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30 pages, 7092 KiB  
Article
Slotted Circular-Patch MIMO Antenna for 5G Applications at Sub-6 GHz
by Heba Ahmed, Allam M. Ameen, Ahmed Magdy, Ahmed Nasser and Mohammed Abo-Zahhad
Telecom 2025, 6(3), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/telecom6030053 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 155
Abstract
The swift advancement of fifth-generation (5G) wireless technology brings forth a range of enhancements to address the increasing demand for data, the proliferation of smart devices, and the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT). This highly interconnected communication environment necessitates using multiple-input [...] Read more.
The swift advancement of fifth-generation (5G) wireless technology brings forth a range of enhancements to address the increasing demand for data, the proliferation of smart devices, and the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT). This highly interconnected communication environment necessitates using multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems to achieve adequate channel capacity. In this article, a 2-port MIMO system using two flipped parallel 1 × 2 arrays and a 2-port MIMO system using two opposite 1 × 4 arrays designed and fabricated antennas for 5G wireless communication in the sub-6 GHz band, are presented, overcoming the limitations of previous designs in gain, radiation efficiency and MIMO performance. The designed and fabricated single-element antenna features a circular microstrip patch design based on ROGER 5880 (RT5880) substrate, which has a thickness of 1.57 mm, a permittivity of 2.2, and a tangential loss of 0.0009. The 2-port MIMO of two 1 × 2 arrays and the 2-port MIMO of two 1 × 4 arrays have overall dimensions of 132 × 66 × 1.57 mm3 and 140 × 132 × 1.57 mm3, respectively. The MIMO of two 1 × 2 arrays and MIMO of two 1 × 4 arrays encompass maximum gains of 8.3 dBi and 10.9 dBi, respectively, with maximum radiation efficiency reaching 95% and 97.46%. High MIMO performance outcomes are observed for both the MIMO of two 1 × 2 arrays and the MIMO of two 1 × 4 arrays, with the channel capacity loss (CCL) ˂ 0.4 bit/s/Hz and ˂0.3 bit/s/Hz, respectively, an envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) ˂ 0.006 and ˂0.003, respectively, directivity gain (DG) about 10 dB, and a total active reflection coefficient (TARC) under −10 dB, ensuring impedance matching and effective mutual coupling among neighboring parameters, which confirms their effectiveness for 5G applications. The three fabricated antennas were experimentally tested and implemented using the MIMO Application Framework version 19.5 for 5G systems, demonstrating operational effectiveness in 5G applications. Full article
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18 pages, 6082 KiB  
Article
Metamaterial-Enhanced MIMO Antenna for Multi-Operator ORAN Indoor Base Stations in 5G Sub-6 GHz Band
by Asad Ali Khan, Zhenyong Wang, Dezhi Li, Atef Aburas, Ali Ahmed and Abdulraheem Aburas
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7406; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137406 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 379
Abstract
This paper presents a novel, four-port, rectangular microstrip, inset-feed multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array, enhanced with metamaterials for improved gain and isolation, specifically designed for multi-operator 5G open radio access network (ORAN)-based indoor software-defined radio (SDR) applications. ORAN is an open-source interoperable [...] Read more.
This paper presents a novel, four-port, rectangular microstrip, inset-feed multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array, enhanced with metamaterials for improved gain and isolation, specifically designed for multi-operator 5G open radio access network (ORAN)-based indoor software-defined radio (SDR) applications. ORAN is an open-source interoperable framework for radio access networks (RANs), while SDR refers to a radio communication system where functions are implemented via software on a programmable platform. A 3 × 3 metamaterial (MTM) superstrate is placed above the MIMO antenna array to improve gain and reduce the mutual coupling of MIMO. The proposed MIMO antenna operates over a 300 MHz bandwidth (3.5–3.8 GHz), enabling shared infrastructure for multiple operators. The antenna’s dimensions are 75 × 75 × 18.2 mm3. The antenna possesses a reduced mutual coupling less than −30 dB and a 3.5 dB enhancement in gain with the help of a novel 3 × 3 MTM superstrate 15 mm above the radiating MIMO elements. A performance evaluation based on simulated results and lab measurements demonstrates the promising value of key MIMO metrics such as a low envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) < 0.002, diversity gain (DG) ~10 dB, total active reflection coefficient (TARC) < −10 dB, and channel capacity loss (CCL) < 0.2 bits/sec/Hz. Real-world testing of the proposed antenna for ORAN-based sub-6 GHz indoor wireless systems demonstrates a downlink throughput of approximately 200 Mbps, uplink throughput of 80 Mbps, and transmission delays below 80 ms. Additionally, a walk test in an indoor environment with a corresponding floor plan and reference signal received power (RSRP) measurements indicates that most of the coverage area achieves RSRP values exceeding −75 dBm, confirming its suitability for indoor applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Antennas and Propagation)
