The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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25 pages, 2296 KiB  
Article
Cage-Free Pullets Minimally Affected by Stocking Density Stressors
by Meagan E. Abraham, Cara I. Robison, Priscila B. S. Serpa, Natalia J. Strandberg, Marisa A. Erasmus, Gregory S. Fraley, Gisela F. Erf and Darrin M. Karcher
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1513; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101513 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Management choices during the pullet phase can affect behavior, welfare, and health later in life, but few studies have evaluated the pullet phase, particularly in extensive housing systems. This study was a 2 × 2 factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two [...] Read more.
Management choices during the pullet phase can affect behavior, welfare, and health later in life, but few studies have evaluated the pullet phase, particularly in extensive housing systems. This study was a 2 × 2 factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two strains and two stocking densities. The Lohmann LB-Lite and Lohmann LSL-Lite were housed on the floor at high-stocking density (619–670 cm2/bird) and low-stocking density (1249–1352 cm2/bird), which changed with age from 2 to 16 weeks of age (WOA). Bird-based measures of appearance, blood parameters, organ measurements, and production values were evaluated. Stocking density alone affected (p < 0.05) only relative bursal weight (% of body weight)—3.32% in the low-density versus 3.08% in the high-density group. High-stocking density was correlated with decreased uniformity (high—89.33 ± 0.24%; low—90.41 ± 0.24; p < 0.02) and worse feather coverage in the brown strain. High-stocking density was correlated with greater uniformity (High—90.39 ± 0.24%; Low—88.47 ± 0.24%; p < 0.001) and better feather coverage in the white strain. This study’s feed conversion ratio (FCR) was improved by 0.07 in the low-stocking density for both strains. The remaining parameters were affected by strain and age only. Thus, while stocking density effects vary slightly depending on the strain used, cage-free pullets had limited negative effects at both the high and low-stocking densities tested in this study; there were few to no changes in the numerous bird-based welfare parameters tested. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Poultry Behaviour and Welfare)
28 pages, 9420 KiB  
Article
Coastline Automatic Extraction from Medium-Resolution Satellite Images Using Principal Component Analysis (PCA)-Based Approach
by Claudio Parente, Emanuele Alcaras and Francesco Giuseppe Figliomeni
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(10), 1817; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16101817 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
In recent decades several methods have been developed to extract coastlines from remotely sensed images. In fact, this is one of the principal fields of remote sensing research that continues to receive attention, as testified by the thousands of scientific articles present in [...] Read more.
In recent decades several methods have been developed to extract coastlines from remotely sensed images. In fact, this is one of the principal fields of remote sensing research that continues to receive attention, as testified by the thousands of scientific articles present in the main databases, such as SCOPUS, WoS, etc. The main issue is to automatize the whole process or at least a great part of it, so as to minimize the human error connected to photointerpretation and identification of training sites to support the classification of objects (basically soil and water) present in the observed scene. This article proposes a new fully automatic methodological approach for coastline extraction: it is based on the unsupervised classification of the most decorrelated fictitious band derived from Principal Component Analysis (PCA) applied to the satellite images. The experiments are carried out on datasets characterized by images with different geometric resolution, i.e., Landsat 9 Operational Land Imager (OLI) multispectral images (pixel size: 30 m), a Sentinel-2 dataset including blue, green, red and Near Infrared (NIR) bands (pixel size: 10 m) and a Sentinel-2 dataset including red edge, narrow NIR and Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) bands (pixel size: 20 m). The results are very encouraging, given that the comparison between each extracted coastline and the corresponding real one generates, in all cases, residues that present a Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) lower than the pixel size of the considered dataset. In addition, the PCA results are better than those achieved with Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) and Modified NDWI (MNDWI) applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal and Littoral Observation Using Remote Sensing)
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21 pages, 577 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Milk Leakage, Udder Pressure and Further Risk Factors on the Development of New Intramammary Infections during the Dry Period of Dairy Cows
by Pauline Katthöfer, Yanchao Zhang, Nicole Wente, Franziska Preine, Julia Nitz and Volker Krömker
Pathogens 2024, 13(5), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13050430 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Prevention of new intramammary infection (NIMI) during the dry period (DP) is essential to prevent the development of mastitis in dairy cows. To investigate risk factors for NIMI, 212 cows, comprising a total of 848 udder quarters, were examined in this study. Quarter [...] Read more.
