Advancing Open Science
for more than 25 years
Supporting academic communities
since 1996
 
22 pages, 2838 KiB  
Article
Post-Translational Regulation of a Bidomain Glycerol-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Catalyzing Glycerol Synthesis under Salinity Stress in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
by Itzela Cruz-Powell, Binita Subedi, Yeongho Kim, Daniela Morales-Sánchez and Heriberto Cerutti
Phycology 2024, 4(2), 213-234; https://doi.org/10.3390/phycology4020012 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Core chlorophytes possess glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenases (GPDs) with an unusual bidomain structure, consisting of a glycerol-3-phosphate phosphatase (GPP) domain fused to canonical GPD domains. These plastid-localized enzymes have been implicated in stress responses, being required for the synthesis of glycerol under high salinity and [...] Read more.
Core chlorophytes possess glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenases (GPDs) with an unusual bidomain structure, consisting of a glycerol-3-phosphate phosphatase (GPP) domain fused to canonical GPD domains. These plastid-localized enzymes have been implicated in stress responses, being required for the synthesis of glycerol under high salinity and triacylglycerols under nutrient deprivation. However, their regulation under varying environmental conditions is poorly understood. C. reinhardtii transgenic strains expressing constitutively bidomain GPD2 did not accumulate glycerol or triacylglycerols in the absence of any environmental stress. Although the glycerol contents of both wild type and transgenic strains increased significantly upon exposure to high salinity, cycloheximide, an inhibitor of cytoplasmic protein synthesis, abolished this response in the wild type. In contrast, GPD2 transgenic strains were still capable of glycerol accumulation when cultured in medium containing cycloheximide and NaCl. Thus, the pre-existing GPD2 protein appears to become activated for glycerol synthesis upon salt stress. Interestingly, staurosporine, a non-specific inhibitor of protein kinases, prevented this post-translational GPD2 protein activation. Structural modeling analyses suggested that substantial conformational rearrangements, possibly triggered by high salinity, may characterize an active GPD2 GPP domain. Understanding this mechanism(s) may provide insights into the rapid acclimation responses of microalgae to osmotic/salinity stress. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3909 KiB  
Article
Design and Development of Knowledge Graph for Industrial Chain Based on Deep Learning
by Yue Li, Yutian Lei, Yiting Yan, Chang Yin and Jiale Zhang
Electronics 2024, 13(8), 1539; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13081539 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper aims to structure and semantically describe the information within the industrial chain by constructing an Industry Chain Knowledge Graph (ICKG), enabling more efficient and intelligent information management and analysis. In more detail, this paper constructs a multi-domain industrial chain dataset and [...] Read more.
This paper aims to structure and semantically describe the information within the industrial chain by constructing an Industry Chain Knowledge Graph (ICKG), enabling more efficient and intelligent information management and analysis. In more detail, this paper constructs a multi-domain industrial chain dataset and proposes a method that combines the top-down establishment of a semantic expression framework with the bottom-up establishment of a data layer to build an ICKG. In the data layer, a deep learning algorithm based on BERT-BiLSTM-CRF is used to extract industry chain entities from relevant literature and reports. The results indicate that the model can effectively identify industry chain entities. These entities and relationships populate a Neo4j graph database, creating a large-scale ICKG for visual display and aiding cross-domain applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Knowledge Information Extraction Research)
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 4360 KiB  
Article
The Influence Mechanism of Quantum Well Growth and Annealing Temperature on In Migration and Stress Modulation Behavior
by Luyi Yan, Feng Liang, Jing Yang, Ping Chen, Desheng Jiang and Degang Zhao
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 703; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080703 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study explores the effects of growth temperature of InGaN/GaN quantum well (QW) layers on indium migration, structural quality, and luminescence properties. It is found that within a specific range, the growth temperature can control the efficiency of In incorporation into QWs and [...] Read more.
This study explores the effects of growth temperature of InGaN/GaN quantum well (QW) layers on indium migration, structural quality, and luminescence properties. It is found that within a specific range, the growth temperature can control the efficiency of In incorporation into QWs and strain energy accumulated in the QW structure, modulating the luminescence efficiency. Temperature-dependent photoluminescence (TDPL) measurements revealed a more pronounced localized state effect in QW samples grown at higher temperatures. Moreover, a too high annealing temperature will enhance indium migration, leading to an increased density of non-radiative recombination centers and a more pronounced quantum-confined Stark effect (QCSE), thereby reducing luminescence intensity. These findings highlight the critical role of thermal management in optimizing the performance of InGaN/GaN MQWs in LEDs and other photoelectronic devices. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 4572 KiB  
Article
Sub-Gigahertz Path Loss Measurement Campaign in Marine Environment: A Case Study
by Marco De Piante, Michele Midrio, Roberto Rinaldo, Ivan Scagnetto, Ruben Specogna and Francesco Trevisan
Sensors 2024, 24(8), 2582; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24082582 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper focuses on the characterization of radio propagation, and data communication in a marine environment. More specifically, we consider signal propagation when three different sub-gigahertz industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands, i.e., 169 MHz, 434 MHz, and 868 MHz, are used. The [...] Read more.