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32 pages, 5110 KiB  
Article
Using AI to Improve MIMO Antennas with SRR for 26 GHz by Analyzing Data
by Linda Chouikhi, Chaker Essid, Bassem Ben-Salah, Mongi Ben Moussa and Hedi Sakli
Electronics 2025, 14(13), 2529; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14132529 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1040
Abstract
This paper introduces a database-based design methodology aimed at optimizing a 26 GHz MIMO antenna system through machine learning (ML) techniques. The procedure is divided into two primary phases. Initially, a rectangular microstrip patch antenna is designed and enhanced using analytical models alongside [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a database-based design methodology aimed at optimizing a 26 GHz MIMO antenna system through machine learning (ML) techniques. The procedure is divided into two primary phases. Initially, a rectangular microstrip patch antenna is designed and enhanced using analytical models alongside ML algorithms that are trained on a detailed dataset of geometric parameters. This yields effective impedance matching (S11 < −45 dB) and a high gain (~6.64 dBi), which serve as the foundation for the MIMO structure. In the second phase, split ring resonator (SRR) configurations are integrated between the antenna elements to reduce mutual coupling. A specialized dataset, featuring varied dimensions of SRR, quantities of unit cells, and spatial placements, is utilized to train Random Forest models that forecast arrangements achieving optimal isolation (S21 < −40 dB) while maintaining low reflection losses. Additionally, a secondary dataset is constructed to investigate the best strategies for SRR placement, ensuring an optimal balance between isolation and return loss. The ultimate MIMO design is validated via comprehensive full-wave electromagnetic simulations and experimental measurements. The proposed system exhibits noteworthy performance enhancements, including an envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) < 0.005, diversity gain (DG) ≈ 9.99 dB, channel capacity loss (CCL) < 0.3 bits/s/Hz, total active reflection coefficient (TARC) < −30 dB, radiation efficiency exceeding 80%, and a maximum gain increase up to 10.22 dB. The close correlation between predicted and measured outcomes validates the effectiveness of the ML-driven approach in expediting antenna optimization for 5G and future applications. Full article
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23 pages, 17636 KiB  
Article
Highly Self-Isolated 12-MIMO Antenna Elements for 5G Mobile Applications
by Fayad Ghawbar, Jumadi A. Sukur, Huda A. Majid, Mohammed M. Bait-Suwailam, Hassan Al-Lawati, Abdulrahman A. G. Amer, Faiz A. Saparudin and Aimi S. A. Ghafar
Electronics 2025, 14(7), 1424; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14071424 - 1 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 631
Abstract
This research introduces a compact, self-isolated, 12 × 12 multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array designed for 5G mobile applications, operating within the 3.5 GHz band (3.42–3.62 GHz). The array consists of two distinct sets of six antenna elements—inverted U-shaped and T-shaped structures, each [...] Read more.
This research introduces a compact, self-isolated, 12 × 12 multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array designed for 5G mobile applications, operating within the 3.5 GHz band (3.42–3.62 GHz). The array consists of two distinct sets of six antenna elements—inverted U-shaped and T-shaped structures, each incorporating two circular and I-shaped strips—arranged symmetrically within the smartphone chassis. Each antenna element measures 15 × 5 mm2 (0.17λo × 0.06λo), where λo represents the free-space wavelength at 3.5 GHz. These elements function simultaneously as radiators and isolators, achieving high isolation levels. Additionally, the 12-MIMO antenna elements, designed to be self-isolated, are fabricated on both sides of two compact FR-4 substrates, positioned orthogonally to the ground substrate. This perpendicular configuration augments the self-isolating mechanism. The scattering parameters (s-parameter) findings demonstrate significant decoupling measuring under −19 dB across neighboring 12-MIMO elements. Moreover, the MIMO performance metrics, including channel capacity loss (CCL), total active reflection coefficient (TARC), diversity gain (DG), and the envelope correlation coefficient (ECC), are presented to be below 0.08 bits/s/Hz, −10 dB, 9.97 dB, and 0.006 consecutively. The significant isolation and performance metrics results notably indicate that the presented 12-MIMO antenna system is well-suited for 5G communication systems. Full article
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25 pages, 15082 KiB  
Article
A Sub-6GHz Two-Port Crescent MIMO Array Antenna for 5G Applications
by Heba Ahmed, Allam M. Ameen, Ahmed Magdy, Ahmed Nasser and Mohammed Abo-Zahhad
Electronics 2025, 14(3), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14030411 - 21 Jan 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1467
Abstract
The fifth generation of wireless communication (5G) technology is becoming more innovative with the increasing need for high data rates because of the incremental rapidity of mobile data growth. In 5G systems, enhancing device-to-device communication, ultra-low latency (1 ms), outstanding dependability, significant flexibility, [...] Read more.
