The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
11 pages, 640 KiB  
Article
Photoaging Elevated the Genotoxicity of Polystyrene Microplastics to Marine Mussel Mytilus trossulus (Gould, 1850)
by Victor Pavlovich Chelomin, Valentina Vladimirovna Slobodskova, Nadezhda Vladimirovna Dovzhenko, Andrey Alexandrovich Mazur and Sergey Petrovich Kukla
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 5740; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25115740 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Micro-sized particles of synthetic polymers (microplastics) are found in all parts of marine ecosystems. This fact requires intensive study of the degree of danger of such particles to the life activity of hydrobionts and needs additional research. It is evident that hydrobionts in [...] Read more.
Micro-sized particles of synthetic polymers (microplastics) are found in all parts of marine ecosystems. This fact requires intensive study of the degree of danger of such particles to the life activity of hydrobionts and needs additional research. It is evident that hydrobionts in the marine environment are exposed to microplastics modified by biotic and abiotic degradation. To assess the toxic potential of aging microplastic, comparative studies were conducted on the response of cytochemical and genotoxic markers in hemocytes of the mussel Mytilus trossulus (Gould, 1850) after exposure to pristine and photodegraded (UV irradiation) polystyrene microparticles (µPS). The results of cytochemical tests showed that UV-irradiated µPS strongly reduced metabolism and destabilized lysosome membranes compared to pristine µPS. Using a Comet assay, it was shown that the nuclear DNA of mussel hemocytes showed high sensitivity to exposure to both types of plastics. However, the level of DNA damage was significantly higher in mussels exposed to aging µPS. It is suggested that the mechanism of increased toxicity of photo-oxidized µPS is based on free-radical reactions induced by the UV irradiation of polymers. The risks of toxic effects will be determined by the level of physicochemical degradation of the polymer, which can significantly affect the mechanisms of toxicity. Full article
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24 pages, 7169 KiB  
Article
An Improved WOA (Whale Optimization Algorithm)-Based CNN-BIGRU-CBAM Model and Its Application to Short-Term Power Load Forecasting
by Lei Dai and Haiying Wang
Energies 2024, 17(11), 2559; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112559 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The accuracy requirements for short-term power load forecasting have been increasing due to the rapid development of the electric power industry. Nevertheless, the short-term load exhibits both elasticity and instability characteristics, posing challenges for accurate load forecasting. Meanwhile, the traditional prediction model suffers [...] Read more.
The accuracy requirements for short-term power load forecasting have been increasing due to the rapid development of the electric power industry. Nevertheless, the short-term load exhibits both elasticity and instability characteristics, posing challenges for accurate load forecasting. Meanwhile, the traditional prediction model suffers from the issues of inadequate precision and inefficient training. In this work, a proposed model called IWOA-CNN-BIGRU-CBAM is introduced. To solve the problem of the Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE) attention mechanism’s inability to collect information in the spatial dimension effectively, the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) is firstly introduced as a replacement. This change aims to enhance the ability to capture location attributes. Subsequently, we propose an improved Whale Optimization Algorithm (IWOA) that addresses its limitations, such as heavy reliance on the initial solution and susceptibility to local optimum solutions. The proposed IWOA is also applied for the hyperparameter optimization of the Convolutional Neural Network–Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit–Convolutional Block Attention Module (CNN-BiGRU-CBAM) to improve the precision of predictions. Ultimately, applying the proposed model to forecast short-term power demand yields results that show that the CBAM effectively addresses the problem of the SE attention mechanism’s inability to capture spatial characteristics fully. The proposed IWOA exhibits a homogeneous dispersion of the initial population and an effective capability to identify the optimal solution. Compared to other models, the proposed model improves R2 by 0.00224, reduces the RMSE by 18.5781, and reduces MAE by 25.8940, and the model’s applicability and superiority are validated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Simulation, Optimization and Intelligent Control of Energy System)
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12 pages, 407 KiB  
Article
Mood Alternation with Adverbs of Uncertainty in Galician: A Multifactorial Analysis
by Vítor Míguez
Languages 2024, 9(6), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages9060195 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the factors that significantly constrain mood selection in Galician within uncertainty adverb constructions, applying a logistic regression model. This analysis identified several significant factors affecting the choice between the indicative and subjunctive moods, including the temporal context of the clause, [...] Read more.