This paper focuses on the characterization of radio propagation, and data communication in a marine environment. More specifically, we consider signal propagation when three different sub-gigahertz industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands, i.e., 169 MHz, 434 MHz, and 868 MHz, are used. The main focus of the paper is to evaluate the path loss (PL), i.e., the power loss that a propagation radio wave would experience when communication occurs between a sail boat and a buoy. We describe the measurement results obtained performing three different radio power measurement campaigns, at the three different aforementioned ISM sub-gigahertz bands. We also want to correlate the radio propagation quality with the weather conditions present in the measurement areas. The obtained results show that higher distances are achieved by transmitting at lower frequencies, i.e., 169 MHz, and, on average, the propagation is directly dependent from the dew point index. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4432 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Blue Honeysuckle Berries (Lonicera caerulea L.) Dried at Different Temperatures: Basic Quality, Sensory Attributes, Bioactive Compounds, and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity
by Min Yu, Beibei Wang, Zhiqiang Huang, Jinjiao Lv, Yunfei Teng, Tianbo Li, Yu Zhang, Kun Dong, Dong Qin, Junwei Huo and Chenqiao Zhu
Foods 2024, 13(8), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13081240 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study aims to comprehensively investigate the effects of hot-air dehydration on the quality of blue honeysuckle berries (Lonicera caerulea L.). The results demonstrated that drying with hot air at 40–65 °C for 7–72 h resulted in blue honeysuckle berries with a [...] Read more.
This study aims to comprehensively investigate the effects of hot-air dehydration on the quality of blue honeysuckle berries (Lonicera caerulea L.). The results demonstrated that drying with hot air at 40–65 °C for 7–72 h resulted in blue honeysuckle berries with a moisture content of 0.21–1.10 g H2O/g dry weight. Generally, low to medium temperatures (40–55 °C) showed a better effect on the quality than high temperatures (60–65 °C). Specifically, drying at 40 °C exclusively resulted in better retention of cuticular wax, the best sensory appearance, and the highest total phenolic content. Drying at 45 °C and 50 °C resulted in the highest antioxidant capacity and the optimal sensory flavor. Drying at 55 °C led to the highest soluble solid/acid ratio, ascorbic acid concentration, total flavonoid, and total anthocyanin. The work introduces an innovative raw berry product and provides a comprehensive practical and theoretical framework for convective dehydration of blue honeysuckle berries. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 754 KiB  
Review
Detraining among Athletes—Is Withdrawal of Adaptive Cardiovascular Changes a Hint for the Differential Diagnosis of Physically Active People?
by Kinga Zujko-Kowalska, Karol Adam Kamiński and Łukasz Małek
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(8), 2343; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13082343 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
An athlete’s training aims to achieve the highest possible sports results by improving physical dispositions which lead to cardiac adaptive changes. The annual training cycle is divided into periods. The preparatory period begins with gradually increasing training intensity and volume until the competitive [...] Read more.
An athlete’s training aims to achieve the highest possible sports results by improving physical dispositions which lead to cardiac adaptive changes. The annual training cycle is divided into periods. The preparatory period begins with gradually increasing training intensity and volume until the competitive period occurs, when the athlete’s maximum performance is expected. Finally, the athlete enters a phase of loss of fitness, which is called detraining. Detraining is a time of resting both physically and mentally from the training regime and usually lasts about 4 weeks for endurance athletes. We collected data from much research on athletes’ detraining. According to these data, the earliest change after detraining seems to be a decrease in left ventricular wall thickness and left ventricular mass, followed by decreased performance parameters, diastolic diameter of the left ventricle and size of the left atrium. A reversal of adaptive changes affects the left heart chamber first, then the right atrium and, finally, the right ventricle. Training reduction is often proposed as a method of differentiating an athlete’s heart from cardiomyopathies. The aim of this study is to consider the diagnostic value of detraining in differentiating athletes’ hearts from cardiomyopathies. We suggest that detraining cannot be conclusive in differentiating the disease from adaptive changes. Although a withdrawal of the characteristic morphological, functional and electrocardiographic changes occurs in healthy athletes during detraining, it can also concern individuals with cardiomyopathies due to the lower expression of abnormal features after decreased training loads. Therefore, a quick diagnosis and individual assessments using imaging and genetic tests are essential to recommend a proper type of activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise and Sports Cardiology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 5628 KiB  
Article
A Practicable Guideline for Predicting the Thermal Conductivity of Unconsolidated Soils
by David Bertermann, Mario Rammler, Mark Wernsdorfer and Hannes Hagenauer
Soil Syst. 2024, 8(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems8020047 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
For large infrastructure projects, such as high-voltage underground cables or for evaluating the very shallow geothermal potential (vSGP) of small-scale horizontal geothermal systems, large-scale geothermal collector systems (LSCs), and fifth generation low temperature district heating and cooling networks (5GDHC), the thermal conductivity (λ) [...] Read more.
