The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
17 pages, 3857 KiB  
Article
Subsidy-Dominated Non-Farm Income Improves Herder Household Livelihoods and Promotes Income Equality in North Tibet, China
by Yu Zhang, Ben Niu and Xianzhou Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3681; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093681 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
The non-farm sector is critical in supporting sustainable economies, alleviating poverty, and improving human well-being. However, the drivers of non-farm income and how it impacts income inequality remain underexplored, especially in alpine regions worldwide. Herein, we conducted face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires with [...] Read more.
The non-farm sector is critical in supporting sustainable economies, alleviating poverty, and improving human well-being. However, the drivers of non-farm income and how it impacts income inequality remain underexplored, especially in alpine regions worldwide. Herein, we conducted face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires with 665 herder households across 54 villages in North Tibet from 2018 to 2020. We assessed the role of non-farm income in household economies and explored the determinants of household income using basic statistical methods, Gini coefficient analysis, and mixed-effects modeling. Our results showed that non-farm income accounted for approximately 80% of the total household income. It contributed to lower income inequality in rural North Tibet, with government subsidies playing a more vital role than wages and business income in this reduction. Results indicated that the number of migrant workers was the most significant positive predictor of both non-farm income and total household income, whereas livestock units dominated farm income. Given the modest contributions of livestock-derived income (~5%) and wage and business revenues (~18%) to overall earnings, this study suggests that policies should primarily focus on strengthening rural livestock husbandry. Simultaneously, it is imperative to foster environments that encourage entrepreneurship and non-farm activities and to expand access to skill-based training. Such initiatives and measures are essential for diversifying livelihood strategies and improving resident welfare in North Tibet. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)
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14 pages, 6895 KiB  
Article
Effect of Geometrical Parameters on the Mechanical Performance of Bamboo-Inspired Gradient Hollow-Strut Octet Lattice Structure Fabricated by Additive Manufacturing
by Junxian Ge, Yu Song, Zhenyu Chen, Yuhao Zhuo, Tongzheng Wei, Chen Ge, Yuang Cheng, Ming Liu and Qingbo Jia
Micromachines 2024, 15(5), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15050583 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Hollow-strut metal lattice structures are currently attracting extensive attention due to their excellent mechanical performance. Inspired by the node structure of bamboo, this study aimed to investigate the mechanical performance of the gradient hollow-strut octet lattice structure fabricated by laser powder bed fusion [...] Read more.
Hollow-strut metal lattice structures are currently attracting extensive attention due to their excellent mechanical performance. Inspired by the node structure of bamboo, this study aimed to investigate the mechanical performance of the gradient hollow-strut octet lattice structure fabricated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The effect of geometrical parameters on the yield strength, Young’s modulus and energy absorption of the designed octet unit cells were studied and optimized by FEA analysis. The hollow-strut geometrical parameters that deliver the best mechanical property combinations were identified, and the corresponding unit cells were then redesigned into the 3 × 3 × 3 type lattice structures for experimental evaluations. Compression tests confirmed that the designed gradient hollow-strut octet lattice structures demonstrated superior mechanical properties and deformation stability than their solid-strut lattice structure counterparts. The underlying deformation mechanism analysis revealed that the remarkably enhanced bending strength of the gradient hollow-strut lattice structure made significant contributions to its mechanical performance improvement. This study is envisaged to shed light on future hollow-strut metal lattice structure design for lightweight applications, with the final aim of enhancing the component’s mechanical properties and/or lowering its density as compared with the solid-strut lattice structures. Full article
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18 pages, 1744 KiB  
Article
Classification of Sleep Quality and Aging as a Function of Brain Complexity: A Multiband Non-Linear EEG Analysis
by Lucía Penalba-Sánchez, Gabriel Silva, Mark Crook-Rumsey, Alexander Sumich, Pedro Miguel Rodrigues, Patrícia Oliveira-Silva and Ignacio Cifre
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2811; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092811 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Understanding and classifying brain states as a function of sleep quality and age has important implications for developing lifestyle-based interventions involving sleep hygiene. Current studies use an algorithm that captures non-linear features of brain complexity to differentiate awake electroencephalography (EEG) states, as a [...] Read more.
