The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
13 pages, 6130 KiB  
Case Report
Periodontal Regeneration of Vital Poor Prognosis Teeth with Attachment Loss Involving the Root Apex: Two Cases with up to 5 Years Follow-Up
by Ethan Ng and John Rong Hao Tay
Dent. J. 2024, 12(6), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12060170 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Teeth with attachment loss involving the root apex are severely compromised and have a poor periodontal prognosis. In cases where periodontal regeneration is possible, current guidelines suggest that endodontic treatment is performed first. However, root canal treatment increases the overall treatment time and [...] Read more.
Teeth with attachment loss involving the root apex are severely compromised and have a poor periodontal prognosis. In cases where periodontal regeneration is possible, current guidelines suggest that endodontic treatment is performed first. However, root canal treatment increases the overall treatment time and costs, has risks of endodontic complications, and could predispose teeth to mechanical failure. In this case report, two patients diagnosed with periodontitis stage III/IV grade C, no history of smoking or diabetes, and attachment loss involving the root apex of a tooth, were treated with guided tissue regeneration. These two cases are unique because successful periodontal regeneration was carried out without endodontic treatment, and the vitality of these teeth was maintained longitudinally. This report presents the management that led to this clinical outcome, and important guidelines for case selection are identified. Within the limitations of this study, vital teeth with radiographic bone loss involving the apex may be treated successfully with periodontal regeneration and remain vital at least in the short- to medium-term. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Periodontal and Peri-Implant Tissues Health Management)
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22 pages, 2466 KiB  
Review
Navigating the Maze of Kinases: CaMK-like Family Protein Kinases and Their Role in Atherosclerosis
by Jules T. J. Teuwen, Emiel P. C. van der Vorst and Sanne L. Maas
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 6213; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25116213 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Circulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels are a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and even though current treatment strategies focusing on lowering lipid levels are effective, CVD remains the primary cause of death worldwide. Atherosclerosis is the major cause of CVD and [...] Read more.
Circulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels are a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and even though current treatment strategies focusing on lowering lipid levels are effective, CVD remains the primary cause of death worldwide. Atherosclerosis is the major cause of CVD and is a chronic inflammatory condition in which various cell types and protein kinases play a crucial role. However, the underlying mechanisms of atherosclerosis are not entirely understood yet. Notably, protein kinases are highly druggable targets and represent, therefore, a novel way to target atherosclerosis. In this review, the potential role of the calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-like (CaMKL) family and its role in atherosclerosis will be discussed. This family consists of 12 subfamilies, among which are the well-described and conserved liver kinase B1 (LKB1) and 5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) subfamilies. Interestingly, LKB1 plays a key role and is considered a master kinase within the CaMKL family. It has been shown that LKB1 signaling leads to atheroprotective effects, while, for example, members of the microtubule affinity-regulating kinase (MARK) subfamily have been described to aggravate atherosclerosis development. These observations highlight the importance of studying kinases and their signaling pathways in atherosclerosis, bringing us a step closer to unraveling the underlying mechanisms of atherosclerosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Review Papers in Molecular and Cellular Biology 2024)
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21 pages, 4973 KiB  
Article
Advanced Millimeter-Wave Radar System for Real-Time Multiple-Human Tracking and Fall Detection
by Zichao Shen, Jose Nunez-Yanez and Naim Dahnoun
Sensors 2024, 24(11), 3660; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113660 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study explored an indoor system for tracking multiple humans and detecting falls, employing three Millimeter-Wave radars from Texas Instruments. Compared to wearables and camera methods, Millimeter-Wave radar is not plagued by mobility inconveniences, lighting conditions, or privacy issues. We conducted an initial [...] Read more.
This study explored an indoor system for tracking multiple humans and detecting falls, employing three Millimeter-Wave radars from Texas Instruments. Compared to wearables and camera methods, Millimeter-Wave radar is not plagued by mobility inconveniences, lighting conditions, or privacy issues. We conducted an initial evaluation of radar characteristics, covering aspects such as interference between radars and coverage area. Then, we established a real-time framework to integrate signals received from these radars, allowing us to track the position and body status of human targets non-intrusively. Additionally, we introduced innovative strategies, including dynamic Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) clustering based on signal SNR levels, a probability matrix for enhanced target tracking, target status prediction for fall detection, and a feedback loop for noise reduction. We conducted an extensive evaluation using over 300 min of data, which equated to approximately 360,000 frames. Our prototype system exhibited a remarkable performance, achieving a precision of 98.9% for tracking a single target and 96.5% and 94.0% for tracking two and three targets in human-tracking scenarios, respectively. Moreover, in the field of human fall detection, the system demonstrates a high accuracy rate of 96.3%, underscoring its effectiveness in distinguishing falls from other statuses. Full article
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55 pages, 29219 KiB  
Article
Vision System for the Mars Sample Return Capture Containment and Return System (CCRS)
by Brent J. Bos, David L. Donovan, John I. Capone, Chen Wang, Terra C. Hardwick, Dylan E. Bell, Yuqing Zhu, Robert Podgurski, Bashar Rizk, Ireneusz Orlowski, Rachel A. Edison, David A. Harvey, Brianna Dizon, Lindsay Haseltine, Kristoffer C. Olsen, Chad Sheng, Robert R. Bousquet, Luan Q. Vo, Georgi T. Georgiev, Kristen A. Washington, Michael J. Singer, Stefan Ioana, Anloc H. Le, Elena M. Georgieva, Michael T. Hackett, Michael A. Ravine, Michael Caplinger, Phillip Coulter, Erin Percy, Charles Torisky, Jean-Marie Lauenstein, Kaitlyn L. Ryder, Michael J. Campola, Dillon E. Johnstone, William J. Thomes, Richard G. Schnurr, John C. McCloskey, Eugenia L. De Marco, Ellen Lee, Calinda M. Yew, Bo Yang, Mingyu Han and Bartosz Blonskiadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Aerospace 2024, 11(6), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11060456 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
The successful 2020 launch and 2021 landing of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Perseverance Mars rover initiated the first phase of the NASA and European Space Agency (ESA) Mars Sample Return (MSR) campaign. The goal of the MSR campaign is to [...] Read more.
