The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
16 pages, 979 KiB  
Review
The Role of Arthroscopy in Contemporary Glenoid Fossa Fracture Fixation
by Byron Chalidis, Polychronis P. Papadopoulos, Pericles Papadopoulos and Charalampos Pitsilos
Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 908; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090908 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Glenoid fossa fractures are rare injuries accounting for 10 to 29% of all intra-articular scapula fractures. They are usually the result of high-energy trauma, and concomitant injuries are not uncommon. Patients with glenoid fractures are admitted with shoulder pain and restricted range of [...] Read more.
Glenoid fossa fractures are rare injuries accounting for 10 to 29% of all intra-articular scapula fractures. They are usually the result of high-energy trauma, and concomitant injuries are not uncommon. Patients with glenoid fractures are admitted with shoulder pain and restricted range of motion. Although shoulder plain radiographs could establish the diagnosis, a computed tomography scan is necessary to adequately define the fracture pattern and characteristics. The most commonly used classification system is that of Ideberg (modified by Goss), which includes five glenoid fossa fracture types according to the location, extension, and complexity of the lesion. Articular surface displacement and step-off are the most important factors that should be taken under consideration when deciding for conservative or surgical management. Operative treatment includes open reduction and internal fixation through a posterior or anterior approach depending on fracture morphology and displacement. However, open surgical techniques are related to extensive soft-tissue disruption, risk of neurovascular injury, and inadequate exposure of the entire glenoid cavity. Introduction of arthroscopy could facilitate better visualization of the glenoid articular surface and improved fracture reduction. However, it is a technically demanding procedure with many challenges and pitfalls. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence regarding the treatment of glenoid fossa fractures and present the beneficial effect of arthroscopy in improving the quality of fracture fixation and overall functional outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Arthroscopy Techniques in Diagnosis and Treatment)
15 pages, 4448 KiB  
Article
Magnetorheological Fluid-Based Haptic Feedback Damper
by Pei Kang, Sijia Liu and Tao Zeng
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3697; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093697 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Damping involves the various frictional and other obstructive effects that attenuate free vibration. For a long time, people have mainly used it to make various dampers to reduce mechanical vibration and consume kinetic energy. It is widely used in fields such as aerospace, [...] Read more.
Damping involves the various frictional and other obstructive effects that attenuate free vibration. For a long time, people have mainly used it to make various dampers to reduce mechanical vibration and consume kinetic energy. It is widely used in fields such as aerospace, automotive, and consumer electronics. These dampers mainly act on mechanical structures. In recent years, with the rapid development of novel human–machine interaction methods and force/tactile feedback technology, the damper has begun to act on people, such as when a person interacts with a robot and their force is applied to a structure with damping. This type of damper requires variable damping, and the amount of variation is controlled by the magnitude of human action. This study used magnetorheological fluid (MRF) instead of traditional damping fluids, such as silicone oil, sesame oil, and mechanical oil. Magnetorheological fluid is a controllable fluid with magnetorheological effects, and its viscosity (hardness) can be changed by changing the nearby magnetic field. This study took the design of variable damping keyboard buttons with haptic feedback as an example to study the electromagnetic and dynamic models of variable dampers based on magnetorheological fluids. The experimental setup was designed and used to verify the haptic effectiveness of the scheme, which can be applied to the development of other haptic dampers that require variable damping. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Physics General)
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23 pages, 3539 KiB  
Article
Implications of the Propagation Method for the Phytochemistry of Nepeta cataria L. throughout a Growing Season
by Erik Nunes Gomes, Bo Yuan, Harna K. Patel, Anthony Lockhart, Christian A. Wyenandt, Qingli Wu and James E. Simon
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 2001; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29092001 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Catnip (Nepeta cataria L.) plants produce a wide array of specialized metabolites with multiple applications for human health. The productivity of such metabolites, including nepetalactones, and natural insect repellents is influenced by the conditions under which the plants are cultivated. In this [...] Read more.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria L.) plants produce a wide array of specialized metabolites with multiple applications for human health. The productivity of such metabolites, including nepetalactones, and natural insect repellents is influenced by the conditions under which the plants are cultivated. In this study, we assessed how field-grown catnip plants, transplanted after being propagated via either single-node stem cuttings or seeds, varied regarding their phytochemical composition throughout a growing season in two distinct environmental conditions (Pittstown and Upper Deerfield) in the state of New Jersey, United States. Iridoid terpenes were quantified in plant tissues via ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QqQ-MS), and phenolic compounds (phenolic acids and flavonoids) were analyzed via UHPLC with diode-array detection (UHPLC-DAD). The highest contents of total nepetalactones in Pittstown were found at 6 weeks after transplanting (WAT) for both seedlings and cuttings (1305.4 and 1223.3 mg/100 g, respectively), while in Upper Deerfield, the highest contents for both propagules were at 11 WAT (1247.7 and 997.1 mg/100 g, respectively) for seed-propagated and stem cuttings). The highest concentration of nepetalactones was associated with floral-bud to partial-flowering stages. Because plants in Pittstown accumulated considerably more biomass than plants grown in Upper Deerfield, the difference in nepetalactone production per plant was striking, with peak productivity reaching only 598.9 mg per plant in Upper Deerfield and 1833.1 mg per plant in Pittstown. Phenolic acids accumulated in higher contents towards the end of the season in both locations, after a period of low precipitation, and flavone glycosides had similar accumulation patterns to nepetalactones. In both locations, rooted stem cuttings reached their maximum nepetalactone productivity, on average, four weeks later than seed-propagated plants, suggesting that seedlings have, overall, better agronomic performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activity of Plant Compounds and Extract, 3rd Edition)
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17 pages, 7424 KiB  
Article
Automatic Estimation of the Interference Subspace Dimension Threshold in the Subspace Projection Algorithms of Magnetoencephalography Based on Evoked State Data
by Ruochen Zhao, Ruonan Wang, Yang Gao and Xiaolin Ning
Bioengineering 2024, 11(5), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11050428 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
A class of algorithms based on subspace projection is widely used in the denoising of magnetoencephalography (MEG) signals. Setting the dimension of the interference (external) subspace matrix of these algorithms is the key to balancing the denoising effect and the degree of signal [...] Read more.