Prevention of new intramammary infection (NIMI) during the dry period (DP) is essential to prevent the development of mastitis in dairy cows. To investigate risk factors for NIMI, 212 cows, comprising a total of 848 udder quarters, were examined in this study. Quarter milk samples were taken on the day of drying off and 7 ± 3 days after calving. Cow- and quarter-level associated risk factors were assessed at the beginning of the DP and after calving. In total, 7.1% of the udder quarters developed an NIMI between the samplings. Non-aureus staphylococci (40.4%) and Gram-negative pathogens (22.8%) were most frequently the cause of NIMI. The observed milk leakage prevalence was 16.7%, with a peak 24 h after drying off. Simultaneously, the udder pressure peaked 24 h after drying off. A significant correlation between milk yield on the day before drying off and milk leakage could be proven. Cows with quarters leaking milk produced an average milk yield of 28.32 kg on the day before drying off. Generalised linear mixed models and odds ratios were calculated to determine the significant risk factors for NIMI during the DP and early lactation. Quarters leaking milk had 3.4 higher odds for NIMI between the samplings compared to quarters without milk leakage. Quarters from cows with dirty udders had 3.1 higher odds of developing an NIMI between the samplings compared to quarters from cows with clean udders. The results of this study demonstrate the importance of dry cow management before drying off and during the critical period of active involution of the udder tissue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Mastitis in Dairy Ruminants)
16 pages, 1236 KiB  
Article
Deregulated Long Non-Coding RNAs (lncRNA) as Promising Biomarkers in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
by Uppala Radhakrishna, Uppala Ratnamala, Devendrasinh D. Jhala, Lavanya V. Uppala, Aaren Vedangi, Nazia Saiyed, Maulikkumar Patel, Sushma R. Shah, Rakesh M. Rawal, Gregor B. E. Jemec, Tommaso Mazza, Gianluigi Mazzoccoli and Giovanni Damiani
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 3016; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13103016 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In recent times, epigenetics alterations in Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) have been explored and exploited translationally to guide investigation of new therapeutic approaches. On the other hand, long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs), main regulators of the epigenetic status of the human genome, have been [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In recent times, epigenetics alterations in Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) have been explored and exploited translationally to guide investigation of new therapeutic approaches. On the other hand, long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs), main regulators of the epigenetic status of the human genome, have been scarcely investigated, notwithstanding their potential relevance in broad pathogenesis comprehension. Here, we aim to explore the methylation pattern of lncRNAs in HS. Methods: In this case-control study, 24 HS patients and age-, sex- and BMI-matched controls were analyzed to characterize the methylome of lncRNA genes in peripheral blood cells. Gene ontology analysis (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, and MCODE analysis were performed. Results: A set of fifteen lncRNA genes exhibited significantly differential methylation patterns, with ten of them showing hypomethylation and five displaying hypermethylation at specific CpG sites. The hypomethylated lncRNA genes were DLEU2, MESTIT1, CASC2, TUG1, KCNQ1DN, PSORS1C3, PCA3, DSCR8, RFPL1S, and PVT1, while the hypermethylated ones were HAR1A, FAM66B, SNHG9, HCG9, and HCP5. These lncRNA genes have been linked to various important biological processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, chronic inflammatory skin diseases, and wound healing. Their altered methylation status suggests potential roles in regulating these processes, and may contribute to HS pathogenesis and healing mechanisms. Conclusions: This study revealed an interesting dysregulation pattern of definite lncRNAs in the methylome which is linked to both the development of HS and its comorbidities. Epigenetically altered lncRNAs genes could represent useful biomarkers, and could help in guiding innovative treatment strategies. Full article
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24 pages, 1060 KiB  
Article
A New Three-Parameter Inverse Rayleigh Distribution: Simulation and Application to Real Data
by Muzafer Shala and Faton Merovci
Symmetry 2024, 16(5), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16050634 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we introduce a new three-parameter inverse Rayleigh distribution that extends the inverse Rayleigh distribution, constructed based on the generalized transmuted family of distributions proposed by Alizadeh, Merovci, and Hamedani. We explore statistical properties such as the quantile function, moments, harmonic [...] Read more.
In this paper, we introduce a new three-parameter inverse Rayleigh distribution that extends the inverse Rayleigh distribution, constructed based on the generalized transmuted family of distributions proposed by Alizadeh, Merovci, and Hamedani. We explore statistical properties such as the quantile function, moments, harmonic mean, mean deviation, stress–strength reliability, and entropy. Parameter estimation is performed using various methods, including maximum likelihood, least squares, the method of the maximum product of spacings, and the method of Cramér–von Mises. The usefulness of the new three-parameter inverse Rayleigh distribution is illustrated by modeling a real dataset, demonstrating its superior fit compared to several other distributions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric or Asymmetric Distributions and Its Applications)
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16 pages, 309 KiB  
Article
Functional Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Children with Autism and ADHD: Profiles of Hair and Salivary Cortisol, Serum Leptin Concentrations and Externalizing/Internalizing Problems
by Andreas Petropoulos, Sophia Anesiadou, Maria Michou, Aikaterini Lymperatou, Eleftheria Roma, George Chrousos and Panagiota Pervanidou
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1538; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101538 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) present a higher prevalence in individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs). The Stress System and the Gut–Brain axis (GBA) may mediate these relations. We aimed to assess the prevalence and profile of FGIDs in a clinical sample of children [...] Read more.