This study investigates the factors that significantly constrain mood selection in Galician within uncertainty adverb constructions, applying a logistic regression model. This analysis identified several significant factors affecting the choice between the indicative and subjunctive moods, including the temporal context of the clause, the preceding adverb, and the interaction of fictional and nonfictional registers with the verb type of the predicate and the gender of the speaker/writer. Time reference and the preceding adverb emerged as primary factors conditioning mood choice, with present and future time frames and adverbs encoding weaker epistemic values significantly predisposing toward the subjunctive mood. This study also highlighted the influence of the gender of the speaker/writer, demonstrating the preference of women toward the indicative mood in fictional texts. Verb type and register interact in complex ways that only partially align with previous findings. The results of the present study contribute to a deeper understanding of syntactic variation in Galician, adding to a growing body of quantitative research on Galician grammar. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Developments in Galician Linguistics)
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20 pages, 1484 KiB  
Review
3-Chymotrypsin-like Protease (3CLpro) of SARS-CoV-2: Validation as a Molecular Target, Proposal of a Novel Catalytic Mechanism, and Inhibitors in Preclinical and Clinical Trials
by Vitor Martins de Freitas Amorim, Eduardo Pereira Soares, Anielle Salviano de Almeida Ferrari, Davi Gabriel Salustiano Merighi, Robson Francisco de Souza, Cristiane Rodrigues Guzzo and Anacleto Silva de Souza
Viruses 2024, 16(6), 844; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16060844 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Proteases represent common targets in combating infectious diseases, including COVID-19. The 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) is a validated molecular target for COVID-19, and it is key for developing potent and selective inhibitors for inhibiting viral replication of SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we discuss structural [...] Read more.
Proteases represent common targets in combating infectious diseases, including COVID-19. The 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) is a validated molecular target for COVID-19, and it is key for developing potent and selective inhibitors for inhibiting viral replication of SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we discuss structural relationships and diverse subsites of 3CLpro, shedding light on the pivotal role of dimerization and active site architecture in substrate recognition and catalysis. Our analysis of bioinformatics and other published studies motivated us to investigate a novel catalytic mechanism for the SARS-CoV-2 polyprotein cleavage by 3CLpro, centering on the triad mechanism involving His41-Cys145-Asp187 and its indispensable role in viral replication. Our hypothesis is that Asp187 may participate in modulating the pKa of the His41, in which catalytic histidine may act as an acid and/or a base in the catalytic mechanism. Recognizing Asp187 as a crucial component in the catalytic process underscores its significance as a fundamental pharmacophoric element in drug design. Next, we provide an overview of both covalent and non-covalent inhibitors, elucidating advancements in drug development observed in preclinical and clinical trials. By highlighting various chemical classes and their pharmacokinetic profiles, our review aims to guide future research directions toward the development of highly selective inhibitors, underscore the significance of 3CLpro as a validated therapeutic target, and propel the progression of drug candidates through preclinical and clinical phases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coronaviruses Pathogenesis, Immunity, and Antivirals)
18 pages, 1902 KiB  
Article
Target Detection for Coloring and Ripening Potted Dwarf Apple Fruits Based on Improved YOLOv7-RSES
by Haoran Ma, Yanwen Li, Xiaoying Zhang, Yaoyu Li, Zhenqi Li, Runqing Zhang, Qian Zhao and Renjie Hao
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4523; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114523 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Dwarf apple is one of the most important forms of garden economy, which has become a new engine for rural revitalization. The effective detection of coloring and ripening apples in complex environments is important for the sustainable development of smart agricultural operations. Addressing [...] Read more.
Dwarf apple is one of the most important forms of garden economy, which has become a new engine for rural revitalization. The effective detection of coloring and ripening apples in complex environments is important for the sustainable development of smart agricultural operations. Addressing the issues of low detection efficiency in the greenhouse and the challenges associated with deploying complex target detection algorithms on low-cost equipment, we propose an enhanced lightweight model rooted in YOLOv7. Firstly, we enhance the model training performance by incorporating the Squeeze-and-Excite attention mechanism, which can enhance feature extraction capability. Then, an SCYLLA-IoU (SIoU) loss function is introduced to improve the ability of extracting occluded objects in complex environments. Finally, the model was simplified by introducing depthwise separable convolution and adding a ghost module after up-sampling layers. The improved YOLOv7 model has the highest AP value, which is 10.00%, 5.61%, and 6.00% higher compared to YOLOv5, YOLOv7, and YOLOX, respectively. The improved YOLOv7 model has an MAP value of 95.65%, which provides higher apple detection accuracy compared to other detection models and is suitable for potted dwarf anvil apple identification and detection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Computer Vision in Industry and Agriculture)
19 pages, 910 KiB  
Article
Identification of Gut Microbiome Signatures Associated with Indole Pathway in Tryptophan Metabolism in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
by Jih-Kai Huang, Ping-Hsun Wu, Zhao-Feng Chen, Po-Yu Liu, Cheng-Chin Kuo, Yun-Shiuan Chuang, Meng-Zhan Lu, Mei-Chuan Kuo, Yi-Wen Chiu and Yi-Ting Lin
Biomolecules 2024, 14(6), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14060623 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Microbiota tryptophan metabolism and the biosynthesis of indole derivatives play an important role in homeostasis and pathogenesis in the human body and can be affected by the gut microbiota. However, studies on the interplay between gut microbiota and tryptophan metabolites in patients undergoing [...] Read more.
