The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
Article
Effect of Fiber and Insect Powder Addition on Selected Organoleptic and Nutritional Characteristics of Gluten-Free Bread
by Alexandra Tauferová, Martina Pečová, Aneta Czerniková, Dani Dordević and Bohuslava Tremlová
Processes 2024, 12(5), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050970 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
A wide range of gluten-free bakery products are already available on the market. However, they often have a low proportion of fiber and inferior sensory properties when compared to classic baked goods. The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of [...] Read more.
A wide range of gluten-free bakery products are already available on the market. However, they often have a low proportion of fiber and inferior sensory properties when compared to classic baked goods. The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of the addition of different types of fiber and insect powder on selected organoleptic and nutritional properties of gluten-free pieces of bread and to reformulate a recipe for gluten-free bread. Twenty experimental samples were prepared with different types and percentages of fiber, either alone or in combination. Sensory analysis, instrumental texture analysis, and chemical analyses, including predicted glycemic index, were carried out. A total of 16 of the 24 fiber-enriched samples received an average or slightly above-average rating. The samples containing the fiber mixture without insect powder and the sample containing 9% flaxseed performed best in the overall evaluation. The combination of different types of plant fibers simultaneously with the incorporation of insect powder in a low concentration appears to be advantageous, both from the viewpoint of sensory acceptability and also from the viewpoint of the potential for increasing the polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity. This study lists the sensorially acceptable range of fiber concentrations, which can be a guide for the bakery industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Process Engineering)
12 pages, 2896 KiB  
Article
A Systematic Study of the Temperature Dependence of the Dielectric Function of GaSe Uniaxial Crystals from 27 to 300 K
by Long V. Le, Tien-Thanh Nguyen, Xuan Au Nguyen, Do Duc Cuong, Thi Huong Nguyen, Van Quang Nguyen, Sunglae Cho, Young Dong Kim and Tae Jung Kim
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100839 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
We report the temperature dependences of the dielectric function ε = ε1 + iε2 and critical point (CP) energies of the uniaxial crystal GaSe in the spectral energy region from 0.74 to 6.42 eV and at temperatures from 27 to [...] Read more.
We report the temperature dependences of the dielectric function ε = ε1 + iε2 and critical point (CP) energies of the uniaxial crystal GaSe in the spectral energy region from 0.74 to 6.42 eV and at temperatures from 27 to 300 K using spectroscopic ellipsometry. The fundamental bandgap and strong exciton effect near 2.1 eV are detected only in the c-direction, which is perpendicular to the cleavage plane of the crystal. The temperature dependences of the CP energies were determined by fitting the data to the phenomenological expression that incorporates the Bose–Einstein statistical factor and the temperature coefficient to describe the electron–phonon interaction. To determine the origin of this anisotropy, we perform first-principles calculations using the mBJ method for bandgap correction. The results clearly demonstrate that the anisotropic dielectric characteristics can be directly attributed to the inherent anisotropy of p orbitals. More specifically, this prominent excitonic feature and fundamental bandgap are derived from the band-to-band transition between s and pz orbitals at the Γ-point. Full article
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10 pages, 7074 KiB  
Article
Creation of a Corneal Flap for Laser In Situ Keratomileusis Using a Three-Dimensional Femtosecond Laser Cut: Clinical and Optical Coherence Tomography Features
by Antonio Leccisotti, Stefania V. Fields, Giuseppe De Bartolo, Christian Crudale and Matteo Posarelli
Optics 2024, 5(2), 267-276; https://doi.org/10.3390/opt5020019 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is the most frequently used technique for the surgical correction of refractive errors on the cornea. It entails the creation of a superficial hinged corneal flap using a femtosecond laser, ablation of the underlying stromal bed using an [...] Read more.
Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is the most frequently used technique for the surgical correction of refractive errors on the cornea. It entails the creation of a superficial hinged corneal flap using a femtosecond laser, ablation of the underlying stromal bed using an excimer laser, and repositioning of the flap. A corneal flap with an angled side cut reduces the risk of flap dislocation and infiltration of epithelial cells and confers unique biomechanical properties to the cornea. A new laser software creating three-dimensional (3D) flaps using a custom angle side cut was retrospectively evaluated, comparing optical coherence tomography 3D (with intended 90° side cut) and 2D flaps (with tapered side cuts) as well as respective intra- and early postoperative complications. Four hundred consecutive eyes were included, two hundred for each group. In the 3D group, the mean edge angle was 92°, and the procedure was on average 5.2 s slower (p = 0). Non-visually significant flap folds were found in thirteen eyes of the 2D group and in seven eyes of the 3D group (p = 0.17). In conclusion, the creation of a LASIK flap using a 3D femtosecond laser cut, although slightly slower, was safe and effective. The side cut angle was predictable and accurate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Optics)
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17 pages, 15115 KiB  
Article
Emerging Trends and Challenges in Pink Hydrogen Research
by Pablo Fernández-Arias, Álvaro Antón-Sancho, Georgios Lampropoulos and Diego Vergara
Energies 2024, 17(10), 2291; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102291 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Pink hydrogen is the name given to the technological variant of hydrogen generation from nuclear energy. This technology aims to address the environmental challenges associated with conventional hydrogen production, positioning itself as a more sustainable and eco-efficient alternative, while offering a viable alternative [...] Read more.
