The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
11 pages, 2186 KiB  
Article
Nanoimprinted TiO2 Metasurfaces with Reduced Meta-Atom Aspect Ratio and Enhanced Performance for Holographic Imaging
by Kaiyu Zhang, Yuqi Lin, Yang Qiu, Xingyan Zhao, Shaonan Zheng, Yuan Dong, Qize Zhong and Ting Hu
Materials 2024, 17(10), 2273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17102273 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Metasurface holograms, with the capability to manipulate spatial light amplitudes and phases, are considered next-generation solutions for holographic imaging. However, conventional fabrication approaches for meta-atoms are heavily dependent on electron-beam lithography (EBL), a technique known for its expensive and time-consuming nature. In this [...] Read more.
Metasurface holograms, with the capability to manipulate spatial light amplitudes and phases, are considered next-generation solutions for holographic imaging. However, conventional fabrication approaches for meta-atoms are heavily dependent on electron-beam lithography (EBL), a technique known for its expensive and time-consuming nature. In this paper, a polarization-insensitive metasurface hologram is proposed using a cost-effective and rapid nanoimprinting method with titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticle loaded polymer (NLP). Based on a simulation, it has been found that, despite a reduction in the aspect ratio of meta-atoms of nearly 20%, which is beneficial to silicon master etching, NLP filling, and the mold release processes, imaging efficiency can go up to 54% at wavelength of 532 nm. In addition, it demonstrates acceptable imaging quality at wavelengths of 473 and 671 nm. Moreover, the influence of fabrication errors and nanoimprinting material degradation in terms of residual layer thickness, meta-atom loss or fracture, thermal-induced dimensional variation, non-uniform distribution of TiO2 particles, etc., on the performance is investigated. The simulation results indicate that the proposed device exhibits a high tolerance to these defects, proving its applicability and robustness in practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metasurface Optics and Devices)
12 pages, 509 KiB  
Article
Point-of-Care Method T2Bacteria®Panel Enables a More Sensitive and Rapid Diagnosis of Bacterial Blood Stream Infections and a Shorter Time until Targeted Therapy Than Blood Culture
by Tamara Clodi-Seitz, Sebastian Baumgartner, Michael Turner, Theresa Mader, Julian Hind, Christoph Wenisch, Alexander Zoufaly and Elisabeth Presterl
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 967; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050967 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Rapid diagnosis and identification of pathogens are pivotal for appropriate therapy of blood stream infections. The T2Bacteria®Panel, a culture-independent assay for the detection of Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and [...] Read more.
Background: Rapid diagnosis and identification of pathogens are pivotal for appropriate therapy of blood stream infections. The T2Bacteria®Panel, a culture-independent assay for the detection of Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in blood, was evaluated under real-world conditions as a point-of-care method including patients admitted to the internal medicine ward due to suspected blood stream infection. Methods: Patients were assigned to two groups (standard of care—SOC vs. T2). In the SOC group 2 × 2 blood culture samples were collected, in the T2 group the T2Bacteria®Panel was performed additionally for pathogen identification. Results: A total of 94 patients were included. Pathogens were detected in 19 of 50 patients (38%) in the T2 group compared to 16 of 44 patients (36.4%) in the SOC group. The median time until pathogen detection was significantly shorter in the T2 group (4.5 h vs. 60 h, p < 0.001), as well as the time until targeted therapy (antibiotic with the narrowest spectrum and maximal effectiveness) (6.4 h vs. 42.2 h, p = 0.043). Conclusions: The implementation of the T2Bacteria®Panel for patients with sepsis leads to an earlier targeted antimicrobial therapy resulting in earlier sufficient treatment and decreased excessive usage of broad-spectrum antimicrobials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacteremia and Sepsis)
13 pages, 686 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Impact of Novel BRCA1 Exon 11 Variants on Pre-mRNA Splicing
by Halla Elshwekh, Inas M. Alhudiri, Adam Elzagheid, Nabil Enattah, Yasmine Abbassi, Lubna Abou Assali, Ilenia Marino, Cristiana Stuani, Emanuele Buratti and Maurizio Romano
Cells 2024, 13(10), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13100824 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Our study focused on assessing the effects of three newly identified BRCA1 exon 11 variants (c.1019T>C, c.2363T>G, and c.3192T>C) on breast cancer susceptibility. Using computational predictions and experimental splicing assays, we evaluated their potential as pathogenic mutations. Our in silico analyses suggested that [...] Read more.