Understanding and classifying brain states as a function of sleep quality and age has important implications for developing lifestyle-based interventions involving sleep hygiene. Current studies use an algorithm that captures non-linear features of brain complexity to differentiate awake electroencephalography (EEG) states, as a function of age and sleep quality. Fifty-eight participants were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory (PSQI) and awake resting state EEG. Groups were formed based on age and sleep quality (younger adults n = 24, mean age = 24.7 years, SD = 3.43, good sleepers n = 11; older adults n = 34, mean age = 72.87; SD = 4.18, good sleepers n = 9). Ten non-linear features were extracted from multiband EEG analysis to feed several classifiers followed by a leave-one-out cross-validation. Brain state complexity accurately predicted (i) age in good sleepers, with 75% mean accuracy (across all channels) for lower frequencies (alpha, theta, and delta) and 95% accuracy at specific channels (temporal, parietal); and (ii) sleep quality in older groups with moderate accuracy (70 and 72%) across sub-bands with some regions showing greater differences. It also differentiated younger good sleepers from older poor sleepers with 85% mean accuracy across all sub-bands, and 92% at specific channels. Lower accuracy levels (<50%) were achieved in predicting sleep quality in younger adults. The algorithm discriminated older vs. younger groups excellently and could be used to explore intragroup differences in older adults to predict sleep intervention efficiency depending on their brain complexity. Full article
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15 pages, 3664 KiB  
Article
Structure of Polysaccharide from Dendrobium nobile Lindl. and Its Mode of Action on TLR4 to Exert Immunomodulatory Effects
by Lian Li, Hang Chen, Guichun Huang, Yiyi Lv, Li Yao, Zhongxia Guo, Shuyi Qiu, Xiaodan Wang and Chaoyang Wei
Foods 2024, 13(9), 1356; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13091356 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Dendrobium nobile Lindl. polysaccharide (DNP1) showed good anti-inflammatory activity in our previous study. In this study, the structural characterization of DNP1 and its mode of action on TLR4 were investigated. Structural characterization suggested that DNP1 was a linear glucomannan composed of (1 → [...] Read more.
Dendrobium nobile Lindl. polysaccharide (DNP1) showed good anti-inflammatory activity in our previous study. In this study, the structural characterization of DNP1 and its mode of action on TLR4 were investigated. Structural characterization suggested that DNP1 was a linear glucomannan composed of (1 → 4)-β-Manp and (1 → 4)-β-Glcp residues, and the acetyl group was linked to the C-2 of Manp. The possible repeating structural units of DNP1 were [→4)-2-OAc-β-Manp-(1→]3 →4)-β-Glcp-(1→. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) binding test results showed that DNP1 did not bind directly to TLR4. The TLR4 and MD2 receptor blocking tests confirmed that DNP1 needs MD2 and TLR4 to participate in its anti-inflammatory effect. The binding energy of DNP1 to TLR4-MD2 was −7.9 kcal/mol, indicating that DNP1 could bind to the TLR4-MD2 complex stably. Therefore, it is concluded that DNP1 may play an immunomodulatory role by binding to the TLR4-MD2 complex and inhibiting the TLR4-MD2-mediated signaling pathway. Full article
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20 pages, 4145 KiB  
Article
Factor-Dependent Internal Ribosome Entry Site and -1 Programmed Frameshifting Signal in the Bemisia-Associated Dicistrovirus 2
by Yihang Chen, Subash Chapagain, Jodi Chien, Higor Sette Pereira, Trushar R. Patel, Alice K. Inoue-Nagata and Eric Jan
Viruses 2024, 16(5), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050695 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
The dicistrovirus intergenic (IGR) IRES uses the most streamlined translation initiation mechanism: the IRES recruits ribosomes directly without using protein factors and initiates translation from a non-AUG codon. Several subtypes of dicistroviruses IRES have been identified; typically, the IRESs adopt two -to three [...] Read more.
The dicistrovirus intergenic (IGR) IRES uses the most streamlined translation initiation mechanism: the IRES recruits ribosomes directly without using protein factors and initiates translation from a non-AUG codon. Several subtypes of dicistroviruses IRES have been identified; typically, the IRESs adopt two -to three overlapping pseudoknots with key stem-loop and unpaired regions that interact with specific domains of the ribosomal 40S and 60S subunits to direct translation. We previously predicted an atypical IGR IRES structure and a potential -1 programmed frameshift (-1 FS) signal within the genome of the whitefly Bemisia-associated dicistrovirus 2 (BaDV-2). Here, using bicistronic reporters, we demonstrate that the predicted BaDV-2 -1 FS signal can drive -1 frameshifting in vitro via a slippery sequence and a downstream stem-loop structure that would direct the translation of the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Moreover, the predicted BaDV-2 IGR can support IRES translation in vitro but does so through a mechanism that is not typical of known factorless dicistrovirus IGR IRES mechanisms. Using deletion and mutational analyses, the BaDV-2 IGR IRES is mapped within a 140-nucleotide element and initiates translation from an AUG codon. Moreover, the IRES does not bind directly to purified ribosomes and is sensitive to eIF2 and eIF4A inhibitors NSC1198983 and hippuristanol, respectively, indicating an IRES-mediated factor-dependent mechanism. Biophysical characterization suggests the BaDV-2 IGR IRES contains several stem-loops; however, mutational analysis suggests a model whereby the IRES is unstructured or adopts distinct conformations for translation initiation. In summary, we have provided evidence of the first -1 FS frameshifting signal and a novel factor-dependent IRES mechanism in this dicistrovirus family, thus highlighting the diversity of viral RNA-structure strategies to direct viral protein synthesis. Full article
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2 pages, 180 KiB  
Editorial
Methyl-Containing Pharmaceuticals
by Davide Illuminati and Anna Fantinati
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050563 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
This Special Issue, which focused on methyl-containing pharmaceuticals, collected different papers and reviews on this topic [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methyl-Containing Pharmaceuticals)
15 pages, 762 KiB  
Article
Resistance Mutation Patterns among HIV-1-Infected Children and Features of the Program for Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission in Vietnam’s Central Highlands and Southern Regions, 2017–2021
by Huynh Hoang Khanh Thu, Alexandr N. Schemelev, Yulia V. Ostankova, Diana E. Reingardt, Vladimir S. Davydenko, Nguyen Tuong Vi, Le Ngoc Tu, Ton Tran, Truong Thi Xuan Lien, Aleksandr V. Semenov and Areg A. Totolian
Viruses 2024, 16(5), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050696 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Vietnam Ministry of Health (MOH) has intensified efforts in its aim to eliminate AIDS by 2030. Expanding the program for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) is a significant step towards achieving this goal. However, there are still HIV-exposed children who do not [...] Read more.