Pink hydrogen is the name given to the technological variant of hydrogen generation from nuclear energy. This technology aims to address the environmental challenges associated with conventional hydrogen production, positioning itself as a more sustainable and eco-efficient alternative, while offering a viable alternative to nuclear power as a source of electricity generation. The present research analyzes the landscape of pink hydrogen research, an innovative strand of renewable energy research. The methodology included a comprehensive search of scientific databases, which revealed a steady increase in the number of publications in recent years. This increase suggests a growing interest in and recognition of the importance of pink hydrogen in the transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. The results reflect the immaturity of this technology, where there is no single international strategy and where there is some diversity of research topic areas, as well as a small number of relevant topics. It is estimated that the future development of Gen IV nuclear reactors, as well as Small Modular Reactor (SMR) designs, will also favor the implementation of pink hydrogen. Full article
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17 pages, 4141 KiB  
Article
NMR Precision Metabolomics: Dynamic Peak Sum Thresholding and Navigators for Highly Standardized and Reproducible Metabolite Profiling of Clinical Urine Samples
by Alessia Trimigno, Nicole R. Holderman, Chen Dong, Kari D. Boardman, Jifang Zhao and Elizabeth M. O’Day
Metabolites 2024, 14(5), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo14050275 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Metabolomics, especially urine-based studies, offers incredible promise for the discovery and development of clinically impactful biomarkers. However, due to the unique challenges of urine, a highly precise and reproducible workflow for NMR-based urine metabolomics is lacking. Using 1D and 2D non-uniform sampled (NUS) [...] Read more.
Metabolomics, especially urine-based studies, offers incredible promise for the discovery and development of clinically impactful biomarkers. However, due to the unique challenges of urine, a highly precise and reproducible workflow for NMR-based urine metabolomics is lacking. Using 1D and 2D non-uniform sampled (NUS) 1H-13C NMR spectroscopy, we systematically explored how changes in hydration or specific gravity (SG) and pH can impact biomarker discovery. Further, we examined additional sources of error in metabolomics studies and identified Navigator molecules that could monitor for those biases. Adjustment of SG to 1.002–1.02 coupled with a dynamic sum-based peak thresholding eliminates false positives associated with urine hydration and reduces variation in chemical shift. We identified Navigator molecules that can effectively monitor for inconsistencies in sample processing, SG, protein contamination, and pH. The workflow described provides quality assurance and quality control tools to generate high-quality urine metabolomics data, which is the first step in biomarker discovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metabolomic Profiling Technology)
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26 pages, 4865 KiB  
Article
The Attention-Based Autoencoder for Network Traffic Classification with Interpretable Feature Representation
by Jun Cui, Longkun Bai, Xiaofeng Zhang, Zhigui Lin and Qi Liu
Symmetry 2024, 16(5), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16050589 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Network traffic classification is crucial for identifying network applications and defending against network threats. Traditional traffic classification approaches struggle to extract structural features and suffer from poor interpretability of feature representations. The high symmetry between network traffic classification and its interpretable feature representation [...] Read more.
Network traffic classification is crucial for identifying network applications and defending against network threats. Traditional traffic classification approaches struggle to extract structural features and suffer from poor interpretability of feature representations. The high symmetry between network traffic classification and its interpretable feature representation is vital for network traffic analysis. To address these issues, this paper proposes a traffic classification and feature representation model named the attention mechanism autoencoder (AMAE). The AMAE model extracts the global spatial structural features of network traffic through attention mechanisms and employs an autoencoder to extract local structural features and perform dimensionality reduction. This process maps different network traffic features into one-dimensional coordinate systems in the form of spectra, termed FlowSpectrum. The spectra of different network traffic represent different intervals in the coordinate system. This paper tests the interpretability and classification performance of network traffic features of the AMAE model using the ISCX-VPN2016 dataset. Experimental results demonstrate that by analyzing the overall distribution of attention weights and local weight values of network traffic, the model effectively explains the differences in the spectral representation intervals of different types of network traffic. Furthermore, our approach achieves the highest classification accuracy of up to 100% for non-VPN-encrypted traffic and 99.69% for VPN-encrypted traffic, surpassing existing traffic classification schemes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computer)
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12 pages, 2744 KiB  
Article
Effects of Intracerebral Aminophylline Dosing on Catalepsy and Gait in an Animal Model of Parkinson’s Disease
by Érica de Moraes Santos Corrêa, Gustavo Christofoletti and Albert Schiaveto de Souza