Our study focused on assessing the effects of three newly identified BRCA1 exon 11 variants (c.1019T>C, c.2363T>G, and c.3192T>C) on breast cancer susceptibility. Using computational predictions and experimental splicing assays, we evaluated their potential as pathogenic mutations. Our in silico analyses suggested that the c.2363T>G and c.3192T>C variants could impact both splicing and protein function, resulting in the V340A and V788G mutations, respectively. We further examined their splicing effects using minigene assays in MCF7 and SKBR3 breast cancer cell lines. Interestingly, we found that the c.2363T>G variant significantly altered splicing patterns in MCF7 cells but not in SKBR3 cells. This finding suggests a potential influence of cellular context on the variant’s effects. While attempts to correlate in silico predictions with RNA binding factors were inconclusive, this observation underscores the complexity of splicing regulation. Splicing is governed by various factors, including cellular contexts and protein interactions, making it challenging to predict outcomes accurately. Further research is needed to fully understand the functional consequences of the c.2363T>G variant in breast cancer pathogenesis. Integrating computational predictions with experimental data will provide valuable insights into the role of alternative splicing regulation in different breast cancer types and stages. Full article
22 pages, 1984 KiB  
Review
Harnessing Agri-Food Waste as a Source of Biopolymers for Agriculture
by Carlotta Valle, Monica Voss, Emanuela Calcio Gaudino, Claudio Forte, Giancarlo Cravotto and Silvia Tabasso
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4089; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104089 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Nowadays, the world is facing a general problem of resource overconsumption and waste overproduction: to address these two issues, the United Nations delivered the 12th Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which has the objective of ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. Currently, polymers are [...] Read more.
Nowadays, the world is facing a general problem of resource overconsumption and waste overproduction: to address these two issues, the United Nations delivered the 12th Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which has the objective of ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. Currently, polymers are present in every aspect of our lives and have the disadvantage of mostly coming from fossil sources and causing pollution when disposed of the wrong way. Agriculture plays a key role in the overall world environmental issues, being responsible for the creation of between 13 and 21% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Moreover, it represents a continuously growing field, producing large amounts of waste. These residues can cause serious environmental concerns and high costs when disposed. However, agri-food waste (AFW) is a natural source of natural biopolymers, such as lignin, cellulose, pectin, and starch, but can also be used as a substrate to produce other non-toxic and biodegradable biopolymers, such as chitosan, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and polylactic acid (PLA) through microbial fermentation. These polymers find applications in agricultural practices such as mulching films, soil stabilizers, hydrogels, nanocarriers, and coating for seeds, fruits, and vegetables. The employment of AFW in the production of non-toxic, sustainable, and biodegradable biopolymers for their agricultural utilization is an example of a virtuous circular economy approach that could help agriculture to be more sustainable. Full article
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13 pages, 3151 KiB  
Article
Fine Mapping of Candidate Gene Controlling Anthocyanin Biosynthesis for Purple Peel in Solanum melongena L.
by Kai Xiao, Feng Tan, Aidong Zhang, Yaru Zhou, Weimin Zhu, Chonglai Bao, Dingshi Zha and Xuexia Wu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5241; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105241 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Fruit color is an intuitive quality of horticultural crops that can be used as an evaluation criterion for fruit ripening and is an important factor affecting consumers’ purchase choices. In this study, a genetic population from the cross of green peel ‘Qidong’ and [...] Read more.
Fruit color is an intuitive quality of horticultural crops that can be used as an evaluation criterion for fruit ripening and is an important factor affecting consumers’ purchase choices. In this study, a genetic population from the cross of green peel ‘Qidong’ and purple peel ‘8 guo’ revealed that the purple to green color of eggplant peel is dominant and controlled by a pair of alleles. Bulked segregant analysis (BSA), SNP haplotyping, and fine genetic mapping delimited candidate genes to a 350 kb region of eggplant chromosome 10 flanked by markers KA2381 and CA8828. One ANS gene (EGP22363) was predicted to be a candidate gene based on gene annotation and sequence alignment of the 350-kb region. Sequence analysis revealed that a single base mutation of ‘T’ to ‘C’ on the exon green peel, which caused hydrophobicity to become hydrophilic serine, led to a change in the three-level spatial structure. Additionally, EGP22363 was more highly expressed in purple peels than in green peels. Collectively, EGP22363 is a strong candidate gene for anthocyanin biosynthesis in purple eggplant peels. These results provide important information for molecular marker-assisted selection in eggplants, and a basis for analyzing the regulatory pathways responsible for anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plant Genomics and Genetics)
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15 pages, 6143 KiB  
Article
A Novel Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Active Inertial Sensor for Drug Detection
by Erietta Vasilaki, Emmanouil Markoulakis, Diamanto Lazari, Antonia Psaroudaki, Ioannis Barbounakis and Emmanuel Antonidakis
Sensors 2024, 24(10), 3059; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24103059 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate a new discovery regarding the interaction between materials and very low radio frequencies. Specifically, we observed a feedback response on an inertia active sensor when specific frequencies (around 2–4 kHz) are used to irradiate targeted [...] Read more.