The fifth generation of wireless communication (5G) technology is becoming more innovative with the increasing need for high data rates because of the incremental rapidity of mobile data growth. In 5G systems, enhancing device-to-device communication, ultra-low latency (1 ms), outstanding dependability, significant flexibility, and data throughput (up to 20 Gbps) is considered one of the most essential factors for wireless networks. To meet these objectives, a sub-6 5G wideband multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) array microstrip antenna for 5G Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) applications on hotspot devices has been proposed in this research. The 1 × 4 MIMO array radiating element antenna with a partial ground proposed in this research complies with the 5G application standard set out by the Federal Communications Commission. The planned antenna configuration consists of a hollow, regular circular stub patch antenna shaped like a crescent with a rectangular defect at the top of the patch. The suggested structure is mounted on an FR-4 substrate with a thickness “h” of 1.6, a permittivity “εr” of 4.4, and a tangential loss of 0.02. The proposed antenna achieves a high radiation gain and offers a frequency spectrum bandwidth of 3.01 GHz to 6.5 GHz, covering two 5G resonant frequencies “fr” of 3.5 and 5.8 GHz as the mid-band, which yields a gain of 7.66 dBi and 7.84 dBi, respectively. MIMO antenna parameters are examined and introduced to assess the system’s performance. Beneficial results are obtained, with the channel capacity loss (CCL) tending to 0.2 bit/s/Hz throughout the operating frequency band, the envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) yielding 0.02, a mean effective gain (MEG) of less than −6 dB over the operating frequency band, and a total active reflection coefficient (TARC) of less than −10 dB; the radiation efficiency is equal to 71.5%, maintaining impedance matching as well as good mutual coupling among the adjacent parameters. The suggested antenna has been implemented and experimentally tested using the 5G system Open Air Interface (OAI) platform, which operates at sub-6 GHz, yielding −67 dBm for the received signal strength indicator (RSSI), and superior frequency stability, precision, and reproducibility for the signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) and a high level of positivity in the power headroom report (PHR) 5G system performance report, confirming its operational effectiveness in 5G WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microwave and Wireless Communications)
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13 pages, 1677 KiB  
Article
Extracellular Vesicle miR-122-5p as a Prognostic Biomarker in Pediatric Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma
by Rebekka J. S. Salzmann, Anna Garbin, Enrico Gaffo, Caterina Elia, Gaia Martire, Stefania Bortoluzzi, Annalisa Tondo, Paola Muggeo, Alessandra Sala, Marco Pizzi, Marta Pillon, Elisa Carraro, Egesta Lopci, Valli de Re, Maurizio Mascarin and Lara Mussolin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(24), 13243; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252413243 - 10 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1187
Abstract
Currently, risk stratification for pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma is based on clinical factors such as stage, bulk, and systemic symptoms. Novel minimally invasive biomarkers could enhance both prognosis and treatment strategies. Therefore, the plasma extracellular vesicles’ microRNA profile was characterized by small RNA sequencing [...] Read more.
Currently, risk stratification for pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma is based on clinical factors such as stage, bulk, and systemic symptoms. Novel minimally invasive biomarkers could enhance both prognosis and treatment strategies. Therefore, the plasma extracellular vesicles’ microRNA profile was characterized by small RNA sequencing in 36 classical Hodgkin lymphoma cases and these findings were confirmed in an extended cohort of 86 patients by RT-qPCR. It was found that the levels of miR-122-5p at diagnosis were significantly higher (p-value: 0.0002) in patients who relapsed compared to patients in remission. The 5-year event-free survival of cases with high and low levels of miR-122-5p was 65 ± 7% and 93 ± 4%, respectively. MiR-122-5p levels were significantly associated with clinical events in both univariate (p-value: 0.0009) and multivariate (p-value: 0.0037) analysis (hazard ratio 5.8). Target prediction analysis suggests an involvement in the polarization of immune cells. The phenotypic characterization of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in 12 patients showed significantly increased levels of CD4+ T-cells in cases with high miR-122-5p levels as compared to low levels (p-value: 0.048). Moreover, CCL17 (TARC) and IL-6 plasma levels at diagnosis were significantly higher as compared to healthy donors (p-value: ≤0.0001). MiR-122-5p could complement current prognostic assays to identify patients at high risk of relapse. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Molecular Basis of Extracellular Vesicles in Health and Diseases)
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17 pages, 2627 KiB  
Article
Effect of Isoscopoletin on Cytokine Expression in HaCaT Keratinocytes and RBL-2H3 Basophils: Preliminary Study
by Da-Yun Seo, Ji-Won Park, Seung-Ho Kim, Sei-Ryang Oh, Sang-Bae Han, Ok-Kyoung Kwon and Kyung-Seop Ahn
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(13), 6908; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25136908 - 24 Jun 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2145
Abstract
Isoscopoletin is a compound derived from various plants traditionally used for the treatment of skin diseases. However, there have been no reported therapeutic effects of isoscopoletin on atopic dermatitis (AD). AD is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, and commonly used treatments have side [...] Read more.
