The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
13 pages, 1887 KiB  
Article
Comparison between Short, Medium, and Long Fields of View in Estimating Bicep Femoris Fascicle Length
by Nicholas J. Ripley, Paul Comfort and John McMahon
Muscles 2024, 3(2), 153-165; https://doi.org/10.3390/muscles3020014 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Measuring the bicep femoris long head fascicle length via the use of diagnostic ultrasound has become common practice within elite sport, using single images of between 4 and 6 cm. No study to date has compared single image estimations in terms of the [...] Read more.
Measuring the bicep femoris long head fascicle length via the use of diagnostic ultrasound has become common practice within elite sport, using single images of between 4 and 6 cm. No study to date has compared single image estimations in terms of the varying fields of view (i.e., 4, 6, and 10 cm). Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether differences occur when estimating the bicep femoris long head fascicle length using short (4 cm), medium (6 cm), and long (10 cm) fields of view across three estimation equations. A total of 36 male athletes (age: 23.8 ± 3.8 years, body mass: 83.7 ± 14.0 kg, height: 1.81 ± 0.06 m) had three ultrasound images of the bicep femoris long head collected on a single occasion with the fascicle length estimated. A significant main effect was observed (p < 0.001) with moderate–very large differences (p < 0.078, d = 0.91–4.01). The smallest fields of view resulted in the greatest fascicle length. There were significant moderate–large associations between the fields of view (p < 0.001, r = 0.542–0.892). Unacceptable limits of agreement were observed, and the developed correction equations remained unacceptable. The partial measure equation is the most accurate whilst using the 10 cm fields of view, while the basic trigonometry equation had the lowest variability between fields of view and the smallest differences between fields of view; hence, this equation may be more appropriate when a <6 cm field of view is the only field of view available. Full article
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20 pages, 284 KiB  
Article
Creative Learning for Sustainability in a World of AI: Action, Mindset, Values
by Danah Henriksen, Punya Mishra and Rachel Stern
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4451; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114451 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
In an era marked by unprecedented global challenges, including environmental degradation, social inequalities, and the rapid evolution of technology, the need for innovative educational approaches is critical. This conceptual paper explores the intersection of sustainability, creativity, and technology for education, focusing on artificial [...] Read more.
In an era marked by unprecedented global challenges, including environmental degradation, social inequalities, and the rapid evolution of technology, the need for innovative educational approaches is critical. This conceptual paper explores the intersection of sustainability, creativity, and technology for education, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) as an example. We propose a framework that synthesizes sustainability principles and creative pedagogies, detailing its components to guide the integration of AI into sustainability education. The paper illustrates how blending creative pedagogies with the notion of sustainability as a frame of mind offers a framework that allows teachers to support creative learning and problem solving, with and through technology. Using the example of AI technology, we illustrate the potential benefits and inherent challenges of integrating new technologies into education. Generative AI is a cogent example, as it presents unique opportunities for personalizing learning and engaging students in creative problem solving around sustainability issues. However, it also introduces significant environmental and ethical concerns to navigate. Exploring the balance between technological innovation and sustainability imperatives, this paper outlines a framework for incorporating technology into education that promotes environmental care with creative exploration. Through a synthesis of sustainability principles and creative pedagogies, we highlight the benefits and challenges of using AI in education, offering strategic insights to leverage technology for a sustainable and just future. Full article
10 pages, 8780 KiB  
Brief Report
Manual Reduction for Subacute Osteoporotic Burst and Severe Compression Thoracolumbar Fractures
by Kung-Chia Li, Ching-Hsiang Hsieh, Ting-Hua Liao and Chih-Hung Chen
BioMed 2024, 4(2), 136-145; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomed4020011 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The objective of this study was to retrospectively assess the impact of manual reduction (MR) on patients with subacute osteoporotic thoracolumbar burst fractures and severe compression fractures (OTLBFSCFs). From January 2016 to May 2020, 101 cases of OTLBFSCFs were reviewed, comprising 73 women [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to retrospectively assess the impact of manual reduction (MR) on patients with subacute osteoporotic thoracolumbar burst fractures and severe compression fractures (OTLBFSCFs). From January 2016 to May 2020, 101 cases of OTLBFSCFs were reviewed, comprising 73 women and 28 men, with an average age of 77.4 ± 8.5 years. Preoperative radiographs, CT or MRI scans, intraoperative C-arm fluoroscopic images, and postoperative X-ray films were utilized to evaluate spinal radiographic parameters. Initially, all patients underwent 3 min of prone positioning as posture reduction (PR), followed by 1–3 sessions of six-member MR to approximate anatomical reduction of the fracture. The average preoperative anterior body height ratio (ABH%) and lateral Cobb angle (LCA) were 38.8% ± 6.2% and 22.6° ± 4.2°, respectively. Post-PR, the average ABH% and LCA were 50.5% ± 8.0% and 14.7° ± 2.7°, respectively. Following MR, the average ABH% and LCA were 99.6% ± 2.4% and 0.4° ± 2.4°, respectively. PR achieved an ABH% correction of 11.7%, while MR achieved 49.1%. LCA restoration was 7.9° with PR and 14.3° with MR. It was deduced that MR proved to be safe and efficacious for subacute OTLBFSCFs and could potentially alter the approach to subsequent surgeries. Full article
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16 pages, 4714 KiB  
Article
Interlaboratory Comparison of Power Measurements at Millimetre- and Sub-Millimetre-Wave Frequencies
by Murat Celep, Daniel Stokes, Erkan Danacı, François Ziadé, Przemysław Zagrajek, Marcin Wojciechowski, Gia Ngoc Phung, Karsten Kuhlmann, Alireza Kazemipour, Steven Durant, Jeffrey Hesler, Ian Instone, Handan Sakarya, Djamel Allal, Jürgen Rühaak, James Skinner and Daniel Stalder
Metrology 2024, 4(2), 279-294; https://doi.org/10.3390/metrology4020017 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to compare the power measurement capabilities in millimetre- and sub-millimetre-wave frequency bands of several national metrology institutes and one research institute. The first comparison, in WR-6.5 waveguide (110 GHz to 170 GHz), involved NPL, TUBITAK UME and [...] Read more.