The Vietnam Ministry of Health (MOH) has intensified efforts in its aim to eliminate AIDS by 2030. Expanding the program for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) is a significant step towards achieving this goal. However, there are still HIV-exposed children who do not have access to PMTCT services, and some who have participated in the program but still contracted HIV. This study focused on assessing the prevalence and profile of HIV mutations among children under 18 months of age who had recently tested positive for HIV, while gaining insights into the implementation of early infant diagnostic (EID) tests. Between 2017 and 2021, 3.43% of 5854 collected dry blood spot (DBS) specimens from Vietnam’s Central and Southern regions showed positive EID results. This study identified a high prevalence of resistance mutations in children, totaling 62.9% (95% CI: 53.5–72.3). The highest prevalence of mutations was observed for NNRTIs, with 57.1% (95% CI: 47.5–66.8). Common mutations included Y181C and K103N (NNRTI resistance), M184I/V (NRTI resistance), and no major mutations for PI. The percentage of children with any resistance mutation was significantly higher among those who received PMTCT interventions (69.2%; 95% CI: 50.5–92.6%) compared with those without PMTCT (45.0%; 95% CI: 26.7–71.1%) with χ2 = 6.06, p = 0.0138, and OR = 2.75 (95% CI: 1.13–6.74). Mutation profiles revealed that polymorphic mutations could be present regardless of whether PMTCT interventions were implemented or not. However, non-polymorphic drug resistance mutations were predominantly observed in children who received PMTCT measures. Regarding PMTCT program characteristics, this study highlights the issue of late access to HIV testing for both mothers and their infected children. Statistical differences were observed between PMTCT and non-PMTCT children. The proportion of late detection of HIV infection and breastfeeding rates were significantly higher among non-PMTCT children (p < 0.05). Comparative analysis between children with low viral load (≤200 copies/mL) and high viral load (>200 copies/mL) showed significant differences between the mothers’ current ART regimens (p = 0.029) and the ARV prophylaxis regimen for children (p = 0.016). These findings emphasize the need for comprehensive surveillance to assess the effectiveness of the PMTCT program, including potential transmission of HIV drug-resistance mutations from mothers to children in Vietnam. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV Reservoirs, Latency, and the Factors Responsible)
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20 pages, 20809 KiB  
Review
Gold Deposits Related to the Island Arc Formations and Ophiolitic Complexes of Eastern Cuba: A Review
by Jorge L. Costafreda, Domingo A. Martín, Jorge L. Costafreda-Velázquez and José Luis Parra
Minerals 2024, 14(5), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14050463 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Several gold deposits in the eastern region of Cuba are genetically related to the island arc- and the ophiolitic complex formation. These have been studied and exploited since the time of the Spanish colonization in the mid-sixteenth century. These deposits belong to the [...] Read more.
Several gold deposits in the eastern region of Cuba are genetically related to the island arc- and the ophiolitic complex formation. These have been studied and exploited since the time of the Spanish colonization in the mid-sixteenth century. These deposits belong to the Aguas Claras-Guajabales mineral field in the Holguín Province (Cuba) and lie in an elongated zone approximately 15 km in length. The object of this work is to make a methodical, detailed, and chronological review of the geological and mining work carried out in this region, as well as highlight the degree of the previously achieved studies. To realize this, an extensive bibliographic review of all available data, including published reports and articles, as well as unpublished material, was carried out. Moreover, ore mineralogy and petrography were reviewed by thin section analyses from samples from these deposits by petrographic and scanning electron microscopy. The results obtained from this study highlight that the gold mineralization in that area is closely linked to metasomatic processes produced by the circulation of hydrothermal fluids that affected the different volcanic and ultramafic rocks. This study shows that the highest gold contents observed are controlled by the contacts between the different host lithologies with high rheological contrasts. The presence of different alteration styles such as serpentinization, listvenitization, rodingitization, and propylitization have played a primary role in the deposition of gold during mineralization processes. This work could be a very useful exploration guide for future research in this region, as it provides a useful and practical compilation of the characteristics of the mineralization and alteration styles, as well as a precise indication of the spatial position, thicknesses, and contents of the gold-rich horizons. Full article
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11 pages, 743 KiB  
Article
Tribulus terrestris and Sport Performance: A Quantitative and Qualitative Evaluation of Its Advertisement and Availability via Online Shopping in Six Different Countries
by Juan F. Garcia, Jesús Seco-Calvo, Soledad Arribalzaga, Raquel Díez, Cristina Lopez, M. Nelida Fernandez, Juan J. Garcia, M. Jose Diez, Raul de la Puente, Matilde Sierra and Ana M. Sahagún
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1320; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091320 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Dietary supplements are commonly used among athletes, and the Internet may be an easy source of these products. Tribulus terrestris is an herbal supplement with multiple properties. Of interest to athletes are reports that its consumption can lead to muscle mass gain and [...] Read more.