The successful 2020 launch and 2021 landing of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Perseverance Mars rover initiated the first phase of the NASA and European Space Agency (ESA) Mars Sample Return (MSR) campaign. The goal of the MSR campaign is to collect scientifically interesting samples from the Martian surface and return them to Earth for further study in terrestrial laboratories. The MSR campaign consists of three major spacecraft components to accomplish this objective: the Perseverance Mars rover, the Sample Retrieval Lander (SRL) and the Earth Return Orbiter (ERO). Onboard the ERO spacecraft is the Capture, Containment and Return System (CCRS). CCRS will capture, process and return to Earth the samples that have been collected after they are launched into Mars orbit by the Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV), which is delivered to Mars onboard the SRL. To facilitate the processing of the orbiting sample (OS) via the CCRS, we have designed and developed a vision system to determine the OS capture orientation. The vision system is composed of two cameras sensitive to the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum and two illumination modules constructed from broadband light emitting diodes (LED). Vision system laboratory tests and physics-based optical simulations predict CCRS ground processing will be able to correctly identify the OS post-capture orientation using only a single vision system image that is transmitted to Earth from Mars orbit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spacecraft Sample Collection)
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21 pages, 5826 KiB  
Article
Combined Light and Data Driving Stages without Capacitors for Energy Transformation
by Michael Windisch, Felix A. Himmelstoss, Monica Leba, Olimpiu Stoicuta and Helmut L. Votzi
Electricity 2024, 5(2), 313-333; https://doi.org/10.3390/electricity5020016 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Three LED drivers which can be used for illumination, but whose main task is the transmission of information (data) via the light of the LEDs, are explored in this paper. The converter circuits need no capacitors for the energy transformation and avoid an [...] Read more.
Three LED drivers which can be used for illumination, but whose main task is the transmission of information (data) via the light of the LEDs, are explored in this paper. The converter circuits need no capacitors for the energy transformation and avoid an inrush current. The lack of necessity of electrolytic capacitors reduces cost and space. Dimming the illumination is also easy to achieve. The control concept of the converters and the generation of pulsing of the LEDs for transmitting the information (data) are explained. The converters can also be expanded to more stages to drive more LEDs with different types of information. All three converters are explained in detail; all presented circuits are built up and simulated with LTSpice. Several data transmission concepts are applied and demonstrated through simulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electricity in 2024)
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22 pages, 5549 KiB  
Article
Optimization of the Factory Layout and Production Flow Using Production-Simulation-Based Reinforcement Learning
by Hyekyung Choi, Seokhwan Yu, DongHyun Lee, Sang Do Noh, Sanghoon Ji, Horim Kim, Hyunsik Yoon, Minsu Kwon and Jagyu Han
Machines 2024, 12(6), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12060390 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Poor layout designs in manufacturing facilities severely reduce production efficiency and increase short- and long-term costs. Analyzing and deriving efficient layouts for novel line designs or improvements to existing lines considering both the layout design and logistics flow is crucial. In this study, [...] Read more.
Poor layout designs in manufacturing facilities severely reduce production efficiency and increase short- and long-term costs. Analyzing and deriving efficient layouts for novel line designs or improvements to existing lines considering both the layout design and logistics flow is crucial. In this study, we performed production simulation in the design phase for factory layout optimization and used reinforcement learning to derive the optimal factory layout. To facilitate factory-wide layout design, we considered the facility layout, logistics movement paths, and the use of automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The reinforcement-learning process for optimizing each component of the layout was implemented in a multilayer manner, and the optimization results were applied to the design production simulation for verification. Moreover, a flexible simulation system was developed. Users can efficiently review and execute alternative scenarios by considering both facility and logistics layouts in the workspace. By emphasizing the redesign and reuse of the simulation model, we achieved layout optimization through an automated process and propose a flexible simulation system that can adapt to various environments through a multilayered modular approach. By adjusting weights and considering various conditions, throughput increased by 0.3%, logistics movement distance was reduced by 3.8%, and the number of AGVs required was reduced by 11%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Twin-Driven Smart Production, Logistics, and Supply Chains)
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13 pages, 2119 KiB  
Article
Optimization of the One-Size-Fits-All Layout Problem Based on Preparing Material for Steel Bridges
by Zhikui Dong, Chunjiang Liu, Yongkuan Sun, Xuedong Li, Kai Zhang and Yunhong Jiang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4891; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114891 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Before the construction of a bridge begins, workers arrange the necessary parts and then cut and process them. The quality of the cutting layout directly affects the material utilization rate and the efficiency of the subsequent processes. During bridge construction, an intelligent part [...] Read more.
