The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
16 pages, 4590 KiB  
Article
Among Other Tissues, Short-Term Garlic Oral Treatment Incrementally Improves Indicants of Only Pancreatic Islets of Langerhans Histology and Insulin mRNA Transcription and Synthesis in Diabetic Rats
by Amani M. Al-Adsani and Khaled K. Al-Qattan
Biology 2024, 13(5), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050355 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The source, mRNA transcription, and synthesis of insulin in the pancreas, in addition to the bile duct and liver, in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats (DR) in response to garlic oral treatment are not yet clear. Objective: This study investigated the accumulative effects [...] Read more.
Background: The source, mRNA transcription, and synthesis of insulin in the pancreas, in addition to the bile duct and liver, in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats (DR) in response to garlic oral treatment are not yet clear. Objective: This study investigated the accumulative effects of continued garlic oral treatment on changes in the pancreas, bile duct, and liver with regards to: 1—Insulin mRNA transcription, synthesis, and concentration in relation to changes in serum insulin (SI); 2—Insulinogenic cells insulin intensity and distribution, proliferation, and morphology. Method: Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin concentration in serum and pancreas (PI) and sources and mRNA transcription in the pancreas, bile duct, and liver in normal rats given normal saline (NR-NS) and DR given either NS (DR-NS) or garlic extract (DR-GE) before and after 1, 4, and 8 weeks of oral treatment were examined. Results: Compared to NR-NS, DR-NS showed a significant increase in FBG and reductions in SI and PI and deterioration in islets histology, associated pancreatic insulin numerical intensities, and mRNA transcription. However, compared to DR-NS, the targeted biochemical, histological, and genetic variables of DR-GE were significantly and incrementally improved as garlic treatment continued. Insulin or its indicators were not detected either in the bile duct or the liver in DR-GE. Conclusions: 8 weeks of garlic oral treatment is enough to incrementally restore only pancreatic islets of Langerhans insulin intensity and insulinogenic cells proliferation, morphology, and distribution. These indices were associated with enhanced pancreatic insulin mRNA transcription and synthesis. Eight weeks of garlic treatment were not enough to stimulate insulinogenesis in either the bile duct or the liver. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Models of Pancreatic Diseases)
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8 pages, 3304 KiB  
Article
Novel Highly Efficient Buried Gratings for Selective Coupling of SPP Waves onto Single Interfaces
by Arif Nabizada, Hamed Tari, Alessandro Bile and Eugenio Fazio
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 878; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100878 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Diffraction gratings have always been used to effectively couple optical radiation within integrated waveguides. This is also valid for plasmonic structures that support Surface Plasmon Polariton (SPP) waves. Traditional gratings usually excite SPP waves at the interface where they are located or, for [...] Read more.
Diffraction gratings have always been used to effectively couple optical radiation within integrated waveguides. This is also valid for plasmonic structures that support Surface Plasmon Polariton (SPP) waves. Traditional gratings usually excite SPP waves at the interface where they are located or, for thin metal nanostrips, at both interfaces. But reducing the thickness of the metal layer in the presence of a grating has the handicap of increasing the tunnelling of light towards the substrate, which means higher losses and reduced coupling efficiency. In this paper, we design and optimize novel gratings buried within the metallic thin films for selective coupling of SPP waves onto individual interfaces. Compared with traditional superficial gratings, the novel buried ones demonstrate higher efficiency and much lower residual tunnelling of light through the coupling structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures)
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13 pages, 1163 KiB  
Article
Clinical Characteristics, Patterns of Care, and Treatment Outcomes of Radiation-Associated Sarcomas
by Rohit Raj, Han Gil Kim, Menglin Xu, Tyler Roach, David Liebner, David Konieczkowski and Gabriel Tinoco
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1918; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101918 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Radiation-associated sarcomas (RASs) are rare tumors with limited contemporary data to inform prognostication and management. We sought to identify the clinical presentation, patterns of care, and prognostic factors of RASs. RAS patients treated at a single institution from 2015 to 2021 were retrospectively [...] Read more.