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5191; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105191 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive disorder characterized by the apoptosis of dopaminergic neurons in the basal ganglia. This study explored the potential effects of aminophylline, a non-selective adenosine A1 and A2A receptor antagonist, on catalepsy and gait in a haloperidol-induced [...] Read more.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive disorder characterized by the apoptosis of dopaminergic neurons in the basal ganglia. This study explored the potential effects of aminophylline, a non-selective adenosine A1 and A2A receptor antagonist, on catalepsy and gait in a haloperidol-induced PD model. Sixty adult male Swiss mice were surgically implanted with guide cannulas that targeted the basal ganglia. After seven days, the mice received intraperitoneal injections of either haloperidol (experimental group, PD-induced model) or saline solution (control group, non-PD-induced model), followed by intracerebral infusions of aminophylline. The assessments included catalepsy testing on the bar and gait analysis using the Open Field Maze. A two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey’s post hoc tests, was employed to evaluate the impact of groups (experimental × control), aminophylline (60 nM × 120 nM × saline/placebo), and interactions. Significance was set at 5%. The results revealed that the systemic administration of haloperidol in the experimental group increased catalepsy and dysfunction of gait that paralleled the observations in PD. Co-treatment with aminophylline at 60 nM and 120 nM reversed catalepsy in the experimental group but did not restore the normal gait pattern of the animals. In the non-PD induced group, which did not present any signs of catalepsy or motor dysfunctions, the intracerebral dose of aminophylline did not exert any interference on reaction time for catalepsy but increased walking distance in the Open Field Maze. Considering the results, this study highlights important adenosine interactions in the basal ganglia of animals with and without signs comparable to those of PD. These findings offer valuable insights into the neurobiology of PD and emphasize the importance of exploring novel therapeutic strategies to improve patient’s catalepsy and gait. Full article
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16 pages, 7842 KiB  
Article
Impact of Relational Coordination on Job Satisfaction and Willingness to Stay: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Healthcare Professionals in South Tyrol, Italy
by Christian J. Wiedermann, Verena Barbieri, Adolf Engl and Giuliano Piccoliori
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050397 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Job satisfaction and willingness to stay are critical for workforce stability in a challenging healthcare environment. This study examined how relational coordination, a key factor in teamwork and communication, influences outcomes among healthcare professionals in a bilingual, culturally mixed region of Italy. This [...] Read more.
Job satisfaction and willingness to stay are critical for workforce stability in a challenging healthcare environment. This study examined how relational coordination, a key factor in teamwork and communication, influences outcomes among healthcare professionals in a bilingual, culturally mixed region of Italy. This cross-sectional survey included general practitioners, hospital physicians, nurses, and administrators from the South Tyrol Health Service, using the ‘Relational Coordination Survey’ and additional measures of job satisfaction and willingness to stay. The analytical methods used included descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression analyses. This study applied path analysis, including mediation and moderation techniques, to investigate the roles of relational coordination and job satisfaction in influencing the willingness to stay. It employs Conditional Process Analysis with the PROCESS macro in SPSS, focusing on models for moderated mediation analysis. The results indicated a critical influence of relational coordination on both job satisfaction and willingness to stay among the 525 healthcare professionals. Job satisfaction varied by health district and years of service, with midcareer professionals being the least satisfied. The findings highlight the central role of relational coordination in job satisfaction and willingness to stay and confirm that low job satisfaction increases turnover intentions. Relational coordination directly enhanced job satisfaction and willingness to stay, while also serving as a mediating factor that amplifies the impact of job satisfaction on retention intentions. This study reinforces the need for strong teamwork and communication to stabilize the healthcare workforce. Targeted interventions aimed at improving relational coordination could significantly enhance job satisfaction and retention among healthcare professionals, particularly in culturally diverse settings such as South Tyrol. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Outlooks on Relationships in the Workplace)
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16 pages, 249 KiB  
Review
Intake Biomarkers for Nutrition and Health: Review and Discussion of Methodology Issues
by Ross L. Prentice
Metabolites 2024, 14(5), 276; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo14050276 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Metabolomics profiles from blood, urine, or other body fluids have the potential to assess intakes of foods and nutrients objectively, thereby strengthening nutritional epidemiology research. Metabolomics platforms may include targeted components that estimate the relative concentrations for individual metabolites in a predetermined set, [...] Read more.