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate a new discovery regarding the interaction between materials and very low radio frequencies. Specifically, we observed a feedback response on an inertia active sensor when specific frequencies (around 2–4 kHz) are used to irradiate targeted pharmaceutical samples like aspirin or paracetamol drugs. The characteristics of this phenomenon, such as excitation and relaxation time, the relation between deceleration and a material’s quantity, and signal amplitude, are presented and analyzed. Although the underlying physics of this phenomenon is not yet known, we have shown that it has potential applications in remote identification of compounds, detection, and location sensing, as well as identifying substances that exist in plants without the need for any processing. This method is fast, accurate, low-cost, non-destructive, and non-invasive, making it a valuable area for further research that could yield spectacular results in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)
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10 pages, 551 KiB  
Article
Prevalence of T-2 Toxin in the Food and Beverages of Residents Living in a Kashin–Beck-Disease Area of Qamdo, Tibet
by Tong Jiang, Junan Yan, Hongxing Tan, Zhu Pu, Ou Wang, Tao Liu, Zhaoyu Chen, Jiaxiang Gao, Jun Wang, Jianhao Lin, Junsheng Huo and Jian Huang
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1449; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101449 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
It has been strongly suggested that selenium deficiency and T-2 toxin contamination have a strong relationship with the occurrence and development of Kashin–Beck disease (KBD). In order to provide information for understanding the high prevalence of KBD in Tibet, this study collected the [...] Read more.
It has been strongly suggested that selenium deficiency and T-2 toxin contamination have a strong relationship with the occurrence and development of Kashin–Beck disease (KBD). In order to provide information for understanding the high prevalence of KBD in Tibet, this study collected the responses to a cubital venous blood and dietary questionnaire of 125 subjects including 75 KBD patients and 50 healthy controls in a KBD-prevalent county (Luolong County) in Tibet, China. A total of 10 household local families were randomly selected in this area, and local diet samples of brick tea, Zanba powder, milk residue, and hulless Barley were collected from these residents. Selenium content in blood was detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The T-2 toxin contamination level in food sample was assayed using an ELISA kit. The selenium levels of patients and controls were 42.0 ± 19.8 and 56.06 ± 22.4 μg/L, respectively. The serum selenium level in controls was higher than that in patients, but there was no significant difference, and the serum selenium level both in patients and controls in Tibet was lower than the normal range. The results of the dietary survey showed that the number of respondents who consumed butter tea was large; 46.67% of patients indicated that they drank buttered tea every day, which was significantly higher than in controls. The contents of T-2 toxin in Zanba powder, milk residue, hulless barley and drinking water samples were below the detection limit (0.05 μg/kg); this result was labeled Tr. Unexpectedly, the contents of T-2 toxin in brick tea were higher, with average levels of 424 ± 56 μg/kg in Detong village and 396 ± 24 μg/kg in Langcuo village. For the first time, we report the presence of an extremely high concentration of T-2 toxin in brick tea of Tibet. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
13 pages, 320 KiB  
Article
Effect of Trichoderma spp. Fungi and Phytium oligandrum on Maiden Apple Tree Growth and Photosynthesis in the Nursery
by Sławomir Świerczyński and Barbara Frąszczak
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051020 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The conducted experiment evaluated the effects of three fungi—Trichoderma atroviride (Ta), Trichoderma harzianum (Th) and Phytium oligandrum (Po)—on the growth of maidens of two apple cultivars, ‘Szampion’ and ‘Topaz’, budded on two rootstocks, M.9 and M.26, in the nursery. The evaluation was [...] Read more.
The conducted experiment evaluated the effects of three fungi—Trichoderma atroviride (Ta), Trichoderma harzianum (Th) and Phytium oligandrum (Po)—on the growth of maidens of two apple cultivars, ‘Szampion’ and ‘Topaz’, budded on two rootstocks, M.9 and M.26, in the nursery. The evaluation was based on the number of maidens obtained and their height, trunk diameter and number and length of lateral shoots, as well as the fresh weight of the leaves and the whole maiden. For the weaker-growing maidens of the ‘Topaz’ cultivar, the activity of the photosynthetic apparatus was additionally measured depending on the rootstock and fungal treatments. The number of maidens obtained improved significantly when Th (8.3–9.0%) and Po (8.4–12.8%) were applied, depending on the rootstock and cultivar used. With the best treatment with the Po fungus, on average, for the two cultivars, maiden apple trees budded on the M.9 dwarf rootstock were characterized by a significantly better height of 6% and trunk diameter of 13% compared to the control. In contrast, trees grown on the M.26 rootstock did not have significantly increased growth after the same treatments, with the exception of the Po fungus, which improved the stem diameter by an average of 10%. The use of fungi stimulated an increase in the number and length of the lateral shoots of maidens of the more easily branching ‘Szampion’ apple tree cultivar. Based on the fluorescence parameters obtained, it can be assumed that the ‘Topaz’ cultivar on the M.26 rootstock is less susceptible to stress conditions, especially those related to high temperatures and drought. All fungi used had a positive effect on the activity of the photosynthetic apparatus. Significantly worse values of the fluorescence parameters were obtained for the control combination compared to the fungal treatments. Full article
26 pages, 3150 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in the Degradability and Applications of Tissue Adhesives Based on Biodegradable Polymers
by Shuzhuang Zhu, Wenguang Dou, Xiaojun Zeng, Xingchao Chen, Yonglin Gao, Hongliang Liu and Sidi Li
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5249; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105249 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In clinical practice, tissue adhesives have emerged as an alternative tool for wound treatments due to their advantages in ease of use, rapid application, less pain, and minimal tissue damage. Since most tissue adhesives are designed for internal use or wound treatments, the [...] Read more.