Radiation-associated sarcomas (RASs) are rare tumors with limited contemporary data to inform prognostication and management. We sought to identify the clinical presentation, patterns of care, and prognostic factors of RASs. RAS patients treated at a single institution from 2015 to 2021 were retrospectively reviewed for clinicopathologic variables, treatment strategies, and outcomes. Thirty-eight patients were identified with a median follow-up of 30.5 months. The median age at RAS diagnosis was 68.4 years (27.9–85.4), with a median latency from index radiotherapy (RT) of 9.1 years (3.7–46.3). RAS histologies included angiosarcoma (26%), undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (21%), and osteosarcoma (18%). Most were high-grade (76%). Genomic profiling revealed low tumor mutational burden, frequent inactivating TP53 mutations (44%), CDKN2A deletions (26%), and MYC amplifications (22%), particularly in breast angiosarcomas. Of 38 patients, 33 presented with localized disease, 26 of whom were treated with curative intent. Overall, the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 9.5 months (1.4–34.7), and the overall survival (OS) was 11.1 months (0.6–31.6). Patients with localized vs. metastatic RASs had a longer PFS (HR 3.0 [1.1–8.5]; p = 0.03) and OS (HR, 3.0 [1.04–8.68]; p = 0.03). Among localized RAS patients, high grade was associated with shorter OS (HR, 4.6 [1.04–20.30]; p = 0.03) and resection with longer OS (mean 58.8 vs. 6.1 months, HR, 0.1 [0.03–0.28]; p < 0.001). Among patients undergoing resection, negative margins were associated with improved OS (mean 71.0 vs. 15.5 months, HR, 5.1 [1.4–18.2]; p = 0.006). Patients with localized disease, particularly those undergoing R0 resection, demonstrated significantly better outcomes. Novel strategies are urgently needed to improve treatment outcomes in this challenging group of diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Research of Cancer)
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7 pages, 2144 KiB  
Case Report
Anterior Esthetic Restorations with the Stratified Stamp Technique: A Case Report
by Camillo D’Arcangelo, Matteo Buonvivere and Francesco De Angelis
Biomimetics 2024, 9(5), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9050299 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Anterior teeth restoration represents a challenge for dentists, who often rely on the dental technician’s wax-up. The proposed Stratified Stamp Technique (SST) allows for clinically reproducing the wax-up in a quick and easy way. A patient with fractures and discoloration on the upper [...] Read more.
Anterior teeth restoration represents a challenge for dentists, who often rely on the dental technician’s wax-up. The proposed Stratified Stamp Technique (SST) allows for clinically reproducing the wax-up in a quick and easy way. A patient with fractures and discoloration on the upper central incisors was treated with resin-based composite direct restorations. Using SST, a 1 mm thick thermoformed polyethylene-terephthalate-glycol (PETG) template, based on the technician’s wax-up, was produced. Enamel Selective Area Reduction (SAR) was performed to guarantee adequate space for the restorations, and the fracture margins were rounded and finished. Traditional layering procedures according to the five color dimensions of teeth were performed, except for the final labial layer, which was realized with warm composite loaded inside the template and polymerized through it, in order to ensure accurate tooth morphology reproduction. SST offers a reliable method for transferring technician’s wax-up morphology to direct composite restorations in anterior teeth. Compared with other methods, SST allows for better isolation with a rubber dam and permits traditional layering with multiple composite shades, thus leading to satisfactory esthetic outcomes. Full article
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16 pages, 971 KiB  
Review
Therapeutic Effects of Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Oxidant Nutritional Supplementation in Retinal Ischemic Diseases
by Deokho Lee, Zhongjie Fu, Ann Hellstrom and Lois E. H. Smith
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5503; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105503 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Appropriate nutrients are essential for cellular function. Dietary components can alter the risk of systemic metabolic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and obesity, and can also affect retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. Dietary nutrients have been assessed [...] Read more.
Appropriate nutrients are essential for cellular function. Dietary components can alter the risk of systemic metabolic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and obesity, and can also affect retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. Dietary nutrients have been assessed for the prevention or treatment of retinal ischemic diseases and the diseases of aging. In this article, we review clinical and experimental evidence concerning the potential of some nutritional supplements to prevent or treat retinal ischemic diseases and provide further insights into the therapeutic effects of nutritional supplementation on retinopathies. We will review the roles of nutrients in preventing or protecting against retinal ischemic diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Roles of Inflammation in Retinal and Optic Nerve Pathologies)
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11 pages, 421 KiB  
Article
Use of Different Iron Preparations for Prophylaxis and Effects on Iron Status in Infancy
by Merve Tosyalı, Yavuz Demirçelik, Özlem Bağ, Utku Karaarslan, Şule Gökçe and Feyza Koç
Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 1043; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12101043 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate using different iron preparations for iron deficiency and/or iron deficiency anemia prophylaxis in infants and their iron status. Methods: In this study, we retrospectively evaluated the electronic patient records of 651 healthy children aged 9 to 13 months who met [...] Read more.
