The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
23 pages, 8262 KiB  
Article
Kinematic Modeling and Performance Analysis of a 5-DoF Robot for Welding Applications
by Selvaraj Karupusamy, Sundaram Maruthachalam and Balaji Veerasamy
Machines 2024, 12(6), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12060378 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Robotic manipulators are critical for industrial automation, boosting productivity, quality, and safety in various production applications. Key factors like the payload, speed, accuracy, and reach define robot performance. Optimizing these factors is crucial for future robot applications across diverse fields. While 6-Degrees-of-Freedom (DoF)-articulated [...] Read more.
Robotic manipulators are critical for industrial automation, boosting productivity, quality, and safety in various production applications. Key factors like the payload, speed, accuracy, and reach define robot performance. Optimizing these factors is crucial for future robot applications across diverse fields. While 6-Degrees-of-Freedom (DoF)-articulated robots are popular due to their diverse applications, this research proposes a novel 5-DoF robot design for industrial automation, featuring a combination of three prismatic and two revolute (2R) joints, and analyzes its workspace. The proposed techno-economically efficient design offers control over the robot manipulator to achieve any reachable position and orientation within its workspace, replacing traditional 6-DoF robots. The kinematic model integrates both parallel and serial manipulator principles, combining a Cartesian mechanism with rotational mechanisms. Simulations demonstrate the end effector’s flexibility for tasks like welding, additive manufacturing, and material inspections, achieving the desired position and orientation. The research encompasses the design of linear and rotational actuators, kinematic modeling, Human–Machine Interface (HMI) development, and welding application integration. The developed robot demonstrates a superior performance and user-friendliness in welding. The experimental work validates the design’s optimized joint trajectories, efficient power usage, singularity avoidance, easy access in application areas, and reduced costs due to fewer actuators. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Automation and Control Systems)
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14 pages, 5285 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Vegetarian Sausages: Proximal Composition, Instrumental Texture, Rapid Descriptive Sensory Method and Overall Consumer Liking
by Karen P. Carhuancho-Colca, Reynaldo J. Silva-Paz, Carlos Elías-Peñafiel, Bettit K. Salvá-Ruiz and Christian R. Encina-Zelada
Foods 2024, 13(11), 1733; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13111733 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
The aim of the present research was to determine if the developed ovo−vegetarian sausage (SO), which was made with 15% chickpea flour, 51% albumin and 34% soy protein concentrate, exhibited improved physicochemical and sensory characteristics compared to vegetarian sausages available on the local [...] Read more.
The aim of the present research was to determine if the developed ovo−vegetarian sausage (SO), which was made with 15% chickpea flour, 51% albumin and 34% soy protein concentrate, exhibited improved physicochemical and sensory characteristics compared to vegetarian sausages available on the local market (classic vegan sausage, SC; vegan fine herb sausage, SH; and quinoa sausage, SQ). According to the physicochemical results, the developed sample, SO, presented significant differences (p < 0.05) compared to the others, including higher protein content, lower pH and a higher a* value. Three types of sensory analyses were conducted—flash profile, overall liking and purchase intention (to determine consumers’ willingness to purchase the product)—with the first involving 15 consumers and the second and third involving 60 participants each. Descriptors for each sample were determined using the vocabulary provided by consumers in the flash profile analysis. Descriptors for SO included ‘elastic’, ‘smell of cooked corn’, ‘characteristic flavor’, ‘pasty’, ‘soft’ and ‘pastel color’, contributing to its greater overall liking and purchase intention compared to the others. Through the hierarchical multiple factor analysis, a positive correlation was observed between the texture and sensory descriptors of the flash profile. Conversely, a correlation was found between the physicochemical characteristics (pH, aw, color) and overall liking and purchase intention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensory and Consumer Science in the Green Transition)
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13 pages, 1156 KiB  
Article
Classification of Soybean Genotypes as to Calcium, Magnesium, and Sulfur Content Using Machine Learning Models and UAV–Multispectral Sensor
by Dthenifer Cordeiro Santana, Izabela Cristina de Oliveira, Sâmela Beutinger Cavalheiro, Paulo Henrique Menezes das Chagas, Marcelo Carvalho Minhoto Teixeira Filho, João Lucas Della-Silva, Larissa Pereira Ribeiro Teodoro, Cid Naudi Silva Campos, Fábio Henrique Rojo Baio, Carlos Antonio da Silva Junior and Paulo Eduardo Teodoro
AgriEngineering 2024, 6(2), 1581-1593; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering6020090 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Making plant breeding programs less expensive, fast, practical, and accurate, especially for soybeans, promotes the selection of new soybean genotypes and contributes to the emergence of new varieties that are more efficient in absorbing and metabolizing nutrients. Using spectral information from soybean genotypes [...] Read more.