Isoscopoletin is a compound derived from various plants traditionally used for the treatment of skin diseases. However, there have been no reported therapeutic effects of isoscopoletin on atopic dermatitis (AD). AD is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, and commonly used treatments have side effects; thus, there is a need to identify potential natural candidate substances. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether isoscopoletin regulates the inflammatory mediators associated with AD in TNF-α/IFN-γ-treated HaCaT cells and PMA/ionomycin treated RBL-2H3 cells. We determined the influence of isoscopoletin on cell viability through an MTT assay and investigated the production of inflammatory mediators using ELISA and RT-qPCR. Moreover, we analyzed the transcription factors that regulate inflammatory mediators using Western blots and ICC. The results showed that isoscopoletin did not affect cell viability below 40 μM in either HaCaT or RBL-2H3 cells. Isoscopoletin suppressed the production of TARC/CCL17, MDC/CCL22, MCP-1/CCL2, IL-8/CXCL8, and IL-1β in TNF-α/IFN-γ-treated HaCaT cells and IL-4 in PMA/ionomycin-treated RBL-2H3 cells. Furthermore, in TNF-α/IFN-γ-treated HaCaT cells, the phosphorylation of signaling pathways, including MAPK, NF-κB, STAT, and AKT/PKB, increased but was decreased by isoscopoletin. In PMA/ionomycin-treated RBL-2H3 cells, the activation of signaling pathways including PKC, MAPK, and AP-1 increased but was decreased by isoscopoletin. In summary, isoscopoletin reduced the production of inflammatory mediators by regulating upstream transcription factors in TNF-α/IFN-γ-treated HaCaT cells and PMA/ionomycin-treated RBL-2H3 cells. Therefore, we suggest that isoscopoletin has the potential for a therapeutic effect, particularly in skin inflammatory diseases such as AD, by targeting keratinocytes and basophils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Immunology)
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26 pages, 2776 KiB  
Article
Phytochemical Composition, Anti-Inflammatory Property, and Anti-Atopic Effect of Chaetomorpha linum Extract
by Luisa Frusciante, Michela Geminiani, Alfonso Trezza, Tommaso Olmastroni, Pierfrancesco Mastroeni, Laura Salvini, Stefania Lamponi, Andrea Bernini, Daniela Grasso, Elena Dreassi, Ottavia Spiga and Annalisa Santucci
Mar. Drugs 2024, 22(5), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/md22050226 - 17 May 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3036
Abstract
Utilizing plant-based resources, particularly their by-products, aligns with sustainability principles and circular bioeconomy, contributing to environmental preservation. The therapeutic potential of plant extracts is garnering increasing interest, and this study aimed to demonstrate promising outcomes from an extract obtained from an underutilized plant [...] Read more.