Background: Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) present a higher prevalence in individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs). The Stress System and the Gut–Brain axis (GBA) may mediate these relations. We aimed to assess the prevalence and profile of FGIDs in a clinical sample of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) compared to typically developing children (TD) as well as to investigate possible relations between stress-related biomarkers and internalizing/externalizing problems in children with NDDS. Methods: In total, 120 children, aged between 4 and 12 years old, formed three groups (N = 40, each): ADHD, ASD and TD. Salivary cortisol, hair cortisol and serum leptin were measured. Results: The ASD group had more FGID problems than the TD group (p = 0.001). The ADHD and ASD groups had higher total internalizing/externalizing problems than the TD group (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, p = 0.005, respectively). Children with FGIDs showed more total, internalizing and externalizing problems compared to children without FGIDs (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, p = 0.041, respectively). The ADHD group showed lower AUCg values (p < 0.0001), while the hair cortisol was higher for the TD group (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: In conclusion, children with NDDs had more FGID symptoms and present higher internalizing and externalizing problems. Children with ADHD and FGIDs had more internalizing problems compared to those without FGIDs. No differences in stress-related biomarkers were shown to differentiate children with NDDs with and without FGIDs. Future prospective studies including a greater number of children may elucidate the biological pathways linking these comorbidities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High-Fat Diet, Obesity, and Behavioral Health)
27 pages, 2691 KiB  
Article
KNN Local Linear Regression for Demarcating River Cross-Sections with Point Cloud Data from UAV Photogrammetry URiver-X
by Taesam Lee, Seonghyeon Hwang and Vijay P. Singh
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(10), 1820; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16101820 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Aerial surveying with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has been popularly employed in river management and flood monitoring. One of the major processes in UAV aerial surveying for river applications is to demarcate the cross-section of a river. From the photo images of aerial [...] Read more.
Aerial surveying with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has been popularly employed in river management and flood monitoring. One of the major processes in UAV aerial surveying for river applications is to demarcate the cross-section of a river. From the photo images of aerial surveying, a point cloud dataset can be abstracted with the structure from the motion technique. To accurately demarcate the cross-section from the cloud points, an appropriate delineation technique is required to reproduce the characteristics of natural and manmade channels, including abrupt changes, bumps and lined shapes. Therefore, a nonparametric estimation technique, called the K-nearest neighbor local linear regression (KLR) model, was tested in the current study to demarcate the cross-section of a river with a point cloud dataset from aerial surveying. The proposed technique was tested with synthetically simulated trapezoidal, U-shape and V-shape channels. In addition, the proposed KLR model was compared with the traditional polynomial regression model and another nonparametric technique, locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOWESS). The experimental study was performed with the river experiment center in Andong, South Korea. Furthermore, the KLR model was applied to two real case studies in the Migok-cheon stream on Hapcheon-gun and Pori-cheon stream on Yecheon-gun and compared to the other models. With the extensive applications to the feasible river channels, the results indicated that the proposed KLR model can be a suitable alternative for demarcating the cross-section of a river with point cloud data from UAV aerial surveying by reproducing the critical characteristics of natural and manmade channels, including abrupt changes and small bumps as well as different shapes. Finally, the limitation of the UAV-driven demarcation approach was also discussed due to the penetrability of RGB sensors to water. Full article
28 pages, 6678 KiB  
Article
Healthcare Providers’ and Pregnant People’s Preferences for a Preventive to Protect Infants from Serious Illness Due to Respiratory Syncytial Virus
by Kathleen M. Beusterien, Amy W. Law, Martine C. Maculaitis, Oliver Will, Lewis Kopenhafer, Patrick Olsen, Brett Hauber, Jeffrey T. Vietri, Joseph C. Cappelleri, Joshua R. Coulter and Kimberly M. Shea
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050560 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
We assessed the impact of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) preventive characteristics on the intentions of pregnant people and healthcare providers (HCPs) to protect infants with a maternal vaccine or monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Pregnant people and HCPs who treated pregnant people and/or infants were [...] Read more.
We assessed the impact of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) preventive characteristics on the intentions of pregnant people and healthcare providers (HCPs) to protect infants with a maternal vaccine or monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Pregnant people and HCPs who treated pregnant people and/or infants were recruited via convenience sample from a general research panel to complete a cross-sectional, web-based survey, including a discrete choice experiment (DCE) wherein respondents chose between hypothetical RSV preventive profiles varying on five attributes (effectiveness, preventive type [maternal vaccine vs. mAb], injection recipient/timing, type of medical visit required to receive the injection, and duration of protection during RSV season) and a no-preventive option. A best–worst scaling (BWS) exercise was included to explore the impact of additional attributes on preventive preferences. Data were collected between October and November 2022. Attribute-level preference weights and relative importance (RI) were estimated. Overall, 992 pregnant people and 310 HCPs participated. A preventive (vs. none) was chosen 89.2% (pregnant people) and 96.0% (HCPs) of the time (DCE). Effectiveness was most important to preventive choice for pregnant people (RI = 48.0%) and HCPs (RI = 41.7%); all else equal, pregnant people (RI = 5.5%) and HCPs (RI = 7.2%) preferred the maternal vaccine over mAbs, although preventive type had limited influence on choice. Longer protection, protection starting at birth or the beginning of RSV season, and use for both pre-term and full-term babies were ranked highest in importance (BWS). Pregnant people and HCPs strongly preferred a preventive to protect infants against RSV (vs. none), underscoring the need to incorporate RSV preventives into routine care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Psychobehavioral Responses towards Vaccination)
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24 pages, 2361 KiB  
Article
The Nexus between Green Finance and Carbon Emissions: Evidence from Maturity Mismatch in China
by Xiuli Liu, Jing Cui, Yanrui Wu, Xiaohang Yue, Jun Shen and Pibin Guo
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4319; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104319 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Green finance has been widely acknowledged as a pivotal instrument for mitigating carbon emissions. However, few studies have focused on the role of maturity mismatches in promoting carbon emission reduction through green finance. This study aims to develop a composite criterion for green [...] Read more.
Green finance has been widely acknowledged as a pivotal instrument for mitigating carbon emissions. However, few studies have focused on the role of maturity mismatches in promoting carbon emission reduction through green finance. This study aims to develop a composite criterion for green finance and examine the mechanism of how green finance affects carbon emissions via the new perspective of maturity mismatch. It is accomplished by applying a two-way fixed effects model which incorporates provincial data spanning from 2010 to 2020. The empirical evidence suggests green finance plays a significant role in carbon emission reduction, a result that remains robust even after undergoing other tests such as using instrumental variables and alternating econometric models. Furthermore, this effect is particularly pronounced in regions with high degrees of green finance and low energy consumption. Mechanism analysis documents that green finance reduces carbon emissions by addressing maturity mismatch issues faced by green enterprises. Further research finds that green finance can promote the synergy of pollution and carbon reduction; in particular, the effect of maturity mismatch on SO2 reduction is more obvious. Consequently, this study offers practical recommendations for governments, financial institutions, and other relevant policymakers to further propel the advancement of green finance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Supply Chain and Operation Management)
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20 pages, 11953 KiB  
Article
Protic Processes in an Extended Pyrazinacene: The Case of Dihydrotetradecaazaheptacene
by Aël Cador, Samia Kahlal, Gary J. Richards, Jean-François Halet and Jonathan P. Hill
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2407; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102407 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Pyrazinacenes are linearly fused heteroaromatic rings, with N atoms replacing all apical CH moieties. Component rings may exist in a reduced state, having NH groups instead of N, causing cross-conjugation. These compounds have interesting optical and electronic properties, including strong fluorescence in the [...] Read more.
Pyrazinacenes are linearly fused heteroaromatic rings, with N atoms replacing all apical CH moieties. Component rings may exist in a reduced state, having NH groups instead of N, causing cross-conjugation. These compounds have interesting optical and electronic properties, including strong fluorescence in the near-infrared region and photocatalytic properties, leading to diverse possible applications in bio-imaging and organic synthesis, as well as obvious molecular electronic uses. In this study, we investigated the behavior of seven-ring pyrazinacene 2,3,11,12-tetraphenyl-7,16-dihydro-1,4,5,6,7,8,9,12,13,14,15,16,17,18-tetradecaazaheptacene (Ph4H2N14HEPT), with an emphasis on protic processes, including oxidation, tautomerism, deprotonation, and protonation, and the species resulting from those processes. We used computational methods to optimize the structures of the different species and generate/compare molecular orbital structures. The aromaticity of the species generated by the different processes was assessed using the nucleus-independent chemical shifts, and trends in the values were associated with the different transformations of the pyrazinacene core. The computational data were compared with experimental data obtained from synthetic samples of the molecule tBu8Ph4H2N14HEPT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fused-Nitrogen-Containing Heterocycles (Second Edition))
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37 pages, 11458 KiB  
Review
Small Molecule Drugs Targeting Viral Polymerases
by Deborah Palazzotti, Martina Sguilla, Giuseppe Manfroni, Violetta Cecchetti, Andrea Astolfi and Maria Letizia Barreca
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050661 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Small molecules that specifically target viral polymerases—crucial enzymes governing viral genome transcription and replication—play a pivotal role in combating viral infections. Presently, approved polymerase inhibitors cover nine human viruses, spanning both DNA and RNA viruses. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of these [...] Read more.
Small molecules that specifically target viral polymerases—crucial enzymes governing viral genome transcription and replication—play a pivotal role in combating viral infections. Presently, approved polymerase inhibitors cover nine human viruses, spanning both DNA and RNA viruses. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of these licensed drugs, encompassing nucleoside/nucleotide inhibitors (NIs), non-nucleoside inhibitors (NNIs), and mutagenic agents. For each compound, we describe the specific targeted virus and related polymerase enzyme, the mechanism of action, and the relevant bioactivity data. This wealth of information serves as a valuable resource for researchers actively engaged in antiviral drug discovery efforts, offering a complete overview of established strategies as well as insights for shaping the development of next-generation antiviral therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small Molecules Targeting Viral Polymerases)
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25 pages, 2107 KiB  
Article
Exploring Chitosan Lactate as a Multifunctional Additive: Enhancing Quality and Extending Shelf Life of Whole Wheat Bread
by Pratik Singh, Vikas Yadav, Deblu Sahu, Krishan Kumar, Doman Kim, Deng Yang, Sivaraman Jayaraman, Maciej Jarzębski, Marek Wieruszewski and Kunal Pal
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1590; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101590 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
The shelf life of whole wheat bread (WWB) significantly impacts its freshness and overall quality. This research investigated the impact of chitosan lactate (CL) on various characteristics influencing the shelf life of WWB, including its physical, chemical, textural, antimicrobial, and sensory attributes. These [...] Read more.
The shelf life of whole wheat bread (WWB) significantly impacts its freshness and overall quality. This research investigated the impact of chitosan lactate (CL) on various characteristics influencing the shelf life of WWB, including its physical, chemical, textural, antimicrobial, and sensory attributes. These characteristics were evaluated by conducting various experiments such as physical inspection, moisture, impedance, swelling, color, texture, FTIR, microbiological, and sensory analysis. CL with different concentrations was incorporated into WWB formulations: P0.0 (0.0% w/w CL, control), P0.5 (0.5% w/w CL), P1.0 (1.0% w/w CL), P2.0 (2.0% w/w CL), and P3.0 (3.0% w/w CL). The inclusion of CL promoted the Maillard reaction (MR) compared to P0.0. The promotion of MR resulted in the formation of a shinier crust, which increased as the CL content was increased. P0.5 comprised large-sized pores and exhibited increased loaf height. CL-containing WWB formulations showed an increased moisture content and decreased impedance values compared to the control. FTIR analysis of P0.5 demonstrated the enhanced interaction and bonding of water molecules. P0.5 demonstrated optimal textural, colorimetric, and antimicrobial properties compared to other formulations. The sensory attributes of WWBs remain unchanged despite CL addition. In conclusion, P0.5 exhibited optimal characteristics associated with better quality and prolonged shelf life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Grain)
26 pages, 2772 KiB  
Article
Understanding the Impact of Seismic Hazard and Climate Conditions on Multi Criteria–Based Retrofitting of Existing Buildings
by Rita Couto, Gianrocco Mucedero, Rita Bento and Ricardo Monteiro
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4318; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104318 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
A large share of the reinforced concrete (RC) building stock in Mediterranean countries faces a dual challenge of seismic vulnerability and energy inefficiency, calling for urgent renovation efforts. While energy upgrades have been the focus of previous renovation policies, recent research highlights the [...] Read more.
A large share of the reinforced concrete (RC) building stock in Mediterranean countries faces a dual challenge of seismic vulnerability and energy inefficiency, calling for urgent renovation efforts. While energy upgrades have been the focus of previous renovation policies, recent research highlights the critical need for integrated retrofitting solutions that address both structural integrity and energy performance. Multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approaches are a promising tool for optimizing the combined choice of these integrated interventions, considering various decision variables (DVs) of economic, social, environmental, and technical nature. To understand the impact of climate and seismic hazard conditions on multi-criteria-based retrofitting assessment, a case-study RC school building is selected and assumed to be located in three distinct climate conditions, cold, mild, and warm, and three seismic hazard levels, low, medium and high. Moreover, given the complexity and challenges of quantifying seismic performance metrics for practitioners, an available simplified (practice-oriented) approach is compared herein with a more thorough research-based one for quantifying the seismic performance of RC buildings within the MCDM framework. Both approaches are applied to the case-study building, considering twelve possible combinations of energy and seismic interventions. The accuracy of the practice-oriented approach and its impact on the retrofitting rankings is evaluated, emphasizing the importance of accessible and efficient evaluation methods in facilitating informed decision-making for building renovation. Full article
13 pages, 7908 KiB  
Article
Theoretical and Experimental Analysis of the Effect of Vaporization Heat on the Interaction between Laser and Biological Tissue
by Yuru Cheng, Yu Shen, Yuxia Gao, Ya Wen, Ze Lv, Erpeng Wang, Mingli Wang, Shenjin Zhang, Yong Bo and Qinjun Peng
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4333; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104333 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
A theoretical model, based on the classical Pennes’ bioheat theory, incorporating various boundary conditions, was established and compared to analyze the influence of the latent heat of vaporization via simulation. The aim was to elucidate the extent of its influence. The thermal damage [...] Read more.
A theoretical model, based on the classical Pennes’ bioheat theory, incorporating various boundary conditions, was established and compared to analyze the influence of the latent heat of vaporization via simulation. The aim was to elucidate the extent of its influence. The thermal damage rate, governed by the vaporization heat of biological tissue, is introduced as a key factor. Functional relationships between temperature and incident laser power, spatial position, and time are derived from the classical Pennes’ bioheat equation. According to the theoretical model, numerical simulations and experimental validations are conducted using Comsol Multiphysics 6.0, considering the tissue latent heat of vaporization. The model incorporating the latent heat of vaporization proved more suitable for analyzing the interactions between laser and biological tissue, evident from the degree of fit between simulated and experimental data. The minimum deviations between theoretical and experimental observations were determined to be 2.43% and 5.11% in temperature and thermal damage, respectively. Furthermore, this model can be extended to facilitate the theoretical analysis of the impact of vaporization heat from different primary tissue components on laser-tissue interaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Optics and Lasers)
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19 pages, 8227 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Asymmetrical Rolling of Ultra-Thin Strips Considering Elastic Deformation of the Strips
by Qilin Zhao, Xianlei Hu and Xianghua Liu
Materials 2024, 17(10), 2467; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17102467 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
In normal cold rolling, the elastic deformation of the strip is typically ignored because of the dominant plastic deformation. However, this neglect may introduce additional errors when the strip is very thin. The aim of this study is to investigate the characteristics of [...] Read more.
In normal cold rolling, the elastic deformation of the strip is typically ignored because of the dominant plastic deformation. However, this neglect may introduce additional errors when the strip is very thin. The aim of this study is to investigate the characteristics of the deformation region and thickness reduction in the asymmetrical rolling of ultra-thin strips. Mathematical models were developed based on the slab method, with consideration of the elastic deformation of the strips, and employed in the simulation calculation. The percentage of the three zones and the thickness reduction were analyzed using the simulation results. An increase in the speed ratio results in an increase in the reduction ratio, which is influenced by parameters, such as front tension, back tension, friction coefficient, and entry thickness. The elastic deformation of the strip reduces the tension and the roll pressure and causes the reduction ratio to decrease. The findings and conclusions of this study may be helpful to the mill operating in the asymmetrical rolling process of ultra-thin strips. Full article
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26 pages, 6618 KiB  
Article
Community Quality Evaluation for Socially Sustainable Regeneration: A Study Using Multi-Sourced Geospatial Data and AI-Based Image Semantic Segmentation
by Jinliu Chen, Wenquan Gan, Ning Liu, Pengcheng Li, Haoqi Wang, Xiaoxin Zhao and Di Yang
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2024, 13(5), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi13050167 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
The Chinese urban regeneration movement underscores a “people-oriented” paradigm, aimed at addressing urban challenges stemming from rapid prior urbanization, while striving for high-quality and sustainable urban development. At the community level, fostering quality through a socially sustainable perspective (SSP) is a pivotal strategy [...] Read more.
The Chinese urban regeneration movement underscores a “people-oriented” paradigm, aimed at addressing urban challenges stemming from rapid prior urbanization, while striving for high-quality and sustainable urban development. At the community level, fostering quality through a socially sustainable perspective (SSP) is a pivotal strategy for people-oriented urban regeneration. Nonetheless, explorations of community quality assessments grounded in an SSP have been notably scarce in recent scholarly discourse. This study pioneers a multidimensional quantitative model (MQM) for gauging community quality, leveraging diverse geospatial data sources from the SSP framework. The MQM introduces an evaluative framework with “Patency, Convenience, Comfort, and Safety” as primary indicators, integrating multi-sourced data encompassing the area of interest (AOI), Point of Interest (POI), Weibo check-ins, and Dianping data. The model’s efficacy is demonstrated through a case study in the Gusu district, Suzhou. Furthermore, semantic analysis of the Gusu district’s street view photos validates the MQM results. Our findings reveal the following: (1) AI-based semantic analysis accurately verifies the validity of MQM-generated community quality measurements, establishing its robust applicability with multi-sourced geospatial data; (2) the community quality distribution in Gusu district is notably correlated with the urban fabric, exhibiting lower quality within the ancient town area and higher quality outside it; and (3) communities of varying quality coexist spatially, with high- and low-quality communities overlapping in the same regions. This research pioneers a systematic, holistic methodology for quantitatively measuring community quality, laying the groundwork for informed urban regeneration policies, planning, and place making. The MQM, fortified by multi-sourced geospatial data and AI-based semantic analysis, offers a rigorous foundation for assessing community quality, thereby guiding socially sustainable regeneration initiatives and decision making at the community scale. Full article
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18 pages, 8347 KiB  
Article
New Year Fireworks Influence on Air Quality in Case of Stagnant Foggy Conditions
by Audrė Kalinauskaitė, Lina Davulienė, Julija Pauraite, Agnė Minderytė and Steigvilė Byčenkienė
Urban Sci. 2024, 8(2), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci8020054 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Urban science plays a pivotal role in understanding the complex interactions between fireworks, air quality, and urban environments. Dense firework smoke worsens air quality and poses a health hazard to the public. In this study, we show a situation where extremely foggy meteorological [...] Read more.
Urban science plays a pivotal role in understanding the complex interactions between fireworks, air quality, and urban environments. Dense firework smoke worsens air quality and poses a health hazard to the public. In this study, we show a situation where extremely foggy meteorological conditions coincided with intense anthropogenic emissions, including fireworks, in an urban area. For the first time, the chemical composition and sources of non-refractory submicron aerosol (NR-PM1) in outdoor and indoor air were characterized in Vilnius (Lithuania) using an aerosol chemical speciation monitor (ACSM) and Positive Matrix Factorization for the period before the fireworks, on New Year’s Eve, and after the fireworks in 2020/2021; thus, typical changes were assessed. Due to stagnant weather conditions and increased traffic, the highest concentrations of black carbon (BC) (13.8 μg/m3) were observed before the fireworks display. The contribution of organic (Org) fraction to the total NR-PM1 mass concentration, in the comparison of the values of a typical night and New Year’s Eve (from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.), increased from 43% to 70% and from 47% to 60% in outdoor and indoor air, respectively. Biomass-burning organic aerosol (BBOA, 48% (44%)) and hydrocarbon-like organic aerosol (HOA, 35% (21%)) dominated the organic fraction indoors and outdoors, respectively. HOA was likely linked to increased traffic during the event, while BBOA may have been related to domestic heating and fireworks. Full article
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30 pages, 15359 KiB  
Review
Advancement in Cancer Vasculogenesis Modeling through 3D Bioprinting Technology
by Arvind Kumar Shukla, Sik Yoon, Sae-Ock Oh, Dongjun Lee, Minjun Ahn and Byoung Soo Kim
Biomimetics 2024, 9(5), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9050306 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Cancer vasculogenesis is a pivotal focus of cancer research and treatment given its critical role in tumor development, metastasis, and the formation of vasculogenic microenvironments. Traditional approaches to investigating cancer vasculogenesis face significant challenges in accurately modeling intricate microenvironments. Recent advancements in three-dimensional [...] Read more.
Cancer vasculogenesis is a pivotal focus of cancer research and treatment given its critical role in tumor development, metastasis, and the formation of vasculogenic microenvironments. Traditional approaches to investigating cancer vasculogenesis face significant challenges in accurately modeling intricate microenvironments. Recent advancements in three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting technology present promising solutions to these challenges. This review provides an overview of cancer vasculogenesis and underscores the importance of precise modeling. It juxtaposes traditional techniques with 3D bioprinting technologies, elucidating the advantages of the latter in developing cancer vasculogenesis models. Furthermore, it explores applications in pathological investigations, preclinical medication screening for personalized treatment and cancer diagnostics, and envisages future prospects for 3D bioprinted cancer vasculogenesis models. Despite notable advancements, current 3D bioprinting techniques for cancer vasculogenesis modeling have several limitations. Nonetheless, by overcoming these challenges and with technological advances, 3D bioprinting exhibits immense potential for revolutionizing the understanding of cancer vasculogenesis and augmenting treatment modalities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic 3D/4D Printing)
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12 pages, 437 KiB  
Study Protocol
MUltiparametric Score for Ventilation Discontinuation in Intensive Care Patients: A Protocol for an Observational Study
by Iacopo Cappellini, Andrea Cardoni, Lorenzo Campagnola and Guglielmo Consales
Methods Protoc. 2024, 7(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/mps7030045 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Mechanical ventilation significantly improves patient survival but is associated with complications, increasing healthcare costs and morbidity. Identifying optimal weaning times is paramount to minimize these risks, yet current methods rely heavily on clinical judgment, lacking specificity. Methods: This study introduces a novel [...] Read more.
Background: Mechanical ventilation significantly improves patient survival but is associated with complications, increasing healthcare costs and morbidity. Identifying optimal weaning times is paramount to minimize these risks, yet current methods rely heavily on clinical judgment, lacking specificity. Methods: This study introduces a novel multiparametric predictive score, the MUSVIP (MUltiparametric Score for Ventilation discontinuation in Intensive care Patients), aimed at accurately predicting successful extubation. Conducted at Santo Stefano Hospital’s ICU, this single-center, observational, prospective cohort study will span over 12 months, enrolling adult patients undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation. The MUSVIP integrates variables measured before and during a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) to formulate a predictive score. Results: Preliminary analyses suggest an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.815 for the MUSVIP, indicating high predictive capacity. By systematically applying this score, we anticipate identifying patients likely to succeed in weaning earlier, potentially reducing ICU length of stay and associated healthcare costs. Conclusion: This study’s findings could significantly influence clinical practices, offering a robust, easy-to-use tool for optimizing weaning processes in ICUs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Sciences and Physiology)
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17 pages, 801 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Understanding and Controlling Fusarium Diseases of Alliums
by Suman Sharma, Subhankar Mandal and Christopher S. Cramer
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050527 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Allium species are known for their culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes. Fusarium basal rot is one of the most damaging soilborne fungal diseases of Allium species and poses a significant threat to yield, quality, and storage life worldwide. Various species of Fusarium have [...] Read more.
Allium species are known for their culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes. Fusarium basal rot is one of the most damaging soilborne fungal diseases of Allium species and poses a significant threat to yield, quality, and storage life worldwide. Various species of Fusarium have been identified as causal agents for Fusarium basal rot, depending on the Allium species involved. Diverse disease management practices have been implemented to mitigate the impact of Fusarium basal rot. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent progress in detecting different species of Fusarium involved in Fusarium basal rot and strategies to control them in affected Allium species involving chemical, biological, and cultural methods. It covers the latest advancements in host plant resistance research from traditional breeding to modern molecular techniques and studying secondary metabolites involved in defense mechanisms against Fusarium basal rot. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
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25 pages, 4991 KiB  
Article
Structural and Organizational Strategies of Locomotor Modules during Landing in Patients with Chronic Ankle Instability
by Tianle Jie, Datao Xu, Zanni Zhang, Ee-Chon Teo, Julien S. Baker, Huiyu Zhou and Yaodong Gu
Bioengineering 2024, 11(5), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11050518 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Human locomotion involves the coordinated activation of a finite set of modules, known as muscle synergy, which represent the motor control strategy of the central nervous system. However, most prior studies have focused on isolated muscle activation, overlooking the modular organization of [...] Read more.
Background: Human locomotion involves the coordinated activation of a finite set of modules, known as muscle synergy, which represent the motor control strategy of the central nervous system. However, most prior studies have focused on isolated muscle activation, overlooking the modular organization of motor behavior. Therefore, to enhance comprehension of muscle coordination dynamics during multi-joint movements in chronic ankle instability (CAI), exploring muscle synergies during landing in CAI patients is imperative. Methods: A total of 22 patients with unilateral CAI and 22 healthy participants were recruited for this research. We employed a recursive model for second-order differential equations to process electromyographic (EMG) data after filtering preprocessing, generating the muscle activation matrix, which was subsequently inputted into the non-negative matrix factorization model for extraction of the muscle synergy. Muscle synergies were classified utilizing the K-means clustering algorithm and Pearson correlation coefficients. Statistical parameter mapping (SPM) was employed for temporal modular parameter analyses. Results: Four muscle synergies were identified in both the CAI and healthy groups. In Synergy 1, only the gluteus maximus showed significantly higher relative weight in CAI compared to healthy controls (p = 0.0035). Synergy 2 showed significantly higher relative weights for the vastus lateralis in the healthy group compared to CAI (p = 0.018), while in Synergy 4, CAI demonstrated significantly higher relative weights of the vastus lateralis compared to healthy controls (p = 0.030). Furthermore, in Synergy 2, the CAI group exhibited higher weights of the tibialis anterior compared to the healthy group (p = 0.042). Conclusions: The study suggested that patients with CAI exhibit a comparable modular organizational framework to the healthy group. Investigation of amplitude adjustments within the synergy spatial module shed light on the adaptive strategies employed by the tibialis anterior and gluteus maximus muscles to optimize control strategies during landing in patients with CAI. Variances in the muscle-specific weights of the vastus lateralis across movement modules reveal novel biomechanical adaptations in CAI, offering valuable insights for refining rehabilitation protocols. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Trauma and Injury Biomechanics)
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15 pages, 5837 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Antibacterial Properties of Silver Nanoparticles and Its Reducing Agent from Cinnamon Bark Extract
by Araceli Granja Alvear, Nayely Pineda-Aguilar, Patricia Lozano, Cristóbal Lárez-Velázquez, Gottfried Suppan, Salomé Galeas, Alexis Debut, Karla Vizuete, Lola De Lima, Juan Pablo Saucedo-Vázquez, Frank Alexis and Floralba López
Bioengineering 2024, 11(5), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11050517 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Synthesis of silver nanoparticles with antibacterial properties using a one-pot green approach that harnesses the natural reducing and capping properties of cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) bark extract is presented in this work. Silver nitrate was the sole chemical reagent employed in this [...] Read more.
Synthesis of silver nanoparticles with antibacterial properties using a one-pot green approach that harnesses the natural reducing and capping properties of cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) bark extract is presented in this work. Silver nitrate was the sole chemical reagent employed in this process, acting as the precursor salt. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis, and some phytochemical tests demonstrated that cinnamaldehyde is the main component in the cinnamon bark extract. The resulting bio-reduced silver nanoparticles underwent comprehensive characterization by Ultraviolet–Vis (UV-Vis) and Fourier Transform InfraRed spectrophotometry (FTIR), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Transmission Electron Microscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy suggesting that cinnamaldehyde was chemically oxidated to produce silver nanoparticles. These cinnamon-extract-based silver nanoparticles (AgNPs-cinnamon) displayed diverse morphologies ranging from spherical to prismatic shapes, with sizes spanning between 2.94 and 65.1 nm. Subsequently, the antibacterial efficacy of these nanoparticles was investigated against Klebsiella, E. Coli, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus aureus, and Acinetobacter strains. The results suggest the promising potential of silver nanoparticles obtained (AgNPs-cinnamon) as antimicrobial agents, offering a new avenue in the fight against bacterial infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanotechnology Applications in Bioengineering)
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21 pages, 1434 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Organizational Resilience: The Transformative Influence of Strategic Human Resource Management Practices and Organizational Culture
by Iulian Georgescu, Claudiu George Bocean, Anca Antoaneta Vărzaru, Cristina Claudia Rotea, Mădălina Giorgiana Mangra and Gabriel Ioan Mangra
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4315; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104315 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
In an era characterized by rapid changes and uncertainty, organizational resilience emerges as a critical factor for the survival and prosperity of businesses. Confronted with a progressively volatile and unpredictable organizational landscape, an organization’s capacity to swiftly and effectively address challenges and adapt [...] Read more.
In an era characterized by rapid changes and uncertainty, organizational resilience emerges as a critical factor for the survival and prosperity of businesses. Confronted with a progressively volatile and unpredictable organizational landscape, an organization’s capacity to swiftly and effectively address challenges and adapt to changes becomes indispensable. This paper investigates the role of strategic human resource management (SHRM) practices and organizational culture (OC) in enhancing organizational resilience (OR). The research employed a questionnaire distributed to 501 employees within public institutions, with data analysis conducted using structural equation modeling. The study assesses the direct effects of SHRM practices on organizational resilience while also investigating the mediating effects of organizational culture on the relationship between these practices and resilience. The primary findings highlight both the direct and indirect impacts of SHRM practices on organizational resilience. The study underscores the importance of adopting an integrated approach, wherein SHRM practices and organizational culture are strategically aligned to bolster organizational resilience and secure sustainable success in a dynamic and turbulent organizational landscape. Full article
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