Making plant breeding programs less expensive, fast, practical, and accurate, especially for soybeans, promotes the selection of new soybean genotypes and contributes to the emergence of new varieties that are more efficient in absorbing and metabolizing nutrients. Using spectral information from soybean genotypes combined with nutritional information on secondary macronutrients can help genetic improvement programs select populations that are efficient in absorbing and metabolizing these nutrients. In addition, using machine learning algorithms to process this information makes the acquisition of superior genotypes more accurate. Therefore, the objective of the work was to verify the classification performance of soybean genotypes regarding secondary macronutrients by ML algorithms and different inputs. The experiment was conducted in the experimental area of the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, municipality of Chapadão do Sul, Brazil. Soybean was sown in the 2019/20 crop season, with the planting of 103 F2 soybean populations. The experimental design used was randomized blocks, with two replications. At 60 days after crop emergence (DAE), spectral images were collected with a Sensifly eBee RTK fixed-wing remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), with autonomous takeoff control, flight plan, and landing. At the reproductive stage (R1), three leaves were collected per plant to determine the macronutrients calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S) levels. The data obtained from the spectral information and the nutritional values of the genotypes in relation to Ca, Mg, and S were subjected to a Pearson correlation analysis; a PC analysis was carried out with a k-means algorithm to divide the genotypes into clusters. The clusters were taken as output variables, while the spectral data were used as input variables for the classification models in the machine learning analyses. The configurations tested in the models were spectral bands (SBs), vegetation indices (VIs), and a combination of both. The combination of machine learning algorithms with spectral data can provide important biological information about soybean plants. The classification of soybean genotypes according to calcium, magnesium, and sulfur content can maximize time, effort, and labor in field evaluations in genetic improvement programs. Therefore, the use of spectral bands as input data in random forest algorithms makes the process of classifying soybean genotypes in terms of secondary macronutrients efficient and important for researchers in the field. Full article
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17 pages, 1416 KiB  
Article
Exploring Phenolic Compounds Extraction from Saffron (C. sativus) Floral By-Products Using Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction, Deep Eutectic Solvent Extraction, and Subcritical Water Extraction
by Valentina Masala, Stela Jokić, Krunoslav Aladić, Maja Molnar and Carlo Ignazio Giovanni Tuberoso
Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2600; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112600 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus) floral by-products are a source of phenolic compounds that can be recovered and used in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic industries. This study aimed to evaluate the phenolic compounds’ extraction using green extraction techniques (GETs) in saffron floral [...] Read more.
Saffron (Crocus sativus) floral by-products are a source of phenolic compounds that can be recovered and used in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic industries. This study aimed to evaluate the phenolic compounds’ extraction using green extraction techniques (GETs) in saffron floral by-products and to explore the influence of selected extraction techniques on the phytochemical composition of the extracts. Specifically, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), subcritical water extraction (SWE), and deep eutectic solvents extraction (DESE) were used. Phenolic compounds were identified with (HR) LC-ESI-QTOF MS/MS analysis, and the quantitative analysis was performed with HPLC-PDA. Concerning the extraction techniques, UAE showed the highest amount for both anthocyanins and flavonoids with 50:50% v/v ethanol/water as solvent (93.43 ± 4.67 mg/g of dry plant, dp). Among SWE, extraction with 96% ethanol and t = 125 °C gave the best quantitative results. The 16 different solvent mixtures used for the DESE showed the highest amount of flavonoids (110.95 ± 5.55–73.25 ± 3.66 mg/g dp), while anthocyanins were better extracted with choline chloride:butane-1,4-diol (16.0 ± 0.80 mg/g dp). Consequently, GETs can be employed to extract the bioactive compounds from saffron floral by-products, implementing recycling and reduction of waste and fitting into the broader circular economy discussion. Full article
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18 pages, 6982 KiB  
Article
Fused Filament Fabrication of WC-10Co Hardmetals: A Study on Binder Formulations and Printing Variables
by Julián David Rubiano Buitrago, Andrés Fernando Gil Plazas, Luis Alejandro Boyacá Mendivelso and Liz Karen Herrera Quintero
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2024, 8(3), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp8030118 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This research explores the utilization of powder fused filament fabrication (PFFF) for producing tungsten carbide-cobalt (WC-10Co) hardmetals, focusing on binder formulations and their impact on extrusion force as well as the influence of printing variables on the green and sintered density of samples. [...] Read more.
This research explores the utilization of powder fused filament fabrication (PFFF) for producing tungsten carbide-cobalt (WC-10Co) hardmetals, focusing on binder formulations and their impact on extrusion force as well as the influence of printing variables on the green and sintered density of samples. By examining the interplay between various binder compositions and backbone contents, this study aims to enhance the mechanical properties of the sintered parts while reducing defects inherent in the printing process. Evidence suggests that formulated feedstocks affect the hardness of the sintered hardmetal—not due to microstructural changes but macrostructural responses such as macro defects introduced during printing, debinding, and sintering of samples. The results demonstrate the critical role of polypropylene grafted with maleic anhydride (PP-MA) content in improving part density and sintered hardness, indicating the need for tailored thermal debinding protocols tailored to each feedstock. This study provides insights into feedstock formulation for hardmetal PFFF, proposing a path toward refining manufacturing processes to achieve better quality and performance of 3D printed hardmetal components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High-Performance Metal Additive Manufacturing)
17 pages, 7374 KiB  
Article
Impact of Airborne Exposure to PM10 Increases Susceptibility to P. aeruginosa Infection
by Sharon A. McClellan, Robert Wright, Farooq Muhammed and Linda D. Hazlett
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060722 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The effects of exposure to airborne particulate matter with a size of 10 μm or less (PM10) on C57BL/6 mouse corneas, their response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infection, and the protective effects of SKQ1 were determined. C57BL/6 mouse corneas receiving PBS [...] Read more.
