MDPI - Publisher of Open Access Journals

19 pages, 2451 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wild Blueberry Extract Intervention in Healthy Older Adults: A Multi-Study, Randomised, Controlled Investigation of Acute Cognitive and Cardiovascular Effects

by Nancy Cheng, Katie L. Barfoot, Romain Le Cozannet, Pascale Fança-Berthon, Daniel J. Lamport and Claire M. Williams

Nutrients 2024, 16(8), 1180; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16081180 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Background: Circadian and homeostatic declines in cognitive performance are observed during the day, most commonly at 14:00. Additionally, postprandial reductions in cognitive ability have been widely demonstrated 1 h after lunch consumption, affecting domains of executive functioning (EF), episodic memory (EM), and attention. [...] Read more.

Background: Circadian and homeostatic declines in cognitive performance are observed during the day, most commonly at 14:00. Additionally, postprandial reductions in cognitive ability have been widely demonstrated 1 h after lunch consumption, affecting domains of executive functioning (EF), episodic memory (EM), and attention. Existing evidence shows that anthocyanin-rich foods such as berries may improve or attenuate the decline in EF and EM in ageing adults. Further research is required to assess whether extracts such as wild blueberry extract (WBE) may be beneficial for cognitive function across an acute timeframe, including known periods of reduced functioning. Objectives: (1) Study 1: ROAB: To investigate the efficacy of WBE in maintaining EF and EM throughout the day alongside measures of cardiovascular outcomes in healthy older adults. A range of WBE doses were utilised to identify the optimal dose at which cognitive and cardiovascular effects occur. (2) Study 2: BEAT: To replicate alleviation of cognitive decline during a predicted post-lunch dip whilst also improving cardiovascular outcomes following acute WBE 222 mg supplementation. Methods: Both studies employed a randomised, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled design to explore the effects of WBE intervention versus placebo on several outcomes, including EM, EF, blood pressure, and heart rate in a healthy older adult population (aged 68–75). In ROAB, 28 participants received a single dose of WBE 111 mg, 222 mg, 444 mg, or 888 mg or placebo over a 5-week period, each separated by a 1-week washout. Outcomes were measured at 0 h, 2 h, 4 h, and 6 h post intervention, with intervention occurring immediately after baseline (0 h). In BEAT, 45 participants received WBE 222 mg and placebo (1-week washout). Outcomes were measured at 0 h and 6 h (14:00) when a post-lunch dip was anticipated. This was further enhanced by consumption of lunch 1 h prior to cognitive testing. The WBE 222 mg intervention aligned with known peaks in plasma blueberry polyphenol metabolites at 2 h post dosing, which would coincide with a predicted drop in post-lunch performance. Results: ROAB: A significant dip in executive function was apparent at the 4 h timepoint for placebo only, indicating attenuation for WBE doses. Strikingly, WBE 222 mg produced acute reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared with placebo. BEAT: EF reaction time was found to be significantly faster for WBE 222 compared to placebo at the predicted post-lunch dip (14:00), with no other notable benefits on a range of cognitive and cardiovascular outcomes. Conclusion: These two studies indicate that WBE may have cardiovascular benefits and attenuate the natural cognitive decline observed over the course of the day, particularly when a decline is associated with a circadian rhythm-driven postprandial dip. However, it is important to acknowledge that effects were subtle, and benefits were only observed on a small number of outcomes. Further research is required to explore the utility of WBE in populations already experiencing mild cognitive impairments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Association between Nutrition and Brain Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1510 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Uncertainty in Internal Erosion Simulations for DLBreach and WinDAM C

by Anthony Atkinson and Mitchell Neilsen

GeoHazards 2024, 5(2), 350-363; https://doi.org/10.3390/geohazards5020018 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

The work detailed here is part of an international initiative on the evaluation of dam safety simulation software for internal erosion performance and best practices. The primary experiments involve simulating uncertainty in the failure events of two dams with two different models: DLBreach [...] Read more.

The work detailed here is part of an international initiative on the evaluation of dam safety simulation software for internal erosion performance and best practices. The primary experiments involve simulating uncertainty in the failure events of two dams with two different models: DLBreach and WinDAM C. DLBreach is a physically-based dam/levee breach model developed by Wu. WinDAM C is also a physically based dam breach model capable of analyzing both dam overtopping and internal erosion. The dams selected for the analysis include a 1.3 m high dam tested in the lab and a larger 15.56 m high dam, which suffered a failure in the field. The findings from these experiments are extended with a further analysis on variance, sensitivity, and optimization. Finally, a regression model is trained using the results of these simulators as an inquiry into how well such a system can be captured using machine learning techniques. The results of these experiments, together with the results of the other members of the initiative, improve our understanding of the influences that users bring to using these tools. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 254 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Implementation Research to Inform Scaling of Parenting Programs: Independently Conducted Case Studies from Zambia and Bhutan

by Frances Aboud, Karma Choden, Given Hapunda, Francis Sichimba, Ania Chaluda, Rafael Contreras Gomez, Rachel Hatch, Sara Dang, Karma Dyenka, Cecilia Banda and Carina Omoeva

Children 2024, 11(4), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11040477 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Two case studies of parenting programs for parents of children 0 to 36 months of age, developed and implemented by Save the Children/Ministry of Health/Khesar Gyalpo University in Bhutan and UNICEF Zambia, were conducted by an independent research group. The focus was on [...] Read more.

