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3 pages, 2938 KiB  
Interesting Images
Bilateral Maxillary Duplication in Tessier No. 7 Cleft: An Uncommon Congenital Deformity with a Challenging Radiological Diagnosis
by Svetlana Antic, Djurdja Bracanovic, Aleksa Janovic, Goran Krstic, Djordje Plavsic and Biljana Markovic Vasiljkovic
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 714; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070714 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Tessier No. 7 cleft, known as lateral facial cleft, is a rare and understudied entity with an incidence of 1/80,000–1/300,000 live births. Besides perioral tissue abnormalities manifesting as macrostomia, Tessier 7 cleft also involves anomalies of the underlying bony structures. It can appear [...] Read more.
Tessier No. 7 cleft, known as lateral facial cleft, is a rare and understudied entity with an incidence of 1/80,000–1/300,000 live births. Besides perioral tissue abnormalities manifesting as macrostomia, Tessier 7 cleft also involves anomalies of the underlying bony structures. It can appear as part of a syndrome, such as Treacher-Collins syndrome or Goldenhar/Orbito-Auriculo-Vestibular Spectrum, or as an isolated form (unilateral or bilateral) with variable expressions. Bilateral maxillary duplication in Tessier 7 cleft is considered extremely rare, accounting for only two previously presented cases. Given that the cases presented in the literature mainly focus on clinical appearance and surgical treatment, without providing sufficient imaging, we aim to present key radiological features of Tessier 7 cleft in terms of evaluating the involved structures, which is essential for the therapeutic approach and final outcome. A 17-year-old male with incompetent lips and orthodontic abnormalities was referred to our Radiology Department for orthopantomography (OPG) and CT examinations. Hetero-anamnestic data revealed a history of surgical treatment of the commissural cleft conducted 2 months after the birth to enable feeding. Intraoral examination showed a maxillary cleft and supernumerary teeth. Since the given clinical presentation was inconclusive, radiological diagnostics took precedence in elucidating this complex entity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral and Maxillofacial Image Diagnosis 2.0)
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18 pages, 1315 KiB  
Review
Stem Cells Collection and Mobilization in Adult Autologous/Allogeneic Transplantation: Critical Points and Future Challenges
by Michele Prisciandaro, Enrico Santinelli, Valeria Tomarchio, Maria Antonietta Tafuri, Cecilia Bonchi, Gloria Palazzo, Carolina Nobile, Alessandra Marinucci, Marcella Mele, Ombretta Annibali, Luigi Rigacci and Michele Vacca
Cells 2024, 13(7), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13070586 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Achieving successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) relies on two fundamental pillars: effective mobilization and efficient collection through apheresis to attain the optimal graft dose. These cornerstones pave the way for enhanced patient outcomes. The primary challenges encountered by the clinical unit and [...] Read more.
Achieving successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) relies on two fundamental pillars: effective mobilization and efficient collection through apheresis to attain the optimal graft dose. These cornerstones pave the way for enhanced patient outcomes. The primary challenges encountered by the clinical unit and collection facility within a transplant program encompass augmenting mobilization efficiency to optimize the harvest of target cell populations, implementing robust monitoring and predictive strategies for mobilization, streamlining the apheresis procedure to minimize collection duration while ensuring adequate yield, prioritizing patient comfort by reducing the overall collection time, guaranteeing the quality and purity of stem cell products to optimize graft function and transplant success, and facilitating seamless coordination between diverse entities involved in the HSCT process. In this review, we aim to address key questions and provide insights into the critical aspects of mobilizing and collecting hematopoietic stem cells for transplantation purposes. Full article
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9 pages, 4480 KiB  
Article
Augmentation Rhinoplasty and Centrofacial Lipofilling: Our Experience (ARCL)
by Mirco Pozzi, Pietro Susini, Davide di Seclì, Michela Schettino, Luca Grimaldi, Roberto Cuomo and Carlos Weck Roxo
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1965; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071965 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Augmentation rhinoplasty traditionally represents a serious challenge for plastic surgeons. The association with centrofacial lipofilling is a great approach to achieve harmonious, aesthetic results. The aim of this article is to describe our personal association between Augmentation Rhinoplasty and Centrofacial Lipofilling (ARCL) [...] Read more.
