The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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13 pages, 1483 KiB  
Article
The Predictors of Early Treatment Effectiveness of Intravitreal Bevacizumab Application in Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema
by Karla Katić, Josip Katić, Marko Kumrić, Joško Božić, Leida Tandara, Daniela Šupe Domić and Kajo Bućan
Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14100992 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to establish whether multiple blood parameters might predict an early treatment response to intravitreal bevacizumab injections in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). Seventy-eight patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and DME were included. The treatment response [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to establish whether multiple blood parameters might predict an early treatment response to intravitreal bevacizumab injections in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). Seventy-eight patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and DME were included. The treatment response was evaluated with central macular thickness decrease and best corrected visual acuity increase one month after the last bevacizumab injection. Parameters of interest were the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), vitamin D, and apolipoprotein B to A-I ratio (ApoB/ApoA-I). The NLR (2.03 ± 0.70 vs. 2.80 ± 1.08; p < 0.001), MLR (0.23 ± 0.06 vs. 0.28 ± 0.10; p = 0.011), PLR (107.4 ± 37.3 vs. 135.8 ± 58.0; p = 0.013), and SII (445.3 ± 166.3 vs. 675.3 ± 334.0; p < 0.001) were significantly different between responder and non-responder groups. Receiver operator characteristics analysis showed the NLR (AUC 0.778; 95% CI 0.669–0.864), PLR (AUC 0.628; 95% CI 0.511–0.735), MLR (AUC 0.653; 95% CI 0.536–0.757), and SII (AUC 0.709; 95% CI 0.595–0.806) could be predictors of response to bevacizumab in patients with DME and NPDR. Patients with severe NPDR had a significantly higher ApoB/ApoA-I ratio (0.70 (0.57–0.87) vs. 0.61 (0.49–0.72), p = 0.049) and lower vitamin D (52.45 (43.10–70.60) ng/mL vs. 40.05 (25.95–55.30) ng/mL, p = 0.025). Alterations in the NLR, PLR, MLR, and SII seem to provide prognostic information regarding the response to bevacizumab in patients with DME, whilst vitamin D deficiency and the ApoB/ApoA-I ratio could contribute to better staging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Retinal Diseases)
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14 pages, 519 KiB  
Article
Building Resilience into Classrooms: A Participatory Action Approach
by Beth Doll and Kyle Bizal
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050511 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The ClassMaps strategy builds resilience into classrooms by translating the compelling results of developmental risk and resilience research into simple action plans that embed positive protective supports into classroom routines and practices. The refined routines reinforce students’ developing self-agency and foster their nurturing [...] Read more.
The ClassMaps strategy builds resilience into classrooms by translating the compelling results of developmental risk and resilience research into simple action plans that embed positive protective supports into classroom routines and practices. The refined routines reinforce students’ developing self-agency and foster their nurturing relationships with adults and peers. The strategy is carried out in four stages—administering the ClassMaps Survey to describe students’ experiences of classroom strengths and weaknesses, conducting a classroom meeting with students to scrutinize the results and brainstorm plans for change, implementing simple modifications to classroom routines and practices based on that plan, and evaluating the impact of the modifications a few weeks later. The ClassMaps Survey’s central role in the strategy is justified by the reliability of its subscales and their relation to the key protective supports identified in resilience research. The ClassMaps strategy is a useful example of ‘giving psychology away’. Full article
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13 pages, 1016 KiB  
Review
Pediatric Diffuse Midline Glioma H3K27-Altered: From Developmental Origins to Therapeutic Challenges
by Manuela Mandorino, Ahana Maitra, Domenico Armenise, Olga Maria Baldelli, Morena Miciaccia, Savina Ferorelli, Maria Grazia Perrone and Antonio Scilimati
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1814; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101814 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), now referred to as diffuse midline glioma (DMG), is a highly aggressive pediatric cancer primarily affecting children aged 4 to 9 years old. Despite the research and clinical trials conducted to identify a possible treatment for DIPG, no [...] Read more.