Utilizing plant-based resources, particularly their by-products, aligns with sustainability principles and circular bioeconomy, contributing to environmental preservation. The therapeutic potential of plant extracts is garnering increasing interest, and this study aimed to demonstrate promising outcomes from an extract obtained from an underutilized plant waste. Chaetomorpha linum, an invasive macroalga found in the Orbetello Lagoon, thrives in eutrophic conditions, forming persistent mats covering approximately 400 hectares since 2005. The biomass of C. linum undergoes mechanical harvesting and is treated as waste, requiring significant human efforts and economic resources—A critical concern for municipalities. Despite posing challenges to local ecosystems, the study identified C. linum as a natural source of bioactive metabolites. Phytochemical characterization revealed lipids, amino acids, and other compounds with potential anti-inflammatory activity in C. linum extract. In vitro assays with LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 and TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT cells showed the extract inhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) productions, and reduced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expressions via NF-κB nuclear translocation, in RAW 264.7 cells. It also reduced chemokines (TARC/CCL17, RANTES/CCL5, MCP-1/CCL2, and IL-8) and the cytokine IL-1β production in HaCaT cells, suggesting potential as a therapeutic candidate for chronic diseases like atopic dermatitis. Finally, in silico studies indicated palmitic acid as a significant contributor to the observed effect. This research not only uncovered the untapped potential of C. linum but also laid the foundation for its integration into the circular bioeconomy, promoting sustainable practices, and innovative applications across various industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Agents 3.0)
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18 pages, 12527 KiB  
Article
Compact Sub-6 GHz Four-Element Flexible Antenna for 5G Applications
by Mahmoud A. Abdelghany, Ahmed A. Ibrahim, Hesham. A. Mohamed and Emad Tammam
Electronics 2024, 13(3), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13030537 - 29 Jan 2024
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2790
Abstract
This paper proposes the design of a compact sub-6 GHz four-port flexible antenna for utilization in 5G applications. A two-arm monopole with a coplanar waveguide feed line printed on a flexible substrate was proposed to shape the single-element antenna. The single element was [...] Read more.
This paper proposes the design of a compact sub-6 GHz four-port flexible antenna for utilization in 5G applications. A two-arm monopole with a coplanar waveguide feed line printed on a flexible substrate was proposed to shape the single-element antenna. The single element was designed, fabricated, and measured first; then, four copies of the single element were organized on a single flexible substrate to compose the four-port antenna. The MIMO antenna was simulated, fabricated, and experimentally measured. All the simulations and measurements of the flexible single element and MIMO antennas are presented. The presented MIMO antenna showed good impedance characteristics, with a deep level of −24 dB from 3 to 4.12 GHz. The antenna had omnidirectional and bi-directional patterns in the φ = 0° and φ = 90° planes. As an important parameter evaluation for MIMO, the mutual coupling between the different ports was investigated. The diversity gain (DG), the total active reflection coefficient (TARC), the mean effective gain (MEG), the envelop correlation coefficient (ECC), and the channel capacity loss (CCL) parameters were investigated and showed good performance. All the obtained simulation results were in a high degree of agreement with the measurement results, supporting the usage of the suggested antenna in 5G communications. Full article
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21 pages, 7244 KiB  
Article
In Doxorubicin-Adapted Hodgkin Lymphoma Cells, Acquiring Multidrug Resistance and Improved Immunosuppressive Abilities, Doxorubicin Activity Was Enhanced by Chloroquine and GW4869
by Naike Casagrande, Cinzia Borghese, Michele Avanzo and Donatella Aldinucci
Cells 2023, 12(23), 2732; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12232732 - 29 Nov 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2441
Abstract
Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is a highly curable disease (70–80%), even though long-term toxicities, drug resistance, and predicting clinical responses to therapy are major challenges in cHL treatment. To solve these problems, we characterized two cHL cell lines with acquired resistance to doxorubicin, [...] Read more.
Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is a highly curable disease (70–80%), even though long-term toxicities, drug resistance, and predicting clinical responses to therapy are major challenges in cHL treatment. To solve these problems, we characterized two cHL cell lines with acquired resistance to doxorubicin, KM-H2dx and HDLM-2dx (HRSdx), generated from KM-H2 and HDLM-2 cells, respectively. HRSdx cells developed cross-resistance to vinblastine, bendamustin, cisplatin, dacarbazine, gemcitabine, brentuximab vedotin (BV), and γ-radiation. Both HDLM-2 and HDLM-2dx cells had intrinsic resistance to BV but not to the drug MMAE. HDLM-2dx acquired cross-resistance to caelyx. HRSdx cells had in common decreased CD71, CD80, CD54, cyt-ROS, HLA-DR, DDR1, and CD44; increased Bcl-2, CD58, COX2, CD26, CCR5, and invasive capability; increased CCL5, TARC, PGE2, and TGF-β; and the capability of hijacking monocytes. In HRSdx cells less sensitive to DNA damage and oxidative stress, the efflux drug transporters MDR1 and MRP1 were not up-regulated, and doxorubicin accumulated in the cytoplasm rather than in the nucleus. Both the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine and extracellular vesicle (EV) release inhibitor GW4869 enhanced doxorubicin activity and counteracted doxorubicin resistance. In conclusion, this study identifies common modulated antigens in HRSdx cells, the associated cross-resistance patterns, and new potential therapeutic options to enhance doxorubicin activity and overcome resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Lymphomas)
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21 pages, 3202 KiB  
Article
New Enhancing MRI Lesions Associate with IL-17, Neutrophil Degranulation and Integrin Microparticles: Multi-Omics Combined with Frequent MRI in Multiple Sclerosis
by Zsolt Illes, Malene Møller Jørgensen, Rikke Bæk, Lisa-Marie Bente, Jørgen T. Lauridsen, Kirsten H. Hyrlov, Christopher Aboo, Jan Baumbach, Tim Kacprowski, Francois Cotton, Charles R. G. Guttmann and Allan Stensballe
Biomedicines 2023, 11(12), 3170; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11123170 - 28 Nov 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3537
Abstract
Background: Blood–barrier (BBB) breakdown and active inflammation are hallmarks of relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS), but the molecular events contributing to the development of new lesions are not well explored. Leaky endothelial junctions are associated with increased production of endothelial-derived extracellular microvesicles (EVs) and [...] Read more.
