustness of the tracking system, integrative action is devised for both position and attitude, with emphasis on the modular approach for the integrative action on the position controller. The proposed method is experimentally validated on board an off-the-shelf quadrotor to assess the resulting performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drone Design and Development)
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18 pages, 1116 KiB  
Article
Measurement and Forecasting of Systemic Risk: A Vine Copula Grouped-CoES Approach
by Huiting Duan, Jinghu Yu and Linxiao Wei
Mathematics 2024, 12(8), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12081233 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Measuring systemic risk plays an important role in financial risk management to control systemic risk. By means of a vine copula grouped-CoES method, this paper aims to measure the systemic risk of Chinese financial markets. The empirical study indicates that the banking industry [...] Read more.
Measuring systemic risk plays an important role in financial risk management to control systemic risk. By means of a vine copula grouped-CoES method, this paper aims to measure the systemic risk of Chinese financial markets. The empirical study indicates that the banking industry has a low risk and a strong ability to resist risks, but also contributes the most of the systemic risk. On the other hand, insurance companies and securities have high ES but low ΔCoES, indicating their low risk tolerance and small contribution to the systemic risk. Furthermore, this study employs a sliding window in Monte Carlo simulation to forecast systemic risk. The findings of this paper suggest that different types of financial industries should adopt different systemic risk measures. Full article
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13 pages, 1476 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Postharvest Storage Temperatures on Fruit Flavor Constituents in ‘Wushancuili’ Plum
by Qinyu Feng, Zhichao Wang, Wei Xiong, Wenbin Kong, Ming Huang, Wanpeng Xi and Kun Zhou
Horticulturae 2024, 10(4), 414; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040414 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Chinese plum (Prunus salicina) cv. Wushancuili has a green coloration, high fruit quality, and is economically important in eliminating poverty and protecting ecology in the Yangtze River Three Gorges Reservoir. However, large-scale production and synchronous ripening times present a huge postharvest [...] Read more.
Chinese plum (Prunus salicina) cv. Wushancuili has a green coloration, high fruit quality, and is economically important in eliminating poverty and protecting ecology in the Yangtze River Three Gorges Reservoir. However, large-scale production and synchronous ripening times present a huge postharvest storage challenge. This study investigated the effect of different postharvest storage temperatures on the ‘Wushancuili’ plum fruit flavor. The dynamics of soluble sugars, organic acids, and aroma substances were investigated at four temperatures mimicking large-scale commercial storage applications: 0–2 °C, 4–6 °C, 8–10 °C, and 20 °C, for 0, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, and 20 days. Storage under the 0–2 °C regime was the best at preserving fruit flavor and reducing decay compared to the other settings. At 0–2 °C, fruit maintained a stable level of soluble sugars and organic acids during storage. Moreover, this storage temperature facilitated the formation of aroma compounds such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and acids, which contributed to the distinct fruit aromatic characteristics. Taken together, our findings indicate that 0–2 °C is the most favorable temperature for commercial storage and maintenance of the ‘Wushancuili’ plum flavor. Full article
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24 pages, 412 KiB  
Perspective
Proteomics—The State of the Field
by Jens R. Coorssen and Matthew P. Padula
Proteomes 2024, 12(2), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/proteomes12020014 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
With growing recognition and acknowledgement of the genuine complexity of proteomes, we are finally entering the post-proteogenomic era. Routine assessment of proteomes as inferred correlates of gene sequences (i.e., canonical ‘proteins’) cannot provide the necessary critical analysis of systems-level biology that is needed [...] Read more.