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), now referred to as diffuse midline glioma (DMG), is a highly aggressive pediatric cancer primarily affecting children aged 4 to 9 years old. Despite the research and clinical trials conducted to identify a possible treatment for DIPG, no effective drug is currently available. These tumors often affect deep midline brain structures in young children, suggesting a connection to early brain development’s epigenetic regulation targets, possibly affecting neural progenitor functions and differentiation. The H3K27M mutation is a known DIPG trigger, but the exact mechanisms beyond epigenetic regulation remain unclear. After thoroughly examining the available literature, we found that over 85% of DIPG tumors contain a somatic missense mutation, K27M, in genes encoding histone H3.3 and H3.1, leading to abnormal gene expression that drives tumor growth and spread. This mutation impacts crucial brain development processes, including the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway, and may explain differences between H3K27M and non-K27M pediatric gliomas. Effects on stem cells show increased proliferation and disrupted differentiation. The genomic organization of H3 gene family members in the developing brain has revealed variations in their expression patterns. All these observations suggest a need for global efforts to understand developmental origins and potential treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic From Basic Research to a Clinical Perspective in Oncology)
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26 pages, 2759 KiB  
Article
Research on B2C Cross-Border Electronic Commerce Return Logistics Model Selection Based on Estimated Return Rate
by Yi Li and Zhiyang Li
J. Theor. Appl. Electron. Commer. Res. 2024, 19(2), 1034-1059; https://doi.org/10.3390/jtaer19020054 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
This paper investigates the estimated return rate and optimal order quantity under three cross-border e-commerce return logistics modes: direct mail (from predecessor), in situ destruction (new), and insurance (new). The estimated return rate under each model was analyzed and it was found that [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the estimated return rate and optimal order quantity under three cross-border e-commerce return logistics modes: direct mail (from predecessor), in situ destruction (new), and insurance (new). The estimated return rate under each model was analyzed and it was found that different modes have different thresholds in delivery lead time (the time retailers need to deliver goods to customers), and within which the estimated return rate increases as the delivery lead time increases. And a size comparison of the estimated return rates for the three models was conducted. A profit model was constructed based on the estimated return rate model, the optimal order quantity was calculated, and the effects of different factors (tax, postage, and delivery lead time etc.) on it were analyzed. For the insurance model, the effect of bearing the insurance ratio between retailers and consumers on the optimal order quantity was examined. The goal of this paper was to construct a model of the estimated return rate for the two new modes and to compare the estimated return rate of the three modes, which provides a reference for retailers to choose among the diversified return logistics modes and then make the best ordering strategy according to the influence of different factors on the optimal order quantity. Full article
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15 pages, 4696 KiB  
Article
Progressive Failure Mechanism of Shield Tunnel Face in Complex Urban Geological Environment
by Qingfei Huang and Kaihang Han
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1356; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051356 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The construction of multiple tunnels across inland rivers has had a significant influence on the improvement of the transportation infrastructure. The technology for constructing tunnels is progressing towards the development of larger cross-sections, longer distances, and the ability to withstand high hydraulic pressure [...] Read more.
