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20 pages, 330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring New Aspects of Corporate Dividend Policy: Case of an Emerging Nation

by Biswajit Ghose, Pankaj Kumar Tyagi, Parikshit Sharma, Nivaj Gogoi, Premendra Kumar Singh, Yeshi Ngima, Asokan Vasudevan and Kiran Gope

J. Risk Financial Manag. 2025, 18(5), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm18050232 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

The present study focuses on how various firm characteristics influence their dividend payout policies. The study finds empirical evidence with regard to primarily two aspects of corporate dividend decisions—dividend increase and decrease, whose exploration is inadequate in the past literature. The random effect [...] Read more.

The present study focuses on how various firm characteristics influence their dividend payout policies. The study finds empirical evidence with regard to primarily two aspects of corporate dividend decisions—dividend increase and decrease, whose exploration is inadequate in the past literature. The random effect logistic regression has been considered in order to analyze the panel dataset from 2001–2002 to 2021–2022 including 3739 listed Indian firms. The empirical models are formatted based on the relevant dividend-related theories in the Indian context such as the residual theory, transaction cost theory, signalling theory, etc. Further, additional tests are conducted regarding the robustness of the reported results. The empirical results document that firm size, profitability, promoter holdings, cash holdings, and life cycle have a favourable influence on the propensity of both increasing and decreasing dividend payouts. In contrast, earnings volatility, leverage, and free cash flow reduce firms’ tendency to increase and decrease dividend payments. These results indicate that higher liquidity and ownership concentration provide firms with greater financial flexibility to adjust their dividend policies as per their prevailing opportunities. The findings of the study offer insightful information about how to arrange dividend policies with firm-specific traits which will be helpful for managers and investors to make better decisions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Dividend Payout Policy)

20 pages, 894 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Fiscal and Monetary Policy Coordination Using a Nash Equilibrium: A Case Study of Hungary

by Sara Salimi, Eszter Kazinczy, Tibor Tatay and Mehran Amini

Mathematics 2025, 13(9), 1427; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13091427 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Effective coordination between fiscal and monetary policy is crucial for macroeconomic stability, yet achieving it presents significant challenges due to differing objectives and institutional setups. This study evaluates the strategic interaction between fiscal and monetary authorities in Hungary from 2013 to 2023, employing [...] Read more.

Effective coordination between fiscal and monetary policy is crucial for macroeconomic stability, yet achieving it presents significant challenges due to differing objectives and institutional setups. This study evaluates the strategic interaction between fiscal and monetary authorities in Hungary from 2013 to 2023, employing the Nash equilibrium framework under the assumption of non-cooperative behavior. By modeling the authorities as independent players optimizing distinct payoff functions based on key economic indicators (interest rates, government spending, inflation, output gap, fiscal deficit, and public debt), the analysis estimates the best response strategies and computes the resulting Nash equilibrium. The key findings reveal persistent deviations between actual policies and the computed equilibrium strategies. Specifically, actual fiscal policy was consistently more expansionary (average actual deficit −2.6% to 7.6% GDP vs. equilibrium recommendations ranging from 8.5% surplus to −3.0% deficit) than the Nash equilibrium indicated, particularly during periods of economic growth. Monetary policy often lagged in equilibrium recommendations, maintaining low interest rates (e.g., 0.9% actual vs. 11.5% equilibrium in 2019) before implementing sharp increases (13% actual vs. approx. 3.5–3.8% equilibrium in 2022–2023) that significantly overshot the equilibrium. These misalignments underscore potential suboptimal outcomes arising from independent policymaking, contributing to increased public debt and heightened inflationary pressures in the Hungarian context. This study highlights the potential benefits of aligning policies closer to mutually consistent strategies, suggesting that improved coordination frameworks could enhance macroeconomic stability, offering insights relevant to Hungary and similar economies. Full article

12 pages, 345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Path Out: Using Video Games to Reduce Prejudice Towards Refugees

by Liam Cross, Gray Atherton and Chris Stiff

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050583 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Historically, research on video games has centred on their potentially adverse effects, though more recently, work has started to explore the benefits. Here, we investigate whether playing a video game portraying a refugee’s plight in escaping war-torn Syria could affect implicit and explicit [...] Read more.

Historically, research on video games has centred on their potentially adverse effects, though more recently, work has started to explore the benefits. Here, we investigate whether playing a video game portraying a refugee’s plight in escaping war-torn Syria could affect implicit and explicit attitudes towards that social group. We show that after 30 min of game play embodying a Syrian refugee, participants showed reduced prejudicial attitudes and increased empathy towards Syrian refugees compared to those playing a mechanically similar but contextually unrelated game. While implicit attitudes followed the same direction, this difference was not statistically significant. Potential theoretical underpinnings of these findings, including perspective taking, embodiment, and contact perspectives for prejudice reduction, are discussed. Full article

17 pages, 4460 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Identification of HD-Zip Family Genes in Coix lacryma-jobi L. and Their Potential Roles in Response to Abiotic Stress

by Yongle Wang, Hongjuan Wang, Xianyong Lu, Chun Yu, Benli Jiang, Jiabao Zhu and Yujiao Wang

Plants 2025, 14(9), 1318; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14091318 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

HD-ZIP (homeodomain-leucine zipper ) transcription factors play a crucial role in plant growth, development, and stress response; however, the HD-Zip gene family of Coix lacryma-jobi L. has not been identified. In this study, a total of 40 HD-Zip gene family members were identified [...] Read more.