Before the construction of a bridge begins, workers arrange the necessary parts and then cut and process them. The quality of the cutting layout directly affects the material utilization rate and the efficiency of the subsequent processes. During bridge construction, an intelligent part layout can improve work efficiency, save time, and reduce the labor intensity and production costs for the company. In this study, we studied a layout optimization algorithm, focusing on rectangular parts in the material preparation process. A mathematical model for the rectangular layout problem was constructed, and a hybrid genetic whale optimization algorithm is proposed that is a combination of the whale optimization algorithm and the genetic algorithm. Based on the “one size fits all” layout strategy, the materials are divided into strips, which are further divided into stacks, serving as the positioning strategy to determine the positional relationships of the parts. Test cases and actual engineering data were used to compare the layouts generated using different algorithms. The results show that the genetic whale algorithm proposed in this paper results in a high utilization rate and is highly effective. Full article
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16 pages, 2366 KiB  
Article
Bird Species Use of Bioenergy Croplands in Illinois, USA—Can Advanced Switchgrass Cultivars Provide Suitable Habitats for Breeding Grassland Birds?
by Kirk E. LaGory, Jules F. Cacho, Colleen R. Zumpf, DoKyoung Lee, Jeremy Feinstein, Dario Dematties, Leroy J. Walston, Nictor Namoi and M. Cristina Negri
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4807; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114807 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Grassland birds have sustained significant population declines in the United States through habitat loss, and replacing lost grasslands with bioenergy production areas could benefit these species and the ecological services they provide. Point count surveys and autonomous acoustic monitoring were used at two [...] Read more.
Grassland birds have sustained significant population declines in the United States through habitat loss, and replacing lost grasslands with bioenergy production areas could benefit these species and the ecological services they provide. Point count surveys and autonomous acoustic monitoring were used at two field sites in Illinois, USA, to determine if an advanced switchgrass cultivar that is being used for bioenergy feedstock production could provide suitable habitats for grassland and other bird species. At the Brighton site, the bird use of switchgrass plots was compared to that of corn plots during the breeding seasons of 2020–2022. At the Urbana site, the bird use of restored prairie, switchgrass, and Miscanthus × giganteus was studied in the 2022 breeding season. At Brighton, Common Yellowthroat, Dickcissel, Grasshopper Sparrow, and Sedge Wren occurred on switchgrass plots more often than on corn; Common Yellowthroat and Dickcissel increased on experimental plots as the perennial switchgrass increased in height and density over the study period; and the other two species declined over the same period. At Urbana, Dickcissel was most frequent in prairie and switchgrass; Common Yellowthroat was most frequent in miscanthus and switchgrass. These findings suggest that advanced switchgrass cultivars could provide suitable habitats for grassland birds, replace lost habitats, and contribute to the recovery of these vulnerable species. Full article
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12 pages, 1081 KiB  
Article
Cardiac Adaptation in Power Athletes: Differential Impact of Judo and Weightlifting
by Giuseppe Di Gioia, Armando Ferrera, Viviana Maestrini, Sara Monosilio, Maria Rosaria Squeo, Erika Lemme, Antonio Nenna, Sofia Calaciura Clarich, Simone Crotta and Antonio Pelliccia
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3336; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113336 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: According to the ESC guidelines, sport disciplines are classified in relation to the predominant component (skill, power, mixed and endurance), including a wide range of disciplines with different isometric/isotonic exercises and exercise-induced heart remodeling. The aim of our study was to evaluate [...] Read more.
Background: According to the ESC guidelines, sport disciplines are classified in relation to the predominant component (skill, power, mixed and endurance), including a wide range of disciplines with different isometric/isotonic exercises and exercise-induced heart remodeling. The aim of our study was to evaluate differences in morpho-functional cardiac adaptations in power athletes, comparing judokas with weightlifters. Methods: We enrolled 55 Olympic athletes (38 judokas, 17 weightlifters), aged 24.5 ± 3.8 years, 25 (45.4%) of whom were males, and they underwent a pre-participation evaluation, including a physical examination, ECG, transthoracic echocardiogram, and exercise stress test. Results: The judokas presented significant differences in cardiac adaptations, with larger left ventricle (LV) end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes indexed (LVEDVi, p = 0.002 and LVESVi, p = 0.004) and higher LVMass values indexed (p = 0.033), but similar LV wall thicknesses (p = 0.093) and LV ejection fractions (p = 0.981). Also, the left atrium (LA) dimension (p = 0.0002) and volume indexed (p < 0.0001) were higher in the judokas, as were the larger right ventricle (RV) areas. Finally, the judokas showed higher VO2max (p = 0.012), O2 pulse (p = 0.007), VE/O2 LT1 (p = 0.041) and VE/O2 LT2 (p = 0.036) values, with a lower resting heart rate (p = 0.031) and higher exercise capacity (p = 0.011). Conclusions: The judokas showed substantial differences in cardiac morpho-functional adaptations from the weightlifters, and, accordingly, judo should be more properly considered not a pure strength sport but more similar to mixed disciplines of the ESC classification. Full article
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17 pages, 4176 KiB  
Article
Influence of Intercropping Arisaema amurense with Acanthopanax senticosus on Soil Microbial Community and the Effective Ingredients of A. senticosus
by Jiapeng Zhu, Yayu Zhang, Cai Shao, Bochen Lv, Hao Liang, Weiyu Cao, Guojia Zhang and Hai Sun
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060592 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Intercropping is an effective cultivation strategy for promoting soil health, changing microbial community, reducing fertiliser application and enhancing the quality of medicinal plants. Nevertheless, the interaction effect of intercropping between Arisaema amurense and Acanthopanax senticosus remains unknown. Herein, we investigated the difference in [...] Read more.