For large infrastructure projects, such as high-voltage underground cables or for evaluating the very shallow geothermal potential (vSGP) of small-scale horizontal geothermal systems, large-scale geothermal collector systems (LSCs), and fifth generation low temperature district heating and cooling networks (5GDHC), the thermal conductivity (λ) of the subsurface is a decisive soil parameter in terms of dimensioning and design. In the planning phase, when direct measurements of the thermal conductivity are not yet available or possible, λ must therefore often be estimated. Various empirical literature models can be used for this purpose, based on the knowledge of bulk density, moisture content, and grain size distribution. In this study, selected models were validated using 59 series of thermal conductivity measurements performed on soil samples taken from different sites in Germany. By considering different soil texture and moisture categories, a practicable guideline in the form of a decision tree, employed by empirical models to calculate the thermal conductivity of unconsolidated soils, was developed. The Hu et al. (2001) model showed the smallest deviations from the measured values for clayey and silty soils, with an RMSE value of 0.20 W/(m∙K). The Markert et al. (2017) model was determined to be the best-fitting model for sandy soils, with an RMSE value of 0.29 W/(m∙K). Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 2637 KiB  
Article
A Healthy Brazil Nut Beverage with Opuntia stricta var. dillenii Green Extract: Beverage Stability and Changes in Bioactives and Antioxidant Activity during Cold Storage
by Daniel A. Alvarado-López, Sara Parralejo-Sanz, M. Gloria Lobo and M. Pilar Cano
Foods 2024, 13(8), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13081237 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Plant-based beverages are one of the foods that currently arouse a lot of interest in the population due to their composition with compounds beneficial to health in addition to their being used as milk substitutes for people who suffer from food disorders. Also, [...] Read more.
Plant-based beverages are one of the foods that currently arouse a lot of interest in the population due to their composition with compounds beneficial to health in addition to their being used as milk substitutes for people who suffer from food disorders. Also, their fortification with different nutrients or healthy ingredients with the aim of improving plant-based health potential is actually gaining importance in the food industry. For this reason, the aim of the present investigation was the preparation of a healthy Brazil nut beverage enriched with Opuntia stricta var. dillenii pulp green extracts (ODPs), in order to produce a healthy plant-based beverage with improved nutritional characteristics. The microstructural characterization of the Brazil nut beverage, its stability during cold storage for up to 24 days at 5 °C, the composition of bioactive compounds provided via ODP extract (betalains and phenolic compounds), and their antioxidant activity were evaluated in this study. Green ODP extracts (0.5 and 1 g/100 g beverage) were added to a standardized Brazil nut beverage (reduced fat beverage). The characterization of the bioactive composition (betalains and phenolic compounds) of the elaborated beverage was achieved via HPLC (UV-vis and MS-QT of detection), and the antioxidant activity measurements via ORAC were also carried out. Optical microscopy, particle size, and Z potential analysis was conducted to characterize the structure of the Brazil nut beverages as food emulsions in which ODP extract was added. Most of the bioactive compounds from the green ODP extract added to the beverages showed good retention and remained stable throughout the 24 days of storage at 7 °C, with encapsulation efficiencies ranging from 98.34% to 92.35% for betalains and from 93.67% and 81.20% for phenolic compounds. According to the results of this study, Brazil nut beverage seems to be a healthy and efficient food emulsion system to encapsulate ODP extract rich in betalains and phenolic compounds, with high antioxidant activity, making possible the development of a Brazil nut beverage with improved health potential. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 4898 KiB  
Article
Abundant Species Govern the Altitude Patterns of Bacterial Community in Natural and Disturbed Subalpine Forest Soils
by Chaonan Li, Haijun Liao, Dehui Li and Yanli Jing
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040242 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Abundant and rare bacteria exhibit unequal responses to environmental changes and disturbances, potentially resulting in differential contributions to the altitudinal characteristics of total community in natural and disturbed soils. Although the altitude patterns of soil bacteria have been widely studied, it remains unclear [...] Read more.