Introduction: Augmentation rhinoplasty traditionally represents a serious challenge for plastic surgeons. The association with centrofacial lipofilling is a great approach to achieve harmonious, aesthetic results. The aim of this article is to describe our personal association between Augmentation Rhinoplasty and Centrofacial Lipofilling (ARCL) in non-Caucasian patients. Materials and Methods: In this study, we retrospectively reviewed patients treated with ARCL at our institution between January 2019 and December 2023. We described our personal approach and technique. At a minimum follow-up time of one year, post-operative pictures were taken, and patients were reassessed, evaluating aspects such as global symmetry, shape and contour of the nose, and facial harmony and rejuvenation; finally, patients’ satisfaction was investigated according to the ROE questionnaire and the modified S-GAIS. Results: A total of 307 patients were included in the study. They reported a significant satisfactory aesthetic result in nasal image and facial harmony, as the mean postoperative ROE and S-GAIS score show. None of the grafts extruded or collapsed. Wounds healed without reported major infection. Conclusions: This study has demonstrated that ARCL is a safe approach that contributes to improve functional and aesthetic outcomes, has a high patient satisfaction rate, and limited post-operative complications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Facial Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery)
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16 pages, 7162 KiB  
Article
A Comprehensive Assessment of Al-Si Coating Growth at Various Heating Rates, Soaking Temperatures, and Times
by Siyu Wu, Alexander Bardelcik, Constantin Chiriac and Cangji Shi
Coatings 2024, 14(4), 399; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14040399 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
In conventional hot stamping, an Al-Si-coated blank is first heated above the austenitization temperature and then soaked for a period of time within a furnace, prior to the stamping operation. In this work, the impacts of furnace heating rate, soaking temperature, and soaking [...] Read more.
In conventional hot stamping, an Al-Si-coated blank is first heated above the austenitization temperature and then soaked for a period of time within a furnace, prior to the stamping operation. In this work, the impacts of furnace heating rate, soaking temperature, and soaking time on the Al-Si coating evolution were investigated for two commercial coating weights, 80 and 150 g/m2. These heat treatment parameters during heating and soaking affect the coating microstructure and the thickness of the interdiffusion layer, which affect the properties of the as-formed coatings. The transformation and growth of binary Fe-Al and ternary Fe-Al-Si intermetallic layers were characterized and quantified for soak times up to 240 s. The results show that the effect of the heating rate on the Al-Si intermetallic distribution and ternary phase morphology was more severe than the soaking time and soaking temperature. The Fe2Al5 (η) phase was the dominant layer at the beginning of the soaking stage with a Fe3Al2Si3 (τ1) layer formed within it, and then the Fe3Al2Si3 layer transformed into FeAl (β2) as the soaking time increased due to the interdiffusion of Fe and Al. The transformation of Fe3Al2Si3 to FeAl occurred at a higher rate for elevated soaking temperatures due to the greater diffusivity of Al and Fe. The interdiffusion layer (IDL) consisted of FeAl,Fe3Al(β1) and αFe. Higher soaking temperatures of 1000 °C resulted in a thicker IDL for the same soak time when compared with 900 °C and 950 °C, but when the heating rate was lower, the IDL was thicker than that at the higher heating rate since a longer heating time was required to reach the soaking temperature of 900 °C, which prolonged the diffusion time during the heating stage. The findings were similar for AS80. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress on Functional Films and Surface Science)
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31 pages, 4467 KiB  
Article
Fostering the “Performativity” of Performance Information Use by Decision-Makers through Dynamic Performance Management: Evidence from Action Research in a Local Area
by Vincenzo Vignieri and Noemi Grippi
Systems 2024, 12(4), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems12040115 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
A local area configures a socio-economic system in which several institutions interact. As stakeholders hold different values and perhaps conflicting interests, managing local area performance is a dynamic and complex issue. In these inter-institutional settings, performance management may help address such complexity. Traditional [...] Read more.
A local area configures a socio-economic system in which several institutions interact. As stakeholders hold different values and perhaps conflicting interests, managing local area performance is a dynamic and complex issue. In these inter-institutional settings, performance management may help address such complexity. Traditional performance management approaches, mostly based on static and linear analysis, fail to capture the dynamic complexity of local-area performance, bounding decision-makers’ mindsets to an organizational view of performance. Overcoming such limitations requires methods oriented to grasp a better understanding of the social reality in which their institutions operate. This contribution aims to illustrate how the Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) approach may foster a “performative” (We are indebted to Maria Cleofe Giorgino and Federico Barnabè, who illustrated the “performative” potential of “calculative practices” at the Workshop “Le sfide della sostenibilità. Profili aziendali e giuridici” organized by the Department of Business and Law Studies at the University of Siena, 11 October 2023. Such a perspective on the “performativity” of performance information use has remarkably enriched the conceptual positioning of our paper) use of performance information by decision-makers in inter-institutional settings. To this end, the article highlights the importance of designing conducive learning settings (i.e., action research enhanced by a system dynamics-based interactive learning environment) to support decision-makers make such a cognitive leap. Drawing from empirical evidence on destination governance studies, the article shows that enriching performance management with system dynamics modeling may help decision-makers to reflect on key issues impacting local area development, sparking a discussion on potential actions to balance economic, social, and competitive dimensions of performance. Findings reveal that DPM insight modeling holds explanatory and communicative potential in real forums by providing decision-makers with an understanding of the means-end relationships linking strategic resources to outcomes through value drivers. The use of such performance information can help local area stakeholders to (re)conceptualize the social reality in which their institutions operate. By acting as a “maieutic machine”, DPM fosters a shift from an organizational and static to an inter-organizational and dynamic view of local area performance. Implications of the study include the opportunity to provide training to strengthen the active use of performance information by decision-makers in inter-institutional settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Systems Thinking Approach to Strategic Management)
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15 pages, 584 KiB  
Article
Low Rate of Postoperative Pterygium Recurrence in Patients under Treatment with Low-Dose Oral Doxycycline for Chronic Blepharitis: A First Report
by Fiammetta Catania, Paolo Vinciguerra and Alessandra Di Maria
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070715 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Purpose: Low doses of systemic doxycycline (LD-SD) inhibit angiogenesis and the expression of matrix metalloproteases, which are determinants of pterygium progression. This study aimed to compare the recurrence rate and visual outcome of pterygium excision in patients undergoing chronic treatment with LD-SD for [...] Read more.