The effects of exposure to airborne particulate matter with a size of 10 μm or less (PM10) on C57BL/6 mouse corneas, their response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infection, and the protective effects of SKQ1 were determined. C57BL/6 mouse corneas receiving PBS or SKQ1 were exposed to control (air) or PM10 for 2 weeks, infected, and the disease was documented by clinical score, PMN quantitation, bacterial plate count, RT-PCR and Western blot. PBS-treated, PM10-exposed corneas did not differ at 1 day postinfection (dpi), but exhibited earlier (3 dpi) corneal thinning compared to controls. By 3 dpi, PM10 significantly increased corneal mRNA levels of several pro-inflammatory cytokines, but decreased IL-10, NQO1, GR1, GPX4, and Nrf2 over control. SKQ1 reversed these effects and Western blot selectively confirmed the RT-PCR results. PM10 resulted in higher viable bacterial plate counts at 1 and 3 dpi, but SKQ1 reduced them at 3 dpi. PM10 significantly increased MPO in the cornea at 3 dpi and was reduced by SKQ1. SKQ1, used as an adjunctive treatment to moxifloxacin, was not significantly different from moxifloxacin alone. Exposure to PM10 increased the susceptibility of C57BL/6 to PA infection; SKQ1 significantly reversed these effects, but was not effective as an adjunctive treatment. Full article
22 pages, 5971 KiB  
Article
Is the Metaverse Dead? Insights from Financial Bubble Analysis
by Pascal Frank and Markus Rudolf
FinTech 2024, 3(2), 302-323; https://doi.org/10.3390/fintech3020017 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This paper explores the economic trends and identifies speculative bubbles within the emerging metaverse, based on the specific example of Decentraland, which is represented by its underlying native token MANA.For comparability, we consider three further tokens: SAND, ETH, and BTC.The study shows price [...] Read more.
This paper explores the economic trends and identifies speculative bubbles within the emerging metaverse, based on the specific example of Decentraland, which is represented by its underlying native token MANA.For comparability, we consider three further tokens: SAND, ETH, and BTC.The study shows price prediction and provides further insight into bubble behavior to provide a deeper insight into the real trend and situation of the metaverse. When comparing all considered tokens, evidence of comovement and positive as well as negative bubbles is identified. This paper makes use of proven modeling techniques, such as SARIMA, for price prediction and LPPLS for financial bubble identification, visualization, and time stamping. Full article
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15 pages, 683 KiB  
Article
Users’ Perceptions of Access to and Quality of Unified Health System Services in Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study and Implications to Healthcare Management Challenges
by Jhoyce S. Souza, Edna A. Reis, Brian Godman, Stephen M. Campbell, Johanna C. Meyer, Luann W. P. Sena and Isabella P. D. Godói
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060721 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Evaluating the access to and quality of healthcare services from the users’ perspective is an important assessment process to identify priorities. This study assessed the profile of health service usage and the views of the Unified Health System (SUS) users about the access [...] Read more.
Evaluating the access to and quality of healthcare services from the users’ perspective is an important assessment process to identify priorities. This study assessed the profile of health service usage and the views of the Unified Health System (SUS) users about the access to and quality of SUS public health services. A cross-sectional study was conducted with participants from the Coastal Lowlands Region of the Rio de Janeiro State/Brazil, between August and November 2023. The association between categorical variables was analyzed using the Pearson Chi-Square test, using R software 4.3. A total of 200 individuals were interviewed using a 66-question survey instrument. Participants who reported using SUS services more frequently rated this system as essential (p-value = 0.031). However, overall, 64% of participants rated the quality of care to be very bad/bad and 34.9% rated access as very bad/bad. Access was considered poor by respondents who used public services rarely or sometimes (p-value = 0.002). In terms of accessing SUS services consultations provided by specialists (e.g., neurologists), these were available only in another municipality (p-value = 0.001). Many participants were SUS dependent for health services, and gaps and weaknesses were observed regarding users’ perspectives of the access to and quality of SUS health care. Policymakers should prioritize evaluations and dialogue with the community to make SUS services responsive and to optimize value-for-money in health service planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Medicine and Healthcare Management)
19 pages, 873 KiB  
Article
Owning versus Renting a Home—Prospects for Generation Z
by Agnieszka Napiórkowska-Baryła, Natalia Świdyńska and Mirosława Witkowska-Dąbrowska
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4715; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114715 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) include sustainable cities and communities. The availability of housing for young people is a contemporary global problem, and the severity of housing problems for young people in many countries is widely discussed and raises important policy questions. Generation [...] Read more.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) include sustainable cities and communities. The availability of housing for young people is a contemporary global problem, and the severity of housing problems for young people in many countries is widely discussed and raises important policy questions. Generation Z, described as digital, critical, adventurous, open-minded and, above all, mobile people, is now entering adulthood. The study attempted to identify the housing preferences of young people to determine whether they prefer renting a flat or owning one. Although generation Z differs from older generations in many respects, their perception of the housing issue does not differ significantly from the attitudes presented by older generations. The dominant model of the housing system in Poland, the non-commodified-familial model, which prefers ownership over renting, is also shared by the youngest generation. Hence, the conclusion addressed to the public authorities and the financing system is to enable the expansion of the credit offer supported by a long-term savings plan aimed at young people. Renting as an alternative way of securing housing needs is also perceived positively, with nearly 80% of respondents stating that they would be able to live in rented accommodation, mainly due to greater mobility, rising property prices and reluctance to take out a long-term loan. Hence, we suggest the need to support institutional renting along the lines of other countries with similar housing systems. Full article
21 pages, 1352 KiB  
Article
Investigation of the Mechanical Behaviors of Sustainable Green Reactive Powder Concrete Produced Using Ferrochrome Slag and Waste Fiber
by Ibrahim Atlı and Metin Ipek
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4714; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114714 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Abstract: Reactive powder concrete (RPC) is a new generation concrete with high strength, used in special structures, and its use is increasing day by day. In this study, instead of using high-strength aggregates typically used in RPC, wastes released in ferrochrome production [...] Read more.