A class of algorithms based on subspace projection is widely used in the denoising of magnetoencephalography (MEG) signals. Setting the dimension of the interference (external) subspace matrix of these algorithms is the key to balancing the denoising effect and the degree of signal distortion. However, most current methods for estimating the dimension threshold rely on experience, such as observing the signal waveforms and spectrum, which may render the results too subjective and lacking in quantitative accuracy. Therefore, this study proposes a method to automatically estimate a suitable threshold. Time–frequency transformations are performed on the evoked state data to obtain the neural signal of interest and the noise signal in a specific time–frequency band, which are then used to construct the objective function describing the degree of noise suppression and signal distortion. The optimal value of the threshold in the selected range is obtained using the weighted-sum method. Our method was tested on two classical subspace projection algorithms using simulation and two sensory stimulation experiments. The thresholds estimated by the proposed method enabled the algorithms to achieve the best waveform recovery and source location error. Therefore, the threshold selected in this method enables subspace projection algorithms to achieve the best balance between noise removal and neural signal preservation in subsequent MEG analyses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Bioengineering: Biosignal Processing)
20 pages, 2166 KiB  
Article
Fertilising Maize with Bio-Based Mineral Fertilisers Gives Similar Growth to Conventional Fertilisers and Does Not Alter Soil Microbiome
by Marcia Barquero, Cinta Cazador, Noemí Ortiz-Liébana, Maurizio Zotti, Javier Brañas and Fernando González-Andrés
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050916 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The production of mineral fertilisers relies heavily on mineral deposits that are becoming depleted or is based on processes that are highly energy demanding. In this context, and in line with the circular economy and the European Green Deal, the recovery of nitrogen [...] Read more.
The production of mineral fertilisers relies heavily on mineral deposits that are becoming depleted or is based on processes that are highly energy demanding. In this context, and in line with the circular economy and the European Green Deal, the recovery of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) from organic wastes using chemical technologies is an important strategy to produce secondary raw materials for incorporation into mineral fertilisers, partially replacing the traditional sources of N, P, and K. However, there are very few studies on the agronomic and environmental effects of such substitution. The aim of this work was to evaluate plant growth under microcosm conditions and the effect on the soil microbiome of mineral fertilisers in which part of the N, P, or K content comes from bio-based materials (BBMFs), namely ash, struvite, and a patented chemical process. The crop was maize, and a metataxonomic approach was used to assess the effect on the soil microbiome. The BBMF treatments were compared with a control treated with a conventional mineral fertiliser. The conventional fertiliser performed significantly better than the bio-based fertilisers in terms of maize biomass production at the first sampling point 60 days after sowing (DAS), but at the last sampling point, 90 DAS, the BBMFs showed comparable or even better biomass production than the conventional one. This suggests that BBMFs may have a slightly slower nutrient release rate. The use of fertiliser, whether conventional or BBMF, resulted in a significant increase in microbiome biodiversity (Shannon index), while it did not affect species richness. Interestingly, the use of fertilisers modulated the composition of the bacterial community, increasing the abundance of beneficial bacterial taxa considered to be plant-growth-promoting bacteria, without significant differences between the conventional mineral fertilisers and the BBMFs. The predominance of PGPRs in the rhizosphere of crops when BBMFs are used could be part of the reason why BBMFs perform similarly or even better than conventional fertilisers, even if the rate of nutrient release is slower. This hypothesis will be tested in future field trials. Thus, BBMFs are an interesting option to make the food chain more sustainable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
17 pages, 644 KiB  
Article
Impacts of the National Nutrition Plan 2017–2030 on Listed Agrifood Enterprises: A Financial Statement Perspective
by Jianxiong Chen, Chung-Cheng Yang and Yu Lin
Agriculture 2024, 14(5), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14050677 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Chinese government promulgated the National Nutrition Plan 2017–2030 to provide scientific guidance for agrifood consumption and enhance nutrition intake. We categorized the sample into pre-2018 and post-2018 periods. By evaluating the effects of the National Nutrition Plan 2017–2030 through economic theory and [...] Read more.