Abundant and rare bacteria exhibit unequal responses to environmental changes and disturbances, potentially resulting in differential contributions to the altitudinal characteristics of total community in natural and disturbed soils. Although the altitude patterns of soil bacteria have been widely studied, it remains unclear whether these patterns are consistent among bacteria with varying predominance levels, and which subpopulation contributes more to maintaining these patterns in natural and disturbed subalpine forest soils. In this study, we collected 18 natural subalpine forest soil samples and 18 disturbed ones from three altitudes (2900 m a.s.l., 3102 m a.s.l., and 3194 m a.s.l.) along the Wenma highway in Miyaluo, Lixian, Sichuan, Southwest China. By partitioning total bacterial communities based on species predominance, we found that bacteria with higher predominance levels tended to exhibit altitude patterns (α-diversity, community structure, and functional redundancy) similar to those of total bacteria in both natural and disturbed subalpine forest soils, although they only occupied a small portion of the community. Abundant bacteria might play critical roles in maintaining the regional ecological characteristics of total community across the altitude gradient, while the rare and hyper-rare ones might contribute more to local diversity and functional redundancy. In natural soils, the altitude patterns of α-diversity inferred from total, abundant, and rare bacteria were mainly shaped by NO3-N, while soil conductivity mainly drove the altitude patterns of α-diversity inferred from hyper-rare bacteria. Additionally, the community structures of total, abundant, rare, and hyper-rare bacteria were mainly shaped by NO3-N, while the altitude patterns of functional redundancy inferred from total, abundant, and rare bacteria were mainly shaped by soil conductivity in natural soils. In disturbed subalpine forest soils, the influences of NO3-N for the altitude patterns of α-diversity and community structure, and those of soil conductivity for functional redundancy, were relatively weak in total, abundant, rare, and hyper-rare bacteria. This study examined the roles of bacteria with varying predominance levels in maintaining the altitude pattern of bacteria in both natural and disturbed subalpine forest soils, providing novel insights for devising strategies to conserve biodiversity and ecologically restore disturbed soils in subalpine ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbiota Diversity in Plants and Forest)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 19897 KiB  
Article
Time-Varying GPS Displacement Network Modeling by Sequential Monte Carlo
by Suchanun Piriyasatit, Ercan Engin Kuruoglu and Mehmet Sinan Ozeren
Entropy 2024, 26(4), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26040342 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Geodetic observations through high-rate GPS time-series data allow the precise modeling of slow ground deformation at the millimeter level. However, significant attention has been devoted to utilizing these data for various earth science applications, including to determine crustal velocity fields and to detect [...] Read more.
Geodetic observations through high-rate GPS time-series data allow the precise modeling of slow ground deformation at the millimeter level. However, significant attention has been devoted to utilizing these data for various earth science applications, including to determine crustal velocity fields and to detect significant displacement from earthquakes. The relationships inherent in these GPS displacement observations have not been fully explored. This study employs the sequential Monte Carlo method, specifically particle filtering (PF), to develop a time-varying analysis of the relationships among GPS displacement time-series within a network, with the aim of uncovering network dynamics. Additionally, we introduce a proposed graph representation to enhance the understanding of these relationships. Using the 1-Hz GEONET GNSS network data of the Tohoku-Oki Mw9.0 2011 as a demonstration, the results demonstrate successful parameter tracking that clarifies the observations’ underlying dynamics. These findings have potential applications in detecting anomalous displacements in the future. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2250 KiB  
Article
DTONet a Lightweight Model for Melanoma Segmentation
by Shengnan Hao, Hongzan Wang, Rui Chen, Qinping Liao, Zhanlin Ji, Tao Lyu and Li Zhao
Bioengineering 2024, 11(4), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11040390 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
With the further development of neural networks, automatic segmentation techniques for melanoma are becoming increasingly mature, especially under the conditions of abundant hardware resources. This allows for the accuracy of segmentation to be improved by increasing the complexity and computational capacity of the [...] Read more.