Abstract: Reactive powder concrete (RPC) is a new generation concrete with high strength, used in special structures, and its use is increasing day by day. In this study, instead of using high-strength aggregates typically used in RPC, wastes released in ferrochrome production were used. In addition, the possibility of using fibers obtained from end-of-life automobile tires (ELT), instead of the micro steel fibers typically used in RPC, was investigated. Thus, sustainable green reactive powder concrete (GRPC), the material which is obtained from waste materials except the binder and chemical additive, has been developed. As ferrochrome wastes, olivine, serpentine, rum, slag, and pure waste were used as powder and aggregate in GRPC. Firstly, in GRPC without fiber, the physical and mechanical properties of ferrochrome wastes were examined by using different ratios. Then, the optimum mixture was selected, and different ratios of industrial steel and ELT fiber were added to this mixture. As a result, the compressive strength of GRPC using olivine and pure waste (ferrochrome slag) is close to the reference RPC. However, it is 28% more economical. The flexural strength of the samples with a 4% addition of industrial or ELT fiber increased by 182% and 213%, respectively, compared to the reference sample without fiber. With the use of 4% ELT fiber (by volume) in GRPC, the flexural strength increased by 11% compared to the use of industrial steel fiber. In terms of cost, with the use of ferrochrome waste and ELT fiber, GRPC was 48% more economical. When examined in terms of the flexural and compressive unit strength cost, GRPC was approximately 41% more economical. As a result of this study, high-performance concrete with high mechanical properties that is economical, sustainable, and environmentally friendly has been produced by evaluating the use of waste materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Waste and Recycling)
10 pages, 280 KiB  
Article
Social, Demographic, and Psychological Factors Associated with Middle-Aged Mother’s Vocabulary: Finding from the Millennium Cohort Study
by Helen Cheng and Adrian Furnham
J. Intell. 2024, 12(6), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence12060057 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Based on a sample of 8271 mothers, this study explored a set of psychological and sociodemographic factors associated with their vocabulary, drawing on data from a large, nationally representative sample of children born in 2000. The dependent variable was maternal vocabulary assessed when [...] Read more.
Based on a sample of 8271 mothers, this study explored a set of psychological and sociodemographic factors associated with their vocabulary, drawing on data from a large, nationally representative sample of children born in 2000. The dependent variable was maternal vocabulary assessed when cohort members were at fourteen years of age, and the mothers were in their mid-forties. Data were also collected when cohort members were at birth, 9 months old, and at ages 3 and 7 years. Correlational analysis showed that family income at birth, parent–child relationship quality at age 3, maternal educational qualifications at age 11, and maternal personality trait Openness at age 14 were significantly and positively associated with maternal vocabulary. It also showed maternal malaise at 9 months and children’s behavioral adjustment at age 7, and maternal traits Neuroticism and Agreeableness at age 14 were significantly and negatively associated with maternal vocabulary. Maternal age was also significantly and positively associated with vocabulary. Regression analysis showed that maternal age, malaise, parent–child relationship quality, children’s behavioral adjustment, maternal educational qualifications, and traits Openness and Agreeableness were significant predictors of maternal vocabulary, accounting for 33% of total variance. The implications and limitations are discussed. Full article
17 pages, 705 KiB  
Article
Are Endomyocardial Ventricular Biopsies Useful for Assessing Myocardial Fibrosis?
by Igor Makarov, Daria Voronkina, Alexander Gurshchenkov, Anton Ryzhkov, Anna Starshinova, Dmitry Kudlay and Lubov Mitrofanova
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3275; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113275 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Myocardial fibrosis is an important factor in the progression of cardiovascular diseases. However, there is still no universal lifetime method of myocardial fibrosis assessment that has a high prognostic significance. The aim of the study was to determine the significance of ventricular endomyocardial [...] Read more.
