The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
14 pages, 869 KiB  
Review
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Metabolomics: Current Applications in Equine Health Assessment
by Fulvio Laus, Marilena Bazzano, Andrea Spaterna, Luca Laghi and Andrea Marchegiani
Metabolites 2024, 14(5), 269; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo14050269 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Metabolomics can allow for the comprehensive identification of metabolites within biological systems, at given time points, in physiological and pathological conditions. In the last few years, metabolomic analysis has gained popularity both in human and in veterinary medicine, showing great potential for novel [...] Read more.
Metabolomics can allow for the comprehensive identification of metabolites within biological systems, at given time points, in physiological and pathological conditions. In the last few years, metabolomic analysis has gained popularity both in human and in veterinary medicine, showing great potential for novel applications in clinical activity. The aim of applying metabolomics in clinical practice is understanding the mechanisms underlying pathological conditions and the influence of certain stimuli (i.e., drugs, nutrition, exercise) on body systems, in the attempt of identifying biomarkers that can help in the diagnosis of diseases. Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR) is well tailored to be used as an analytical platform for metabolites’ detection at the base of metabolomics studies, due to minimal sample preparation and high reproducibility. In this mini-review article, the scientific production of NMR metabolomic applications to equine medicine is examined. The research works are very different in methodology and difficult to compare. Studies are mainly focused on exercise, reproduction, and nutrition, other than respiratory and musculoskeletal diseases. The available information on this topic is still scant, but a greater collection of data could allow researchers to define new reliable markers to be used in clinical practice for diagnostic and therapeutical purposes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolomic Profiling in Equine Medicine and Reproduction)
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18 pages, 683 KiB  
Article
Subtle Patterns of Altered Responsiveness to Delayed Auditory Feedback during Finger Tapping in People Who Stutter
by Giorgio Lazzari, Robert van de Vorst, Floris T. van Vugt and Carlotta Lega
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(5), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14050472 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Differences in sensorimotor integration mechanisms have been observed between people who stutter (PWS) and controls who do not. Delayed auditory feedback (DAF) introduces timing discrepancies between perception and action, disrupting sequence production in verbal and non-verbal domains. While DAF consistently enhances speech fluency [...] Read more.
Differences in sensorimotor integration mechanisms have been observed between people who stutter (PWS) and controls who do not. Delayed auditory feedback (DAF) introduces timing discrepancies between perception and action, disrupting sequence production in verbal and non-verbal domains. While DAF consistently enhances speech fluency in PWS, its impact on non-verbal sensorimotor synchronization abilities remains unexplored. A total of 11 PWS and 13 matched controls completed five tasks: (1) unpaced tapping; (2) synchronization-continuation task (SCT) without auditory feedback; (3) SCT with DAF, with instruction either to align the sound in time with the metronome; or (4) to ignore the sound and align their physical tap to the metronome. Additionally, we measured participants’ sensitivity to detecting delayed feedback using a (5) delay discrimination task. Results showed that DAF significantly affected performance in controls as a function of delay duration, despite being irrelevant to the task. Conversely, PWS performance remained stable across delays. When auditory feedback was absent, no differences were found between PWS and controls. Moreover, PWS were less able to detect delays in speech and tapping tasks. These findings show subtle differences in non-verbal sensorimotor performance between PWS and controls, specifically when action–perception loops are disrupted by delays, contributing to models of sensorimotor integration in stuttering. Full article
13 pages, 866 KiB  
Article
Efficacy of a Lidocaine-Impregnated Elastrator Band for Castration and Tail Docking in Lambs
by Steven M. Roche, Brenda J. Ralston, Barbara Olson, Brendan D. Sharpe, Crystal Schatz, Kendall Beaugrand, Joseph A. Ross, Madeleine A. Broomfield, Nicolas Allan and Merle Olson
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1403; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101403 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to demonstrate the non-inferiority between lidocaine-impregnated ligation bands (LLBs) and control bands (CBs) with respect to the efficacy of castration and tail docking. Secondary objectives were to compare castration and tail-docking success, evaluate local site reactions, [...] Read more.
