The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
13 pages, 639 KiB  
Article
The Relationship between Addictive Use of Short-Video Platforms and Marital Satisfaction in Older Chinese Couples: An Asymmetrical Dyadic Process
by Jinsong Deng, Menmen Wang, Weiqi Mu, Siying Li, Ninghao Zhu, Xiong Luo, Lan Yi, Yahan Wu, Kexin Wang and Mingjie Zhou
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050364 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that the addictive use of social media can have a detrimental effect on marital satisfaction, due mainly to the decrease in time and focus given to one’s spouse. However, the impact of social media use among older couples remains under-investigated, [...] Read more.
Increasing evidence indicates that the addictive use of social media can have a detrimental effect on marital satisfaction, due mainly to the decrease in time and focus given to one’s spouse. However, the impact of social media use among older couples remains under-investigated, and the research that does exist relies on individual-level data that do not allow the exploration of the dynamics between the dyadic partners. Therefore, the present study focused on older adults’ use of short-video platforms, as these have been shown to be particularly addictive for older adults. A sample of 264 older couples was gathered (mean age = 68.02, SD = 8.68), and both spouses completed surveys reporting addictive use of short-video platforms, negative emotions, and marital satisfaction. Using an actor–partner interdependence model, we found an asymmetrical dyadic process in that the addictive use of short-video platforms by the wives was not only related to their own negative emotions, but also those of their spouse, as well as to decreased marital satisfaction. Meanwhile, addictive use by the husbands seemed to relate only to their own increased negative emotions, as well as to decreased marital satisfaction. Together, the findings from this study reveal dyadic dynamics with delineated pathways through which the addictive use of short-video platforms can damage older couples’ interactive processes and marital satisfaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)
14 pages, 8050 KiB  
Article
Soft Robotic Bilateral Rehabilitation System for Hand and Wrist Joints
by Tanguy Ridremont, Inderjeet Singh, Baptiste Bruzek, Veysel Erel, Alexandra Jamieson, Yixin Gu, Rochdi Merzouki and Muthu B. J. Wijesundara
Machines 2024, 12(5), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12050288 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Upper limb functionality is essential to perform activities of daily living. It is critical to investigate neurorehabilitation therapies in order to improve upper limb functionality in post-stroke patients. This paper presents a soft-robotic bilateral system to provide rehabilitation therapy for hand and wrist [...] Read more.
Upper limb functionality is essential to perform activities of daily living. It is critical to investigate neurorehabilitation therapies in order to improve upper limb functionality in post-stroke patients. This paper presents a soft-robotic bilateral system to provide rehabilitation therapy for hand and wrist joints. A sensorized glove that tracks finger and wrist joint movements is worn on the healthy limb, which guides the movement of the paretic limb. The input of sensors from the healthy limb is provided to the soft robotic exoskeleton attached to the paretic limb to mimic the motion. A proportional derivative flow-based control algorithm is used to perform bilateral therapy. To test the feasibility of the developed system, two different applications are performed experimentally: (1) Wrist exercise with a dumbbell, and (2) Object pick-and-place task. The initial tests of the developed system verified its capability to perform bilateral therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design Methodology for Soft Mechanisms, Machines, and Robots)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 813 KiB  
Article
The Impact of AI-Based Course-Recommender System on Students’ Course-Selection Decision-Making Process
by Seungeon Cha, Martin Loeser and Kyoungwon Seo
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3672; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093672 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The course-recommender system (CRS), designed to aid students’ course-selection decision-making process by suggesting courses aligned with their interests and grades, plays a crucial role in fulfilling curricular requirements, enhancing career opportunities, and fostering intellectual growth. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have empowered [...] Read more.
The course-recommender system (CRS), designed to aid students’ course-selection decision-making process by suggesting courses aligned with their interests and grades, plays a crucial role in fulfilling curricular requirements, enhancing career opportunities, and fostering intellectual growth. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have empowered CRSs to deliver personalized recommendations by considering individual contexts. However, the impact of AI-based CRS on students’ course-selection decision-making process (inter alia, search and evaluation phases) is an open question. Understanding student perceptions and expectations of AI-based CRSs is key to optimizing their decision-making process in course selection. For this purpose, we employed speed dating with storyboards to gather insights from 24 students on five different types of AI-based CRS. The results revealed that students expected AI-based CRSs to play an assistive role in the search phase, helping them efficiently complete time-consuming search tasks in less time. Conversely, during the evaluation phase, students expected AI-based CRSs to play a leading role as a benchmark to address their uncertainty about course suitability, learning value, and serendipity. These findings underscore the adaptive nature of AI-based CRSs, which adjust according to the intricacies of students’ course-selection decision-making process, fostering fruitful collaboration between students and AI. Full article
18 pages, 1144 KiB  
Article
Global Health Priority Box: Discovering Flucofuron as a Promising Antikinetoplastid Compound
by Carlos J. Bethencourt-Estrella, Atteneri López-Arencibia, Jacob Lorenzo-Morales and José E. Piñero
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050554 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, produced by Leishmania spp., and Chagas disease, produced by Trypanosoma cruzi, affect millions of people around the world. The treatments for these pathologies are not entirely effective and produce some side effects. For these reasons, it is necessary to develop new [...] Read more.