Myocardial fibrosis is an important factor in the progression of cardiovascular diseases. However, there is still no universal lifetime method of myocardial fibrosis assessment that has a high prognostic significance. The aim of the study was to determine the significance of ventricular endomyocardial biopsies for the assessment of myocardial fibrosis and to identify the severity of myocardial fibrosis in different cardiovascular diseases. Material and Methods: Endomyocardial biopsies (EMBs) of 20 patients with chronic lymphocytic myocarditis (CM), endomyocardial fragments obtained during septal reduction of 21 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and 36 patients with a long history of hypertensive and ischemic heart disease (HHD + IHD) were included in the study. The control group was formed from EMBs taken on 12–14 days after heart transplantation (n = 28). Also, for one patient without clinical and morphological data for cardiovascular pathology, postmortem myocardial fragments were taken from typical EMB and septal reduction sites. The relative area of fibrosis was calculated as the ratio of the total area of collagen fibers to the area of the whole biopsy. Endocardium and subendocardial fibrosis were not included in the total biopsy area. Results: The relative fibrosis area in the EMBs in the CM patient group was 5.6 [3.3; 12.6]%, 11.1 [6.6; 15.9]% in the HHD + IHD patient group, 13.4 [8.8; 16.7]% in the HCM patient group, and 2.7 [1.5; 4.6]% in the control group. When comparing the fibrosis area of the CM patients in repeat EMBs, it was found that the fibrosis area in the first EMBs was 7.6 [4.8; 12.0]%, and in repeat EMBs, it was 5.3 [3.2; 7.6]%. No statistically significant differences were found between the primary and repeat EMBs (p = 0.15). In ROC analysis, the area of fibrosis in the myocardium of 1.1% (or lower than one) was found to be highly specific for the control group of patients compared to the study patients. Conclusion: EMB in the assessment of myocardial fibrosis has a questionable role because of the heterogeneity of fibrotic changes in the myocardium after having COVID-19. Full article
13 pages, 523 KiB  
Article
Interferon-Tau in Maternal Peripheral Blood and Its Relationship with Progesterone and Pregnancy-Associated Glycoproteins in the Early Phases of Gestation in Water Buffalo
by Olimpia Barbato, Laura Menchetti, Anna Beatrice Casano, Giovanni Ricci, Giovanna De Matteis, Stella Agradi, Giulio Curone, Gabriele Brecchia, Emilia Larisa Achihaei and Vittoria Lucia Barile
Animals 2024, 14(11), 1658; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111658 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the interferon tau (IFNt) concentration in the peripheral maternal blood during the early phase of pregnancy in buffalo cows and improve the knowledge on the physiological importance of circulating IFNt, evaluating the possible interaction with [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to investigate the interferon tau (IFNt) concentration in the peripheral maternal blood during the early phase of pregnancy in buffalo cows and improve the knowledge on the physiological importance of circulating IFNt, evaluating the possible interaction with pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) and progesterone (P4). Blood samples were taken from buffalo cows on day 0 (day of AI), 7, 14, 18, 28, and 40 post insemination for the IFNt, PAG, and P4 analysis and to determine the IFNt mRNA expression. The animals were categorized ex post into Pregnant, Non-pregnant and Embryo mortality groups. The interferon value was influenced by group (p = 0.003), being always higher in pregnant buffalo cows than in non-pregnant ones, while the embryo mortality group showed intermediate values between those for pregnant and non-pregnant animals. The mRNA expression of IFNt was not influenced by groups or any time points. The regression analysis that included IFNt as the independent variable showed that PAGs, from day 18 (p < 0.01), and P4, from day 28 (p < 0.05), were positively associated with IFNt values. The close associations among IFNt, PAGs and P4 demonstrate that all three molecules work together for fetal–placental well-being and pregnancy support. Unfortunately, the great individual variability in circulating IFNt makes this analysis unsuitable for early pregnancy diagnosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reproductive Management of Ruminants)
8 pages, 553 KiB  
Article
Minimally Invasive Approach for Replacement of the Ascending Aorta towards the Proximal Aortic Arch
by Florian Helms, Ezin Deniz, Heike Krüger, Alina Zubarevich, Jan Dieter Schmitto, Reza Poyanmehr, Martin Hinteregger, Andreas Martens, Alexander Weymann, Arjang Ruhparwar, Bastian Schmack and Aron-Frederik Popov
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3274; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113274 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Objectives: In recent years, minimally invasive approaches have been used with increasing frequency, even for more complex aortic procedures. However, evidence on the practicability and safety of expanding minimally invasive techniques from isolated operations of the ascending aorta towards more complex operations such [...] Read more.
