The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
28 pages, 4950 KiB  
Article
Comparative Physio-Biochemical and Transcriptome Analyses Reveal Contrasting Responses to Magnesium Imbalances in Leaves of Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Plants
by Yisu Shi, Xin Jin, Michael Ackah, Frank Kwarteng Amoako, Jianbin Li, Victor Edem Tsigbey, Haonan Li, Zipei Cui, Longwei Sun, Chengfeng Zhao and Weiguo Zhao
Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050516 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is a major factor limiting the growth and development of plants. Mulberry (Morus alba L.) is an important fruit tree crop that requires Mg for optimal growth and yield, especially in acid soils. However, the molecular mechanism of Mg [...] Read more.
Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is a major factor limiting the growth and development of plants. Mulberry (Morus alba L.) is an important fruit tree crop that requires Mg for optimal growth and yield, especially in acid soils. However, the molecular mechanism of Mg stress tolerance in mulberry plants remains unknown. In this study, we used next-generation sequencing technology and biochemical analysis to profile the transcriptome and physiological changes of mulberry leaves under different Mg treatments (deficiency: 0 mM, low: 1 mM, moderate low: 2 mM, sufficiency: 3 mM, toxicity: 6 mM, higher toxicity: 9 mM) as T1, T2, T3, CK, T4, T5 treatments, respectively, for 20 days. The results showed that Mg imbalance altered the antioxidant enzymatic activities, such as catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and non-enzymatic, including soluble protein, soluble sugar, malondialdehyde (MDA), and proline (PRO), contents of the plant. The Mg imbalances disrupted the ultrastructures of the vital components of chloroplast and mitochondria relative to the control. The transcriptome data reveal that 11,030 genes were differentially expressed (DEGs). Genes related to the photosynthetic processes (CAB40, CAB7, CAB6A, CAB-151, CAP10A) and chlorophyll degradation (PAO, CHLASE1, SGR) were altered. Antioxidant genes such as PER42, PER21, and PER47 were downregulated, but DFR was upregulated. The carbohydrate metabolism pathway was significantly altered, while those involved in energy metabolism processes were perturbed under high Mg treatment compared with control. We also identified several candidate genes associated with magnesium homeostasis via RT-qPCR validation analysis, which provided valuable information for further functional characterization studies such as promoter activity assay or gene overexpression experiments using transient expression systems. Full article
21 pages, 6036 KiB  
Article
Triptolide, a Cancer Cell Proliferation Inhibitor, Causes Zebrafish Muscle Defects by Regulating Notch and STAT3 Signaling Pathways
by Byongsun Lee, Yongjin Park, Younggwang Lee, Seyoung Kwon and Jaekyung Shim
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4675; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094675 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Triptolide is a natural compound in herbal remedies with anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. We studied its effects on critical signaling processes within the cell, including Notch1 and STAT3 signaling. Our research showed that triptolide reduces cancer cell proliferation by decreasing the expression of [...] Read more.
Triptolide is a natural compound in herbal remedies with anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. We studied its effects on critical signaling processes within the cell, including Notch1 and STAT3 signaling. Our research showed that triptolide reduces cancer cell proliferation by decreasing the expression of downstream targets of these signals. The levels of each signal-related protein and mRNA were analyzed using Western blot and qPCR methods. Interestingly, inhibiting one signal with a single inhibitor alone did not significantly reduce cancer cell proliferation. Instead, MTT assays showed that the simultaneous inhibition of Notch1 and STAT3 signaling reduced cell proliferation. The effect of triptolide was similar to a combination treatment with inhibitors for both signals. When we conducted a study on the impact of triptolide on zebrafish larvae, we found that it inhibited muscle development and interfered with muscle cell proliferation, as evidenced by differences in the staining of myosin heavy chain and F-actin proteins in confocal fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, we noticed that inhibiting a single type of signaling did not lead to any significant muscle defects. This implies that triptolide obstructs multiple signals simultaneously, including Notch1 and STAT3, during muscle development. Chemotherapy is commonly used to treat cancer, but it may cause muscle loss due to drug-related adverse reactions or other complex mechanisms. Our study suggests that anticancer agents like triptolide, inhibiting essential signaling pathways including Notch1 and STAT3 signaling, may cause muscle atrophy through anti-proliferative activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Muscle Atrophy: From Bench to Bedside 2.0)
23 pages, 13554 KiB  
Article
Research on the Crushing of Reinforced Concrete Two-Way Slabs by Pulse Power Discharge Technology
by Xinxin Lin, Fei Yang, Youwei Liu and Yang Yang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051222 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The application of pulse power discharge (PPD) technology in the crushing and dismantling of concrete structures has characteristics related to both green and environmental protection, as well as safety and reliability, with broad application prospects in the construction and municipal engineering fields in [...] Read more.