The construction of multiple tunnels across inland rivers has had a significant influence on the improvement of the transportation infrastructure. The technology for constructing tunnels is progressing towards the development of larger cross-sections, longer distances, and the ability to withstand high hydraulic pressure in complex hydrogeological conditions, including high-permeability strata. In order to ensure the face stability of shield tunnels under high hydraulic pressure that crosses a fault fracture zone, it is necessary to study the progressive failure mechanism of shield tunnel faces induced by high hydraulic pressure seepage. This paper employs finite element numerical simulation software to methodically examine the variation in the characteristics of the water seepage field, limiting support force, and face stability failure mode of shield tunnels passing through fault fracture zones with high hydraulic pressure under varying fault fracture width zones. The results show that the formation hydraulic gradient will progressively widen when the tunnel face is located within the undisturbed rock mass and is advanced towards the area of fault fracture. This will raise the likelihood of instability in the shield tunnel and progressively raise the limiting support force on the tunnel face. Moreover, as the tunnel face nears the region of fault fracture within the undisturbed rock mass, the damage range increases gradually. In addition, due to the increase in seepage force, the angle between the failure area and the horizontal plane becomes more and more gentle. On the contrary, as the tunnel’s face moves closer to the undisturbed rock mass from the region of the fault fracture, the damage range gradually decreases, and the dip angle between the damage area and the horizontal plane becomes steeper and steeper due to the decreasing seepage force in the process. The study findings presented in this work are highly significant, both theoretically and practically, for the design and management of safety. Full article
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4 pages, 178 KiB  
Editorial
Editorial to the Special Issue: “Recent Advances in Gamma Ray Astrophysics and Future Perspectives”
by Patrizia Romano
Universe 2024, 10(5), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe10050213 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
This Special Issue is a collection of reviews highlighting the recent progress in the very vast and closely related fields of γ-ray astrophysics and astro-particle physics in recent years, looking toward a very promising future [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Gamma Ray Astrophysics and Future Perspectives)
10 pages, 587 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Extraction by Pressing at Different Temperatures on Sesame Oil Quality Characteristics
by Zahra Piravi-Vanak, Abdolah Dadazadeh, Sodeif Azadmard-Damirchi, Mohammadali Torbati and Fleming Martinez
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1472; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101472 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Sesame oil has been widely used in the daily diet due to its high nutritional value. Sesame oil is extracted at industrial scales and also in small scale by cold pressing at different temperatures. In this research, sesame oil was extracted by pressing [...] Read more.
Sesame oil has been widely used in the daily diet due to its high nutritional value. Sesame oil is extracted at industrial scales and also in small scale by cold pressing at different temperatures. In this research, sesame oil was extracted by pressing at four temperatures, namely, 30 (control sample), 60, 90 and 120 °C, to evaluate its effects on the quality of extracted oils. Oil extraction yields were increased from 38 to 51% by increasing the pressing temperature. The highest amount of peroxide and acid values were related to the oil extracted at 120 °C. Tocopherols and total phenol content were reduced by the increasing the pressing temperature, and the highest amounts of these bioactive components were related to the control sample. The results of the fatty acids profile showed that the composition of oils extracted at different temperatures did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). The results of the present study give a clear picture about the effects of different pressing temperatures on the sesame oil quality and extraction yield, and can be useful in the extraction unit optimization. Full article
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16 pages, 3129 KiB  
Article
Doenjang Ameliorates Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia and Hepatic Oxidative Damage by Improving Lipid Metabolism, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in ICR Mice
by Olivet Chiamaka Edward, Do-Youn Jeong, Hee-Jong Yang, Anna Han and Youn-Soo Cha
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1471; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101471 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Hyperlipidemia, characterized by elevated cholesterol, lipids, and triglycerides in the bloodstream, is linked to hepatic oxidative damage. Doenjang, a traditional Korean condiment made from fermented soybeans, is known for its health benefits, yet its anti-hyperlipidemic effects remain understudied. Our study aimed to [...] Read more.
Hyperlipidemia, characterized by elevated cholesterol, lipids, and triglycerides in the bloodstream, is linked to hepatic oxidative damage. Doenjang, a traditional Korean condiment made from fermented soybeans, is known for its health benefits, yet its anti-hyperlipidemic effects remain understudied. Our study aimed to assess the hypolipidemic and hepatic protective effects of Doenjang on male ICR mice fed a high-fat cholesterol diet for 8 weeks. Mice were divided into three groups: the normal diet (ND), the high-fat cholesterol diet (HD), and the Doenjang-supplemented HD diet (DS) group. Doenjang supplementation significantly regulated total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol levels compared to the HD group. It also downregulated lipogenic genes, including PPARγ, FAS, and ACC, and positively influenced the cholesterol metabolism-related genes HMGCR and LXR. Moreover, Doenjang intake increased serum glutathione levels, activated oxidative stress defense genes (NRF2, SOD, GPx1, and CAT), positively modulated inflammation genes (NF-kB and IL6) in hepatic tissue, and reduced malondialdehyde levels. Our findings highlight the effectiveness of traditional Doenjang in preventing diet-induced hyperlipidemia and protecting against hepatic oxidative damage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Functional Foods: New Trends and Perspectives)
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13 pages, 6280 KiB  
Article
Three-Dimensional Quality Assessment of Urban Underground Space Resource Based on Multiple Geological Environmental Factors
by Yang Yang, Rui Wang, Dixu Liu, Lixin Wu and Jingwen Su
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4046; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104046 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
With the rapid advancement of urbanization, the development and utilization of urban underground space resource (UUSR) has become one of the dominant features. However, in certain areas, the development of UUSR may cause disasters and accidents, such as ground collapse, settlements, and tunnel [...] Read more.