The aim of this paper is to compare the power measurement capabilities in millimetre- and sub-millimetre-wave frequency bands of several national metrology institutes and one research institute. The first comparison, in WR-6.5 waveguide (110 GHz to 170 GHz), involved NPL, TUBITAK UME and PTB. The second comparison, in WR-1.5 waveguide (500 GHz to 750 GHz), involved NPL, METAS, TUBITAK UME, LNE, WAT, GUM and VDI. Two types of travelling standards were used for these comparisons: a thermoelectric power sensor in the WR-6.5 band and a calorimetric power sensor in the WR-6.5 and WR-1.5 bands. The thermoelectric power sensor was characterised by the participants against their own standards and a generalised effective efficiency was calculated. The calorimetric power sensor operating in the WR-6.5 band was measured to observe its behaviour during the comparison and was also measured in the WR-1.5 band after being fitted with a suitable waveguide taper and used in conjunction with a frequency multiplier. The participants measured the output of the calorimetric power sensor and their own power sensor standard. A normalised power ratio method was used as a comparison parameter for the WR-1.5 band measurements. In addition, a pyroelectric power standard was used by METAS to measure absolute power, and a frequency of 650 GHz was used as a link between the absolute power and the power ratios. Finally, all but two of the measurement points compared between the participants achieved agreement in terms of En scores less than 1. For the first time, an interlaboratory comparison of power measurements at sub-millimetre frequencies has been performed and, overall, good agreement was achieved between the different laboratories. Full article
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17 pages, 2141 KiB  
Article
Potassium Nutrition Induced Salinity Mitigation in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] by Altering Biomass and Physio-Biochemical Processes
by Muhammad Yousaf Shani, M. Yasin Ashraf, Ammara Khalid Butt, Shahid Abbas, Muhammad Nasif, Zafran Khan, Rosario Paolo Mauro, Claudio Cannata, Nimra Gul, Maria Ghaffar and Faiqa Amin
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060549 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The present investigation was conducted to explore the role of potassium nutrition in improving biomass and physio-chemical alterations to reduce the adverse effects of salinity in mungbean. A sand-culture experiment was carried out under different salinity levels (0, 50, and 100 mM NaCl) [...] Read more.
The present investigation was conducted to explore the role of potassium nutrition in improving biomass and physio-chemical alterations to reduce the adverse effects of salinity in mungbean. A sand-culture experiment was carried out under different salinity levels (0, 50, and 100 mM NaCl) with two levels of potassium (0 and 50 mM K2SO4) and two mungbean cultivars (NM-92 and Ramzan), and the alterations in mungbean biomass and metabolic activities were investigated. The results suggested that salinity significantly reduced the biomass, nitrate reductase activity (NRA), nitrite reductase activity (NiRA), total soluble proteins, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous contents in both mungbean cultivars in comparison to the control. However, K2SO4 at 50 mM significantly improved all the parameters in both mungbean cultivars except for the sodium content. A significant increase in the total free amino acids, carotenoids, and sodium content in both mungbean cultivars was observed due to salt stress. Moreover, principal component analysis and heatmaps were developed individually for both mungbean cultivars to assess the variability and correlation among the studied attributes under all applied treatments. Under saline conditions, the mungbean ‘Ramzan’ showed more marked reductions in almost all the growth parameters as compared to ‘NM-92’. The results suggest that the application of K2SO4 ameliorates the adverse effects of salinity by regulating osmolyte production, NRA, and NiRA, thus promoting plant growth and productivity. Full article
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11 pages, 2316 KiB  
Article
Effectiveness of the Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation of Genicular Nerves in Patients with Chronic Knee Pain Due to Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Study
by Hyun-Jung Kwon, Chan-Sik Kim, Doo-Hwan Kim, Jin-Woo Shin, Daeyun Choi and Seong-Soo Choi
Medicina 2024, 60(6), 857; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60060857 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Increasing evidence supporting the clinical effectiveness of cooled radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy for genicular nerves in patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis (OA) exists. However, no study has been conducted to eliminate the potential influence of a placebo effect associated with this [...] Read more.