The primary objective of this study was to demonstrate the non-inferiority between lidocaine-impregnated ligation bands (LLBs) and control bands (CBs) with respect to the efficacy of castration and tail docking. Secondary objectives were to compare castration and tail-docking success, evaluate local site reactions, and compare average daily gain (ADG) between the treatment groups. A total of 238 male lambs were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive LLBs or CBs on their tail and scrotum. Lambs were weighed, had a health assessment, and the band site was observed on −3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 days after the bands were applied. A linear regression model was built to assess average daily gain, whereas a repeated measures model was used to evaluate body weight differences at each of the measured timepoints. Furthermore, logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations with casting outcomes. Few differences were noted between treatment groups with respect to casting success for the scrotum and tail and ADG over the entire experimental period. Non-inferiority calculations demonstrated no differences in tail docking and scrotal casting success, with casting occurring for the majority of animals by d 21 and d 42 for castration and tail docking, respectively. However, lambs receiving LLBs gained more weight from d −3 to 7 (+0.03 kg/d; 95% CI: 0 to 0.07), which may be an indication of effective pain control during the first week following band application. Overall, the use of an LLB does not affect the time to successful casting of the tail and could improve short-term growth when compared to a control band. Further studies are needed to compare LLBs to multimodal methods of pain relief. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)
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15 pages, 2952 KiB  
Article
Study on Preparation of Calcium-Based Modified Coal Gangue and Its Adsorption Dye Characteristics
by Yihan Wang, Yanrong Dong, Junli Shao, Zilong Zhao and Hongyu Zhai
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2183; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102183 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Efficient and thorough treatment of dye wastewater is essential to achieve ecological harmony. In this study, a new type of calcium-based modified coal gangue (Ca-CG) was prepared by using solid waste coal gangue as raw material and a CaCl2 modifier, which was [...] Read more.
Efficient and thorough treatment of dye wastewater is essential to achieve ecological harmony. In this study, a new type of calcium-based modified coal gangue (Ca-CG) was prepared by using solid waste coal gangue as raw material and a CaCl2 modifier, which was used for the removal of malachite green, methylene blue, crystal violet, methyl violet and other dyes in water. When the dosage of Ca-CG was 1–5 g/L, the dosage of Ca-CG was the main factor affecting the dye adsorption effect. The adsorption effects of Ca-CG on four dyes were as follows: malachite green > crystal violet > methylene blue > methyl violet. Kinetics, isotherms and thermodynamic analysis showed that the adsorption of malachite green, methyl blue, crystal violet and methyl violet by Ca-CG fitted the second-order kinetic model, and adsorption with chemical reaction is the main process. The adsorption of four dyes by Ca-CG conformed to the Freundlich model, which is dominated by multi-molecular layer adsorption, and the adsorption was easy to carry out. The adsorption process of Ca-CG on the four dyes was spontaneous. The results of FTIR, XRD and SEM showed that the calcium-based materials such as lipscombite and dolomite were the key to the adsorption of malachite green by Ca-CG, and the main mechanisms for the adsorption of malachite green by Ca-CG are surface precipitation, electrostatic action, and chelation reaction. Ca-CG adsorption has great potential for the removal of dye wastewater. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymers Based Materials for Water Treatment)
14 pages, 1047 KiB  
Review
The Role of POCUS to Face COVID-19: A Narrative Review
by Stefano Sartini, Lorenzo Ferrari, Ombretta Cutuli, Luca Castellani, Maria Luisa Cristina, Eleonora Arboscello and Marina Sartini
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 2756; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13102756 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
COVID-19 has been a challenging outbreak to face, with millions of deaths among the globe. Acute respiratory failure due to interstitial pneumonia was the leading cause of death other than prothrombotic activation and complications. Lung ultrasound (LUS) and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) are widely [...] Read more.
COVID-19 has been a challenging outbreak to face, with millions of deaths among the globe. Acute respiratory failure due to interstitial pneumonia was the leading cause of death other than prothrombotic activation and complications. Lung ultrasound (LUS) and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) are widely used not only to triage, to identify, and to monitor lungs involvement but also to assess hemodynamic status and thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications, mainly in critically ill patients. POCUS has gained growing consideration due to its bedside utilization, reliability, and reproducibility even in emergency settings especially in unstable patients. In this narrative review, we aim to describe LUS and POCUS utilization in COVID-19 infection based on the literature found on this topic. We reported the LUS patterns of COVID-19 pulmonary infection, the diagnostic accuracy with respect to CT lung scan, its prognostic value, the variety of scores and protocols proposed, and the utilization of POCUS to investigate the extra-lung complications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pulmonology)
24 pages, 8168 KiB  
Article
Overestimated Fog-Top Entrainment in WRF Simulation Leading to Unrealistic Dissipation of Sea Fog: A Case Study
by Li Zhang, Hao Shi, Shanhong Gao and Shun Li
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(10), 1656; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16101656 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Entrainment at the top of the planetary boundary layer (PBL) is of significant importance because it controls the upward growth of the PBL height. An option called ysu_topdown_pblmix, which provides a parameterization of fog-top entrainment, has been proposed for valley fog modeling and [...] Read more.