Leishmaniasis, produced by Leishmania spp., and Chagas disease, produced by Trypanosoma cruzi, affect millions of people around the world. The treatments for these pathologies are not entirely effective and produce some side effects. For these reasons, it is necessary to develop new therapies that are more active and less toxic for patients. Some initiatives, such as the one carried out by the Medicines for Malaria Venture, allow for the screening of a large number of compounds of different origins to find alternatives to the lack of trypanocide treatments. In this work, 240 compounds were tested from the Global Health Priority Box (80 compounds with confirmed activity against drug-resistant malaria, 80 compounds for screening against neglected and zoonotic diseases and diseases at risk of drug resistance, and 80 compounds with activity against various vector species) against Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania amazonensis. Flucofuron, a compound with activity against vectors and with previous activity reported against Staphylococcus spp. and Schistosoma spp., demonstrates activity against L. amazonensis and T. cruzi and produces programmed cell death in the parasites. Flucofuron seems to be a good candidate for continuing study and proving its use as a trypanocidal agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antiparasitics 2023)
24 pages, 4308 KiB  
Article
Greedy Weighted Stacking of Machine Learning Models for Optimizing Dam Deformation Prediction
by Patricia Alocén, Miguel Á. Fernández-Centeno and Miguel Á. Toledo
Water 2024, 16(9), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16091235 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Dam safety monitoring is critical due to its social, environmental, and economic implications. Although conventional statistical approaches have been used for surveillance, advancements in technology, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), offer promising avenues for enhancing predictive capabilities. We investigate [...] Read more.
Dam safety monitoring is critical due to its social, environmental, and economic implications. Although conventional statistical approaches have been used for surveillance, advancements in technology, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), offer promising avenues for enhancing predictive capabilities. We investigate the application of ML algorithms, including Boosted Regression Trees (BRT), Random Forest (RF), and Neural Networks (NN), focussing on their combination by Stacking to improve prediction accuracy on concrete dam deformation using radial displacement data from three dams. The methodology involves training first-level models (experts) using those algorithms, and a second-level meta-learner that combines their predictions using BRT, a Linear Model (LM) and the Greedy Weighted Algorithm (GWA). A comparative analysis demonstrates the superiority of Stacking over traditional methods. The GWA emerged as the most suitable meta-learner, enhancing the optimal expert in all cases, with improvement rates reaching up to 16.12% over the optimal expert. Our study addresses critical questions regarding the GWA’s expert weighting and its impact on prediction precision. The results indicate that the combination of accurate experts using the GWA improves model reliability by reducing error dispersion. However, variations in optimal weights over time necessitate robust error estimation using cross-validation by blocks. Furthermore, the assignment of weights to experts closely correlates with their precision: the more accurate a model is, the more weight that is assigned to it. The GWA improves on the optimal expert in most cases, including at extreme values of error, with improvement rates up to 41.74%. Our findings suggest that the proposed methodology significantly advances AI applications in infrastructure monitoring, with implications for dam safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safety Evaluation of Dam and Geotechnical Engineering, Volume II)
16 pages, 1634 KiB  
Article
Chalkophomycin Biosynthesis Revealing Unique Enzyme Architecture for a Hybrid Nonribosomal Peptide Synthetase and Polyketide Synthase
by Long Yang, Liwei Yi, Bang Gong, Lili Chen, Miao Li, Xiangcheng Zhu, Yanwen Duan and Yong Huang
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 1982; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29091982 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Chalkophomycin is a novel chalkophore with antibiotic activities isolated from Streptomyces sp. CB00271, while its potential in studying cellular copper homeostasis makes it an important probe and drug lead. The constellation of N-hydroxylpyrrole, 2H-oxazoline, diazeniumdiolate, and methoxypyrrolinone functional groups into [...] Read more.
Chalkophomycin is a novel chalkophore with antibiotic activities isolated from Streptomyces sp. CB00271, while its potential in studying cellular copper homeostasis makes it an important probe and drug lead. The constellation of N-hydroxylpyrrole, 2H-oxazoline, diazeniumdiolate, and methoxypyrrolinone functional groups into one compact molecular architecture capable of coordinating cupric ions draws interest to unprecedented enzymology responsible for chalkophomycin biosynthesis. To elucidate the biosynthetic machinery for chalkophomycin production, the chm biosynthetic gene cluster from S. sp. CB00271 was identified, and its involvement in chalkophomycin biosynthesis was confirmed by gene replacement. The chm cluster was localized to a ~31 kb DNA region, consisting of 19 open reading frames that encode five nonribosomal peptide synthetases (ChmHIJLO), one modular polyketide synthase (ChmP), six tailoring enzymes (ChmFGMNQR), two regulatory proteins (ChmAB), and four resistance proteins (ChmA′CDE). A model for chalkophomycin biosynthesis is proposed based on functional assignments from sequence analysis and structure modelling, and is further supported by analogy to over 100 chm-type gene clusters in public databases. Our studies thus set the stage to fully investigate chalkophomycin biosynthesis and to engineer chalkophomycin analogues through a synthetic biology approach. Full article
29 pages, 3780 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Surveillance Vision with Multi-Layer Deep Learning Representation
by Dong-Min Son and Sung-Hak Lee
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1313; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091313 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper aimed to develop a method for generating sand–dust removal and dehazed images utilizing CycleGAN, facilitating object identification on roads under adverse weather conditions such as heavy dust or haze, which severely impair visibility. Initially, the study addressed the scarcity of paired [...] Read more.