Background: Increasing evidence supporting the clinical effectiveness of cooled radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy for genicular nerves in patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis (OA) exists. However, no study has been conducted to eliminate the potential influence of a placebo effect associated with this procedure. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy of cooled RFA compared with a sham procedure in patients with painful knees due to OA. Methods: In this double-blind, randomized, controlled study, participants were randomly assigned to receive cooled RFA of the knee (cooled RFA group, n = 20) or a sham procedure (sham group, n = 20). The primary outcome was the proportion of successful responders at the three-month follow-up. The secondary outcomes were successful responders at one and six months; pain intensity of the knee; functional status; medication; and satisfaction at one, three, and six months after the procedures. Results: For the primary outcome, the successful responder rate was significantly higher in the cooled RFA group (76.5%) than in the sham group (33.3%) (p = 0.018). For the secondary outcome, more successful responders were observed in the cooled RFA group than in the sham group at one and six months after the procedure (p = 0.041 and 0.007, respectively). The decreased knee pain intensity was maintained throughout the six-month follow-up period in the cooled RFA group. No differences were observed in functional status, medication change, or satisfaction in both groups. Conclusions: The cooled RFA of genicular nerves offers significant pain relief and surpasses the effects attributable to a placebo. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)
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11 pages, 220 KiB  
Article
Measuring Things That Measure You: Complex Epistemological Practices in Science Applied to the Martial Arts
by Zachary Agoff, Vadim Keyser and Benjamin Gwerder
Philosophies 2024, 9(3), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/philosophies9030074 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
We argue that an epistemology of martial arts is at least as complex as advanced epistemological positions available to the philosophy of science. Part of the complexity is a product of the epistemic relation between the knower and known, or the scientist and [...] Read more.
We argue that an epistemology of martial arts is at least as complex as advanced epistemological positions available to the philosophy of science. Part of the complexity is a product of the epistemic relation between the knower and known, or the scientist and the object of inquiry. In science, we measure things without changing them and, sometimes, complex systems can change as we measure them; but, in the epistemology of sport that we are interested in, each measurer is also an object of inquiry. As such, each martial arts practitioner has to use various epistemic tools to measure a responsive system. We proceed in three steps. First, we discuss three epistemological frameworks in the philosophy of science—perspectivism, productivism, and distributed cognition. Second, we develop an epistemology of martial arts that features components from each of those epistemic frameworks. Third, we close the paper with a brief discussion about the unique complexity available to the martial artist, focusing on the responsive measurements that occur between two systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Philosophy and Science of Martial Arts)
18 pages, 1058 KiB  
Article
Tackling Carbon Footprints: Sustainability Challenges of Hosting the Final Four in Kaunas, Lithuania
by Dalia Perkumienė, Ahmet Atalay and Gintautas Labanauskas
Urban Sci. 2024, 8(2), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci8020055 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to calculate the carbon footprint of the 2023 EuroLeague Men’s Final Four competition and identify the sources of the carbon footprint in sports. This study also aims to predict possible solutions to reduce this footprint. Mixed research [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study is to calculate the carbon footprint of the 2023 EuroLeague Men’s Final Four competition and identify the sources of the carbon footprint in sports. This study also aims to predict possible solutions to reduce this footprint. Mixed research methods were used in this study. Firstly, carbon footprint calculations related to the teams and fan travel were carried out. In the second step, interviews were conducted with the managers of the teams that won the basketball Final Four. The interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview. The total carbon footprint of the four teams participating in the competitions was calculated as 4560.25 kg, and the average of the total carbon footprint of the teams per person was calculated as 189.74 kg. The total carbon footprint of the fans of the four teams was calculated as 4065.686 kg, and the average of the total carbon footprint per capita of the fans was calculated as 3.003 kg. According to the interview findings, the carbon footprint sources in sports were identified as traveling, energy consumption, and waste generation. Turning to renewable energy sources, waste management and sustainable transport alternatives were identified as effective solutions for reducing the carbon footprint. Analysis of the research results showed that the interest and participation in the Final Four and other international organizations are increasing. Due to increasing carbon footprint, these events and competitions should be planned and conducted in accordance with the goals of environmental sustainability. For this purpose, managers and policy makers should turn to clean energy sources, including waste management and recycling strategies, the preparation of sustainable transportation projects, and integrating all these processes into organization activities. Full article
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17 pages, 5505 KiB  
Article
Fault Detection and Normal Operating Condition in Power Transformers via Pattern Recognition Artificial Neural Network
by André Gifalli, Alfredo Bonini Neto, André Nunes de Souza, Renan Pinal de Mello, Marco Akio Ikeshoji, Enio Garbelini and Floriano Torres Neto
Appl. Syst. Innov. 2024, 7(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/asi7030041 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Aging, degradation, or damage to internal insulation materials often contribute to transformer failures. Furthermore, combustible gases can be produced when these insulation materials experience thermal or electrical stresses. This paper presents an artificial neural network for pattern recognition (PRN) to classify the operating [...] Read more.