HD-ZIP (homeodomain-leucine zipper ) transcription factors play a crucial role in plant growth, development, and stress response; however, the HD-Zip gene family of Coix lacryma-jobi L. has not been identified. In this study, a total of 40 HD-Zip gene family members were identified in the genome of Coix. According to phylogenetic analysis, the Coix HD-Zip gene was divided into four subfamilies (I–IV), of which the HD-Zip I subfamily can be further divided into five branches. Moreover, HD-ZIP members of the same subfamily usually share similar gene structures and conserved motifs. The transcription factor binding site enrichment analysis showed that there are many motifs for binding with transcription factors such as ERF (Ethylene responsive factor), MYB(v-myb avian myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog), and ARF (Auxin Response Factor) in the promoter region of the ClHDZ genes. The results of qPCR (Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) and expression profile analysis showed that ClHD-Zip I genes showed different levels of expression under different stress treatments. Among them, ClHDZ4 was located in the nucleus, and its expression pattern was significantly upregulated under salt, drought, and high-temperature stress. In addition, ectopic expression of ClHDZ4 enhanced the growth of yeast strains under drought, salt, or high-temperature treatment. In summary, these results laid a foundation for further research on the resistance function of the Coix HD-Zip gene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Genetic Responses of Crops to Abiotic Stress)

15 pages, 474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity and Breeding System of the Pestiferous Subterranean Termite Reticulitermes flaviceps Across Shaanxi and Sichuan Provinces

by Zahid Khan, Haroon, Yu-Feng Meng and Lian-Xi Xing

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(5), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47050304 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

The genetic diversity of 22 colonies of the termite Reticulitermes flaviceps was analyzed in Shaanxi and Sichuan provinces. It was found that the genetic diversity in both regions was quite similar. However, the distribution of genetic variations within the colonies was uneven. The [...] Read more.

The genetic diversity of 22 colonies of the termite Reticulitermes flaviceps was analyzed in Shaanxi and Sichuan provinces. It was found that the genetic diversity in both regions was quite similar. However, the distribution of genetic variations within the colonies was uneven. The termite colonies showed moderately high genetic diversity, a positive sign for adaptability and survival. The study also revealed a favorable mix of different genetic types within the colonies, indicating a healthy level of genetic variation. However, there was limited genetic exchange among different colonies, leading to noticeable genetic differences. When looking at the genetic structures, the colonies in Shaanxi were quite similar; those in Sichuan showed more variation, and some Sichuan colonies had identical genetic structures to those in Shaanxi. Regarding breeding systems, the colonies in Shaanxi were mainly extended families, meaning they had multiple generations living together. In contrast, most colonies in Sichuan were simple families consisting of just one generation; this difference might be due to the natural, less disturbed environments in Shaanxi, which support more extensive and complex colonies. On the other hand, the urban environments in Sichuan, with their intricate cement structures, made it difficult for termite colonies to expand. Overall, the study highlights the genetic diversity and breeding strategies of R. flaviceps in different environments, providing insights into their adaptability and survival mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics and Systems Biology)

25 pages, 11829 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Engineered Magnetic-Functionalized Carbon Xerogels for Sustainable Arsenic Removal: Bridging Adsorption Efficiency with Regenerability

by Sasirot Khamkure, Prócoro Gamero-Melo, Audberto Reyes-Rosas, Alejandro Zermeño-González, José Luis Álvarez-Cruz, Elim Albiter Escobar, Gabriela Eleonora Moeller-Chávez and Victoria Bustos-Terrones

Gels 2025, 11(5), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11050323 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study developed iron-oxide-functionalized carbon xerogels for enhanced arsenic adsorption to mitigate global water contamination. The composites were synthesized by integrating magnetite nanoparticles (15–20 nm) into a resorcinol–formaldehyde matrix via sol–gel polycondensation, followed by controlled pyrolysis. Key parameters—magnetite/resorcinol ratios (0.03–0.07), carbonization conditions (temperature, [...] Read more.

This study developed iron-oxide-functionalized carbon xerogels for enhanced arsenic adsorption to mitigate global water contamination. The composites were synthesized by integrating magnetite nanoparticles (15–20 nm) into a resorcinol–formaldehyde matrix via sol–gel polycondensation, followed by controlled pyrolysis. Key parameters—magnetite/resorcinol ratios (0.03–0.07), carbonization conditions (temperature, heating rate, duration), and H₂O₂-induced surface modification—were optimized to maximize adsorption performance. Characterization (SEM/EDX, XRD, FTIR, BET, TEM) confirmed uniform magnetite dispersion (~5 wt%) and revealed that pyrolysis at 850 °C enhanced porosity (378.8 m²/g surface area) and refined surface chemistry. Adsorption kinetics followed Elovich (R² = 0.9396) and Power Function (R² = 0.9443) models, indicating chemisorption dominance. Response Surface Methodology optimized desorption parameters using a Central Composite Design with three factors and two center points with repetition. A kinetic study of As(V) desorption from carbon xerogels was conducted, yielding optimal conditions: 1.0 M KOH, 160 rpm agitation, and 90 min contact time. The adsorbent retained >88% regeneration efficiency over four cycles, demonstrating robust reusability. Synergistic effects of magnetite incorporation, tailored pyrolysis, and H₂O₂ modification significantly improved arsenic selectivity and capacity in complex matrices, while enabling magnetic recovery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Gel Technology in Food Industry and Environmental Engineering (2nd Edition))

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15 pages, 1059 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Organic Acid Modification on the Pore Structure and Fractal Features of 1/3 Coking Coal

by Jiafeng Fan and Feng Cai

Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(5), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9050283 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

The acidification modification of coal seams is a significant technical measure for transforming coalbed methane reservoirs and enhancing the permeability of coal seams, thereby improving the extractability of coalbed methane. However, the acids currently used in fracturing fluids are predominantly inorganic acids, which [...] Read more.