Background: Blood–barrier (BBB) breakdown and active inflammation are hallmarks of relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS), but the molecular events contributing to the development of new lesions are not well explored. Leaky endothelial junctions are associated with increased production of endothelial-derived extracellular microvesicles (EVs) and result in the entry of circulating immune cells into the brain. MRI with intravenous gadolinium (Gd) can visualize acute blood–barrier disruption as the initial event of the evolution of new lesions. Methods: Here, weekly MRI with Gd was combined with proteomics, multiplex immunoassay, and endothelial stress-optimized EV array to identify early markers related to BBB disruption. Five patients with RMS with no disease-modifying treatment were monitored weekly using high-resolution 3T MRI scanning with intravenous gadolinium (Gd) for 8 weeks. Patients were then divided into three groups (low, medium, or high MRI activity) defined by the number of new, total, and maximally enhancing Gd-enhancing lesions and the number of new FLAIR lesions. Plasma samples taken at each MRI were analyzed for protein biomarkers of inflammation by quantitative proteomics, and cytokines using multiplex immunoassays. EVs were characterized with an optimized endothelial stress EV array based on exosome surface protein markers for the detection of soluble secreted EVs. Results: Proteomics analysis of plasma yielded quantitative information on 208 proteins at each patient time point (n = 40). We observed the highest number of unique dysregulated proteins (DEPs) and the highest functional enrichment in the low vs. high MRI activity comparison. Complement activation and complement/coagulation cascade were also strongly overrepresented in the low vs. high MRI activity comparison. Activation of the alternative complement pathway, pathways of blood coagulation, extracellular matrix organization, and the regulation of TLR and IGF transport were unique for the low vs. high MRI activity comparison as well, with these pathways being overrepresented in the patient with high MRI activity. Principal component analysis indicated the individuality of plasma profiles in patients. IL-17 was upregulated at all time points during 8 weeks in patients with high vs. low MRI activity. Hierarchical clustering of soluble markers in the plasma indicated that all four MRI outcomes clustered together with IL-17, IL-12p70, and IL-1β. MRI outcomes also showed clustering with EV markers CD62E/P, MIC A/B, ICAM-1, and CD42A. The combined cluster of these cytokines, EV markers, and MRI outcomes clustered also with IL-12p40 and IL-7. All four MRI outcomes correlated positively with levels of IL-17 (p < 0.001, respectively), and EV-ICAM-1 (p < 0.0003, respectively). IL-1β levels positively correlated with the number of new Gd-enhancing lesions (p < 0.01), new FLAIR lesions (p < 0.001), and total number of Gd-enhancing lesions (p < 0.05). IL-6 levels positively correlated with the number of new FLAIR lesions (p < 0.05). Random Forests and linear mixed models identified IL-17, CCL17/TARC, CCL3/MIP-1α, and TNF-α as composite biomarkers predicting new lesion evolution. Conclusions: Combination of serial frequent MRI with proteome, neuroinflammation markers, and protein array data of EVs enabled assessment of temporal changes in inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in RMS related to the evolution of new and enhancing lesions. Particularly, the Th17 pathway and IL-1β clustered and correlated with new lesions and Gd enhancement, indicating their importance in BBB disruption and initiating acute brain inflammation in MS. In addition to the Th17 pathway, abundant protein changes between MRI activity groups suggested the role of EVs and the coagulation system along with innate immune responses including acute phase proteins, complement components, and neutrophil degranulation. Full article
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15 pages, 5756 KiB  
Article
Design and Optimization of a Compact Super-Wideband MIMO Antenna with High Isolation and Gain for 5G Applications
by Bashar A. F. Esmail, Slawomir Koziel and Anna Pietrenko-Dabrowska
Electronics 2023, 12(22), 4710; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12224710 - 20 Nov 2023
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2439
Abstract
This paper presents a super-wideband multiple-input multiple-output (SWB MIMO) antenna with low profile, low mutual coupling, high gain, and compact size for microwave and millimeter-wave (mm-wave) fifth-generation (5G) applications. A single antenna is a simple elliptical-square shape with a small physical size of [...] Read more.