The application of pulse power discharge (PPD) technology in the crushing and dismantling of concrete structures has characteristics related to both green and environmental protection, as well as safety and reliability, with broad application prospects in the construction and municipal engineering fields in dense urban areas. Nevertheless, the research into using this technology to break reinforced concrete (RC) slabs is very limited, while the influence of key parameters on the crushing effect of reinforced concrete slabs is not clear. To solve this problem, a finite element model of an RC slab was established by ABAQUS. The effect of a shock wave generated by PPD on the surrounding concrete was simulated by an explosion-load equivalent, and the development process of concrete crack was simulated by a cohesive force model. Based on the results of the model analysis, the effects of reinforcement spacing, as well as diameter and concrete strength on the crushing effect of RC slabs were investigated. The results show that the increase in reinforcement diameter and the decrease in reinforcement spacing have a significant effect on limiting the development of cracks. According to the development of cracks, they can be divided into three types: edge cracks, cracks between central holes, and cracks between edge holes. The influence of reinforcement spacing and diameter on the first two crack widths is the most obvious. The increase in concrete strength also reduces the width of cracks. Based on the analysis results, the calculation expressions of the crushing effect of the PPD technique on RC slabs were established, which provides theoretical support for the popularization and application of this technique. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamic Response of Structures)
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16 pages, 442 KiB  
Article
Moral Distress and Moral Agency: Staff Experience of Supporting Self-Determination for People with Dementia
by Cecilia Ingard, Maria Sjölund and Sven Trygged
Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(5), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13050237 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
People living in nursing homes have the right to self-determination, and difficulty in accommodating this right can create moral distress in staff. This study aimed to explore experiences of situations of moral distress and to identify nursing home staffs’ needs to act with [...] Read more.
People living in nursing homes have the right to self-determination, and difficulty in accommodating this right can create moral distress in staff. This study aimed to explore experiences of situations of moral distress and to identify nursing home staffs’ needs to act with moral agency. Six group interviews were conducted with nursing home staff. Content analysis of the interview responses showed that moral distress can be rooted in both concrete situations with residents and factors related to the work environment and policy requirements. Personnel can address moral distress through both active and passive means. Staff acted to address moral distress mainly in situations with residents and sometimes in relation to co-workers, but they did not try to influence the policy level. Full article
17 pages, 415 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Healthcare Quality and Job Satisfaction through Organizational Culture: Approaches and Outcomes
by Greta Hoxha, Ioanna Simeli, Dimitrios Theocharis, Anastasia Vasileiou and Georgios Tsekouropoulos
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3603; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093603 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper explores innovative strategies to enhance sustainable healthcare quality, emphasizing the pivotal role of organizational culture and placing a special focus on employee job satisfaction. Recognizing the indispensable nature of contented employees in delivering superior patient care, our discussion explores how an [...] Read more.
This paper explores innovative strategies to enhance sustainable healthcare quality, emphasizing the pivotal role of organizational culture and placing a special focus on employee job satisfaction. Recognizing the indispensable nature of contented employees in delivering superior patient care, our discussion explores how an organizational culture that prioritizes optimized work processes, and a supportive work environment can significantly boost employee well-being. By mitigating workplace stress through the refinement of operations and the minimization of waste, healthcare organizations can foster a setting that greatly enhances job satisfaction. This enhancement, in turn, catalyzes superior patient care and underscores the healthcare system’s dedication to sustainability and the well-being of its employees. Our analysis indicates that concentrating on employee satisfaction, deeply rooted in the organizational culture, is not merely advantageous but essential for nurturing a sustainable, high-quality healthcare system. The insights offered aim to guide healthcare organizations toward embracing strategies such as Green Lean Six Sigma, with a heightened focus on improving workforce well-being through the lens of organizational culture. This approach is expected to produce a synergistic improvement in healthcare quality by promoting operational efficiency and advancing environmental sustainability in tandem. Full article
18 pages, 1805 KiB  
Article
Geometric Complexity Control in Topology Optimization of 3D-Printed Fiber Composites for Performance Enhancement
by Tao Wu, Peiqing Liu and Jikai Liu
Materials 2024, 17(9), 2005; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17092005 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper investigates the impact of varying the part geometric complexity and 3D printing process setup on the resulting structural load bearing capacity of fiber composites. Three levels of geometric complexity are developed through 2.5D topology optimization, 3D topology optimization, and 3D topology [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the impact of varying the part geometric complexity and 3D printing process setup on the resulting structural load bearing capacity of fiber composites. Three levels of geometric complexity are developed through 2.5D topology optimization, 3D topology optimization, and 3D topology optimization with directional material removal. The 3D topology optimization is performed with the SIMP method and accelerated by high-performance computing. The directional material removal is realized by incorporating the advection-diffusion partial differential equation-based filter to prevent interior void or undercut in certain directions. A set of 3D printing and mechanical performance tests are performed. It is interestingly found that, the printing direction affects significantly on the result performance and if subject to the uni direction, the load-bearing capacity increases from the 2.5D samples to the 3D samples with the increased complexity, but the load-bearing capacity further increases for the 3D simplified samples due to directional material removal. Hence, it is concluded that a restricted structural complexity is suitable for topology optimization of 3D-printed fiber composites, since large area cross-sections give more degrees of design freedom to the fiber path layout and also makes the inter-layer bond of the filaments firmer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Additive Manufacturing of Polymer-Fiber Composites)
18 pages, 709 KiB  
Article
Responses of Protozoan Communities to Multiple Environmental Stresses (Warming, Eutrophication, and Pesticide Pollution)
by Guoqing Yuan, Yue Chen, Yulu Wang, Hanwen Zhang, Hongxia Wang, Mixue Jiang, Xiaonan Zhang, Yingchun Gong and Saibo Yuan
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1293; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091293 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
To explore the impacts of multiple environmental stressors on animal communities in aquatic ecosystems, we selected protozoa—a highly sensitive group of organisms—to assess the effect of environmental change. To conduct this simulation we conducted a three-factor, outdoor, mesocosm experiment from March to November [...] Read more.