Aging, degradation, or damage to internal insulation materials often contribute to transformer failures. Furthermore, combustible gases can be produced when these insulation materials experience thermal or electrical stresses. This paper presents an artificial neural network for pattern recognition (PRN) to classify the operating conditions of power transformers (normal, thermal faults, and electrical faults) depending on the combustible gases present in them. Two network configurations were presented, one with five and the other with ten neurons in the hidden layer. The main advantage of applying this model through artificial neural networks is its ability to capture the nonlinear characteristics of the samples under study, thus avoiding the need for iterative procedures. The effectiveness and applicability of the proposed methodology were evaluated on 815 real data samples. Based on the results, the PRN performed well in both training and validation (for samples that were not part of the training), with a mean squared error (MSE) close to expected (0.001). The network was able to classify the samples with a 98% accuracy rate of the 815 samples presented and with 100% accuracy in validation, showing that the methodology developed is capable of acting as a tool for diagnosing the operability of power transformers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Artificial Intelligence)
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11 pages, 2624 KiB  
Article
Surface Modification Induces Oriented Zn(002) Deposition for Highly Stable Zinc Anode
by Hongfei Zhang, Fujie Li, Zijin Li, Liu Gao, Binghui Xu and Chao Wang
Batteries 2024, 10(6), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries10060178 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) are considered a promising candidate for grid-scale energy storage systems owing to their high capacity, high safety and low cost. However, Zn anodes suffer from notorious dendrite growth and undesirable surface corrosion, severely hindering the commercialization of AZMBs. [...] Read more.
Aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) are considered a promising candidate for grid-scale energy storage systems owing to their high capacity, high safety and low cost. However, Zn anodes suffer from notorious dendrite growth and undesirable surface corrosion, severely hindering the commercialization of AZMBs. Herein, a strategy for engineering a dense ZnO coating layer on Zn anodes using the atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique is developed, aiming to improve its long-term cycling stability with fewer Zn dendrites. The surface-modified Zn anode (ZnO@Zn) exhibits an excellent long-cycling life (680 h) and stable coulombic efficiency when being used in a symmetric cell. Moreover, the ZnO@Zn electrode shows a high stability with almost no capacity decay after 1100 cycles at 2C in a full cell using MnO2 as the cathode. The ZnO coating is conducive to reducing corrosion and the generation of by-products, thus increasing the reversibility of Zn2+/Zn stripping/plating. Particularly, density functional theory (DFT) calculation results reveal that the ZnO coating layer could effectively lower the adsorption energy of the Zn(002) plane in ZnO@Zn, inducing the preferential deposition of Zn2+ towards the (002) crystal plane with fewer Zn dendrites. The surface ZnO coating protocol provides a promising approach to achieve a dendrite-free Zn anode for stable AZMBs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zn-Ion Batteries: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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15 pages, 288 KiB  
Article
What Is There to Be Ashamed Of? Nietzsche and Plato
by Ondřej Sikora
Philosophies 2024, 9(3), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/philosophies9030076 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The motif of shame represents an interesting and hitherto neglected intersection in the discussion of the relationship between Nietzsche and Plato. The first part of the essay recapitulates the function of this motif in Nietzsche’s culminating texts (mainly Zarathustra and Gay Science), [...] Read more.
The motif of shame represents an interesting and hitherto neglected intersection in the discussion of the relationship between Nietzsche and Plato. The first part of the essay recapitulates the function of this motif in Nietzsche’s culminating texts (mainly Zarathustra and Gay Science), while the second part focuses on the motif of shame in Plato’s work, specifically the two extreme contexts of death (Apology, Crito) and love (Symposium). It turns out that for both authors, shame is a constitutive moral phenomenon that is thematized in relation to logos. Shame and logos thus stand in close and contrasting relation. Their tension is decisive for the life of the soul, for its upward movement (Plato) or gradation (Nietzsche). It is therefore not a simple subjugation of the “bad”, irrational element by the “good”, rational component of the soul that plays the central role but an interplay of irreducible, mutually demanding moments. The interpretation of their interplay has both historical and systematic importance—it sheds new light on the relationship between these seemingly opposing philosophers and contributes to answering the following question: what is there to be ashamed of? Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Moral Psychology of the Emotions)
12 pages, 1306 KiB  
Article
Effect of Third Molar Surgery on Sleep Health Parameters of Young Adults: An Observational Study
by Ioulianos Apessos, Theodoros Lillis, Athanasios Voulgaris, Kostas Archontogeorgis, Paschalis Steiropoulos and Nikolaos Dabarakis