In clinical practice, tissue adhesives have emerged as an alternative tool for wound treatments due to their advantages in ease of use, rapid application, less pain, and minimal tissue damage. Since most tissue adhesives are designed for internal use or wound treatments, the biodegradation of adhesives is important. To endow tissue adhesives with biodegradability, in the past few decades, various biodegradable polymers, either natural polymers (such as chitosan, hyaluronic acid, gelatin, chondroitin sulfate, starch, sodium alginate, glucans, pectin, functional proteins, and peptides) or synthetic polymers (such as poly(lactic acid), polyurethanes, polycaprolactone, and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)), have been utilized to develop novel biodegradable tissue adhesives. Incorporated biodegradable polymers are degraded in vivo with time under specific conditions, leading to the destruction of the structure and the further degradation of tissue adhesives. In this review, we first summarize the strategies of utilizing biodegradable polymers to develop tissue adhesives. Furthermore, we provide a symmetric overview of the biodegradable polymers used for tissue adhesives, with a specific focus on the degradability and applications of these tissue adhesives. Additionally, the challenges and perspectives of biodegradable polymer-based tissue adhesives are discussed. We expect that this review can provide new inspirations for the design of novel biodegradable tissue adhesives for biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodegradable Polymer: Structure, Properties and Applications)
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17 pages, 1792 KiB  
Article
Design and Development of an Air–Land Amphibious Inspection Drone for Fusion Reactor
by Guodong Qin, Youzhi Xu, Wei He, Qian Qi, Lei Zheng, Haimin Hu, Yong Cheng, Congju Zuo, Deyang Zhang and Aihong Ji
Drones 2024, 8(5), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones8050190 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
This paper proposes a design method for a miniature air–land amphibious inspection drone (AAID) to be used in the latest compact fusion reactor discharge gap observation mission. Utilizing the amphibious function, the AAID realizes the function of crawling transportation in the narrow maintenance [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a design method for a miniature air–land amphibious inspection drone (AAID) to be used in the latest compact fusion reactor discharge gap observation mission. Utilizing the amphibious function, the AAID realizes the function of crawling transportation in the narrow maintenance channel and flying observation inside the fusion reactor. To realize miniaturization, the mobile platform adopts the bionic cockroach wheel-legged system to improve the obstacle-crossing ability. The flight platform adopts an integrated rotor structure with frame and control to reduce the overall weight of the AAID. Based on the AAID dynamic model and the optimal control method, the control strategies under flight mode, hover mode and fly–crawl transition are designed, respectively. Finally, the prototype of the AAID is established, and the crawling, hovering, and fly–crawling transition control experiments are carried out, respectively. The test results show that the maximum crawling inclination of the AAID is more than 20°. The roll angle, pitch angle, and yaw angle deviation of the AAID during hovering are all less than 2°. The landing success rate of the AAID during the fly–crawl transition phase also exceeded 77%, proving the effectiveness of the structural design and dynamic control strategy. Full article
24 pages, 3639 KiB  
Article
Design, Simulation and Optimization of a Novel Transpired Tubular Solar Air Heater
by Hossain Nemati
Energies 2024, 17(10), 2323; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102323 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, a novel tubular solar air heater is introduced. In this air heater, the hot boundary layer is drawn into the absorber tube and can provide thermal energy at moderate temperatures. Several different cases were simulated and a correlation was proposed [...] Read more.
In this paper, a novel tubular solar air heater is introduced. In this air heater, the hot boundary layer is drawn into the absorber tube and can provide thermal energy at moderate temperatures. Several different cases were simulated and a correlation was proposed to predict the collector’s effectiveness as a function Rayleigh number and Reynolds number. An equation was derived to find the effectiveness of this collector. Finally, a real case was studied with non-uniform solar flux distribution, as well as radiation heat loss. Good agreement was found between the results and those derived by the proposed analytical method. For different suction values, the first-law and the second-law efficiencies were calculated. Based on the exergy analysis, exergy destruction in absorption is the dominant factor that is unavoidable in low-temperature collectors. It was shown that there is an optimum suction value at which the second-law efficiency is maximized. At the optimum point, temperature rise can reach 54 K, which is hardly possible with a flat plate collector. Based on the exergy analysis, the relation between tube wall temperature and air outlet temperature in their dimensionless forms at the optimum working condition was derived, and it was shown that effectiveness at the optimum working condition is around 0.5. This means that the air temperature rise shall be half of the temperature difference between collector wall and the ambient temperatures. A high outlet temperature besides the low cost of construction and maintenance are the main advantages of this air heater. With such a high temperature rise, this type of collector can increase the use of solar energy in domestic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Heating and Cooling)
14 pages, 1881 KiB  
Article
An Examination of Mental Stress in College Students: Utilizing Intelligent Perception Data and the Mental Stress Scale
by Zhixuan Liao, Xiaomao Fan, Wenjun Ma and Yingshan Shen
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1501; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101501 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
In order to solve the problems of traditional mental stress detection in college students that are time-consuming, random, and subjective, this paper proposes an intelligent perception-driven mental stress assessment method for college students. First, we analyze the factors in SRQ and SCL-90, which [...] Read more.