This paper aimed to develop a method for generating sand–dust removal and dehazed images utilizing CycleGAN, facilitating object identification on roads under adverse weather conditions such as heavy dust or haze, which severely impair visibility. Initially, the study addressed the scarcity of paired image sets for training by employing unpaired CycleGAN training. The CycleGAN training module incorporates hierarchical single-scale Retinex (SSR) images with varying sigma sizes, facilitating multiple-scaled trainings. Refining the training data into detailed hierarchical layers for virtual paired training enhances the performance of CycleGAN training. Conventional sand–dust removal or dehazing algorithms, alongside deep learning methods, encounter challenges in simultaneously addressing sand–dust removal and dehazing with a singular algorithm. Such algorithms often necessitate resetting hyperparameters to process images from both scenarios. To overcome this limitation, we proposed a unified approach for removing sand–dust and haze phenomena using a single model, leveraging images processed hierarchically with SSR. The image quality and image sharpness metrics of the proposed method were BRIQUE, PIQE, CEIQ, MCMA, LPC-SI, and S3. In sand–dust environments, the proposed method achieved the highest scores, with an average of 21.52 in BRISQUE, 0.724 in MCMA, and 0.968 in LPC-SI compared to conventional methods. For haze images, the proposed method outperformed conventional methods with an average of 3.458 in CEIQ, 0.967 in LPC-SI, and 0.243 in S3. The images generated via this proposed method demonstrated superior performance in image quality and sharpness evaluation compared to conventional algorithms. The outcomes of this study hold particular relevance for camera images utilized in automobiles, especially in the context of self-driving cars or CCTV surveillance systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances and Applications in Image Processing and Computer Vision)
18 pages, 9427 KiB  
Article
The Investigation of Various Flange Gaps on Wind Turbine Tower Bolt Fatigue Using Finite-Element Method
by Mingxing Liu, Rongrong Geng, Jiaqing Wang, Yong Li, Kai Long, Wenjie Ding and Yiming Zhou
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3670; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093670 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Upon careful examination, numerous wind turbine collapses can be attributed to the failure of the tower bolts. Nowadays, the Schmidt–Neuper algorithm is extensively accepted in wind turbine tower bolt design. It is not advisable to utilize the finite-element method, notwithstanding the effect of [...] Read more.
Upon careful examination, numerous wind turbine collapses can be attributed to the failure of the tower bolts. Nowadays, the Schmidt–Neuper algorithm is extensively accepted in wind turbine tower bolt design. It is not advisable to utilize the finite-element method, notwithstanding the effect of the flange gap. To quantitatively investigate the influence of flange gaps on bolt fatigue, a nonlinear finite-element model of a flange segment incorporating bolt pretension and contact elements is herein proposed. Three distinct types of flange gaps are defined intentionally. It is possible to determine the nonlinear relationship between the wall load and bolt internal force. The fatigue damage of bolts was thus computed using the obtained nonlinear curve. Comparing with the results with those of Schmidt–Neuper method revealed the bolt fatigue damage is susceptible to a specified flange gap. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 5335 KiB  
Article
Deep Learning Based Fall Recognition and Forecasting for Reconfigurable Stair-Accessing Service Robots
by Jun Hua Ong, Abdullah Aamir Hayat, Braulio Felix Gomez, Mohan Rajesh Elara and Kristin Lee Wood
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1312; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091312 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive study on fall recognition and forecasting for reconfigurable stair-accessing robots by leveraging deep learning techniques. The proposed framework integrates machine learning algorithms and recurrent neural networks (RNNs), specifically Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Bidirectional LSTM (BiLSTM), for fall [...] Read more.