Aim: To evaluate using different iron preparations for iron deficiency and/or iron deficiency anemia prophylaxis in infants and their iron status. Methods: In this study, we retrospectively evaluated the electronic patient records of 651 healthy children aged 9 to 13 months who met the inclusion criteria and who were followed up in pediatric follow-up outpatient clinics between January 2023 and June 2023. Results: A total of 651 children with a mean age of 11.2 ± 1.4 months, 54.7% of whom were boys, who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study; 56.5% of the children were using Fe + 3 salt and the others were using Fe + 2 salt, microencapsulated iron, or sucrosomial iron drops. After the fifth month of prophylaxis, when the effects of the iron preparations used on the mean laboratory values were evaluated, it was found that hemoglobin, serum iron, and ferritin levels were lower in sucrosomial iron and microencapsulated iron users compared to other preparations (p = 0.001). When statistically pairwise comparisons were made between the groups, hemoglobin and serum iron values were found to be lower in the group using sucrosomial iron compared to the groups using Fe + 2 and Fe + 3 salts (p < 0.0001). Hemoglobin and ferritin levels were higher in the group using Fe + 2 salt compared to both sucrosomial iron and microencapsulated iron groups (p < 0.0001). When the infants were evaluated according to iron status, it was found that 208 (31.9%) had iron deficiency. Iron deficiency was found to be less in infants of families who defined their economic status as rich and in infants who used iron regularly (p-values 0.044 and 0.001, respectively). Iron deficiency/iron deficiency anemia was observed at a higher rate in the group using sucrosomial iron and microencapsulated iron prophylaxis (p = 0.001). Conclusions: To prevent iron deficiency, it is very important to use appropriate iron preparations for prophylaxis and to feed foods with high iron content. Although we found that families were willing to use different iron preparations other than iron salts for their infants, the results presented herein indicate that the rate of iron deficiency was lower in patients using iron salts. However, randomized controlled studies are needed to determine whether these preparations are effective in iron prophylaxis in infants. Full article
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16 pages, 1502 KiB  
Article
Modeling the Electrical Activity of the Heart via Transfer Functions and Genetic Algorithms
by Omar Rodríguez-Abreo, Mayra Cruz-Fernandez, Carlos Fuentes-Silva, Mario A. Quiroz-Juárez and José L. Aragón
Biomimetics 2024, 9(5), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9050300 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Although healthcare and medical technology have advanced significantly over the past few decades, heart disease continues to be a major cause of mortality globally. Electrocardiography (ECG) is one of the most widely used tools for the detection of heart diseases. This study presents [...] Read more.
Although healthcare and medical technology have advanced significantly over the past few decades, heart disease continues to be a major cause of mortality globally. Electrocardiography (ECG) is one of the most widely used tools for the detection of heart diseases. This study presents a mathematical model based on transfer functions that allows for the exploration and optimization of heart dynamics in Laplace space using a genetic algorithm (GA). The transfer function parameters were fine-tuned using the GA, with clinical ECG records serving as reference signals. The proposed model, which is based on polynomials and delays, approximates a real ECG with a root-mean-square error of 4.7% and an R2 value of 0.72. The model achieves the periodic nature of an ECG signal by using a single periodic impulse input. Its simplicity makes it possible to adjust waveform parameters with a predetermined understanding of their effects, which can be used to generate both arrhythmic patterns and healthy signals. This is a notable advantage over other models that are burdened by a large number of differential equations and many parameters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nature-Inspired Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithms 2024)
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24 pages, 4907 KiB  
Article
Advances in Deep Learning Recognition of Landslides Based on Remote Sensing Images
by Gong Cheng, Zixuan Wang, Cheng Huang, Yingdong Yang, Jun Hu, Xiangsheng Yan, Yilun Tan, Lingyi Liao, Xingwang Zhou, Yufang Li, Syed Hussain, Mohamed Faisal and Huan Li
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(10), 1787; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16101787 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Against the backdrop of global warming and increased rainfall, the hazards and potential risks of landslides are increasing. The rapid generation of a landslide inventory is of great significance for landslide disaster prevention and reduction. Deep learning has been widely applied in landslide [...] Read more.
Against the backdrop of global warming and increased rainfall, the hazards and potential risks of landslides are increasing. The rapid generation of a landslide inventory is of great significance for landslide disaster prevention and reduction. Deep learning has been widely applied in landslide identification due to its advantages in terms of its deeper model structure, high efficiency, and high accuracy. This article first provides an overview of deep learning technology and its basic principles, as well as the current status of landslide remote sensing databases. Then, classic landslide deep learning recognition models such as AlexNet, ResNet, YOLO, Mask R-CNN, U-Net, Transformer, EfficientNet, DeeplabV3+ and PSPNet were introduced, and the advantages and limitations of each model were extensively analyzed. Finally, the current constraints of deep learning in landslide identification were summarized, and the development direction of deep learning in landslide identification was analyzed. The purpose of this article is to promote the in-depth development of landslide identification research in order to provide academic references for the prevention and mitigation of landslide disasters and post-disaster rescue work. The research results indicate that deep learning methods have the characteristics of high efficiency and accuracy in automatic landslide recognition, and more attention should be paid to the development of emerging deep learning models in landslide recognition in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Earth Observation for Emergency Management)
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4 pages, 154 KiB  
Editorial
Recent Advances in Robotics and Intelligent Robots Applications
by Qi Song and Qinglei Zhao
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4279; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104279 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Robotics research has a unique allure for both academia and the industry due to its potential for groundbreaking innovation and real-world applications [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Robotics and Intelligent Robots Applications)
12 pages, 4077 KiB  
Article
First-Principles Study of Discharge Products and Their Stability for Lithium-Nitrogen Batteries
by Guoxiong Qu, Xudong Zhao, Chengdong Wei, Hongyi Zhang, Yutong Yang, Hongtao Xue and Fuling Tang
Materials 2024, 17(10), 2429; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17102429 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Li-N2 batteries present a relatively novel approach to N2 immobilization, and an advanced N2/Li3N cycling method is introduced in this study. The low operating overpotential of metal–air batteries is quite favorable to their stable cycling performance, providing [...] Read more.