With growing recognition and acknowledgement of the genuine complexity of proteomes, we are finally entering the post-proteogenomic era. Routine assessment of proteomes as inferred correlates of gene sequences (i.e., canonical ‘proteins’) cannot provide the necessary critical analysis of systems-level biology that is needed to understand underlying molecular mechanisms and pathways or identify the most selective biomarkers and therapeutic targets. These critical requirements demand the analysis of proteomes at the level of proteoforms/protein species, the actual active molecular players. Currently, only highly refined integrated or integrative top-down proteomics (iTDP) enables the analytical depth necessary to provide routine, comprehensive, and quantitative proteome assessments across the widest range of proteoforms inherent to native systems. Here we provide a broad perspective of the field, taking in historical and current realities, to establish a more balanced understanding of where the field has come from (in particular during the ten years since Proteomes was launched), current issues, and how things likely need to proceed if necessary deep proteome analyses are to succeed. We base this in our firm belief that the best proteomic analyses reflect, as closely as possible, the native sample at the moment of sampling. We also seek to emphasise that this and future analytical approaches are likely best based on the broad recognition and exploitation of the complementarity of currently successful approaches. This also emphasises the need to continuously evaluate and further optimize established approaches, to avoid complacency in thinking and expectations but also to promote the critical and careful development and introduction of new approaches, most notably those that address proteoforms. Above all, we wish to emphasise that a rigorous focus on analytical quality must override current thinking that largely values analytical speed; the latter would certainly be nice, if only proteoforms could thus be effectively, routinely, and quantitatively assessed. Alas, proteomes are composed of proteoforms, not molecular species that can be amplified or that directly mirror genes (i.e., ‘canonical’). The problem is hard, and we must accept and address it as such, but the payoff in playing this longer game of rigorous deep proteome analyses is the promise of far more selective biomarkers, drug targets, and truly personalised or even individualised medicine. Full article
12 pages, 763 KiB  
Article
Osculating Type Ruled Surfaces with Type-2 Bishop Frame in E3
by Özgür Boyacıoğlu Kalkan and Süleyman Şenyurt
Symmetry 2024, 16(4), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16040498 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
The aim of this work is to investigate osculating type ruled surfaces with a type 2-Bishop frame in E3. We accomplish this by employing the symmetry of osculating curves. We examine osculating type ruled surfaces by taking into account the curvatures [...] Read more.
The aim of this work is to investigate osculating type ruled surfaces with a type 2-Bishop frame in E3. We accomplish this by employing the symmetry of osculating curves. We examine osculating type ruled surfaces by taking into account the curvatures of the base curve. We investigate the geometric properties of these surfaces, focusing on their cylindrical and developable characteristics. Moreover, we calculate the Gaussian and mean curvatures and provide the requirements for the surface to be flat and minimal. We determine the requirements for the curves lying on this surface to be geodesic, asymptotic curves, or lines of curvature. Furthermore, relations between osculating type ruled surfaces with central tangent and central normal vectors are given. Finally, some examples of these surfaces are presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contact Geometry: Reduction, Symmetries and Applications)
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16 pages, 4519 KiB  
Article
Dysregulated VEGF/VEGFR-2 Signaling and Plexogenic Lesions in the Embryonic Lungs of Chickens Predisposed to Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
by Lujie Ye, Rui Liu, Qinghao Li, Chunzhen Zhou and Xun Tan
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4489; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084489 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Plexiform lesions are a hallmark of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in humans and are proposed to stem from dysfunctional angioblasts. Broiler chickens (Gallus gallus) are highly susceptible to PAH, with plexiform-like lesions observed in newly hatched individuals. Here, we reported the [...] Read more.
Plexiform lesions are a hallmark of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in humans and are proposed to stem from dysfunctional angioblasts. Broiler chickens (Gallus gallus) are highly susceptible to PAH, with plexiform-like lesions observed in newly hatched individuals. Here, we reported the emergence of plexiform-like lesions in the embryonic lungs of broiler chickens. Lung samples were collected from broiler chickens at embryonic day 20 (E20), hatch, and one-day-old, with PAH-resistant layer chickens as controls. Plexiform lesions consisting of CD133+/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor type-2 (VEGFR-2)+ angioblasts were exclusively observed in broiler embryos and sporadically in layer embryos. Distinct gene profiles of angiogenic factors were observed between the two strains, with impaired VEGF-A/VEGFR-2 signaling correlating with lesion development and reduced arteriogenesis. Pharmaceutical inhibition of VEGFR-2 resulted in enhanced lesion development in layer embryos. Moreover, broiler embryonic lungs displayed increased activation of HIF-1α and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), indicating a hypoxic state. Remarkably, we found a negative correlation between lung Nrf2 activation and VEGF-A and VEGFR-2 expression. In vitro studies indicated that Nrf2 overactivation restricted VEGF signaling in endothelial progenitor cells. The findings from broiler embryos suggest an association between plexiform lesion development and impaired VEGF system due to aberrant activation of Nrf2. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Molecular Pathology of Pulmonary Hypertension)
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15 pages, 2903 KiB  
Article
Detection and Identification of Pesticides in Fruits Coupling to an Au–Au Nanorod Array SERS Substrate and RF-1D-CNN Model Analysis
by Pengxing Sha, Chushu Zhu, Tianran Wang, Peitao Dong and Xuezhong Wu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080717 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this research, a method was developed for fabricating Au–Au nanorod array substrates through the deposition of large-area Au nanostructures on an Au nanorod array using a galvanic cell reaction. The incorporation of a granular structure enhanced both the number and intensity of [...] Read more.