This paper presents a comprehensive study on fall recognition and forecasting for reconfigurable stair-accessing robots by leveraging deep learning techniques. The proposed framework integrates machine learning algorithms and recurrent neural networks (RNNs), specifically Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Bidirectional LSTM (BiLSTM), for fall detection of service robots on staircases. The reconfigurable stair-accessing robot sTetro serves as the platform, and the fall data required for training models are generated in a simulation environment. The two machine learning algorithms are compared and their effectiveness on the fall recognition task is reported. The results indicate that the BiLSTM model effectively classifies falls with a median categorical accuracy of 94.10% in simulation and 90.02% with limited experiments. Additionally, the BiLSTM model can be used for forecasting, which is practically valuable for making decisions well before the onset of a free fall. This study contributes insights into the design and implementation of fall detection systems for service robots used to navigate staircases through deep learning approaches. Our experimental and simulation data, along with the simulation steps, are available for reference and analysis via the shared link. Full article
25 pages, 6449 KiB  
Article
Multi-Omics of Campylobacter jejuni Growth in Chicken Exudate Reveals Molecular Remodelling Associated with Altered Virulence and Survival Phenotypes
by Lok Man, Pamela X. Y. Soh, Tess E. McEnearney, Joel A. Cain, Ashleigh L. Dale and Stuart J. Cordwell
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050860 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Campylobacter jejuni is the leading cause of foodborne human gastroenteritis in the developed world. Infections are largely acquired from poultry produced for human consumption and poor food handling is thus a major risk factor. Chicken exudate (CE) is a liquid produced from defrosted [...] Read more.
Campylobacter jejuni is the leading cause of foodborne human gastroenteritis in the developed world. Infections are largely acquired from poultry produced for human consumption and poor food handling is thus a major risk factor. Chicken exudate (CE) is a liquid produced from defrosted commercial chicken products that facilitates C. jejuni growth. We examined the response of C. jejuni to growth in CE using a multi-omics approach. Changes in the C. jejuni proteome were assessed by label-based liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). We quantified 1328 and 1304 proteins, respectively, in experiments comparing 5% CE in Mueller–Hinton (MH) medium and 100% CE with MH-only controls. These proteins represent 81.8% and 80.3% of the predicted C. jejuni NCTC11168 proteome. Growth in CE induced profound remodelling of the proteome. These changes were typically conserved between 5% and 100% CE, with a greater magnitude of change observed in 100% CE. We confirmed that CE induced C. jejuni biofilm formation, as well as increasing motility and resistance against oxidative stress, consistent with changes to proteins representing those functions. Assessment of the C. jejuni metabolome showed CE also led to increased intracellular abundances of serine, proline, and lactate that were correlated with the elevated abundances of their respective transporters. Analysis of carbon source uptake showed prolonged culture supernatant retention of proline and succinate in CE-supplemented medium. Metabolomics data provided preliminary evidence for the uptake of chicken-meat-associated dipeptides. C. jejuni exposed to CE showed increased resistance to several antibiotics, including polymyxin B, consistent with changes to tripartite efflux system proteins and those involved in the synthesis of lipid A. The C. jejuni CE proteome was also characterised by very large increases in proteins associated with iron acquisition, while a decrease in proteins containing iron–sulphur clusters was also observed. Our data suggest CE is both oxygen- and iron-limiting and provide evidence of factors required for phenotypic remodelling to enable C. jejuni survival on poultry products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Foodborne Bacteria–Host Interactions 2.0)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 293 KiB  
Article
Differential Risk: Gender and Racial Differences in the Relationship between Trauma, Discrimination, and Schizotypy
by Mahogany A. Monette, Madisen T. Russell, Danielle B. Abel, Jarrett T. Lewis, Jessica L. Mickens, Evan J. Myers, Megan M. Hricovec, David C. Cicero, J. Wolny, William P. Hetrick, Michael D. Masucci, Alex S. Cohen, Christopher J. Burgin, Thomas R. Kwapil and Kyle S. Minor
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050363 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Traumatic experiences are associated with increased experiences of positive schizotypy. This may be especially important for People of Color, who experience higher rates of trauma and racial discrimination. No study to date has examined how racial disparities in traumatic experiences may impact schizotypy. [...] Read more.
Traumatic experiences are associated with increased experiences of positive schizotypy. This may be especially important for People of Color, who experience higher rates of trauma and racial discrimination. No study to date has examined how racial disparities in traumatic experiences may impact schizotypy. Furthermore, of the studies that have examined the relationship between trauma and schizotypy, none have examined racial discrimination as a potential moderator. The present study examined if racial discrimination moderates the relationship between trauma and multidimensional (positive, negative, and disorganized) schizotypy. In a sample of 770 college students, we conducted chi-squared analyses, analyses of variance, and stepwise regressions. We found that Black students experienced significantly higher racial discrimination and trauma than Latinx and Asian students. Furthermore, Black and Latinx students experienced significantly more multidimensional schizotypy items than Asian students. Trauma and racial discrimination explained 8 to 23% of the variance in each dimension of schizotypy. Racial discrimination did not moderate the relationships between trauma and multidimensional schizotypy. Our findings suggest that we need to examine risk factors that may prevent recovery from psychotic disorders. Additionally, disorganized schizotypy showed the most robust associations and may be a critical site of intervention. Full article
10 pages, 566 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Choriocapillaris Reperfusion Topography Following Faricimab Treatment for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Non-Treatment-Naïve patients
by Max Brinkmann, Pasquale Viggiano, Giacomo Boscia, Mathis Danckwardt, Evelyn Susantija, Tom Müller, Niccolò Castellino, Jakob Schweighofer, Francesco Boscia, Mario Damiano Toro and Yosuf El-Shabrawi
Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 901; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090901 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
To assess changes in choriocapillaris (CC) vascular density surrounding macular neovascularization (MNV) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) when transitioning from various anti-VEGF treatments to faricimab, using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). 25 eyes of 22 individuals who underwent intravitreal faricimab injections for neovascular [...] Read more.