Two case studies of parenting programs for parents of children 0 to 36 months of age, developed and implemented by Save the Children/Ministry of Health/Khesar Gyalpo University in Bhutan and UNICEF Zambia, were conducted by an independent research group. The focus was on how program delivery and scale-up were revised on the basis of feedback from implementation research. Feedback on workforce delivery quality was based on observations of deliveries using a monitoring form, as well as survey and interview data collected from the workforce. In-depth interviews with the resource team during the fourth year of implementation revealed how the feedback was used to address horizontal and vertical scaling. Delivery quality was improved in some cases by revising the delivery manual, offering refresher courses, and instituting regular monitoring. Scaling challenges in Zambia included slow progress with regard to reaching families in the two districts, which they addressed by trialing group sessions, and stemming workforce attrition. The challenges in Bhutan were low attendance and reducing the workload of providers. Vertical scaling challenges for both countries concerned maintaining demand through continuous advocacy at community and government levels to sustain financing and to show effectiveness in outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Childhood Care and Education in Low- and Middle- Income Countries)

20 pages, 14537 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of AURKA as a Biomarker Associated with Cuproptosis and Ferroptosis in HNSCC

by Xiao Jia, Jiao Tian, Yueyue Fu, Yiqi Wang, Yang Yang, Mengzhou Zhang, Cheng Yang and Yijin Liu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4372; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084372 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Cuproptosis and ferroptosis represent copper- and iron-dependent forms of cell death, respectively, and both are known to play pivotal roles in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, few studies have explored the prognostic signatures related to cuproptosis and ferroptosis in HNSCC. [...] Read more.

Cuproptosis and ferroptosis represent copper- and iron-dependent forms of cell death, respectively, and both are known to play pivotal roles in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, few studies have explored the prognostic signatures related to cuproptosis and ferroptosis in HNSCC. Our objective was to construct a prognostic model based on genes associated with cuproptosis and ferroptosis. We randomly assigned 502 HSNCC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) into training and testing sets. Pearson correlation analysis was utilized to identify cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes in the training set. Cox proportional hazards (COX) regression and least absolute shrinkage operator (LASSO) were employed to construct the prognostic model. The performance of the prognostic model was internally validated using single-factor COX regression, multifactor COX regression, Kaplan–Meier analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis. Additionally, we obtained 97 samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database for external validation. The constructed model, based on 12 cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes, proved to be an independent predictor of HNSCC prognosis. Among these genes, the increased expression of aurora kinase A (AURKA) has been implicated in various cancers. To further investigate, we employed small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to knock down AURKA expression and conducted functional experiments. The results demonstrated that AURKA knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of HNSCC cells (Cal27 and CNE2). Therefore, AURKA may serve as a potential biomarker in HNSCC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Iron Metabolism and Toxicity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 11227 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Method for Stabilizing the Vibration Amplitude of a Flip-Flow Vibrating Screen Using Piecewise Linear Springs

by Dongdong Lin, Xinwen Wang, Ningning Xu, Weiran Zuo and Zhian Liang

Minerals 2024, 14(4), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14040406 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

The flip-flow vibrating screen (FFVS) is a novel multi-body screening equipment that utilizes vibrations to classify bulk materials in the field of screening machinery. The relative amplitude of FFVSs determines the tension and ejection intensity of elastic flip-flow screen panels, which is a [...] Read more.

The flip-flow vibrating screen (FFVS) is a novel multi-body screening equipment that utilizes vibrations to classify bulk materials in the field of screening machinery. The relative amplitude of FFVSs determines the tension and ejection intensity of elastic flip-flow screen panels, which is a critical operating parameter affecting the screening performance. However, FFVSs generally suffer from large variations of relative amplitude caused by the loading of materials and the changes in shear spring stiffness (the temperature changes of the shear springs lead to their stiffness changes), which significantly reduce the screening efficiency and lifespan of FFVSs. To address this problem, this paper proposes a nonlinear stiffness-based method for stabilizing the vibration amplitude of FFVSs using piecewise linear springs. By introducing these springs between the two frames, the sensitivity of the relative amplitude to shear spring stiffness is reduced, thereby achieving the stabilization of the relative amplitude of FFVSs. In this study, the variations of the vibration amplitude of the FFVS due to the loading of materials and the changes in shear spring stiffness were first demonstrated in a reasonable operating frequency range. Then the reasonable operating frequency range and dynamics of the resultant nonlinear flip-flow vibrating screen (NFFVS) with piecewise linear springs were investigated using the harmonic balance method (HBM) and the Runge–Kutta numerical method. The operating frequency region for the NFFVS lies between the critical frequency

ω_{c s}

and the frequency

ω_{l b}

corresponding to the saddle-node bifurcation point. Finally, a test rig was designed to validate the theoretical predictions. Theoretical and experimental results demonstrate that piecewise linear springs can effectively stabilize the relative amplitude of the FFVS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 5275 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Low-Temperature Synthesis of Bi₂S₃ Hierarchical Microstructures via Co-Precipitation and Digestive Process in Aqueous Medium

by José Alfonso Carrasco-González, Rebeca Ortega-Amaya, Esteban Díaz-Torres, Manuel A. Pérez-Guzmán and Mauricio Ortega-López

Materials 2024, 17(8), 1818; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17081818 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Bismuth sulfide (Bi₂S₃) nanostructures have gained significant attention in the fields of catalysis, optoelectronics, and biomedicine due to their unique physicochemical properties. This paper introduces a simple and cost-effective method for producing Bi₂S₃ microstructures at low [...] Read more.