The acidification modification of coal seams is a significant technical measure for transforming coalbed methane reservoirs and enhancing the permeability of coal seams, thereby improving the extractability of coalbed methane. However, the acids currently used in fracturing fluids are predominantly inorganic acids, which are highly corrosive and can contaminate groundwater reservoirs. In contrast, organic acids are not only significantly less corrosive than inorganic acids but also readily bind with the coal matrix. Some organic acids even exhibit complexing and flocculating effects, thus avoiding groundwater contamination. This study focuses on the 1/3 coking coal from the Guqiao Coal Mine of Huainan Mining Group Co., Ltd., in China. It systematically investigates the fractal characteristics and chemical structure of coal samples before and after pore modification using four organic acids (acetic acid, glycolic acid, oxalic acid, and citric acid) and compares their effects with those of hydrochloric acid solutions at the same concentration. Following treatment with organic acids, the coal samples exhibit an increase in surface fractal dimension, a reduction in spatial fractal dimension, a decline in micropore volume proportion, and a rise in the proportions of transitional and mesopore volumes, and the structure of the hydroxyl group and oxygen-containing functional group decreased. This indicates that treating coal samples with organic acids enhances their pore structure and chemical structure. A comparative analysis reveals that hydrochloric acid is more effective than acetic acid in modifying coal pores, while oxalic acid and citric acid outperform hydrochloric acid, and citric acid shows the best results. The findings provide essential theoretical support for organic acidification modification technology in coalbed methane reservoirs and hydraulic fracturing techniques for coalbed methane extraction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Fractal Analysis in Underground Engineering)

33 pages, 3118 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preschoolers Mark Focus Types Through Multimodal Prominence: Further Evidence for the Precursor Role of Gestures

by Sara Coego, Núria Esteve-Gibert and Pilar Prieto

Languages 2025, 10(5), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages10050092 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

The present cross-sectional study assessed the role of multimodal cues in marking focus types during early childhood, focusing on prosodic prominence, gesture presence, and gestural prominence. A total of 116 Catalan-speaking three-, four- and five-year-olds participated in a semi-controlled interactive task eliciting words [...] Read more.

The present cross-sectional study assessed the role of multimodal cues in marking focus types during early childhood, focusing on prosodic prominence, gesture presence, and gestural prominence. A total of 116 Catalan-speaking three-, four- and five-year-olds participated in a semi-controlled interactive task eliciting words in three focus conditions: information, contrastive, and corrective. The data were coded manually using holistic assessments for all three measures. The results indicated, first, that children’s prosodic and gestural behavior was key in marking corrective focus. A significant tendency to use more gestures and increase both prosodic and gestural prominence was found in the corrective focus condition across the three age groups. Second, a developmental difference emerged in the acquisition of contrastive focus. Three-year-olds relied solely on gesture presence to encode contrastive focus, being unable to differentiate it prosodically from information focus. In turn, four- and five-year-olds used both gestures and prosody, with contrastive focus not only receiving more gestures than information focus but also increased prosodic prominence. This finding shows that gesture presence is a precursor to prosodic prominence in marking contrastive focus in Catalan, thus supporting the idea that gesture production can bootstrap the expression of focus type distinctions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Acquisition of Prosody)

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19 pages, 4990 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Practice-Based Failure Modes and Root Cause Analysis of Cone Beam CT-Guided Online Adaptive Radiotherapy of the Pelvis

by Dandan Zheng, Michael Cummings, Hong Zhang, Alexander Podgorsak, Fiona Li, Olga Dona Lemus, Matthew Webster, Neil Joyce, Erika Hagenbach, Kevin Bylund, Haoming Qiu, Matthew Pacella, Yuhchyau Chen and Sean Tanny

Cancers 2025, 17(9), 1462; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17091462 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)-guided online adaptive radiotherapy (oART) represents a significant advancement in radiation oncology, enabling on-couch plan adaptation to account for daily anatomical changes. While this automation improves precision and workflow efficiency, it also introduces new failure modes (FMs) and workflow [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)-guided online adaptive radiotherapy (oART) represents a significant advancement in radiation oncology, enabling on-couch plan adaptation to account for daily anatomical changes. While this automation improves precision and workflow efficiency, it also introduces new failure modes (FMs) and workflow irregularities. This study aimed to systematically evaluate the clinical and technical challenges associated with CBCT-guided oART implementation. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed over 1000 CBCT-guided oART sessions for pelvic malignancies performed at our institution. A multidisciplinary team conducted a comprehensive review to identify and classify FMs, followed by root cause analysis (RCA) to evaluate their impact on treatment safety, efficacy, and workflow robustness. Results: In addition to session-terminating FMs, we identified recurring failure modes across three major domains: (1) system-driven issues, such as rigid target localization and software-driven irregularities; (2) patient-driven challenges, including interfractional and intrafractional anatomical variations; and (3) treatment planning and execution failures, including excessive dose hotspots from field-of-view limitations. The system’s closed-loop automation, while streamlining processes, introduced rigid constraints in plan adaptation and fallback plan execution, occasionally leading to unintended dose discrepancies. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive clinical practice-based evaluation of CBCT-guided oART, highlighting system-specific failure modes and their implications. Addressing these challenges requires structured quality assurance processes, multidisciplinary collaboration, and continuous workflow refinement. Our findings contribute to the development of safer and more robust adaptive radiotherapy platforms and clinical workflows. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Approaches in Radiotherapy for Cancer)

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21 pages, 1174 KiB

Open AccessReview

Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Malnutrition: Effects of Nutrition on Immune Function in Infants and Young Children

by R. J. Joost van Neerven

Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1469; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091469 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

The function of the immune system is not only dependent on factors like genetics, age, the environment, and exposure to infectious agents and allergens but also on our microbiota and our diet. It has been known for centuries that food can influence health [...] Read more.