The Chinese government promulgated the National Nutrition Plan 2017–2030 to provide scientific guidance for agrifood consumption and enhance nutrition intake. We categorized the sample into pre-2018 and post-2018 periods. By evaluating the effects of the National Nutrition Plan 2017–2030 through economic theory and a translog revenue function model based on financial statement data from 2015 to 2022, our findings indicate that the National Nutrition Plan 2017–2030 has increased the overall agrifood sales of listed agrifood enterprises, but the increase in agrifood sales produced by large listed agrifood enterprises has been slight. Finally, we offer policy recommendations for regulatory authorities and develop strategies for agrifood firms to encourage local food procurement. This study also contributes to our understanding of China’s agrifood industry dynamics and underscores the significance of the National Nutrition Plan 2017–2030 in enhancing nutritional intake and fostering sustainable growth in China’s agriculture industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Markets and Agrifood Supply Chains)
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16 pages, 603 KiB  
Article
Delayed Sowing Can Improve Potassium Utilization Efficiency and Grain Potassium Concentration in Winter Wheat
by Lijun Yin, Yaxin Liao and Xiao Mou
Agriculture 2024, 14(5), 678; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14050678 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Economic consumption and environmental impacts due to potassium (K) inputs in agriculture are gaining increasing attention. It is urgent to improve K use efficiency (KUE) for agricultural development. Delayed sowing has been shown to maintain grain yield in winter wheat. Still, there needs [...] Read more.
Economic consumption and environmental impacts due to potassium (K) inputs in agriculture are gaining increasing attention. It is urgent to improve K use efficiency (KUE) for agricultural development. Delayed sowing has been shown to maintain grain yield in winter wheat. Still, there needs to be more information regarding the effect of sowing date on crop K status evaluated by the K nutrition index (KNI), KUE, K uptake efficiency (UPE), K utilization efficiency (UTE), and grain K concentration (GKC). Here, we assessed Shannong23 and Tainong18 winter wheat cultivars with three sowing date treatments composed of 26 September (early sowing), 8 October (normal sowing), and 22 October (late sowing) in the 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 growing seasons. The influences of sowing date on the KNI, tillering, grain yield formation, KUE, UPE, UTE, K transport, and GKC were examined. Our study indicated that late sowing in winter wheat was an almost optimal K nutritional situation, whereas early and normal sowing were under situations of excess K. As sowing was delayed, aboveground K uptake (AGK), UPE, and spike number per unit area decreased; UTE and grain number per spike increased; and grain yield and KUE were unchanged. A positive correlation between KNI and UPE and spike number per unit area and a negative correlation between KNI and UTE and grain number per spike were found, whereas no significant correlation between KNI and KUE was observed. Late sowing promoted K transport from pre-anthesis accumulation in vegetative organs to grain, resulting in a higher GKC, which could lead to high grain quality and K recovery. Therefore, late sowing winter wheat can use K more efficiently and increase GKC, implying that delayed sowing can reduce K input, favoring sustainable agriculture development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Technologies for Achieving High-Yield Wheat)
26 pages, 7931 KiB  
Article
High-Spatial-Resolution Benchtop X-ray Fluorescence Imaging through Bragg-Diffraction-Based Focusing with Bent Mosaic Graphite Crystals: A Simulation Study
by Kunal Kumar, Melanie Fachet and Christoph Hoeschen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4733; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094733 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
X-ray fluorescence imaging (XFI) can localize diagnostic or theranostic entities utilizing nanoparticle (NP)-based probes at high resolution in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo. However, small-animal benchtop XFI systems demonstrating high spatial resolution (variable from sub-millimeter to millimeter range) in vivo are still [...] Read more.
X-ray fluorescence imaging (XFI) can localize diagnostic or theranostic entities utilizing nanoparticle (NP)-based probes at high resolution in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo. However, small-animal benchtop XFI systems demonstrating high spatial resolution (variable from sub-millimeter to millimeter range) in vivo are still limited to lighter elements (i.e., atomic number Z45). This study investigates the feasibility of focusing hard X-rays from solid-target tubes using ellipsoidal lens systems composed of mosaic graphite crystals with the aim of enabling high-resolution in vivo XFI applications with mid-Z (42Z64) elements. Monte Carlo simulations are performed to characterize the proposed focusing-optics concept and provide quantitative predictions of the XFI sensitivity, in silico tumor-bearing mice models loaded with palladium (Pd) and barium (Ba) NPs. Based on simulation results, the minimum detectable total mass of PdNPs per scan position is expected to be on the order of a few hundred nanograms under in vivo conform conditions. PdNP masses as low as 150 ng to 50 ng could be detectable with a resolution of 600 μm when imaging abdominal tumor lesions across a range of low-dose (0.8 μGy) to high-dose (8 μGy) exposure scenarios. The proposed focusing-optics concept presents a potential step toward realizing XFI with conventional X-ray tubes for high-resolution applications involving interesting NP formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research of Biomedical X-ray Fluorescence Imaging (XFI))
12 pages, 1800 KiB  
Article
Study on the Influence of Circulating Water Bypass on the Thermal and Anti-Freezing Characteristics of High-Level Wet Cooling Tower
by Zhonghua Wang, Zenggang Yue, Wei Wang, Chenghui Ma, Xiaoguang Li, Changmin Guo and Yuanbin Zhao
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2073; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092073 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
When heating units are operated in winter, the extreme conditions, such as deep peak regulation and large extraction, can easily lead to a low unit load and severe icing in the wet cooling tower, which threatens the safe operation of the unit. Therefore, [...] Read more.