Entrainment at the top of the planetary boundary layer (PBL) is of significant importance because it controls the upward growth of the PBL height. An option called ysu_topdown_pblmix, which provides a parameterization of fog-top entrainment, has been proposed for valley fog modeling and introduced into the YSU (Yonsei University) PBL scheme in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. However, enabling this option in simulations of sea fog over the Yellow Sea typically results in unrealistic dissipation near the fog bottom and even within the entire fog layer. In this study, we theoretically examine the composition of the option ysu_topdown_pblmix, and then argue that one term in this option might be redundant for sea-fog modeling. The fog-top variables are employed in this term to determine the basic entrainment in the dry PBL, which is already parameterized by the surface variables in the original YSU PBL scheme. This term likely leads to an overestimation of the fog-top entrainment rate, so we refer to it as redundant. To explore the connection between the redundant term and unrealistic dissipation, a widespread sea-fog episode over the Yellow Sea is employed as a case study based on the WRF model. The simulation results clearly attribute the unrealistic dissipation to the extra entrainment rate that the redundant term induces. Fog-top entrainment is unexpectedly overestimated due to this extra entrainment rate, resulting in a significantly drier and warmer bias within the interior of sea fog. When sea fog develops and reaches a temperature lower than the sea surface, the sea surface functions as a warming source to heat the fog bottom jointly with the downward heat flux brought by the fog-top entrainment, leading the dissipation to initially occur near the fog bottom and then gradually expand upwards. We suggest a straightforward method to modify the option ysu_topdown_pblmix for sea-fog modeling that eliminates the redundant term. The improvement effect of this method was supported by the results of sensitivity tests. However, more sea-fog cases are required to validate the modification method. Full article
24 pages, 1491 KiB  
Article
Collaboration to Address the Challenges Faced by Smallholders in Practicing Organic Agriculture: A Case Study of the Organic Sorghum Industry in Zunyi City, China
by Sheng Wu and Shanwei Li
Agriculture 2024, 14(5), 726; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14050726 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
In many developing countries, organic agriculture is increasingly recognized as a key strategy for promoting rural economic development and improving farmer welfare. It is primarily smallholders who form the foundation of organic production in these areas. However, these farmers face significant challenges in [...] Read more.
In many developing countries, organic agriculture is increasingly recognized as a key strategy for promoting rural economic development and improving farmer welfare. It is primarily smallholders who form the foundation of organic production in these areas. However, these farmers face significant challenges in adopting organic farming methods. The aim of this paper is to investigate solutions to the challenges encountered by smallholders. This research utilizes an integrated approach and includes a case study of the organic sorghum sector in Zunyi, China. The findings indicate that (1) a robust partnership has been established between enterprises, government, and farmers in the organic sorghum industry in Zunyi. Enterprises purchase the sorghum, cover organic certification costs, and partially fund material inputs, while local government facilitates organization, coordination, and technical support, with farmers responsible for production. (2) This collaboration has catalyzed high-quality development in the industry, benefiting all stakeholders. (3) Through this collaborative model, common challenges faced by smallholders, such as obstacles in obtaining certification, income fluctuations, and unfair market conditions, have been mitigated. Consequently, smallholders secure stable and reliable income as they benefit from favorable contract prices for organic sorghum and the assumption by enterprises of most material input costs. This study offers valuable empirical evidence that can guide the expansion of organic agriculture in similar regions and countries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
9 pages, 905 KiB  
Article
The Relationship between Frontal QRS-T Angle and Vitamin D Deficiency
by Fulya Avcı Demir, Gülsüm Bingöl, İbrahim Ersoy, Akif Arslan, Pınar Ersoy, Meltem Demir and Serkan Ünlü
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 776; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050776 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: A deficiency in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels is associated with a number of cardiovascular situations, such as high blood pressure, heart failure, atherosclerotic heart disease, and peripheral artery disease. The frontal QRS-T angle has recently been proposed as a [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: A deficiency in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels is associated with a number of cardiovascular situations, such as high blood pressure, heart failure, atherosclerotic heart disease, and peripheral artery disease. The frontal QRS-T angle has recently been proposed as a marker of ventricular repolarization. A wider frontal QRS-T angle has been positively correlated with adverse cardiac events. The objective of our study was to examine the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and the frontal QRS-T angle. Materials and Methods: A total of 173 consecutive patients aged 18–60 years undergoing routine cardiology check-up evaluation, and not receiving concurrent vitamin D treatment were included in the study. Patients were classified in three groups, depending on their vitamin D levels, and categorized as follows: Group 1—deficient (<20 ng/mL), Group 2—insufficient (20–29 ng/mL), or Group 3—optimal (≥30 ng/mL). The frontal QRS-T angle was determined using the automated reports generated by the electrocardiography machine. Results: The average age of participants was 45.8 (±12.2) years, and 55.5% of participants were female (p < 0.001). Individuals with low vitamin D concentrations exhibited a wider frontal QRS-T angle. It was determined that vitamin D level is an independent predictive factor for the frontal QRS-T angle. Conclusions: As the levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D decrease, repolarization time assessed by frontal QRS-T angle is widened. Our findings indicate that lower concentrations of vitamin D may increase the susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights into Cardiovascular Diseases)
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17 pages, 521 KiB  
Article
A Higher Adherence to the ALINFA Nutritional Intervention Is Effective for Improving Dietary Patterns in Children
by Natalia Vázquez-Bolea, Naroa Andueza, Marta Cuervo and Santiago Navas-Carretero
Children 2024, 11(5), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11050559 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Food patterns are deteriorating and, consequently, not meeting nutritional recommendations. Learning about the adherence to a diet is crucial for understanding children’s dietary habits. The objective of the present analysis was to assess the degree of compliance with the ALINFA nutritional intervention and [...] Read more.