Purpose: Low doses of systemic doxycycline (LD-SD) inhibit angiogenesis and the expression of matrix metalloproteases, which are determinants of pterygium progression. This study aimed to compare the recurrence rate and visual outcome of pterygium excision in patients undergoing chronic treatment with LD-SD for chronic refractory blepharitis and LD-SD-naive patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients that underwent surgical excision and conjunctival graft apposition was conducted. Patients were divided in a TETRA group (under LD-SD treatment at the moment of surgery) and a control group. The main outcome was the rate of recurrence at 1 year postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were the comparisons of surface regularity, visual quality, and dry-eye symptoms at 6-week, 6-month, and 1-year follow-up in the two groups. Results: The TETRA group showed a significantly lower rate of 1-year recurrence both in primary (p = 0.034) and recurrent (p < 0.001) pterygia. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), astigmatic error, corneal total root mean square (RMS), and ocular surface disease index (OSDI) significantly reduced during the follow-up in both groups. The surface asymmetry index and high-order aberrations (HOAs) significantly reduced only in the TETRA group. The final BCVA was significantly higher, while the OSDI score and total RMS and HOAs were significantly lower in the TETRA group compared to the control. Conclusions: Patients under treatment with LD-SD showed a lower rate of recurrence at 1-year follow-up compared to controls. These patients also experienced higher BCVA and surface regularity and less dry-eye symptoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eye Diseases: Diagnosis and Management—Volume 2)
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17 pages, 6731 KiB  
Article
Effective Computational Model for Determining the Geometry of the Transition Zone of End Coils of Machined Springs, Enabling Efficient Use of the Spring Material
by Krzysztof Michalczyk, Rafa? Grzejda, Andrzej Urba? and Patryk Ró?y?o
Materials 2024, 17(7), 1540; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071540 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper presents an analysis of the effect of the geometry of the end-coil transition zone on the material stress state of a machined compression spring with a rectangular wire cross-section. The literature relationships for determining the stresses in rectangular wire compression springs [...] Read more.
This paper presents an analysis of the effect of the geometry of the end-coil transition zone on the material stress state of a machined compression spring with a rectangular wire cross-section. The literature relationships for determining the stresses in rectangular wire compression springs neglect the effects associated with the geometry of this zone. A series of non-linear numerical analyses were carried out for models of machined compression springs with a wide range of variation in geometrical parameters. The results of these analyses were used to develop a computational model to estimate the minimum value of the rounding radius ρmin, which ensures that the stresses in this zone are reduced to the level of the maximum coil stresses. The model is simple to apply, and allows the radius ρmin to be estimated for springs with a spring index between 2.5 and 10, a helix angle between 1° and 15°, and a proportion of the sides of the wire section between 0.4 and 5. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanics of Materials)
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10 pages, 313 KiB  
Review
A Settings and Systems Approach to Promoting the Health and Wellbeing of People with an Intellectual Disability
by Andrew Joyce
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(4), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21040409 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Research has shown that people with an intellectual disability have higher rates of certain preventable health conditions and a higher rate of avoidable mortality relative to the general population. With respect to health behaviours, they also have lower levels of physical activity and [...] Read more.