Microbiota tryptophan metabolism and the biosynthesis of indole derivatives play an important role in homeostasis and pathogenesis in the human body and can be affected by the gut microbiota. However, studies on the interplay between gut microbiota and tryptophan metabolites in patients undergoing dialysis are lacking. This study aimed to identify the gut microbiota, the indole pathway in tryptophan metabolism, and significant functional differences in ESRD patients with regular hemodialysis. We performed the shotgun metagenome sequencing of stool samples from 85 hemodialysis patients. Using the linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe), we examined the composition of the gut microbiota and metabolic features across varying concentrations of tryptophan and indole metabolites. Higher tryptophan levels promoted tyrosine degradation I and pectin degradation I metabolic modules; lower tryptophan levels were associated with glutamate degradation I, fructose degradation, and valine degradation modules. Higher 3-indoxyl sulfate concentrations were characterized by alanine degradation I, anaerobic fatty acid beta-oxidation, sulfate reduction, and acetyl-CoA to crotonyl-CoA. Contrarily, lower 3-indoxyl sulfate levels were related to propionate production III, arabinoxylan degradation, the Entner–Doudoroff pathway, and glutamate degradation II. The present study provides a better understanding of the interaction between tryptophan, indole metabolites, and the gut microbiota as well as their gut metabolic modules in ESRD patients with regular hemodialysis. Full article
19 pages, 7390 KiB  
Article
The Museums of Geology and Paleontology as Geoeducational Learning Environments for Raising Climate Change Awareness
by Christina Kondyli, Maria Psychogiou and Hara Drinia
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4481; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114481 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Museums are called to respond to contemporary challenges and contribute to the formation of more progressive societies. One of the major challenges of our time is climate change and sustainability, and museums could construct cocreated narratives around climate and implement targeted actions for [...] Read more.
Museums are called to respond to contemporary challenges and contribute to the formation of more progressive societies. One of the major challenges of our time is climate change and sustainability, and museums could construct cocreated narratives around climate and implement targeted actions for the audiences through their sensorial and affective experiences. More specifically, Geology and Paleontology museums are repositories of knowledge on geoheritage and geoconservation, recognized for their scientific, pedagogical, cultural, and recreational values. The educational potential of geological and paleontological exhibits could be used in informal education activities regarding the climate emergency and the need for sustainability. Taking the above into consideration, this study focuses on both the creation and the evaluation of an educational program for the Natural History Museum of Arsakeio Campus in Psychicko. According to our findings, students really enjoyed their experience in the Museum, gained knowledge regarding mass extinctions driven by climate change, and suggested ways to tackle the current problems and promote our planet’s sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change Education and Sustainability Learning)
24 pages, 17348 KiB  
Article
Can We Rely on Prophylactic Two-Level Vertebral Cement Augmentation in Long-Segment Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery to Reduce the Incidence of Proximal Junctional Complications?
by Yoichi Tani, Nobuhiro Naka, Naoto Ono, Koki Kawashima, Masaaki Paku, Masayuki Ishihara, Takashi Adachi, Muneharu Ando, Shinichirou Taniguchi and Takanori Saito
Medicina 2024, 60(6), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60060860 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and failure (PJF), the most prevalent complications following long-segment thoracolumbar fusions for adult spinal deformity (ASD), remain lacking in defined preventive measures. We studied whether one of the previously reported strategies with successful results—a prophylactic [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and failure (PJF), the most prevalent complications following long-segment thoracolumbar fusions for adult spinal deformity (ASD), remain lacking in defined preventive measures. We studied whether one of the previously reported strategies with successful results—a prophylactic augmentation of the uppermost instrumented vertebra (UIV) and supra-adjacent vertebra to the UIV (UIV + 1) with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)—could also serve as a preventive measure of PJK/PJF in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Materials and Methods: The study included 29 ASD patients who underwent a combination of minimally invasive lateral lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-LLIF) at L1-2 through L4-5, all-pedicle-screw instrumentation from the lower thoracic spine to the sacrum, S2-alar-iliac fixation, and two-level balloon-assisted PMMA vertebroplasty at the UIV and UIV + 1. Results: With a minimum 3-year follow-up, non-PJK/PJF group accounted for fifteen patients (52%), PJK for eight patients (28%), and PJF requiring surgical revision for six patients (21%). We had a total of seven patients with proximal junctional fracture, even though no patients showed implant/bone interface failure with screw pullout, probably through the effect of PMMA. In contrast to the PJK cohort, six PJF patients all had varying degrees of neurologic deficits from modified Frankel grade C to D3, which recovered to grades D3 and to grade D2 in three patients each, after a revision operation of proximal extension of instrumented fusion with or without neural decompression. None of the possible demographic and radiologic risk factors showed statistical differences between the non-PJK/PJF, PJK, and PJF groups. Conclusions: Compared with the traditional open surgical approach used in the previous studies with a positive result for the prophylactic two-level cement augmentation, the MIS procedures with substantial benefits to patients in terms of less access-related morbidity and less blood loss also provide a greater segmental stability, which, however, may have a negative effect on the development of PJK/PJF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)