Bismuth sulfide (Bi₂S₃) nanostructures have gained significant attention in the fields of catalysis, optoelectronics, and biomedicine due to their unique physicochemical properties. This paper introduces a simple and cost-effective method for producing Bi₂S₃ microstructures at low temperatures (25 and 70 °C). These microstructures are formed by the hierarchical self-assembly of Bi₂S₃ nanoparticles, which are typically 15–40 nm in size. The nanoparticles are synthesized by the co-precipitation of thioglycolic acid, thioacetamide, and bismuth nitrate in water. The study delves into the phase composition and morphological evolution of the microstructures, concerning the chemical composition of the solution and the synthesis temperature. X-ray analysis has confirmed the formation of single-phase bismuthinite Bi₂S₃. The synthesis process generates primary building blocks in the form of 15–40 nm Bi₂S₃ nanocrystals, which then go through a hierarchical self-assembly process to produce a range of micrometer-sized structures. A scanning electron microscopy examination revealed that the primary nanoparticles self-assemble into quasi-1D worm-like nanostructures, which then self-assemble to create sponge-shaped microstructures. These structures subsequently self-organize and refine into either flower- or dandelion-like microstructures, mostly depending on the synthesis temperature and the chemistry of the digestion medium. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization and Applications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 7070 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Dietary Fermented Soybean Residue on the Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, Digestive Enzyme Activities, and Microbial Compositions of the Intestine in Furong Crucian Carp (Furong Carp♀ × Red Crucian Carp♂)

by Hongquan Wang, Zheming Zhang, Feilong Li, Liang Hu, Tiaoyi Xiao, Yurong Zhao and Mengxi Yang

Fishes 2024, 9(4), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040138 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

An 8-week feeding experiment aimed to investigate the effects of fermented soybean residue in diets on the growth performance, serum antioxidant parameters, intestinal digestive capacity, and microbial composition of the hindgut of Furong crucian carp. The feeds were formulated to contain 0%, 6%, [...] Read more.

An 8-week feeding experiment aimed to investigate the effects of fermented soybean residue in diets on the growth performance, serum antioxidant parameters, intestinal digestive capacity, and microbial composition of the hindgut of Furong crucian carp. The feeds were formulated to contain 0%, 6%, 12%, 18%, and 24% fermented soybean residue (CON, FSR6, FSR12, FSR18, and FSR24, respectively), respectively, to form five diets (crude protein: 33%; crude lipid: 5%). The results showed that incorporating 6% fermented soybean residue into the diet significantly increased the weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) and decreased the feed coefficient rate (p < 0.05). Through regression analysis of WGR and SGR, the optimal levels of the dietary fermented soybean residue of Furong crucian carp were determined to be 6.78% and 7.06%. Incorporating fermented soybean residue into the diet decreased the lipid content of the whole body and the levels of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride in the serum of Furong crucian carp. The inclusion of 6% and 12% fermented soybean residue in the diet markedly increased the antioxidant capacity, intestinal amylase activity, and intestinal villous height of Furong crucian carp (p < 0.05). At the 6% level, fermented soybean residue significantly increased the abundance of Romboutsia and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 while significantly decreasing the abundance of Vibrio (p < 0.05), indicating that a 6% level of fermented soybean residue was beneficial for intestinal health. In conclusion, incorporating 6–7% fermented soybean residue into the diet of Furong crucian carp was recommended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Feeding)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 10455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Al Evaporation during AlV55 Melting and Alloy Preparation

by Bin Sun, Heli Wan, Baoqiang Xu, Xianjun Lei and Lanjie Li

Metals 2024, 14(4), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14040466 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Vacuum induction melting is a commonly used method for preparing AlV55 alloys. However, this method results in high Al evaporation losses, leading to poor cost control. Moreover, the influence of the process parameters on the alloy composition remains unclear. In this study, the [...] Read more.

Vacuum induction melting is a commonly used method for preparing AlV55 alloys. However, this method results in high Al evaporation losses, leading to poor cost control. Moreover, the influence of the process parameters on the alloy composition remains unclear. In this study, the evaporation pattern of Al in the melting and preparation processes of AlV55 alloys is studied, and measures for controlling the system pressure are proposed to effectively reduce Al evaporation. The experimental results show that smelting under an Ar gas atmosphere of 2000 Pa can reduce the evaporation loss of Al from 11.48% under vacuum conditions (60 Pa) to 0.58% of the amount of raw material added, effectively improving the metal utilization rate and reducing production costs. The influence of various process parameters on the alloy composition and Al volatilization are investigated to enable the effective control of the compositional uniformity and impurity content of the resulting alloys. Under optimal conditions, the impurity contents of C, O, and N are 0.03%, 0.0073%, and 0.013%, respectively; this reduces the amount of Al lost by evaporation compared to conventional methods, and the alloy produced meets commercial standards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remelting and Casting Processes in the Production of Metals and Alloys)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 9200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bounding Volume Hierarchy-Assisted Fast SAR Image Simulation Based on Spatial Segmentation

by Ke Wu, Guowang Jin, Xin Xiong and Quanjie Shi

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3340; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083340 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

In order to improve the simulation efficiency under the premise of ensuring the fidelity of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) simulation images, we propose a BVH-assisted fast SAR image simulation method based on spatial segmentation. The beam scanning model is established based on RD [...] Read more.