This paper presents a super-wideband multiple-input multiple-output (SWB MIMO) antenna with low profile, low mutual coupling, high gain, and compact size for microwave and millimeter-wave (mm-wave) fifth-generation (5G) applications. A single antenna is a simple elliptical-square shape with a small physical size of 20 × 20 × 0.787 mm3. The combination of both square and elliptical shapes results in an exceptionally broad impedance bandwidth spanning from 3.4 to 70 GHz. Antenna dimensions are optimized using the trust-region algorithm to enhance its impedance bandwidth and maintain the gain within a predefined limit across the entire band. For that purpose, regularized merit function is defined, which permits to control both the single antenna reflection response and gain. Subsequently, the SWB MIMO system is constructed with four radiators arranged orthogonally. This arrangement results in high isolation, better than 20 dB, over a frequency band from 3.4 to 70 GHz band. Further, the system achieves an average gain of approximately 7 dB below 45 GHz and a maximum gain equal to 12 dB for 70 GHz. The system exhibits excellent diversity performance throughout the entire bandwidth, as evidenced by the low envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) (<3 × 10−3), total active reflection coefficient (TARC) (≤−10 dB), and channel capacity loss (CCL) (<0.3 bit/s/Hz) metrics, as well as the high diversity gain (DG) of approximately 10 dB. Experimental validation of the developed SWB MIMO demonstrates a good matching between the measurements and simulations. Full article
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19 pages, 19545 KiB  
Article
A Novel Densely Packed 4 × 4 MIMO Antenna Design for UWB Wireless Applications
by Owais Khan, Shahid Khan, Safdar Nawaz Khan Marwat, Neelam Gohar, Muhammad Bilal and Mariana Dalarsson
Sensors 2023, 23(21), 8888; https://doi.org/10.3390/s23218888 - 1 Nov 2023
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2577
Abstract
In this article, a compact 4-port UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antenna is proposed. A low profile FR-4 substrate is used as a dielectric material with the dimensions of 58 × 58 mm2 (0.52λ × 0.52λ) at 2.8 GHz [...] Read more.
In this article, a compact 4-port UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antenna is proposed. A low profile FR-4 substrate is used as a dielectric material with the dimensions of 58 × 58 mm2 (0.52λ × 0.52λ) at 2.8 GHz and a standard thickness of 1.6 mm. The proposed design characterizes an impedance bandwidth starting from 2.8 to 12.1 GHz (124.1%). Each of the four elements of the proposed MIMO antenna configuration consists of a monopole antenna with PG (partial ground) that has a slot at its center. The corner of each patch (radiator) and ground slot are rounded for impedance matching. Each unit cell is in an orthogonal orientation, forming a quad-port MIMO antenna system. For reference, the partial ground of each unit cell is connected meticulously with the others. The simulated results of the proposed quad-port MIMO antenna design were configured and validated by fabrication and testing. The proposed Quad-port MIMO design has a 6.57 dBi peak gain and 97% radiation efficiency. The proposed design has good isolation below 15 dB in the lower frequency range and below 20 dB in the higher frequency range. The design has a measured ECC (Envelop Correlation Co-efficient) of 0.03 and DG (Diversity Gain) of 10 dB. The value of TARC (Total Active Reflection Coefficient) over the entire operating band is less than 10 dB. Moreover, the design maintained CCL (Channel Capacity Loss) < 0.4 bits/sec/Hz and MEG (Mean Effective Gain) < 3 dB. Based on the obtained results, the proposed design is suitable for the intended high data rate UWB wireless communication portable devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave Sensors for Industrial Applications)
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20 pages, 7118 KiB  
Article
Quad Element MIMO Antenna for C, X, Ku, and Ka-Band Applications
by Raj Kumar Mistri, Santosh Kumar Mahto, Ajit Kumar Singh, Rashmi Sinha, Ahmed Jamal Abdullah Al-Gburi, Thamer A. H. Alghamdi and Moath Alathbah
Sensors 2023, 23(20), 8563; https://doi.org/10.3390/s23208563 - 18 Oct 2023
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 3357
Abstract
This article presents a quad-element MIMO antenna designed for multiband operation. The prototype of the design is fabricated and utilizes a vector network analyzer (VNA-AV3672D) to measure the S-parameters. The proposed antenna is capable of operating across three broad frequency bands: 3–15.5 GHz, [...] Read more.