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15 pages, 3687 KiB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Literature Review on Inflammatory Markers in the Saliva of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Cause or a Consequence of Periodontal Diseases
by Vasile Calin Arcas, Ioan Andrei Tig, Doru Florian Cornel Moga, Alexandra Lavinia Vlad, Corina Roman-Filip and Anca Maria Fratila
Medicina 2024, 60(6), 859; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60060859 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease often linked with systemic conditions such as periodontal diseases (PDs). This systematic review aims to explore the association between inflammatory markers in saliva and PDs in MS patients, assessing the use [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease often linked with systemic conditions such as periodontal diseases (PDs). This systematic review aims to explore the association between inflammatory markers in saliva and PDs in MS patients, assessing the use of saliva as a non-invasive tool to monitor disease progression. Materials and Methods: 82 publications were examined after a thorough search of scholarly databases to determine whether inflammatory markers were present in MS patients and whether they were associated with periodontal disease (PD). Quality and bias were assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale, resulting in eight articles that were thoroughly analyzed. Results: The results point to a strong correlation between MS and periodontal disorders, which may point to the same pathophysiological mechanism. It does, however, underscore the necessity of additional study to determine a definitive causal association. Conclusions: The findings indicate a strong association between MS and PDs, likely mediated by systemic inflammatory responses detectable in saliva. The review highlights the importance of oral health in managing MS and supports the utility of saliva as a practical, non-invasive medium for monitoring systemic inflammation. Further research is necessary to confirm the causal relationships and to consider integrating salivary diagnostics into routine clinical management for MS patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Boundaries between Oral and General Health)
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17 pages, 3855 KiB  
Article
A Novel Movable Mannequin Platform for Evaluating and Optimising mmWave Radar Sensor for Indoor Crowd Evacuation Monitoring Applications
by Qing Nian Chan, Dongli Gao, Yu Zhou, Sensen Xing, Guanxiong Zhai, Cheng Wang, Wei Wang, Shen Hin Lim, Eric Wai Ming Lee and Guan Heng Yeoh
Fire 2024, 7(6), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire7060181 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Developing mmWave radar sensors for indoor crowd motion sensing and tracking faces a critical challenge: the scarcity of large-scale, high-quality training data. Traditional human experiments encounter logistical complexities, ethical considerations, and safety issues. Replicating precise human movements across trials introduces noise and inconsistency [...] Read more.
Developing mmWave radar sensors for indoor crowd motion sensing and tracking faces a critical challenge: the scarcity of large-scale, high-quality training data. Traditional human experiments encounter logistical complexities, ethical considerations, and safety issues. Replicating precise human movements across trials introduces noise and inconsistency into the data. To address this, this study proposes a novel solution: a movable platform equipped with a life-size mannequin to generate realistic and diverse data points for mmWave radar training and testing. Unlike human subjects, the platform allows precise control over movements, optimising sensor placement relative to the target object. Preliminary optimisation results reveal that sensor height impacts tracking performance, with an optimal sensor placement above the test subject yields the best results. The results also reveal that the 3D data format outperforms 2D data in accuracy despite having fewer frames. Additionally, analysing height distribution using 3D data highlights the importance of the sensor angle—15° downwards from the horizontal plane. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ensuring Safety against Fires in Overcrowded Urban Areas)
15 pages, 8105 KiB  
Article
Milling Stability Modeling by Sample Partitioning with Chatter Frequency-Based Test Point Selection
by Tony Schmitz
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2024, 8(3), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp8030109 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
This paper describes a sample partitioning approach to retain or reject samples from an initial distribution of stability maps using milling test results. The stability maps are calculated using distributions of uncertain modal parameters that represent the tool tip frequency response functions and [...] Read more.
This paper describes a sample partitioning approach to retain or reject samples from an initial distribution of stability maps using milling test results. The stability maps are calculated using distributions of uncertain modal parameters that represent the tool tip frequency response functions and cutting force model coefficients. Test points for sample partitioning are selected using either (1) the combination of spindle speed and mean axial depth from the available samples that provides the high material removal rate, or (2) a spindle speed based on the chatter frequency and mean axial depth at that spindle speed. The latter is selected when an unstable (chatter) result is obtained from a test. Because the stability model input parameters are also partitioned using the test results, their uncertainty is reduced using a limited number of tests and the milling stability model accuracy is increased. A case study is provided to evaluate the algorithm. Full article
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22 pages, 10661 KiB  
Article
Design, Construction, and Flight Performance of an Electrically Operated Fixed-Wing UAV
by Ilias Panagiotopoulos, Lefteris Sakellariou and Antonios Hatziefremidis
Drones 2024, 8(6), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones8060217 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has attracted much attention in the global community and aviation industry. As UAVs have the potential to be applied for multiple missions, the level of research into improving their design and flight performance has also increased. [...] Read more.