Food patterns are deteriorating and, consequently, not meeting nutritional recommendations. Learning about the adherence to a diet is crucial for understanding children’s dietary habits. The objective of the present analysis was to assess the degree of compliance with the ALINFA nutritional intervention and the effectiveness of adherence groups, and to evaluate potential baseline factors predicting a higher adherence to the intervention. A total of 44 children aged 6 to 12 years-old participated in the eight-week intervention. A two-week dietary plan was specifically designed, providing participants with food products, ready-to-eat dishes, and recipes. An intake of 75% of calories of the prescribed diet was defined to divide the participants into high- and low-adherence groups (HA/LA, respectively). From the 44 participants, 24 showed a LA to the intervention, whereas 20 of them were in the HA group. Diet quality improved in both groups (p < 0.001), mainly by increasing cereals and nuts, and reducing pastries. A decrease in BMI z-score was observed (LA: p < 0.001; HA: p = 0.021). Fat mass (p = 0.002), LDL-c (p = 0.036), and CRP (p = 0.023) reductions were only achieved in the HA group, whereas leptin decreased only in the LA group (p = 0.046). All participants ameliorated their dietary habits, but those with better diet quality at baseline experienced greater enhancements in their nutritional status. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition to Improve Child and Adolescent Health)
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22 pages, 2459 KiB  
Article
Energy Load Forecasting Techniques in Smart Grids: A Cross-Country Comparative Analysis
by Rachida Hachache, Mourad Labrahmi, António Grilo, Abdelaali Chaoub, Rachid Bennani, Ahmed Tamtaoui and Brahim Lakssir
Energies 2024, 17(10), 2251; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102251 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Energy management systems allow the Smart Grids industry to track, improve, and regulate energy use. Particularly, demand-side management is regarded as a crucial component of the entire Smart Grids system. Therefore, by aligning utility offers with customer demand, anticipating future energy demands is [...] Read more.
Energy management systems allow the Smart Grids industry to track, improve, and regulate energy use. Particularly, demand-side management is regarded as a crucial component of the entire Smart Grids system. Therefore, by aligning utility offers with customer demand, anticipating future energy demands is essential for regulating consumption. An updated examination of several forecasting techniques for projecting energy short-term load forecasts is provided in this article. Each class of algorithms, including statistical techniques, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and hybrid combinations, are comparatively evaluated and critically analyzed, based on three real consumption datasets from Spain, Germany, and the United States of America. To increase the size of tiny training datasets, this paper also proposes a data augmentation technique based on Generative Adversarial Networks. The results show that the Deep Learning-hybrid model is more accurate than traditional statistical methods and basic Machine Learning procedures. In the same direction, it is demonstrated that more comprehensive datasets assisted by complementary data, such as energy generation and weather, may significantly boost the accuracy of the models. Additionally, it is also demonstrated that Generative Adversarial Networks-based data augmentation may greatly improve algorithm accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A1: Smart Grids and Microgrids)
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7 pages, 903 KiB  
Opinion
Specific Extracellular Vesicles, Generated and Operating at Synapses, Contribute to Neuronal Effects and Signaling
by Jacopo Meldolesi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5103; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105103 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
In all cell types, small EVs, very abundant extracellular vesicles, are generated and accumulated within MVB endocytic cisternae. Upon MVB fusion and exocytosis with the plasma membrane, the EVs are released to the extracellular space. In the central nervous system, the release of [...] Read more.
In all cell types, small EVs, very abundant extracellular vesicles, are generated and accumulated within MVB endocytic cisternae. Upon MVB fusion and exocytosis with the plasma membrane, the EVs are released to the extracellular space. In the central nervous system, the release of neuronal EVs was believed to occur only from the surface of the body and dendrites. About 15 years ago, MVB cisternae and EVs were shown to exist and function at synaptic boutons, the terminals’ pre- and post-synaptic structures essential for canonical neurotransmitter release. Recent studies have revealed that synaptic EVs are peculiar in many respects and heterogeneous with respect to other neuronal EVs. The distribution of synaptic EVs and the effect of their specific molecules are found at critical sites of their distribution. The role of synaptic EVs could consist of the modulation of canonical neurotransmitter release or a distinct, non-canonical form of neurotransmission. Additional roles of synaptic EVs are still not completely known. In the future, additional investigations will clarify the role of synaptic EVs in pathology, concerning, for example, circuits, trans-synaptic transmission, diagnosis and the therapy of diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exosomes and Extracellular Vesicles in Health and Diseases 2.0)
14 pages, 474 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Response to Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy Upgrades in Patients with Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators and Pacemakers
by Arsalan Farhangee, Mark J. Davies, Mihai Mesina, David Roger Morgan, Benjamin J. Sieniewicz, Robyn Meyrick, Katie Gaughan and Ion Mîndrilă
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 2755; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13102755 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: The efficacy of de novo cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) in patients with heart failure (HF), left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD), and a broad QRS morphology is well established. However, the optimal stage for upgrading patients with existing pacemakers (PPMs) or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators [...] Read more.