Intercropping is an effective cultivation strategy for promoting soil health, changing microbial community, reducing fertiliser application and enhancing the quality of medicinal plants. Nevertheless, the interaction effect of intercropping between Arisaema amurense and Acanthopanax senticosus remains unknown. Herein, we investigated the difference in soil properties, soil enzyme activities, microbial community diversity and active ingredients of A. senticosus in monoculturing versus intercropping of A. senticosus/A. amurense in a field experiment. High-throughput sequencing and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry were employed to explore the growth promotion effect in the intercropping mode. Results revealed that intercropping benefitted the accumulation of ammonium nitrogen and total nitrogen in soil; total nitrogen and ammonium nitrogen increased by 33% (rhizosphere) and 65% (inter-row) and by 123% (rhizosphere) and 124% (inter-row) at 0–20 cm soil depths, respectively. Furthermore, intercropping increased the soil carbon/nitrogen ratio at the soil from 20 to 40 cm and promoted the growth of the root system of the deep-rooted plant A. senticosus. However, it exerted a certain inhibitory effect on the activities of urease, sucrase and neutral phosphatase on the soil surface. Intercropping increased bacterial diversity and inhibited fungal diversity in soil, potentially preventing the soil microflora changed from bacterial type to fungal type. In terms of community composition, intercropping exhibited a greater effect on bacteria than on fungi. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of microorganisms associated with nutrient cycling and increased ecosystem resistance increased in intercropped soils, such as those of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota and Bacteroidota. At the genus level, the bacterial genera that showed significantly increased relative abundance in intercropping soil included unclassified_Acidobacteriales, Sphingomonas, Gemmatimonas and Candidatus_Solibacter. Furthermore, the relative abundance of Cladosporium, a potential plant pathogen in intercropped rhizosphere soil, was 42% lower than that in monocultured rhizosphere soil. Additionally, intercropping can promote the accumulation of eleutheroside B, eleutheroside E, quercetin, protocatechuic acid and polysaccharide, which increased by 551%, 53%, 10%, 28% and 26%, respectively, compared with that after monoculturing. According to the Pearson correlation heat map, rapidly available phosphorus, rapidly available potassium, ammonium nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, total nitrogen and urease exhibited the greatest impact on the soil microbial community and on the active ingredients of A. senticosus. In conclusion, intercropping altered the composition of the soil microbial community and increased the content of the active ingredients of A. senticosus, consequently begetting economic and ecological benefits. Full article
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14 pages, 3722 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Properties of Coupled Nonlinear Split-Ring Resonators
by Xiao Lin and Mi Wang
Mathematics 2024, 12(11), 1756; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12111756 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we delve into the dynamics of two and three coupled SRRs models, exploring their nonlinear properties such as stability, periodicity, or chaos. Additionally, we examine the energy function Hamilton within the context of these models. Numerical examples are provided to [...] Read more.
In this paper, we delve into the dynamics of two and three coupled SRRs models, exploring their nonlinear properties such as stability, periodicity, or chaos. Additionally, we examine the energy function Hamilton within the context of these models. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the obtained results and demonstrate the applicability of our findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dynamical Systems)
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25 pages, 3666 KiB  
Review
Natural Products with Potential Effects on Hemorrhoids: A Review
by Yicheng Liang, Tankun Ren, Ruyi Li, Zhonghui Yu, Yu Wang, Xin Zhang, Zonglin Qin, Jinlong Li, Jing Hu and Chuanhong Luo
Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2673; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112673 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Hemorrhoid disease is a common anorectal disorder affecting populations worldwide, with high prevalence, treatment difficulties, and considerable treatment costs. Compared to other treatment options, medical therapy for hemorrhoids offers minimal harm, more dignity to patients, and is more economical. Unfortunately, there are few [...] Read more.