In order to solve the problems of traditional mental stress detection in college students that are time-consuming, random, and subjective, this paper proposes an intelligent perception-driven mental stress assessment method for college students. First, we analyze the factors in SRQ and SCL-90, which can be measured by intelligent sensing methods, including sleep, exercise, social interaction, and environment, and then perform feature extraction. Secondly, we use machine learning methods to build a mental stress assessment model. The Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) model is used to explain the training results. Experimental results show that the model proposed in this article can effectively assess the mental stress state of college students. This means that the collection of intelligent perception data based on the mental stress scale can effectively evaluate the mental stress state of college students and provide a new research idea for further developing a non-intrusive and real-time mental stress assessment for college students. Full article
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32 pages, 3046 KiB  
Review
Advancements in Nanosystems for Ocular Drug Delivery: A Focus on Pediatric Retinoblastoma
by Kevin Y. Wu, Xingao C. Wang, Maude Anderson and Simon D. Tran
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2263; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102263 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The eye’s complex anatomical structures present formidable barriers to effective drug delivery across a range of ocular diseases, from anterior to posterior segment pathologies. Emerging as a promising solution to these challenges, nanotechnology-based platforms—including but not limited to liposomes, dendrimers, and micelles—have shown [...] Read more.
The eye’s complex anatomical structures present formidable barriers to effective drug delivery across a range of ocular diseases, from anterior to posterior segment pathologies. Emerging as a promising solution to these challenges, nanotechnology-based platforms—including but not limited to liposomes, dendrimers, and micelles—have shown the potential to revolutionize ophthalmic therapeutics. These nanocarriers enhance drug bioavailability, increase residence time in targeted ocular tissues, and offer precise, localized delivery, minimizing systemic side effects. Focusing on pediatric ophthalmology, particularly on retinoblastoma, this review delves into the recent advancements in functionalized nanosystems for drug delivery. Covering the literature from 2017 to 2023, it comprehensively examines these nanocarriers’ potential impact on transforming the treatment landscape for retinoblastoma. The review highlights the critical role of these platforms in overcoming the unique pediatric eye barriers, thus enhancing treatment efficacy. It underscores the necessity for ongoing research to realize the full clinical potential of these innovative drug delivery systems in pediatric ophthalmology. Full article
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6 pages, 516 KiB  
Editorial
Plant-Growth-Promoting Bacteria
by Carmen Bianco
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101323 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Global food-production levels may soon be insufficient for feeding the population, and changing climatic conditions could further limit agri-food production [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria)
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15 pages, 9886 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Effectiveness of Pruning in an Olive Orchard Using a Drone and a Multispectral Camera: A Three-Year Study
by Eliseo Roma, Pietro Catania, Mariangela Vallone and Santo Orlando
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051023 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The uses of precision oliviculture have increased in recent years to improve the quality and quantity of extra virgin olive oil. In traditional and intensive systems, biennial pruning is often applied to balance and maintain plant vigour, aiming at reducing management costs. This [...] Read more.