Introduction: The efficacy of de novo cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) in patients with heart failure (HF), left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD), and a broad QRS morphology is well established. However, the optimal stage for upgrading patients with existing pacemakers (PPMs) or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) and HF with high-burden right ventricular (RV) pacing remains uncertain. Thus, this multicentre retrospective analysis compared patients with pre-existing PPMs or ICDs who underwent CRT upgrades to investigate the appropriate stage for CRT implantation in these patients and to assess the validity of treating both PPM and ICD recipients under the same recommendation level in the current guidelines. Materials and Methods: A total of 151 participants underwent analysis in this study, comprising 93 upgrades to cardiac resynchronisation therapy with pacemaker (CRT-P) and 58 upgrades to cardiac resynchronisation therapy with defibrillator (CRT-D) across three centres in the UK. The aim of the study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of upgrading to CRT from an existing conventional pacemaker or an ICD in the context of high-burden RV pacing. The analysis was conducted separately for each group, assessing changes in echocardiographic parameters, functional New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, and procedure-related complications. Results: The PPM group had a higher percentage RVP burden compared to the ICD group. Post-upgrade, NYHA functional class and EF and LV volumes improved in both groups; however, the response to an upgrade from a pacemaker was greater compared to an upgrade from an ICD. Post-procedural complication risks were similar across the two subgroups but significantly higher compared to de novo implantation. Conclusions: Within the CRT-P subgroup, participants exhibited better responses than their CRT-D counterparts, evident both in echocardiographic improvements and clinical outcomes. Furthermore, patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) were better responders than those with ischaemic cardiomyopathy. These findings suggest that international guidelines should consider approaching each subgroup separately in the future. Full article
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14 pages, 613 KiB  
Article
Automatic Evaluation Method for Functional Movement Screening Based on Multi-Scale Lightweight 3D Convolution and an Encoder–Decoder
by Xiuchun Lin, Yichao Liu, Chen Feng, Zhide Chen, Xu Yang and Hui Cui
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1813; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101813 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Functional Movement Screening (FMS) is a test used to evaluate fundamental movement patterns in the human body and identify functional limitations. However, the challenge of carrying out an automated assessment of FMS is that complex human movements are difficult to model accurately and [...] Read more.
Functional Movement Screening (FMS) is a test used to evaluate fundamental movement patterns in the human body and identify functional limitations. However, the challenge of carrying out an automated assessment of FMS is that complex human movements are difficult to model accurately and efficiently. To address this challenge, this paper proposes an automatic evaluation method for FMS based on a multi-scale lightweight 3D convolution encoder–decoder (ML3D-ED) architecture. This method adopts a self-built multi-scale lightweight 3D convolution architecture to extract features from videos. The extracted features are then processed using an encoder–decoder architecture and probabilistic integration technique to effectively predict the final score distribution. This architecture, compared with the traditional Two-Stream Inflated 3D ConvNet (I3D) network, offers a better performance and accuracy in capturing advanced human movement features in temporal and spatial dimensions. Specifically, the ML3D-ED backbone network reduces the number of parameters by 59.5% and the computational cost by 77.7% when compared to I3D. Experiments have shown that ML3D-ED achieves an accuracy of 93.33% on public datasets, demonstrating an improvement of approximately 9% over the best existing method. This outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of and advancements made by the ML3D-ED architecture and probabilistic integration technique in extracting advanced human movement features and evaluating functional movements. Full article
37 pages, 687 KiB  
Review
Innovations in Wheat Bread: Using Food Industry By-Products for Better Quality and Nutrition
by Piotr Zarzycki, Anna Wirkijowska, Dorota Teterycz and Paulina Łysakowska
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 3976; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14103976 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
The evolution of wheat bread as a dietary staple underscores its essential role in providing energy, protein, fiber, and vital nutrients. To address contemporary health challenges such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, fortifying wheat bread with health-promoting additives becomes imperative to [...] Read more.
The evolution of wheat bread as a dietary staple underscores its essential role in providing energy, protein, fiber, and vital nutrients. To address contemporary health challenges such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, fortifying wheat bread with health-promoting additives becomes imperative to mitigate deficiencies resulting from refined wheat flour consumption. Functional food innovations, aligned with sustainability goals and circular economy principles, offer promising approaches for addressing these concerns. Integrating by-products from fruits and oil crops into bread formulations enhances health benefits by boosting dietary fiber, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant potential. However, gaps persist in understanding anti-nutritional substances and contaminants in final products, necessitating further research for comprehensive safety assessments. The addition of by-product raw materials significantly influences dough rheology and sensory characteristics, potentially achieving quality comparable to traditional wheat bread. Challenges include inconsistencies in bread and by-product specifications across studies, hindering direct result comparison. Overcoming these obstacles is crucial for maximizing the potential of agri-food by-products in creating healthier, sustainable bread options while maintaining safety and quality standards. Full article
18 pages, 1189 KiB  
Article
Analytical Method for the Deformation-Based Design of Retaining Walls in Asymmetric Excavation
by Xiaozhen Fan, Changjie Xu, Luju Liang, Guohui Feng and Qiwei Wan
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1321; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051321 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Conventional methods for designing retaining structures are not applicable to asymmetric excavation or deformation-based designs. This study proposes a quadruple-line displacement-dependent earth pressure coefficient model. Based on the proposed model, an analytical solution was developed to facilitate the deformation-based design of the asymmetric [...] Read more.