The function of the immune system is not only dependent on factors like genetics, age, the environment, and exposure to infectious agents and allergens but also on our microbiota and our diet. It has been known for centuries that food can influence health and vulnerability to infection. This is especially true for infants, young children, and the elderly. This review focuses on how nutrition can support immune function from gestation to school-aged children. Immune support begins during pregnancy by the mother’s diet and transfer of nutritional components as well as antibodies to her fetus. After birth, breastfeeding is of crucial importance for immune development as well as for the development of the intestinal microbiota of an infant. If breastfeeding is not possible, early-life formulas are an alternative. These can provide several of the functionalities of breastmilk, as well as the key nutrients a child needs. New foods are introduced during and after weaning, and after this period, children switch to consuming a normal diet. However, due to circumstances, children can be malnourished. This can range from severe protein/energy malnutrition to micronutrient deficiencies and obesity, all of which can affect the function of the immune system. This narrative review describes the immune challenges in early life, explores breastfeeding and early life nutrition, and provides mechanistic insight into the relative contribution of macronutrients, micronutrients and other immunomodulatory food components that can support immune function in early life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Management in Neonatal Health)

17 pages, 7041 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Prolonged Application of Organic Fertilizers Increases the Quality and Yield of Tea Crops

by Cuiting Dai, Fen Xiang, Hongyan Liu, Lingyun Zhou and Wei Li

Plants 2025, 14(9), 1317; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14091317 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

The substitution of chemical nitrogen (N) with organic fertilizers in tea plantations has been widely recognized as a strategy to maintain tea yield and improve soil quality, ensuring the sustainability of tea production systems. However, the effects of long-term organic-fertilizer substitution on tea [...] Read more.

The substitution of chemical nitrogen (N) with organic fertilizers in tea plantations has been widely recognized as a strategy to maintain tea yield and improve soil quality, ensuring the sustainability of tea production systems. However, the effects of long-term organic-fertilizer substitution on tea yield and quality, soil properties, and bacterial communities have yet to be fully investigated, and the underlying mechanisms affecting tea yield and quality remain unclear. We conducted a six-year-long field experiment in a tea plantation to investigate the relationships among soil properties, bacterial communities, and the yield and quality of tea. Four treatments were compared: no fertilizer (NF), conventional fertilization (CF), 50% chemical N fertilizer substituted with a microbial organic fertilizer (MF), and 50% chemical N fertilizer substituted with a special organic fertilizer for tea (OF). The results showed that the substitution of organic fertilizers increased the spring tea yield by 6.4%~8.5% and the amino acid content of tea by up to 7.8%, while reducing tea polyphenol levels by 1.2–4.4% compared to CF. The soil quality improved significantly, with total phosphorus rising by 20.0% (MF) and 22.9% (OF), and soil organic matter increasing notably in the MF treatment group. The soil quality index (SQI) improved by 38.6% in the OF treatment group compared to the CF treatment group. Organic treatments reshaped bacterial communities, with the OF boosting Acidobacteriota (36.4%) and Planctomycetota (444.4%), and the MF enriching Actinobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes. Bacterial diversity (Shannon and Chao1 indices) correlated positively with the soil organic matter, total nitrogen, and pH. Changes in microbial communities were driven by pH, soil organic matter, and nitrogen levels. The partial least squares path model analysis confirmed that fertilization indirectly influenced tea yield (67% variance explained) and quality (79% variance explained) via soil properties and bacterial communities. These findings highlight the potential of organic-fertilizer substitution to promote sustainable tea production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Management for Better Crop Production)

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17 pages, 2257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Early and Sustained Clinical Benefits of Benralizumab in Severe Eosinophilic Asthma: Findings from the ORBE II Study

by Pilar Ausín, María Eugenia Navarrete-Rouco, Luis Carazo, Jose Luis Sanchez-Trincado, Elisa Luzon, Javier Nuevo, Mónica Santín, Jesús Sánchez and Alicia Padilla-Galo

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(9), 3011; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14093011 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Benralizumab has demonstrated rapid efficacy in treating severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA). This study aims to characterize early responses to benralizumab, the patient features observed in those with early responses, and the potential patient features that could predict them, and it also evaluates [...] Read more.

Introduction: Benralizumab has demonstrated rapid efficacy in treating severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA). This study aims to characterize early responses to benralizumab, the patient features observed in those with early responses, and the potential patient features that could predict them, and it also evaluates whether these improvements are sustained during a one-year follow-up (FUP) in clinical practice. Methods: This analysis was conducted using the ORBE II study database. ORBE II is an observational, retrospective study that included uncontrolled SEA adult patients treated with benralizumab according to routine clinical practice in Spain. We analysed patients with available data on the asthma control test (ACT) at baseline and within the first 120 days after benralizumab initiation, identifying ACT “Early Super-Responders” (ACT-ESR) as patients with a ≥9 point-improvement in the ACT score or reaching an absolute score of ≥24. Likewise, we assessed patients with available data on the pre-BD FEV₁ during the same study periods, defining those with a pre-BD FEV₁ increment of ≥230 mL as FEV₁-ESR patients. Clinical outcomes were described up to 1 year of FUP. Results: A total of 45 and 65 patients with data for ACT and FEV₁, respectively, during the first 120 days of treatment were analysed. Of those, 55.5% and 58.5% of patients were categorized as ACT-ESR and FEV₁-ESR, respectively. At baseline, both groups showed high T2 inflammation markers and a high prevalence of comorbidities (chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis: 56% and 50%; gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: 24% and 40%, respectively). Poor asthma control (ACT < 20) was observed at baseline in 96% of ACT-ESR, while impaired lung function (pre-BD FEV₁ < 80%) was present in 71.7% of FEV₁-ESR. Oral corticosteroid (OCS) dependency affected 25% and 30% of ACT-ESR and FEV₁-ESR, respectively. The early gains observed in ACT-ESR and FEV₁-ESR were sustained up to 1 year of FUP, with 90.5% and 66.7% of patients achieving a super-response (zero exacerbations and no OCS use) and 92.0% and 71.1% meeting clinical remission criteria (zero exacerbations, no OCS use, ACT ≥ 20 and pre-BD FEV₁ increment of ≥100 mL), respectively. Conclusions: Benralizumab provides early benefits for SEA patients in clinical practice, with more than half achieving early super-responses in both ACT score and lung function. These improvements were sustained over a 1-year FUP, resulting in high rates of clinical remission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)

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17 pages, 1138 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unravelling the Genotype of the Apical Variant of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in a Swedish Cohort

by Antheia Kissopoulou, Rada Ellegård, Eva Ingemarsdotter Fernlund, Jan-Erik Karlsson, Henrik Green and Cecilia Gunnarsson

Genes 2025, 16(5), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16050494 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ApHCM) is a distinct variant of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Few studies have focused on the genetic determinants of this subtype. We aimed to investigate the genetic basis of apical hypertrophy in a Swedish cohort. Methods–Results: Longitudinal data on 58 [...] Read more.