To assess changes in choriocapillaris (CC) vascular density surrounding macular neovascularization (MNV) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) when transitioning from various anti-VEGF treatments to faricimab, using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). 25 eyes of 22 individuals who underwent intravitreal faricimab injections for neovascular AMD with type 1 MNV were included. OCTA images were obtained prior to (T0), after one (T1), and after three faricimab injections (T2); Noteworthy changes occurred in the first ring at T2 in comparison to T0. The percentage of CC flow deficit (FD%), FD average area (FDa), and FD number (FDn) in 5 rings (R1-R5) surrounding the dark halo around the MNV were calculated. A reduction in FD% at T2 compared to T0 (50.5 ± 10.2% at T0, 46.4 ± 10.6% at T2; p = 0.020) was seen, indicating CC reperfusion. Additionally, we observed a reduction in the average FDa (140.2 ± 172.1% at T0, 93.7 ± 101.8% at T2; p = 0.029). Our study highlights an FD% after three consecutive faricimab injections. The most pronounced effect was observed in the first ring, directly adjacent to the dark halo, suggesting a partial CC reperfusion surrounding the MNV, potentially indicating disease regression. Full article
12 pages, 1851 KiB  
Article
Characterizing Lossy Dielectric Materials in Shock Physics by Millimeter-Wave Interferometry Using One-Dimensional Convolutional Neural Networks and Nonlinear Optimization
by Ngoc Tuan Pham, Alexandre Lefrançois and Hervé Aubert
Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091664 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
When a dielectric material undergoes mechanical impact, it generates a shock wave, causing changes in its refractive index. Recent demonstrations have proven that the modified refractive index can be determined remotely using a millimeter-wave interferometer. However, these demonstrations are based on the resolution [...] Read more.
When a dielectric material undergoes mechanical impact, it generates a shock wave, causing changes in its refractive index. Recent demonstrations have proven that the modified refractive index can be determined remotely using a millimeter-wave interferometer. However, these demonstrations are based on the resolution of an inverse electromagnetic problem, which assumes that the losses in the material are negligible. This restrictive assumption is overcome in this article, in which a new approach is proposed to solve the inverse electromagnetic problem in lossy and shocked dielectric materials. Our methodology combines a one-dimensional convolutional neural network architecture, namely Inverse problem of Lossless or Lossy Shocked Wavefront Network (ILSW-Net), with a nonlinear optimization technique based on the Nelder–Mead algorithm to estimate losses within dielectric materials under a mechanical impact. Experimental results for both simulated and real signals show that our method can successfully predict the velocities and the refractive index while accurately estimating the shock wavefront. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Computational Intelligence in Remote Sensing: 2nd Edition)
20 pages, 976 KiB  
Review
Synergistic Effects of Weight Loss and Catheter Ablation: Can microRNAs Serve as Predictive Biomarkers for the Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence?
by Carola Y. Förster, Stephan R. Künzel, Sergey Shityakov and Stavros Stavrakis
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4689; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094689 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
In atrial fibrillation (AF), multifactorial pathologic atrial alterations are manifested by structural and electrophysiological changes known as atrial remodeling. AF frequently develops in the context of underlying cardiac abnormalities. A critical mechanistic role played by atrial stretch is played by abnormal substrates in [...] Read more.
In atrial fibrillation (AF), multifactorial pathologic atrial alterations are manifested by structural and electrophysiological changes known as atrial remodeling. AF frequently develops in the context of underlying cardiac abnormalities. A critical mechanistic role played by atrial stretch is played by abnormal substrates in a number of conditions that predispose to AF, including obesity, heart failure, hypertension, and sleep apnea. The significant role of overweight and obesity in the development of AF is known; however, the differential effect of overweight, obesity, cardiovascular comorbidities, lifestyle, and other modifiable risk factors on the occurrence and recurrence of AF remains to be determined. Reverse remodeling of the atrial substrate and subsequent reduction in the AF burden by conversion into a typical sinus rhythm has been associated with weight loss through lifestyle changes or surgery. This makes it an essential pillar in the management of AF in obese patients. According to recently published research, microRNAs (miRs) may function as post-transcriptional regulators of genes involved in atrial remodeling, potentially contributing to the pathophysiology of AF. The focus of this review is on their modulation by both weight loss and catheter ablation interventions to counteract atrial remodeling in AF. Our analysis outlines the experimental and clinical evidence supporting the synergistic effects of weight loss and catheter ablation (CA) in reversing atrial electrical and structural remodeling in AF onset and in recurrent post-ablation AF by attenuating pro-thrombotic, pro-inflammatory, pro-fibrotic, arrhythmogenic, and male-sex-associated hypertrophic remodeling pathways. Furthermore, we discuss the promising role of miRs with prognostic potential as predictive biomarkers in guiding approaches to AF recurrence prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Research for Heart Disease Biology and Therapeutics)
16 pages, 290 KiB  
Article
Pinching Results for Doubly Warped Products’ Pointwise Bi-Slant Submanifolds in Locally Conformal Almost Cosymplectic Manifolds with a Quarter-Symmetric Connection
by Md Aquib, Ibrahim Al-Dayel, Mohd Aslam, Meraj Ali Khan and Mohammad Shuaib
Symmetry 2024, 16(5), 521; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16050521 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this research paper, we establish geometric inequalities that characterize the relationship between the squared mean curvature and the warping functions of a doubly warped product pointwise bi-slant submanifold. Our investigation takes place in the context of locally conformal almost cosymplectic manifolds, which [...] Read more.