In order to improve the simulation efficiency under the premise of ensuring the fidelity of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) simulation images, we propose a BVH-assisted fast SAR image simulation method based on spatial segmentation. The beam scanning model is established based on RD imaging geometric relation, and the bounding volume hierarchy (BVH) algorithm is used to assist in obtaining the time-varying latticed radiation and shadow areas within the radar beam, combining them with the real-time position of the sensors to complete the simulation of the electromagnetic (EM) wave transmission. The ray tracing algorithm is used to calculate the multiple backscatter fields of EM waves, including various material properties of the target surface. The SAR spatial traversal is adopted to spatially segment the latticed radiation area, and the compute unified device architecture (CUDA) kernel function is designed using the echo matrix cell method to make each cell of the target echo matrix as a subfield of the backscattering field, and the position of the echo matrix cell is traversed to obtain the target backscattering field. The target simulated echo is processed by the range Doppler (RD) imaging algorithm to obtain the SAR-simulated image. The simulation results show that compared with a CPU single-thread simulation, the simulation speed of the proposed method is significantly improved, and the SAR simulation image has high structural similarity with the real image, which fully verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Radar Imaging and Signal Processing)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 1020 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantification of Etoricoxib in Low Plasma Volume by UPLC-PDA and Application to Preclinical Pharmacokinetic Study

by Sapir Ifrah, Daniel Porat, Mordechai Deutsch and Arik Dahan

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 507; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040507 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

An ultra-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array (UPLC-PDA) UV detection method was developed here for the first time for simple, rapid, selective and sensitive quantification of the commonly prescribed selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor etoricoxib in low plasma volumes (50 μL). The method includes [...] Read more.

An ultra-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array (UPLC-PDA) UV detection method was developed here for the first time for simple, rapid, selective and sensitive quantification of the commonly prescribed selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor etoricoxib in low plasma volumes (50 μL). The method includes protein precipitation followed by liquid–liquid extraction, evaporation and reconstitution. A gradient mobile phase of 75:25 going to 55:45 (v/v) water:acetonitrile (1 mL/min flow rate) was applied. Total run time was 8 min, representing a significant improvement relative to previous reports. Excellent linearity (r² = 1) was obtained over a wide (0.1–12 µg/mL) etoricoxib concentration range. Short retention times for etoricoxib (4.9 min) and the internal standard trazodone (6.4 min), as well as high stability, recovery, accuracy, precision and reproducibility, and low etoricoxib LOD (20 ng/mL) and LOQ (100 ng/mL), were achieved. Finally, the method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study (single 20 mg/kg orally administered etoricoxib mini-capsule) in rats. In conclusion, the advantages demonstrated in this work make this analytical method both time- and cost-efficient for drug monitoring in pre-clinical/clinical settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biopharmaceuticals)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 1894 KiB

Open AccessReview

Approaches to Reducing Normal Tissue Radiation from Radiolabeled Antibodies

by Hiroyuki Suzuki, Kento Kannaka and Tomoya Uehara

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040508 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Radiolabeled antibodies are powerful tools for both imaging and therapy in the field of nuclear medicine. Radiolabeling methods that do not release radionuclides from parent antibodies are essential for radiolabeling antibodies, and practical radiolabeling protocols that provide high in vivo stability have been [...] Read more.

Radiolabeled antibodies are powerful tools for both imaging and therapy in the field of nuclear medicine. Radiolabeling methods that do not release radionuclides from parent antibodies are essential for radiolabeling antibodies, and practical radiolabeling protocols that provide high in vivo stability have been established for many radionuclides, with a few exceptions. However, several limitations remain, including undesirable side effects on the biodistribution profiles of antibodies. This review summarizes the numerous efforts made to tackle this problem and the recent advances, mainly in preclinical studies. These include pretargeting approaches, engineered antibody fragments and constructs, the secondary injection of clearing agents, and the insertion of metabolizable linkages. Finally, we discuss the potential of these approaches and their prospects for further clinical application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibody-Based Imaging and Targeted Therapy in Cancer)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 3902 KiB

Open AccessReview

Plasma Circular RNAs as Biomarkers for Breast Cancer

by Domenico Tierno, Gabriele Grassi, Fabrizio Zanconati, Barbara Dapas and Bruna Scaggiante

Biomedicines 2024, 12(4), 875; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12040875 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) is currently the most common neoplasm, the second leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide, and is a major health problem. The discovery of new biomarkers is crucial to improve our knowledge of breast cancer and strengthen our clinical [...] Read more.