Background: Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ApHCM) is a distinct variant of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Few studies have focused on the genetic determinants of this subtype. We aimed to investigate the genetic basis of apical hypertrophy in a Swedish cohort. Methods–Results: Longitudinal data on 58 unrelated index patients with ApHCM from the Southeast healthcare region in Sweden from 2010 to 2024 were assessed retrospectively. Additionally, the original raw data from genetic testing were re-evaluated using AI-based Emedgene software. Patients were 47 ± 14 years old, and 60% males. A total of 72.4% had the pure apical type and the remaining had the mixed phenotype, dominant distal. In the cohort, 50/58 (86.2%) underwent genetic testing, of whom 7/50 (14%) were considered genotype positive for a pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant, mainly in MYH7 (43%) and in the non-sarcomeric ALPK3 gene (28.6%). A re-evaluation of the original data from genetic testing identified a previously unreported variant in the skeletal muscle α-actin (ACTA1) gene. Overall, 21 of 58 patients (36.2%) had HCM-related events during their disease course: 10% had a stroke, and 12% had heart failure. Atrial fibrillation was present in 41.4% and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia occurred in 29.3% of the patients. Apical aneurysm was observed in 17.2% of cases. Patients with a positive genotype were more likely to have a positive family history of HCM compared to those with a negative genotype (p = 0.020). Conclusions: In ApHCM, a positive genotype was found less frequently compared to classic HCM. Only 14% of patients with ApHCM were found to be genotype positive, indicating that apical hypertrophy represents a genetically unique population with low risk of mortality. Nevertheless, patients with ApHCM faced higher rates of atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmias, and apical aneurysms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases)

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33 pages, 59816 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolates Obtained from Intensive Care Unit Patients in 2024: General Characterization, Prophages, Depolymerases and Esterases of Phage Origin

by Nadezhda V. Kolupaeva, Lyubov V. Kolupaeva, Peter V. Evseev, Yuriy P. Skryabin, Elena B. Lazareva, Tatyana V. Chernenkaya, Nikolay V. Volozhantsev and Anastasia V. Popova

Viruses 2025, 17(5), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17050623 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae are significant nosocomial pathogens worldwide. In this study, the general characterization of A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae isolates obtained from the blood of intensive care unit patients of the multidisciplinary scientific and practical center of emergency medicine from [...] Read more.

Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae are significant nosocomial pathogens worldwide. In this study, the general characterization of A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae isolates obtained from the blood of intensive care unit patients of the multidisciplinary scientific and practical center of emergency medicine from January to September 2024 was performed. Prophage regions and prophage-derived tailspike polysaccharide-depolymerizing or -modifying enzymes within these isolates were identified and characterized in detail using a refined workflow. The protocol, encompassing a comprehensive survey of all predicted bacterial proteins, revealed an average of 6.0 prophage regions per Acinetobacter baumannii genome, including regions putatively derived from filamentous phages, and 4.8 prophage regions per Klebsiella pneumoniae isolate. Analysis of these putative prophage regions indicated that most were related to previously isolated, yet unclassified, temperate phages infecting A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae. However, certain identified sequences likely originated from phages representing novel groups comparatively distant from known phages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Viruses)

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22 pages, 2903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Auxiliary Particle Flow Track-Before-Detect Algorithm for Marine Neighboring Weak Targets

by Fan Zhang and Chang Liu

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(9), 1547; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17091547 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Detection and tracking of marine weak targets can be effectively solved by track-before-detect (TBD) algorithms based on particle filtering. However, these algorithms are susceptible to influence from neighboring targets, leading to potential issues like misassociation and tracking failure. In this paper, an auxiliary [...] Read more.

Detection and tracking of marine weak targets can be effectively solved by track-before-detect (TBD) algorithms based on particle filtering. However, these algorithms are susceptible to influence from neighboring targets, leading to potential issues like misassociation and tracking failure. In this paper, an auxiliary particle flow track-before-detect algorithm designed for marine neighboring weak targets is proposed which can effectively track marine neighboring weak targets under long-tail sea clutter. Firstly, marine neighboring targets are modeled by the generalized Pareto model, and an offline lookup table is utilized to obtain a non-closed solution, decreasing calculation cost. Subsequently, prediction is employed to classify targets, and measurement information is iteratively used to determine the sequence of target updates, effectively suppressing influence from neighboring targets. Finally, particles with higher measurement energy are chosen, and the Geodesic particle flow is employed to guide the particles toward better importance distribution, which enhances the accuracy of target trajectory estimation. Simulation experiments indicate that compared with track-before-detect algorithms based on parallel partition (PP) and auxiliary parallel partition (APP), the proposed algorithm shows an increase of 43.1% and 25.8% in detection probability at 6 dB, and a reduction of 76.6% and 66.2% in Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). Detection ability and trajectory estimation performance are effectively improved in the simulation, and excellent tracking performance is also confirmed in real clutter experiments. Full article

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23 pages, 317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Site Refinement Study of Taking Back Control Together, an Intervention to Support Parents Confronted with Childhood Cancer

by Nikita Guarascio, Ariane Levesque, David Ogez, Valérie Marcil, Daniel Curnier, Véronique Bélanger, Émélie Rondeau, Katherine Péloquin, Caroline Laverdière, Raoul Santiago, Josée Brossard, Stéphanie Vairy, Serge Sultan and the TBCT-Québec Team

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(5), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32050253 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

A child’s cancer diagnosis profoundly impacts the psychological well-being of parents. To alleviate parental distress, researchers developed Taking Back Control Together (TBCT), a manualized six-session program targeting individual problem-solving skills and dyadic coping. The current study aimed to refine TBCT for future uptake [...] Read more.