Li-N2 batteries present a relatively novel approach to N2 immobilization, and an advanced N2/Li3N cycling method is introduced in this study. The low operating overpotential of metal–air batteries is quite favorable to their stable cycling performance, providing a prospect for the development of a new type of battery with extreme voltage. The battery system of Li-N2 uses N2 as the positive electrode, lithium metal as the negative electrode, and a conductive medium containing soluble lithium salts as the electrolyte. In accordance with its voltage-distribution trend, a variety of lithium-nitrogen molecule intermediates are produced during the discharge process. There is a lack of theoretical description of material changes at the microscopic level during the discharge process. In this paper, the first-principles approach is used to simulate and analyze possible material changes during the discharge process of Li-N2 batteries. The discharge process is simulated on a 4N-graphene anode substrate model, and simulations of its electrostatic potential, Density of States (DOS), HOMO (Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital) and LUMO (Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital) aspects confirm that the experimentally found Li3N becomes the final stabilized product of the Li-N2 battery. It can also be seen in the density of states that graphene with adsorption of 4N transforms from semiconducting to metallic properties. In addition, the differential charge also indicates that the Li-N2 material has a strong adsorption effect on the substrate, which can play the dual role of electricity storage and nitrogen fixation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Electrode Materials for Batteries)
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12 pages, 3112 KiB  
Article
Rapid Waste Motor Oil Conversion into Diesel-Range Hydrocarbons Using Hydrochar as Catalyst: Kinetic Study and Product Characterization
by Herman A. Murillo, Evelyn Juiña, Karla Vizuete, Alexis Debut, Daniel Echeverría, Sebastian Taco-Vasquez and Sebastian Ponce
Recycling 2024, 9(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9030039 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Herein, raw and alkali-treated hydrochars from biomass waste are prepared as a highly active catalyst for the conversion of waste motor oil into diesel-like fuels. Among all materials, hydrochar obtained at 250 °C and subsequent alkali activation with KOH showed a 600% improvement [...] Read more.
Herein, raw and alkali-treated hydrochars from biomass waste are prepared as a highly active catalyst for the conversion of waste motor oil into diesel-like fuels. Among all materials, hydrochar obtained at 250 °C and subsequent alkali activation with KOH showed a 600% improvement of the kinetic constant from 0.0088 to 0.0614 m−1. Conversion values at the same conditions were also improved from 66 to 80% regarding thermal and catalytic cracking, respectively. Moreover, the activation energy was also reduced from 293 to 246 kJ mol−1 for thermal and catalytic cracking, respectively. After characterization, the enhanced catalytic activity was correlated to an increased surface area and functionalization due to the alkali activation. Finally, the liquid product characterization demonstrated that catalytic cracking is more effective than thermal cracking for producing hydrocarbons in the diesel range. In particular, hydrochar-based catalysts are suggested to promote the formation of specific hydrocarbons so that the carbon distribution can be tailored by modifying the hydrothermal treatment temperature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resource Recovery from Waste Biomass)
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38 pages, 6677 KiB  
Article
Modeling of Cooperative Robotic Systems and Predictive Control Applied to Biped Robots and UAV-UGV Docking with Task Prioritization
by Baris Taner  and Kamesh Subbarao
Sensors 2024, 24(10), 3189; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24103189 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
This paper studies a cooperative modeling framework to reduce the complexity in deriving the governing dynamical equations of complex systems composed of multiple bodies such as biped robots and unmanned aerial and ground vehicles. The approach also allows for an optimization-based trajectory generation [...] Read more.
This paper studies a cooperative modeling framework to reduce the complexity in deriving the governing dynamical equations of complex systems composed of multiple bodies such as biped robots and unmanned aerial and ground vehicles. The approach also allows for an optimization-based trajectory generation for the complex system. This work also studies a fast–slow model predictive control strategy with task prioritization to perform docking maneuvers on cooperative systems. The method allows agents and a single agent to perform a docking maneuver. In addition, agents give different priorities to a specific subset of shared states. In this way, overall degrees of freedom to achieve the docking task are distributed among various subsets of the task space. The fast–slow model predictive control strategy uses non-linear and linear model predictive control formulations such that docking is handled as a non-linear problem until agents are close enough, where direct transcription is calculated using the Euler discretization method. During this phase, the trajectory generated is tracked with a linear model predictive controller and addresses the close proximity motion to complete docking. The trajectory generation and modeling is demonstrated on a biped robot, and the proposed MPC framework is illustrated in a case study, where a quadcopter docks on a non-holonomic rover using a leader–follower topology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensors and Robotics)
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25 pages, 454 KiB  
Article
Impacts of Crop-Specific Agricultural Practices on the Accumulation of Heavy Metals in Soil in Kvemo Kartli Region (Georgia): A Preliminary Assessment
by Giorgi Gventsadze, Giorgi Ghambashidze, Zaur Chankseliani, Ioseb Sarjveladze and Winfried E. H. Blum
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4244; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104244 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Maintaining sufficient levels of plant nutrients in the soil and controlling certain heavy metals, which can be toxic to the environment, are critical to ensure sustainable agricultural production. The study aimed to assess the linkage of crop-specific agricultural practices established by farmers in [...] Read more.