Conventional methods for designing retaining structures are not applicable to asymmetric excavation or deformation-based designs. This study proposes a quadruple-line displacement-dependent earth pressure coefficient model. Based on the proposed model, an analytical solution was developed to facilitate the deformation-based design of the asymmetric length of retaining walls propped at the crest. Furthermore, the effects of the soil internal friction angle, strut stiffness, excavation asymmetry level, and deformation control value on the embedment ratio (Re) of retaining walls were investigated. The results showed that Re determined by the classical equivalent-beam method is unsafe due to its basis on the ultimate-state earth pressure theory. The Re value of the shallower side exhibited greater sensitivity to asymmetric excavation than that of the deeper side. The retaining structure’s required Re decreased with an increase in the excavation asymmetry level. The required Re on either side of the retaining structure decreased as the deformation control values increased. The controlled deformation had a more obvious effect on the Re value of the retaining structure on the deeper side. The proposed method can be used for the deformation-based design of asymmetric wall lengths of retaining structures propped at the crest, considering the different excavation depths on both sides. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
6 pages, 911 KiB  
Short Note
(E)-1-(5-(Hydroxymethyl) furan-2-yl)-4,4-dimethylpent-1-en-3-one
by Zhongwei Wang, Luxiao Zhou, Peng He and Yukun Qin
Molbank 2024, 2024(2), M1818; https://doi.org/10.3390/M1818 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
This study presents a novel approach in the realm of catalytic organic synthesis by integrating biomass catalytic conversion with organic synthesis techniques. Utilizing N-acetylglucosamine as the primary feedstock, the first phase of the research involves its catalytic transformation into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). The [...] Read more.
This study presents a novel approach in the realm of catalytic organic synthesis by integrating biomass catalytic conversion with organic synthesis techniques. Utilizing N-acetylglucosamine as the primary feedstock, the first phase of the research involves its catalytic transformation into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). The subsequent phase employs a condensation reaction between HMF and 3,3-Dimethyl-2-butanone to synthesize a new compound, (E)-1-(5-(hydroxymethyl) furan-2-yl)-4,4-dimethylpent-1-en-3-one. This two-step process not only demonstrates the feasibility of converting biomass into valuable chemical precursors but also exemplifies the synthesis of novel compounds through green chemistry principles. The successful execution of this methodology offers fresh insights and opens new avenues for advancements in catalytic organic synthesis, emphasizing sustainability and efficiency. Full article
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13 pages, 677 KiB  
Review
Gout and Gout-Related Comorbidities: Insight and Limitations from Population-Based Registers in Sweden
by Panagiota Drivelegka, Lennart TH Jacobsson and Mats Dehlin
Gout Urate Cryst. Depos. Dis. 2024, 2(2), 144-156; https://doi.org/10.3390/gucdd2020013 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Population-based databases in Nordic countries offer unique opportunities for large-scale population-based epidemiological studies. The personal identity number enables researchers to link different registers at the individual level, which can be used for large-scale epidemiological population-based studies. This review outlines how these opportunities have [...] Read more.