When heating units are operated in winter, the extreme conditions, such as deep peak regulation and large extraction, can easily lead to a low unit load and severe icing in the wet cooling tower, which threatens the safe operation of the unit. Therefore, it is necessary to study the anti-freezing characteristics of the wet cooling tower. In this paper, a three-dimensional numerical model of a high-level, natural draft wet cooling tower is developed based on the constant heat load method. The influence of withdrawing a certain percentage of circulating water into the bypass on the cooling performance and anti-freezing characteristics of the high-level, natural draft wet cooling tower is investigated. The results show that as the percentage of circulating water bypass extraction increases, the temperature drop of circulating water in the tower continues to increase, but the lowest and the average water temperatures at the bottom of the packing continue to decrease. At the same time, the amount of circulating water entering the tower decreases, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the tower under the same environmental conditions decreases, and the pumping force of the cooling tower decreases. If the circulating water bypass extraction percentage is less than 10%, it can prevent the circulating water from freezing at the bottom of the packing and, at the same time, try to reduce the temperature of the circulating water entering the condenser to ensure the efficiency of the unit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section J1: Heat and Mass Transfer)
15 pages, 2605 KiB  
Case Report
Ovarian Fibrothecoma in a Mare—Case Report
by Raimonda Tamulionytė-Skėrė, Nomeda Juodžiukynienė, Renata Gruodytė, Paulina Rimkutė, Iveta Duliebaitė and Akvilė Savickytė
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1307; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091307 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Ovarian tumors in mares are uncommon in comparison to other neoplasms and are classified into three categories: gonadal stromal tumors, coelomic epithelium surface tumors, and germinal cell tumors. Some ovarian neoplasms histologically show a mixture of multiple cell types in the same tumor, [...] Read more.
Ovarian tumors in mares are uncommon in comparison to other neoplasms and are classified into three categories: gonadal stromal tumors, coelomic epithelium surface tumors, and germinal cell tumors. Some ovarian neoplasms histologically show a mixture of multiple cell types in the same tumor, such as fibrothecoma; therefore, the differentiation between fibroma and thecoma is often difficult. According to the World Health Organization, fibrothecomas are classified as sex-cord stromal tumors (pure stromal tumors). Neoplasms such as fibrothecoma present with limited morphological, clinical, ultrasonographic, and endocrine profile characteristics. To diagnose this type of tumor, a broad clinical examination is needed, but histopathology remains the most accurate. Herein, we report a case of incidentally found ovarian fibrothecoma during a diagnostic laparotomy in a 6-year-old Dutch Warmblood (KWPN) mare who presented to the clinic with colic symptoms. After a unilateral ovariectomy, the altered right ovary was diagnosed as fibrothecoma based on histopathological features. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
25 pages, 31657 KiB  
Article
Every Thing Can Be a Hero! Narrative Visualization of Person, Object, and Other Biographies
by Jakob Kusnick, Eva Mayr, Kasra Seirafi, Samuel Beck, Johannes Liem and Florian Windhager
Informatics 2024, 11(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11020026 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Knowledge communication in cultural heritage and digital humanities currently faces two challenges, which this paper addresses: On the one hand, data-driven storytelling in these fields has mainly focused on human protagonists, while other essential entities (such as artworks and artifacts, institutions, or places) [...] Read more.
Knowledge communication in cultural heritage and digital humanities currently faces two challenges, which this paper addresses: On the one hand, data-driven storytelling in these fields has mainly focused on human protagonists, while other essential entities (such as artworks and artifacts, institutions, or places) have been neglected. On the other hand, storytelling tools rarely support the larger chains of data practices, which are required to generate and shape the data and visualizations needed for such stories. This paper introduces the InTaVia platform, which has been developed to bridge these gaps. It supports the practices of data retrieval, creation, curation, analysis, and communication with coherent visualization support for multiple types of entities. We illustrate the added value of this open platform for storytelling with four case studies, focusing on (a) the life of Albrecht Dürer (person biography), (b) the Saliera salt cellar by Benvenuto Cellini (object biography), (c) the artist community of Lake Tuusula (group biography), and (d) the history of the Hofburg building complex in Vienna (place biography). Numerous suggestions for future research arise from this undertaking. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Humanities and Visualization)
15 pages, 784 KiB  
Article
Institutional Surgical Setting and Volume Effects of Certified Arthroplasty Centers in Germany: Evaluation of the Quality of Care in a 5-Year Comparison
by Katrin Osmanski-Zenk, Annett Klinder, Andreas Pingsmann, Christoph H. Lohmann, Hermann Josef Bail, Bernd Kladny and Wolfram Mittelmeier
Healthcare 2024, 12(9), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12090904 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
To improve arthroplasty care quality, the EndoCert initiative focuses on structural, processual, and surgeon-related quality assurance. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a surgeon’s case load in certified centers on quality of care, distinguished by different types of [...] Read more.