With the further development of neural networks, automatic segmentation techniques for melanoma are becoming increasingly mature, especially under the conditions of abundant hardware resources. This allows for the accuracy of segmentation to be improved by increasing the complexity and computational capacity of the model. However, a new problem arises when it comes to actual applications, as there may not be the high-end hardware available, especially in hospitals and among the general public, who may have limited computing resources. In response to this situation, this paper proposes a lightweight deep learning network that can achieve high segmentation accuracy with minimal resource consumption. We introduce a network called DTONet (double-tailed octave network), which was specifically designed for this purpose. Its computational parameter count is only 30,859, which is 1/256th of the mainstream UNet model. Despite its reduced complexity, DTONet demonstrates superior performance in terms of accuracy, with an IOU improvement over other similar models. To validate the generalization capability of this model, we conducted tests on the PH2 dataset, and the results still outperformed existing models. Therefore, the proposed DTONet network exhibits excellent generalization ability and is sufficiently outstanding. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Deep Learning in Medical Diagnosis)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2621 KiB  
Article
Study of Dispersed Repeats in the Cyanidioschyzon merolae Genome
by Valentina Rudenko and Eugene Korotkov
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4441; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084441 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this study, we applied the iterative procedure (IP) method to search for families of highly diverged dispersed repeats in the genome of Cyanidioschyzon merolae, which contains over 16 million bases. The algorithm included the construction of position weight matrices (PWMs) for [...] Read more.
In this study, we applied the iterative procedure (IP) method to search for families of highly diverged dispersed repeats in the genome of Cyanidioschyzon merolae, which contains over 16 million bases. The algorithm included the construction of position weight matrices (PWMs) for repeat families and the identification of more dispersed repeats based on the PWMs using dynamic programming. The results showed that the C. merolae genome contained 20 repeat families comprising a total of 33,938 dispersed repeats, which is significantly more than has been previously found using other methods. The repeats varied in length from 108 to 600 bp (522.54 bp in average) and occupied more than 72% of the C. merolae genome, whereas previously identified repeats, including tandem repeats, have been shown to constitute only about 28%. The high genomic content of dispersed repeats and their location in the coding regions suggest a significant role in the regulation of the functional activity of the genome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Phylogenomics and Genetic Diversity 2.0)
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 213 KiB  
Editorial
Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys (Volume 2)
by Andrea Di Schino and Claudio Testani
Metals 2024, 14(4), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14040473 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Microstructure design is key in targeting the desired material’s properties [...] Full article
13 pages, 225 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Online Theological Studies during the COVID-19 Period on Students’ Religiosity/Spirituality: A Qualitative Analysis
by Viktória Šoltésová and Marek Harastej
Religions 2024, 15(4), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15040500 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Our study wants to clarify the structure of spirituality by applying existing multidimensional theories of religiosity and spirituality to in-depth interviews conducted among a sample of students. The current research analyzes 15 qualitative semi-structured interviews conducted among a sample of students at the [...] Read more.
Our study wants to clarify the structure of spirituality by applying existing multidimensional theories of religiosity and spirituality to in-depth interviews conducted among a sample of students. The current research analyzes 15 qualitative semi-structured interviews conducted among a sample of students at the Adventist Theological Institute in the Czech Republic and was conducted in May 2022. Since religiosity is a multidimensional phenomenon and we wished to investigate development in each dimension, we based our analyses on Glock and Stark’s model with four of their dimensions of religiosity: “belief”, “practice”, “experience”, and “knowledge”. Our study reflects on existing multidimensional religiosity/spirituality; six dimensions by Huber overlap with the religiosity/spirituality model we chose as the applied multidimensional model. As a result, based on the interviewees’ statements, we distinguished these dimensions in the context of specific conditions in the respondents’ individual personal experiences in the absence of personal group interaction. In our research, we ask the question: “What impact has the move of the entire formal and informal environment of an educational institution to an online environment had on the spirituality of each student?” An important finding is that the COVID-19 pandemic period brought about an exciting stimulus for spiritual support in theological education. The emergence of individual and independent religiosity/spirituality is a significant religious change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Child and Adolescent Spirituality/Religiosity and Religious Education)
14 pages, 2506 KiB  
Review
Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis: A Biological Advantage or a Missed Diagnosis?