Research has shown that people with an intellectual disability have higher rates of certain preventable health conditions and a higher rate of avoidable mortality relative to the general population. With respect to health behaviours, they also have lower levels of physical activity and poorer nutrition. Despite the increased health needs, this population cohort is less likely to have the opportunity to participate in health promotion programs. The interventions that have been delivered are programmatic and individual in focus and have lacked a broader ecological and settings focus, which makes them very difficult to scale. Health promotion programs designed for the general population, such as lifestyle campaigns, rarely reach people with an intellectual disability. This increases the importance of ensuring that the settings in which they live and engage with are as health promoting as possible. Interventions have been particularly absent in the workplace for people with an intellectual disability. This paper highlights gaps in a settings-and-systems-based approach to promoting the health and wellbeing of people with an intellectual disability, particularly with respect to workplace health promotion. The paper concludes with recommendations for a systems approach that integrates approaches across multiple settings to better promote the health of this population cohort. Full article
14 pages, 1143 KiB  
Article
The Expression Patterns of Immune Checkpoint Molecules in Colorectal Cancer: An Analysis Based on Microsatellite Status
by Sanghyun An, Wanlu Li, Hyejin Do, Hye Youn Kwon, Bora Kim, Kwangmin Kim, Youngwan Kim and Mee-Yon Cho
Biomedicines 2024, 12(4), 752; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12040752 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Recently, immunotherapy has arisen as a novel treatment approach for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), but the effectiveness of immunotherapy varies in these patients. We hypothesized that immune checkpoint molecules (ICMs), which are the targets of immunotherapy, are often exhibited concomitantly. Our objective [...] Read more.
Recently, immunotherapy has arisen as a novel treatment approach for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), but the effectiveness of immunotherapy varies in these patients. We hypothesized that immune checkpoint molecules (ICMs), which are the targets of immunotherapy, are often exhibited concomitantly. Our objective was to investigate the patterns of ICM expression in patients with CRC and the differences in ICM expression based on microsatellite instability status. The immunohistochemical expression of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3), and lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3) in the tumor center and periphery was assessed in patients with non-metastatic colorectal cancer. We enrolled 83 patients with CRC: a total of 40 microsatellite-stable (MSS) and 43 microsatellite-instability-high (MSI-H) cancer patients. PD-L1 was more frequently expressed in the tumor center in the MSI-H patients with than that in the MSS patients (18 [41.9%] vs. 3 [7.5%], respectively; p < 0.001), and the same trend was observed for TIM-3 expression (30 [69.8%] vs. 19 [47.5%], respectively; p = 0.047). The concomitant expression of two or more ICMs was more frequently observed than no expression or the expression of a single molecule in both the MSS and MSI-H groups; a total of 34 (79.7%) patients with MSI-H cancer and 23 (57.5%) with MSS cancer showed ICM expression at the tumor center, whereas 34 (79.7%) patients with MSI-H cancer and 22 (55%) with MSS cancer showed expression at the tumor periphery. Patients with the genetic characteristics of MSI-H cancer showed higher expression levels of ICMs than those in patients with MSS cancer, and predominantly, two or more ICMs were concurrently expressed. Our findings highlight the potential efficacy of the dual-blockade approach in immunotherapy, particularly in patients with MSI-H CRC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Immunotherapy)
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21 pages, 4543 KiB  
Article
Sulforaphane Inhibits IL-1β-Induced IL-6 by Suppressing ROS Production, AP-1, and STAT3 in Colorectal Cancer HT-29 Cells
by Dhiraj Kumar Sah, Archana Arjunan, Seon Young Park, Bora Lee and Young Do Jung
Antioxidants 2024, 13(4), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13040406 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) stands as a major cause of cancer-related mortality globally, accounting for approximately 881,000 deaths each year. Traditional approaches such as chemotherapy and surgery have been the primary treatment modalities, yet the outcomes for patients with metastatic CRC are often unsatisfactory. [...] Read more.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) stands as a major cause of cancer-related mortality globally, accounting for approximately 881,000 deaths each year. Traditional approaches such as chemotherapy and surgery have been the primary treatment modalities, yet the outcomes for patients with metastatic CRC are often unsatisfactory. Recent research has focused on targeting the pathways involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, and metastasis to enhance the survival of CRC patients. Within this context, sulforaphane (SFN), a notable phytochemical found predominantly in cruciferous vegetables, has been recognized as a potential anticancer agent. However, the specific mechanisms through which SFN may exert its chemopreventive effects in CRC remain unclear. This study explores the impact of SFN on IL-1β-induced IL-6 activation and MAPK and AP-1 signaling in HT-29 cells. Our findings reveal that SFN treatment not only diminishes IL-1β-stimulated IL-6 expression but also reduces oxidative stress by curtailing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Furthermore, it hinders the proliferation and invasiveness of HT-29 cells through the modulation of MAPK/AP-1 and STAT3 signaling pathways. These results indicate that SFN mitigates IL-1β-induced IL-6 expression in CRC cells by attenuating ROS production and disrupting MAPK/AP-1 signaling. This suggests that SFN holds significant potential as a chemotherapeutic agent for both treating and preventing CRC. Full article
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12 pages, 2130 KiB  
Article
Variability in Pine Pitch Canker Susceptibility among Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) Provenances in Eastern Europe
by Kateryna Davydenko, Natalia ?ukaszewska-Skrzypniak, Katarzyna Sadowska, Justyna Anna Nowakowska, Kristina Raitelaityt?, Svetlana Markovskaja, Daiva Burokien?, Olena Shcherbak, Jorge Martín-García, Julio Javier Diez Casero, Tom Hsiang and Tomasz Oszako
Forests 2024, 15(4), 613; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15040613 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Pine pitch canker, caused by the ascomycete Fusarium circinatum, poses a substantial threat to pine trees and Douglas firs (Pseudotsuga menziesii), and has been identified as a pervasive issue in forests and nurseries worldwide, particularly in regions where susceptible conifers [...] Read more.