To improve arthroplasty care quality, the EndoCert initiative focuses on structural, processual, and surgeon-related quality assurance. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a surgeon’s case load in certified centers on quality of care, distinguished by different types of surgeons. Data from the annual reports of EndoCert certified centers for the years 2017 to 2021 were analyzed. The study revealed reduced numbers of cases, while the number of surgeons remained constant. Since 2020, the decrease in the average case load per surgeons has become more pronounced. There were also differences between senior (sECrs) and EndoCert-registered surgeons (ECrs). Before the 2020 pandemic, over half of surgeons exceeded minimum annual case requirements, while, afterwards, this number declined, especially for the ECrs. Affiliated surgeons, who are also sECrs or ECrs, performed predominantly lower numbers of arthroplasties. However, a higher percentage of affiliated surgeons in a center correlated with faster surgeries and lower mortality rates. High numbers of arthroplasties per center or surgeon were not necessarily associated with better quality indicators, especially in the knee. While the comprehensive quality standards may offset volume effects, EndoCert should reconsider minimum volume regulations based on surgeon, but also on each joint. Full article
8 pages, 1200 KiB  
Case Report
Embolization of Patent Foramen Ovale Closure Device—Rare Complication and Unique Management Approach
by Mila Kovacevic, Marko Atanaskovic, Katarina Obradovic, Mirko Todic, Branislav Crnomarkovic, Marija Bjelobrk, Snezana Bjelic, Milenko Cankovic, Aleksandra Milovancev and Ilija Srdanovic
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050717 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Percutaneous closure of the patent foramen ovale (PFO) is generally regarded as a safe and effective procedure, indicated in patients with a prior PFO-associated stroke. While it is highly safe, rarely, it could be accompanied by a migration of the device, mainly caused [...] Read more.
Percutaneous closure of the patent foramen ovale (PFO) is generally regarded as a safe and effective procedure, indicated in patients with a prior PFO-associated stroke. While it is highly safe, rarely, it could be accompanied by a migration of the device, mainly caused by the interplay of a specific PFO morphology and inappropriate device sizing. Herein, we outline a seldom-observed complication of an unintentional detachment of the PFO closure device during implantation, leading to its migration into the abdominal aorta, and a unique management approach. Due to the inability to recapture the occluder with a snare, which is considered to be a mainstay of endovascular retrieval methods, two coronary guidewires were maneuvered through the mesh of the occluder and then captured with a snare proximally to the occluder. This innovative dual-wire–snare system was carefully pulled to the common femoral artery, a position deemed suitable for surgical extraction via arteriotomy, which was achieved successfully. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
17 pages, 2551 KiB  
Article
Monitoring the State of the Operator of the Ergatic System in UAV Control Tasks
by Yaroslav Turovsky, Aleksandr Surovtsev, Viktor Alekseev and Larisa Rybak
Machines 2024, 12(5), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12050291 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
An important aspect of the application of unmanned systems is the reliability and safety of controlling these devices. An innovative approach has been proposed to improve the efficiency of the pilot operator and the reliability of the automated control system. It includes the [...] Read more.
An important aspect of the application of unmanned systems is the reliability and safety of controlling these devices. An innovative approach has been proposed to improve the efficiency of the pilot operator and the reliability of the automated control system. It includes the development of an algorithm for determining the pilot’s condition based on heart rate analysis. This algorithm helps to assess the condition of the pilot and his ability to control the drone. Another important element of the proposed approach is the algorithm for selecting the control mode of the automated control system for unmanned aerial vehicles, which takes into account information about the functional state of the pilot operator. This algorithm allows the system to automatically switch between different operating modes depending on the condition of the pilot, ensuring optimal control and minimizing the risks of human error. An integrated approach to improving the reliability of the unmanned aerial vehicle control system allows not only improving the work of the pilot operator, but also ensuring the safer and more efficient operation of automated systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimization, Control and Design of Parallel Robots)
28 pages, 1616 KiB  
Article
Exogenous, Endogenous, and Peripheral Actors: A Situational Analysis of Stakeholder Inclusion within Transboundary Water Governance
by Hannah Whitley
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3647; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093647 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Transboundary water governance involves collaborative decision-making across geopolitical boundaries to manage shared water resources sustainably. While this approach integrates public, private, and community efforts, little scrutiny has been directed toward the involvement of non-institutionally affiliated stakeholders. This study critically examines stakeholder participation in [...] Read more.