by Camille Crane, Caleb Wagner, Stephen Wong, Bryce Hall, Jillian Hull, Katharine Irwin, Kaitlin Williams and Amanda Brooks
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(8), 2341; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13082341 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is commonly diagnosed in the aging population. Interestingly, the lower extremity joints have a higher published incidence of osteoarthritis than the upper extremity joints. Although much is known about the disease process, it remains [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is commonly diagnosed in the aging population. Interestingly, the lower extremity joints have a higher published incidence of osteoarthritis than the upper extremity joints. Although much is known about the disease process, it remains unclear why some joints are more affected than others. (2) Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted utilizing the search engines PubMed, Google Scholar, and Elsevier from 2014 to 2024, directing our search to osteoarthritis of various joints, with the focus being on glenohumeral osteoarthritis. (3) Results and Discussion: The literature review revealed a publication difference, which may be explained by the inconsistency in classification systems utilized in the diagnosis of shoulder osteoarthritis. For instance, there are six classification systems employed in the diagnosis of glenohumeral osteoarthritis, making the true incidence and, therefore, the prevalence unobtainable. Furthermore, susceptibility to osteoarthritis in various joints is complicated by factors such as joint anatomy, weight-bearing status, and prior injuries to the joint. (4) Conclusions: This review reveals the lack of understanding of shoulder osteoarthritis’s true incidence and prevalence while considering the anatomy and biomechanics of the glenohumeral joint. In addition, this is the first paper to suggest a single criterion for the diagnosis of glenohumeral osteoarthritis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

7 pages, 1059 KiB  
Short Note
Diiodido-bis{N-[2-(diphenylphosphino)benzylidene]benzylamine-κ2N,P}dicopper(I)
by Julian Süß, Uwe Monkowius and Manfred Zabel
Molbank 2024, 2024(2), M1808; https://doi.org/10.3390/M1808 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
The one-pot template reaction between 2-(diphenylphosphino)benzaldehyde, benzylamine and copper(I) iodide yields the dinuclear copper complex (P∩N)2Cu2I2, as revealed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Structure Determination)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 6979 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Experimental Biaxial Surface Wrinkling Pattern Based on Direct 3D Numerical Simulation
by Seonho Seok, HyungDal Park and Jinseok Kim
Micromachines 2024, 15(4), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15040543 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper presents a direct 3D numerical simulation of biaxial surface wrinkling of thin metal film on a compliant substrate. The selected compliant substrate is a commercial Scotch tape on which a gold metal thin film has been transferred by using low adhesion [...] Read more.
This paper presents a direct 3D numerical simulation of biaxial surface wrinkling of thin metal film on a compliant substrate. The selected compliant substrate is a commercial Scotch tape on which a gold metal thin film has been transferred by using low adhesion between the thin metal film and polyimide substrate. Compared with the previous fabrication of a cylindrical thin-film wrinkling pattern, an undulated wrinkling pattern has been implemented by increasing the width of the thin metal film in order to create biaxial straining in the thin film. To understand the wrinkling behavior due to biaxial loading, a simple direct numerical simulation based on material imperfections defined in the compliant substrate has been conducted. Through modeling and simulation, it was found that the wrinkling mode is determined by the biaxiality ratio (BR), the ratio between transversal strain and longitudinal strain. Depending on the BR, the wrinkling mode belongs to one of the cylindrical, undulated (or herringbone), checkerboard, or labyrinth modes as a function of applied strain. The cylindrical wrinkling is dominant at the input of BR less than 0.5, while the undulated (or herringbone) ones become dominant just after the onset of the wrinkling pattern at BR greater than 0.9. Through the comparison of the wrinkling patterns between simulation and experiment, the applied BR of the fabricated thin film has been successfully estimated. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 4806 KiB  
Article
Biological and Mechanical Performance of Dual-Setting Brushite–Silica Gel Cements
by Valentin C. Steinacker, Tobias Renner, Ib Holzmeister, Sebastian Gubik, Urs Müller-Richter, Niko Breitenbücher, Andreas Fuchs, Anton Straub, Mario Scheurer, Alexander C. Kübler and Uwe Gbureck
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040108 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Bone defects resulting from trauma, diseases, or surgical procedures pose significant challenges in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The development of effective bone substitute materials that promote bone healing and regeneration is crucial for successful clinical outcomes. Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) [...] Read more.