Metabolomics profiles from blood, urine, or other body fluids have the potential to assess intakes of foods and nutrients objectively, thereby strengthening nutritional epidemiology research. Metabolomics platforms may include targeted components that estimate the relative concentrations for individual metabolites in a predetermined set, or global components, typically involving mass spectrometry, that estimate relative concentrations more broadly. While a specific metabolite concentration usually correlates with the intake of a single food or food group, multiple metabolites may be correlated with the intake of certain foods or with specific nutrient intakes, each of which may be expressed in absolute terms or relative to total energy intake. Here, I briefly review the progress over the past 20 years on the development and application intake biomarkers for foods/food groups, nutrients, and dietary patterns, primarily by drawing from several recent reviews. In doing so, I emphasize the criteria and study designs for candidate biomarker identification, biomarker validation, and intake biomarker application. The use of intake biomarkers for diet and chronic disease association studies is still infrequent in nutritional epidemiology research. My comments here will derive primarily from our research group’s recent contributions to the Women’s Health Initiative cohorts. I will complete the contribution by describing some opportunities to build on the collective 20 years of effort, including opportunities related to the metabolomics profiling of blood and urine specimens from human feeding studies that approximate habitual diets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolomics-Based Biomarkers for Nutrition and Health)
11 pages, 2566 KiB  
Communication
The Heterogeneous Habitat of Taiga Forests Changes the Soil Microbial Functional Diversity
by Tian Zhou, Song Wu, Mingliang Gao and Libin Yang
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050959 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The soil contains abundant and diverse microorganisms, which interrelate closely with the aboveground vegetation and impact the structure and function of the forest ecosystem. To explore the effect of vegetation diversity on soil microbial functional diversity in taiga forests, we selected significantly different [...] Read more.
The soil contains abundant and diverse microorganisms, which interrelate closely with the aboveground vegetation and impact the structure and function of the forest ecosystem. To explore the effect of vegetation diversity on soil microbial functional diversity in taiga forests, we selected significantly different important values of Larix gmelinii as experimental grouping treatments based on plant investigation from fixed plots in Da Xing’anling Mountains. Following that, we collected soil samples and applied the Biolog-ECO microplate method to investigate differences in carbon source utilization, features of functional diversity in soil microorganisms, and factors influencing them in taiga forests. The AWCD decreased as the important value of Larix gmelinii grew, and soil microorganisms preferred carboxylic acids, amino acids, and carbohydrates over polymers, phenolic acids, and amines. The Shannon and McIntosh indexes decreased significantly with the increase of the important value of Larix gmelinii (p < 0.05) and were positively correlated with soil SOC, MBC, C/N, and pH, but negatively with TN, AP, and AN. Redundancy analysis revealed significant effects on soil microbial functional diversity from soil C/N, SOC, AP, MBC, TN, pH, AN, and WC. To sum up, heterogeneous habitats of taiga forests with different important values altered soil microbial functional diversity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Microbiology)
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15 pages, 338 KiB  
Article
An Autoethnography on Intergenerational Relationships and Transnational Care for Older Parents
by Weiguo Zhang
Genealogy 2024, 8(2), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8020056 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
I employ autoethnography to undertake a broader scholarly inquiry on intergenerational relationships and transnational care shaped by global migration and aging. Specifically, I reflect on the dynamics of my relationship with my mother, beginning with my departure from my home and spanning a [...] Read more.
I employ autoethnography to undertake a broader scholarly inquiry on intergenerational relationships and transnational care shaped by global migration and aging. Specifically, I reflect on the dynamics of my relationship with my mother, beginning with my departure from my home and spanning a period of 40 years, 8 in China and 34 outside China. In doing so, I contemplate theoretical models of intergenerational solidarity, ambivalence, and role ambiguity. I also challenge cultural assumptions of filial piety. The geographical distance, passage of time, and acculturation process have profoundly influenced my perception of filial piety, which differs markedly from my mother’s. However, this divergence in consensual solidarity—marked by variations in attitudes, beliefs, and values—does not translate into weakened affectual solidarity, characterized by positive sentiments and emotions. Furthermore, aided by advancements in transportation and social media technology, I have been able to extend crucial emotional and some “instrumental” care to my mother, along with financial support if needed, despite limited hands-on care. Nevertheless, I must negotiate my care for my mother and navigate a delicate balance in coordinating my care efforts with those of my non-migrant siblings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Multicultural Marriages and Families)
15 pages, 1397 KiB  
Article
Phosphate-Solubilizing Microorganisms Stimulate Physiological Responses of Perennial Ryegrass to Phosphorus Deficiency with Assistance of Straw Compost
by Chunkai Li, Zhaojuan Zheng, Yexin Zhao, Hongxin Wang, Peng Li, Jingjing Xu, Jiaguo Jiao, Li Xu, Feng Hu and Huixin Li
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051008 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Biofertilizers with phosphate-solubilizing microorganism (PSM) inoculations have been suggested to diminish the limitation of phosphorus (P) deficiency in plants. However, their applications in agriculture are restricted due to the inconstant effects of various PSMs. Proper carriers for the inoculations may overcome this shortcoming [...] Read more.