Hemorrhoid disease is a common anorectal disorder affecting populations worldwide, with high prevalence, treatment difficulties, and considerable treatment costs. Compared to other treatment options, medical therapy for hemorrhoids offers minimal harm, more dignity to patients, and is more economical. Unfortunately, there are few chemical hemorrhoid medications available clinically, which makes the search for efficacious, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly new medication classes a focal point of research. In this context, searching for available natural products to improve hemorrhoids exhibits tremendous potential. These products are derived from nature, predominantly from plants, with a minor portion coming from animals, fungi, and algae. They have excellent coagulation pathway regulation, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and tissue regeneration activities. Therefore, we take the view that they are a class of potential hemorrhoid drugs, prevention products, and medication add-on ingredients. This article first reviews the factors contributing to the development of hemorrhoids, types, primary symptoms, and the mechanisms of natural products for hemorrhoids. Building on this foundation, we screened natural products with potential hemorrhoid improvement activity, including polyphenols and flavonoids, terpenes, polysaccharides, and other types. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Products and Their Biological Activities)
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12 pages, 11069 KiB  
Article
A Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedure to Harvest Palate Periosteum as a Source of Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells for Bone Tissue Engineering
by André Antonio Pelegrine, David Gonzalo Montero López, Antonio Carlos Aloise, João Pedro Grandini Zeferino, Carolina Guassi Mannina, Raul Canal, Daniel Navarro da Rocha, Tamara Cristina Lopes de Castro, Elizabeth Ferreira Martinez, Lexie Shannon Holliday, Roberto Dalto Fanganiello and José Ricardo Muniz Ferreira
Dent. J. 2024, 12(6), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12060172 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study is to validate a minimally invasive surgical procedure to harvest palate periosteum as a source of tissue for mesenchymal stromal/stem cells. We performed a standardized procedure to harvest the palate periosteum in ten subjects, which consisted of a [...] Read more.
The aim of this study is to validate a minimally invasive surgical procedure to harvest palate periosteum as a source of tissue for mesenchymal stromal/stem cells. We performed a standardized procedure to harvest the palate periosteum in ten subjects, which consisted of a 3 mm disposable punch and a Molt periosteal elevator to harvest a small full-thickness fragment of soft tissue at the hard palate area, between the upper bicuspids, 3 to 4 mm apical to the cement enamel junction. The one-third inner portion was fragmented, and following standard cell culture procedures, the adherent cells were cultured for three passages, after obtaining 70–90% confluence. Cell morphology analysis, flow cytometry analysis, and viability and osteogenic differentiation assays were performed. In all 10 cases, uneventful healing was observed, with no need for analgesic intake. The evaluation of cell morphology showed elongated spindle-shaped cells distributed in woven patterns. A high viability range was verified as well as an immunophenotype compatible with mesenchymal stem cell lineage. The differentiation assay showed the potential of the cells to differentiate into the osteogenic lineage. These results demonstrate that the minimally invasive proposed surgical technique is capable of supplying enough periosteum source tissue for stem cell culture and bone tissue engineering. Full article
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16 pages, 9438 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Beachrock Outcrop on Spatial Variability in Beach Morphology
by Junhui Xu, Yanhong Wang and Peidong Lu
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(6), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12060945 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Beachrock is a type of coastal carbonate sedimentary rock developed in the sandy beach intertidal zone, widely distributed along the beach front, and the loss of beach sediment is the main cause of beachrock exposure. Based on the analysis of measured data of [...] Read more.
Beachrock is a type of coastal carbonate sedimentary rock developed in the sandy beach intertidal zone, widely distributed along the beach front, and the loss of beach sediment is the main cause of beachrock exposure. Based on the analysis of measured data of different exposure forms of beachrocks in profiles, this paper analyzes the main features and influences of non-dynamic factors, such as the exposure position and morphology, of beachrocks on the dynamic geomorphic processes of beaches. Studies have shown that (1) changes between beach energy dissipation bodies are significant features of coastal geomorphic processes under the influence of beachrocks. The first spatial mode of EOF analysis shows that the erosion position of beach-rock-exposed profiles is mainly concentrated in the protected and real sections of beachrock, and the first temporal mode indicates that the exposure of beachrock results in a lagged response of its profile to dynamic environmental changes. (2) The differences in the exposure forms of beachrocks determine the sand-holding space of the beach, and the differences in the lateral exposure positions of beachrocks determine the main areas where erosion occurs on the profile. Meanwhile, the geomorphic processes of their profiles show different degrees of feedback, and such geomorphic phenomena can serve as reference indicators for the stage-wise evolution process influenced by beachrocks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Coastal Engineering)
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12 pages, 9150 KiB  
Article
Theory-Driven Tailoring of the Microenvironment of Quaternary Ammonium Binding Sites on Electrospun Nanofibers for Efficient Bilirubin Removal in Hemoperfusion
by Xingyu Fu, Minsi Shi, Dingyang Chen, Xinyue Zhao, Tingting Jiang and Rui Zhao
Polymers 2024, 16(11), 1599; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16111599 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Efficient adsorbents for excess bilirubin removal are extremely important for the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia. However, traditional adsorbents, such as activated carbons and ion-exchange resins, still suffer from dissatisfactory adsorption performance and poor blood compatibility. Herein, we adopted a rational design strategy guided by [...] Read more.