Medicina 2024, 60(6), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60060858 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The role of surgical extraction of the third molar in patients’ sleep quality remains unclear, although it is one of the most common oral surgical procedures. The aim of this study is to assess the changes in patient-reported sleep [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The role of surgical extraction of the third molar in patients’ sleep quality remains unclear, although it is one of the most common oral surgical procedures. The aim of this study is to assess the changes in patient-reported sleep health outcomes after third molar surgery and to investigate any associations between sleep parameters and post-extraction pain. Materials and Methods: Young adults without known comorbidities who were in need of mandibular third molar surgical extraction were included. All participants completed a sleep diary, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) questionnaires, which were used to assess sleep habits, daytime sleepiness, sleep quality and insomnia severity one week before and after extraction. In addition, a visual analog scale was completed postoperatively to assess the perception of pain. Results: Out of 75 patients who completed the study protocol, 32 (42.7%) were males and 43 (57.3%) were females, with a mean age of 24.01 (±3.43) years. Postoperatively, statistically significant higher scores were observed for PSQI [4.85 (±2.32) before vs. 5.39 (±2.75) after, p = 0.041], AIS [5.56 (±3.23) before vs. 6.91 (±4.06) after, p < 0.001] and average weekly number of nocturnal awakenings [2.01 (±3.72) before vs. 4.19 (±5.20) after, p < 0.001] but not for ESS, average weekly sleep duration and average weekly sleep onset latency. Pain perception was increased in patients who slept worse on almost all seven postoperative days, although this did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: Third molar surgery impacts sleep quality and insomnia severity in the first week after extraction, while there is no effect on daytime sleepiness. The worsening of subjective sleep symptoms after extraction may be associated with an increased perception of pain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry)
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16 pages, 35630 KiB  
Article
Modeling and Simulation of a Gas-Exhaust Design for Battery Thermal Runaway Propagation in a LiFePO4 Module
by Songtong Zhang, Xiayu Zhu, Jingyi Qiu, Chengshan Xu, Yan Wang and Xuning Feng
Batteries 2024, 10(6), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries10060176 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The release of flammable gases during battery thermal runaway poses a risk of combustion and explosion, endangering personnel safety. The convective and diffusive properties of the gas make it challenging to accurately measure gas state, complicating the assessment of the battery pack exhaust [...] Read more.
The release of flammable gases during battery thermal runaway poses a risk of combustion and explosion, endangering personnel safety. The convective and diffusive properties of the gas make it challenging to accurately measure gas state, complicating the assessment of the battery pack exhaust design. In this paper, a thermal resistance network model is established, which is used to calculate the battery thermal runaway propagation. Gas accumulation after thermal runaway venting of a LiFeO4 module is studied using ANSYS Fluent under different venting schemes. The results show that the scheme of battery inversion and simultaneous exhaust from the side and bottom of the module is optimal. The methods and results presented can guide the design of LiFeO4 cell pack runners. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Battery Performance, Ageing, Reliability and Safety)
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12 pages, 2463 KiB  
Article
Study of 10 kW Vanadium Flow Battery Discharge Characteristics at Different Load Powers
by Ilia Rashitov, Aleksandr Voropay, Grigoriy Tsepilov, Ivan Kuzmin, Alexey Loskutov, Evgeny Osetrov, Andrey Kurkin and Ivan Lipuzhin
Batteries 2024, 10(6), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries10060175 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Vanadium redox flow batteries are promising energy storage devices and are already ahead of lead–acid batteries in terms of installed capacity in energy systems due to their long service life and possibility of recycling. One of the crucial tasks today is the development [...] Read more.
Vanadium redox flow batteries are promising energy storage devices and are already ahead of lead–acid batteries in terms of installed capacity in energy systems due to their long service life and possibility of recycling. One of the crucial tasks today is the development of models for assessing battery performance and its residual resource based on the battery’s present state. A promising method for estimating battery capacity is based on analyzing present voltage and current values under various load conditions. This paper analyzes the discharge characteristics of a 10 kW all-vanadium redox flow battery at fixed load powers from 6 to 12 kW. A linear dependence of operating voltage and initial discharge voltage on load power is established. It is also determined that the slope of the discharge curve linear section does not increase linearly in absolute value, and the Box–Lucas model can be used to describe it. Models for predicting current VRFB capacity based on different curve fitting functions are proposed. These models can be used to roughly estimate battery capacity at different load powers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Battery Aging Diagnosis and Prognosis)
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22 pages, 5087 KiB  
Article
Dual Functionalization of Hyaluronan Dermal Fillers with Vitamin B3: Efficient Combination of Bio-Stimulation Properties with Hydrogel System Resilience Enhancement
by Alexandre Porcello, Michèle Chemali, Cíntia Marques, Corinne Scaletta, Kelly Lourenço, Philippe Abdel-Sayed, Wassim Raffoul, Nathalie Hirt-Burri, Lee Ann Applegate and Alexis Laurent