Bone defects resulting from trauma, diseases, or surgical procedures pose significant challenges in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The development of effective bone substitute materials that promote bone healing and regeneration is crucial for successful clinical outcomes. Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) have emerged as promising candidates for bone replacement due to their biocompatibility, bioactivity, and ability to integrate with host tissues. However, there is a continuous demand for further improvements in the mechanical properties, biodegradability, and bioactivity of these materials. Dual setting of cements is one way to improve the performance of CPCs. Therefore, silicate matrices can be incorporated in these cements. Silicate-based materials have shown great potential in various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering and drug delivery systems. In the context of bone regeneration, silicate matrices offer unique advantages such as improved mechanical stability, controlled release of bioactive ions, and enhanced cellular responses. Comprehensive assessments of both the material properties and biological responses of our samples were conducted. Cytocompatibility was assessed through in vitro testing using osteoblastic (MG-63) and osteoclastic (RAW 264.7) cell lines. Cell activity on the surfaces was quantified, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to capture images of the RAW cells. In our study, incorporation of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) in dual-curing cements significantly enhanced physical properties, attributed to increased crosslinking density and reduced pore size. Higher alkoxysilyl group concentration improved biocompatibility by facilitating greater crosslinking. Additionally, our findings suggest citrate’s potential as an alternative retarder due to its positive interaction with the silicate matrix, offering insights for future dental material research. This paper aims to provide an overview of the importance of silicate matrices as modifiers for calcium phosphate cements, focusing on their impact on the mechanical properties, setting behaviour, and biocompatibility of the resulting composites. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 374 KiB  
Review
Potential Diagnostic and Clinical Significance of Selected Genetic Alterations in Glioblastoma
by Silvia Tomoszková, Jozef Škarda and Radim Lipina
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4438; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084438 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Glioblastoma is currently considered the most common and, unfortunately, also the most aggressive primary brain tumor, with the highest morbidity and mortality rates. The average survival of patients diagnosed with glioblastoma is 14 months, and only 2% of patients survive 3 years after [...] Read more.
Glioblastoma is currently considered the most common and, unfortunately, also the most aggressive primary brain tumor, with the highest morbidity and mortality rates. The average survival of patients diagnosed with glioblastoma is 14 months, and only 2% of patients survive 3 years after surgery. Based on our clinical experience and knowledge from extensive clinical studies, survival is mainly related to the molecular biological properties of glioblastoma, which are of interest to the general medical community. Our study examined a total of 71 retrospective studies published from 2016 through 2022 and available on PubMed that deal with mutations of selected genes in the pathophysiology of GBM. In conclusion, we can find other mutations within a given gene group that have different effects on the prognosis and quality of survival of a patient with glioblastoma. These mutations, together with the associated mutations of other genes, as well as intratumoral heterogeneity itself, offer enormous potential for further clinical research and possible application in therapeutic practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics and Molecular Research on Glioblastoma)
15 pages, 6806 KiB  
Article
Use of Phase-Angle Model for Full-Field 3D Reconstruction under Efficient Local Calibration
by Fengxiao Lei, Ruijie Ma and Xinghui Li
Sensors 2024, 24(8), 2581; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24082581 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Currently, 3D reconstruction methods in structured light are generally implemented in a pre-calibrated area. To realize a full-field reconstruction, the calibration plate can be moved to multiple positions in a time-consuming manner, or the whole field can be calibrated with the help of [...] Read more.
Currently, 3D reconstruction methods in structured light are generally implemented in a pre-calibrated area. To realize a full-field reconstruction, the calibration plate can be moved to multiple positions in a time-consuming manner, or the whole field can be calibrated with the help of a large calibration plate, which is more costly. In this paper, we address this problem by proposing a method for obtaining a global phase-angle model under a locally calibrated region, and based on this relationship, we investigate and analyze the reconstruction inside and outside of the calibrated zone. The results show that the method can reconstruct the object outside of the calibration zone completely, and can keep the planarity error around 0.1 mm and the sphericity error below 0.06 mm. The method only requires local calibration of the projected fringes at the two calibration positions to realize the 3D reconstruction of the full-field, which makes the method more advantageous. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensing and Imaging)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 4556 KiB  
Article
Microporous Adsorbent-Based Mixed Matrix Membranes for CO2/N2 Separation
by Suboohi Shervani, Lara P. Tansug and F. Handan Tezel
Energies 2024, 17(8), 1927; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17081927 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
As the atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration rapidly rises, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is an emerging field for climate change mitigation. Various carbon capture technologies are in development with the help of adsorbents, membranes, solvent-based systems, etc. One of [...] Read more.