Pine pitch canker, caused by the ascomycete Fusarium circinatum, poses a substantial threat to pine trees and Douglas firs (Pseudotsuga menziesii), and has been identified as a pervasive issue in forests and nurseries worldwide, particularly in regions where susceptible conifers are cultivated. Given its prevalence in the Iberian Peninsula, assessments of the susceptibility of diverse European provenances of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris)—specifically those from Poland, Lithuania, and Ukraine—have been conducted. Preliminary evaluations of Polish provenances have raised concerns about the potential threat to Scots pine stands in Poland posed by pitch canker. Under controlled conditions, we examined the impact of F. circinatum inoculation on the survival of seeds and seedlings from ten provenances of Scots pine. In response, the initial assessment of F. circinatum pathogenicity was undertaken in a controlled greenhouse environment. This evaluation uncovered a heightened susceptibility of pine seedlings to pitch canker among the tested provenances. Notably, one Lithuanian provenance demonstrated superior resistance to pitch canker, while two Polish provenances exhibited a higher prevalence of symptomless seedlings. These findings underscore the need for further exploration and identification of resilient individuals within these provenances, offering valuable insights for developing strategies to mitigate the impact of pitch canker on Scots pine in Europe. Full article
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20 pages, 27313 KiB  
Article
A Digital Twin for Assessing the Remaining Useful Life of Offshore Wind Turbine Structures
by Rafael Pacheco-Blazquez, Julio Garcia-Espinosa, Daniel Di Capua and Andres Pastor Sanchez
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(4), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12040573 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper delves into the application of digital twin monitoring techniques for enhancing offshore floating wind turbine performance, with a detailed case study that uses open-source digital twin software. We explore the practical implementation of digital twins and their efficacy in optimizing operations [...] Read more.
This paper delves into the application of digital twin monitoring techniques for enhancing offshore floating wind turbine performance, with a detailed case study that uses open-source digital twin software. We explore the practical implementation of digital twins and their efficacy in optimizing operations and predictive maintenance, focusing on controlling the real-time structural state of composite wind turbine structures and forecasting the remaining useful life by tracking the fatigue state in the structure. Our findings emphasize digital twins’ potential as a valuable tool for renewable energy, driving efficiency and sustainability in offshore floating wind installations. These aspects, along with the aforementioned simulations, whether in real-time or forecasted, reduce costly and unnecessary inspections and scheduled maintenance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ocean Digital Twins)
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17 pages, 1913 KiB  
Article
Chaos in Opinion-Driven Disease Dynamics
by Thomas G?tz, Tyll Krüger, Karol Niedzielewski, Radomir Pestow, Moritz Sch?fer and Jan Schneider
Entropy 2024, 26(4), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26040298 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it became evident that the effectiveness of applying intervention measures is significantly influenced by societal acceptance, which, in turn, is affected by the processes of opinion formation. This article explores one among the many possibilities of coupled opinion–epidemic systems. [...] Read more.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it became evident that the effectiveness of applying intervention measures is significantly influenced by societal acceptance, which, in turn, is affected by the processes of opinion formation. This article explores one among the many possibilities of coupled opinion–epidemic systems. The findings reveal either intricate periodic patterns or chaotic dynamics, leading to substantial fluctuations in opinion distribution and, consequently, significant variations in the total number of infections over time. Interestingly, the model exhibits a protective pattern. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entropy-Based Applications in Sociophysics)
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11 pages, 3094 KiB  
Review
Ophthalmic Manifestations in Patients with Blood Malignancies
by Costanza Rossi, Alessandro Buizza, Giuseppe Alessio, Massimiliano Borselli, Andrea Taloni, Adriano Carnevali, Giovanna Carnovale Scalzo, Andrea Lucisano, Vincenzo Scorcia and Giuseppe Giannaccare
Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(2), 193-203; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16020020 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Ocular complications can occur in up to 90% of patients with blood malignancies. Such complications range from direct infiltration to local hemostatic imbalance and treatment-related toxicity. This narrative review is based on a systematic computerized search of the literature conducted until January 2024 [...] Read more.