Population-based databases in Nordic countries offer unique opportunities for large-scale population-based epidemiological studies. The personal identity number enables researchers to link different registers at the individual level, which can be used for large-scale epidemiological population-based studies. This review outlines how these opportunities have been used so far in the field of gout research, as well as the potential challenges and limitations. Their major advantage is that they cover the entire population, minimizing problems such as selection bias and loss to follow-up. This has enabled us to provide information on gout regarding risk factors; occurrence; association with comorbidities in relation to gout onset; treatment patterns; as well as its effect on other outcomes, such as sick leave and mortality. Validity issues, missing data, and legal issues are some of the challenges that researchers need to deal with. Choosing the most appropriate combination of databases to use for a specific question is crucial in order to maximize validity and adjust for confounders. Despite challenges and potential limitations, the Swedish registers have provided valuable epidemiological results and will continue to play an important role in the years to come. Full article
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11 pages, 1934 KiB  
Article
Essential Oil of Psidium glaziovianum Kiaersk Alleviates the Effects of Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA)-Induced Arthritis by Regulating Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
by Wêndeo Kennedy Costa, João Victor de Oliveira Alves, Beatriz Meyruze Barros Da Fonseca, Valquíria Bruna Guimarães Silva, Rafael Jardim Ferreira, Thiago Henrique Napoleão, Patrícia Maria Guedes Paiva, Maria Tereza dos Santos Correia, Alisson Macário de Oliveira and Márcia Vanusa da Silva
Drugs Drug Candidates 2024, 3(2), 380-390; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc3020023 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic and debilitating condition that affects a significant number of individuals worldwide. Unfortunately, the currently available therapeutic approaches often yield unsatisfactory results and may be accompanied by harmful side effects. A medicinal plant called Psidium glaziovianum Kiaersk has [...] Read more.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic and debilitating condition that affects a significant number of individuals worldwide. Unfortunately, the currently available therapeutic approaches often yield unsatisfactory results and may be accompanied by harmful side effects. A medicinal plant called Psidium glaziovianum Kiaersk has potential benefits in the treatment of this condition due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In this study, our objective was to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of P. glaziovianum essential oil (PgEO) in alleviating arthritis symptoms in mice induced by Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA). The effect of P. glaziovianum essential oil was evaluated in mice with Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis. Edema sizes, macroscopic and radiographic images, cytokine levels, and oxidative stress were evaluated. Administration of PgEO at dosages of 50 and 100 mg/kg effectively prevented CFA-induced osteoarticular changes in arthritic mice, resulting in a significant reduction in joint damage. Additionally, the PgEO treatment exhibited the ability to minimize edema, a common symptom associated with arthritis. Furthermore, PgEO can modulate the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress, both of which play crucial roles in the progression of the disease. In conclusion, our study suggests that PgEO holds great potential as a natural therapeutic agent for rheumatoid arthritis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Preclinical Research)
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12 pages, 2883 KiB  
Article
Preclinical Testing of Chronic ICA-1S Exposure: A Potent Protein Kinase C-ι Inhibitor as a Potential Carcinoma Therapeutic
by Christopher A. Apostolatos, Wishrawana S. Ratnayake, Sloan Breedy, Jacqueline Kai Chin Chuah, James Alastair Miller, Daniele Zink, Marie Bourgeois and Mildred Acevedo-Duncan
Drugs Drug Candidates 2024, 3(2), 368-379; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc3020022 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Protein kinase C-iota (PKC-ι) is an oncogene overexpressed in many cancer cells including prostate, breast, ovarian, melanoma, and glioma cells. Previous in vitro studies have shown that 5-amino-1-((1R,2S,3R,4R)-2-3-dihydroxy-4-(hydroxymethyl)cyclopentyl)-1H-imidazole-4-carboxamide (ICA-1S), a PKC-ι-specific inhibitor, has low toxicity in both acute and sub-acute mouse model toxicological [...] Read more.
Protein kinase C-iota (PKC-ι) is an oncogene overexpressed in many cancer cells including prostate, breast, ovarian, melanoma, and glioma cells. Previous in vitro studies have shown that 5-amino-1-((1R,2S,3R,4R)-2-3-dihydroxy-4-(hydroxymethyl)cyclopentyl)-1H-imidazole-4-carboxamide (ICA-1S), a PKC-ι-specific inhibitor, has low toxicity in both acute and sub-acute mouse model toxicological testing and is an effective therapeutic against several cancer cell lines showing significant reductions in tumor growth when treating athymic nude mice with xenografted carcinoma cell lines. To further assess ICA-1S as a possible therapeutic agent, chronic mouse model toxicological testing was performed in vivo to provide inferences concerning the long-term effects and possible health hazards from repeated exposure over a substantial part of the animal’s lifespan. Subjects survived well after 30, 60, and 90 days of doses ranging from 50 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg. Heart, liver, kidney, and brain tissues were then analyzed for accumulations of ICA-1S including the measured assessment of aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALK-P), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), troponin, and C-reactive protein (CRP) serum levels to assess organ function. Predictive in vitro/in silico methods were used to predict compound-induced direct hepatocyte toxicity or renal proximal tubular cell (PTC) toxicity in humans based on the high-content imaging (HCI) of compound-treated cells in combination with phenotypic profiling. In conclusion, ICA-1S shows low toxicity in both acute and chronic toxicology studies, and shows promise as a potential therapeutic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Preclinical Research)
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24 pages, 3197 KiB  
Article
Tactile Speech Communication: Reception of Words and Two-Way Messages through a Phoneme-Based Display
by Jaehong Jung, Charlotte M. Reed, Juan S. Martinez and Hong Z. Tan
Virtual Worlds 2024, 3(2), 184-207; https://doi.org/10.3390/virtualworlds3020010 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
The long-term goal of this research is the development of a stand-alone tactile device for the communication of speech for persons with profound sensory deficits as well as for applications for persons with intact hearing and vision. Studies were conducted with a phoneme-based [...] Read more.