Gels 2024, 10(6), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10060361 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels are commonly used for facial dermal filling and for alternative medical aesthetic purposes. High diversity exists in commercial formulations, notably for the optimization of finished product stability, functionality, and performance. Polyvalent ingredients such as calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) or vitamin [...] Read more.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels are commonly used for facial dermal filling and for alternative medical aesthetic purposes. High diversity exists in commercial formulations, notably for the optimization of finished product stability, functionality, and performance. Polyvalent ingredients such as calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) or vitamin B3 (niacinamide) are notably used as bio-stimulants to improve skin quality attributes at the administration site. The aim of the present study was to perform multi-parametric characterization of two novel cross-linked dermal filler formulas (HAR-1 “Instant Refine” and HAR-3 “Maxi Lift”) for elucidation of the various functional impacts of vitamin B3 incorporation. Therefore, the HAR products were firstly comparatively characterized in terms of in vitro rheology, cohesivity, injectability, and resistance to chemical or enzymatic degradation (exposition to H2O2, AAPH, hyaluronidases, or xanthine oxidase). Then, the HAR products were assessed for cytocompatibility and in vitro bio-stimulation attributes in a primary dermal fibroblast model. The results showed enhanced resilience of the cohesive HAR hydrogels as compared to JUVÉDERM® VOLBELLA® and VOLUMA® reference products in a controlled degradation assay panel. Furthermore, significant induction of total collagen synthesis in primary dermal fibroblast cultures was recorded for HAR-1 and HAR-3, denoting intrinsic bio-stimulatory effects comparable or superior to those of the Radiesse® and Sculptra reference products. Original results of high translational relevance were generated herein using robust and orthogonal experimental methodologies (hydrogel degradation, functional benchmarking) and study designs. Overall, the reported results confirmed the dual functionalization role of vitamin B3 in cross-linked HA dermal fillers, with a significant enhancement of hydrogel system stability attributes and the deployment of potent bio-stimulatory capacities. Full article
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13 pages, 956 KiB  
Article
Investing in US Timberland Companies
by Jack Clark Francis and Ge Zhang
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2024, 17(6), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17060220 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Are common stocks issued by timberland companies a good investment? Portfolios of large US timberland corporations are compared to simultaneous investments in a diversified US common stock index. Over a 20-year sample period it turns out that the US timberland corporations, on average, [...] Read more.
Are common stocks issued by timberland companies a good investment? Portfolios of large US timberland corporations are compared to simultaneous investments in a diversified US common stock index. Over a 20-year sample period it turns out that the US timberland corporations, on average, perform about as well as the highly diversified US stock market index. It is surprising that the timberland companies do not outperform the stock market indexes because, in order to encourage tree planting, the US Congress has almost completely exempted timberland companies from paying federal income taxes. Furthermore, it is scientifically impossible to assess the value of the large amounts of photosynthesis that the timberland companies produce. As a result of these two ambiguities, it is difficult to state decisively that the timberland companies are better investments than a diversified portfolio of common stocks. However, valuing timberland companies is more practical than endeavoring to value the trees directly. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advancements in Real Estate Finance and Risk Management)
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16 pages, 4788 KiB  
Review
A Self-Polymerizing Mesh of Nano-Tethers for the Mechanical Constraint of Degraded Intervertebral Discs—A Review of 25 Years of Pre-Clinical and Early Clinical Research
by Thomas Hedman, Adam Rogers and Douglas Beall
Bioengineering 2024, 11(6), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11060535 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Genipin polymers are self-forming tensile-load-carrying oligomers, derived from the gardenia fruit, that covalently bond to amines on collagen. The potential therapeutic mechanical benefits of a non-discrete in situ forming mesh of genipin oligomers for degraded spinal discs were first conceived in 1998. Over [...] Read more.
Genipin polymers are self-forming tensile-load-carrying oligomers, derived from the gardenia fruit, that covalently bond to amines on collagen. The potential therapeutic mechanical benefits of a non-discrete in situ forming mesh of genipin oligomers for degraded spinal discs were first conceived in 1998. Over more than two decades, numerous studies have demonstrated the immediate mechanical effects of this injectable, intra-annular polymeric mesh including an early demonstration of an effect on clinical outcomes for chronic or recurrent discogenic low back pain. This literature review focused on articles investigating mechanical effects in cadaveric animal and human spinal discs, biochemical mechanism of action studies, articles describing the role of mechanical degradation in the pathogenesis of degenerative disc disease, initial clinical outcomes and articles describing current discogenic low back pain treatment algorithms. On the basis of these results, clinical indications that align with the capabilities of this novel injectable polymer-based treatment strategy are discussed. It is intended that this review of a novel nano-scale material-based solution for mechanical deficiencies in biologically limited tissues may provide a helpful example for other innovations in spinal diseases and similarly challenging musculoskeletal disorders. Full article
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13 pages, 6327 KiB  
Article
Antibacterial Silver Nanoparticle Containing Polydopamine Hydrogels That Enhance Re-Epithelization
by Naphtali A. O’Connor, Abdulhaq Syed, Ertan Kastrat and Hai-Ping Cheng
Gels 2024, 10(6), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10060363 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
A polydopamine polyelectrolyte hydrogel was developed by ionic crosslinking dextran sulfate with a copolymer of polyethyleneimine and polydopamine. Gelation was promoted by the slow hydrolysis of glucono-δ-lactone. Within this hydrogel, silver nanoparticles were generated in situ, ranging from 25 nm to 200 nm [...] Read more.