The uses of precision oliviculture have increased in recent years to improve the quality and quantity of extra virgin olive oil. In traditional and intensive systems, biennial pruning is often applied to balance and maintain plant vigour, aiming at reducing management costs. This study presents the results of a three-year experiment with the objective of quantifying the effects of biennial pruning on the vegetative vigour of olive trees, investigating the geometric and spectral characteristics of each canopy determined with multispectral images acquired by UAV. The experiment was carried out in an olive orchard located in western Sicily (Italy). Multispectral images were acquired using a UAV in automatic flight configuration at an altitude of 70 m a.g.l. The segmentation and classification of the images were performed using Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) based on the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and orthomosaic to extract the canopy area, height, volume and NDVI for each plant. This study showed that the technology and image analysis processing used were able to estimate vigour parameters at different canopy densities, compared to field measurements (R2 = 0.97 and 0.96 for canopy area and volume, respectively). Furthermore, it was possible to determine the amount of removed biomass for each plant and vigour level. Biennial pruning decreased the number of plants initially classified as LV (low-vigour) and maintained a vegetative balance for MV (medium-vigour) and HV (high-vigour) plants, reducing the spatial variability in the field. Full article
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23 pages, 41083 KiB  
Article
Reducing Aerodynamic Drag on Roof-Mounted Lightbars for Emergency Vehicles
by Michael Gerard Connolly, Malachy J. O’Rourke and Alojz Ivankovic
Fluids 2024, 9(5), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/fluids9050113 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
This paper investigates the impact of contemporary lightbars on vehicle fuel efficiency with a focus on quantifying their effects on fuel consumption and exploring strategies to improve drag performance through modifications. Simulations showed an 8–11% increase in drag for square-back vehicles, with greater [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the impact of contemporary lightbars on vehicle fuel efficiency with a focus on quantifying their effects on fuel consumption and exploring strategies to improve drag performance through modifications. Simulations showed an 8–11% increase in drag for square-back vehicles, with greater penalties outlined for vehicles with rear-slanting roofs. Given the moderate drag increase, the impact on the driving range, especially for electric vehicles, remains minimal, supporting the continued use of external lightbars. Positioning experiments suggest marginal drag reductions when lowering the lightbar to its lowest position due to additional drag effects that can be caused by the mounting mechanism in its condensed form. Angling the lightbar showed negligible drag increases up to an angle of 2.5 degrees, but beyond that, a 4% increase in drag was observed for every additional 2.5 degrees. Additionally, fitting drag-reducing ramps ahead of the lightbar yielded no significant drag savings. Noise analysis identified that the lightbar’s wake and rear surfaces were responsible for the largest production of noise. The optimal lightbar design was found to incorporate overflow rather than underflow and rear tapering in sync with roof curvature. Appendable clip-on devices for the lightbar, particularly rear clip-ons, demonstrated appreciable drag reductions of up to 2.5%. A final optimised lightbar design produced a minimal 2.8% drag increase when fitted onto an unmarked vehicle, representing a threefold improvement compared with the current generation of lightbars. This study advances the field of lightbar aerodynamics by precisely quantifying drag effects by using highly detailed geometry and examines the significance of optimal positioning, angle adjustment, and appendable clip-on devices in greater depth than any existing published work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drag Reduction in Turbulent Flows, 2nd Edition)
15 pages, 10284 KiB  
Article
Identifying the Quantitative Trait Locus and Candidate Genes of Traits Related to Milling Quality in Rice via a Genome-Wide Association Study
by Changmin Hu, Xinru Li, Mengyuan Zhang, Chunyu Jing, Mei Hai, Jiaming Shen, Qing Xu, Xiaojing Dang, Yingyao Shi, Erbao Liu and Jianhua Jiang
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101324 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Milling quality directly affects production efficiency in rice, which is closely related to the brown rice recovery (BRR), the milled rice recovery (MRR) and the head milled rice recovery (HMRR). The present study investigated these three traits in 173 germplasms in two environments, [...] Read more.
Milling quality directly affects production efficiency in rice, which is closely related to the brown rice recovery (BRR), the milled rice recovery (MRR) and the head milled rice recovery (HMRR). The present study investigated these three traits in 173 germplasms in two environments, finding abundant phenotypic variation. Three QTLs for BRR, two for MRR, and three for HMRR were identified in a genome-wide association study, five of these were identified in previously reported QTLs and three were newly identified. By combining the linkage disequilibrium (LD) analyses, the candidate gene LOC_Os05g08350 was identified. It had two haplotypes with significant differences and Hap 2 increased the BRR by 4.40%. The results of the qRT-PCR showed that the expression of LOC_Os05g08350 in small-BRR accessions was significantly higher than that in large-BRR accessions at Stages 4–5 of young panicle development, reaching the maximum value at Stage 5. The increase in thickness of the spikelet hulls of the accession carrying LOC_Os05g08350TT occurred due to an increase in the cell width and the cell numbers in cross-sections of spikelet hulls. These results help to further clarify the molecular genetic mechanism of milling-quality-related traits and provide genetic germplasm materials for high-quality breeding in rice. Full article
28 pages, 4733 KiB  
Review
Microplastics in Water: A Review of Characterization and Removal Methods
by Yun Li, Ping Chen, Yalan Tang, Yanjing Yang, Chengyun Zhou, Jiaqi Bu and Shian Zhong
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4033; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104033 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), as an emerging persistent pollutant, exist and accumulate in the environment, which has garnered them considerable global attention. While the origin, dispersion, distribution, and impact of MPs have been extensively documented, the characterization and removal strategies for MPs present ongoing challenges. [...] Read more.