This article presents a quad-element MIMO antenna designed for multiband operation. The prototype of the design is fabricated and utilizes a vector network analyzer (VNA-AV3672D) to measure the S-parameters. The proposed antenna is capable of operating across three broad frequency bands: 3–15.5 GHz, encompassing the C band (4–8 GHz), X band (8–12.4 GHz), and a significant portion of the Ku band (12.4–15.5 GHz). Additionally, it covers two mm-wave bands, specifically 26.4–34.3 GHz and 36.1–48.9 GHz, which corresponds to 86% of the Ka-band (27–40 GHz). To enhance its performance, the design incorporates a partial ground plane and a top patch featuring a dual-sided reverse 3-stage stair and a straight stick symmetrically placed at the bottom. The introduction of a defected ground structure (DGS) on the ground plane serves to provide a wideband response. The DGS on the ground plane plays a crucial role in improving the electromagnetic interaction between the grounding surface and the top patch, contributing to the wideband characteristics of the antenna. The dimensions of the proposed MIMO antenna are 31.7 mm × 31.7 mm × 1.6 mm. Furthermore, the article delves into the assessment of various performance metrics related to antenna diversity, such as ECC, DG, TARC, MEG, CCL, and channel capacity, with corresponding values of 0.11, 8.87 dB, −6.6 dB, ±3 dB, 0.32 bits/sec/Hz, and 18.44 bits/sec/Hz, respectively. Additionally, the equivalent circuit analysis of the MIMO system is explored in the article. It’s worth noting that the measured results exhibit a strong level of agreement with the simulated results, indicating the reliability of the proposed design. The MIMO antenna’s ability to exhibit multiband response, good diversity performance, and consistent channel capacity across various frequency bands renders it highly suitable for integration into multi-band wireless devices. The developed MIMO system should be applicable on n77/n78/n79 5G NR (3.3–5 GHz); WLAN (4.9–5.725 GHz); Wi-Fi (5.15–5.85 GHz); LTE5537.5 (5.15–5.925 GHz); WiMAX (5.25–5.85 GHz); WLAN (5.725–5.875 GHz); long-distance radio telecommunication (4–8 GHz; C-band); satellite, radar, space communications and terrestrial broadband (8–12 GHz; X-band); and various satellite communications (27–40 GHz; Ka-band). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metasurface-Based Antennas for 5G and Beyond)
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20 pages, 7156 KiB  
Article
A Quad-Port Nature-Inspired Lotus-Shaped Wideband Terahertz Antenna for Wireless Applications
by Jeenal Raghunath, Praveen Kumar, Tanweer Ali, Pradeep Kumar, Parveez Shariff Bhadrvathi Ghouse and Sameena Pathan
J. Sens. Actuator Netw. 2023, 12(5), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/jsan12050069 - 21 Sep 2023
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2591
Abstract
This article is aimed at designing an inventive compact-size quad-port antenna that can be operated within terahertz (THz) frequency spectra for a 6G high-speed wireless communication link. The single-element antenna comprises a lotus-petal-like radiating patch and a defected ground structure (DGS) on a [...] Read more.
This article is aimed at designing an inventive compact-size quad-port antenna that can be operated within terahertz (THz) frequency spectra for a 6G high-speed wireless communication link. The single-element antenna comprises a lotus-petal-like radiating patch and a defected ground structure (DGS) on a 20 × 20 × 2 µm3 polyamide substrate and is designed to operate within the 8.96–13.5 THz frequency range. The THz antenna is deployed for a two-port MIMO configuration having a size of 46 × 20 × 2 µm3 with interelement separation of less than a quarter-wavelength of 0.18λ (λ at 9 THz). The two-port configuration operates in the 9–13.25 THz frequency range, with better than −25 dB isolation. Further, the two-port THz antenna is mirrored vertically with a separation of 0.5λ to form the four-port MIMO configuration. The proposed four-port THz antenna has dimensions of 46 × 46 × 2 µm3 and operates in the frequency range of 9–13 THz. Isolation improvement better than −25 dB is realized by incorporating parasitic elements onto the ground plane. Performance analysis of the proposed antenna in terms of MIMO diversity parameters, viz., envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) < 0.05, diversity gain (DG) ≈ 10, mean effective gain (MEG) < −3 dB, total active reflection coefficient (TARC) < −10 dB, channel capacity loss (CCL) < 0.3 bps/Hz, and multiplexing efficiency (ME) < 0 dB, is performed to justify the appropriateness of the proposed antenna for MIMO applications. The antenna has virtuous radiation properties with good gain, which is crucial for any wireless communication system, especially for the THz communication network. Full article
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