A polydopamine polyelectrolyte hydrogel was developed by ionic crosslinking dextran sulfate with a copolymer of polyethyleneimine and polydopamine. Gelation was promoted by the slow hydrolysis of glucono-δ-lactone. Within this hydrogel, silver nanoparticles were generated in situ, ranging from 25 nm to 200 nm in size. The antibacterial activity of the hydrogel was proportional to the quantity of silver nanoparticles produced, increasing as the nanoparticle count rose. The hydrogels demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial efficacy at concentrations up to 108 cells/mL for P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, E. coli and S. aureus, the four most prevalent bacterial pathogens in chronic septic wounds. In ex vivo studies on human skin, biocompatibility was enhanced by the presence of polydopamine. Dextran sulfate is a known irritant, but formulations with polydopamine showed improved cell viability and reduced levels of the inflammatory biomarkers IL-8 and IL-1α. Silver nanoparticles can inhibit cell migration, but an ex vivo human skin study showed significant re-epithelialization in wounds treated with hydrogels containing silver nanoparticles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biopolymer-Based Gels for Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering)
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21 pages, 4336 KiB  
Article
Rice Weevil (Sitophilus oryzae L.) Gut Bacteria Inhibit Growth of Aspergillus flavus and Degrade Aflatoxin B1
by Haneen Abdullah Al-Saadi, Abdullah Mohammed Al-Sadi, Ali Al-Wahaibi, Ali Al-Raeesi, Mohamed Al-Kindi, Sathish Babu Soundra Pandian, Majida Mohammed Ali Al-Harrasi, Issa Hashil Al-Mahmooli and Rethinasamy Velazhahan
J. Fungi 2024, 10(6), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10060377 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, bacteria residing in the gut of the rice weevils (Sitophilus oryzae L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) feeding on aflatoxin-contaminated corn kernels were isolated and evaluated for their ability to suppress Aspergillus flavus and to remove/degrade aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Four morphologically distinct [...] Read more.
In this study, bacteria residing in the gut of the rice weevils (Sitophilus oryzae L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) feeding on aflatoxin-contaminated corn kernels were isolated and evaluated for their ability to suppress Aspergillus flavus and to remove/degrade aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Four morphologically distinct S. oryzae gut-associated bacterial isolates were isolated and identified as Bacillus subtilis (RWGB1), Bacillus oceanisediminis (RWGB2), Bacillus firmus (RWGB3), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (RWGB4) based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. These bacterial isolates inhibited A. flavus growth in the dual culture assay and induced morphological deformities in the fungal hyphae, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. All four bacterial isolates were capable of removing AFB1 from the nutrient broth medium. In addition, culture supernatants of these bacterial isolates degraded AFB1, and the degradation of toxin molecules was confirmed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The bacterial isolates, B. subtilis RWGB1, B. oceanisediminis RWGB2, and P. aeruginosa RWGB4, were capable of producing antifungal volatile organic compounds that inhibited A. flavus growth. These results suggest that the bacterial isolates from S. oryzae gut have the potential to bind and/or degrade AFB1. Further research on their application in the food and feed industries could enhance the safety of food and feed production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxigenic Fungi and Mycotoxins)
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12 pages, 1112 KiB  
Article
A Dual and Rapid RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a Method for Simultaneous Detection of Cattle and Soybean-Derived Adulteration in Goat Milk Powder
by Yuanjun Wen, Shuqin Huang, Hongtao Lei, Xiangmei Li and Xing Shen
Foods 2024, 13(11), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13111637 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The adulteration of goat milk powder occurs frequently; cattle-derived and soybean-derived ingredients are common adulterants in goat milk powder. However, simultaneously and rapidly detecting cattle-derived and soybean-derived components is still a challenge. An efficient, high-throughput screening method for adulteration detection is needed. In [...] Read more.
The adulteration of goat milk powder occurs frequently; cattle-derived and soybean-derived ingredients are common adulterants in goat milk powder. However, simultaneously and rapidly detecting cattle-derived and soybean-derived components is still a challenge. An efficient, high-throughput screening method for adulteration detection is needed. In this study, a rapid method was developed to detect the adulteration of common cattle-derived and soybean-derived components simultaneously in goat milk powder by combining the CRISPR/Cas12a system with recombinant polymerase amplification (RPA). A dual DNA extraction method was employed. Primers and crRNA for dual detection were designed and screened, and a series of condition optimizations were carried out in this experiment. The optimized assay rapidly detected cattle-derived and soybean-derived components in 40 min. The detection limits of both cattle-derived and soybean-derived components were 1% (w/w) for the mixed adulteration models. The established method was applied to a blind survey of 55 commercially available goat milk powder products. The results revealed that 36.36% of the samples contained cattle-derived or soybean-derived ingredients, which revealed the noticeable adulteration situation in the goat milk powder market. This study realized a fast flow of dual extraction, dual amplification, and dual detection of cattle-derived and soybean-derived components in goat milk powder for the first time. The method developed can be used for high-throughput and high-efficiency on-site primary screening of goat milk powder adulterants, and provides a technical reference for combating food adulteration. Full article
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16 pages, 1036 KiB  
Systematic Review
Fracture Resistance of Direct versus Indirect Restorations on Posterior Teeth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Carol Moussa, Guillaume Savard, Gael Rochefort, Matthieu Renaud, Frédéric Denis and Maha H. Daou
Bioengineering 2024, 11(6), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11060536 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare static compression forces between direct composite resin restorations and indirect restorations for posterior teeth. All studies comparing mechanical properties of direct versus indirect restorations of posterior teeth were included from 2007 up [...] Read more.