To explore the impacts of multiple environmental stressors on animal communities in aquatic ecosystems, we selected protozoa—a highly sensitive group of organisms—to assess the effect of environmental change. To conduct this simulation we conducted a three-factor, outdoor, mesocosm experiment from March to November 2021. Changes in the community structure and functional group composition of protozoan communities under the separate and combined effects of these three environmental stressors were investigated by warming and the addition of nitrogen, phosphorus, and pesticides. The results were as follows: (1) Both eutrophication and pesticides had a considerable promotional effect on the abundance and biomass of protozoa; the effect of warming was not considerable. When warming was combined with eutrophication and pesticides, there was a synergistic effect and antagonistic effect, respectively. (2) Eutrophication promoted α diversity of protozoa and affected their species richness and dominant species composition; the combination of warming and pesticides remarkably reduced the α diversity of protozoa. (3) Warming, eutrophication, and pesticides were important factors affecting the functional groups of protozoa. Interaction among different environmental factors could complicate changes in the aquatic ecological environment and its protozoan communities. Indeed, in the context of climate change, it might be more difficult to predict future trends in the protozoan community. Therefore, our results provide a scientific basis for the protection and restoration of shallow lake ecosystems; they also offer valuable insights in predicting changes in shallow lakes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ecology and Conservation)
16 pages, 10000 KiB  
Article
Microwave Dielectric Response of Bovine Milk As Pregnancy Detection Tool in Dairy Cows
by Cindy Galindo, Guy Levy, Yuri Feldman, Zvi Roth, Jonathan Shalev, Chen Raz, Edo Mor and Nurit Argov-Argaman
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2742; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092742 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The most reliable methods for pregnancy diagnosis in dairy herds include rectal palpation, ultrasound examination, and evaluation of plasma progesterone concentrations. However, these methods are expensive, labor-intensive, and invasive. Thus, there is a need to develop a practical, non-invasive, cost-effective method that can [...] Read more.
The most reliable methods for pregnancy diagnosis in dairy herds include rectal palpation, ultrasound examination, and evaluation of plasma progesterone concentrations. However, these methods are expensive, labor-intensive, and invasive. Thus, there is a need to develop a practical, non-invasive, cost-effective method that can be implemented on the farm to detect pregnancy. This study suggests employing microwave dielectric spectroscopy (MDS, 0.5–40 GHz) as a method to evaluate reproduction events in dairy cows. The approach involves the integration of MDS data with information on milk solids to detect pregnancy and identify early embryonic loss in dairy cows. To test the ability to predict pregnancy according to these measurements, milk samples were collected from (i) pregnant and non-pregnant randomly selected cows, (ii) weekly from selected cows (n = 12) before insemination until a positive pregnancy test, and (iii) daily from selected cows (n = 10) prior to insemination until a positive pregnancy test. The results indicated that the dielectric strength of Δε and the relaxation time, τ, exhibited reduced variability in the case of a positive pregnancy diagnosis. Using principal component analysis (PCA), a clear distinction between pregnancy and nonpregnancy status was observed, with improved differentiation upon a higher sampling frequency. Additionally, a neural network machine learning technique was employed to develop a prediction algorithm with an accuracy of 73%. These findings demonstrate that MDS can be used to detect changes in milk upon pregnancy. The developed machine learning provides a broad classification that could be further enhanced with additional data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electromagnetic Wave Detection and Sensing Technology)
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18 pages, 1577 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Decoupling Method Based on Motor Dynamic Compensation with Application for Precision Mechatronic Systems
by Kaixin Liu, Yang Liu, Fazhi Song and Jiubin Tan
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2038; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092038 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Motors are widely employed in mechatronic systems, especially in precision multiple degrees of freedom motion systems. In most applications, the dynamic equation between the motor instruction and the actual driving force is simplified as a constant. Subsequently, the static decoupling method can be [...] Read more.