Dietary supplements are commonly used among athletes, and the Internet may be an easy source of these products. Tribulus terrestris is an herbal supplement with multiple properties. Of interest to athletes are reports that its consumption can lead to muscle mass gain and a faster recovery process. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the availability of Tribulus terrestris via the Internet in six countries (Canada, Puerto Rico, Russia, Spain, Ukraine, and the United States of America) via a specifically designed computer program. The characteristics of the websites selling this substance, the country from which it can be purchased, the route of administration, and recommendations for its use were analyzed. The results of the study show that this supplement is marketed mainly in Russia, Ukraine, and Spain on many websites that are mostly dedicated to sports products. Just over half of the webpages (59.14%) identified only distribute this supplement within the same country. The main claims for its consumption refer to sports performance benefits, but there are also claims that it may improve male hormone levels and sexual function. Athletes should be encouraged to seek professional advice prior to ingesting this supplement to ensure that it is suitable for their specific training and sports objectives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise and Nutrition for Human Health)
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17 pages, 5581 KiB  
Article
Use of Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) in Water Chemistry Studies
by Georgios Katsouras, Elias Dimitriou, Sotirios Karavoltsos, Stylianos Samios, Aikaterini Sakellari, Angeliki Mentzafou, Nikolaos Tsalas and Michael Scoullos
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2809; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092809 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) equipped with integrated sensors are a tool valuable to several monitoring strategies, offering enhanced temporal and spatial coverage over specific timeframes, allowing for targeted examination of sites or events of interest. The elaboration of environmental monitoring programs has relied [...] Read more.
Unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) equipped with integrated sensors are a tool valuable to several monitoring strategies, offering enhanced temporal and spatial coverage over specific timeframes, allowing for targeted examination of sites or events of interest. The elaboration of environmental monitoring programs has relied so far on periodic spot sampling at specific locations, followed by laboratory analysis, aiming at the evaluation of water quality at a catchment scale. For this purpose, automatic telemetric stations for specific parameters have been installed by the Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters of Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (IMBRIW-HCMR) within several Greek rivers and lakes, providing continuous and temporal monitoring possibilities. In the present work, USVs were deployed by the Athens Water and Sewerage Company (EYDAP) as a cost-effective tool for the environmental monitoring of surface water bodies of interest, with emphasis on the spatial fluctuations of chlorophyll α, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen and pH, observed in Koumoundourou Lake and the rivers Acheloos, Asopos and Kifissos. The effectiveness of an innovative heavy metal (HM) system installed in the USV for the in situ measurements of copper and lead was also evaluated herewith. The results obtained demonstrate the advantages of USVs, setting the base for their application in real-time monitoring of chemical parameters including metals. Simultaneously, the requirements for accuracy and sensitivity improvement of HM sensors were noted, in order to permit full exploitation of USVs’ capacities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)
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16 pages, 4972 KiB  
Article
Research on Intelligent Identification Algorithm for Steel Wire Rope Damage Based on Residual Network
by Jialin Han, Yiqing Zhang, Zesen Feng and Ling Zhao
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3753; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093753 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
As a load-bearing tool, steel wire rope plays an important role in industrial production. Therefore, diagnosing the fracture and damage of steel wire ropes is of great significance for ensuring their safe operation. However, the detection and identification of wire rope breakage damage [...] Read more.
As a load-bearing tool, steel wire rope plays an important role in industrial production. Therefore, diagnosing the fracture and damage of steel wire ropes is of great significance for ensuring their safe operation. However, the detection and identification of wire rope breakage damage mainly focus on identifying external damage characteristics, while research on inspecting internal breakage damage is still relatively limited. To address the challenge, an intelligent detecting method is proposed in this paper for diagnosing internal wire breakage damage, and it introduces residual modules to enhance the network’s feature extraction ability. Firstly, time–frequency analysis techniques are used to convert the extracted one-dimensional magnetic flux leakage (MFL) signal into a two-dimensional time–frequency map. Secondly, the focus of this article is on constructing a residual network to identify the internal damage accurately with the features of the time–frequency map of the MFL signal being automatically extracted. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method in identifying broken wires is verified through comparative experiments on detecting broken wires in steel wire ropes. Three common recognition methods, the backpropagation (BP) neural network, the support vector machine (SVM), and the convolutional neural network (CNN), are used as comparisons. The experimental results show that the residual network recognition method can effectively identify internal and external wire breakage faults in steel wire ropes, which is of great significance for achieving quantitative detection of steel wire ropes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
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17 pages, 478 KiB  
Review
Balancing Benefits and Risks: A Literature Review on Hypersensitivity Reactions to Human G-CSF (Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor)
by Roxana Silvia Bumbăcea, Mihaela Ruxandra Udrea, Selda Ali and Violeta Claudia Bojincă
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4807; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094807 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a granulopoietic growth factor used in the treatment of neutropenia following chemotherapy, myeloablative treatment, or healthy donors preparing for allogeneic transplantation. Few hypersensitivity reactions (HRs) have been reported, and its true prevalence is unknown. We aimed to [...] Read more.