Maintaining sufficient levels of plant nutrients in the soil and controlling certain heavy metals, which can be toxic to the environment, are critical to ensure sustainable agricultural production. The study aimed to assess the linkage of crop-specific agricultural practices established by farmers in the Kvemo Kartli region (Georgia) with metal accumulation in soils of agricultural lands being subject to influence from polluted irrigation water in the past. In particular, we tried to identify the primary sources of micro-nutrients, including iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn), and toxic elements such as cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), and the share of the contaminated irrigation water and other factors related to agricultural practices under different land uses, such as intensive and extensive arable farming, vineyards, orchards, and permanent pastures having the least disturbed soil. Based on principal component analysis, five primary sources were identified and categorized according to farmer interviews and previous studies conducted in the region. The results showed that increased concentrations of plant-available Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were mainly associated with irrigation water and intensive use of fungicides; Fe, Mn, and Ni were closely linked to several factors, such as the mineralogical composition of soils, minerals, and organic fertilizers inputs; and atmospheric deposition from diffuse sources, where exhausts from transport are probably the primary source. During our study, we attempted to differentiate irrigation water inputs from fungicides using simulation based on irrigation patterns and irrigation water quality on the one hand and fungicide application rates and their metal contents on the other. The simulation revealed that the intensive application of fungicides, especially in vineyards, is more significant in enriching soils with Cu and Zn than irrigation water. Identification of factorial dependences was supported by statistical analysis and application of several contamination assessment methods: contamination factor (CF), pollution load index (PLI), single-factor pollution index (PI), Nemerow’s comprehensive pollution index (PIN), enrichment factor (EF), and geo-accumulation index (Igeo). Applied environmental indices indicate that the soils under the former and existing vineyards are the most enriched with Cu and Zn, highlighting the significance of agricultural practices on heavy metal accumulations in the soils of agricultural lands. Full article
30 pages, 2541 KiB  
Article
Non-Linear Creep-Relaxation Constitutive Damage Model for Aging Concrete
by Bernardo T. Terán-Torres, Jamshid Mohammadi, Sudhakar E. Nair, José M. Mendoza-Rangel, Ismael Flores-Vivian and César A. Juárez-Alvarado
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4270; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104270 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
A thermodynamic constitutive damage model for plain concrete, and other quasi-brittle aging materials, under creep relaxation is developed. The model accounts for the anisotropic damage induced through a second-order tensor damage variable. The aging viscoelasticity of the material is considered through the theory [...] Read more.
A thermodynamic constitutive damage model for plain concrete, and other quasi-brittle aging materials, under creep relaxation is developed. The model accounts for the anisotropic damage induced through a second-order tensor damage variable. The aging viscoelasticity of the material is considered through the theory of solidification for aging solidifying materials. The material is considered a viscoelastic-damageable material. The Helmholtz free energy, utilized in the formulation, is treated based on the representation theorem of coupled damage strain tensors and Volterra integral equations. The model can analyze time-dependent damage (tertiary creep) under constant loading and can account for damage due to cyclic creep. Theoretical case studies are considered to illustrate the applicability of the model. The determination of the functions and constants, representing the material behavior, as well as any experimental companion is proposed for further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Mechanics in Materials and Construction)
9 pages, 1563 KiB  
Communication
Impact of Titanium Skull Plate on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: Analysis of Induced Electric Fields
by Mai Lu and Shoogo Ueno
Life 2024, 14(5), 642; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14050642 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Implanted titanium skull plates (TSPs) in cranioplasty are used to replace or reconstruct areas of the skull that have been damaged or removed due to trauma, surgery, or other medical conditions. However, the presence of a TSP in the head may influence [...] Read more.