Objectives: In recent years, minimally invasive approaches have been used with increasing frequency, even for more complex aortic procedures. However, evidence on the practicability and safety of expanding minimally invasive techniques from isolated operations of the ascending aorta towards more complex operations such as the hemiarch replacement is still scarce to date. Methods: A total of 86 patients undergoing elective surgical replacement of the ascending aorta with (n = 40) or without (n = 46) concomitant proximal aortic arch replacement between 2009 and 2023 were analyzed in a retrospective single-center analysis. Groups were compared regarding operation times, intra- and postoperative complications and long-term survival. Results: Operation times and ventilation times were significantly longer in the hemiarch replacement group. Despite this, no statistically significant differences between the two groups were observed for the duration of the ICU and hospital stay and postoperative complication rates. At ten-year follow-up, overall survival was 82.6% after isolated ascending aorta replacement and 86.3% after hemiarch replacement (p = 0.441). Conclusions: Expanding the indication for minimally invasive aortic surgery towards the proximal aortic arch resulted in comparable postoperative complication rates, length of hospital stay and overall long-term survival compared to the well-established minimally invasive isolated supracommissural ascending aorta replacement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery)
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13 pages, 2215 KiB  
Article
Moderate-Intensity Constant and High-Intensity Interval Training Confer Differential Metabolic Benefits in Skeletal Muscle, White Adipose Tissue, and Liver of Candidates to Undergo Bariatric Surgery
by Matías Ruíz-Uribe, Javier Enríquez-Schmidt, Manuel Monrroy-Uarac, Camila Mautner-Molina, Mariana Kalazich-Rosales, Maximiliano Muñoz, Francisca Fuentes-Leal, Carlos Cárcamo-Ibaceta, Daniel J. Fazakerley, Mark Larance, Pamela Ehrenfeld and Sergio Martínez-Huenchullán
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3273; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113273 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Bariatric surgery candidates require presurgical physical training, therefore, we compared the metabolic effects of a constant moderate-intensity training program (MICT) vs. a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in this population. Methods: Seventeen participants performed MICT (n = 9, intensity of 50% of heart [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Bariatric surgery candidates require presurgical physical training, therefore, we compared the metabolic effects of a constant moderate-intensity training program (MICT) vs. a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in this population. Methods: Seventeen participants performed MICT (n = 9, intensity of 50% of heart rate reserve (HRR) and/or 4–5/10 subjective sensation of effort (SSE)) or HIIT (n = 8, 6 cycles of 2.5 min at 80% of the HRR and/or 7–8/10 of SSE, interspersed by 6 cycles of active rest at 20% of the FCR) for 10 sessions for 4 weeks. After training, tissue samples (skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and liver) were extracted, and protein levels of adiponectin, GLUT4, PGC1α, phospho-AMPK/AMPK, collagen 1 and TGFβ1 were measured. Results: Participants who performed MICT showed higher protein levels of PGC-1α in skeletal muscle samples (1.1 ± 0.27 vs. 0.7 ± 0.4-fold change, p < 0.05). In the liver samples of the people who performed HIIT, lower protein levels of phospho-AMPK/AMPK (1.0 ± 0.37 vs. 0.52 ± 0.22-fold change), PGC-1α (1.0 ± 0.18 vs. 0.69 ± 0.15-fold change), and collagen 1 (1.0 ± 0.26 vs. 0.59 ± 0.28-fold change) were observed (all p < 0.05). In subcutaneous adipose tissue, higher adiponectin levels were found only after HIIT training (1.1 ± 0.48 vs. 1.9 ± 0.69-fold change, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our results show that both MICT and HIIT confer metabolic benefits in candidates undergoing bariatric surgery; however, most of these benefits have a program-specific fashion. Future studies should aim to elucidate the mechanisms behind these differences. Full article
20 pages, 5062 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Fuzzy Control of an Electronic Differential Based on the Stability Criterion of the Phase Plane Method
by Shaopeng Zhu, Yekai Xu, Linlin Li, Yong Ren, Chenyang Kuang, Huipeng Chen and Jian Gao
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(6), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15060243 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
To improve the handling stability of distributed drive electric vehicles, this paper introduces an electronic differential control strategy based on the stability criterion of the phase plane method. The strategy first plots the distributed electric vehicle’s center of mass side angle and center [...] Read more.
To improve the handling stability of distributed drive electric vehicles, this paper introduces an electronic differential control strategy based on the stability criterion of the phase plane method. The strategy first plots the distributed electric vehicle’s center of mass side angle and center of mass angular speed on the phase plane, and then it analyzes the vehicle’s stability under various working conditions to determine the parameters that ensure the stability performance. Subsequently, an adaptive fuzzy control strategy is employed to achieve fast and accurate distribution of the torque to each wheel, thereby enhancing the vehicle’s stability. A joint simulation platform is constructed using MATLAB/Simulink and CarSim. A comparison with the traditional electronic differential strategy demonstrates that the proposed distribution strategy based on phase plane stability exhibited excellent stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamics, Control and Simulation of Electrified Vehicles)
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26 pages, 14300 KiB  
Article
SolDef_AI: An Open Source PCB Dataset for Mask R-CNN Defect Detection in Soldering Processes of Electronic Components
by Gianmauro Fontana, Maurizio Calabrese, Leonardo Agnusdei, Gabriele Papadia and Antonio Del Prete
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2024, 8(3), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp8030117 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The soldering process for aerospace applications follows stringent requirements and standards to ensure the reliability and safety of electronic connections in aerospace systems. For this reason, the quality control phase plays an important role to guarantee requirements compliance. This process often requires manual [...] Read more.
The soldering process for aerospace applications follows stringent requirements and standards to ensure the reliability and safety of electronic connections in aerospace systems. For this reason, the quality control phase plays an important role to guarantee requirements compliance. This process often requires manual control since technicians’ knowledge is fundamental to obtain effective quality check results. In this context, the authors have developed a new open source dataset (SolDef_AI) to implement an innovative methodology for printed circuit board (PCB) defect detection exploiting the Mask R-CNN algorithm. The presented open source dataset aims to overcome the challenges associated with the availability of datasets for model training in this specific research and electronics industrial field. The dataset is open source and available online. Full article
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20 pages, 4552 KiB  
Perspective
CP2DIMG: An Innovative Research Program Aimed at Preparing Firefighters and Police Officers to Manage Emotions and Stress in Operational Contexts
by Frédéric Antoine-Santoni, Jean-Louis Rossi, Claude Devichi, Arielle Syssau, Pauline-Marie Ortoli, Adil Yakhloufi, Sofiane Meradji, Yolhan Mannes, Thierry Marcelli, François-Joseph Chatelon, Lucile Rossi, Jean-Paul Jauffret, Stéphane Chatton and Dominique Grandjean-Kruslin
Fire 2024, 7(6), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire7060188 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This paper presents a research program called CP2DIMG conducted at the Federation of Environment and Society Research at the University of Corsica. The goal of CP2DIMG is to better understand the influence of emotions on operational personnel’s decision-making, aiming to test training systems [...] Read more.