In this research paper, we establish geometric inequalities that characterize the relationship between the squared mean curvature and the warping functions of a doubly warped product pointwise bi-slant submanifold. Our investigation takes place in the context of locally conformal almost cosymplectic manifolds, which are equipped with a quarter-symmetric metric connection. We also consider the cases of equality in these inequalities. Additionally, we derive some geometric applications of our obtained results. Full article
18 pages, 349 KiB  
Article
Constrained State Regulation Problem of Descriptor Fractional-Order Linear Continuous-Time Systems
by Hongli Yang, Xindong Si and Ivan G. Ivanov
Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(5), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8050255 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper deals with the constrained state regulation problem (CSRP) of descriptor fractional-order linear continuous-time systems (DFOLCS) with order 0<α<1. The objective is to establish the existence of conditions for a linear feedback control law within state constraints [...] Read more.
This paper deals with the constrained state regulation problem (CSRP) of descriptor fractional-order linear continuous-time systems (DFOLCS) with order 0<α<1. The objective is to establish the existence of conditions for a linear feedback control law within state constraints and to propose a method for solving the CSRP of DFOLCS. First, based on the decomposition and separation method and coordinate transformation, the DFOLCS can be transformed into an equivalent fractional-order reduced system; hence, the CSRP of the DFOLCS is equivalent to the CSRP of the reduced system. By means of positive invariant sets theory, Lyapunov stability theory, and some mathematical techniques, necessary and sufficient conditions for the polyhedral positive invariant set of the equivalent reduced system are presented. Models and corresponding algorithms for solving the CSRP of a linear feedback controller are also presented by the obtained conditions. Under the condition that the resulting closed system is positive, the given model of the CSRP in this paper for the DFOLCS is formulated as nonlinear programming with a linear objective function and quadratic mixed constraints. Two numerical examples illustrate the proposed method. Full article
15 pages, 645 KiB  
Review
Silicone Nanocomposites with Enhanced Thermal Resistance: A Short Review
by Maria Zielecka and Anna Rabajczyk
Materials 2024, 17(9), 2016; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17092016 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Continuous technological progress places significant demands on the materials used in increasingly modern devices. An important parameter is often the long-term thermal resistance of the material. The use of heat-resistant polymer materials worked well in technologically advanced products. An economically justified direction in [...] Read more.
Continuous technological progress places significant demands on the materials used in increasingly modern devices. An important parameter is often the long-term thermal resistance of the material. The use of heat-resistant polymer materials worked well in technologically advanced products. An economically justified direction in searching for new materials is the area of polymer nanocomposite materials. It is necessary to appropriately select both the polymer matrix and the nanofillers best able to demonstrate the synergistic effect. A promising area of exploration for such nanocomposites is the use of organosilicon polymers, which results from the unique properties of these polymers related to their structure. This review presents the results of the analysis of the most important literature reports regarding organosilicon polymer nanocomposites with increased thermal resistance. Particular attention was paid to modification methods of silicone nanocomposites, focusing on increasing their thermal resistance related to the modification of siloxane molecular structure and by making nanocomposites using inorganic additives and carbon nanomaterials. Attention was also paid to such important issues as the influence of the dispersion of additives in the polymer matrix on the thermal resistance of silicone nanocomposites and the possibility of modifying the polymer matrix and permanently introducing nanofillers thanks to the presence of various reactive groups. The thermal stability mechanism of these nanocomposites was also analysed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)
17 pages, 1771 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Inter- and Intraspecific P Efficiency in Forage Legumes as Affected by Recycling Fertiliser
by Yue Hu, Klaus J. Dehmer, Evelin Willner, Veysel Turan and Bettina Eichler-Löbermann
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 901; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050901 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Legumes have a high demand for phosphorus (P) due to energetically costly biological nitrogen fixation, but they also have effective physiological and morphological strategies for P mobilization. To evaluate the inter- and intraspecific P efficiency of small-grain legumes supplied with different P recycling [...] Read more.