Motors are widely employed in mechatronic systems, especially in precision multiple degrees of freedom motion systems. In most applications, the dynamic equation between the motor instruction and the actual driving force is simplified as a constant. Subsequently, the static decoupling method can be utilized to design the feedback controller. However, in high-precision mechatronic systems, motor dynamics cannot be neglected, and the static decoupling performance is compromised due to discrepancies between motors. In this paper, a dynamic decoupling method is developed to improve the decoupling performance of the multiple-input multiple-output systems. The effects of transmission delays, motor dynamics, and discrepancies between different motors are taken into consideration in the dynamic decoupling method. Furthermore, a data-driven optimization method is developed to estimate the parameters of the dynamic decoupling controller. The effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method are demonstrated through numerical simulations. The experimental results show that the dynamic decoupling control method can achieve a 97.75% performance improvement at least compared to the static decoupling control method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Linear/Planar Motors and Other Special Motors)
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61 pages, 1256 KiB  
Review
Pharmacotherapy for Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars
by Teruo Murakami and Sadayuki Shigeki
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4674; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094674 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Keloids (KD) and hypertrophic scars (HTS), which are quite raised and pigmented and have increased vascularization and cellularity, are formed due to the impaired healing process of cutaneous injuries in some individuals having family history and genetic factors. These scars decrease the quality [...] Read more.
Keloids (KD) and hypertrophic scars (HTS), which are quite raised and pigmented and have increased vascularization and cellularity, are formed due to the impaired healing process of cutaneous injuries in some individuals having family history and genetic factors. These scars decrease the quality of life (QOL) of patients greatly, due to the pain, itching, contracture, cosmetic problems, and so on, depending on the location of the scars. Treatment/prevention that will satisfy patients’ QOL is still under development. In this article, we review pharmacotherapy for treating KD and HTS, including the prevention of postsurgical recurrence (especially KD). Pharmacotherapy involves monotherapy using a single drug and combination pharmacotherapy using multiple drugs, where drugs are administered orally, topically and/or through intralesional injection. In addition, pharmacotherapy for KD/HTS is sometimes combined with surgical excision and/or with physical therapy such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, radiotherapy including brachytherapy, and silicone gel/sheeting. The results regarding the clinical effectiveness of each mono-pharmacotherapy for KD/HTS are not always consistent but rather scattered among researchers. Multimodal combination pharmacotherapy that targets multiple sites simultaneously is more effective than mono-pharmacotherapy. The literature was searched using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Online search engines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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16 pages, 3235 KiB  
Article
Batch to Continuous: From Laboratory Recycle Trickle Bed Test Reactor Data to Full-Scale Plant Preliminary Design—A Case Study Based on the Hydrogenation of Resorcinol
by Steve D. Pollington, Bal S. Kalirai and E. Hugh Stitt
Processes 2024, 12(5), 859; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050859 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The fine chemical and pharmaceutical sectors are starting to advocate for the use of flow chemistry due to reasons such as the environment, health and safety, efficiency, cost saving, and regulatory compliance. The use of a trickle bed or fixed bed system could [...] Read more.
The fine chemical and pharmaceutical sectors are starting to advocate for the use of flow chemistry due to reasons such as the environment, health and safety, efficiency, cost saving, and regulatory compliance. The use of a trickle bed or fixed bed system could replace a batch autoclave typically used for hydrogenation reactions. However, there are few studies that detail the process from laboratory proof of concept through design to commercial realization. This study, using the production of 1,3-cyclohexanedione from the catalytic hydrogenation of resorcinol as a case study, demonstrates how the laboratory-scale recycle trickle bed can be used for catalyst screening and selection. Further, design data are generated by operation over a range of design superficial velocities and operating pressures that are used to derive a design correlation that is then used to specify a single stream plant at a level of definition consistent with a Preliminary Design for capital cost estimation. Finally, the further actions required in terms of data generation to increase the level of definition and confidence to a sanction grade or final design are discussed. Full article
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21 pages, 6024 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Vulnerability and Adaptation Needs of Mozambique’s Health Sector to Climate: A Comprehensive Study
by Rachid Muleia, Genito Maúre, Américo José, Plácida Maholela, Isaac Akpor Adjei, Md. Rezaul Karim, Sónia Trigo, Waltaji Kutane, Osvaldo Inlamea, Lawrence N. Kazembe and Tatiana Marufo
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050532 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Climate change poses severe consequences, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where poverty rates may escalate by 2050 without significant climate and development action. The health impacts are diverse, encompassing communicable and non-communicable diseases. Mozambique, a climate-vulnerable nation, has experienced significant natural disasters in the [...] Read more.