Ocular complications can occur in up to 90% of patients with blood malignancies. Such complications range from direct infiltration to local hemostatic imbalance and treatment-related toxicity. This narrative review is based on a systematic computerized search of the literature conducted until January 2024 and examines the common ocular complications associated with blood cancers. Ocular complications from primary disease include mass effects from ocular adnexal lymphomas and intraocular lymphomas, with B-cell lymphomas accounting for 95% of primary ocular presentations. Secondary disease involvement from systemic hematological malignancies can lead to a wide range of ocular manifestations, such as leukemic retinopathy. Furthermore, toxicity from antineoplastic therapies and ocular graft versus host disease (oGVHD) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation present additional risks to ocular health. In conclusion, ocular complications in blood cancer patients are an integral part of patient management, requiring regular ophthalmic evaluations and close collaboration between oncologists and ophthalmologists. Advances in therapy and an increased focus on early symptom recognition are essential for preserving vision and enhancing patient quality of life. Full article
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17 pages, 6415 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Incorporating Nanoclay in NVCL-NIPAm Hydrogels on Swelling Behaviours and Mechanical Properties
by Billy Shu Hieng Tie, Eyman Manaf, Elaine Halligan, Shuo Zhuo, Gavin Keane, Joseph Geever and Luke Geever
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070597 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Following the formulation development from a previous study utilising N-vinylcaprolactam (NVCL) and N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) as monomers, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) as a chemical crosslinker, and Irgacure 2959 as photoinitiator, nanoclay (NC) is now incorporated into the selected formulation for enhanced mechanical performance and [...] Read more.
Following the formulation development from a previous study utilising N-vinylcaprolactam (NVCL) and N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) as monomers, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) as a chemical crosslinker, and Irgacure 2959 as photoinitiator, nanoclay (NC) is now incorporated into the selected formulation for enhanced mechanical performance and swelling ability. In this research, two types of NC, hydrophilic bentonite nanoclay (NCB) and surface-modified nanoclay (NCSM) of several percentages, were included in the formulation. The prepared mixtures were photopolymerised, and the fabricated gels were characterised through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), cloud-point measurements, ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, pulsatile swelling, rheological analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the effect of swelling temperature, NC types, and NC concentration on the hydrogels’ swelling ratio was studied through a full-factorial design of experiment (DOE). The successful photopolymerised NC-incorporated NVCL-NIPAm hydrogels retained the same lower critical solution temperature (LCST) as previously. Rheological analysis and SEM described the improved mechanical strength and polymer orientation of gels with any NCB percentage and low NCSM percentage. Finally, the temperature displayed the most significant effect on the hydrogels’ swelling ability, followed by the NC types and NC concentration. Introducing NC to hydrogels could potentially make them suitable for applications that require good mechanical performance. Full article
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21 pages, 45946 KiB  
Article
Replacing Settler Spaces: The Transformational Power of Indigenous Public Art
by Megan A. Smetzer
Arts 2024, 13(2), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/arts13020060 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Similar to 19th-century steamship travel, 21st-century cruise ships link far-flung communities for visitors to the Pacific Northwest Coast. Contemporary Indigenous artists, like their ancestors before them, have transformed touristic curiosity into economic, educational and cultural opportunities for their communities. Public art has become [...] Read more.
Similar to 19th-century steamship travel, 21st-century cruise ships link far-flung communities for visitors to the Pacific Northwest Coast. Contemporary Indigenous artists, like their ancestors before them, have transformed touristic curiosity into economic, educational and cultural opportunities for their communities. Public art has become an increasingly important site for engaging visitors who have only a few hours to spend on shore. This paper compares two public art projects—Juneau, Alaska’s Kootéeyaa Deiyí (Totem Pole Trail) and Vancouver, British Columbia’s Blanketing the City—to explore the multivalent ways in which public art expresses Indigenous sovereignty. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Arts of the Northwest Coast)
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18 pages, 1212 KiB  
Article
A UWB-Ego-Motion Particle Filter for Indoor Pose Estimation of a Ground Robot Using a Moving Horizon Hypothesis
by Yuri Durodié, Thomas Decoster, Ben Van Herbruggen, Jono Vanhie-Van Gerwen, Eli De Poorter, Adrian Munteanu and Bram Vanderborght
Sensors 2024, 24(7), 2164; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24072164 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Ultra-wideband (UWB) has gained increasing interest for providing real-time positioning to robots in GPS-denied environments. For a robot to act on this information, it also requires its heading. This is, however, not provided by UWB. To overcome this, either multiple tags are used [...] Read more.