Legumes have a high demand for phosphorus (P) due to energetically costly biological nitrogen fixation, but they also have effective physiological and morphological strategies for P mobilization. To evaluate the inter- and intraspecific P efficiency of small-grain legumes supplied with different P recycling fertilisers, eight accessions each of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) were cultivated in two pot experiments under greenhouse conditions until the flowering stage. To substantiate the results, some accessions were used in both experiments. Five treatments (no P, triple-superphosphate (TSP), sewage sludge ash (SSA), biowaste compost (compost), and struvite) were considered P sources. In addition to plant P uptake, the soil P pools were analysed in detail. Red clover showed higher yields and nutrient uptakes compared to alfalfa, but intraspecific effects were marginal. The addition of P resulted only partly in an increase in yield, despite the low P content in the soil. While struvite application clearly enhanced the P uptake of the plants in both experiments, SSA application had no effect compared to the control. The same treatment effect occurs with the bio-available soil P contents, which were on average 72.6 mg kg−1 after struvite and 44.3 mg kg−1 after SSA addition. Struvite as a P source was especially effective when applied to red clover. Our study aligns with previous field results and underscores the high potential of P mobilization of small-grain legumes without pronounced inter- or intraspecific differences. While struvite is suitable as a P fertiliser, the application of SSA to legumes is not recommended. Full article
22 pages, 1734 KiB  
Review
The Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet on Inflamm-Aging in Childhood Obesity
by Valeria Calcaterra, Elvira Verduci, Chiara Milanta, Marta Agostinelli, Federica Bona, Stefania Croce, Chiara Valsecchi, Maria Antonietta Avanzini and Gianvincenzo Zuccotti
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1286; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091286 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Numerous elements of the Mediterranean diet (MD) have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. (2) Methods: We present a narrative review of the potential benefits of the Mediterranean dietary pattern (MD) in mitigating aging-related inflammation (inflamm-aging) associated with childhood obesity. The mechanisms underlying [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Numerous elements of the Mediterranean diet (MD) have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. (2) Methods: We present a narrative review of the potential benefits of the Mediterranean dietary pattern (MD) in mitigating aging-related inflammation (inflamm-aging) associated with childhood obesity. The mechanisms underlying chronic inflammation in obesity are also discussed. A total of 130 papers were included after screening abstracts and full texts. (3) Results: A complex interplay between obesity, chronic inflammation, and related comorbidities is documented. The MD emerges as a promising dietary pattern for mitigating inflammation. Studies suggest that the MD may contribute to weight control, improved lipid profiles, insulin sensitivity, and endothelial function, thereby reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents with obesity. (4) Conclusions: While evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory effects of the MD in pediatric obesity is still evolving, the existing literature underscores its potential as a preventive and therapeutic strategy. However, MD adherence remains low among children and adolescents, necessitating targeted interventions to promote healthier dietary habits. Future high-quality intervention studies are necessary to elucidate the specific impact of the MD on inflammation in diverse pediatric populations with obesity and associated comorbidities. Full article
10 pages, 594 KiB  
Article
Study on the Fabrication and Acoustic Properties of Near-Stoichiometric Lithium Tantalate Crystal Surface Acoustic Wave Filters
by Jiashun Si, Xuefeng Xiao, Yan Huang, Yan Zhang, Shuaijie Liang, Qingyan Xu, Huan Zhang, Lingling Ma, Cui Yang and Xuefeng Zhang
Crystals 2024, 14(5), 400; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14050400 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Near-stoichiometric lithium tantalate (NSLT) wafers with different Li contents were prepared by vapour transfer equilibrium (VTE) method and fabricated into surface acoustic wave filters. The temperature coefficient of frequency, insertion loss, and bandwidth of the surface acoustic wave filters were tested using a [...] Read more.
Near-stoichiometric lithium tantalate (NSLT) wafers with different Li contents were prepared by vapour transfer equilibrium (VTE) method and fabricated into surface acoustic wave filters. The temperature coefficient of frequency, insertion loss, and bandwidth of the surface acoustic wave filters were tested using a special chip test bench and a network analyzer. The results show that the temperature coefficient of frequency shows a trend of first decreasing and then increasing with the increase in Li content, and the temperature stability of the surface acoustic wave filters is best when the Li content is 49.75%. It is also found that the surface acoustic wave filter fabricated from NSLT wafers has 21.18% lower temperature coefficient of frequency, 7.3% lower insertion loss, and 2.8% lower bandwidth than those fabricated from congruent lithium tantalate wafers. Therefore, NSLT crystals are more suitable for applications in acoustic devices, providing a new idea for performance enhancement of 5G communication devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Crystalline Materials)
11 pages, 536 KiB  
Article
Prognostic Value of KRAS Mutations in Relation to PDL1 Expression and Immunotherapy Treatment in Adenocarcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients: A Greek Cohort Study
by Theodora Tsiouda, Kalliopi Domvri, Efimia Boutsikou, Vasileios Bikos, Krystallia Kyrka, Konstantina Papadaki, Persefoni Pezirkianidou, Konstantinos Porpodis and Angeliki Cheva
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(5), 457; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14050457 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Factors that could predict which patients will benefit from Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs) are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of KRAS biomarker in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in relation to clinical characteristics, [...] Read more.