The long-term goal of this research is the development of a stand-alone tactile device for the communication of speech for persons with profound sensory deficits as well as for applications for persons with intact hearing and vision. Studies were conducted with a phoneme-based tactile display of speech consisting of a 4-by-6 array of tactors worn on the dorsal and ventral surfaces of the forearm. Unique tactile signals were assigned to the 39 English phonemes. Study I consisted of training and testing on the identification of 4-phoneme words. Performance on a trained set of 100 words averaged 87% across the three participants and generalized well to a novel set of words (77%). Study II consisted of two-way messaging between two users of TAPS (TActile Phonemic Sleeve) for 13 h over 45 days. The participants conversed with each other by inputting text that was translated into tactile phonemes sent over the device. Messages were identified with an accuracy of 73% correct in conjunction with 82% of the words. Although rates of communication were slow (roughly 1 message per minute), the results obtained with this ecologically valid procedure represent progress toward the goal of a stand-alone tactile device for speech communication. Full article
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15 pages, 881 KiB  
Review
Ultra-Processed Foods Consumption and Asthma in the Western Diet
by Carmen Frontela-Saseta, Graham Finlayson, Teresa Sánchez-Moya, Stefano Lorenzetti and Rubén López-Nicolás
Dietetics 2024, 3(2), 144-158; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics3020012 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Obesity is considered an important risk factor for the onset of asthma, playing a key role in enhancing the disease’s severity. However, there is increasing evidence linking not only obesity but also overweight with a higher risk of asthma. Although the correlation between [...] Read more.
Obesity is considered an important risk factor for the onset of asthma, playing a key role in enhancing the disease’s severity. However, there is increasing evidence linking not only obesity but also overweight with a higher risk of asthma. Although the correlation between obesity and asthma has already been reported, several aspects are still not fully elucidated, mainly about the inflammatory processes underlying both diseases. It is well known that Western-type calorically rich diets and overfeeding can act as triggers of chronic metabolic inflammation, but few studies have examined associations between ultra-processed foods (UPFs) intake, despite its positive correlation with obesity, and biomarkers of inflammation. In addition to their nutrient composition, UPF may have chemical additives and contaminants from packaging, whose effects on health and food addiction are still under research. In this review, we provide an overview of the current data that identify the associations between the obese asthma phenotype and UPF consumption, highlighting the potential central role played by the intestinal microbiota. Full article
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14 pages, 3023 KiB  
Article
Microplastic Volatile Organic Compounds Found within Chrysaora chesapeakei in the Patuxent River, Maryland
by Carol A. Smith, Santosh Mandal, Chunlei Fan and Saroj Pramanik
Microplastics 2024, 3(2), 250-263; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics3020015 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Microplastics are tangible particles of less than 0.2 inches in diameter that are ubiquitously distributed in the biosphere and accumulate in water bodies. During the east-coast hot summers (23–29 °C) of 2021 and 2022, June through September, we captured copious amounts of the [...] Read more.
Microplastics are tangible particles of less than 0.2 inches in diameter that are ubiquitously distributed in the biosphere and accumulate in water bodies. During the east-coast hot summers (23–29 °C) of 2021 and 2022, June through September, we captured copious amounts of the jellyfish Chrysaora chesapeakei, a predominant species found in the Patuxent River of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland on the United States East Coast. We determined that their gelatinous bodies trapped many microplastics through fluorescent microscopy studies using Rhodamine B staining and Raman Spectroscopy. The chemical nature of the microplastics was detected using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy headspace (SPME-GC-MS) and solvent extraction (GC-MS) methods through a professional commercial materials evaluation laboratory. Numerous plastic-affiliated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from diverse chemical origins and their functional groups (alkanes, alkenes, acids, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, esters, and alcohols) along with other non-microplastic volatile organic compounds were observed. Our findings corroborate data in the available scientific literature, distinguishing our finding’s suitability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microplastics in Aquatic Enviroments)
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11 pages, 569 KiB  
Review
Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Review of Maternal and Fetal Implications
by Antonino Maniaci, Luigi La Via, Basilio Pecorino, Benito Chiofalo, Giuseppe Scibilia, Salvatore Lavalle and Paolo Scollo
Neurol. Int. 2024, 16(3), 522-532; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint16030039 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent yet underdiagnosed condition in pregnancy, associated with various maternal and fetal complications. This review synthesizes the current evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and neurological consequences of OSA in pregnancy, along with the potential management strategies. Articles [...] Read more.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent yet underdiagnosed condition in pregnancy, associated with various maternal and fetal complications. This review synthesizes the current evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and neurological consequences of OSA in pregnancy, along with the potential management strategies. Articles were sourced from the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases until 2023. Our comprehensive review highlights that the incidence of OSA increases during pregnancy due to physiological changes such as weight gain and hormonal fluctuations. OSA in pregnancy is linked with gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and potential adverse fetal outcomes such as intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy remains the most effective management strategy for pregnant women with OSA. However, adherence to CPAP therapy is often suboptimal. This comprehensive review underscores the importance of the early recognition, timely diagnosis, and effective management of OSA in pregnancy to improve both maternal and fetal outcomes. Future research should focus on enhancing screening strategies and improving adherence to CPAP therapy in this population. Full article
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