Breast cancer (BC) is currently the most common neoplasm, the second leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide, and is a major health problem. The discovery of new biomarkers is crucial to improve our knowledge of breast cancer and strengthen our clinical approaches to diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up. In recent decades, there has been increasing interest in circulating RNA (circRNA) as modulators of gene expression involved in tumor development and progression. The study of circulating circRNAs (ccircRNAs) in plasma may provide new non-invasive diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers for BC. This review describes the latest findings on BC-associated ccircRNAs in plasma and their clinical utility. Several ccircRNAs in plasma have shown great potential as BC biomarkers, especially from a diagnostic point of view. Mechanistically, most of the reported BC-associated ccircRNAs are involved in the regulation of cell survival, proliferation, and invasion, mainly via MAPK/AKT signaling pathways. However, the study of circRNAs is a relatively new area of research, and a larger number of studies will be crucial to confirm their potential as plasma biomarkers and to understand their involvement in BC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RNA Biology: From Genome to Therapeutic Targets)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 3999 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Establishment of a Uniaxial Tensile Fracture Inversion Model Based on Fracture Surface Reconstruction (FRASTA)

by Haidong Jia, Zhenghao Jiao, Lianshuang Dai, Yongbin Que, Qingshan Feng, Ming Yang and Yuguang Cao

Coatings 2024, 14(4), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14040489 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

In order to infer the load on the component after the experimental uniaxial tensile fracture inversion model based on cross-sectional reconstruction, (FRASTA) was proposed to infer the load on the tested components. This model can combine the fracture surface characteristics of experimental specimens [...] Read more.

In order to infer the load on the component after the experimental uniaxial tensile fracture inversion model based on cross-sectional reconstruction, (FRASTA) was proposed to infer the load on the tested components. This model can combine the fracture surface characteristics of experimental specimens to reconstruct the fracture surface morphology and invert the fracture process of uniaxial tensile specimens. Based on the assumption of rectangular rod fracture, a quantitative inversion model for a unidirectional stress load based on dissipative plasticity characteristics was established, and the inversion results based on cross-sectional reconstruction were compared with the experimental measurement results. The results indicate that when only considering the unidirectional stress state, the two have a high degree of consistency, with a maximum measurement error of 5.3%, fully verifying the accuracy of the fracture surface reconstruction and inversion model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Material Surface Treatment Technology for a New Era)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 730 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Targeted Biopsy in the Detection of Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer in Patients with Suspicious Digital Rectal Examination

by Vincenzo Ficarra, Alessandro Buttitta, Marta Rossanese, Angela Alibrandi, Giuseppina Anastasi, Alfredo Blandino, Antonio Ieni, Maurizio Martini and Gianluca Giannarini

Soc. Int. Urol. J. 2024, 5(2), 122-132; https://doi.org/10.3390/siuj5020021 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Objectives: Few studies have examined the role of prostate MRI in patients with suspicious digital rectal examination (DRE) and/or PSA > 10 ng/mL. In a cohort of non-screened patients with suspicious DRE, we investigated the rate of avoidable prostate biopsies and potentially [...] Read more.

Objectives: Few studies have examined the role of prostate MRI in patients with suspicious digital rectal examination (DRE) and/or PSA > 10 ng/mL. In a cohort of non-screened patients with suspicious DRE, we investigated the rate of avoidable prostate biopsies and potentially missed clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) with negative MRI, and the concordance between targeted biopsy (TBx) and systematic biopsy (SBx) in detecting csPCa with positive MRI. Methods: We retrospectively examined 199 biopsy-naïve patients with suspicious DRE who underwent prostate MRI before transperineal biopsy. Prostate Imaging—Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) v2.1 ≥ 3 category of the index lesion defined a positive MRI. Combined TBx/SBx and SBx alone were performed for positive and negative MRI, respectively. An International Society of Urogenital Pathology Grade Group ≥ 2 defined csPCa. We calculated the csPCa detection rate of TBx, SBx, and combined TBx/SBx. The Cohen kappa statistic was used to measure the concordance between TBx and SBx. Results: Ninety-one (45.7%) csPCa cases were detected. MRI was positive in 153 (76.9%) patients. In the 46 patients with negative MRI, SBx detected 5 (10.9%) csPCa cases. Prostate biopsy could, thus, be avoided in 41/199 (20.6%) patients at the cost of missing 5/91 (5.5%) csPCa cases. The concordance between TBx and SBx in detecting csPCa with positive mpMRI was substantial (k = 0.70). Specifically, 6/86 (6.9%) csPCa cases were detected with TBx, and 17/86 (19.7%) with SBx alone. Concordance was almost perfect (k = 0.82) in patients with PSA > 10 ng/mL. Only 4/38 (10.5%) csPCa cases were missed by TBx, and only 1 (2.6%) csPCa case was identified by TBx alone. Conclusions: MRI in patients with suspicious DRE could avoid roughly 21% of unnecessary biopsies at the cost of missing approximately 6% of csPCa cases. Moreover, MRI and TBx complemented SBx in detecting csPCa in the subgroup with PSA > 10 ng/mL. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 266 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“She Is the Seminary”: The Life and Ministry of Dr. Olive L. Clark (1894–1989), Canadian Fundamentalist Educator

by Taylor Murray

Religions 2024, 15(4), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15040490 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

This article explores the life and contributions of Dr. Olive L. Clark (1894–1989), a long-time faculty member at the fundamentalist Toronto Baptist Seminary (TBS). In the 1920s, Clark sided with the fundamentalists and became a vocal critic of the Baptist Convention of Ontario [...] Read more.