Climate change poses severe consequences, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where poverty rates may escalate by 2050 without significant climate and development action. The health impacts are diverse, encompassing communicable and non-communicable diseases. Mozambique, a climate-vulnerable nation, has experienced significant natural disasters in the past 42 years, impacting its health system. This study aims to assess Mozambique’s health sector’s vulnerability and adaptation needs to climate change. Following a methodology proposed by the World Health Organization and the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change, a six-step vulnerability and adaptation assessment was conducted to conduct the Health Vulnerability Index (HVI) for Mozambique’s regions (n=161). The HVI integrates historical climate, epidemiological, and socio-economic data at the district level, and was computed using exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity dimensions. The results revealed spatial patterns in exposure to climate variables, extreme weather events, and variations in sensitivity and adaptive capacity across the country. The HVI mirrored the exposure findings. Notably, high vulnerability was observed in several districts, while major urban centers displayed lower vulnerability. These findings highlight the country’s vulnerability to climate change and underscore the potential for adverse impacts on livelihoods, the economy, and human health. The study provides a foundation for developing strategies and adaptation actions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)
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26 pages, 755 KiB  
Review
Health-Related Physical Fitness Evaluation in HIV-Diagnosed Children and Adolescents: A Scoping Review
by João Antônio Chula de Castro, Tiago Rodrigues de Lima and Diego Augusto Santos Silva
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050541 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Health-related physical fitness has been widely used to investigate the adverse effects of HIV infection/ART in children and adolescents. However, methods/protocols and cut-points applied for investigating health-related physical fitness are not clear. The aim of this scoping review was to map the [...] Read more.
Background: Health-related physical fitness has been widely used to investigate the adverse effects of HIV infection/ART in children and adolescents. However, methods/protocols and cut-points applied for investigating health-related physical fitness are not clear. The aim of this scoping review was to map the literature to identify gaps in knowledge regarding the methods/protocols and cut-points. Methods: A scoping review, following the Joana Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines, was conducted through ten major databases. Search followed the PCC strategy to construct block of terms related to population (children and adolescents), concept (health-related physical fitness components) and context (HIV infection). Results: The search resulted in 7545 studies. After duplicate removal, titles and abstracts reading and full text assessment, 246 studies were included in the scoping review. Body composition was the most investigated component (n= 244), followed by muscular strength/endurance (n = 23), cardiorespiratory fitness (n = 15) and flexibility (n = 4). The World Health Organization growth curves, and nationals’ surveys were the most reference values applied to classify body composition (n = 149), followed by internal cut-points (n = 30) and cut-points developed through small populations (n = 16). Cardiorespiratory fitness was classified through cut-points from three different assessment batteries, as well as cut-points developed through studies with small populations, muscular strength/endurance and flexibility were classified through the same cut-points from five different assessment batteries. Conclusions: The research on muscular strength/endurance, cardiorespiratory fitness and flexibility has been scarcely explored. The lack of studies that investigated method usability as well as reference values was evidenced. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle Behaviors and Health Promotion in Young People)
9 pages, 356 KiB  
Communication
Numerical Study on Monopole Production and Deconfinement Transition in Two-Condensate Charged Systems
by Kai Kang, Jie Li, Guo Wang, Jiangning Zhang, Jiantao Che, Tianyi Han and Hai Huang
Crystals 2024, 14(5), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14050397 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The condensed matter Bose system may contain effective monopole quasiparticles in its excitation spectrum. In this paper, we first accomplish the mapping of the two-band Ginzburg–Landau theory to the extended CP1 model, and then perform the Monte Carlo simulations on the [...] Read more.
The condensed matter Bose system may contain effective monopole quasiparticles in its excitation spectrum. In this paper, we first accomplish the mapping of the two-band Ginzburg–Landau theory to the extended CP1 model, and then perform the Monte Carlo simulations on the 50×50×50 cubic lattice with periodic boundary conditions. With the numerical data of monopole density and magnetic susceptibility, we indicate that there exists a monopole–antimonopole deconfinement transition for the two-band superconducting system with the critical temperature above 70 K. We also suggest the possible detection of this new monopole plasma phase in high-Tc iron-based superconductors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Superconductors and Magnetic Materials)
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12 pages, 1304 KiB  
Article
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of the Sphenoid Sinus in Patients with Non-Functioning Pituitary Adenoma
by Mircea-Viorel Ciurea, Ioan Ștefan Florian, Manuela Lenghel, Diana-Raluca Petea-Balea, Alexandra Roman and Silviu Albu
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 708; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050708 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is part of the diagnostic protocol in pituitary adenoma patients. The goal of the present study is to present and analyse the MRI appearances of the sphenoid sinus (SS) in patients with non-functioning [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is part of the diagnostic protocol in pituitary adenoma patients. The goal of the present study is to present and analyse the MRI appearances of the sphenoid sinus (SS) in patients with non-functioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA). Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective case–control study conducted between January 2015 and December 2023 in a tertiary referral hospital. Forty NFPA patients were included in the study group, while the control group consisted of 30 age- and gender-matched cases. Results: The sellar type of SS pneumatization was the most frequently encountered pattern among both groups. The presence of the lateral recess of the SS, mucosal cysts, and sphenoethmoidal cells was similar in both patient groups. The proportion of patients with SS mucosal thickness greater than 3 mm was 42.5% in NFPA group and 3% in the control group, and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The space between the two optic nerves was significantly larger in the NFPA group as compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our study was able to establish a statistically significant association between the presence of NFPA and both the thickening of the SS mucosa and increased space between optic nerves. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology)
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21 pages, 862 KiB  
Article
Real-World Treatment Patterns and Survival Outcomes for Patients with Non-Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer in Sweden: A Nationwide Registry Analysis from the I-O Optimise Initiative
by Gudrun N. Oskarsdottir, Erik Lampa, Anders Berglund, Linda Rosengren, Maria Ulvestad, Miklos Boros, Melinda J. Daumont, Caroline Rault, Gabrielle Emanuel, Cátia Leal, Minouk J. Schoemaker and Gunnar Wagenius
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1655; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091655 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with ~40–50% of patients diagnosed with non-metastatic disease (stages IA–IIIC). The treatment landscape is evolving rapidly as immunotherapies and targeted therapy are introduced in the non-metastatic setting, creating a need to [...] Read more.
Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with ~40–50% of patients diagnosed with non-metastatic disease (stages IA–IIIC). The treatment landscape is evolving rapidly as immunotherapies and targeted therapy are introduced in the non-metastatic setting, creating a need to assess patient outcomes prior to their introduction. This real-world study using Swedish National Lung Cancer Registry data examined outcomes (overall survival (OS) and time to next treatment or death (TTNTD)) and treatment patterns for adults diagnosed with non-metastatic NSCLC. Baseline characteristics and OS from diagnosis were described for all patients; OS, treatment patterns, and TTNTD from treatment start were described for the treatment subgroup (patients diagnosed from 2014 onwards), stratified by disease stage and initial treatment. OS and TTNTD were described using the Kaplan–Meier estimator. The overall population (2008–2019) included 17,433 patients; the treatment subgroup included 5147 patients. Median OS (interquartile range) overall ranged from 83.3 (31.6–165.3) months (stage I patients) to 10.4 (4.3–24.2) months (stage IIIB patients). Among the treatment subgroup, median OS and TTNTD were longest among patients receiving surgery versus other anticancer treatments. These findings provide a baseline upon which to evaluate the epidemiology of non-metastatic NSCLC as newer treatments are introduced. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention)
18 pages, 2266 KiB  
Article
Evolution of Structure and Texture Formation in Thermomechanically Treated Ti-Zr-Nb Shape Memory Alloys
by Alexandra Baranova, Sergey Dubinskiy, Irina Vvedenskaya, Andrey Bazlov, Natalia Tabachkova, Vadim Sheremetyev, Tatyana Teplyakova, Oleg Strakhov and Sergey Prokoshkin
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3647; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093647 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Biomedical Ti-22Nb-6Zr, Ti-18Zr-15Nb, and Ti-41Zr-12Nb (at.%) shape memory alloys were subjected to cold rolling (CR) and subsequent post-deformation annealing (PDA). The evolutions of phase and structure states, crystallographic texture, and crystallographic limit of recovery strain were studied using EBSD, TEM, and XRD analyses. [...] Read more.
Biomedical Ti-22Nb-6Zr, Ti-18Zr-15Nb, and Ti-41Zr-12Nb (at.%) shape memory alloys were subjected to cold rolling (CR) and subsequent post-deformation annealing (PDA). The evolutions of phase and structure states, crystallographic texture, and crystallographic limit of recovery strain were studied using EBSD, TEM, and XRD analyses. The study found that CR (e = 1.5) and PDA at 800 °C for 30 min results in fine- and coarse-grained structures. Severe CR (e = 3.0) and PDA at 550 °C for 5 min results in a recrystallized, equiaxed, predominantly ultrafine-grained structure of the β-phase with a small amount of low-angle boundaries. Increasing the degree of CR from moderate (e = 0.3) to severe (e = 3.0) results in a favorable strong {111}β<110>β recrystallization texture. Alloys with low Zr content are more susceptible to this type of crystallographic texture formation during TMT, primarily due to a higher Nb content. The Ti-41Zr-12Nb alloy shows the highest crystallographic limit of recovery strain (εrmax ≈ 6%). The limit decreases to ≈5% (for Ti-18Zr-15Nb) and ≈3% (for Ti-22Nb-6Zr) when transitioning from high- to low-Zr alloys. The transition of Ti-Zr-Nb alloys from coarse-grained to ultrafine-grained structures of the β-phase and a decrease in grain size do not affect the crystallographic limit of recovery strain in the studied grain size ranges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alloys: Evolution of Microstructure and Texture)
18 pages, 3009 KiB  
Article
Impacts of Soil Properties on Species Diversity and Structure in Alternanthera philoxeroides-Invaded and Native Plant Communities
by Hao Wu, Yuxin Liu, Tiantian Zhang, Mingxia Xu and Benqiang Rao
Plants 2024, 13(9), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091196 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Soil properties can affect plant population dynamics and the coexistence of native and invasive plants, thus potentially affecting community structure and invasion trends. However, the different impacts of soil physicochemical properties on species diversity and structure in native and invaded plant communities remain [...] Read more.