Biofertilizers with phosphate-solubilizing microorganism (PSM) inoculations have been suggested to diminish the limitation of phosphorus (P) deficiency in plants. However, their applications in agriculture are restricted due to the inconstant effects of various PSMs. Proper carriers for the inoculations may overcome this shortcoming and improve PSMs’ effectiveness. The objective of this study was to investigate whether straw compost, a type of organic material, can act as a carrier for improving the efficiencies of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria and fungi named Acinetobacter sp. and Aspergillus niger, respectively, in soils. We monitored the growth and cellular physiological responses of one type of model plants, named perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), under four soil treatments, including non-fertilization, PSM inoculation alone, straw compost addition alone, and the combined applications of both PSMs and straw compost. We found the combined treatments significantly improved the growth by 14.7% for shoot height and 79.7% for shoot weight, respectively, on average. P and potassium (K) uptakes of ryegrass were also increased by 102.5% and 65.3%, respectively, after the application of both PSMs and straw compost. Furthermore, physiological properties, such as photosynthetic efficiency and P-transportation capacity, of ryegrass were also significantly improved under combined treatments when compared to other treatments, regardless of the types of PSM included. The piecewise structural equation model further indicated that PSM inoculation and straw compost input are synergistically contributing to the nutrient uptake of ryegrass through many direct and indirect ways. We propose that straw compost is a good carrier material for PSMs’ survival and would improve their plant growth promotion ability in soil. Our results provide valuable insights into the exploitation and utilization of P-biofertilizers in agriculture. Full article
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16 pages, 2071 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Biological Activity Studies of Octenyl Succinic Anhydride Starch-Based Emulsions Containing Natural Essential Oils and Their Components
by Vesta Navikaite-Snipaitiene, Kamile Spirikavice, Jurate Siugzdaite, Egle Beatrice Grigonyte and Ramune Rutkaite
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4050; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104050 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, clove essential oil (CL), eugenol (EU), and cinnamaldehyde (CI) were immobilized in starch sodium octenyl succinate (SSO) using an emulsification method. The main characteristics, stability, and biological properties of the prepared emulsions were established. Particle size analyses using dynamic light [...] Read more.
In this study, clove essential oil (CL), eugenol (EU), and cinnamaldehyde (CI) were immobilized in starch sodium octenyl succinate (SSO) using an emulsification method. The main characteristics, stability, and biological properties of the prepared emulsions were established. Particle size analyses using dynamic light scattering showed that the smaller droplets were characteristic of emulsions containing CI (205–218 nm) and EU (181–236 nm), while the largest droplets were determined for CL emulsions (293–348 nm). Moreover, the highest antioxidant activity was determined for CL (79–83%) and EU (80–88%) emulsions, while CI emulsions showed the greatest antibacterial activity. The obtained emulsions were applied to the paper sheets and the bioactive properties of coated paper were studied. Evaluation of antioxidant properties revealed that high antioxidant activity reaching 76–92% and 87–91% was characteristic of coatings containing CL and EU, respectively. Meanwhile, coatings containing CI showed quite low antioxidant activity (4–9%) but demonstrated the greatest antimicrobial effect on Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria as well as yeasts. Hence, CL and EU emulsions could be used as effective natural antioxidants, whereas CI emulsions could be applied as an antimicrobial agent on cellulose-based substrates for a wide range of human health protection applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactive Natural Products in Health and Disease)
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15 pages, 4116 KiB  
Article
Friction and Wear of Hard Yet Tough TiN Coatings Deposited Using High-Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering
by Qian Zhou, Yixiang Ou, Feiqiang Li, Changyu Ou, Wenbin Xue, Bin Liao, Qingsong Hua, Yunfei Xu, Jidong Cao and Guanshu Qu
Coatings 2024, 14(5), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14050598 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The friction and wear response of hard coatings is complex, which largely depends on a good combination of hardness and toughness, and their service life is difficult to predict. Hence, in this work, hard yet tough TiN coatings were deposited using high-power impulse [...] Read more.
The friction and wear response of hard coatings is complex, which largely depends on a good combination of hardness and toughness, and their service life is difficult to predict. Hence, in this work, hard yet tough TiN coatings were deposited using high-power impulse magnetron sputtering at 5–10 kW. With increasing sputtering power, the coatings showed a transition in crystal texture from (200) to (111), along with a refinement in microstructure, leading to an improvement in hardness (H) of 29.8–31.2 GPa and an effective Young’s modulus (E*) of 310–365 GPa. The hard yet tough TiN coatings deposited at 6.5 kW exhibited the highest H/E* and H3/E*2 ratios of 0.097 and 0.29, respectively, as well as the highest fracture toughness of 2.1 MPa·m1/2 and elastic recovery of 42.5%. Accordingly, the coatings possessed an enhanced adhesion and cohesion, in terms of micro-scratch critical load (LC3 = 19.67 N) and HF Rockwell HF1 level. The friction and wear response of hard yet tough TiN coatings under the normal load of 1–10 N were investigated to explore their durability and predict their critical load up to failure. Wear mechanisms changed from oxidative to severe abrasive wear, with load increasing from 1 to 10 N. At 2–5 N, a combination of oxidative and abrasive wear was observed. The coatings maintained their integrity up to the critical load of 9.4 N before failure event, with a maximum wear track depth of 1.8 μm, indicating their durability under the loading conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Corrosion, Wear and Erosion)
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12 pages, 4722 KiB  
Article
Long-Range Influence of Cr on the Stacking Fault Energy of Cr-Containing Concentrated Solid-Solution Alloys
by Hao Xiao, Qingyuan Liu, Shijun Zhao, Songqin Xia, Yugang Wang and Chenxu Wang
Metals 2024, 14(5), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14050560 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Single-phase concentrated solid-solution alloys (CSAs) have exhibited excellent mechanical and radiation tolerance properties, making them potential candidate materials for nuclear applications. These excellent properties are closely related to dislocation movements, which depend on the stacking fault energies (SFEs). In CSAs, SFEs show large [...] Read more.