A child’s cancer diagnosis profoundly impacts the psychological well-being of parents. To alleviate parental distress, researchers developed Taking Back Control Together (TBCT), a manualized six-session program targeting individual problem-solving skills and dyadic coping. The current study aimed to refine TBCT for future uptake across different sites. We invited potential interventionists and local stakeholders from three pediatric oncology centers (CHU Sainte-Justine, CHU de Sherbrooke, and CHU de Québec) to join the refinement team. The final working team comprised 26 professionals, including social workers, psychologists, researchers, coordinators, and parent-partners. The study included eight 50- to 90-min discussion sessions designed to stimulate conversation and facilitate the exchange of ideas and perspectives. We used framework analysis to identify and describe patterns within the qualitative data. The data were organized into three categories: (1) intervention description, which addresses changes in personnel, modes of delivery, and tailoring to accommodate different family structures; (2) content modifications, which include language simplification and visual enhancements; and (3) factors influencing TBCT’s future uptake, such as accessibility, participant satisfaction, clinician compensation, and flexibility in program delivery. The direct output of this research is a refined program with an updated manual, tools, and format adapted for use in different sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Childhood, Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology)

13 pages, 2308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Guinea Pig Manure and Mineral Fertilizers Enhance the Yield and Nutritional Quality of Hard Yellow Maize on the Peruvian Coast

by Emilee Calero-Rios, Miryam Borbor-Ponce, Sphyros Lastra and Richard Solórzano

Agrochemicals 2025, 4(2), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/agrochemicals4020006 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Sustainable fertilization using local resources such as manure is crucial for soil health. This study evaluated the potential of guinea pig manure to replace mineral fertilizers in hard yellow maize (hybrid INIA 619) under Peruvian coastal conditions. A split-plot design tested four doses [...] Read more.

Sustainable fertilization using local resources such as manure is crucial for soil health. This study evaluated the potential of guinea pig manure to replace mineral fertilizers in hard yellow maize (hybrid INIA 619) under Peruvian coastal conditions. A split-plot design tested four doses of guinea pig manure (0, 2, 5, 10 t⋅ha⁻¹) and four levels of mineral fertilization (0%, 50%, 75%, 100%). The study assessed plant height, ear characteristics, yield, and nutritional quality parameters. The results indicated that 100% mineral fertilization led to the highest plant height (229.67 cm) and grain weight (141.8 g). Yields of 9.19 and 9.08 t⋅ha⁻¹ were achieved with 5 and 10 t⋅ha⁻¹ of manure, while 50% mineral fertilization gave 8.8 t⋅ha⁻¹, similar to the full dose (8.7 t⋅ha⁻¹). The protein content was highest with 10 t⋅ha⁻¹ of manure combined with mineral fertilization. However, no significant differences were found between the 50%, 75%, and 100% mineral fertilizer doses. In conclusion, applying guinea pig manure improved nutrient use efficiency, yield, and grain protein quality in maize, reducing the need for mineral fertilizers by up to 50%. This provides a sustainable fertilization strategy for agricultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Soil Health and Nutrient Management for Crop Productivity)

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16 pages, 498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can Unrealistic Optimism Among Consumers Precipitate Economic Recessions?

by Hyun-Soo Doh and Jiahao Pan

Risks 2025, 13(5), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/risks13050083 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

This paper examines the macroeconomic implications of unrealistic optimism, a psychological bias that has been largely overlooked in economic models. While traditional models often link optimism to speculative bubbles and excessive risk taking, this study challenges that view by demonstrating that unrealistic optimism [...] Read more.

This paper examines the macroeconomic implications of unrealistic optimism, a psychological bias that has been largely overlooked in economic models. While traditional models often link optimism to speculative bubbles and excessive risk taking, this study challenges that view by demonstrating that unrealistic optimism may rather accelerate recessions. Specifically, we develop a model in which consumers, under the influence of unrealistic optimism, believe that negative aggregate shocks will affect others but not themselves. This misjudgment leads to a premature fall in output prices, reducing production and triggering recessions. Additionally, we show that government intervention, when optimally timed, can mitigate the adverse effects of unrealistic optimism, offering important policy implications for stabilizing economies. By highlighting the possibility of optimism-induced downturns, this paper provides new insights into behavioral macroeconomics and offers a novel perspective on policy design. Full article

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15 pages, 10381 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Photocatalytic Response of Flash-Lamp-Annealed Titanium Oxide Films Produced by Oblique-Angle Deposition

by Raúl Gago, Slawomir Prucnal, Francisco Javier Palomares, Leopoldo Álvarez-Fraga, Ana Castellanos-Aliaga and David G. Calatayud

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(9), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15090662 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

We report the photocatalytic (PC) response of titanium oxide (TiO_x) films grown by reactive DC magnetron sputtering under oblique-angle-deposition (OAD) and subjected to post-deposition flash-lamp-annealing (FLA). Under ballistic growth conditions, OAD yields TiO_x films with either compact or inclined columnar [...] Read more.