Efficient adsorbents for excess bilirubin removal are extremely important for the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia. However, traditional adsorbents, such as activated carbons and ion-exchange resins, still suffer from dissatisfactory adsorption performance and poor blood compatibility. Herein, we adopted a rational design strategy guided by density functional theory (DFT) calculations to prepare blood-compatible quaternary ammonium group grafted electrospun polyacrylonitrile nanofiber adsorbents. The calculation analysis and adsorption experiments were used to investigate the structure–function relationship between group types and bilirubin adsorption, both indicating that quaternary ammonium groups with suitable configurations played a crucial role in bilirubin binding. The obtained nanofiber adsorbents showed the bilirubin removal efficiency above 90% even at a coexisting BSA concentration of 50 g L−1. The maximum adsorption capacities were 818.9 mg g−1 in free bilirubin solution and 163.7 mg g−1 in albumin bound bilirubin solution. The nanofiber adsorbents also showed considerable bilirubin removal in dynamic adsorption to reduce the bilirubin concentration to a normal level, which was better than commercial activated carbons. Our study demonstrates the high feasibility of a theory-driven design method for the development of grafted electrospun nanofibers, which have good potential as bilirubin adsorbents in hemoperfusion applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctional Application of Electrospun Fiber)
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20 pages, 7247 KiB  
Article
Study of Quenching and Partitioning (Q&P) and Ultrasonic Surface Rolling (USR) Process on Microstructure and Mechanical Property of a High-Strength Martensitic Steel
by Yi Hou, Chenfeng Duan, Xiaoqiang Li and Shengguan Qu
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2752; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112752 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Steel with a combination of strength and plasticity is prevalently demanded for lightweight design and emission reductions in manufacturing. In this study, a high-strength Cr-Ni-Mo martensitic steel treated by quenching and partitioning (Q&P) and ultrasonic surface rolling (USR) processes was studied for both [...] Read more.
Steel with a combination of strength and plasticity is prevalently demanded for lightweight design and emission reductions in manufacturing. In this study, a high-strength Cr-Ni-Mo martensitic steel treated by quenching and partitioning (Q&P) and ultrasonic surface rolling (USR) processes was studied for both strength and plasticity enhancement. Specimens were austenitized at 850 °C and then quenched to 240 °C via cooling by water, oil, and normalization in quenching. This was followed by partitioning, in which two groups of specimens were heated to 370 °C and 350 °C for 45 min, respectively. At last, all the specimens were quenched to room temperature with the same methods of quenching. The highest tensile strength increased from 681.73 MPa to 1389.76 MPa when compared to as-received (AR) steel after the Q&P process. The USR process with a static force of 800 N further improved the tensile strength of specimens with high tensile strength after the Q&P process, which improved from 1389.76 MPa to 1586.62 MPa and the product’s strength and elongation (PSE) increased from 15.76 GPa% to 15.9 GPa%, while the total elongation showed a mitigatory decrease from 11.34% to 10.02%. Tensile fractures were also studied and verified using a combination of strength and plasticity after a combined process of Q&P and USR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ultrasound for Material Characterization and Processing III)
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14 pages, 6599 KiB  
Article
An Amphiphilic Surface with Improved Thermal Radiation for Water Harvesting
by Han Wang, Shengtao Li, Ye Zhang, Weihui Wu, Khaled Abdeen Mousa Ali and Changyou Li
Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2672; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112672 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Water scarcity poses a significant challenge for people living in arid areas. Despite the effectiveness of many bioinspired surfaces in promoting vapor condensation, their water-harvesting efficiency is insufficient. This is often exacerbated by overheating, which decreases the performance in terms of the micro-droplet [...] Read more.
Water scarcity poses a significant challenge for people living in arid areas. Despite the effectiveness of many bioinspired surfaces in promoting vapor condensation, their water-harvesting efficiency is insufficient. This is often exacerbated by overheating, which decreases the performance in terms of the micro-droplet concentration and movement on surfaces. In this study, we used a spotted amphiphilic surface to enhance the surfaces’ water-harvesting efficiency while maintaining their heat emissivity. Through hydrophilic particle screening and hydrophobic groove modifying, the coalescence and sliding characteristics of droplets on the amphiphilic surfaces were improved. The incorporation of boron nitride (BN) nanoparticles further enhanced the surfaces’ ability to harvest energy from condensation. To evaluate the water-harvesting performance of these amphiphilic surfaces, we utilized a real-time recording water-harvesting platform to identify microscopic weight changes on the surfaces. Our findings indicated that the inclusion of glass particles in hydrophobic grooves, combined with 1.0 wt.% BN nanoparticles, enhanced the water-harvesting efficiency of the amphiphilic surfaces by more than 20%. Full article
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17 pages, 15356 KiB  
Article
Interference Management for a Wireless Communication Network Using a Recurrent Neural Network Approach
by Mohammad Abrar Shakil Sejan, Md Habibur Rahman, Md Abdul Aziz, Rana Tabassum, Young-Hwan You, Duck-Dong Hwang and Hyoung-Kyu Song
Mathematics 2024, 12(11), 1755; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12111755 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Wireless communication technologies have profoundly impacted the interconnectivity of mobile users and terminals. Nevertheless, the exponential increase in the number of users poses significant challenges, particularly in interference management, which is a major concern in wireless communication. Machine learning (ML) approaches have emerged [...] Read more.