This paper presents a research program called CP2DIMG conducted at the Federation of Environment and Society Research at the University of Corsica. The goal of CP2DIMG is to better understand the influence of emotions on operational personnel’s decision-making, aiming to test training systems dedicated to individuals facing high stress during their professional activities. This type of training system is intended to enhance emotional and mental resilience, thereby improving decision-making ability in uncertain situations under the influence of emotions related to the event. For implementation, the method will be tailored to the specificities of two categories of operational personnel: firefighters and municipal police officers. The expected results will address significant demands from operational professionals in the Mediterranean region for firefighting safety but also for large-scale or highly complex interventions. This study fully integrates into the challenges of the Mediterranean region: forest management, risk prevention plans, and preparedness of local actors responsible for crisis management. Furthermore, individuals responsible for crisis management, including local government officials and risk management and security personnel, will be able to use the obtained results for effective decision-making. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Safety and Emergency Evacuation)
21 pages, 1461 KiB  
Article
DSTree: A Spatio-Temporal Indexing Data Structure for Distributed Networks
by Majid Hojati, Steven Roberts and Colin Robertson
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/mca29030042 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The widespread availability of tools to collect and share spatial data enables us to produce a large amount of geographic information on a daily basis. This enormous production of spatial data requires scalable data management systems. Geospatial architectures have changed from clusters to [...] Read more.
The widespread availability of tools to collect and share spatial data enables us to produce a large amount of geographic information on a daily basis. This enormous production of spatial data requires scalable data management systems. Geospatial architectures have changed from clusters to cloud architectures and more parallel and distributed processing platforms to be able to tackle these challenges. Peer-to-peer (P2P) systems as a backbone of distributed systems have been established in several application areas such as web3, blockchains, and crypto-currencies. Unlike centralized systems, data storage in P2P networks is distributed across network nodes, providing scalability and no single point of failure. However, managing and processing queries on these networks has always been challenging. In this work, we propose a spatio-temporal indexing data structure, DSTree. DSTree does not require additional Distributed Hash Trees (DHTs) to perform multi-dimensional range queries. Inserting a piece of new geographic information updates only a portion of the tree structure and does not impact the entire graph of the data. For example, for time-series data, such as storing sensor data, the DSTree performs around 40% faster in spatio-temporal queries for small and medium datasets. Despite the advantages of our proposed framework, challenges such as 20% slower insertion speed or semantic query capabilities remain. We conclude that more significant research effort from GIScience and related fields in developing decentralized applications is needed. The need for the standardization of different geographic information when sharing data on the IPFS network is one of the requirements. Full article
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20 pages, 712 KiB  
Article
Feed Additives Based on N. gaditana and A. platensis Blend Improve Quality Parameters of Aquacultured Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata) Fresh Fillets
by María Isabel Sáez, Alba Galafat, Silvana Teresa Tapia Paniagua, Juan Antonio Martos-Sitcha, Francisco Javier Alarcón-López and Tomás Francisco Martínez Moya
Fishes 2024, 9(6), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9060205 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this research is to explore the potential effects of two microalgae-based additives included in finishing feeds on the quality and shelf-life of seabream fillets. In a 41-day feeding trial, seabream specimens were fed with experimental aquafeeds containing 10% of the [...] Read more.
The aim of this research is to explore the potential effects of two microalgae-based additives included in finishing feeds on the quality and shelf-life of seabream fillets. In a 41-day feeding trial, seabream specimens were fed with experimental aquafeeds containing 10% of the bioactive supplements. These additives consisted of a blend of Nannochloropsis gaditana and Arthrospira platensis biomass, which was utilized as either raw (LB-CB) or enzymatically hydrolyzed (LB-CBplus). A control group received a microalgae-free diet. The results showed that the functional aquafeeds improved the nutritional profile of seabream fillets, increasing protein and PUFA-n3 contents while reducing the atherogenic index, especially for the LB-CBplus treatment. LB-CBplus also enhanced the texture parameters (hardness and chewiness) of fillets during the initial 5 days under cold storage. Regarding skin pigmentation, fillets showed increased greenish and yellowish coloration compared to control fish, mostly attributed to the inclusion of crude algal biomass (LB-CB). Moreover, diets enriched with microalgae additives effectively delayed muscle lipid oxidation processes under refrigeration for up to 12 days, with LB-CBplus exhibiting higher antioxidant effects. These findings highlight the potential of microalgae-based additives to enhance both the nutritional and organoleptic quality of seabream fillets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Feed Additives on Fish Health and Fillet Quality)
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50 pages, 5391 KiB  
Article
Exploring Students’ and Teachers’ Insights on School-Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Safety: A Case Study of Western Morava Basin, Serbia
by Vladimir M. Cvetković, Neda Nikolić and Tin Lukić
Safety 2024, 10(2), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10020050 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Integrated disaster risk reduction in schools represents a key component of safety strategies within the educational sector of every country. The aim of this study is to comprehensively explore the impact of various demographic and socio-economic factors on the perceptions of students and [...] Read more.