In this research, a method was developed for fabricating Au–Au nanorod array substrates through the deposition of large-area Au nanostructures on an Au nanorod array using a galvanic cell reaction. The incorporation of a granular structure enhanced both the number and intensity of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) hot spots on the substrate, thereby elevating the SERS performance beyond that of substrates composed solely of an Au nanorod. Calculations using the finite difference time domain method confirmed the generation of a strong electromagnetic field around the nanoparticles. Motivated by the electromotive force, Au ions in the chloroauric acid solution were reduced to form nanostructures on the nanorod array. The size and distribution density of these granular nanostructures could be modulated by varying the reaction time and the concentration of chloroauric acid. The resulting Au–Au nanorod array substrate exhibited an active, uniform, and reproducible SERS effect. With 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethylene as the probe molecule, the detection sensitivity of the Au–Au nanorod array substrate was enhanced to 10−11 M, improving by five orders of magnitude over the substrate consisting only of an Au nanorod array. For a practical application, this substrate was utilized for the detection of pesticides, including thiram, thiabendazole, carbendazim, and phosmet, within the concentration range of 10−4 to 5 × 10−7 M. An analytical model combining a random forest and a one-dimensional convolutional neural network, referring to the important variable-one-dimensional convolutional neural network model, was developed for the precise identification of thiram. This approach demonstrated significant potential for biochemical sensing and rapid on-site identification. Full article
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18 pages, 1788 KiB  
Review
Gene Therapy for Hypertension, Atherosclerosis, and Familial Hypercholesterolemia: The Old Concepts and the New Era
by Nikolaos Evangelidis and Paschalis Evangelidis
Biologics 2024, 4(2), 143-160; https://doi.org/10.3390/biologics4020010 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease remains the main cause of mortality in the 21st century. Hypertension, vessel atherosclerosis, and familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are responsible for increased mortality and morbidity in patients. Therapies for cardiovascular disease are based on drug treatment options, but in the era of [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular disease remains the main cause of mortality in the 21st century. Hypertension, vessel atherosclerosis, and familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are responsible for increased mortality and morbidity in patients. Therapies for cardiovascular disease are based on drug treatment options, but in the era of precision medicine, personalized treatments are being developed. Studies have shown that these conditions have a strong genetic background, creating an opportunity for the implementation of gene therapy for these diseases. Currently, gene therapy is not widely used in clinical practice. Recent advances in this research field are making gene therapy a very promising preventive and therapeutic tool for cardiovascular disease. Essential hypertension’s (EH) pathophysiology is mostly based on the activation of both the sympathetic nervous system and the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS), natriuretic peptide production, and endothelial dysfunction. Plasmid DNA and viral vectors can be used, targeting the main mechanisms in the pathogenesis of EH. Many preclinical studies have been developed across the years, presenting a significant decrease in blood pressure. Nevertheless, no clinical studies have been developed studying the implementation of gene therapy in EH. Atherosclerotic damage is caused by monogenic diseases or is deteriorated by the activation of inflammation in the vessel wall. Gene therapy studies have been developed in the pre- and clinical phases targeting the lipoprotein and cholesterol metabolism and the inflammation of the vessels. FH is a common inherited metabolic disease associated with high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Clinical trials of gene therapy have been developed and presented optimistic results. In this review, the challenges of gene therapy for cardiovascular disease are outlined. Nevertheless, more clinical trials are needed to be performed for the development of convenient and safe drug schemes for our patients. Full article
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22 pages, 10413 KiB  
Article
Bridging Domains and Resolutions: Deep Learning-Based Land Cover Mapping without Matched Labels
by Shuyi Cao, Yubin Tang, Enping Yan, Jiawei Jiang and Dengkui Mo
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(8), 1449; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16081449 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
High-resolution land cover mapping is crucial in various disciplines but is often hindered by the lack of accurately matched labels. Our study introduces an innovative deep learning methodology for effective land cover mapping, independent of matched labels. The approach comprises three main components: [...] Read more.