Microplastics (MPs), as an emerging persistent pollutant, exist and accumulate in the environment, which has garnered them considerable global attention. While the origin, dispersion, distribution, and impact of MPs have been extensively documented, the characterization and removal strategies for MPs present ongoing challenges. In this literature review, we introduce in detail the advantages and disadvantages of seven characterization methods, from macroscopic to microscopic, from visual observation to microscopic characterization, and discuss their scope of application. In addition, 12 treatment schemes were summarized from the three treatment directions of physics, chemistry, and biology, including filtration, adsorption, extraction, magnetic separation, oil film separation, Fenton oxidation, electrochemical oxidation, persulfate advanced oxidation, photocatalytic oxidation, coagulation, electrocoagulation, foam flotation, anaerobic–anoxic–aerobic activated sludge, enzymatic degradation, bacterial degradation, and fungal degradation. Additionally, we present a critical assessment of the advantages and drawbacks associated with these removal strategies. Building upon the findings of our research team, we propose a novel approach to degrade MPs, which combines three-dimensional electrocatalytic oxidation technology with persulfate advanced oxidation technology. This advanced oxidation technology achieves 100% degradation of antibiotics in water, can degrade large molecules into environmentally harmless small molecules, and should also be a very good strategy for the degradation of MPs. Compared with two-dimensional electrocatalytic technology, the degradation efficiency is higher and the degradation cost is lower This review intends to propel further advancements for addressing the issue of MP pollution. Full article
11 pages, 2791 KiB  
Article
The Validity and Reliability of a Real-Time Biofeedback System for Lumbopelvic Control Training in Baseball Players
by Shiu-Min Wang, Po-Hsien Jiang, Kuei-Yuan Chan and Wei-Li Hsu
Sensors 2024, 24(10), 3060; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24103060 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Background: This study validates real-time biofeedback for lumbopelvic control training in baseball. The lumbopelvic region is crucial for generating kinetic energy in pitching. Real-time biofeedback enhances training effectiveness and reduces injury risk. The validity and reliability of this system were examined. Purpose: This [...] Read more.
Background: This study validates real-time biofeedback for lumbopelvic control training in baseball. The lumbopelvic region is crucial for generating kinetic energy in pitching. Real-time biofeedback enhances training effectiveness and reduces injury risk. The validity and reliability of this system were examined. Purpose: This study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the real-time biofeedback system for lumbopelvic control training. Methods: Twelve baseball players participated in this study, with data collected in two sessions separated by a week. All participants needed to do the lateral slide exercise and single-leg squat exercise in each session. Pelvic angles detected by the real-time biofeedback system were compared to the three-dimensional motion capture system (VICON) during training sessions. Additionally, pelvic angles measured by the biofeedback system were compared between the two training sessions. Results: The real-time biofeedback system exhibited moderate to strong correlations with VICON in both exercises: lateral slide exercise (r = 0.66–0.88, p < 0.05) and single-leg squat exercise (r = 0.70–0.85, p < 0.05). Good to excellent reliability was observed between the first and second sessions for both exercises: lateral slide exercise (ICC = 0.76–0.97) and single-leg squat exercise (ICC = 0.79–0.90). Conclusions: The real-time biofeedback system for lumbopelvic control training, accurately providing the correct pelvic angle during training, could enhance training effectiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Wearable Sensor-Based Gait and Movement Analysis)
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30 pages, 8613 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Macroscopic Mechanical Behavior of Magnetorheological Elastomers under Shear Deformation Using Microscale Representative Volume Element Approach
by Ilda Abdollahi and Ramin Sedaghati
Polymers 2024, 16(10), 1374; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16101374 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are a class of smart materials with rubber-like qualities, demonstrating revertible magnetic field-dependent viscoelastic properties, which makes them an ideal candidate for development of the next generation of adaptive vibration absorbers. This research study aims at the development of a [...] Read more.
Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are a class of smart materials with rubber-like qualities, demonstrating revertible magnetic field-dependent viscoelastic properties, which makes them an ideal candidate for development of the next generation of adaptive vibration absorbers. This research study aims at the development of a finite element model using microscale representative volume element (RVE) approach to predict the field-dependent shear behavior of MREs. MREs with different elastomeric matrices, including silicone rubber Ecoflex 30 and Ecoflex 50, and carbonyl iron particles (CIPs) have been considered as magnetic particles. The stress–strain characteristic of the pure silicon rubbers was evaluated experimentally to formulate the nonlinear Ogden strain energy function to describe hyper-elastic behavior of the rubbery matrix. The obtained mechanical and magnetic properties of the matrix and inclusions were integrated into COMSOL Multiphysics to develop the RVE for the MREs, in 2D and 3D configurations, with CIP volume fraction varying from 5% to 40%. Periodic boundary condition (PBC) was imposed on the RVE boundaries, while undergoing shear deformation subjected to magnetic flux densities of 0–0.4 T. Comparing the results from 2D and 3D modeling of isotropic MRE-RVE with the experimental results from the literature suggests that the 3D MRE-RVE can be effectively used to accurately predict the influence of varying factors including matrix type, volume fraction of magnetic particles, and applied magnetic field on the mechanical behavior of MREs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Functional Rubber and Elastomer Composites II)
26 pages, 2197 KiB  
Systematic Review
Immunogenicity of Recombinant Zoster Vaccine: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression
by Lorenzo Losa, Ippazio Cosimo Antonazzo, Giuseppe Di Martino, Giampiero Mazzaglia, Silvio Tafuri, Lorenzo Giovanni Mantovani and Pietro Ferrara
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050527 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The adjuvanted recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV), consisting of varicella-zoster virus glycoprotein E (gE) and the AS01B adjuvant system, effectively prevents herpes zoster (HZ). In the absence of a well-defined correlate of protection, it is important to monitor the RZV immune response, [...] Read more.