We report the photocatalytic (PC) response of titanium oxide (TiO_x) films grown by reactive DC magnetron sputtering under oblique-angle-deposition (OAD) and subjected to post-deposition flash-lamp-annealing (FLA). Under ballistic growth conditions, OAD yields TiO_x films with either compact or inclined columnar structure as the deposition incidence angle (α) with respect to the substrate normal varies from zero to grazing. On the one hand, films produced for α ≤ 45° display a compact and opaque structure comprising the formation of nanocrystalline cubic titanium monoxide (c-TiO) phase. On the other hand, films grown at larger α (≥60°) display tilted columns with amorphous structure, yielding highly porous films and an increased transparency for α > 75°. For TiO_x films grown at large α, FLA induces phase transformation to nanocrystalline anatase from the amorphous state. In contrast to as-grown samples, FLA samples display PC activity as assessed by bleaching of methyl orange dye. The best PC performance is attained for an intermediate situation (α = 60–75°) between compact and columnar structures. The obtained photoactivity is discussed in terms of the different microstructures obtained by OAD and posterior phase formation upon FLA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Glancing Angle Deposition and Related Nanostructures)

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37 pages, 2555 KiB

Open AccessReview

Modeling of Conventional Heat Pipes with Capillary Wicks: A Review

by Roberta Caruana and Manfredo Guilizzoni

Energies 2025, 18(9), 2213; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18092213 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Conventional heat pipes (CHPs) with capillary wicks are fundamental in various engineering applications due to their exceptional heat transfer efficiency and minimal temperature gradients. Despite the recent advancements in heat pipe modeling, existing reviews predominantly emphasize loop or pulsating heat pipes, neglecting the [...] Read more.

Conventional heat pipes (CHPs) with capillary wicks are fundamental in various engineering applications due to their exceptional heat transfer efficiency and minimal temperature gradients. Despite the recent advancements in heat pipe modeling, existing reviews predominantly emphasize loop or pulsating heat pipes, neglecting the extensive application and design challenges associated with CHPs. This review aims to address this lack by providing a comprehensive analysis of existing modeling techniques for CHPs, with a specific focus on their methodological innovations, validation strategies, and limitations, in order to outline a structured classification of models and provide useful suggestions for future research. The main findings of this work reveal a predominance of numerical lumped parameter models, which balance simplicity and computational efficiency, but often oversimplify complex phenomena. In fact, although numerical 2D and 3D models could offer greater accuracy at higher computational costs, they often share similar limitations with lumped parameter models. Additionally, some crucial aspects, including gravitational effects, real gas behavior in vapor modeling, activation effects, and operating limits, remain underexplored. Therefore, future research should address these gaps, to enhance the applicability of CHPs across different fields and operating conditions. In particular, an integrated approach is recommended, combining physics-based models with data-driven techniques, and supported by a robust and systematic experimental validation strategy, to ensure the reliability and generality of the developed models. Such modeling efforts are expected to guide the development of more effective and reliable heat pipe designs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section J: Thermal Management)

22 pages, 1675 KiB

Open AccessReview

Plasma Spraying of W Coatings for Nuclear Fusion Applications: Advancements and Challenges

by Ekaterina Pakhomova, Alessandra Palombi and Alessandra Varone

Crystals 2025, 15(5), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15050408 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

The selection of a suitable plasma-facing material (PFM) that must protect the divertor, cooling systems, and structural components is an important challenge in the design of advanced fusion reactors and requires careful consideration. Material degradation due to melting and evaporation may lead to [...] Read more.

The selection of a suitable plasma-facing material (PFM) that must protect the divertor, cooling systems, and structural components is an important challenge in the design of advanced fusion reactors and requires careful consideration. Material degradation due to melting and evaporation may lead to plasma contamination, which must be strictly avoided. Among the candidate materials, tungsten (W) is the most promising because of its thermo-mechanical and physical properties, which allow it to endure repeated exposure to extremely harsh conditions within the reactor. The plasma spraying (PS) technique is gaining increasing interest for the deposition of tungsten (W) coatings to protect heat sink materials, due to its relatively low cost, high deposition rates, and capability to coat complex-shaped surfaces and fix damaged coatings in situ. This review aims to provide a systematic assessment of tungsten (W) coatings produced by PS techniques, evaluating their suitability as PFMs. It discusses W-based materials, plasma spraying technologies, the role of the interface in joining W coating and metallic substrates such as copper alloys and steels, and the main issues related to coating surface erosion under steady-state and transient heat loads associated with advanced fusion reactor operation modes and off-normal events. Quantitative data available in the literature, such as porosity, oxygen content, thermal conductivity of the coatings, residual stresses accumulated in the coating–substrate interface, surface temperature, and material loss following heat load events, were summarized and compared to bulk W ones. The results demonstrate that, following optimization of the fabrication process, PS-W coatings exhibit excellent performance. In addition, previously mentioned advantages of PS technology make PS-W coatings an attractive alternative for PFM fabrication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Surface Engineering Materials: Characterization and Properties (2nd Edition))

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18 pages, 6043 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Corrugated Fins on Flow and Heat Transfer Performance in Medium-Deep Coaxial Underground Heat Exchangers

by Yan Shi, Chengcheng Liu, Hongxu Chen, Yaoshuai Yue and Mingqi Li

Energies 2025, 18(9), 2212; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18092212 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

To enhance the efficient development of geothermal energy, this study investigates the heat transfer enhancement mechanisms in medium-depth coaxial underground heat exchangers (CUHEs) integrated with corrugated fins, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Nine distinct corrugated fin geometries were modeled, and the streamlines, [...] Read more.