Soil properties can affect plant population dynamics and the coexistence of native and invasive plants, thus potentially affecting community structure and invasion trends. However, the different impacts of soil physicochemical properties on species diversity and structure in native and invaded plant communities remain unclear. In this study, we established a total of 30 Alternanthera philoxeroides-invaded plots and 30 control plots in an area at the geographical boundary between North and South China. We compared the differences in species composition between the invaded and native plant communities, and we then used the methods of regression analysis, redundancy analysis (RDA), and canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) to examine the impacts of soil physicochemical properties on four α-diversity indices and the species distribution of these two types of communities. We found that A. philoxeroides invasion increased the difference between the importance values of dominant plant species, and the invasion coverage had a negative relationship with the soil-available potassium (R2 = 0.135; p = 0.046) and Patrick richness index (R2 = 0.322; p < 0.001). In the native communities, the species diversity was determined with soil chemical properties, the Patrick richness index, the Simpson dominance index, and the Shannon–Wiener diversity index, which all decreased with the increase in soil pH value, available potassium, organic matter, and ammonium nitrogen. However, in the invaded communities, the species diversity was determined by soil physical properties; the Pielou evenness index increased with increasing non-capillary porosity but decreased with increasing capillary porosity. The determinants of species distribution in the native communities were soil porosity and nitrate nitrogen, while the determinants in the invaded communities were soil bulk density and available potassium. In addition, compared with the native communities, the clustering degree of species distribution in the invaded communities intensified. Our study indicates that species diversity and distribution have significant heterogeneous responses to soil physicochemical properties between A. philoxeroides-invaded and native plant communities. Thus, we need to intensify the monitoring of soil properties in invaded habitats and conduct biotic replacement strategies based on the heterogeneous responses of native and invaded communities to effectively prevent the biotic homogenization that is caused by plant invasions under environmental changes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interactions within Invasive Ecosystems)
18 pages, 818 KiB  
Article
Burnout and Quality of Work Life among Physicians during Internships in Public Hospitals in Thailand
by Vithawat Surawattanasakul, Wuttipat Kiratipaisarl and Penprapa Siviroj
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050361 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Physicians are exposed to occupational stress and burnout, which have been identified as contributing to a decrease in the quality of work life (QWL). Thailand’s medical education program, consisting of a six-year curriculum with government tuition support followed by three years of internships, [...] Read more.
Physicians are exposed to occupational stress and burnout, which have been identified as contributing to a decrease in the quality of work life (QWL). Thailand’s medical education program, consisting of a six-year curriculum with government tuition support followed by three years of internships, provides the context for this investigation. This study aimed to assess the QWL among intern physicians (IPs) in public hospitals and investigated the association between burnout and QWL. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 241 IPs in public hospitals in Thailand utilizing an online self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire included a Thai version of a 25-item QWL scale and the Maslach Burnout Inventory—Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel. Data analysis was performed using multivariable logistic regression. A significant proportion of IPs experienced low to moderate QWL (72.6%), with low levels of home–work interface (39.4%) and employee engagement (38.6%). In the exploratory model, after adjusting for sex and age, IPs with high depersonalization and low personal accomplishment demonstrated an association with low QWL (adjusted OR, aOR 2.08, 95% CI 1.01 to 4.31; aOR 2.74, 95% CI 1.40 to 5.39). Healthcare organizations should regularly assess intern physicians’ QWL and burnout, prioritizing interventions; ensure reasonable work hours, schedule adjustments, and open communication; and develop support systems for cost-effective interventions. Further research on the dynamic relationship between burnout and QWL is crucial for targeted and culturally sensitive interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress, Anxiety, and Depression among Healthcare Workers)
25 pages, 1132 KiB  
Article
Synergising an Advanced Optimisation Technique with Deep Learning: A Novel Method in Fault Warning Systems
by Jia Tian, Xingqin Zhang, Shuangqing Zheng, Zhiyong Liu and Changshu Zhan
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1301; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091301 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the realm of automated industry and smart production, the deployment of fault warning systems is crucial for ensuring equipment reliability and enhancing operational efficiency. Although there are a multitude of existing methodologies for fault warning, the proficiency of these systems in processing [...] Read more.
In the realm of automated industry and smart production, the deployment of fault warning systems is crucial for ensuring equipment reliability and enhancing operational efficiency. Although there are a multitude of existing methodologies for fault warning, the proficiency of these systems in processing and analysing data is increasingly challenged by the progression of industrial apparatus and the escalating magnitude and intricacy of the data involved. To address these challenges, this research outlines an innovative fault warning methodology that combines a bi-directional long short-term memory (Bi-LSTM) network with an enhanced hunter–prey optimisation (EHPO) algorithm. The Bi-LSTM network is strategically utilised to outline complex temporal patterns in machinery operational data, while the EHPO algorithm is employed to meticulously fine-tune the hyperparameters of the Bi-LSTM, aiming to enhance the accuracy and generalisability of fault warning. The EHPO algorithm, building upon the foundational hunter–prey optimisation (HPO) framework, introduces an advanced population initialisation process, integrates a range of strategic exploration methodologies, and strengthens its search paradigms through the incorporation of the differential evolution (DE) algorithm. This comprehensive enhancement aims to boost the global search efficiency and accelerate the convergence speed of the algorithm. Empirical analyses, conducted using datasets from real-world industrial scenarios, have validated the improved warning performance of this proposed methodology against some benchmark techniques, as evidenced by superior metrics such as root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE), albeit with a slight increase in computational resource requirements. This study not only proposes a novel paradigm for fault warning within complex industrial frameworks but also contributes to the discourse on hyperparameter optimisation within the field of machine learning algorithms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Intelligence and Machine Learning with Applications)
22 pages, 1605 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Whale Optimization Algorithm–DBiLSTM for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) Trajectory Prediction
by Shufang Guo, Jing Zhang and Tianchi Zhang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3646; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093646 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
AUVs are autonomous underwater robots equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems. Due to the complexity and uncertainty of the marine environment, AUVs are susceptible to the effects of the marine environment and may experience communication delays or even accidents. Based on the [...] Read more.