This article explores the life and contributions of Dr. Olive L. Clark (1894–1989), a long-time faculty member at the fundamentalist Toronto Baptist Seminary (TBS). In the 1920s, Clark sided with the fundamentalists and became a vocal critic of the Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec. As the first person to receive a PhD in Classics from the University of Toronto, she was a gifted scholar. In 1928, she became one of the first faculty members at the newly-minted Toronto Baptist Seminary—operated by the prominent fundamentalist leader T. T. Shields—and remained there until her retirement thirty-eight years later. Through those years and even into retirement, she took an active role in the fundamentalist community by training pastors, publishing lesson plans and articles, speaking in various churches, and serving as co-editor of The Gospel Witness newspaper. In the process, she helped guide and shape the movement, both behind the scenes and in visible ways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reclaiming Voices: Women's Contributions to Baptist History)

11 pages, 1887 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Collagen Matrix to Hemostatic Gelatin Sponge as Socket Seal in Alveolar Ridge Preservation

by Célien Eeckhout, Lorenz Seyssens, Maarten Glibert, Laurens Keppens, Baptist Nollet, Martijn Lambert and Jan Cosyn

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(8), 2293; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13082293 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

(1) Objectives: This study aimed to compare a collagen matrix to a hemostatic gelatin sponge as a socket seal in alveolar ridge preservation (ARP). (2) Methods: Systemically healthy patients planned for ARP at two sites with more than 50% of the buccal bone [...] Read more.

(1) Objectives: This study aimed to compare a collagen matrix to a hemostatic gelatin sponge as a socket seal in alveolar ridge preservation (ARP). (2) Methods: Systemically healthy patients planned for ARP at two sites with more than 50% of the buccal bone wall remaining after tooth extraction were eligible for inclusion. ARP involved socket grafting using collagen-enriched deproteinized bovine bone mineral. Sites were then randomly assigned to the test group (collagen matrix) or the control group (hemostatic gelatin sponge). The primary outcome was soft tissue thickness in the center of the site at 4 months, analyzed on cone-beam computed tomography. Secondary outcomes included the buccal and lingual soft tissue heights, horizontal bone loss, buccal soft tissue profile changes, wound dimensions, and Socket Wound Healing Score (SWHS). (3) Results: In total, 18 patients (12 females, 6 males) with a mean age of 57.3 years (SD 11.1) were included. Four months after ARP, the soft tissue thickness in the center of the site amounted to 2.48 mm (SD 0.70) in the test group and 1.81 mm (SD 0.69) in the control group. The difference of 0.67 mm (95% CI: 0.20–1.14) in favor of the collagen matrix was statistically significant (p < 0.009). The buccal soft tissue height was also statistically significantly higher for the collagen matrix (0.72 mm; 95% CI: 0.06–1.38; p = 0.034). A trend favoring the collagen matrix was found for the lingual soft tissue height (p = 0.066). No significant differences between the groups in terms of horizontal bone loss, buccal soft tissue profile changes, wound dimensions, and the SWHS were found. (4) Conclusions: The absence of significant differences in hard tissue outcomes suggests that both the collagen matrix and hemostatic gelatin sponge effectively sealed the extraction socket and supported bone preservation. However, the collagen matrix better maintained soft tissue dimensions. The clinical relevance of this finding with respect to the necessity for adjunctive soft tissue augmentation at the time of implant placement is yet to be studied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 928 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Side Information Design in Zero-Error Coding for Computing

by Nicolas Charpenay, Maël Le Treust and Aline Roumy

Entropy 2024, 26(4), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26040338 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

We investigate the zero-error coding for computing problems with encoder side information. An encoder provides access to a source X and is furnished with side information

g (Y)

. It communicates with a decoder that possesses side information Y and aims [...] Read more.

We investigate the zero-error coding for computing problems with encoder side information. An encoder provides access to a source X and is furnished with side information

g (Y)

. It communicates with a decoder that possesses side information Y and aims to retrieve

f (X, Y)

with zero probability of error, where f and g are assumed to be deterministic functions. In previous work, we determined a condition that yields an analytic expression for the optimal rate

R^{*} (g)

; in particular, it covers the case where

P_{X, Y}

is full support. In this article, we review this result and study the side information design problem, which consists of finding the best trade-offs between the quality of the encoder’s side information

g (Y)

and

R^{*} (g)

. We construct two greedy algorithms that give an achievable set of points in the side information design problem, based on partition refining and coarsening. One of them runs in polynomial time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extremal and Additive Combinatorial Aspects in Information Theory)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3932 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Melamine-Modified Graphene Oxide as a Corrosion Resistance Enhancing Additive for Waterborne Epoxy Resin Coatings

by Xin Li, Dongsheng Li, Jie Chen, Dongxia Huo, Xin Gao, Junhui Dong, Yue Yin, Jun Liu and Ding Nan

Coatings 2024, 14(4), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14040488 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Waterborne epoxy resin (WEP) coatings are widely used in various fields due to their environmentally friendly properties, yet their corrosion resistance and shielding properties demand further refinement. In this work, melamine-modified graphene oxide (MGO) was synthesized using surface covalent functionalization, and a novel [...] Read more.