The development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has attracted much attention in the global community and aviation industry. As UAVs have the potential to be applied for multiple missions, the level of research into improving their design and flight performance has also increased. In this context, the present paper aims to present the design, construction, and flight performance of an electrically operated fixed-wing UAV. As a first step in the design process, key performance requirements are defined, such as the thrust required, the stall speed, the minimum drag velocity, and the minimum power velocity. Wing and associated power loadings are calculated according to the defined performance requirements. In addition, payload and endurance requirements are set up in order to determine the wing and tail areas, the total mass, the power requirements, and the motor size. Aerodynamics and stability designs are also calculated. After the completion of the design process, the manufacturing of the UAV follows by using appropriate materials. Flight tests were carried out for the evaluation of the UAV’s flight performance, where the success of the design was demonstrated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drone Design and Development)
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15 pages, 1108 KiB  
Article
Rheological Behavior Features of Feedstocks with a Two-Component Wax–Polyolefin Binder Compared to Analogs Based on Polyoxymethylene
by Alexander N. Muranov, Viktor R. Lysenko and Maxim A. Kocharov
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(6), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8060199 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Despite the large number of studies devoted to different compositions of polymer binders for PIM technology, the actual task is still a comparative analysis of the properties of different types of binders to determine their advantages and disadvantages and optimize the compositions used. [...] Read more.
Despite the large number of studies devoted to different compositions of polymer binders for PIM technology, the actual task is still a comparative analysis of the properties of different types of binders to determine their advantages and disadvantages and optimize the compositions used. In this regard, this study aims at the identification and comparative analysis of the rheological properties of the most demanded feedstocks with binders based on polyoxymethylene and a wax–polyolefin mixture under the condition of using identical steel powder filler. The rate of change in the volume fraction of the liquid phase of the binder in the compared feedstocks with temperature change was determined by the calculation–experimental method. As shown, the temperature dependence of the viscosity of feedstocks with a binder based on a polymer blend depends on factors with variable power, i.e., the viscosity change with temperature occurs by different mechanisms with their relaxation spectra. Thus, the principle of temperature–time superposition for feedstocks with multicomponent binders is not applicable, and the study of the viscosity of such materials should involve a wide range of shear rates and temperatures using experimental methods. Capillary rheometry was used to measure the flow curves of feedstocks based on polyoxymethylene and wax–polyolefin binders. The analysis of flow curves of feedstocks showed that feedstocks with a binder of solution–thermal type of debinding have significantly lower viscosity, which is an advantage for molding thin-walled products. However, their difference of 1.5 times sensitivity to the shear rate gradient leads to their lower resistance to “jets” and liquation of components because of shear rate gradients when molding products with elements of different cross-sectional areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites)
15 pages, 1583 KiB  
Article
Exploration of the Molecular Mechanism by Which Caveolin-1 Regulates Changes in Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability Leading to Eosinophilic Meningoencephalitis
by An-Chih Chen, Shih-Chan Lai, Cheng-You Lu and Ke-Min Chen
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060124 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis, a zoonotic parasite, can invade the human central nervous system (CNS) and cause acute eosinophilic meningitis or eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. Mice infected with A. cantonensis show elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, plasminogen activators, and matrix metalloproteinase-9, resulting in disruption of the [...] Read more.
Angiostrongylus cantonensis, a zoonotic parasite, can invade the human central nervous system (CNS) and cause acute eosinophilic meningitis or eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. Mice infected with A. cantonensis show elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, plasminogen activators, and matrix metalloproteinase-9, resulting in disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and immune cell infiltration into the CNS. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) regulates the permeability of the BBB, which affects immune cells and cerebrospinal fluid. This intricate interaction ultimately fuels the progression of brain damage and edema. This study aims to investigate the regulatory role of Cav-1 in the pathogenesis of meningoencephalitis induced by A. cantonensis infection. We investigated pathological alterations by triphenyl-tetrazolium chloride, brain water content, BBB permeability, Western blot analysis, and gelatin zymography in BALB/c mice after A. cantonensis. The study evaluates the critical role of Cav-1 regulation through the TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway, modulates tight junction proteins, influences BBB permeability, and contributes to brain damage in A. cantonensis-induced meningoencephalitis. Full article
22 pages, 2224 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Accuracy of CAD Modeling in Engineering and Medical Industries Based on Measurement Data Using Reverse Engineering Methods
by Paweł Turek, Wojciech Bezłada, Klaudia Cierpisz, Karol Dubiel, Adrian Frydrych and Jacek Misiura
Designs 2024, 8(3), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs8030050 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The reverse engineering (RE) process is often necessary in today’s engineering and medical industries. Expertise in measurement technology, data processing, and CAD modeling is required to ensure accurate reconstruction of an object’s geometry. However, errors are generated at every stage of geometric reconstruction, [...] Read more.