Human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a granulopoietic growth factor used in the treatment of neutropenia following chemotherapy, myeloablative treatment, or healthy donors preparing for allogeneic transplantation. Few hypersensitivity reactions (HRs) have been reported, and its true prevalence is unknown. We aimed to systematically characterize G-CSF-induced HRs while including a comprehensive list of adverse reactions. We reviewed articles published before January 2024 by searching in the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases using a combination of the keywords listed, selected the ones needed, and extracted relevant data. The search resulted in 68 entries, 17 relevant to our study and 7 others found from manually searching bibliographic sources. A total of 40 cases of G-CSF-induced HR were described and classified as immediate (29) or delayed (11). Immediate ones were mostly caused by filgrastim (13 minimum), with at least 9 being grade 5 on the WAO anaphylaxis scale. Delayed reactions were mostly maculopapular exanthemas and allowed for the continuation of G-CSF. Reactions after first exposure frequently appeared and were present in at least 11 of the 40 cases. Only five desensitization protocols have been found concerning the topic at hand in the analyzed data. We believe this study brings to light the research interest in this topic that could benefit from further exploration, and propose regular updating to include the most recently published evidence. Full article
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16 pages, 305 KiB  
Article
The Danger of the Interpretation of Facts: Legal Uncertainty in the Spanish Saga Cases
by Nataša Rajković
Laws 2024, 13(3), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/laws13030027 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Enhancing legal certainty is one of the main values that are sought in the investor–state dispute settlement system. The importance of legal certainty is strengthened in the case of renewable energy investments, which are in the global public interest, long-term and capital-intensive up-front. [...] Read more.
Enhancing legal certainty is one of the main values that are sought in the investor–state dispute settlement system. The importance of legal certainty is strengthened in the case of renewable energy investments, which are in the global public interest, long-term and capital-intensive up-front. The first part of the paper presents the importance of legal certainty in investment arbitration in general, its limits and its importance in the context of the green energy transition. In addition, it addresses the special features of renewable energy investments. The second part of the paper analyses from the perspective of legal certainty the Spanish renewable energy cases initiated under the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), which deal with similar factual and legal issues. In this respect, the paper presents the varying weight tribunals gave to the important facts that led them further to conclude whether Spain breached the fair and equitable treatment standard, and if so, whether the investor was entitled to full compensation or a reasonable rate of return. In addition, it presents different approaches to perceiving the stability provision of Article 10 (1) of the ECT. The paper concludes that it remains uncertain to what extent RE investors will be protected under the ECT’s stability condition in the case of fundamental or small-scale changes. Although one group of arbitrators may argue that the fundamental change triggers per se a breach of a stability condition, others may argue that for the breach to be established, the host state’s measures must be arbitrary, unreasonable or discriminatory. Moreover, the threat to legal certainty might not only be the vague provisions of the ECT but also the significant discretion tribunals have towards the interpretation of facts, leading to different outcomes. Indeed, it is at the discretion of arbitrators to consider whether the timing of investment, presence of evidence indicating possible regulatory changes, and the reasonable rate of return prescribed in Spain’s domestic law will be relevant or irrelevant. Full article
21 pages, 826 KiB  
Review
Heart Failure Management through Telehealth: Expanding Care and Connecting Hearts
by Andrea Tedeschi, Matteo Palazzini, Giancarlo Trimarchi, Nicolina Conti, Francesco Di Spigno, Piero Gentile, Luciana D’Angelo, Andrea Garascia, Enrico Ammirati, Nuccia Morici and Daniela Aschieri
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2592; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092592 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of morbidity worldwide, imposing a significant burden on deaths, hospitalizations, and health costs. Anticipating patients’ deterioration is a cornerstone of HF treatment: preventing congestion and end organ damage while titrating HF therapies is the aim of [...] Read more.
Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of morbidity worldwide, imposing a significant burden on deaths, hospitalizations, and health costs. Anticipating patients’ deterioration is a cornerstone of HF treatment: preventing congestion and end organ damage while titrating HF therapies is the aim of the majority of clinical trials. Anyway, real-life medicine struggles with resource optimization, often reducing the chances of providing a patient-tailored follow-up. Telehealth holds the potential to drive substantial qualitative improvement in clinical practice through the development of patient-centered care, facilitating resource optimization, leading to decreased outpatient visits, hospitalizations, and lengths of hospital stays. Different technologies are rising to offer the best possible care to many subsets of patients, facing any stage of HF, and challenging extreme scenarios such as heart transplantation and ventricular assist devices. This article aims to thoroughly examine the potential advantages and obstacles presented by both existing and emerging telehealth technologies, including artificial intelligence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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17 pages, 4827 KiB  
Communication
Coverage Performance of Non-Lambertian Underwater Wireless Optical Communications for 6G Internet of Things
by Jupeng Ding, Chih-Lin I, Jintao Wang and Jian Song
Inventions 2024, 9(3), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions9030049 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
In medium- and short-range underwater application scenarios, thanks to the superior performance in transmission bandwidth, link latency, and security, underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) is growing to be a promising complement to the mature underwater acoustic communication technique. In order to extend the [...] Read more.