AUVs are autonomous underwater robots equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems. Due to the complexity and uncertainty of the marine environment, AUVs are susceptible to the effects of the marine environment and may experience communication delays or even accidents. Based on the aforementioned issues, this paper proposes a prediction method for lost AUVs based on an adaptive optimization depth BiLSTM (AWOA-DBiLSTM) neural network model. To enhance prediction accuracy, AWOA-DBiLSTM employs a double BiLSTM to extract AUV features from positional information and physical attitude. Additionally, AWOA-DBiLSTM utilizes a gating mechanism to filter and reset physical attitude feature information to obtain features associated with positional information. After undergoing filtering operations, the physical attitude information of the AUV is fused with the position information to achieve trajectory prediction. For the first time, the differentiation and stratified extraction of AUV data features are presented in this paper. The experimental results demonstrate that the model achieves significant improvements in prediction accuracy and generalization, and the present study is of great significance for application in the task of predicting the trajectories of lost AUVs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Science and Engineering)
19 pages, 14232 KiB  
Article
Using Deep Learning Approaches to Quantify Landscape Preference of the Chinese Grand Canal: An Empirical Case Study of the Yangzhou Ancient Canal
by Yiwen Li and Bing Qiu
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3602; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093602 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Landscape preference emerges from the dynamic interaction between individuals and their environment and plays a pivotal role in the preservation and enhancement of the Chinese Grand Canal’s scenery. As a vast linear heritage, employing conventional methods for analyzing landscape preferences can be resource-intensive [...] Read more.
Landscape preference emerges from the dynamic interaction between individuals and their environment and plays a pivotal role in the preservation and enhancement of the Chinese Grand Canal’s scenery. As a vast linear heritage, employing conventional methods for analyzing landscape preferences can be resource-intensive in terms of both time and labor. Amid the rapid advancement of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI), a cognitive framework for understanding the Chinese Grand Canal’s landscape preferences has been developed, encompassing two primary aspects: the characteristic features of landscape preference and its spatial organization. Geotagged photographs from tourism media platforms focused on the Yangzhou Ancient Canal were utilized, and the EasyDL deep learning platform was employed to devise a model. This model assesses current landscape preferences through an analysis of photographic content, element composition patterns, and geospatial distribution, integrating social network and point density analyses. Our findings reveal that the fusion of Yangzhou Ancient Canal and classical gardens creates a sought-after ‘Canal and Watercraft Remains’ landscape. Tourists’ preferences for different landscape types are reflected in the way the elements are combined in the photographs. Overall, landscape preferences are dense in the north and sparse in the south. Differences in tourists’ perceptions of the value of and preferences for heritage sites lead to significant variations in tourist arrivals at different sites. This approach demonstrates efficiency and scalability in evaluating the Chinese Grand Canal landscape, offering valuable insights for its strategic planning and conservation efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural Heritage Conservation and Sustainable Development)
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19 pages, 1725 KiB  
Essay
A Numerical Simulation Study on the Out-of-Plane Performance of Timber Framework–Brick Wall Systems in Traditional Residential Buildings of Northern China
by Ning Dai, Lanhao Cui, Yingpei Li, Liwei Fan and Jiakun Chen
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051224 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
To improve the out-of-plane collaborative performance of timber frames and walls, a metal connector is proposed and designed. A finite element model of the wall is established, and the composite block damage criteria and surface contact behavior are validated. Additionally, one group without [...] Read more.
To improve the out-of-plane collaborative performance of timber frames and walls, a metal connector is proposed and designed. A finite element model of the wall is established, and the composite block damage criteria and surface contact behavior are validated. Additionally, one group without metal connectors and three groups with different numbers of metal connectors placed at various positions in traditional residential wall models are established. Using static loading simulation, the influence of different numbers of metal connectors on the out-of-plane damage patterns, deformation characteristics, and shear force distribution is analyzed. The study reveals that top metal connectors significantly reduce the out-of-plane displacement of the top wall by up to 84.6%. Metal connectors have a significant impact on the deformation capacity of brick walls, with a maximum enhancement of 65.3%. The metal connectors in the middle and lower parts transfer the wall loads to the columns, increasing the horizontal shear at the column head by approximately 7%. The connectors in the middle and lower parts effectively improve the collaborative performance of brick walls and wooden frames. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)

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