The reverse engineering (RE) process is often necessary in today’s engineering and medical industries. Expertise in measurement technology, data processing, and CAD modeling is required to ensure accurate reconstruction of an object’s geometry. However, errors are generated at every stage of geometric reconstruction, affecting the dimensional and geometric accuracy of the final 3D-CAD model. In this article, the geometry of reconstructed models was measured using contact and optical methods. The measurement data representing 2D profiles, 3D point clouds, and 2D images acquired in the reconstruction process were saved to a stereolithography (STL) model. The reconstructed models were then subjected to a CAD modeling process, and the accuracy of the parametric modeling was evaluated by comparing the 3D-CAD model to the 3D-STL model. Based on the results, the model used for clamping and positioning parts to perform the machining process and the connecting rod provided the most accurate mapping errors. These models represented deviations within ±0.02 mm and ±0.05 mm. The accuracy of CAD modeling for the turbine blade model and the pelvis part was comparable, presenting deviations within ±0.1 mm. However, the helical gear and the femur models showed the highest deviations of about ±0.2 mm. The procedures presented in the article specify the methods and resolution of the measurement systems and suggest CAD modeling strategies to minimize reconstruction errors. These results can be used as a starting point for further tests to optimize CAD modeling procedures based on the obtained measurement data. Full article
12 pages, 650 KiB  
Article
Development and Properties of Recycled Biomass Fly Ashes Modified Mortars
by Julien Hubert, Sophie Grigoletto, Frédéric Michel, Zengfeng Zhao and Luc Courard
Recycling 2024, 9(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9030046 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The production of biomass fly ash has been increasing every year in Europe, reaching 5.5 million tons in 2020. Fly ash produced by burning biomass is not yet accepted in the standards as a substitute material for cement in mortar and concrete. In [...] Read more.
The production of biomass fly ash has been increasing every year in Europe, reaching 5.5 million tons in 2020. Fly ash produced by burning biomass is not yet accepted in the standards as a substitute material for cement in mortar and concrete. In a first approach, the substitution limit of biomass ash is determined by comparing the mechanical strengths (among others, compressive strength), fresh state properties and hardened properties of mortars produced with fly ash with those of mortars produced with coal fly ash (EN 450-1 and ASTM C618). Masonry and rendering mortars have been designed with different substitution rates of fly ashes from wood combustion in thermal power plants. Although there is an overall decrease in performance, mortars made with biomass ash retain properties that make them suitable for use in masonry (loss of 13% compressive strength for masonry mortars with 10% substitution rate after 90 days) or rendering (loss of 20% compressive strength for rendering mortars with 10% substitution rate after 90 days). Water absorption and porosity (24.1 and 23.7% for masonry and rendering mortars, respectively) are, however, not significantly modified, which potentially contributes to good durability properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resource Recovery from Waste Biomass)
17 pages, 5993 KiB  
Article
“Acid + Oxidant” Treatment Enables Selective Extraction of Lithium from Spent NCM523 Positive Electrode
by Hui Wang, Zejia Wu, Mengmeng Wang, Ya-Jun Cheng, Jie Gao and Yonggao Xia
Batteries 2024, 10(6), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries10060179 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
With the rapid development of new energy vehicles and energy storage industries, the demand for lithium-ion batteries has surged, and the number of spent LIBs has also increased. Therefore, a new method for lithium selective extraction from spent lithium-ion battery cathode materials is [...] Read more.
With the rapid development of new energy vehicles and energy storage industries, the demand for lithium-ion batteries has surged, and the number of spent LIBs has also increased. Therefore, a new method for lithium selective extraction from spent lithium-ion battery cathode materials is proposed, aiming at more efficient recovery of valuable metals. The acid + oxidant leaching system was proposed for spent ternary positive electrode materials, which can achieve the selective and efficient extraction of lithium. In this study, 0.1 mol L−1 H2SO4 and 0.2 mol L−1 (NH4)2S2O8 were used as leaching acid and oxidant. The leaching efficiencies of Li, Ni, Co, and Mn were 98.7, 30, 3.5, and 0.1%, respectively. The lithium solution was obtained by adjusting the pH of the solution. Thermodynamic and kinetic studies of the lithium leaching process revealed that the apparent activation energy of the lithium leaching process is 46 kJ mol−1 and the rate step is the chemical reaction process. The leaching residue can be used as a ternary precursor to prepare regenerated positive electrode materials by solid-phase sintering. Electrochemical tests of the regenerated material proved that the material has good electrochemical properties. The highest discharge capacity exceeds 150 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C, and the capacity retention rate after 100 cycles exceeds 90%. The proposed new method can extract lithium from the ternary material with high selectivity and high efficiency, reducing its loss in the lengthy process. Lithium replenishment of the delithiation material can also restore its activity and realize the comprehensive utilization of elements such as nickel, cobalt, and manganese. The method combines the lithium recovery process and the material preparation process, simplifying the process and saving costs, thus providing new ideas for future method development. Full article
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12 pages, 1300 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Lithium Metal Anode Performance: Investigating the Interfacial Dynamics and Reductive Mechanism of Asymmetric Sulfonylimide Salts
by Shuang Feng, Tianxiu Yin, Letao Bian, Yue Liu and Tao Cheng
Batteries 2024, 10(6), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries10060180 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Asymmetric lithium salts, such as lithium (difluoromethanesulfonyl)(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiDFTFSI), have been demonstrated to surpass traditional symmetric lithium salts with improved Li+ conductivity and the capacity to generate a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) while maintaining compatibility with an aluminum (Al0) current [...] Read more.