With the rapid advancement of urbanization, the development and utilization of urban underground space resource (UUSR) has become one of the dominant features. However, in certain areas, the development of UUSR may cause disasters and accidents, such as ground collapse, settlements, and tunnel water gushing. Geological environmental factors (GEFs) are recognized as the fundamental constraining factor of UUSR development. In this paper, quality based on GEFs is defined to assess the development difficulty degree of UUSR. A 3D assessment framework is proposed based on 3D geological modelling and the interval continuous mathematical model (ICMM). The subjective and objective joint weight method of analytic hierarchy process and entropy weight method (AHP–EWM) is utilized to determine the weight of each indicator. The quality index (QI) of each spatial node of the 3D geological model is calculated by the ICMM mathematical model. A case study conducted in the Jiangbei New District of Nanjing, China, serves as a demonstration of the UUSR assessment. The results clearly illustrate the 3D distribution characteristics of the quality in the study area, offering valuable insights for future 3D urban underground space planning. Full article
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10 pages, 2133 KiB  
Communication
Sphingosine-1-phosphate Decreases Erythrocyte Dysfunction Induced by β-Amyloid
by Francesco Misiti, Pierluigi Diotaiuti, Giovanni Enrico Lombardo and Ester Tellone
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5184; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105184 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Amyloid beta peptides (Aβ) have been identified as the main pathogenic agents in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Soluble Aβ oligomers, rather than monomer or insoluble amyloid fibrils, show red blood cell (RBC) membrane-binding capacity and trigger several morphological and functional alterations in RBCs that [...] Read more.
Amyloid beta peptides (Aβ) have been identified as the main pathogenic agents in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Soluble Aβ oligomers, rather than monomer or insoluble amyloid fibrils, show red blood cell (RBC) membrane-binding capacity and trigger several morphological and functional alterations in RBCs that can result in impaired oxygen transport and delivery. Since bioactive lipids have been recently proposed as potent protective agents against Aβ toxicity, we investigated the role of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in signaling pathways involved in the mechanism underlying ATP release in Ab-treated RBCs. In RBCs following different treatments, the ATP, 2,3 DPG and cAMP levels and caspase 3 activity were determined by spectrophotometric and immunoassay. S1P rescued the inhibition of ATP release from RBCs triggered by Ab, through a mechanism involving caspase-3 and restoring 2,3 DPG and cAMP levels within the cell. These findings reveal the molecular basis of S1P protection against Aβ in RBCs and suggest new therapeutic avenues in AD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Roles of Erythrocytes in Human Health and Disease)
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18 pages, 3841 KiB  
Review
Advances in the Chemistry and Biology of Specialised Pro-Resolving Mediators (SPMs)
by Lucy Byrne and Patrick J. Guiry
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2233; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102233 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
This review article assembles key recent advances in the synthetic chemistry and biology of specialised pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). The major medicinal chemistry developments in the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of synthetic SPM analogues of lipoxins and resolvins have been discussed. These include [...] Read more.