Single-phase concentrated solid-solution alloys (CSAs) have exhibited excellent mechanical and radiation tolerance properties, making them potential candidate materials for nuclear applications. These excellent properties are closely related to dislocation movements, which depend on the stacking fault energies (SFEs). In CSAs, SFEs show large fluctuations due to variations in the local atomic environments in the vicinity of the stacking faults. In this work, first-principle calculations were performed to investigate the origin of the fluctuations in the SFEs of the widely studied CSA, NiCoCr, which show a very wide distribution from about −200 mJ/m2 to 60 mJ/m2. Compared to the common understanding that only atoms in close proximity to the stacking fault influence the SFEs in pure metals and dilute alloys, charge redistribution can be observed in several nearby planes of the stacking fault in NiCoCr, indicating that atoms several atomic layers away from stacking fault also contribute to the SFEs. Our analysis shows that Cr plays a major role in the large fluctuation in the SFEs of NiCoCr based on both electronic and magnetic responses. The flexible electronic structure of Cr facilitates easier charge transfer with Cr in several nearby atomic planes near the stacking fault, leading to significant changes in the d-electron number, orbital occupation number, and magnetic moments of Cr. Full article
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13 pages, 3710 KiB  
Article
Effects of Long-Term Fertilizer Application on Crop Yield Stability and Water Use Efficiency in Diversified Planting Systems
by Nana Li, Tao Li, Jianfu Xue, Gaimei Liang and Xuefang Huang
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1007; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051007 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Exploring crop yield stability and the relationship between the water–fertilizer effect and annual precipitation type in a broomcorn millet–potato–spring corn rotation system under long-term fertilization on chestnut cinnamon soil in loess tableland can provide a scientific basis for rational fertilization in the northwest [...] Read more.
Exploring crop yield stability and the relationship between the water–fertilizer effect and annual precipitation type in a broomcorn millet–potato–spring corn rotation system under long-term fertilization on chestnut cinnamon soil in loess tableland can provide a scientific basis for rational fertilization in the northwest Shanxi region in years with different precipitation. This study was based on a 33-year long-term fertilizer experiment, using four fertilizer treatments: no fertilizer as control (CT), single fertilizer nitrogen (N), single organic fertilizer (M), and nitrogen fertilizer with organic fertilizer (NM). The results showed that broomcorn millet and maize had the highest yield in wet years, while potatoes had the highest yield in normal years and the yield under NM treatment was the highest. The sustainable yield index (SYI) values for potato and maize were higher than the SYI for the broomcorn millet during years with different precipitation and the SYI for the NM treatment was the highest. The water use efficiency of NM treatment was the highest. The yield of broomcorn millet and maize was affected by nitrogen fertilizer, organic fertilizer, and precipitation during the growth period, while the potato yield was mainly affected by nitrogen fertilizer and organic fertilizer. Therefore, the rotation of potato–maize and the rational allocation of organic and inorganic fertilizer (NM) is the best planting system in this region. Full article
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22 pages, 5660 KiB  
Article
Light-Adaptive Human Body Key Point Detection Algorithm Based on Multi-Source Information Fusion
by Zhigang Hu, Chengwu Zhang, Xinzheng Wang and Aoru Ge
Sensors 2024, 24(10), 3021; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24103021 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The identification of key points in the human body is vital for sports rehabilitation, medical diagnosis, human–computer interaction, and related fields. Currently, depth cameras provide more precise depth information on these crucial points. However, human motion can lead to variations in the positions [...] Read more.
The identification of key points in the human body is vital for sports rehabilitation, medical diagnosis, human–computer interaction, and related fields. Currently, depth cameras provide more precise depth information on these crucial points. However, human motion can lead to variations in the positions of these key points. While the Mediapipe algorithm demonstrates effective anti-shake capabilities for these points, its accuracy can be easily affected by changes in lighting conditions. To address these challenges, this study proposes an illumination-adaptive algorithm for detecting human key points through the fusion of multi-source information. By integrating key point data from the depth camera and Mediapipe, an illumination change model is established to simulate environmental lighting variations. Subsequently, the fitting function of the relationship between lighting conditions and adaptive weights is solved to achieve lighting adaptation for human key point detection. Experimental verification and similarity analysis with benchmark data yielded R2 results of 0.96 and 0.93, and cosine similarity results of 0.92 and 0.90. With a threshold range of 8, the joint accuracy rates for the two rehabilitation actions were found to be 89% and 88%. The experimental results demonstrate the stability of the proposed method in detecting key points in the human body under changing illumination conditions, its anti-shake ability for human movement, and its high detection accuracy. This method shows promise for applications in human–computer interaction, sports rehabilitation, and virtual reality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Optical and Optomechanical Sensors)
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21 pages, 3563 KiB  
Article
Senotherapeutic Peptide 14 Suppresses Th1 and M1 Human T Cell and Monocyte Subsets In Vitro
by Thuany Alencar-Silva, Stefhani Martins de Barcelos, Amandda Silva-Carvalho, Mauricio Gonçalves da Costa Sousa, Taia Maria Berto Rezende, Robert Pogue, Felipe Saldanha-Araújo, Octávio Luiz Franco, Mariana Boroni, Alessandra Zonari and Juliana Lott Carvalho
Cells 2024, 13(10), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13100813 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Inflammation contributes to the onset and exacerbation of numerous age-related diseases, often manifesting as a chronic condition during aging. Given that cellular senescence fosters local and systemic inflammation, senotherapeutic interventions could potentially aid in managing or even reducing inflammation. Here, we investigated the [...] Read more.