Asymmetric lithium salts, such as lithium (difluoromethanesulfonyl)(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiDFTFSI), have been demonstrated to surpass traditional symmetric lithium salts with improved Li+ conductivity and the capacity to generate a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) while maintaining compatibility with an aluminum (Al0) current collector. However, the intrinsic reductive mechanism through which LiDFTFSI influences battery performance remains unclear and under debate. Herein, detailed SEI reactions of LiDFTFSI–based electrolytes were investigated by combining density functional theory and molecular dynamics, aiming to clarify the formation process and atomic structure of the SEI. Our results show that asymmetric DFTFSI weakens the interaction between carbonate solvents and Li+, and substantially alters the solvation structure, exhibiting a well-balanced coordination capacity compared to bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (TFSI). Nanosecond hybrid molecular dynamics simulation further reveals that preferential decomposition of LiDFTFSI produces sufficient LiF and Li2O to facilitate a robust SEI. Moreover, abundant F generated from LiDFTFSI decomposition accumulates on the Al surface and subsequently combines with Al3+ from the current collector to form AlF3, potentially inhibiting corrosion of the current collector. Overall, these findings elucidate how LiDFTFSI regulates the solvation sheath and SEI structure, advancing the development of high-performance electrolytes compatible with current collectors. Full article
14 pages, 2675 KiB  
Article
Resilient Response to Combined Heat and Drought Stress Conditions of a Tomato Germplasm Collection, Including Natural and Ethyl Methanesulfonate-Induced Variants
by Rocío Fonseca, Rosa Micol-Ponce, Carmen V. Ozuna, Laura Castañeda, Carmen Capel, Antonia Fernández-Lozano, Ana Ortiz-Atienza, Sandra Bretones, José M. Pérez-Jiménez, Abraham S. Quevedo-Colmena, Juan D. López-Fábregas, Teresa Barragán-Lozano, Ricardo Lebrón, Celia Faura, Juan Capel, Trinidad Angosto, Isabel Egea, Fernando J. Yuste-Lisbona and Rafael Lozano
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060552 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Agricultural systems are currently facing significant issues, primarily due to population growth rates in the context of global climate change. Rising temperatures cause plant heat stress and impact crop yield, which in turn compromises global food production and safety. Climate change is also [...] Read more.
Agricultural systems are currently facing significant issues, primarily due to population growth rates in the context of global climate change. Rising temperatures cause plant heat stress and impact crop yield, which in turn compromises global food production and safety. Climate change is also having a significant impact on water availability around the world, and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe in many regions. The combined effect of both heat and drought stresses increases plant damage, resulting in reduced plant development and productivity loss. Therefore, developing heat–drought-tolerant crop varieties is crucial for enhancing yield under these challenging conditions. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), a major vegetable crop highly appreciated for its nutritional qualities, is particularly sensitive to extreme temperatures, which have a significant negative impact on tomato fruit setting and cause male gametophyte abortion. In this work, a classical genetic approach was employed to identify tomato genotypes showing a resilient response to combined heat and drought stress conditions. A phenotype screening of a natural germplasm collection and an ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenized population resulted in the identification of a significant number of tomato lines tolerant to combined heat and drought conditions, specifically 161 EMS lines and 24 natural accessions as tolerant. In addition, TILLING and Eco-TILLING analyses were used as proof-of-concept to isolate new genetic variants of genes previously reported as key regulators of abiotic stress responses in different species. The identification of these variants holds the potential to provide suitable plant material for breeding programs focused on enhancing tomato resilience to adverse climate conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Production in Controlled Environment)
15 pages, 1122 KiB  
Article
Microbial Biotechnologies to Produce Biodiesel and Biolubricants from Dairy Effluents
by Grazia Federica Bencresciuto, Claudio Mandalà, Carmela Anna Migliori, Lucia Giansante, Luciana Di Giacinto and Laura Bardi
Fermentation 2024, 10(6), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation10060278 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is crucial in addressing environmental challenges. Vegetable oils have been focused on as the main potential source for biodiesel and biolubricant production. However, due to their fatty acid (FA) composition they are characterized by [...] Read more.
The shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is crucial in addressing environmental challenges. Vegetable oils have been focused on as the main potential source for biodiesel and biolubricant production. However, due to their fatty acid (FA) composition they are characterized by low stability to oxidation and variable viscosity. Single-cell oils (SCOs) from oleaginous microorganisms are a possible alternative to vegetable oils: their composition is more suitable, and it can further be improved by controlling the fermentation’s physiological conditions. In the present study, the production of SCOs with targeted technological properties from Lipomyces starkeyi in fermentation under controlled temperatures was assessed. A dairy effluent (scotta) was used as the fermentation substrate to improve the economic sustainability of the process. Batch aerobic fermentations were carried out in a fermenter at two different temperatures (25 °C and 30 °C). The fermentation yields and SCO FA profiles were analyzed. The highest yields of biomass (9.76 g L−1) and microbial oil (1.83 g L−1) were obtained from fermentations carried out at 30 °C. Furthermore, a significantly lower content (46% vs. 55%) of unsaturated FAs and higher content (11% vs. 1.5%) of shorter-chain saturated FAs, with myristic acid almost matching stearic acid, were detected at 30 °C in comparison to 25 °C. Very low peroxide values were also found (0.14 meq O2 kg−1 at 30 °C and 0 meq O2 kg−1 at 25 °C). These results indicate that these SCOs were highly oxidation-resistant, and that a higher fermentation temperature improves their oxidative stability and tribophysical features. The biodiesels’ technological properties, calculated from the FA composition, were within the limits of both U.S. standards and E.U. regulations. Then, SCOs produced from L. starkeyi by fermentation of dairy effluents carried out under controlled temperature can be considered a suitable alternative to vegetable oils to produce biodiesel and biolubricants. Full article
30 pages, 13990 KiB  
Article
N-Symmetric Interaction of N Hetons, II: Analysis of the Case of Arbitrary N
by Konstantin V. Koshel, Mikhail A. Sokolovskiy, David G. Dritschel and Jean N. Reinaud
Fluids 2024, 9(6), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/fluids9060122 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
This paper seeks and examines N-symmetric vortical solutions of the two-layer geostrophic model for the special case when the vortices (or eddies) have vanishing summed strength (circulation anomaly). This study is an extension [Sokolovskiy et al. Phys. Fluids 2020, 32, 09660], where [...] Read more.
This paper seeks and examines N-symmetric vortical solutions of the two-layer geostrophic model for the special case when the vortices (or eddies) have vanishing summed strength (circulation anomaly). This study is an extension [Sokolovskiy et al. Phys. Fluids 2020, 32, 09660], where the general formulation for arbitrary N was given, but the analysis was only carried out for N=2. Here, families of stationary solutions are obtained and their properties, including asymptotic ones, are investigated in detail. From the point of view of geophysical applications, the results may help interpret the propagation of thermal anomalies in the oceans. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Geophysical Fluid Dynamics)
16 pages, 617 KiB  
Article
Effects of Ownership Structure on Intellectual Capital: Evidence from Publicly Listed Banks in Bangladesh
by Syed Zabid Hossain and Md. Sohel Rana
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2024, 17(6), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17060222 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
This study explored the impacts of ownership structure (OS) on intellectual capital (IC) and its components. Data were gathered from 31 Dhaka Stock Exchange-listed banks for five years, from 2017 to 2021, consisting of 155 observations as balanced panel data. The study used [...] Read more.
This study explored the impacts of ownership structure (OS) on intellectual capital (IC) and its components. Data were gathered from 31 Dhaka Stock Exchange-listed banks for five years, from 2017 to 2021, consisting of 155 observations as balanced panel data. The study used the modified value-added intellectual coefficient (MVAIC) model to track the IC efficiency. The robust fixed effects model was employed for regression analysis to test the hypotheses. The research found that sponsor director ownership is negatively associated with the MVAIC, human capital efficiency (HCE), and structural capital efficiency (SCE) but positively with relational capital efficiency (RCE). High institutional and public ownership are positively linked with SCE but negatively with RCE. Foreign ownership is only positively associated with banks’ MVAIC and HCE. The regression results showed that high institutional ownership (IO) significantly enhanced the MVAIC and HCE. Foreign and public ownership positively influenced banks’ MVAIC, HCE, and capital employed efficiency (CEE) but negatively impacted RCE. The findings of this study will help banks’ policymakers with ownership mixes for the optimum utilization of banks’ resources. Management may assess IC’s efficiency level for proper supervision and use of knowledge resources to boost bank profitability. Also, the findings will help investors make prudent investment decisions. This is the first study to focus on OS and IC with diverse elements in Southeast Asia, especially Bangladesh, an emerging market. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Subjective Well-Being and Financial Decision Making)
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27 pages, 9072 KiB  
Review
Diagnosis and Management of Fetal Arrhythmias in the Current Era
by Stacy A. S. Killen and Janette F. Strasburger
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(6), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11060163 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Diagnosis and management of fetal arrhythmias have changed over the past 40–50 years since propranolol was first used to treat fetal tachycardia in 1975 and when first attempts were made at in utero pacing for complete heart block in 1986. Ongoing clinical trials, [...] Read more.
Diagnosis and management of fetal arrhythmias have changed over the past 40–50 years since propranolol was first used to treat fetal tachycardia in 1975 and when first attempts were made at in utero pacing for complete heart block in 1986. Ongoing clinical trials, including the FAST therapy trial for fetal tachycardia and the STOP-BLOQ trial for anti-Ro-mediated fetal heart block, are working to improve diagnosis and management of fetal arrhythmias for both mother and fetus. We are also learning more about how “silent arrhythmias”, like long QT syndrome and other inherited channelopathies, may be identified by recognizing “subtle” abnormalities in fetal heart rate, and while echocardiography yet remains the primary tool for diagnosing fetal arrhythmias, research efforts continue to advance the clinical envelope for fetal electrocardiography and fetal magnetocardiography. Pharmacologic management of fetal arrhythmias remains one of the most successful achievements of fetal intervention. Patience, vigilance, and multidisciplinary collaboration are key to successful diagnosis and treatment. Full article
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