Ultra-wideband (UWB) has gained increasing interest for providing real-time positioning to robots in GPS-denied environments. For a robot to act on this information, it also requires its heading. This is, however, not provided by UWB. To overcome this, either multiple tags are used to create a local reference frame connected to the robot or a single tag is combined with ego-motion estimation from odometry or Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) measurements. Both odometry and the IMU suffer from drift, and it is common to use a magnetometer to correct the drift on the heading; however, magnetometers tend to become unreliable in typical GPS-denied environments. To overcome this, a lightweight particle filter was designed to run in real time. The particle filter corrects the ego-motion heading and location drift using the UWB measurements over a moving horizon time frame. The algorithm was evaluated offline using data sets collected from a ground robot that contains line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight conditions. An RMSE of 13 cm and 0.12 (rad) was achieved with four anchors in the LOS condition. It is also shown that it can be used to provide the robot with real-time position and heading information for the robot to act on it in LOS conditions, and it is shown to be robust in both experimental conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensors and Robotics)
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18 pages, 540 KiB  
Article
SM9 Identity-Based Encryption with Designated-Position Fuzzy Equality Test
by Siyue Dong, Zhen Zhao, Baocang Wang, Wen Gao and Shanshan Zhang
Electronics 2024, 13(7), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13071256 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Public key encryption with equality test (PKEET) is a cryptographic primitive that enables a tester to determine whether two ciphertexts encrypted with same or different public keys have been generated from the same message without decryption. Previous studies extended PKEET to public key [...] Read more.
Public key encryption with equality test (PKEET) is a cryptographic primitive that enables a tester to determine whether two ciphertexts encrypted with same or different public keys have been generated from the same message without decryption. Previous studies extended PKEET to public key encryption with designated-position fuzzy equality test (PKE-DFET), enabling testers to verify whether plaintexts corresponding to two ciphertexts are equal while ignoring specific bits at designated positions. In this work, we have filled the research gap in the identity-based encryption (IBE) cryptosystems for this primitive. Furthermore, although our authorization method is the all-or-nothing (AoN) type, it overcomes the shortcomings present in the majority of AoN-type authorization schemes. In our scheme, equality tests can only be performed between a ciphertext and a given plaintext. Specifically, even if a tester acquires multiple AoN-type authorizations, it cannot conduct unpermitted equality tests between users. This significantly reduces the risk of user privacy leaks when handling sensitive information in certain scenarios, while still retaining the flexible and simple characteristics of AoN-type authorizations. We use the Chinese national cryptography standard SM9-IBE algorithm to provide the concrete construction of our scheme, enhancing the usability and security of our scheme, while making deployment more convenient. Finally, we prove that our scheme achieves F-OW-ID-CCA security when the adversary has the trapdoor of the challenge ciphertext, and achieves IND-ID-CCA security when the adversary does not have the trapdoor of the challenge ciphertext. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Cryptography and Practical Cryptoanalysis for Web 3.0)
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15 pages, 3073 KiB  
Review
Review of Methods for PCB Panel Depanelization and Methods for Correct Assembly of Electronic Components on PCB Panels
by Mateusz ?yczek and Wojciech Skarka
Electronics 2024, 13(7), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13071255 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Currently, processes related to PCBs (printed circle board), such as depanelization and checking the correct functioning of the boards, are carried out in separate devices. The purpose of this article is to review the literature and analyze trends related to these aspects of [...] Read more.
Currently, processes related to PCBs (printed circle board), such as depanelization and checking the correct functioning of the boards, are carried out in separate devices. The purpose of this article is to review the literature and analyze trends related to these aspects of PCB panel manufacturing. The purpose of this analysis is to indicate the currently used depanelization methods and methods for checking the correctness of the assembly of electronic circuits on PCB panels. The publications were found in such knowledge bases as Scopus, IEEE Xplore or Emerald insight. In the following article, a systematic literature analysis along with a mapping study is used. This publication provides a review of selected scientific papers found in the above-mentioned databases. Based on these analyses, insights related to future work on both aspects of PCBs were presented. These insights are part of the development of new integrated devices for depanelization and verification of PCBs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Industrial Electronics)
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4 pages, 152 KiB  
Editorial
New Developments in Geometric Function Theory II
by Georgia Irina Oros
Axioms 2024, 13(4), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms13040224 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This Special Issue is a sequel to the successful first volume entitled “New Developments in Geometric Function Theory” [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Developments in Geometric Function Theory II)
21 pages, 3031 KiB  
Article
Effect of Calcium Aluminate and Carbide Slag on Mechanical Property and Hydration Mechanism of Supersulfated Cement
by Guangzheng Qi, Qiang Zhang and Zhengning Sun
Buildings 2024, 14(4), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14040930 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Supersulfated cement (SSC), a low-carbon, energy-efficient, eco-friendly cementitious material, is mainly made from industrial byproducts. However, SSC’s slow early strength development leads to inadequate initial hardening and reduced durability, which restricts its practical application. This study investigated the potential enhancement of SSC by [...] Read more.