Background: Implanted titanium skull plates (TSPs) in cranioplasty are used to replace or reconstruct areas of the skull that have been damaged or removed due to trauma, surgery, or other medical conditions. However, the presence of a TSP in the head may influence the distribution of the electric field induced during transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) procedures. The purpose of this study was to determine how the presence of TSP would interfere with TMS-induced cortical electric fields. Methods: The TMS with a figure-of-eight coil was applied to a realistic head model with TSPs. The distribution of the induced electric field in head tissues was calculated by employing the impedance method, and the results were compared with that of a normal head without TSP. Results: Simulation results show that the distribution of the induced electric field has changed greatly for the head model with TSP. The maximum value of the induced electric field in head tissues was present under one of the circular coil wings rather than in the tissues beneath the junction of the two wings of the Fo8 coil. Conclusions: The induced electric field in deep brain regions was increased for the head model with TSP, which could potentially lead to deep brain stimulation. Since the presence of metallic TSP can greatly influence the distribution of the induced electric field in TMS applications, it is important to adjust the treatment scheme when considering TMS for individuals with cranial titanium plates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art in Non-invasive Brain Stimulation)
12 pages, 443 KiB  
Article
Relationship between Maternal Socioeconomic Factors and Preterm Birth in Latvia
by Katrīne Kūkoja, Anita Villeruša and Irisa Zīle-Velika
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 826; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050826 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Worldwide, preterm birth (PTB) stands as the primary cause of mortality among children under 5 years old. Socioeconomic factors significantly impact pregnancy outcomes, influencing both maternal well-being and newborn health. Understanding and addressing these socioeconomic factors is essential for developing [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Worldwide, preterm birth (PTB) stands as the primary cause of mortality among children under 5 years old. Socioeconomic factors significantly impact pregnancy outcomes, influencing both maternal well-being and newborn health. Understanding and addressing these socioeconomic factors is essential for developing effective public health interventions and policies aimed at improving pregnancy outcomes. This study aims to analyse the relationship between socioeconomic factors (education level, marital status, place of residence and nationality) and PTB in Latvia, considering mother’s health habits, health status, and pregnancy process. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Medical Birth Register (MBR) of Latvia about women with singleton pregnancies in 2022 (n = 15,431). Data analysis, involving crosstabs, chi-square tests, and multivariable binary logistic regression, was performed. Adjusted Odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. Results: Lower maternal education was statistically significantly associated with increased odds of PTB. Mothers with education levels below secondary education had over two times higher odds of PTB (aOR = 2.07, p < 0.001, CI 1.58–2.70) and those with secondary or vocational secondary education had one and a half times higher odds (aOR = 1.58, p < 0.001, CI 1.33–1.87) after adjusting for other risk factors. Study results also showed the cumulative effect of socioeconomic risk factors on PTB. Additionally, mothers facing two or three socioeconomic risk factors in Latvia exhibited one and a half times higher odds of PTB (aOR = 1.59, p = 0.021). Conclusions: The study highlights the cumulative impact of socioeconomic risk factors on PTB, with higher maternal education demonstrating the highest protective effect against it. This underscores the importance of education in promoting optimal foetal development. Since the influence of socioeconomic factors on PTB is not a widely studied issue in Latvia, further research is needed to improve understanding of this complex topic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Epidemiology & Public Health)
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14 pages, 297 KiB  
Article
Markov Chains and Kinetic Theory: A Possible Application to Socio-Economic Problems
by Bruno Carbonaro and Marco Menale
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1571; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101571 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
A very important class of models widely used nowadays to describe and predict, at least in stochastic terms, the behavior of many-particle systems (where the word “particle” is not meant in the purely mechanical sense: particles can be cells of a living tissue, [...] Read more.
A very important class of models widely used nowadays to describe and predict, at least in stochastic terms, the behavior of many-particle systems (where the word “particle” is not meant in the purely mechanical sense: particles can be cells of a living tissue, or cars in a traffic flow, or even members of an animal or human population) is the Kinetic Theory for Active Particles, i.e., a scheme of possible generalizations and re-interpretations of the Boltzmann equation. Now, though in the literature on the subject this point is systematically disregarded, this scheme is based on Markov Chains, which are special stochastic processes with important properties they share with many natural processes. This circumstance is here carefully discussed not only to suggest the different ways in which Markov Chains can intervene in equations describing the stochastic behavior of any many-particle system, but also, as a preliminary methodological step, to point out the way in which the notion of a Markov Chain can be suitably generalized to this aim. As a final result of the discussion, we find how to develop new very plausible and likely ways to take into account possible effects of the external world on a non-isolated many-particle system, with particular attention paid to socio-economic problems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Kinetic Models of Collective Phenomena and Data Science)
25 pages, 666 KiB  
Article
New Bivariate Copulas via Lomax Distribution Generated Distortions
by Fadal Abdullah Ali Aldhufairi and Jungsywan H. Sepanski
AppliedMath 2024, 4(2), 641-665; https://doi.org/10.3390/appliedmath4020035 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
We develop a framework for creating distortion functions that are used to construct new bivariate copulas. It is achieved by transforming non-negative random variables with Lomax-related distributions. In this paper, we apply the distortions to the base copulas of independence, Clayton, Frank, and [...] Read more.