Inflammation contributes to the onset and exacerbation of numerous age-related diseases, often manifesting as a chronic condition during aging. Given that cellular senescence fosters local and systemic inflammation, senotherapeutic interventions could potentially aid in managing or even reducing inflammation. Here, we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of the senotherapeutic Peptide 14 (Pep 14) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), monocytes, and macrophages. We found that, despite failing to significantly influence T cell activation and proliferation, the peptide promoted a Th2/Treg gene expression and cytokine signature in PBMCs, characterized by increased expression of the transcription factors GATA3 and FOXP3, as well as the cytokines IL-4 and IL-10. These observations were partially confirmed through ELISA, in which we observed increased IL-10 release by resting and PHA-stimulated PBMCs. In monocytes from the U-937 cell line, Pep 14 induced apoptosis in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated cells and upregulated IL-10 expression. Furthermore, Pep 14 prevented LPS-induced activation and promoted an M2-like polarization in U-937-derived macrophages, evidenced by decreased expression of M1 markers and increased expression of M2 markers. We also showed that the conditioned media from Pep 14-treated macrophages enhanced fibroblast migration, indicative of a functional M2 phenotype. Taken together, our findings suggest that Pep 14 modulates immune cell function towards an anti-inflammatory and regenerative phenotype, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic intervention to alleviate immunosenescence-associated dysregulation. Full article
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18 pages, 6343 KiB  
Article
Combination of a Synthetic Bioceramic Associated with a Polydioxanone-Based Membrane as an Alternative to Autogenous Bone Grafting
by Paula Buzo Frigério, Juliana de Moura, Letícia Pitol-Palin, Naara Gabriela Monteiro, Carlos Fernando Mourão, Jamil Awad Shibli and Roberta Okamoto
Biomimetics 2024, 9(5), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9050284 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the repair process in rat calvaria filled with synthetic biphasic bioceramics (Plenum® Osshp-70:30, HA:βTCP) or autogenous bone, covered with a polydioxanone membrane (PDO). A total of 48 rats were divided into two groups ( [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the repair process in rat calvaria filled with synthetic biphasic bioceramics (Plenum® Osshp-70:30, HA:βTCP) or autogenous bone, covered with a polydioxanone membrane (PDO). A total of 48 rats were divided into two groups (n = 24): particulate autogenous bone + Plenum® Guide (AUTOPT+PG) or Plenum® Osshp + Plenum® Guide (PO+PG). A defect was created in the calvaria, filled with the grafts, and covered with a PDO membrane, and euthanasia took place at 7, 30, and 60 days. Micro-CT showed no statistical difference between the groups, but there was an increase in bone volume (56.26%), the number of trabeculae (2.76 mm), and intersection surface (26.76 mm2) and a decrease in total porosity (43.79%) in the PO+PG group, as well as higher values for the daily mineral apposition rate (7.16 µm/day). Histometric analysis presented material replacement and increased bone formation at 30 days compared to 7 days in both groups. Immunostaining showed a similar pattern between the groups, with an increase in proteins related to bone remodeling and formation. In conclusion, Plenum® Osshp + Plenum® Guide showed similar and sometimes superior results when compared to autogenous bone, making it a competent option as a bone substitute. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bioceramics for Bone Regeneration)
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14 pages, 1697 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Intact/Delaminated Composite and Sandwich Beams Using a Higher-Order Modeling Technique
by Yuan Feng, Abdul Hamid Sheikh and Guanzhen Li
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(5), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8050175 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
A simple higher-order model (HOM) is presented in this study for the bending analysis of an intact or delaminated composite and sandwich beam. This model adopts the concept of sub-laminates to simulate multilayered structures, and each sub-laminate takes cubic variation for axial displacement [...] Read more.