Supersulfated cement (SSC), a low-carbon, energy-efficient, eco-friendly cementitious material, is mainly made from industrial byproducts. However, SSC’s slow early strength development leads to inadequate initial hardening and reduced durability, which restricts its practical application. This study investigated the potential enhancement of SSC by incorporating calcium aluminate (CA) and carbide slag (CS) alongside anhydrite as activators to address its slow early strength development. The effects of varying CA and CS proportions on the mechanical property and hydration mechanism of CA-CS-SSC were examined. Results indicate that employing 1% CA and 4% CS as alkaline activators effectively activates slag hydration in the 1CA-4CS-SSC, achieving a compressive strength of 9.7 MPa at 1 day. Despite the limited improvement in early compressive strength of other mixtures with higher CA and lower CS proportions in the CA-CS-SSC system, all mixtures exhibited enhanced compressive strength during long-term hydration. After 90 days, ettringite formation in the CA-CS-SSC system decelerated, whereas anhydrite remained. Concurrently, the formation of C-S-H continued to increase, promoting late compressive strength. The mechanism for enhancing the early compressive strength of the CA-CS-SSC system is attributed to the swift hydration of CA with anhydrite, dissolution of fine slag particles, and reaction with anhydrite under conditions with suitable alkali content to augment the ettringite production. This process also generates a C-S-H and OH-hydrotalcite to fill the void in the skeleton structure formed by ettringite, resulting in a dense microstructure that improves early compressive strength. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon and Green Materials in Construction—2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 1432 KiB  
Article
A Fundamental Study of Reliable Vehicle-to-Cloud Communication Using Multiple Paths with Redundancy Mitigation
by Rui Teng and Kenya Sato
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2841; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072841 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The reliability of V2X (vehicle-to-everything) communication is important for safe automated driving. With the advances in wireless communication and multipath transport protocols, a vehicle can employ multiple wireless interfaces and carry out multipath communication. Although there has been extensive research into increasing the [...] Read more.
The reliability of V2X (vehicle-to-everything) communication is important for safe automated driving. With the advances in wireless communication and multipath transport protocols, a vehicle can employ multiple wireless interfaces and carry out multipath communication. Although there has been extensive research into increasing the Quality of Service (QoS) performance, such as throughput and delay in V2X communication, few studies have addressed explicit ways of improving the reliability of vehicle-to-cloud (V2C) communication through multipath-based redundancy. This paper addresses the issue of improving V2C reliably via multipath-based packet duplication, with particular consideration given to redundancy mitigation. We propose a method that employs dynamic adjustment of multipath redundancy to maintain packet-delivery reliability in V2C communication while enabling redundancy mitigation. The evaluation results show that the proposed method allows the vehicle to maintain the desired reliability in terms of successful packet transmission while reducing redundancy caused by packet duplication in a multipath connection. Full article
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14 pages, 3638 KiB  
Article
Oxidative Stress Induced by Cortisol in Human Platelets
by Maria Grazia Signorello, Silvia Ravera and Giuliana Leoncini
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3776; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073776 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Hypercortisolism is known to affect platelet function. However, few studies have approached the effect of exogenous cortisol on human platelets, and the results obtained are conflicting and unconvincing. In this study, the effect of exogenous cortisol on several parameters indicative of oxidative status [...] Read more.
Hypercortisolism is known to affect platelet function. However, few studies have approached the effect of exogenous cortisol on human platelets, and the results obtained are conflicting and unconvincing. In this study, the effect of exogenous cortisol on several parameters indicative of oxidative status in human platelets has been analysed. We have found that cortisol stimulates ROS production, superoxide anion formation, and lipid peroxidation, with these parameters being in strict correlation. In addition, cortisol decreases GSH and membrane SH-group content, evidencing that the hormone potentiates oxidative stress, depleting platelet antioxidant defence. The involvement of src, syk, PI3K, and AKT enzymes in oxidative mechanisms induced by cortisol is shown. The main sources of ROS in cells can include uncontrolled increase of NADPH oxidase activity and uncoupled aerobic respiration during oxidative phosphorylation. Both mechanisms seem to be involved in ROS formation induced by cortisol, as the NADPH oxidase 1 inhibitor 2(trifluoromethyl)phenothiazine, and rotenone and antimycin A, complex I and III inhibitor, respectively, significantly reduce oxidative stress. On the contrary, the NADPH oxidase inhibitor gp91ds-tat, malate and NaCN, complex II and IV inhibitor, respectively, have a minor effect. It is likely that, in human platelets, oxidative stress induced by cortisol can be associated with venous and arterial thrombosis, greatly contributing to cardiovascular diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Discovery and Novel Platelet Signaling in Thrombogenesis)
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