In medium- and short-range underwater application scenarios, thanks to the superior performance in transmission bandwidth, link latency, and security, underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) is growing to be a promising complement to the mature underwater acoustic communication technique. In order to extend the future 6G Internet of Things (IOT) to various challenging and valuable underwater scenarios, the underwater spatial coverage and transmission performance has been actively discussed in typical seawater environments. However, almost all current works focus on underwater scenarios including light-emitting diode (LED) transmitters with well-known Lambertian optical beams and fail to characterize the scenarios adopting LED transmitters with distinctive non-Lambertian beam patterns. For addressing this limitation, in this article, the coverage performance of non-Lambertian UWOC for 6G is analyzed and illustrated. Furthermore, the switchable optical beam configuration scheme is proposed and estimated for UWOC. Numerical results illustrate that, compared with about 15.42 dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) fluctuation amplitude for UWOC with baseline Lambertian optical beam configuration, the corresponding SNR fluctuation amplitudes of UWOC based with two typical non-Lambertian optical beams are 8.71 dB and 24.60 dB. Furthermore, once the receiver depth is increased to 6.0 m, the SNR fluctuation amplitude for the above three UWOC coverage with distinct beam configuration could be reduced to 5.61 dB, 1.58 dB, and 10.33 dB, respectively. Full article
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24 pages, 3824 KiB  
Article
Safety of Cyclists in Poland in the Context of European Road Traffic
by Mariusz Pyra
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3682; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093682 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
The growing interest in cycling as a means of urban transport has led to an increased focus on cyclist safety as a key aspect of urban planning and transport policy. Simulation studies conducted by the International Transport Forum have demonstrated that reductions in [...] Read more.
The growing interest in cycling as a means of urban transport has led to an increased focus on cyclist safety as a key aspect of urban planning and transport policy. Simulation studies conducted by the International Transport Forum have demonstrated that reductions in CO2 and other pollutants can be achieved in the context of urban transport, thus realising the goals of decarbonising road transport. The spread of modal transport in cities is a potential reality within the next decade. Bicycles play a significant role in this context. This article presents an analysis of data on accidents involving cyclists. National and international data were analysed to identify the main risk factors. The aim of the paper is to analyse the risk to cyclists with an attempt to identify and map the five biggest risks to cyclists in urban traffic. The aim of the research is to raise awareness of cyclist safety issues and to identify directions for further action to reduce accidents and improve overall road safety. The results of the conducted analyses indicate that the risk for cyclists in road traffic (including urban traffic) has been on a noticeable downward trend over the past five to ten years. This trend allows for the mapping of the most significant types/risks in cycling in urban environments, thereby enabling the implementation of risk management strategies based on the method of risk mapping. Full article
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21 pages, 2501 KiB  
Article
Association of Combined PFOA, PFOS, Metals and Allostatic Load on Hepatic Disease Risk
by Mary Balogun and Emmanuel Obeng-Gyasi
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 516-536; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020031 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study utilizes the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 data to explore the relationship between exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (specifically perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), metals lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd), allostatic load, and hepatic disease [...] Read more.
This study utilizes the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 data to explore the relationship between exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (specifically perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), metals lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd), allostatic load, and hepatic disease markers, including the fatty liver index a measure of the likelihood of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin. The paper identified significant associations and interaction effects by employing descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation analysis, linear regression, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). Descriptive statistics highlight sex-specific differences in contaminant levels. Spearman’s analysis underscores strong correlations among metals and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Linear regression reveals significant impacts of specific contaminants on AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin levels, adjusting for age and alcohol consumption. BKMR results further elucidate the complex, potentially synergistic relationships between these environmental exposures and the likelihood of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, offering nuanced insights into their combined effects on liver health. The findings emphasize the intricate dynamics of environmental exposures on hepatic function, advocating for targeted public health interventions. Full article
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22 pages, 1654 KiB  
Review
Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Elbow in Overhead Athletes: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
by Andro Matković, Thomas Ferenc, Damjan Dimnjaković, Nikolina Jurjević, Vinko Vidjak and Branka R. Matković
Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090916 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow mainly occurs in overhead athletes (OHAs). This narrative review aimed to comprehensively analyze the epidemiological data, etiological factors, clinical and imaging features, treatment options, and outcomes of OHAs with the diagnosis of elbow OCD. A literature search [...] Read more.