This review article assembles key recent advances in the synthetic chemistry and biology of specialised pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). The major medicinal chemistry developments in the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of synthetic SPM analogues of lipoxins and resolvins have been discussed. These include variations in the top and bottom chains, as well as changes to the triene core, of lipoxins, all changes intended to enhance the metabolic stability whilst retaining or improving biological activity. Similar chemical modifications of resolvins are also discussed. The biological evaluation of these synthetic SPMs is also described in some detail. Original investigations into the biological activity of endogenous SPMs led to the pairing of these ligands with the FPR2/LX receptor, and these results have been challenged in more recent work, leading to conflicting results and views, which are again discussed. Full article
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12 pages, 1916 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Dry Ice for Short-Term Storage and Transportation of Frozen Boar Semen
by Mengqian He, Lingwei Sun, Jiehuan Xu, Caifeng Wu, Shushan Zhang, Jun Gao, Defu Zhang, Yeqing Gan, Yi Bian, Jinliang Wei, Weijian Zhang, Wengang Zhang, Xuejun Han and Jianjun Dai
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1422; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101422 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
To address the safety problems posed by the transportation of boar semen using LN, this study was conducted on the short-term storage of frozen boar semen in dry ice (−79 °C). Boar semen frozen in LN was transferred to dry ice, kept for [...] Read more.
To address the safety problems posed by the transportation of boar semen using LN, this study was conducted on the short-term storage of frozen boar semen in dry ice (−79 °C). Boar semen frozen in LN was transferred to dry ice, kept for 1 day, 3 days, 5 days, 7 days, or 8 days, and then moved back to LN. The quality of frozen semen stored in LN or dry ice was determined to evaluate the feasibility of short-distance transportation with dry ice. The results showed that 60 °C for 8 s was the best condition for thawing frozen semen stored in dry ice. No significant differences in spermatozoa motility, plasma membrane integrity, or acrosome integrity were observed in semen after short-term storage in dry ice compared to LN (p > 0.05). There were no significant changes in antioxidant properties between storage groups either (p > 0.05). In conclusion, dry ice could be used as a cold source for the short-term transportation of frozen boar semen for at least 7 days, without affecting sperm motility, morphological integrity, or antioxidant indices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
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19 pages, 5898 KiB  
Article
Research on Dual-Grating Spacing Calibration Method Based on Multiple Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise Combined with Hilbert Transform
by Yanzhen Zhu, Jiayuan Sun, Yuqing Guan, Liqin Liu, Chuangwei Guo, Yujie Zhang, Jun Wan and Lihua Lei
Photonics 2024, 11(5), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics11050443 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The paper proposes a method for the calibration of spacing in dual-grating based on Multiple Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (ICEEMDAN) combined with Hilbert Transform (HT), referred to as Multiple ICEEMDAN-HT. This method addresses the potential impact of nonlinear [...] Read more.
The paper proposes a method for the calibration of spacing in dual-grating based on Multiple Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (ICEEMDAN) combined with Hilbert Transform (HT), referred to as Multiple ICEEMDAN-HT. This method addresses the potential impact of nonlinear factors on phase extraction accuracy, consequently on ranging precision in the homodyne interference of the dual-grating. Building upon the ICEEMDAN algorithm, the signal undergoes iterative decomposition and reconstruction using the sample entropy criterion. The intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) obtained from multiple iterations are then reconstructed to obtain the complete signal. Through a simulation and comparison with other signal decomposition methods, the repeatability and completeness of signal reconstruction by Multiple ICEEMDAN are verified. Finally, an actual dual-grating ranging system is utilized to calibrate the spacing of the planar grating. Experimental results demonstrate that the calibration relative error of the Multiple ICEEMDAN-HT phase unwrapping method can be reduced to as low as 0.07%, effectively enhancing the signal robustness and spacing calibration precision. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ultraviolet Laser: Generation, Properties and Applications)
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11 pages, 1499 KiB  
Article
Temporal Bone Fractures and Related Complications in Pediatric and Adult Cranio-Facial Trauma: A Comparison of MDCT Findings in the Acute Emergency Setting
by Romain Kohler, Marcella Pucci, Basile Landis, Pascal Senn, Pierre-Alexandre Poletti, Paolo Scolozzi, Seema Toso, Minerva Becker and Alexandra Platon