Waterborne epoxy resin (WEP) coatings are widely used in various fields due to their environmentally friendly properties, yet their corrosion resistance and shielding properties demand further refinement. In this work, melamine-modified graphene oxide (MGO) was synthesized using surface covalent functionalization, and a novel waterborne epoxy/modified graphene oxide coating (WEP/MGO) was prepared. The optimal modification effect was obtained by exploring different proportions of melamine, which led to significant improvements in the corrosion resistance of WEP. Furthermore, the corrosion protection efficiency of WEP/MGO coatings was systematically evaluated by examining the impact of different additions of MGO. The impedance modulus at the lowest frequency was increased from 3.77 × 10⁸ Ω·cm² of WEP to 2.85 × 10⁹ Ω·cm² after immersion in 3.5% NaCl for 48 h, when the addition of MGO was 0.1 wt.%. And the corrosion expansion at both the scratch and corrosion spot frequencies of the WEP-coated samples displayed a remarkable attenuation following exposure to salt spray for 300 h. The corrosion resistance and barrier properties of WEP coatings have been considerably enhanced. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Corrosion, Wear and Erosion)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 2578 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Endogenous Lipids on Mechanical Properties of Wheat Gluten Fractions, Gliadin and Glutenin, under Small, Medium, and Large Deformations

by Gamze Yazar, Jozef L. Kokini and Brennan Smith

Lipidology 2024, 1(1), 30-51; https://doi.org/10.3390/lipidology1010004 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

The individual viscoelastic responses of gluten proteins and their lipid-removed counterparts were studied under mixing deformations and small, medium, and large deformations selected in the Large Amplitude Oscillatory Shear (LAOS) sweeps. During Farinograph mixing, gliadin reached the 500 BU consistency line after 3.6 [...] Read more.

The individual viscoelastic responses of gluten proteins and their lipid-removed counterparts were studied under mixing deformations and small, medium, and large deformations selected in the Large Amplitude Oscillatory Shear (LAOS) sweeps. During Farinograph mixing, gliadin reached the 500 BU consistency line after 3.6 ± 0.4 min, while the highest consistency recorded for lipid-removed gliadin was 268 ± 8.4 BU, suggesting a reduction in the water absorption of gliadin in the absence of lipids. The affinity of glutenin to water increased in the absence of lipids, as development time was reached 11 min earlier for lipid-removed glutenin. Under small LAOS strains, tanδ of gliadin remained constant with the removal of lipids, while glutenin’s elasticity decreased (tanδ increased) in the absence of lipids at high frequencies. Intracycle strain-stiffening behavior (e₃/e₁ > 0) of gliadin increased under medium deformations with high frequency and decreased under low-frequency large deformations as lipids were removed, while this response decreased for glutenin with the removal of lipids only under high-frequency medium and large deformations. Under large LAOS strains, the clockwise rotation of the Lissajous–Bowditch curves for gliadin in the absence of lipids suggested higher intercycle strain-softening and shear-thinning, while the counter-clockwise rotation of the curves for glutenin in the absence of lipids suggested lower intercycle strain-softening and shear-thinning. These results revealed the influence of endogenous lipids on the viscous-dominated response of gliadin and to the elastic-dominated response of glutenin, while balancing the intracycle strain-stiffening behaviors of these gluten proteins especially under large deformations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technologies and Quality Control of Lipid-Based Foods)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 740 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Prime Surprisal as a Tool for Assessing Error-Based Learning Theories: A Systematic Review

by Judit Fazekas, Giovanni Sala and Julian Pine

Languages 2024, 9(4), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages9040147 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Error-based learning theories of language acquisition are highly influential in language development research, yet the predictive learning mechanism they propose has proven difficult to test experimentally. Prime surprisal—the observation that structural priming is stronger following more surprising primes—has emerged as a promising methodology [...] Read more.

Error-based learning theories of language acquisition are highly influential in language development research, yet the predictive learning mechanism they propose has proven difficult to test experimentally. Prime surprisal—the observation that structural priming is stronger following more surprising primes—has emerged as a promising methodology for resolving this issue as it tests a key prediction of error-based learning theories: surprising input leads to increased structure repetition as well as learning. However, as prime surprisal is a relatively new paradigm, it is worth evaluating how far this promise has been fulfilled. We have conducted a systemic review of PS studies to assess the strengths and limitations of existing approaches, with 13 contributions selected out of 66 search results. We found that alongside inconsistency in statistical power and how the level of surprisal is measured, the limited scope of current results cast doubt on whether PS can be used as a general tool to assess error-based learning. We suggest two key directions for future research: firstly, targeting the scope of the prime surprisal effect itself with reliable statistical power and appropriate surprisal measurements across a greater variety of languages and grammatical structures; and secondly, using the prime surprisal method as a tool to assess the scope of an error-based learning mechanism utilising conditions in which prime surprisal has been reliably established. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Syntactic Adaptation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 14808 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Mechanism of Eurotium amstelodami from Fuzhuan Brick Tea against Colitis and Gut-Derived Liver Injury Induced by Dextran Sulfate Sodium in C57BL/6 Mice

by Xin Wang, Jinhu Liu, Jianping Wei, Yuxiang Zhang, Yunpeng Xu, Tianli Yue and Yahong Yuan

Nutrients 2024, 16(8), 1178; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16081178 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

The study explored the potential protective impact of the probiotic fungus Eurotium amstelodami in Fuzhuan brick tea on ulcerative colitis, along with the underlying mechanism. A spore suspension of E. amstelodami was administered to C57BL/6 mice to alleviate DSS-induced colitis. The findings indicated [...] Read more.