A simple higher-order model (HOM) is presented in this study for the bending analysis of an intact or delaminated composite and sandwich beam. This model adopts the concept of sub-laminates to simulate multilayered structures, and each sub-laminate takes cubic variation for axial displacement and linear variation for transverse displacement through the thickness. A sub-laminate possesses displacement components at its surfaces (bottom and top) that provide a straightforward way to improve the accuracy of prediction by stacking several sub-laminates. Thus, analysts will have the flexibility to balance the computational cost and the accuracy by selecting an appropriate sub-lamination scheme. The proposed model was implemented by developing a C0 beam element that has only displacement unknowns. The model was used to solve numerical examples of composite and sandwich beams to demonstrate its performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Modelling of Composites, Volume III)
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15 pages, 2344 KiB  
Article
Development and Validation of the Bone Tumor Surgery Complexity Score
by Annika Frei, Georg Schelling, Philip Heesen, Pietro Giovanoli and Bruno Fuchs
Reports 2024, 7(2), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports7020035 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Bone tumors often manifest with non-specific symptoms such as pain and swelling, often posing diagnostic challenges. Optimal treatment requires centralized care in specialized centers, emphasizing the need for complete tumor removal and interdisciplinary collaboration. We developed the Bone Tumor Surgery Complexity Score (BT-SCS) [...] Read more.
Bone tumors often manifest with non-specific symptoms such as pain and swelling, often posing diagnostic challenges. Optimal treatment requires centralized care in specialized centers, emphasizing the need for complete tumor removal and interdisciplinary collaboration. We developed the Bone Tumor Surgery Complexity Score (BT-SCS) based on a retrospective study of 501 patients. The BT-SCS, structured around patient demographics, tumor biology, and surgical parameters, categorizes surgical cases into four groups to comprehensively assess complexity. Application of the BT-SCS resulted in scores ranging from 3 to 33, with an average score of 14 ± 7.2. Patients with malignant tumors had higher scores (19.6 ± 5.2) compared to those with benign (10.0 ± 3.8) or intermediate malignant tumors (14.6 ± 7.1). Patients with pelvic tumors registered the highest scores (16.0), followed by extremities/trunk (14.3) and spinal tumors (13.6). The BT-SCS was validated against the Case Mix Index (CMI), using an independent cohort of bone and soft tissue cases. This validation process, utilizing Loess smoothing, illustrated the BT-SCS’s granular differentiation of surgical complexity, particularly in the lower-to-mid-range of case severities. The BT-SCS represents a significant shift from volume-based to complexity-based assessments in surgical care, aligning with evolving healthcare paradigms. It serves as a tool for strategic patient allocation to treatment centers, aiming to improve outcomes and benchmarking in sarcoma care. The score’s development and application in clinical practice align with the focus on patient-centered and value-based healthcare. Future enhancements, including machine learning integration and outcome data, will refine its categorization process, enhancing clinical utility. Full article
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16 pages, 3953 KiB  
Article
“This Is How/You’ll End”: Holocaust Poems as War Ephemera
by Yael S. Hacohen
Genealogy 2024, 8(2), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8020053 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
During the Holocaust, poets went to extraordinary lengths to write their poems and transmit them. Poems that were written during those years were often buried in the ground, stitched into clothing, smuggled out of prisons, or graffitied onto walls. These object documents carried [...] Read more.
During the Holocaust, poets went to extraordinary lengths to write their poems and transmit them. Poems that were written during those years were often buried in the ground, stitched into clothing, smuggled out of prisons, or graffitied onto walls. These object documents carried more than facts about these events; they carried the feeling of living through these events. This research explores the last poems of four Holocaust poets, Władysław Szlengel, Selma Meerbaum-Eisinger, Hannah Szenes, and Abramek Koplowicz, investigating not only the poems but their object-ness and their stories of transference. These poems, like urgent postcards, deliver messages to a family, to a community, to the world. They ask―what does it mean to write a poem as a last will and testament? Full article
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14 pages, 2895 KiB  
Article
Curating Community behind Barbed Wire: Canadian Prisoner of War Art from the Second World War
by Sarafina Pagnotta
Genealogy 2024, 8(2), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8020054 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Though often under-represented in the official and national narratives and in Canadian military historiography more broadly, the intimate and personal lived experiences of Canadian prisoners of war (POW) during the Second World War can be found in archives, photography collections, and collections of [...] Read more.
Though often under-represented in the official and national narratives and in Canadian military historiography more broadly, the intimate and personal lived experiences of Canadian prisoners of war (POW) during the Second World War can be found in archives, photography collections, and collections of war art. In an attempt to see past the mythologised versions of POWs that appear in Hollywood films, best-selling monographs, and other forms of popular culture, it is through bits of ephemera—including wartime log books and the drawings carefully kept and sent home to loved ones along with handwritten letters—that the stories of non-combatant men and women who spent their war as POWs, can be told. Together, Canadian POWs created and curated community and fostered unconventional family ties, sometimes called “emotional communities”, through the collection and accumulation of drawings, illustrations, paintings, and other examples of war art on the pages of their wartime log books while living behind barbed wire. This article uncovers some of these stories, buried in the thousands of boxes in the George Metcalf Archival Collection—the textual archives—at the Canadian War Museum (CWM) in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Full article
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