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow mainly occurs in overhead athletes (OHAs). This narrative review aimed to comprehensively analyze the epidemiological data, etiological factors, clinical and imaging features, treatment options, and outcomes of OHAs with the diagnosis of elbow OCD. A literature search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Individuals with elbow OCD were usually 10–17 years of age with incidence and prevalence varying between studies, depending on the sport activity of the patients. The etiology of OCD lesions is multifactorial, and the main causes are believed to be repetitive trauma, the biomechanical disproportion of the articular surfaces, poor capitellar vascular supply, and inflammatory and genetic factors. Athletes usually presented with elbow pain and mechanical symptoms. The mainstay for the diagnosis of elbow OCD is MRI. The treatment of elbow OCD lesions should be conservative in cases of stable lesions, while various types of surgical treatment are suggested in unstable lesions, depending mainly on the size and localization of the lesion. The awareness of medical practitioners and the timely diagnosis of OCD lesions in OHAs are key to favorable outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Bone and Joint Imaging—2nd Edition)
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22 pages, 3897 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Climatic Factors on Temporal Mosquito Distribution and Population Dynamics in an Area Targeted for Sterile Insect Technique Pilot Trials
by Theresa Taona Mazarire, Leanne Lobb, Solomon Wakshom Newete and Givemore Munhenga
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050558 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
It is widely accepted that climate affects the mosquito life history traits; however, its precise role in determining mosquito distribution and population dynamics is not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the influence of various climatic factors on the temporal distribution of [...] Read more.
It is widely accepted that climate affects the mosquito life history traits; however, its precise role in determining mosquito distribution and population dynamics is not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the influence of various climatic factors on the temporal distribution of Anopheles arabiensis populations in Mamfene, South Africa between 2014 and 2019. Time series analysis, wavelet analysis, cross-correlation analysis, and regression model combined with the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model were utilized to assess the relationship between climatic factors and An. arabiensis population density. In total 3826 adult An. arabiensis collected was used for the analysis. ARIMA (0, 1, 2) (0, 0, 1)12 models closely described the trends observed in An. arabiensis population density and distribution. The wavelet coherence and time-lagged correlation analysis showed positive correlations between An. arabiensis population density and temperature (r = 0.537 ), humidity (r = 0.495) and rainfall (r = 0.298) whilst wind showed negative correlations (r = −0.466). The regression model showed that temperature (p = 0.00119), rainfall (p = 0.0436), and humidity (p = 0.0441) as significant predictors for forecasting An. arabiensis abundance. The extended ARIMA model (AIC = 102.08) was a better fit for predicting An. arabiensis abundance compared to the basic model. Anopheles arabiensis still remains the predominant malaria vector in the study area and climate variables were found to have varying effects on the distribution and abundance of An. arabiensis. This necessitates other complementary vector control strategies such as the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) which involves releasing sterile males into the environment to reduce mosquito populations. This requires timely mosquito and climate information to precisely target releases and enhance the effectiveness of the program, consequently reducing the malaria risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Climate Change and Public Health)
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14 pages, 1780 KiB  
Review
Role of Calcitriol and Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) Gene Polymorphisms in Alzheimer’s Disease
by Soon Pyo Jeong, Niti Sharma and Seong Soo A. An
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4806; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094806 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by amyloid beta (Aβ) buildup and neuronal degeneration. An association between low serum vitamin D levels and an increased risk of AD has been reported in several epidemiological studies. Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol) is the active form of vitamin D, [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by amyloid beta (Aβ) buildup and neuronal degeneration. An association between low serum vitamin D levels and an increased risk of AD has been reported in several epidemiological studies. Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol) is the active form of vitamin D, and is generated in the kidney and many other tissues/organs, including the brain. It is a steroid hormone that regulates important functions like calcium/phosphorous levels, bone mineralization, and immunomodulation, indicating its broader systemic significance. In addition, calcitriol confers neuroprotection by mitigating oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, promoting the clearance of Aβ, myelin formation, neurogenesis, neurotransmission, and autophagy. The receptors to which calcitriol binds (vitamin D receptors; VDRs) to exert its effects are distributed over many organs and tissues, representing other significant roles of calcitriol beyond sustaining bone health. The biological effects of calcitriol are manifested through genomic (classical) and non-genomic actions through different pathways. The first is a slow genomic effect involving nuclear VDR directly affecting gene transcription. The association of AD with VDR gene polymorphisms relies on the changes in vitamin D consumption, which lowers VDR expression, protein stability, and binding affinity. It leads to the altered expression of genes involved in the neuroprotective effects of calcitriol. This review summarizes the neuroprotective mechanism of calcitriol and the role of VDR polymorphisms in AD, and might help develop potential therapeutic strategies and markers for AD in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin D and Vitamin D Binding Protein in Health and Disease 3.0)
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13 pages, 4118 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Akkermansia muciniphila Isolation and Cultivation: Insights into Gut Microbiota Composition and Potential Growth Promoters in a Chinese Cohort
by Xiangyu Meng, Chen Xv, Jiaping Lv, Shuwen Zhang, Changlu Ma and Xiaoyang Pang
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 881; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050881 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
The study aims to analyze the composition of the gut microbiota in Chinese individuals using metagenomic sequencing technology, with a particular focus on the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila (Akk). To improve the efficiency of Akk isolation and identification accuracy, modifications were made to [...] Read more.