Integrated disaster risk reduction in schools represents a key component of safety strategies within the educational sector of every country. The aim of this study is to comprehensively explore the impact of various demographic and socio-economic factors on the perceptions of students and teachers regarding disaster risk reduction and safety in schools. This study is distinguished by its extensive empirical approach, employing a multistage random sampling method to conduct 850 face-to-face interviews (650 with students and 200 with teachers) throughout 2023 in 10 out of the total 18 municipalities in the Western Morava Basin of the Republic of Serbia. Two structured survey instruments were developed, incorporating a mix of qualitative (closed-ended) multiple-choice questions and five-point Likert scales. The research proposes two central hypotheses regarding school-based disaster risk reduction. Firstly, it suggests that gender, age, parent’s employment, academic achievement, living situation, parental education levels, and engagement with social media collectively influence students’ perspectives on this matter (H1–H8). Secondly, it posits that gender, age, marital status, parenthood, and educational background significantly impact teachers’ viewpoints on school-based disaster risk reduction (H1–H5). Multivariate linear regression was used to explore predictors of students’ and teachers’ insights on school-based disaster risk reduction. Various statistical tests, including Chi-square, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation, were employed to investigate the influence of demographic and socioeconomic factors on these insights. The results of multivariate regression analyses indicate that age, gender, and marital status emerge as the primary predictors across various facets of students’ and teachers’ insights on school-based disaster risk reduction, including awareness of disasters, disaster education activities, attitudes toward disaster risk reduction education, and enhancement of disaster information accessibility. The findings of this study provide comprehensive insights into the key factors influencing students’ and teachers’ perceptions of disaster risk reduction in schools. This research not only contributes to the academic discourse on disaster education but also serves as a foundational basis for improving educational programs, developing policies and strategies, refining normative educational frameworks, guiding teacher training, and informing further research in disaster education. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Risk Assessment—Health and Safety)
12 pages, 465 KiB  
Article
A Study on the Relationship between Work-Related Health Problems and the Working Conditions of Electronics Industry Workers in South Korea
by Sul A. Won, Jae Wook Choi and Kyung Hee Kim
Safety 2024, 10(2), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10020049 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The electronics industry has characteristics, such as the continuous occurrence of new hazards and risk factors due to rapid technological changes, the occurrence of safety and health blind spots due to the outsourcing of work, trade secrets, and a lack of information, [...] Read more.
Background: The electronics industry has characteristics, such as the continuous occurrence of new hazards and risk factors due to rapid technological changes, the occurrence of safety and health blind spots due to the outsourcing of work, trade secrets, and a lack of information, so research is needed from a safety and health perspective. This study sought to determine the relationship between work-related health problems and the working conditions of electronics industry workers. Methods: The study subjects were 3354 workers in the electronics industry from the raw data of the 4th to 6th Korean Working Condition Survey (KWCS). The variables were divided into general, occupational, and working environment characteristics, and a logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between work-related health problems and working conditions. Results: Among the general and occupational characteristics, gender, education, night work, and working time appropriateness were analyzed as effect factors. In terms of working environment characteristics, physical work risk, musculoskeletal work risk, possibility of risk to work, subjective health impact, and working environment satisfaction were found to have effects on work-related health problems. Conclusions: The results of this study are meaningful in that they identified the effect factors of work-related health problems in the working conditions of workers in the electronics industry, where prior studies are lacking. Therefore, improvements, such as the management of night workers, appropriate working time, reduction in exposure to work risk factors, and improvement in working environment satisfaction, appear to be necessary. Full article
11 pages, 587 KiB  
Article
Accuracy of Digital Imaging Software to Predict Soft Tissue Changes during Orthodontic Treatment
by Theerasak Nakornnoi and Pannapat Chanmanee
J. Imaging 2024, 10(6), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/jimaging10060134 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the Digital Imaging software in the prediction of soft tissue changes following three types of orthodontic interventions: non-extraction, extraction, and orthognathic surgery treatments. Ninety-six patients were randomly selected from the records of three orthodontic interventions [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the Digital Imaging software in the prediction of soft tissue changes following three types of orthodontic interventions: non-extraction, extraction, and orthognathic surgery treatments. Ninety-six patients were randomly selected from the records of three orthodontic interventions (32 subjects per group): (1) non-extraction, (2) extraction, and (3) orthodontic treatment combined with orthognathic surgery. The cephalometric analysis of soft tissue changes in both the actual post-treatment and the predicted treatment was performed using Dolphin Imaging software version 11.9. A paired t-test was utilized to assess the statistically significant differences between the predicted and actual treatment outcomes of the parameters (p < 0.05). In the non-extraction group, prediction errors were exhibited only in the lower lip parameters. In the extraction group, prediction errors were observed in both the upper and lower lip parameters. In the orthognathic surgery group, prediction errors were identified in chin thickness, facial contour angle, and upper and lower lip parameters (p < 0.05). Digital Imaging software exhibited inaccurate soft tissue prediction of 0.3–1.0 mm in some parameters of all treatment groups, which should be considered regarding the application of Dolphin Imaging software in orthodontic treatment planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging)

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