We develop a framework for creating distortion functions that are used to construct new bivariate copulas. It is achieved by transforming non-negative random variables with Lomax-related distributions. In this paper, we apply the distortions to the base copulas of independence, Clayton, Frank, and Gumbel copulas. The properties of the tail dependence coefficient, tail order, and concordance ordering are explored for the new families of distorted copulas. We conducted an empirical study using the daily net returns of Amazon and Google stocks from January 2014 to December 2023. We compared the popular Clayton, Gumbel, Frank, and Gaussian copula models to their corresponding distorted copula models induced by the unit-Lomax and unit-inverse Pareto distortions. The new families of distortion copulas are equipped with additional parameters inherent in the distortion function, providing more flexibility, and are demonstrated to perform better than the base copulas. After analyzing the data, we have found that the joint extremes of Amazon and Google stocks are more likely for high daily net returns than for low daily net returns. Full article
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16 pages, 1070 KiB  
Article
Density and Composition of Cohabiting Bacteria in Chlorella vulgaris CCAP 211/21A is Influenced by Changes in Nutrient Supply
by Wasayf J Almalki, Alison O. Nwokeoji and Seetharaman Vaidyanathan
SynBio 2024, 2(2), 190-205; https://doi.org/10.3390/synbio2020011 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Microalgae have considerable potential as a renewable feedstock for biochemical and bioethanol production that can be employed in processes associated with carbon capture. Large-scale microalgae cultivations are often non-axenic and are often cohabited by bacteria. A better understanding of the influence of cohabiting [...] Read more.
Microalgae have considerable potential as a renewable feedstock for biochemical and bioethanol production that can be employed in processes associated with carbon capture. Large-scale microalgae cultivations are often non-axenic and are often cohabited by bacteria. A better understanding of the influence of cohabiting bacteria on microalgae productivity is required to develop sustainable synthetic co-culture processes at scale. Nutrient limitation is a frequently employed strategy in algal cultivations to accumulate energy reserves, such as lipids and carbohydrates. Here, a non-axenic culture of an estuarine green microalga, Chlorella vulgaris CCAP 211/21A, was studied under nutrient replete and deplete conditions to assess how changes in nutrient supply influenced the cohabiting bacterial population and its association with intracellular carbohydrate accumulations in the alga. Nutrient limitation resulted in a maximum carbohydrate yield of 47%, which was 74% higher than that in nutrient replete conditions. However, the latter condition elicited a 2-fold higher carbohydrate productivity. Three cohabiting bacterial isolates were cultivable from the three culture conditions tested. These isolates were identified using the 16S rRNA gene sequence to belong to Halomonas sp. and Muricauda sp. The composition of the bacterial population varied significantly between the growth conditions and time points. In all cases and at all time points, the dominant species was Halomonas isolates. Nutrient depletion resulted in an apparent loss of Muricauda sp. This finding demonstrates that nutrient supply can be used to control cohabiting bacterial populations in algal cultures, which will enable the development of synthetic co-culture strategies for improving algae productivity. Full article
39 pages, 1895 KiB  
Review
Comparing Redox and Intracellular Signalling Responses to Cold Plasma in Wound Healing and Cancer
by Adrian I. Abdo and Zlatko Kopecki
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(5), 4885-4923; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46050294 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Cold plasma (CP) is an ionised gas containing excited molecules and ions, radicals, and free electrons, and which emits electric fields and UV radiation. CP is potently antimicrobial, and can be applied safely to biological tissue, birthing the field of plasma medicine. Reactive [...] Read more.
Cold plasma (CP) is an ionised gas containing excited molecules and ions, radicals, and free electrons, and which emits electric fields and UV radiation. CP is potently antimicrobial, and can be applied safely to biological tissue, birthing the field of plasma medicine. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) produced by CP affect biological processes directly or indirectly via the modification of cellular lipids, proteins, DNA, and intracellular signalling pathways. CP can be applied at lower levels for oxidative eustress to activate cell proliferation, motility, migration, and antioxidant production in normal cells, mainly potentiated by the unfolded protein response, the nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-activated antioxidant response element, and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway, which also activates nuclear factor-kappa B (NFκB). At higher CP exposures, inactivation, apoptosis, and autophagy of malignant cells can occur via the degradation of the PI3K/Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-dependent and -independent activation of the master tumour suppressor p53, leading to caspase-mediated cell death. These opposing responses validate a hormesis approach to plasma medicine. Clinical applications of CP are becoming increasingly realised in wound healing, while clinical effectiveness in tumours is currently coming to light. This review will outline advances in plasma medicine and compare the main redox and intracellular signalling responses to CP in wound healing and cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research on Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress)
14 pages, 1063 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Cognitive Function in Romanian Patients with Chronic Alcohol Consumption
by Shandiz Morega, Claudiu-Marinel Ionele, Mihaela-Andreea Podeanu, Dan-Nicolae Florescu and Ion Rogoveanu
Gastroenterol. Insights 2024, 15(2), 433-446; https://doi.org/10.3390/gastroent15020031 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Alcoholism presents a significant health concern with notable socioeconomic implications. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) can manifest when individuals cease or drastically reduce their alcohol consumption after prolonged use. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by substantial lipid accumulation in the liver cells [...] Read more.