The study explored the potential protective impact of the probiotic fungus Eurotium amstelodami in Fuzhuan brick tea on ulcerative colitis, along with the underlying mechanism. A spore suspension of E. amstelodami was administered to C57BL/6 mice to alleviate DSS-induced colitis. The findings indicated that administering E. amstelodami evidently enhanced the ultrastructure of colonic epithelium, showing characteristics such as enhanced TJ length, reduced microvilli damage, and enlarged intercellular space. After HLL supplementation, the activation of the liver inflammation pathway, including TLR4/NF-kB and NLRP3 inflammasome caused by DSS, was significantly suppressed, and bile acid metabolism, linking liver and gut, was enhanced, manifested by restoration of bile acid receptor (FXR, TGR5) level. The dysbiosis of the gut microbes in colitis mice was also restored by HLL intervention, characterized by the enrichment of beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Akkermansia, and Faecalibaculum) and fungi (Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Wallemia, Eurotium, and Cladosporium), which was closely associated with lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism, and was negatively correlated with inflammatory gene expression. Hence, the recovery of gut microbial community structure, implicated deeply in the inflammatory index and metabolites profile, might play a crucial role in the therapeutic mechanism of HLL on colitis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Metabolism)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 6421 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Trunk Truncation as a Potential Sustainable Management Option for Asian Longhorned Beetle on Salix babylonica

by Chen Huang, Hualing Wang, Xiaoxia Hai, Zhigang Wang and Fei Lyu

Insects 2024, 15(4), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15040278 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

The Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) causes substantial economic and ecological losses, thus, an environmentally friendly management strategy is needed. Here, we propose high trunk truncation (HTT), the removal of the above 200 cm portion of trees, as a sustainable management strategy to control [...] Read more.

The Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) causes substantial economic and ecological losses, thus, an environmentally friendly management strategy is needed. Here, we propose high trunk truncation (HTT), the removal of the above 200 cm portion of trees, as a sustainable management strategy to control ALB. To examine the hypothesis, an initial step involved the assessment of various biological characteristics of ALB. Subsequently, a controlled field experiment was carried out utilizing HTT. Finally, HTT was applied in two additional ALB infestation regions. The results of the study of the biological characteristics of ALB showed that 76.31–78.88% of frass holes and 85.08–87.93% of emergence holes were located on branches above 200 cm. Adults preferred to feed on branches 2–3 cm in diameter, ALB eggs were predominantly laid on 5 cm branches, and both were primarily located above 200 cm. These results revealed a correlation between the number of ALBs and the tree crown height. The controlled field experiment showed that the number of ALBs was significantly decreased when the HTT strategy was implemented: approximately 90% of frass holes and 95% of adults were eradicated by HTT compared with the control. Different field surveys involving HTT have shown similar results. These findings provide valuable insights into a sustainable and efficient management strategy for reducing the number of ALBs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Pest Management in Agricultural Crops and Forest Ecosystems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 6055 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transglutaminase-Cross-Linked Tofu Suppressed Soybean-Induced Allergic Reactions by Enhancing Intestinal Mucosa Immune Tolerance

by Jing Bai, Yiling Zhou, Xinlei Xia, Zhihua Wu, Xin Li, Ping Tong, Anshu Yang and Hongbing Chen

Foods 2024, 13(8), 1206; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13081206 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024

Abstract

Currently, food allergies are closely related to intestinal health, and ensuring the integrity and health of intestinal mucosa could reduce the incidence of food allergies. In this study, a soybean-allergic mouse model was used to explore the mechanism of intestinal mucosa immune response [...] Read more.

Currently, food allergies are closely related to intestinal health, and ensuring the integrity and health of intestinal mucosa could reduce the incidence of food allergies. In this study, a soybean-allergic mouse model was used to explore the mechanism of intestinal mucosa immune response induced by enzyme-cross-linked tofu. The effects of enzyme-cross-linked tofu on intestinal mucosal immunity in mice were determined by hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining and flow cytometry. Our results reveled that the MTG-cross-linked tofu reduced the reactivity of the intestinal mucosal immune system, which mainly manifested as a decrease in the dendritic cell (DC) levels of mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs), increasing the Th1 cells and Tregs in Peyer’s patch (PP) nodes and MLNs, and inhibiting the Th2 cells. Compared with soy protein, enzyme-cross-linked tofu had less damage to the small intestinal tract of mice. Therefore, the above-mentioned results fully revealed that the enzyme-cross-linked tofu promoted the transformation of intestinal mucosal immune cells, shifted the Th1/Th2 balance toward Th1, and reduced its sensitization effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Proteins: Nutritional Properties, Allergenicity, and Functional Properties)

► Show Figures