Background: The adjuvanted recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV), consisting of varicella-zoster virus glycoprotein E (gE) and the AS01B adjuvant system, effectively prevents herpes zoster (HZ). In the absence of a well-defined correlate of protection, it is important to monitor the RZV immune response, as a proxy of clinical effectiveness. Methods: This systematic review examined post-vaccination parameters: humoral and cell-mediated immunity, avidity index, geometric mean concentration of antibody (GMC), and immunity persistence. The meta-analysis used a random-effects model, and subgroup and meta-regression analyses were conducted. Results: Among 37 included articles, after one month from RZV-dose 2, the pooled response rate for anti-gE humoral immunity was 95.2% (95%CI 91.9–97.2), dropping to 77.6% (95%CI 64.7–86.8) during immunosuppression. The anti-gE cell-mediated immunity-specific response reached 84.6% (95%CI 75.2–90.9). Varying factors, such as age, sex, coadministration with other vaccines, prior HZ, or live-attenuated zoster vaccine, did not significantly affect response rates. RZV induced a substantial increase in gE avidity. Immunity persistence was confirmed, with more rapid waning in the very elderly. Conclusions: This systematic review indicates that RZV elicits robust immunogenicity and overcomes immunocompromising conditions. The findings underscore the need for further research, particularly on long-term immunity, and have the potential to support HZ vaccination policies and programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Varicella and Zoster Vaccination)
6 pages, 663 KiB  
Short Note
8(S)-[(1R,2S,5R)-2-Isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexyloxy]-3,4-dihydro-2H-[1,4]dithiepino[2,3-c]furan-6(8H)-one
by Alsu M. Khabibrakhmanova, Enze S. Rabbanieva, Darya P. Gerasimova, Liliya Z. Latypova and Almira R. Kurbangalieva
Molbank 2024, 2024(2), M1820; https://doi.org/10.3390/M1820 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The interaction of propane-1,3-dithiol with the chiral bis-thioether, which combines two 2(5H)-furanone moieties, bridged through their carbon atoms C(4) by the propane-1,3-dithiol fragment, in DMF in the presence of potassium hydroxide or cesium carbonate resulted in the formation of an [...] Read more.
The interaction of propane-1,3-dithiol with the chiral bis-thioether, which combines two 2(5H)-furanone moieties, bridged through their carbon atoms C(4) by the propane-1,3-dithiol fragment, in DMF in the presence of potassium hydroxide or cesium carbonate resulted in the formation of an optically active fused bicyclic sulfur heterocycle, possessing 1,4-dithiepine and unsaturated γ-lactone moieties. The studied reaction follows an unexpected pathway in a basic medium with the thiolate–thiolate exchange. The structure of the novel heterocycle of the 1,4-dithiepinofuranone series is characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Heterocycle Reactions)
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12 pages, 1855 KiB  
Article
IQGAP1 Regulates Actin Polymerization and Contributes to Bleomycin-Induced Lung Fibrosis
by Tanjina Akter, Ilia Atanelishvili, Richard M. Silver and Galina S. Bogatkevich
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5244; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105244 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
We previously found IQ motif containing GTPase activating protein (IQGAP1) to be consistently elevated in lung fibroblasts (LF) isolated from patients with scleroderma (systemic sclerosis, SSc)-associated interstitial lung disease (ILD) and reported that IQGAP1 contributed to SSc by regulating expression and organization of [...] Read more.
We previously found IQ motif containing GTPase activating protein (IQGAP1) to be consistently elevated in lung fibroblasts (LF) isolated from patients with scleroderma (systemic sclerosis, SSc)-associated interstitial lung disease (ILD) and reported that IQGAP1 contributed to SSc by regulating expression and organization of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) in LF. The aim of this study was to compare the development of ILD in the presence and absence of IQGAP1. Pulmonary fibrosis was induced in IQGAP1 knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice by a single-intratracheal instillation of bleomycin. Two and three weeks later, mice were euthanized and investigated. We observed that the IQGAP1 KO mouse was characterized by a reduced rate of actin polymerization with reduced accumulation of actin in the lung compared to the WT mouse. After exposure to bleomycin, the IQGAP1 KO mouse demonstrated decreased contractile activity of LF, reduced expression of SMA, TGFβ, and collagen, and lowered overall fibrosis scores compared to the WT mouse. The numbers of inflammatory cells and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in lung tissue were not significantly different between IQGAP1 KO and WT mice. We conclude that IQGAP1 plays an important role in the development of lung fibrosis induced by bleomycin, and the absence of IQGAP1 reduces the contractile activity of lung fibroblast and bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Thus, IQGAP1 may be a potential target for novel anti-fibrotic therapies for lung fibrosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)

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