Transboundary water governance involves collaborative decision-making across geopolitical boundaries to manage shared water resources sustainably. While this approach integrates public, private, and community efforts, little scrutiny has been directed toward the involvement of non-institutionally affiliated stakeholders. This study critically examines stakeholder participation in Upper Klamath Basin water governance by investigating how deficiencies in stakeholder inclusion impede transboundary water management processes by favoring institutionally affiliated actors. Findings reveal the differential influence of “endogenous” (directly involved), “exogenous” (indirectly involved), and “peripheral” (limited engagement and influence) actors. While endogenous and exogenous actors have formal or informal ties to institutions, peripheral actors lack institutional affiliation(s), making it difficult for them to participate in and ultimately influence water governance decision-making processes. Their limited access to financial, natural, and social capital further restricts their engagement with governance efforts. This imbalance underscores challenges to equity and inclusion in transboundary water governance processes. Addressing the exclusion of peripheral actors from transboundary water governance requires that governance institutions prioritize equity and inclusivity, fostering transparency, incentivizing inclusive practices, and comparing engagement processes to enhance effectiveness and equity in transboundary water management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transdisciplinary Perspectives on Environment and Communication)
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18 pages, 887 KiB  
Article
QbD Approach-Based Preparation and Optimization of Hydrophobic Ion-Pairing Complex of Lysozyme with Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate to Enhance Stability in Lipid-Based Carriers
by Alharith A. A. Hassan, Tamás Sovány, Krisztián Pamlényi, Martin Deák, Viktória Hornok, Edit Csapó, Géza Regdon, Jr., Ildikó Csóka and Katalin Kristó
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(5), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16050589 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Hydrophobic ion pairing (HIP) complexation was found to be an efficient approach in modulating the release and enhancing the stability and encapsulation of hydrophilic macromolecules such as proteins in hydrophobic nano/microcarriers. The present work strives to develop and optimize the preparation of the [...] Read more.
Hydrophobic ion pairing (HIP) complexation was found to be an efficient approach in modulating the release and enhancing the stability and encapsulation of hydrophilic macromolecules such as proteins in hydrophobic nano/microcarriers. The present work strives to develop and optimize the preparation of the HIP complex of the antimicrobial enzyme lysozyme (LYZ) with the ion-pairing agent (IPA) sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) relying on the quality-by-design (QbD) approach. The quality target product profile (QTPP) includes the achievement of maximal lipophilicity in a reversible manner to enable the maintenance of biological activity. The related critical quality attributes (CQAs) were defined as complexation efficacy, complex stability, enzyme recovery and activity. Three risk assessment (RA) tools were used to identify and rank the critical process parameters (CPPs) and critical material attributes (CMAs). From this assessment, the pH of the medium, LYZ:SDS molar ratio and drying conditions were determined as high-risk factors that need to be investigated. To the best of our knowledge, for the first time, electrostatic titration was used as a smart approach to determine the optimum molar ratio at different pH values. Based on the predefined CQAs, pH 8 with an LYZ/SDS molar ratio of 1:8 was found to be the optimal condition for complexation efficiency and recovery (%) of a biologically active enzyme. A cost-effective drying process based on a ventilated oven was developed, which resulted in complex qualities comparable to those obtained by the commonly used freeze-drying method. In a nutshell, the optimum conditions for the preparation of the LYZ/SDS HIP complex were efficiently facilitated by the rational application of QbD principles and the utilization of efficient electrostatic titration and ventilated oven-drying methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Delivering Protein and Peptide Therapeutics, 2nd Edition)
17 pages, 972 KiB  
Article
Study on Hydrocarbon Fuel Ignition Characterization Based on Optimized BP Neural Network
by Zhihan Chen, Lulin Wei, Hongan Ma, Yang Liu, Meng Yue and Junrui Shi
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2072; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092072 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The investigation of the ignition delay of hydrocarbon fuel is highly valuable for enhancing combustion efficiency, optimizing fuel thermal efficiency, and mitigating pollutant emissions. This paper has developed a BP-MRPSO neural network model for studying hydrocarbon fuel ignition and clarified the novelty of [...] Read more.
The investigation of the ignition delay of hydrocarbon fuel is highly valuable for enhancing combustion efficiency, optimizing fuel thermal efficiency, and mitigating pollutant emissions. This paper has developed a BP-MRPSO neural network model for studying hydrocarbon fuel ignition and clarified the novelty of this model compared to the traditional BP and ANN models from the literature. The model integrates the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm with MapReduce-based parallel processing technology. This integration improves the prediction accuracy and processing efficiency of the model. Compared to the traditional BP model, the BP-MRPSO model can increase the average correlation coefficient, from 0.9745 to 0.9896. The R2 value for predicting fire characteristics using this model can exceed 90%. Meanwhile, when the two hidden layers of both the BP and BP-MRPSO models consist of 9 and 8 neurons, respectively, the accuracy of the BP-MRPSO model is increased by 38.89% compared to the BP model. This proved that the new BP-MRPSO model has the capacity to handle large datasets while achieving great precision and efficiency. The findings could provide a new perspective for examining the properties of fuel ignition, which is expected to contribute to the development and assessment of aviation fuel ignition characteristics in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section I2: Energy and Combustion Science)
18 pages, 998 KiB  
Article
Influences of the Decomposition Atmosphere and Heating Rate on the Pyrolysis Behaviors of Resin Sand
by Qingwei Xu, Yaping Zhu, Kaili Xu, Bingjun Li and Nan Su
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051234 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The pouring of sand casting is accompanied by severe heat conduction, and there is an urgent need to investigate the pyrolysis properties of foundry sand. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the pyrolysis behaviors of resin sand, including precoated sand [...] Read more.