As the atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration rapidly rises, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is an emerging field for climate change mitigation. Various carbon capture technologies are in development with the help of adsorbents, membranes, solvent-based systems, etc. One of the main challenges in this field is the removal of CO2 from nitrogen (N2) gas. This paper focuses on mixed matrix membrane technology, for which the CO2/N2 separation performance is based on differences in gas permeations. Membrane separation and purification technologies are widely studied for carbon capture. Microporous adsorbents such as zeolites and metal organic frameworks (MOFs) for carbon capture have been attracting researchers’ attention due to their highly porous structures, high selectivity values, and tunable porosities. Utilizing microporous adsorbents dispersed within a novel, blended polymer matrix, fourteen membranes were prepared with the commercial MOF ZIF-8, zeolite 13X, and kaolin, with methyl cellulose (MC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), which were tested using a single gas permeation setup in this study. The addition of polyallylamine (PAH) as a chemisorbent was also investigated. These membranes were synthesized both with and without a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) support to compare their performances. MC was found to be an ideal polymeric matrix component to develop free-standing MMMs. At 24 °C and a relatively low feed pressure of 2.36 atm, a free-standing zeolite-13X-based membrane (MC/PAH/13X/PVA) exhibited the highest N2/CO2 selectivity of 2.8, with a very high N2 permeability of 6.9 × 107 Barrer. Upon the optimization of active layer thickness and filler weight percentages, this easily fabricated free-standing MMM made of readily available materials is a promising candidate for CO2 purification through nitrogen removal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Technologies in Environment and Energy)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3043 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Sex and Different Repetition Maximums on Kinematics and Surface Electromyography in the Last Repetition of the Barbell Back Squat
by Andreas Hegdahl Gundersen, Hallvard Nygaard Falch, Andrea Bao Fredriksen and Roland van den Tillaar
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(2), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9020075 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
During the ascent phase of a maximal barbell back squat after an initial acceleration, a deceleration region occurs as the result of different biomechanical factors. This is known as the sticking region. However, whether this region is similar in the last repetition of [...] Read more.
During the ascent phase of a maximal barbell back squat after an initial acceleration, a deceleration region occurs as the result of different biomechanical factors. This is known as the sticking region. However, whether this region is similar in the last repetition of different repetition maximums and if sex has an impact on biomechanics of this region are not known. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of sex (men/women) and repetition maximum (1-, 3-, 6-, and 10RM) on kinematics and surface electromyography around the sticking region. Twenty-six resistance-trained individuals comprising 13 men (body mass: 82.2 ± 8.7; age: 23.6 ± 1.9; height: 181.1 ± 6.5) and 13 women (body mass: 63.6 ± 6.6; age: 23.9 ± 4.5; height: 166.0 ± 4.5) participated in the study. The main findings were that women, in comparison to men, displayed larger trunk lean and lower hip extension angles in the sticking region, possibly due to different hip/knee extensor strength ratios. Moreover, an inverse relationship was discovered between repetition range and timing from V0 to Vmax2, in which lower repetition ranges (1- and 3RM) were shorter in Vmax2 compared to higher ranges (6- and 10RM). It was concluded that this occurrence is due to more moments of inertia in lower repetition ranges. Our findings suggest that both sex and repetition range might induce different requirements during the squat ascent. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 7019 KiB  
Review
The Removal of Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances from Water: A Review on Destructive and Non-Destructive Methods
by Natalia Malouchi, Stella Chatzimichailidou, Athanasia K. Tolkou, George Z. Kyzas, Loris Calgaro, Antonio Marcomini and Ioannis A. Katsoyiannis
Separations 2024, 11(4), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11040122 (registering DOI) - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
PFAS, or per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a broad group of man-made organic compounds that are very persistent, mobile, and tend to bioaccumulate. Their removal from different environmental media is becoming increasingly important because they are associated with a multitude of (eco)toxicological effects [...] Read more.
PFAS, or per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a broad group of man-made organic compounds that are very persistent, mobile, and tend to bioaccumulate. Their removal from different environmental media is becoming increasingly important because they are associated with a multitude of (eco)toxicological effects on both humans and the environment. PFAS are detected in wastewater, groundwater, drinking water, and surface water, with the subcategories of PFOS and PFOA being the most detected. These organic compounds are divided into polymeric and non-polymeric groups. Non-polymeric PFAS are of great research interest due to their frequent detection in the environment. Numerous methods have been applied for the removal of PFAS and are divided into destructive and non-destructive (separation) techniques. Given the strength of the C–F bond, the destruction of PFAS is challenging, while for most of the separation techniques, the management of isolated PFAS requires further consideration. Most of the techniques have been applied to small-scale applications and show some limitations for larger applications, even though they are promising. Adsorption is an environmentally sustainable, economical, and high-performance technique that is applied to remove several classes of emerging pollutants from water. In this review, the use of various types of adsorbents for PFAS removal from water is reported, as well as the expected adsorption mechanisms. There are several technologies being considered and developed to manage PFAS; however, they are still in the experimental stage, with each showing its appeal for potential larger applications. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Open Access Journals

Browse by Indexing Browse by Subject Selected Journals
Back to TopTop