Alcoholism presents a significant health concern with notable socioeconomic implications. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) can manifest when individuals cease or drastically reduce their alcohol consumption after prolonged use. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by substantial lipid accumulation in the liver cells of individuals with no history of alcohol consumption. There is evidence suggesting an association between cognitive impairment and both conditions. This study aimed to evaluate cognitive impairment in patients with NAFLD and AWS using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). This study involved 120 patients admitted to two hospitals in Craiova, Romania. Results indicated that patients with NAFLD did not exhibit cognitive impairment as measured by MMSE (Mean = 29.27, SD = 0.785). Conversely, patients with AWS showed more pronounced cognitive dysfunction, with a mean MMSE score at admission of 16.60 ± 4.097 and 24.60 ± 2.832 after 2 weeks under treatment with Vitamins B1 and B6 and Cerebrolysin. Additionally, our findings suggested that cognitive dysfunction among alcohol consumers was correlated with the severity of clinical symptoms, as demonstrated by the severity of tremors in our study. The two-week period under treatment and alcohol withdrawal was insufficient for cognitive function to return to normal levels. Observational studies on longer periods of time are advised. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novelties in Diagnostics and Therapeutics in Hepatology: 2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 993 KiB  
Communication
The Crucial Role of Interdisciplinary Conferences in Advancing Explainable AI in Healthcare
by Ankush U. Patel, Qiangqiang Gu, Ronda Esper, Danielle Maeser and Nicole Maeser
BioMedInformatics 2024, 4(2), 1363-1383; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedinformatics4020075 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
As artificial intelligence (AI) integrates within the intersecting domains of healthcare and computational biology, developing interpretable models tailored to medical contexts is met with significant challenges. Explainable AI (XAI) is vital for fostering trust and enabling effective use of AI in healthcare, particularly [...] Read more.
As artificial intelligence (AI) integrates within the intersecting domains of healthcare and computational biology, developing interpretable models tailored to medical contexts is met with significant challenges. Explainable AI (XAI) is vital for fostering trust and enabling effective use of AI in healthcare, particularly in image-based specialties such as pathology and radiology where adjunctive AI solutions for diagnostic image analysis are increasingly utilized. Overcoming these challenges necessitates interdisciplinary collaboration, essential for advancing XAI to enhance patient care. This commentary underscores the critical role of interdisciplinary conferences in promoting the necessary cross-disciplinary exchange for XAI innovation. A literature review was conducted to identify key challenges, best practices, and case studies related to interdisciplinary collaboration for XAI in healthcare. The distinctive contributions of specialized conferences in fostering dialogue, driving innovation, and influencing research directions were scrutinized. Best practices and recommendations for fostering collaboration, organizing conferences, and achieving targeted XAI solutions were adapted from the literature. By enabling crucial collaborative junctures that drive XAI progress, interdisciplinary conferences integrate diverse insights to produce new ideas, identify knowledge gaps, crystallize solutions, and spur long-term partnerships that generate high-impact research. Thoughtful structuring of these events, such as including sessions focused on theoretical foundations, real-world applications, and standardized evaluation, along with ample networking opportunities, is key to directing varied expertise toward overcoming core challenges. Successful collaborations depend on building mutual understanding and respect, clear communication, defined roles, and a shared commitment to the ethical development of robust, interpretable models. Specialized conferences are essential to shape the future of explainable AI and computational biology, contributing to improved patient outcomes and healthcare innovations. Recognizing the catalytic power of this collaborative model is key to accelerating the innovation and implementation of interpretable AI in medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Computational Intelligence and Bioinformatics (CIB))
20 pages, 332 KiB  
Article
Constructive Journalistic Roles in Environments of Social Complexity and Political Crisis
by Alfredo Rojas-Calderón
Journal. Media 2024, 5(2), 626-645; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia5020042 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
This exploratory and analytical research examines secondary sources to propose a résumé of professional roles for journalists to revitalize their roles within social and political coexistence. It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications, enhancing journalists’ impact on public [...] Read more.
This exploratory and analytical research examines secondary sources to propose a résumé of professional roles for journalists to revitalize their roles within social and political coexistence. It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications, enhancing journalists’ impact on public discourse and informed decision-making. Empirical research will guide these roles’ implementation in real-world journalistic practices. Twelve explanatory and constructive journalistic roles are formulated, whose relevance and application are enhanced in societies undergoing crisis situations or serious difficulties and are at risk of rupture in coexistence. In conclusion, the role of journalists in the current circumstances of crises in democratic societies requires them to not only report on events but also provide context, analysis, and solutions to the complex issues faced by society. Journalistic functions such as contextualization, public interest promotion, dialogue, and motivation are considered fundamental beyond constructive journalism or solutions journalism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Roles of Journalism and Disruptive Media: A Challenging Future)

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