To enhance the efficient development of geothermal energy, this study investigates the heat transfer enhancement mechanisms in medium-depth coaxial underground heat exchangers (CUHEs) integrated with corrugated fins, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Nine distinct corrugated fin geometries were modeled, and the streamlines, velocity fields, temperature fields, and turbulent kinetic energy were analyzed across Reynolds numbers (Re) ranging from 12,000 to 42,000. The results demonstrate that corrugated fins significantly promote fluid turbulence and mixing, thereby augmenting convective heat transfer. Compared to smooth inner tubes, the Nusselt number (Nu) is enhanced by a factor of 1.43–2.19, while the friction factor (f) increases by a factor of 2.94–6.79. The performance evaluation criterion (PEC) improves with increasing fin width and decreasing fin spacing. The optimal configuration, featuring a fin width of 15 mm, a spacing of 60 mm, and a thickness of 15 mm, achieves a maximum PEC value of 1.34 at Re = 12,000, indicating a substantial improvement in heat transfer performance within acceptable pressure drop limits. This research innovatively explores the performance enhancement of CUHEs at high Re, systematically elucidates the influence of geometric parameters on heat transfer and flow resistance, and employs the PEC index to optimize the structural design. This provides significant theoretical support for the efficient engineering application of CUHEs in geothermal utilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section J1: Heat and Mass Transfer)

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16 pages, 4631 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Differentiation in Red and Green Noctiluca scintillans in Jakarta Bay, Indonesia

by Muhammad Izzat Nugraha, Goh Nishitani, Akira Ishikawa, Sutanto Hadi, Waka Sato-Okoshi and Beginer Subhan

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 866; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050866 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Marine dinoflagellate Noctiluca scintillans occurs in two forms, red and green, that overlap in distribution across the Arabian Sea and Southeast Asian coastal waters, particularly in Indonesia. However, limited genetic data on Indonesian N. scintillans cast uncertainty on their taxonomic status. In this [...] Read more.

Marine dinoflagellate Noctiluca scintillans occurs in two forms, red and green, that overlap in distribution across the Arabian Sea and Southeast Asian coastal waters, particularly in Indonesia. However, limited genetic data on Indonesian N. scintillans cast uncertainty on their taxonomic status. In this study, we introduce the first 28S PCR primer set specifically designed for Noctiluca to enable sequence analysis. The Indonesian red-type N. scintillans (RNS) sequences show considerable divergence from other documented populations, suggesting a potentially adapted population in Jakarta Bay. Similarly, the RNS in Indonesia differ genetically from co-occurring green-type N. scintillans (GNS). Morphological differences were also observed between Indonesian and Japanese RNS, with Indonesian cells exhibiting a smaller size and rougher surface, in contrast to the larger size and smoother surface observed in Japanese specimens. Full article

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16 pages, 13352 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hypercapnia Increases Influenza A Virus Infection of Bronchial Epithelial Cells by Augmenting Cellular Cholesterol via mTOR and Akt

by Fei Chen, Aiko Matsuda, Peter H. S. Sporn and S. Marina Casalino-Matsuda

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(9), 4133; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26094133 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Hypercapnia, the elevation of CO₂ in blood and tissue, is a risk factor for mortality in patients with severe lung disease and pulmonary infections. We previously showed that hypercapnia increases viral replication and mortality in mice infected with influenza A virus (IAV). [...] Read more.

Hypercapnia, the elevation of CO₂ in blood and tissue, is a risk factor for mortality in patients with severe lung disease and pulmonary infections. We previously showed that hypercapnia increases viral replication and mortality in mice infected with influenza A virus (IAV). Elevated CO₂ also augmented cholesterol content and pseudo-SARS-CoV-2 entry in bronchial epithelial cells. Interestingly, cellular cholesterol facilitates IAV uptake, replication, assembly, and egress from cells. Here, we report that hypercapnia increases viral protein expression in airway epithelium of mice infected with IAV. Elevated CO₂ also enhanced IAV adhesion and internalization, viral protein expression, and viral replication in bronchial epithelial cells. Hypercapnia increased the expression and activation of the transcription factor sterol-regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2), resulting in elevated expression of cholesterol synthesis enzymes, decreased expression of a cholesterol efflux transporter, and augmented cellular cholesterol. Moreover, reducing cellular cholesterol with an SREBP2 inhibitor or statins blocked hypercapnia-induced increases in viral adhesion and internalization, viral protein expression, and IAV replication. Inhibitors of mTOR and Akt also blocked the effect of hypercapnia on viral growth. Our findings suggest that targeting cholesterol synthesis and/or mTOR/Akt signaling may hold promise for reducing susceptibility to influenza infection in patients with advanced lung disease and hypercapnia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Hypercapnia)

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25 pages, 105571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Localizations of Laminin Chains Suggest Their Multifaceted Functions in Mouse Tooth Development

by Tian Liang, Hong Zhang, Yuanyuan Hu, Mansi Solanki, Chuhua Zhang, Takako Sasaki, Charles E. Smith, Jan C.-C. Hu and James P. Simmer

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(9), 4134; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26094134 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

The human laminin family is composed of five α, four β, and three γ chains. Laminins are heterotrimers of α, β, and γ chains. Laminins play critical roles during organogenesis, mostly as basement membrane components. The expression of all and the localization of [...] Read more.

The human laminin family is composed of five α, four β, and three γ chains. Laminins are heterotrimers of α, β, and γ chains. Laminins play critical roles during organogenesis, mostly as basement membrane components. The expression of all and the localization of most laminin chains were characterized in mouse developing teeth. Primary laminin isoforms in basement membranes along the inner enamel epithelium before the secretory stage and outside of the outer enamel epithelium were laminins 111 (α1β1γ1) and 511. The mouse laminin α3 chain has two variants, α3A and α3B. Although a basement membrane structure is absent, laminin 3A32 was localized along the secretory surface of the secretory stage ameloblast Tomes’ processes. Laminin 3A32 was localized along the atypical basement membrane of maturation stage ameloblasts and the specialized basement membrane of junctional epithelium facing the enamel surface. The endothelial basement membrane in the dental papilla and outside of the enamel organ contained laminins 411 and 511. Laminin 332 was detected in the extracellular matrix but not the basement membrane of the apical loop. Laminin 111 was localized in the extracellular matrix of the apical dental papilla without forming a visible basement membrane. These findings suggest the multifaceted functions of laminins in tooth development and set the foundation for functional investigations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Metabolism of Ameloblasts in Tooth Development)

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