Wireless communication technologies have profoundly impacted the interconnectivity of mobile users and terminals. Nevertheless, the exponential increase in the number of users poses significant challenges, particularly in interference management, which is a major concern in wireless communication. Machine learning (ML) approaches have emerged as powerful tools for solving various problems in this domain. However, existing studies have not fully addressed the problem of interference management for wireless communication using ML techniques. In this paper, we explore the application of recurrent neural network (RNN) approaches to address co-channel interference in wireless communication. Specifically, we investigate the effectiveness of long short-term memory (LSTM), bidirectional LSTM (Bi-LSTM), and gated recurrent unit (GRU) network architectures in two different network settings. The first network comprises 10 connected devices, while the second network involves 20 devices. Our experimental results demonstrate that Bi-LSTM outperforms LSTM and GRU in terms of mean squared error, normalized mean squared error, and sum rate. While LSTM and GRU produce similar results, LSTM exhibits a marginal advantage over GRU. In addition, a combined RNN approach is also studied, and it can provide better results in dense networks. Full article
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12 pages, 334 KiB  
Article
Psychological Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake among Pregnant Women in Kenya: A Comprehensive Model Integrating Health Belief Model Constructs, Anticipated Regret, and Trust in Health Authorities
by Sylvia Ayieko, Christine Markham, Kimberly Baker and Sarah E. Messiah
COVID 2024, 4(6), 749-760; https://doi.org/10.3390/covid4060050 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Pregnant women, considered at risk of COVID-19 complications because of the immunosuppressive and physiological changes in pregnancy, were initially hesitant to receive COVID-19 vaccination. This study assessed the association between COVID-19 vaccination uptake, psychological determinants (health belief model (HBM) constructs, anticipated regret, trust [...] Read more.
Pregnant women, considered at risk of COVID-19 complications because of the immunosuppressive and physiological changes in pregnancy, were initially hesitant to receive COVID-19 vaccination. This study assessed the association between COVID-19 vaccination uptake, psychological determinants (health belief model (HBM) constructs, anticipated regret, trust in health authorities), and provider recommendation among pregnant women in Kenya. Using data from a cross-sectional study, we conducted correlations, binary and multivariable logistic regressions, and moderation analysis to explore relationships between COVID-19 vaccination and psychological variables. Of the 115 pregnant women, 64% reported receiving provider recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination. There were weak positive correlations between the variables. Participants with high anticipated regret scores were more likely to receive COVID-19 vaccination compared to their peers (AOR = 4.27; 95% CI, 1.23–14.85), while provider recommendation increased the odds of COVID-19 vaccination (OR = 3.70; 95% CI, 1.53–8.92). None of the HBM constructs were significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccination. The findings related to psychological variables require the reconceptualization of theory-informed interventions to streamline healthcare provision. The critical role of healthcare providers in COVID-19 vaccination recommendations suggests a need to empower health practitioners with effective communication skills to improve maternal health outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue How COVID-19 and Long COVID Changed Individuals and Communities 2.0)
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15 pages, 4295 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Non-Pneumatic Tire Spoke Designs for Off-Road Applications: A Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics Perspective
by Charanpreet Sidhu and Zeinab El-Sayegh
Geotechnics 2024, 4(2), 549-563; https://doi.org/10.3390/geotechnics4020030 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study explores the development of a terramechanics-based model for non-pneumatic tire–terrain interaction, focusing on different spoke designs. The research investigates how four spoke shapes (honeycomb, modified honeycomb, re-entrant honeycomb, and straight spokes) affect non-pneumatic tire performance in off-road conditions. Using the finite [...] Read more.
This study explores the development of a terramechanics-based model for non-pneumatic tire–terrain interaction, focusing on different spoke designs. The research investigates how four spoke shapes (honeycomb, modified honeycomb, re-entrant honeycomb, and straight spokes) affect non-pneumatic tire performance in off-road conditions. Using the finite element method (FEM) to model non-pneumatic tires, and smoothed-particle hydrodynamics (SPH) to model dry, loose soil, simulations were conducted to replicate real-world loading conditions. This study utilizes virtual environment solution finite element analysis software to examine the interaction between a non-pneumatic tire and dry, loose soil, with a focus on calculating longitudinal and vertical forces. These forces play a pivotal role in determining the motion resistance coefficient. The results show distinct variations in the motion-resistance coefficients among the spoke designs on dry, loose soil. This analysis helps to identify the spoke configurations that optimize energy efficiency and fuel consumption. By comparing and evaluating the four spoke designs, this study shows the effect of spoke design on tire motion resistance. This study concluded that the modified honeycomb spoke design is the most stable and the least sensitive to operating conditions. Full article
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31 pages, 9080 KiB  
Article
Ozone Pollution in the North China Plain during the 2016 Air Chemistry Research in Asia (ARIAs) Campaign: Observations and a Modeling Study
by Hao He, Zhanqing Li and Russell R. Dickerson
Air 2024, 2(2), 178-208; https://doi.org/10.3390/air2020011 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
To study air pollution in the North China Plain (NCP), the Air Chemistry Research in Asia (ARIAs) campaign conducted airborne measurements of air pollutants in spring 2016. High pollutant concentrations, with O3 > 100 ppbv, CO > 500 ppbv, and NO2 [...] Read more.