Tomography 2024, 10(5), 727-737; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography10050056 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of and complications resulting from temporal bone fractures in adult and pediatric patients evaluated for cranio-facial trauma in an emergency setting. Methods: A retrospective blinded analysis of CT scans of a series [...] Read more.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of and complications resulting from temporal bone fractures in adult and pediatric patients evaluated for cranio-facial trauma in an emergency setting. Methods: A retrospective blinded analysis of CT scans of a series of 294 consecutive adult and pediatric patients with cranio-facial trauma investigated in the emergency setting was conducted. Findings were compared between the two populations. Preliminary reports made by on-call residents were compared with the retrospective analysis, which was performed in consensus by two experienced readers and served as reference standard. Results: CT revealed 126 fractures in 116/294 (39.5%) patients, although fractures were clinically suspected only in 70/294 (23.8%); p < 0.05. Fractures were longitudinal, transverse and mixed in 69.5%, 10.3% and 19.8% of cases, respectively. Most fractures were otic-sparing fractures (95.2%). Involvement of the external auditory canal, ossicular chain and the osseous structures surrounding the facial nerve was present in 72.2%, 8.7% and 6.3% of cases, respectively. Temporal bone fractures extended into the venous sinuses/jugular foramen and carotid canal in 18.3% and 17.5% of cases, respectively. Vascular injuries (carotid dissection and venous thrombosis) were more common in children than in adults (13.6% versus 5.3%); however, the observed difference did not reach statistical significance. 79.5% of patients with temporal bone fractures had both brain injuries and fractures of the facial bones and cranial vault. Brain injuries were more common in adults (90.4%) than in children (63.6%), p = 0.001. Although on-call residents reliably detected temporal bone fractures (sensitivity = 92.8%), they often missed trauma-associated ossicular dislocation (sensitivity = 27.3%). Conclusions: Temporal bone fractures and related complications are common in patients with cranio-facial trauma and need to be thoroughly looked for; the pattern of associated injuries is slightly different in children and in adults. Full article
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16 pages, 1061 KiB  
Article
Artificial Intelligence Capabilities for Demand Planning Process
by Claudia Aparecida de Mattos, Fernanda Caveiro Correia and Kumiko Oshio Kissimoto
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020053 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Technological advancements, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), are revolutionizing operations management, especially in the domain of supply chain management. This paper delves into the application of AI in demand planning processes within the supply chain context. Drawing upon a comprehensive review [...] Read more.
Background: Technological advancements, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), are revolutionizing operations management, especially in the domain of supply chain management. This paper delves into the application of AI in demand planning processes within the supply chain context. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of the existing literature, the main objective of this study is to analyze how AI is being applied and adopted in the demand planning process, identifying the resources needed to build the capacity of AI in the demand process, as well as the mechanisms and practices contributing to AI capability’s advancement and formation. Methodology: The approach was qualitative, and case studies of three different companies were conducted. Results: This study identified crucial resources necessary for fostering AI capabilities in demand planning. Our study extends the literature on AI capability in several ways. First, we identify the resources that are important in the formation of the capacity to implement AI in the context of demand planning. Conclusions: This study’s practical contributions underscore the multifaceted nature of AI implementation for demand planning, emphasizing the importance of resource allocation, human capital development, collaborative relationships, organizational alignment, and relational capital and AI. Full article
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22 pages, 3033 KiB  
Article
Inhibition of LPS-Induced Skin Inflammatory Response and Barrier Damage via MAPK/NF-κB Signaling Pathway by Houttuynia cordata Thunb Fermentation Broth
by Zixin Song, Jiaxuan Fang, Dongdong Wang, Yuncai Tian, Yuhua Xu, Ziwen Wang, Jiman Geng, Changtao Wang and Meng Li
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1470; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101470 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Houttuynia cordata Thunb is rich in active substances and has excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Scanning electron microscopy and gel permeation chromatography were used to analyze the molecular characteristics of the fermentation broth of Houttuynia cordata Thunb obtained through fermentation with Clavispora lusitaniae [...] Read more.