Background: Factors that could predict which patients will benefit from Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs) are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of KRAS biomarker in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in relation to clinical characteristics, treatment response and PDL1 expression. Patients and methods: The study included 100 patients with NSCLC who received immunotherapy with or without chemotherapy as 1st line treatment. In biopsy samples, the PDL1 biomarker expression rate and somatic mutations of KRAS gene were determined. Results: The mean age of the patients was 67 ± 8 years. Patients were all male and 66% were found with adenocarcinoma whereas 34% with squamous cell carcinoma. The KRAS G12C mutation was found with the highest percentage (73%). In the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, patients with PDL1 > 49% in combination with a negative KRAS result had a median overall survival of 40 months compared to patients with a positive KRAS result (9 months, p < 0.05). In addition, patients diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, PDL1 < 49% and negative KRAS result had a median overall survival of 39 months compared to patients with a positive result (28 months, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our study suggests that the presence of KRAS mutations in advanced NSCLC patients has a poor prognostic value, regardless of their PDL1 expression values, after receiving immunotherapy as first-line treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Disease Biomarker)
12 pages, 5840 KiB  
Article
An Experimental Study on the Distribution of Grease in Cylindrical Roller Bearings
by He Liang, Yan Lu, Wenzhong Wang, Yi Sun, Jingjing Zhao and Yulong Guo
Lubricants 2024, 12(5), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants12050145 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The lubrication performance of bearings is greatly influenced by the distribution of the lubricant. In this study, a cylindrical rolling bearing test rig was constructed and presented. The distribution of grease and lubricating oil along the contact region was examined using the laser-induced [...] Read more.
The lubrication performance of bearings is greatly influenced by the distribution of the lubricant. In this study, a cylindrical rolling bearing test rig was constructed and presented. The distribution of grease and lubricating oil along the contact region was examined using the laser-induced fluorescence technique, and the thickness of the layer was determined. The lubricating oil and grease layer thickness distribution map was acquired. The effects of supply amount, thickener content, and speed on grease distribution were examined. Mechanisms for replenishing the line contact area were investigated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tribological Study in Rolling Bearing)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 718 KiB  
Article
Self-Perceived Stress in Association with Emotional Experiences following Patient Death and Coping Adequacy among Clinical Nurses in Lithuania: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Marius Baranauskas, Marius Kalpokas, Ingrida Kupčiūnaitė, Jurgita Lieponienė and Rimantas Stukas
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2533; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092533 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Stress is defined as a psychological sensation related to a change in both human physiology and behavior in response to a threat or challenge. As the prevalence of stress is increasing globally, nurses represent a risk group for exposure to stress-related [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Stress is defined as a psychological sensation related to a change in both human physiology and behavior in response to a threat or challenge. As the prevalence of stress is increasing globally, nurses represent a risk group for exposure to stress-related psychological alterations. The aim of this study was to explore how clinical nurses in Lithuania cope with the perceived chronic stress in relation to additional emotional experiences following the death of a patient. (2) Methods: During a four-week period of October 2023, a total of 283 female nurses, aged between 20 and 70 years old, were enrolled in a single cross-sectional study. The PSS-10 (perceived stress scale) and the Brief-COPE (Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced) questionnaires were applied to assess the level of self-perceived stress and the use of coping styles along with the adequate strategies. Furthermore, the nurses’ emotions, evoked following patient death, were classified depending on their valence. Both the multiple linear and logistic regression statistical analyses were conducted to examine the associations between dependent and independent variables. (3) Results: The study identified that more than half of the nurses experienced patient death several times a month. A moderate-to-high level of the symptoms of mental chronic stress were suffered by 76% of caregivers. The psychological arousal following the death of a patient may induce the occurrence of emotional complexity that refers to competitive feelings, namely, helplessness (adjusted odd ratio (AOR) 1.7, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.1; 2.9), disappointment (AOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1; 3.5), anxiety (AOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2; 4.2), and guilt (ORadj 4.7, 95% CI 1.4; 5.7), and can serve as a potential trigger for chronic stress development in clinical nurses. In terms of emotion-focused stress control (β 0.1, 95% CI −0.1; −0.2, R2 = 0.12), Lithuanian nurses had low control of the perceived chronic stress. The use of problem-focused coping (β −0.2, 95% CI −0.3; −0.1, R2 = 0.09) was also not addressed to an appropriate extent. The use of the avoidance coping style was associated with moderate–high levels of chronic stress perceived by nurses (β 0.5, 95% CI 0.4; 0.7, R2 = 0.24). Furthermore, the avoidant coping strategy related to behavioral disengagement was significantly related to resilience to chronic stress in an adverse way. The cognitive process of self-blame was considered as a meaningful maladaptive behavior component for magnifying chronic stress in nurses. (4) Conclusions: The study highlights the need to implement the recommendations for boosting the nurses’ mental health. Hospitals should contribute to psychological assistance along with providing necessary training on stress-coping strategies for clinical nurses. In order to promote the sustainability of mental health through additional social support interventions, it would be useful to upgrade the clinical nurses’ daily routines with mindfulness-based trainings. Full article

Open Access Journals

Browse by Indexing Browse by Subject Selected Journals
Back to TopTop