The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare static compression forces between direct composite resin restorations and indirect restorations for posterior teeth. All studies comparing mechanical properties of direct versus indirect restorations of posterior teeth were included from 2007 up to February 2024. A meta-analysis was conducted for static compression fracture resistance. Medline, Central, and Embase databases were screened. Twenty-four articles were included in the qualitative synthesis, and sixteen studies were finally included in the quantitative synthesis. There was no difference in terms of fracture resistance between direct and indirect restorations for posterior teeth (p = 0.16 for direct and indirect composite resin restorations and p = 0.87 for direct composite resin restorations and indirect ceramic restorations). Also, sub-group analysis with or without cusp coverage in each group revealed no discernable difference. Based on this study, it can be concluded that the choice between direct and indirect restoration approaches may not significantly impact fracture resistance outcomes. There was no statically significant difference between direct and indirect restorations for posterior teeth in all cases of restorations with or without cusp coverage and no matter the used materials. However, to better evaluate these materials, further studies are warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioceramic Strategy—the Game of Bioactivity in Endodontic)
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16 pages, 3907 KiB  
Article
GC/MS-Based Metabolomic Analysis of A549 Cells Exposed to Emerging Organophosphate Flame Retardants
by Mengyao Sun, Xiao Chang, Ying Gao, Sisi Zou, Shaomin Wang and Hongmin Liu
Toxics 2024, 12(6), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12060384 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Emerging organophosphate flame retardants (eOPFRs) have attracted attention in recent times and are expected to gain extensive usage in the coming years. However, they may have adverse effects on organisms. Due to their novel nature, there are few relevant articles dealing with toxicological [...] Read more.
Emerging organophosphate flame retardants (eOPFRs) have attracted attention in recent times and are expected to gain extensive usage in the coming years. However, they may have adverse effects on organisms. Due to their novel nature, there are few relevant articles dealing with toxicological studies of the above eOPFRs, especially their information on the perturbation of cellular metabolism, which is, thus far, marginally understood. Our research initially assessed the cytotoxicity of eOPFRs, which include compounds like cresyl diphenyl phosphate (CDP), resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate) (RDP), triallyl phosphate (TAP), and pentaerythritol phosphate alcohol (PEPA). This evaluation was conducted using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Subsequently, we utilized a gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS)-based metabolomic approach to investigate the metabolic disruptions induced by these four eOPFRs in A549 cells. The MTT results showed that, at high concentrations of 1 mM, their cytotoxicity was ranked as CDP > TAP > RDP > PEPA. In addition, metabolic studies at low concentrations of 10 μM showed that the metabolic interference of CDP, TAP, and PEPA focuses on oxidative stress, amino acid metabolism, and energy metabolism, while RDP mainly affects energy metabolism—galactose metabolism and gluconeogenesis. Therefore, from the perspective of cytotoxicity and metabolic analysis, RDP may be a more promising alternative. Our experiments provide important insights into the possible metabolic effects of potential toxic substances and complement the evidence on the human health risks of eOPFRs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Emerging Contaminants)
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13 pages, 3707 KiB  
Article
Biomechanical Modelling of Porcine Kidney
by Aadarsh Mishra and Robin O. Cleveland
Bioengineering 2024, 11(6), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11060537 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, the viscoelastic properties of porcine kidney in the upper, middle and lower poles were investigated using oscillatory shear tests. The viscoelastic properties were extracted in the form of the storage modulus and loss modulus in the frequency and time domain. [...] Read more.
In this study, the viscoelastic properties of porcine kidney in the upper, middle and lower poles were investigated using oscillatory shear tests. The viscoelastic properties were extracted in the form of the storage modulus and loss modulus in the frequency and time domain. Measurements were taken as a function of frequency from 0.1 Hz to 6.5 Hz at a shear strain amplitude of 0.01 and as function of strain amplitude from 0.001 to 0.1 at a frequency of 1 Hz. Measurements were also taken in the time domain in response to a step shear strain. Both the frequency and time domain data were fitted to a conventional Standard Linear Solid (SLS) model and a semi-fractional Kelvin–Voigt (SFKV) model with a comparable number of parameters. The SFKV model fitted the frequency and time domain data with a correlation coefficient of 0.99. Although the SLS model well fitted the time domain data and the storage modulus data in the frequency domain, it was not able to capture the variation in loss modulus with frequency with a correlation coefficient of 0.53. A five parameter Maxwell–Wiechert model was able to capture the frequency dependence in storage modulus and loss modulus better than the SLS model with a correlation of 0.85. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics Analysis in Tissue Engineering)
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