To study air pollution in the North China Plain (NCP), the Air Chemistry Research in Asia (ARIAs) campaign conducted airborne measurements of air pollutants in spring 2016. High pollutant concentrations, with O3 > 100 ppbv, CO > 500 ppbv, and NO2 > 10 ppbv, were observed. CMAQ simulations with the 2010 EDGAR emissions capture the spatial and temporal variations in ozone and its major precursors such as NO2 and VOCs, with significant underestimation. Differences between CMAQ simulations and satellite observations reflect changes in anthropogenic emissions, decreased NOx emissions in megacities such as Beijing, but slight increases in other cities and rural areas. CMAQ also underestimates HCHO and CO, suggesting adjustments of the 2010 EDGAR emissions are necessary. HCHO/NO2 column ratios derived from OMI measurements and CMAQ simulations show that VOC-sensitive chemistry dominates the ozone photochemical production in eastern China, suggesting the importance of tightening regulations on anthropogenic VOC emissions. After adjusting emissions based on satellite observations, better model performance was achieved. Because of the VOC-sensitive environment in ozone chemistry over the NCP, the underestimation of anthropogenic emissions could be important for CMAQ simulations, while future study and regulations should focus on VOC emissions with continuous controls on NOx emissions in China. Full article
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17 pages, 2677 KiB  
Review
Sustainable Brand Advertising—The Green Advertising for Generation Z, a Qualitative LRSB Analyze
by Paula Rosa Lopes, Albérico Travassos Rosário and Filipe Sales Rosário
Platforms 2024, 2(2), 84-100; https://doi.org/10.3390/platforms2020006 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Advertising has been one of brands’ main allies in successfully promoting their products and services, creating trends and changing consumer mindsets, which allows them to increase sales and consequently achieve commercial success. The advertising medium has been evolving, increasingly encompassing new technologies as [...] Read more.
Advertising has been one of brands’ main allies in successfully promoting their products and services, creating trends and changing consumer mindsets, which allows them to increase sales and consequently achieve commercial success. The advertising medium has been evolving, increasingly encompassing new technologies as well as expanding its areas of intervention. This research article uses the Systematic Bibliometric Literature Review methodology, and its main objective is to clarify the state of the art regarding advertising and sustainability, since if advertising is one of the main allies for the success of brands, sustainability has become one of its main strategies. The starting question is whether advertising has been used to communicate sustainability. The methodology used in this study is a systematic bibliometric literature review (LRSB) to collect, analyze and synthesize data on advertising and sustainability, and covers a period of publications from the year 2007 to 2024, with the support of visual maps of the research indexed in the Scopus Database, created with VOSViewer. The aim was to give an overview of the studies published in this scientific area. The qualitative results of the analysis suggest that the theme of sustainability has been studied and associated with brands and sectors of activity such as luxury brands. The analysis leads to the suggestion of a reduced connection between sustainability and advertising, with studies on “green advertising” being mentioned, which allows us to affirm that this is an area that requires more in-depth studies, despite the fact that these initial results, on the one hand, help professionals in the field of digital marketing to make decisions, as well as clarifying the topic from a research point of view. Full article
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14 pages, 15812 KiB  
Article
The Application of Cathodoluminescence (CL) for the Characterization of Blue Pigments
by Eleni Palamara, Stelios Kesidis, Laura Tormo Cifuentes, Partha Pratim Das, Stavros Nicolopoulos and Nikolaos Zacharias
Heritage 2024, 7(6), 3048-3061; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7060143 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
The combined application of Cathodoluminescence (CL) with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) on paintings and painted surfaces has the potential to identify both organic and inorganic pigments on a micrometre or even nanometre scale. Additionally, the combination with Energy-Dispersive Spectrometry (EDS) allows for a [...] Read more.
The combined application of Cathodoluminescence (CL) with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) on paintings and painted surfaces has the potential to identify both organic and inorganic pigments on a micrometre or even nanometre scale. Additionally, the combination with Energy-Dispersive Spectrometry (EDS) allows for a more holistic, elemental, and mineralogical characterization of pigments. In addressing the need for the creation of a robust, open access database of characteristic CL spectra of pigments, a large project has been undertaken, focusing primarily on common organic and inorganic pigments. The present paper focuses on the CL characterization of 10 significant blue pigments in pure powder form: cerulean blue, Egyptian blue, Han blue, indigo, lapis lazuli, Maya blue, phthalo blue, vivianite, ultramarine blue, and zirconium blue. The CL spectra present characteristic bands for most of the pigments, allowing their secure identification, especially when combining the results with the EDS analyses. The effect of binding media and of the mixture of different pigments was also studied, via the analysis of mixtures of pigments with oil painted over canvas. Overall, both the binding medium and the mixture of pigments do not appear to create significant differences in the occurring spectra, thus allowing the identification of individual pigments. EDS and RAMAN spectra are included in order to facilitate comparison with other databases. Full article
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