The study aims to analyze the composition of the gut microbiota in Chinese individuals using metagenomic sequencing technology, with a particular focus on the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila (Akk). To improve the efficiency of Akk isolation and identification accuracy, modifications were made to the enrichment culture medium and 16S rRNA universal primers. Additionally, potential growth-promoting factors that stimulate Akk growth were explored through in vitro screening. The research results revealed that the abundance of Akk in Chinese fecal samples ranged from 0.004% to 0.4%. During optimization, a type of animal protein peptide significantly enhanced the enrichment efficiency of Akk, resulting in the isolation of three Akk strains from 14 fecal samples. Furthermore, 17 different growth-promoting factors were compared, and four factors, including galactose, sialic acid, lactose, and chitosan, were identified as significantly promoting Akk growth. Through orthogonal experiments, the optimal ratio of these four growth-promoting factors was determined to be 1:1:2:1. After adding 1.25% of this growth-promoting factor combination to the standard culture medium, Akk was cultivated at 37° for 36 h, achieving an OD600nm value of 1.169, thus realizing efficient proliferation and optimized cultivation of Akk. This study provides important clues for a deeper understanding of the gut microbiota composition in Chinese individuals, while also offering effective methods for the isolation and cultivation of Akk, laying the groundwork for its functional and application research in the human body. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Gut Microbiota on Human Health and Disease)
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14 pages, 2032 KiB  
Article
Molecular Design Using Selected Concentration Effects in Optically Activated Fluorescent Matrices
by Aneta Lewkowicz, Katarzyna Walczewska-Szewc, Martyna Czarnomska, Emilia Gruszczyńska, Mattia Pierpaoli, Robert Bogdanowicz and Zygmunt Gryczyński
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4804; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094804 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Molecular physics plays a pivotal role in various fields, including medicine, pharmaceuticals, and broader industrial applications. This study aims to enhance the methods for producing specific optically active materials with distinct spectroscopic properties at the molecular level, which are crucial for these sectors, [...] Read more.
Molecular physics plays a pivotal role in various fields, including medicine, pharmaceuticals, and broader industrial applications. This study aims to enhance the methods for producing specific optically active materials with distinct spectroscopic properties at the molecular level, which are crucial for these sectors, while prioritizing human safety in both production and application. Forensic science, a significant socio-economic field, often employs hazardous substances in analyzing friction ridges on porous surfaces, posing safety concerns. In response, we formulated novel, non-toxic procedures for examining paper evidence, particularly thermal papers. Our laboratory model utilizes a polyvinyl alcohol polymer as a rigid matrix to emulate the thermal paper’s environment, enabling precise control over the spectroscopic characteristics of 1,8-diazafluoro-9-one (DFO). We identified and analyzed the cyclodimer 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one (DAK DFO), which is a non-toxic and biocompatible alternative for revealing forensic marks. The reagents used to preserve fingerprints were optimized for their effectiveness and stability. Using stationary absorption and emission spectroscopy, along with time-resolved emission studies, we verified the spectroscopic attributes of the new structures under deliberate aggregation conditions. Raman spectroscopy and quantum mechanical computations substantiated the cyclodimer’s configuration. The investigation provides robust scientific endorsement for the novel compound and its structural diversity, influenced by the solvatochromic sensitivity of the DFO precursor. Our approach to monitoring aggregation processes signifies a substantial shift in synthetic research paradigms, leveraging simple chemistry to yield an innovative contribution to forensic science methodologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Polymeric Materials: From Synthesis to Applications)
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17 pages, 36116 KiB  
Article
3D Shape Measurement of Aeroengine Blade Based on Fringe Projection Profilometer Improved by Multi-Layer Concentric Ring Calibration
by Ze Chen, Yuhang Ju, Chuanzhi Sun, Yinchu Wang, Yongmeng Liu and Jiubin Tan
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2810; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092810 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
The precision requirements for aeroengine blade machining are exceedingly stringent. This study aims to improve the accuracy of existing aeroengine blade measurement methods while achieving comprehensive measurement. Therefore, this study proposes a new concentric ring calibration method and designs a multi-layer concentric ring [...] Read more.
The precision requirements for aeroengine blade machining are exceedingly stringent. This study aims to improve the accuracy of existing aeroengine blade measurement methods while achieving comprehensive measurement. Therefore, this study proposes a new concentric ring calibration method and designs a multi-layer concentric ring calibration plate. The effectiveness of this calibration method was verified through actual testing of standard ball gauges. Compared with the checkerboard-grid calibration method, the average deviation of the multilayer concentric ring calibration method for measuring the center distance of the standard sphere is 0.02352, which improves the measurement accuracy by 3–4 times. On the basis of multi-layer concentric ring calibration, this study builds a fringe projection profiler based on the three-frequency twelve-step phase shift method. Compared with the CMM, the average deviation of the blade chord length measured by this solution is 0.064, which meets the measurement index requirements of aeroengine fan blades. Full article
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