Houttuynia cordata Thunb is rich in active substances and has excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Scanning electron microscopy and gel permeation chromatography were used to analyze the molecular characteristics of the fermentation broth of Houttuynia cordata Thunb obtained through fermentation with Clavispora lusitaniae (HCT-f). The molecular weight of HCT-f was 2.64265 × 105 Da, and the polydispersity coefficient was 183.10, which were higher than that of unfermented broth of Houttuynia cordata Thunb (HCT). By investigating the active substance content and in vitro antioxidant activity of HCT-f and HCT, the results indicated that HCT-f had a higher active substance content and exhibited a superior scavenging effect on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals and hydroxyl radicals, with IC50 values of 11.85% and 9.01%, respectively. Our results showed that HCT-f could effectively alleviate the increase in the secretion of inflammatory factors and apoptotic factors caused by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, and had a certain effect on repairing skin barrier damage. HCT-f could exert an anti-inflammatory effect by down-regulating signaling in the MAPK/NF-κB pathway. The results of erythrocyte hemolysis and chicken embryo experiments showed that HCT-f had a high safety profile. Therefore, this study provides a theoretical basis for the application of HCT-f as an effective ingredient in food and cosmetics. Full article
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5 pages, 181 KiB  
Editorial
Applications of Machine Learning in National Territory Spatial Planning
by Bing Xue, Yaotian Xu, Jun Yang and Xiangming Xiao
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4045; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104045 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
National territory spatial planning guides national spatial development and the spatial blueprint of sustainable development [...] Full article
12 pages, 14951 KiB  
Article
Influence of Xanthan Gum-Based Soil Conditioners on the Geotechnical Properties of Soils
by Barbara Fortuna, Janko Logar, Alessandro Sorze, Francesco Valentini and Jasna Smolar
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4044; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104044 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The impact of climate change has become increasingly severe in forests, where droughts and strong winds on the one hand and extreme rainfall events on the other hand can damage forest ecosystems. To mitigate the effects of drought and enhance soil water retention [...] Read more.
The impact of climate change has become increasingly severe in forests, where droughts and strong winds on the one hand and extreme rainfall events on the other hand can damage forest ecosystems. To mitigate the effects of drought and enhance soil water retention capacity, three types of soil conditioners (SCs), labeled SC_R, SC_CG, and SC_ZZC, were developed as part of the European project ONEforest. All the conditioners are based on Xanthan gum and have different types and amounts of fillers with diverse cellulose fiber lengths. These can offer the potential to optimize the SC characteristics, e.g., water absorption, water retention, and mechanical stability. This paper focuses on the influence of fillers in the SCs on the geotechnical properties of forest soils from Ljubelj in the Alpine part of Slovenia (S1), Catalonia, northeastern Spain (S2), and Heldburg, Germany (S3). The results show an increase of 53% to 100% in the water absorption of treated soil. A less favorable impact of the SCs was found on the drained shear strength and the compressibility. The drained shear strength of untreated forest soils in a saturated state was S1 c′ = 4.4 kPa, φ′ = 33.5°; S2 c′ = 1.4 kPa, φ′ = 30.0°; and S3 c′ = 12 kPa, φ′ = 28.0°. The addition of SCs results in a reduction in the drained shear strength of saturated mixtures. The reduction depends on the dosage of added SC—whether it is a low (L) or a high (H) dosage. For instance, when the soil S1 was treated with a low dosage of the soil conditioner SC_R, it demonstrated a cohesion (c′) of 11 kPa and a friction angle (φ′) of 27.0°. However, increasing the dosage of the SC_R led to a decrease in both the cohesion and the friction angle for the same soil (c′ = 7.7 kPa, φ′ = 25.0°). Additionally, the type of soil conditioner also impacts the drained shear strength. Among the mixtures with a high dosage of the SC_R, SC_CG, or SC_ZZC, those containing the SC_CG with the longest fibers stand out, demonstrating the highest friction angle. Therefore, longer fibers can be a promising component of the SCs to reduce the negative influence of XG on the mechanical properties of treated soils. Full article
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67 pages, 5953 KiB  
Review
N-Heterocycles as Promising Antiviral Agents: A Comprehensive Overview
by Gulraiz Ahmad, Maria Sohail, Muhammad Bilal, Nasir Rasool, