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24 pages, 33744 KiB  
Article
Experimental and Simulation Investigation on Fatigue Performance of H13 Steel Tools in Friction Stir Welding of Aluminum Alloys
by Ling Long, Xiaohong Zhang, Song Gu, Xiuxin Li, Xuefeng Cheng and Gaoqiang Chen
Materials 2024, 17(7), 1535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071535 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
As the central component in friction stir welding, the design and manufacture of welding tools for aluminum alloys have garnered substantial attention. However, the understanding of tool reliability during the welding process, especially in terms of fatigue performance, remains unclear. This paper focuses [...] Read more.
As the central component in friction stir welding, the design and manufacture of welding tools for aluminum alloys have garnered substantial attention. However, the understanding of tool reliability during the welding process, especially in terms of fatigue performance, remains unclear. This paper focuses on the welding of AA2219-T4 as a case study to elucidate the predominant failure mode of the tool during the friction stir welding (FSW) of aluminum alloys. Experimental methods, including FSW welding and fracture morphology analysis of the failed tool, coupled with numerical simulation, confirm that high-cycle mechanical fatigue fracture is the primary mode of the tool failure. Failures predominantly occur at the tool pin’s root and the shoulder end face with scroll concave grooves. The experimental and simulation results exhibit a noteworthy agreement, validating the reliability of the simulation model. The FSW Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) model developed in this study analyzes stress distribution and variation under the thermo-mechanical coupling effect of the tool. It reveals that stress concentration resulting from structural changes in the tool is the primary driver of fatigue crack initiation. This is attributed to exposure to alternating cyclic stresses such as bending, tension, and torsion at the tool pin’s root, manifesting as multiaxial composite mechanical fatigue. Among these stresses, bending alternating cyclic stress exerts the most significant influence. The paper employs the Tool Life module in DEFORM software to predict the fatigue life of the tool. Results indicate that reducing welding speed or increasing rotation speed can enhance the tool’s fatigue life to some extent. The methodology proposed in this paper serves as a valuable reference for optimizing FSW structures or processes to enhance the fatigue performance of welding tools. Full article
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12 pages, 269 KiB  
Article
Nutritional, Utility, and Sensory Quality and Safety of Sunflower Oil on the Central European Market
by Kristina Nakonechna, Vojtech Ilko, Markéta Ber?íková, Vladimír Vietoris, Zdeňka Panovská and Marek Dole?al
Agriculture 2024, 14(4), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14040536 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
In the quality monitoring of 18 sunflower oil samples from the EU market, 14 were refined and 4 were cold-pressed. They demonstrated high quality of technological processing with low values of trans-unsaturated fatty acids, acid value, and peroxide value and also met [...] Read more.
In the quality monitoring of 18 sunflower oil samples from the EU market, 14 were refined and 4 were cold-pressed. They demonstrated high quality of technological processing with low values of trans-unsaturated fatty acids, acid value, and peroxide value and also met the limits set by legislation in the content of process contaminants 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) esters and glycidyl esters. Measurements of oxidative stability showed a difference in utility value. The average induction period of the oils from the traditional varieties was 2.6 h, predisposing them to cold cooking or short-term frying, while the 11.8 h of the four high oleic sunflower oils (HOSO) indicates the possibility of long-term heat stress. The nutritional benefit is the average vitamin E content of 663 mg/kg oil. The overall sensory quality of the samples was evaluated by a 12-member panel of trained assessors. On the seven-point category scale, the oils were of good to exceptional quality. The cold-pressed oils (CPOs) differed in having, on average, lower trans-unsaturated fatty acid content, process contaminants at unmeasurable levels, and, on average, higher vitamin E concentrations. The specific organoleptic properties of the CPOs were characterized by a pleasant nutty and sunflower seed flavor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Agricultural Product Quality and Safety)
20 pages, 4226 KiB  
Article
Performance of Mg/Al and Zn/Al Hydroxide Double Lamellar-Bentonite for Removal of Anionic Azo Dye from Aqueous Solution
by Mohammed Mustapha Bouhent, Kahina Bentaleb, Abdulrahman Al-Ameri and Ulrich Maschke
Processes 2024, 12(4), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12040677 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper presents the preparation and characterization of bentonite coated with hydroxide double lamellar Mg/Al-bentonite and Zn/Al-bentonite as a potential adsorbent material. The coating process involved co-precipitation of mixed metal nitrate solution (Mg-Al) or (Zn-Al), followed by immersion of bentonite (B-Na+) [...] Read more.
This paper presents the preparation and characterization of bentonite coated with hydroxide double lamellar Mg/Al-bentonite and Zn/Al-bentonite as a potential adsorbent material. The coating process involved co-precipitation of mixed metal nitrate solution (Mg-Al) or (Zn-Al), followed by immersion of bentonite (B-Na+) dispersion. The structures and morphologies of the coated bentonites were characterized using XRD, FTIR, BET, and SEM analysis. The results of the BET analysis indicate that Mg/Al-bentonite and Zn/Al-bentonite have larger surface areas and pore volumes compared to bentonite alone. Specifically, the surface area of Mg/Al-bentonite is 209.25 m2/g with a pore volume of 0.423 cm3/g, while Zn/Al-bentonite has a surface area of 175.95 m2/g and a pore volume of 0.313 cm3/g. In contrast, the surface area and pore volume of bentonite alone are 110.43 m2/g and 0.132 cm3/g, respectively. The Mg/Al-bentonite reaches 85% uptake within 3 h (equivalent to 724.20 mg/g at 25 °C and pH 7), achieving rapid equilibrium. In contrast, the Zn/Al-bentonite achieves a maximum adsorption of 74% within 5 h under identical pH and temperature conditions, corresponding to 650.34 mg/g. The error function values, including the correlation coefficient R2, chi-square test χ2, and residual sum of squares RSS, were calculated to evaluate both kinetic and isotherm models. The kinetic adsorption data agreed well with a pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption process followed the Sips isotherm model, and the monolayer adsorption capacity of Mg/Al-bent and Zn/Al-bent composites was 872.41 (R2 = 0.974) and 678.45 mg/g (R2 = 0.983), respectively. The thermodynamic analysis of the adsorption process revealed that it occurred spontaneously with an endothermic characteristic. The parameters ΔS, ΔH, and ΔG were used to determine this. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Adsorption of Wastewater Pollutants)
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12 pages, 2641 KiB  
Article
The Net Clinical Outcome of Dual-Pathway Inhibition in Clinical Practice: The “Xarelto plus Acetylsalicylic Acid: Treatment Patterns and Outcomes in Patients with Atherosclerosis” Registry
by Alexander Breitenstein, Alain Gay, Kai Vogtl?nder, Keith A. A. Fox and Jan Steffel
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1956; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071956 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: In the COMPASS trial, the combination of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) plus 2.5 mg rivaroxaban twice daily (dual-pathway inhibition, DPI) has been shown to be superior to ASA monotherapy for the reduction in ischemic major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs, i.e., cardiovascular death, [...] Read more.
Background: In the COMPASS trial, the combination of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) plus 2.5 mg rivaroxaban twice daily (dual-pathway inhibition, DPI) has been shown to be superior to ASA monotherapy for the reduction in ischemic major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs, i.e., cardiovascular death, stroke, or myocardial infarction). Methods: The international XATOA registry (Xarelto plus Acetylsalicylic acid: Treatment patterns and Outcomes in patients with Atherosclerosis) is a prospective post-approval registry that investigates the cardiovascular outcomes of patients taking ASA plus 2.5 mg rivaroxaban. The aim of this pre-specified analysis was to determine the net clinical outcome (NCO), i.e., a combination of MACEs and bleeding events, of DPI in patients from daily clinical practice. Results: Among the 5615 patients, the presence of multiple risk factors resulted in an increase in the total risk of experiencing an NCO event, e.g., from 1.27% (one risk factor) to 2.18% (two risk factors) and 4.07% (three or more risk factors), respectively, with ischemic MACE representing the primary driver of bleeding complications. Conclusions: In the real-world XATOA registry, the annual rate of NCO events was low and numerically similar to those seen in the treatment group in the randomized COMPASS trial. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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11 pages, 1108 KiB  
Article
Emergency First Responders’ Misconceptions about Suicide: A Descriptive Study
by Elena Victoria Ayala Romera, Rosa María Sánchez Santos, Giulio Fenzi, Juan Antonio García Méndez and Jose Luis Díaz Agea
Nurs. Rep. 2024, 14(2), 777-787; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep14020060 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: In 2022, suicide was the second leading cause of external death in Spain (the first among young people aged 15–29 years). This study aims to analyze the presence of myths among emergency first responders and identify the most prevalent false beliefs among [...] Read more.
Background: In 2022, suicide was the second leading cause of external death in Spain (the first among young people aged 15–29 years). This study aims to analyze the presence of myths among emergency first responders and identify the most prevalent false beliefs among them. Methods: The research is a observational and descriptive study carried out using a questionnaire composed of a total of 25 myths, with the response options being true or false. A total of 543 professionals took part in the study. All of them could intervene before, during, and after a suicide attempt. Results: The main finding of the study is that more than 50% of the participants accept as true the statement "There are more serious and less serious problems", underlining the idea that caring for patients could be related to the importance the health professional gives to the patients’ problem. Myths such as “The suicidal person wants to die” and “The suicidal person is determined to die” are also evident. Conclusion: The subjective thought the first responder has about suicide could affect their acts, and there is a need to train first responders in suicidal behavior to be able to create an adequate approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nursing Care and Clinical Management in the Post-Pandemic Era)
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13 pages, 1811 KiB  
Article
Serum Levels of S100A8/A9 as a Biomarker of Disease Activity in Patients with IgA Vasculitis
by Sasa Srsen, Martina Held, Mario Sestan, Nastasia Kifer, Ana Kozmar, Daniela Supe Domic, Benjamin Benzon, Alenka Gagro, Marijan Frkovic and Marija Jelusic
Biomedicines 2024, 12(4), 750; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12040750 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
S100A8/A9 protein is a well-known marker of disease activity or severity in many autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, but there have not been many studies about the role of S100A8/A9 in IgA vasculitis (IgAV). The aim of our study was to evaluate S100A8/A9 as [...] Read more.
S100A8/A9 protein is a well-known marker of disease activity or severity in many autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, but there have not been many studies about the role of S100A8/A9 in IgA vasculitis (IgAV). The aim of our study was to evaluate S100A8/A9 as a possible biomarker of activity in IgAV. We measured the serum levels of S100A8/A9 in pediatric patients with IgA vasculitis at the onset of the disease, after three months, and after six months. We compared these levels between patients with active disease, remission, and a control group, and assessed their correlation with disease activity and other markers of inflammation. Patients with active disease had significantly higher levels of serum S100A8/A9 (median ± SD) than those in the control group at the beginning of the disease (5740 ± 3157 ng/mL vs. 1447 ± 858.3 ng/mL; p < 0.0001), but also three months and six months after disease onset (p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between S100A8/A9 serum levels and disease activity (p = 0.0003). Patients with active disease had significantly higher levels of S100A8/A9 than those in remission three months after disease onset (p = 0.0260). There was a correlation between S100A8/A9 and C-reactive protein, the C3 component of complement, ferritin, and fibrinogen. Serum levels of S100A8/A9 were also higher in patients with greater skin areas covered with rash. We demonstrated that serum levels of S100A8/A9 correlated well with disease activity and other biomarkers of inflammation in children with IgAV. According to our results, serum S100A8/A9 may be a good indicator of active disease in IgAV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Immunotherapy)
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28 pages, 26981 KiB  
Article
Micro- and Macro-Scale Topology Optimization of Multi-Material Functionally Graded Lattice Structures
by Jerónimo Santos, Abdolrasoul Sohouli and Afzal Suleman
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(4), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8040124 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Lattice structures are becoming an increasingly attractive design approach for the most diverse engineering applications. This increase in popularity is mainly due to their high specific strength and stiffness, considerable heat dissipation, and relatively light weight, among many other advantages. Additive manufacturing techniques [...] Read more.
Lattice structures are becoming an increasingly attractive design approach for the most diverse engineering applications. This increase in popularity is mainly due to their high specific strength and stiffness, considerable heat dissipation, and relatively light weight, among many other advantages. Additive manufacturing techniques have made it possible to achieve greater flexibility and resolution, enabling more complex and better-performing lattice structures. Unrestricted material unit cell designs are often associated with high computational power and connectivity problems, and highly restricted lattice unit cell designs may not reach the optimal desired properties despite their lower computational cost. This work focuses on increasing the flexibility of a restricted unit cell design while achieving a lower computational cost. It is based on a two-scale concurrent optimization of the lattice structure, which involves simultaneously optimizing the topology at both the macro- and micro-scales to achieve an optimal topology. To ensure a continuous optimization approach, surrogate models are used to define material and geometrical properties. The elasticity tensors for a lattice unit cell are obtained using an energy-based homogenization method combined with voxelization. A multi-variable parameterization of the material unit cell is defined to allow for the synthesis of functionally graded lattice structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Modelling of Composites, Volume III)
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13 pages, 3920 KiB  
Article
Jasmonate Promotes Ester Aroma Biosynthesis during Nanguo Pears Storage
by Liyong Qi, Chuhan Li, Jianan Sun, Weiting Liu, Yueming Yang, Xiaojing Li, Hongjian Li, Yuqi Du, Islam Mostafa and Zepeng Yin
Horticulturae 2024, 10(4), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040329 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been known to confer the flavor of fruits, characterizing the quality of fruits. Nanguo pear (Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim.) is widely popular among consumers due to its excellent ‘fruity’ aroma derived from ester aroma substances. Jasmonate (JAs) plays [...] Read more.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been known to confer the flavor of fruits, characterizing the quality of fruits. Nanguo pear (Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim.) is widely popular among consumers due to its excellent ‘fruity’ aroma derived from ester aroma substances. Jasmonate (JAs) plays an indispensable role in the formation of many qualities in fruit. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the effect of jasmonate on the VOCs in the Nanguo pear fruit during storage. During storage, the fruits were treated with various concentrations of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and sodium diethyldithiocarbamate (DIECA, a JAs inhibitor), the inhibitors of JAs biosynthesis. Subsequently, the composition and levels of VOCs in the fruits were determined using GC-MS. The results showed that 100 uM MeJA treatment could promote the accumulation of ester aroma compounds in Nanguo pear fruits, while 100 mM DIECA had the opposite effect. Meantime, MeJA treatment significantly promoted peel degreening, soluble solids content (SSC), fruit softening, and ethylene formation. The RT-qPCR results showed that JAs stimulated the expression of PuAAT1 and repressed the expression of PuCXEs, leading to an increased accumulation of ester aroma compounds. Overall, these results provide a reference for further research on the effect of JAs on fruit aroma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Physiology Studies in Fruit Development and Ripening)
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11 pages, 4122 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of a Novel 3D Extrusion Bioink Containing Processed Human Articular Cartilage Matrix for Cartilage Tissue Engineering
by Alexandra Hunter Aitchison, Nicholas B. Allen, Isabel R. Shaffrey, Conor N. O’Neill, Bijan Abar, Albert T. Anastasio and Samuel B. Adams
Bioengineering 2024, 11(4), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11040329 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Cartilage damage presents a significant clinical challenge due to its intrinsic avascular nature which limits self-repair. Addressing this, our study focuses on an alginate-based bioink, integrating human articular cartilage, for cartilage tissue engineering. This novel bioink was formulated by encapsulating C20A4 human articular [...] Read more.
Cartilage damage presents a significant clinical challenge due to its intrinsic avascular nature which limits self-repair. Addressing this, our study focuses on an alginate-based bioink, integrating human articular cartilage, for cartilage tissue engineering. This novel bioink was formulated by encapsulating C20A4 human articular chondrocytes in sodium alginate, polyvinyl alcohol, gum arabic, and cartilage extracellular matrix powder sourced from allograft femoral condyle shavings. Using a 3D bioprinter, constructs were biofabricated and cross-linked, followed by culture in standard medium. Evaluations were conducted on cellular viability and gene expression at various stages. Results indicated that the printed constructs maintained a porous structure conducive to cell growth. Cellular viability was 87% post printing, which decreased to 76% after seven days, and significantly recovered to 86% by day 14. There was also a notable upregulation of chondrogenic genes, COL2A1 (p = 0.008) and SOX9 (p = 0.021), suggesting an enhancement in cartilage formation. This study concludes that the innovative bioink shows promise for cartilage regeneration, demonstrating substantial viability and gene expression conducive to repair and suggesting its potential for future therapeutic applications in cartilage repair. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Bone and Cartilage Tissue Engineering)
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11 pages, 430 KiB  
Article
Revisiting the Surface Brightness Profile of the Stellar Disk with the Statistical Mechanics of the Self-Gravitating System with the Central Body
by Dong-Biao Kang
Entropy 2024, 26(4), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26040297 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
We have explored the exponential surface brightness profile (SBP) of stellar disks, a topic extensively discussed by many authors yet seldom integrated with the study of correlations between black holes, bulges, and entire disks. Building upon our prior work in the statistical mechanics [...] Read more.
We have explored the exponential surface brightness profile (SBP) of stellar disks, a topic extensively discussed by many authors yet seldom integrated with the study of correlations between black holes, bulges, and entire disks. Building upon our prior work in the statistical mechanics of disk-shaped systems and aligning with methodologies from other research, we analyze the influence of the central body. This analysis reveals analytical relationships among black holes, bulges, and the entire stellar disk. Additionally, we incorporate a specific angular momentum distribution (SAMD) that aligns more closely with observational data, showing that for the self-gravitating disk, with the same surface density, a reduction in its spin results in only a slight decrease in its radius, whereas with the same SAMD, an increment in its spin significantly limits its extent. A key feature of our model is its prediction that the surface density profile of an isolated disk will invariably exhibit downbending at a sufficient distance, a hypothesis that future observations can test. Our refined equations provide a notably improved fit for SBPs, particularly in the central regions of stellar disks. While our findings underscore the significance of statistical mechanics in comprehending spiral galaxy structures, they also highlight areas in our approach that warrant further discussion and exploration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Statistical Mechanics of Self-Gravitating Systems)
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20 pages, 6068 KiB  
Article
A Real-Time Prediction Approach to Deep Soil Moisture Combining GNSS-R Data and a Water Movement Model in Unsaturated Soil
by Xiaotian Luo, Cong Yin, Yueqiang Sun, Weihua Bai, Wei Li and Hongqing Song
Water 2024, 16(7), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16070979 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Deep soil moisture data have wide applications in fields such as engineering construction and agricultural production. Therefore, achieving the real-time monitoring of deep soil moisture is of significant importance. Current soil monitoring methods face challenges in conducting the large-scale, real-time monitoring of deep [...] Read more.
Deep soil moisture data have wide applications in fields such as engineering construction and agricultural production. Therefore, achieving the real-time monitoring of deep soil moisture is of significant importance. Current soil monitoring methods face challenges in conducting the large-scale, real-time monitoring of deep soil moisture. This paper innovatively proposes a real-time prediction approach to deep soil moisture combining GNSS-R data and a water movement model in unsaturated soil. This approach, built upon surface soil moisture data retrieved from GNSS-R signal inversion, integrates soil–water characteristics and soil moisture values at a depth of 1 m. By employing a deep soil moisture content prediction model, it provides predictions of soil moisture at depths from 0 to 1 m, thus realizing the large-scale, real-time dynamic monitoring of deep soil moisture. The proposed approach was validated in a study area in Goodwell, Texas County, Oklahoma, USA. Predicted values of soil moisture at a randomly selected location in the study area at depths of 0.1 m, 0.2 m, 0.5 m, and 1 m were compared with ground truth values for the period from 25 October to 19 November 2023. The results indicated that the relative error (δ) was controlled within the range of ±14%. The mean square error (MSE) ranged from 2.90 × 105 to 1.88 × 104, and the coefficient of determination (R2) ranged from 82.45% to 89.88%, indicating an overall high level of fitting between the predicted values and ground truth data. This validates the feasibility of the proposed approach, which has the potential to play a crucial role in agricultural production, geological disaster management, engineering construction, and heritage site preservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Geophysical Methods for Hydrogeology)
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16 pages, 3823 KiB  
Article
Transcriptional Changes in Radiation-Induced Lung Injury: A Comparative Analysis of Two Radiation Doses for Preclinical Research
by Mohamed El-Agamy Farh, Hyun-Jin Kim, Sang-Yeon Kim, Jae-Hee Lee, Hajeong Lee, Ronglan Cui, Soorim Han, Dong Wook Kim, Sunjoo Park, Yoon-Jin Lee, Yun-Sil Lee, Insuk Sohn and Jaeho Cho
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3766; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073766 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
In a recent stereotactic body radiation therapy animal model, radiation pneumonitis and radiation pulmonary fibrosis were observed at around 2 and 6 weeks, respectively. However, the molecular signature of this model remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the molecular characteristics at these [...] Read more.
In a recent stereotactic body radiation therapy animal model, radiation pneumonitis and radiation pulmonary fibrosis were observed at around 2 and 6 weeks, respectively. However, the molecular signature of this model remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the molecular characteristics at these two stages using RNA-seq analysis. Transcriptomic profiling revealed distinct transcriptional patterns for each stage. Inflammatory response and immune cell activation were involved in both stages. Cell cycle processes and response to type II interferons were observed during the inflammation stage. Extracellular matrix organization and immunoglobulin production were noted during the fibrosis stage. To investigate the impact of a 10 Gy difference on fibrosis progression, doses of 45, 55, and 65 Gy were tested. A dose of 65 Gy was selected and compared with 75 Gy. The 65 Gy dose induced inflammation and fibrosis as well as the 75 Gy dose, but with reduced lung damage, fewer inflammatory cells, and decreased collagen deposition, particularly during the inflammation stage. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant overlap, but differences were observed and clarified in Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analysis, potentially influenced by changes in interferon-gamma-mediated lipid metabolism. This suggests the suitability of 65 Gy for future preclinical basic and pharmaceutical research connected with radiation-induced lung injury. Full article
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18 pages, 647 KiB  
Review
Classification of Green Practices Implemented in Ports: The Application of Green Technologies, Tools, and Strategies
by Konstantia Karagkouni and Maria Boile
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(4), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12040571 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study reviews and categorises ports’ green initiatives to reduce their polluting emissions and improve their overall environmental performance. These categories facilitate comparisons between different practices and allow the identification of common trends and challenges. Through a systematic review that combines both academic [...] Read more.
This study reviews and categorises ports’ green initiatives to reduce their polluting emissions and improve their overall environmental performance. These categories facilitate comparisons between different practices and allow the identification of common trends and challenges. Through a systematic review that combines both academic and industry sources, green port practices including strategies, tools, infrastructures, and initiatives were identified. This methodology enhances the credibility and reliability of the findings by thoroughly reviewing the available literature and data. Overall, 380 records of green practices explored by ports and port-related stakeholders worldwide have been reviewed. The practices’ main elements, characteristics, implementation challenges, and indicative environmental outcomes are highlighted. The results show that the most commonly discussed green solutions are driven mainly by the regulation requirements and ports’ own interest to develop environmentally friendly operations, while at the same time remaining competitive in terms of sustainability in the port industry. Consequently, the most widely explored solutions include (i) Shore Side Electricity–Onshore Power Supply, (ii) alternative fuels, (iii) circular economy, and (iv) waste management. Full article
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23 pages, 2659 KiB  
Systematic Review
Estimation of Kinetics Using IMUs to Monitor and Aid in Clinical Decision-Making during ACL Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review
by Sanchana Krishnakumar, Bert-Jan F. van Beijnum, Chris T. M. Baten, Peter H. Veltink and Jaap H. Buurke
Sensors 2024, 24(7), 2163; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24072163 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
After an ACL injury, rehabilitation consists of multiple phases, and progress between these phases is guided by subjective visual assessments of activities such as running, hopping, jump landing, etc. Estimation of objective kinetic measures like knee joint moments and GRF during assessment can [...] Read more.
After an ACL injury, rehabilitation consists of multiple phases, and progress between these phases is guided by subjective visual assessments of activities such as running, hopping, jump landing, etc. Estimation of objective kinetic measures like knee joint moments and GRF during assessment can help physiotherapists gain insights on knee loading and tailor rehabilitation protocols. Conventional methods deployed to estimate kinetics require complex, expensive systems and are limited to laboratory settings. Alternatively, multiple algorithms have been proposed in the literature to estimate kinetics from kinematics measured using only IMUs. However, the knowledge about their accuracy and generalizability for patient populations is still limited. Therefore, this article aims to identify the available algorithms for the estimation of kinetic parameters using kinematics measured only from IMUs and to evaluate their applicability in ACL rehabilitation through a comprehensive systematic review. The papers identified through the search were categorized based on the modelling techniques and kinetic parameters of interest, and subsequently compared based on the accuracies achieved and applicability for ACL patients during rehabilitation. IMUs have exhibited potential in estimating kinetic parameters with good accuracy, particularly for sagittal movements in healthy cohorts. However, several shortcomings were identified and future directions for improvement have been proposed, including extension of proposed algorithms to accommodate multiplanar movements and validation of the proposed techniques in diverse patient populations and in particular the ACL population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wearables)
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14 pages, 1744 KiB  
Article
Catalase Detection via Membrane-Based Pressure Sensors
by Monica Bianco, Alessandra Zizzari, Elisabetta Perrone, Diego Mangiullo, Marco Mazzeo, Ilenia Viola and Valentina Arima
Molecules 2024, 29(7), 1506; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29071506 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Membrane-based sensors (MePSs) exhibit remarkable precision and sensitivity in detecting pressure changes. MePSs are commonly used to monitor catalytic reactions in solution, generating gas products crucial for signal amplification in bioassays. They also allow for catalyst quantification by indirectly measuring the pressure generated [...] Read more.
Membrane-based sensors (MePSs) exhibit remarkable precision and sensitivity in detecting pressure changes. MePSs are commonly used to monitor catalytic reactions in solution, generating gas products crucial for signal amplification in bioassays. They also allow for catalyst quantification by indirectly measuring the pressure generated by the gaseous products. This is particularly interesting for detecting enzymes in biofluids associated with disease onset. To enhance the performance of a MePS, various structural factors influence membrane flexibility and response time, ultimately dictating the device’s pressure sensitivity. In this study, we fabricated MePSs using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and investigated how structural modifications affect the Young’s modulus (E) and residual stress (σ0) of the membranes. These modifications have a direct impact on the sensors’ sensitivity to pressure variations, observed as a function of the volume of the chamber (Σ) or of the mechanical properties of the membrane itself (S). MePSs exhibiting the highest sensitivities were then employed to detect catalyst quantities inducing the dismutation of hydrogen peroxide, producing dioxygen as a gaseous product. As a result, a catalase enzyme was successfully detected using these optimized MePSs, achieving a remarkable sensitivity of (22.7 ± 1.2) µm/nM and a limit of detection (LoD) of 396 pM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Functional Materials for Sensor Applications)
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21 pages, 7897 KiB  
Article
A Multi-Fidelity Uncertainty Propagation Model for Multi-Dimensional Correlated Flow Field Responses
by Jiangtao Chen, Jiao Zhao, Wei Xiao, Luogeng Lv, Wei Zhao and Xiaojun Wu
Aerospace 2024, 11(4), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11040263 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Given the randomness inherent in fluid dynamics problems and limitations in human cognition, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling and simulation are afflicted with non-negligible uncertainties, casting doubts on the credibility of CFD. Scientifically and rigorously quantifying the uncertainty of CFD is paramount for [...] Read more.
Given the randomness inherent in fluid dynamics problems and limitations in human cognition, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling and simulation are afflicted with non-negligible uncertainties, casting doubts on the credibility of CFD. Scientifically and rigorously quantifying the uncertainty of CFD is paramount for assessing its credibility and informing engineering decisions. In order to quantify the uncertainty of multidimensional flow field responses stemming from uncertain model parameters, this paper proposes a method based on Gappy Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) for supplementing high-fidelity flow field data within a framework that leverages POD and surrogate models. This approach enables the generation of corresponding high-fidelity flow fields from low-fidelity ones, significantly reducing the cost of high-fidelity flow field computation in uncertainty propagation modeling. Through an analysis of the impact of uncertainty in the coefficients of the Spalart–Allmaras (SA) turbulence model on the distribution of wall friction coefficients for the NACA0012 airfoil and pressure coefficients for the M6 wing, the proposed multi-fidelity modeling approach is demonstrated to offer significant advancements in both accuracy and efficiency compared to single-fidelity methods, providing a robust and efficient prediction model for large-scale random sampling. Full article
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23 pages, 6150 KiB  
Article
Mechanisms of PM10 Disruption of the Nrf2 Pathway in Cornea
by Mallika Somayajulu, Farooq S. Muhammed, Robert Wright, Sharon A. McClellan and Linda D. Hazlett
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3754; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073754 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
We have previously shown that PM10 exposure causes oxidative stress and reduces Nrf2 protein levels, and SKQ1 pre-treatment protects against this damage in human corneal epithelial cells (HCE-2). The current study focuses on uncovering the mechanisms underlying acute PM10 toxicity and [...] Read more.
We have previously shown that PM10 exposure causes oxidative stress and reduces Nrf2 protein levels, and SKQ1 pre-treatment protects against this damage in human corneal epithelial cells (HCE-2). The current study focuses on uncovering the mechanisms underlying acute PM10 toxicity and SKQ1-mediated protection. HCE-2 were pre-treated with SKQ1 and then exposed to 100 μg/mL PM10. Cell viability, oxidative stress markers, programmed cell death, DNA damage, senescence markers, and pro-inflammatory cytokines were analyzed. Nrf2 cellular location and its transcriptional activity were determined. Effects of the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 were similarly evaluated. Data showed that PM10 decreased cell viability, Nrf2 transcriptional activity, and mRNA levels of antioxidant enzymes, but increased p-PI3K, p-NFκB, COX-2, and iNOS proteins levels. Additionally, PM10 exposure significantly increased DNA damage, phosphor-p53, p16 and p21 protein levels, and β-galactosidase (β-gal) staining, which confirmed the senescence. SKQ1 pre-treatment reversed these effects. ML385 lowered the Nrf2 protein levels and mRNA levels of its downstream targets. ML385 also abrogated the protective effects of SKQ1 against PM10 toxicity by preventing the restoration of cell viability and reduced oxidative stress. In conclusion, PM10 induces inflammation, reduces Nrf2 transcriptional activity, and causes DNA damage, leading to a senescence-like phenotype, which is prevented by SKQ1. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Programmed Cell Death and Oxidative Stress 2.0)
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13 pages, 6001 KiB  
Article
Shape Sensing for Continuum Robotics Using Optoelectronic Sensors with Convex Reflectors
by Dalia Osman, Xinli Du, Timothy Minton and Yohan Noh
Electronics 2024, 13(7), 1253; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13071253 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Three-dimensional shape sensing in soft and continuum robotics is a crucial aspect for stable actuation and control in fields such as minimally invasive surgery, engine repairs and search and rescue operations, as the estimation of complex curvatures while using continuum robotic tools is [...] Read more.
Three-dimensional shape sensing in soft and continuum robotics is a crucial aspect for stable actuation and control in fields such as minimally invasive surgery, engine repairs and search and rescue operations, as the estimation of complex curvatures while using continuum robotic tools is required to manipulate through fragile paths. This challenge has been addressed using a range of different sensing techniques, for example, Fibre Bragg grating (FBG) technology, inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor networks, or stretch sensors. Previously, an optics-based method using optoelectronic sensors was explored, offering a simple and cost-effective solution for shape sensing in a flexible tendon-actuated manipulator in two orientations. This was based on proximity-modulated angle estimation and has been the basis for the shape sensing method addressed in this paper. The improved and miniaturised technique demonstrated in this paper is based on the use of a convex shaped reflector with optoelectronic sensors integrated into a tendon-actuated robotic manipulator. Upgraded sensing capability is achieved using optimisation of the convex reflector shape in terms of sensor range and resolution, and improved calibration is achieved through the integration of spherical bearings for friction-free motion. Shape estimation is achieved in two orientations upon calibration of sensors, with a maximum Root-Mean-Square Error (RMS) of 3.37°. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Robots in Medical and Industrial Applications)
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19 pages, 1763 KiB  
Article
Estimating Lung Volume Capacity from X-ray Images Using Deep Learning
by Samip Ghimire and Santosh Subedi
Quantum Beam Sci. 2024, 8(2), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/qubs8020011 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Estimating lung volume capacity is crucial in clinical medicine, especially in disease diagnostics. However, the existing estimation methods are complex and expensive, which require experts to handle and consequently are more error-prone and time-consuming. Thus, developing an automatic measurement system without a human [...] Read more.
Estimating lung volume capacity is crucial in clinical medicine, especially in disease diagnostics. However, the existing estimation methods are complex and expensive, which require experts to handle and consequently are more error-prone and time-consuming. Thus, developing an automatic measurement system without a human operator that is less prone to human error and, thus, more accurate has always been a prerequisite. The limitation of radiation dose and various medical conditions in technologies like computed tomography was also the primary concern in the past. Although qualitative prediction of lung volume may be a trivial task, designing clinically relevant and automated methods that effectively incorporate imaging data is a challenging problem. This paper proposes a novel multi-tasking-based automatic lung volume estimation method using deep learning that jointly learns segmentation and regression of volume estimation. The two networks, namely, segmentation and regression networks, are sequentially operated with some shared layers. The segmentation network segments the X-ray images, whose output is regressed by the regression network to determine the final lung volume. Besides, the dataset used in the proposed method is collected from three different secondary sources. The experimental results show that the proposed multi-tasking approach performs better than the individual networks. Further analysis of the multi-tasking approach with two different networks, namely, UNet and HRNet, shows that the network with HRNet performs better than the network with UNet with less volume estimation mean square error of 0.0010. Full article
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18 pages, 892 KiB  
Review
Innovations in Medicine: Exploring ChatGPT’s Impact on Rare Disorder Management
by Stefania Zampatti, Cristina Peconi, Domenica Megalizzi, Giulia Calvino, Giulia Trastulli, Raffaella Cascella, Claudia Strafella, Carlo Caltagirone and Emiliano Giardina
Genes 2024, 15(4), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15040421 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the field of medicine, announcing a new era of innovation and efficiency. Among AI programs designed for general use, ChatGPT holds a prominent position, using an innovative language model developed by OpenAI. Thanks to the use of [...] Read more.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the field of medicine, announcing a new era of innovation and efficiency. Among AI programs designed for general use, ChatGPT holds a prominent position, using an innovative language model developed by OpenAI. Thanks to the use of deep learning techniques, ChatGPT stands out as an exceptionally viable tool, renowned for generating human-like responses to queries. Various medical specialties, including rheumatology, oncology, psychiatry, internal medicine, and ophthalmology, have been explored for ChatGPT integration, with pilot studies and trials revealing each field’s potential benefits and challenges. However, the field of genetics and genetic counseling, as well as that of rare disorders, represents an area suitable for exploration, with its complex datasets and the need for personalized patient care. In this review, we synthesize the wide range of potential applications for ChatGPT in the medical field, highlighting its benefits and limitations. We pay special attention to rare and genetic disorders, aiming to shed light on the future roles of AI-driven chatbots in healthcare. Our goal is to pave the way for a healthcare system that is more knowledgeable, efficient, and centered around patient needs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Genomics of Rare Disorders Volume II)
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14 pages, 4259 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Neuromuscular Diseases and Complaints by Quantitative Muscle MRI
by Lara Schlaffke, Robert Rehmann, Anne-Katrin Güttsches, Matthias Vorgerd, Christine H. Meyer-Frie?em, Hubert R. Dinse, Elena Enax-Krumova, Martijn Froeling and Johannes Forsting
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1958; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071958 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Quantitative muscle MRI (qMRI) is a promising tool for evaluating and monitoring neuromuscular disorders (NMD). However, the application of different imaging protocols and processing pipelines restricts comparison between patient cohorts and disorders. In this qMRI study, we aim to compare dystrophic (limb-girdle [...] Read more.
Background: Quantitative muscle MRI (qMRI) is a promising tool for evaluating and monitoring neuromuscular disorders (NMD). However, the application of different imaging protocols and processing pipelines restricts comparison between patient cohorts and disorders. In this qMRI study, we aim to compare dystrophic (limb-girdle muscular dystrophy), inflammatory (inclusion body myositis), and metabolic myopathy (Pompe disease) as well as patients with post-COVID-19 conditions suffering from myalgia to healthy controls. Methods: Ten subjects of each group underwent a 3T lower extremity muscle MRI, including a multi-echo, gradient-echo, Dixon-based sequence, a multi-echo, spin-echo (MESE) T2 mapping sequence, and a spin-echo EPI diffusion-weighted sequence. Furthermore, the following clinical assessments were performed: Quick Motor Function Measure, patient questionnaires for daily life activities, and 6-min walking distance. Results: Different involvement patterns of conspicuous qMRI parameters for different NMDs were observed. qMRI metrics correlated significantly with clinical assessments. Conclusions: qMRI metrics are suitable for evaluating patients with NMD since they show differences in muscular involvement in different NMDs and correlate with clinical assessments. Still, standardisation of acquisition and processing is needed for broad clinical use. Full article
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7 pages, 1236 KiB  
Short Note
(E)-1-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-5-methyl-4-(1-phenyl-4-((2-(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)hydrazineylidene)methyl)-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-1H-1,2,3-triazole
by Bakr F. Abdel-Wahab, Hanan A. Mohamed, Benson M. Kariuki and Gamal A. El-Hiti
Molbank 2024, 2024(2), M1798; https://doi.org/10.3390/M1798 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The reaction of equimolar quantities of 3-(1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5-methyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde and (2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)hydrazine in ethanol containing concentrated hydrochloric acid (0.2 mL; 37%) as a catalyst under reflux for 2 h yielded 1-(1-(benzofuran-2-yl)ethylidene)-2-(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)hydrazine. The crude produced was purified by crystallization using dimethylformamide to provide [...] Read more.
The reaction of equimolar quantities of 3-(1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5-methyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde and (2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)hydrazine in ethanol containing concentrated hydrochloric acid (0.2 mL; 37%) as a catalyst under reflux for 2 h yielded 1-(1-(benzofuran-2-yl)ethylidene)-2-(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)hydrazine. The crude produced was purified by crystallization using dimethylformamide to provide the title heterocycle in a 95% yield. The structure of the newly synthesized heterocycle was confirmed through X-ray diffraction and spectral analyses. Full article
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15 pages, 4445 KiB  
Article
Hippocampal Lactate-Infusion Enhances Spatial Memory Correlated with Monocarboxylate Transporter 2 and Lactylation
by Yuhan Wu, Hui Hu, Weiwei Liu, Yun Zhao, Fang Xie, Zhaowei Sun, Ling Zhang, Huafeng Dong, Xue Wang and Lingjia Qian
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(4), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14040327 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Lactate has emerged as a key player in regulating neural functions and cognitive processes. Beyond its function as an energy substrate and signal molecule, recent research has revealed lactate to serve as an epigenetic regulator in the brain. However, the molecular mechanisms by [...] Read more.
Lactate has emerged as a key player in regulating neural functions and cognitive processes. Beyond its function as an energy substrate and signal molecule, recent research has revealed lactate to serve as an epigenetic regulator in the brain. However, the molecular mechanisms by which lactate regulates spatial memory and its role in the prevention of cognitive disorders remain unclear. Herein, we injected L-lactate (10 μmol/kg/d for 6 d) into the mouse’s hippocampus, followed by the Morris water maze (MWM) test and molecular analyses. Improved spatial memory performances were observed in mice injected with lactate. Besides, lactate upregulated the expression of synaptic proteins post-synaptic density 95 (PSD95), synaptophysin (SYP), and growth associated protein 43 (GAP43) in hippocampal tissues and HT22 cells, suggesting a potential role in synaptic transmission and memory formation. The facilitative role of monocarboxylate transporter 2 (MCT2), a neuron-specific lactate transporter, in this process was confirmed, as MCT2 antagonists attenuated the lactate-induced upregulation of synaptic proteins. Moreover, lactate induced protein lactylation, a post-translational modification, which could be suppressed by MCT2 inhibition. RNA sequencing of lactated-injected hippocampal tissues revealed a comprehensive gene expression profile influenced by lactate, with significant changes in genes associated with transcriptional progress. These data demonstrate that hippocampal lactate injection enhances spatial memory in mice, potentially through the upregulation of synaptic proteins and induction of protein lactylation, with MCT2 playing a crucial role in these processes. Our findings shed light on the multi-faceted role of lactate in neural function and memory regulation, opening new avenues for therapeutic interventions targeting cognitive disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience)
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