The pouring of sand casting is accompanied by severe heat conduction, and there is an urgent need to investigate the pyrolysis properties of foundry sand. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the pyrolysis behaviors of resin sand, including precoated sand (PCS), hot box sand (HBS), and warm box sand (WBS), at heating rates of 20 °C/min, 30 °C/min, and 40 °C/min in nitrogen and air atmospheres. The mass loss of the resin sand was monitored continuously with a simultaneous thermal analyzer, and the kinetic parameters of the resin sand were calculated based on the Coats–Redfern method and thermal data. The average mass loss of the resin sand during pyrolysis was 3.03%, which was much smaller than that of the other sands. The volatile release characteristic index of resin sand could not be calculated based on this concept. To solve this issue, the term Tstv/mloss was established, and its value was determined. With increasing heating rates from 20 °C/min to 30 °C/min and from 30 °C/min to 40 °C/min, the mass losses of the resin sand increased by 0.79% and 0.64%, respectively, and the volatile release characteristic indices of the resin sand increased by 3.8 × 10−10 and 1.06 × 10−9, respectively. In addition, the mass losses and volatile release characteristic indices of resin sand in an air atmosphere were greater than those in a nitrogen atmosphere. With increasing heating rate, the activation energy of the resin sand decreased in a nitrogen atmosphere. The findings concerning the thermal decomposition behaviors of resin sand provided a theoretical basis for the pouring step of the sand casting process. Full article
17 pages, 2606 KiB  
Article
Biplane Enhancement Coil for Magnetic Induction Tomography of Cerebral Hemorrhage
by Zhongkai Cao, Bo Ye, Honggui Cao, Yangkun Zou, Zhizhen Zhu and Hongbin Xing
Biosensors 2024, 14(5), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14050217 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Magnetic Induction Tomography (MIT) is a non-invasive imaging technique used for dynamic monitoring and early screening of cerebral hemorrhage. Currently, there is a significant challenge in cerebral hemorrhage MIT due to weak detection signals, which seriously affects the accuracy of the detection results. [...] Read more.
Magnetic Induction Tomography (MIT) is a non-invasive imaging technique used for dynamic monitoring and early screening of cerebral hemorrhage. Currently, there is a significant challenge in cerebral hemorrhage MIT due to weak detection signals, which seriously affects the accuracy of the detection results. To address this issue, a dual-plane enhanced coil was proposed by combining the target field method with consideration of the spatial magnetic field attenuation pattern within the imaging target region. Simulated detection models were constructed using the proposed coil and cylindrical coil as excitation coils, respectively, and simulation imaging tests were conducted using the detection results. The simulation results indicate that compared to the cylindrical coil, the proposed coil enhances the linearity of the magnetic field within the imaging target region by 60.43%. Additionally, it effectively enhances the detection voltage and phase values. The simulation results of hemorrhage detection show that the proposed coil improves the accuracy of hemorrhage detection by 18.26%. It provides more precise detection results, offering a more reliable solution for cerebral hemorrhage localization and detection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wearable Biosensors)
22 pages, 20025 KiB  
Article
Distribution and Stabilisation Mechanisms of Stable Landslide Dams
by Liang Song, Yunsheng Wang, Yuchao Zhao, Zhuolin Xiao, Zhuo Feng, Shicheng Liu and Tao Tang
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3646; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093646 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Landslide dams, especially stable landslide dams, have been recognised as important contributors to regional geomorphological evolution. The eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau provides good conditions for the formation of stable landslide dams. To identify stable landslide dams on the eastern margin of [...] Read more.