High-resolution land cover mapping is crucial in various disciplines but is often hindered by the lack of accurately matched labels. Our study introduces an innovative deep learning methodology for effective land cover mapping, independent of matched labels. The approach comprises three main components: (1) An advanced fully convolutional neural network, augmented with super-resolution features, to refine labels; (2) The application of an instance-batch normalization network (IBN), leveraging these enhanced labels from the source domain, to generate 2-m resolution land cover maps for test sites in the target domain; (3) Noise assessment tests to evaluate the impact of varying noise levels on the model’s mapping accuracy using external labels. The model achieved an overall accuracy of 83.40% in the target domain using endogenous super-resolution labels. In contrast, employing exogenous, high-precision labels from the National Land Cover Database in the source domain led to a notable accuracy increase of 2.55%, reaching 85.48%. This improvement highlights the model’s enhanced generalizability and performance during domain shifts, attributed significantly to the IBN layer. Our findings reveal that, despite the absence of native high-precision labels, the utilization of high-quality external labels can substantially benefit the development of precise land cover mapping, underscoring their potential in scenarios with unmatched labels. Full article
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18 pages, 2979 KiB  
Article
Empowering Potential of the My Assistive Technology Guide: Exploring Experiences and User Perspectives
by Elsa M. Orellano-Colon, Angelis Fernández-Torres, Nixmarie Figueroa-Alvira, Bernice Ortiz-Vélez, Nina L. Rivera-Rivera, Gabriela A. Torres-Ferrer and Rubén Martín-Payo
Disabilities 2024, 4(2), 303-320; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities4020020 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
The use of assistive technology (AT) devices enhances older adults’ function in daily activities. However, the lack of awareness of AT among potential AT users has been identified as a major barrier to its adoption. This study aimed to assess the quality of [...] Read more.
The use of assistive technology (AT) devices enhances older adults’ function in daily activities. However, the lack of awareness of AT among potential AT users has been identified as a major barrier to its adoption. This study aimed to assess the quality of the Mi Guía de Asistencia Tecnológica (MGAT) web app, which provides information on AT, from the perspective of older Latinos with physical disabilities, and to explore their experience using the MGAT. We employed a convergent parallel mixed-method design involving 12 older Latinos living in Puerto Rico. In Phase I, the researchers trained the participants in the use of the MGAT. In Phase II, participants were encouraged to use it for 30 days. In Phase III, the participants completed the User Mobile Application Rating Scale and individual interviews, analyzed with descriptive statistics and a directed thematic content analysis. The quality of the MGAT was rated high in both the objective (mean = 3.99; SD = 0.7) and subjective (mean = 4.13; SD = 1.1) domains. Qualitative data revealed the MGAT was accessible, usable, desirable, credible, useful, and valuable to increasing older Latinos’ AT knowledge, function, and autonomy. The MGAT has the potential to increase AT awareness and adoption among older adults. Full article
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27 pages, 5816 KiB  
Article
High Starch Induces Hematological Variations, Metabolic Changes, Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory Responses, and Histopathological Lesions in Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)
by Yuanyuan Xie, Xianping Shao, Penghui Zhang, Hao Zhang, Jiaxing Yu, Xinfeng Yao, Yifan Fu, Jiao Wei and Chenglong Wu
Metabolites 2024, 14(4), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo14040236 (registering DOI) - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study evaluated effects of high starch (20%) on hematological variations, glucose and lipid metabolism, antioxidant ability, inflammatory responses, and histopathological lesions in largemouth bass. Results showed hepatic crude lipid and triacylglycerol (TAG) contents were notably increased in fish fed high starch. High [...] Read more.
This study evaluated effects of high starch (20%) on hematological variations, glucose and lipid metabolism, antioxidant ability, inflammatory responses, and histopathological lesions in largemouth bass. Results showed hepatic crude lipid and triacylglycerol (TAG) contents were notably increased in fish fed high starch. High starch could increase counts of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils and serum contents of TAG, TBA, BUN, and LEP (p < 0.05). There were increasing trends in levels of GLUT2, glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and LDH in fish fed high starch through the AKT/PI3K signal pathway. Meanwhile, high starch not only triggered TAG and cholesterol synthesis, but mediated cholesterol accumulation by reducing ABCG5, ABCG8, and NPC1L1. Significant increases in lipid droplets and vacuolization were also shown in hepatocytes of D3–D7 groups fed high starch. In addition, high starch could decrease levels of mitochondrial Trx2, TrxR2, and Prx3, while increasing ROS contents. Moreover, high starch could notably increase amounts of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, TNF-α, etc.) by activating NLRP3 inflammasome key molecules (GSDME, caspase 1, etc.). In conclusion, high starch could not only induce metabolic disorders via gluconeogenesis and accumulation of glycogen, TAG, and cholesterol, but could disturb redox homeostasis and cause inflammatory responses by activating the NLRP3 inflammasome in largemouth bass. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolism in Aquatic Products)
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