Landslide dams, especially stable landslide dams, have been recognised as important contributors to regional geomorphological evolution. The eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau provides good conditions for the formation of stable landslide dams. To identify stable landslide dams on the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, the Google Earth Engine (GEE) was first used to map water surfaces in the study area. Then, stable landslide dams were identified using high-precision remote sensing images provided by Google Earth. A field investigation and a sampling of typical stable landslide dams were also adopted to characterise the landslide dams. The results show that 101 stable landslide dams are present in the study area, covering an area of 27.75 × 104 km2. There are four types of stable landslide dams, as follows: (1) landslides, (2) rock avalanches, (3) moraines, and (4) debris flows. The morphological parameters of a dam, which include dam height, dam width, dam volume, and catchment area, can be fitted with different relationship curves, with respect to the number of landslide dams. The source areas of landslide dams are generally located in the upper-middle and upper sections of adjacent mountains. The stability of a landslide dam is mainly controlled by the structure of the dam and the relationship between the dam volume and catchment area. Structurally, large rocks with large particle sizes are difficult to activate using river water and the large gaps between the rocks provide sufficient channels for the flow of river water. In regard to the relationship between the dam volume and catchment area, a river with a small catchment area in the study area is commonly blocked by a large dam volume. This study provides a unique opportunity to study the spatial distribution and clarify the factors influencing the stability of stable landslide dams. Full article
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49 pages, 1625 KiB  
Article
Navigating the Power of Artificial Intelligence in Risk Management: A Comparative Analysis
by Mohammad Yazdi, Esmaeil Zarei, Sidum Adumene and Amin Beheshti
Safety 2024, 10(2), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10020042 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study presents a responsive analysis of the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in risk management, contrasting traditional approaches with those augmented by AI and highlighting the challenges and opportunities that emerge. AI, intense learning methodologies such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), have [...] Read more.
This study presents a responsive analysis of the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in risk management, contrasting traditional approaches with those augmented by AI and highlighting the challenges and opportunities that emerge. AI, intense learning methodologies such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), have been identified as pivotal in extracting meaningful insights from image data, a form of analysis that holds significant potential in identifying and managing risks across various industries. The research methodology involves a strategic selection and processing of images for analysis and introduces three case studies that serve as benchmarks for evaluation. These case studies showcase the application of AI, in place of image processing capabilities, to identify hazards, evaluate risks, and suggest control measures. The comparative evaluation focuses on the accuracy, relevance, and practicality of the AI-generated findings alongside the system’s response time and comprehensive understanding of the context. Results reveal that AI can significantly enhance risk assessment processes, offering rapid and detailed insights. However, the study also recognises the intrinsic limitations of AI in contextual interpretation, advocating for a synergy between technological and domain-specific expertise. The conclusion underscores the transformative potential of AI in risk management, supporting continued research to further integrate AI effectively into risk assessment frameworks. Full article
14 pages, 6874 KiB  
Article
Influence of Baccharis salicifolia Extract on Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in MCM-41@IONP and Its Application in Room-Temperature-Fabricated Metal–Insulator–Semiconductor Diodes
by Gerardo Miguel Bravo de Luciano, Blanca Susana Soto-Cruz, Anabel Romero-López, Yesmin Panecatl-Bernal, José Alberto Luna-López and Miguel Ángel Domínguez-Jiménez
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(2), 58-71; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5020006 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This work presents the green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) using Baccharis salicifolia extract and their incorporation in mesoporous silica MCM-41, obtaining an MCM-41@IONP composite. The MCM-41@IONP composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nitrogen adsorption and desorption, [...] Read more.
This work presents the green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) using Baccharis salicifolia extract and their incorporation in mesoporous silica MCM-41, obtaining an MCM-41@IONP composite. The MCM-41@IONP composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nitrogen adsorption and desorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The use of the natural reducing agent Baccharis salicifolia resulted in nanoparticles with an average size of 31 nm. Furthermore, we showcase the application of the MCM-41@IONP nanocomposite in a metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) diode, which was fabricated at room temperature. The current–voltage and capacitance–voltage curves of the MIS diode were carefully measured and subjected to detailed analysis. The results demonstrate the potential utility of MCM-41@IONP nanocomposite-based MIS diodes, suggesting their applicability in the design of biosensors or as discrete components in electronic devices. Full article
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19 pages, 1589 KiB  
Article
Low-Carbon Optimization of Integrated Energy Systems with Time-of-Use Carbon Metering on the User Side
by Yulong Yang, Jialin Zhang, Tao Chen and Han Yan
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2071; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092071 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the wake of the dual-carbon objective, the call for low-carbon attributes in integrated energy systems is ascending, with an amplified imperative to integrate wind and solar power efficiently. This study introduces an advanced low-carbon optimization framework for integrated energy systems, incorporating a [...] Read more.
In the wake of the dual-carbon objective, the call for low-carbon attributes in integrated energy systems is ascending, with an amplified imperative to integrate wind and solar power efficiently. This study introduces an advanced low-carbon optimization framework for integrated energy systems, incorporating a sophisticated time-differentiated carbon accounting mechanism attentive to consumer emissions. A nuanced carbon accounting model is crafted to assess consumer emissions with greater accuracy. Predicated on these emissions, a refined low-carbon demand response model is articulated, factoring in the influence of carbon emission factors pertinent to electricity and heat procurement on user conduct. This model integrates the consideration of heat reclaimed from methanation processes, which in turn informs the carbon emission factors associated with purchased heat, and evaluates the subsequent optimization impact on the system. The proposed model is designed to curtail the system’s operational expenditures and is operationalized via the CPLEX solver. Through the establishment of various scenarios for evaluative comparison, the model is corroborated to substantially augment the system’s proficiency in assimilating wind and solar energy, markedly curtail carbon emissions, and facilitate a sustainable and cost-efficient operation of the integrated energy system. Full article

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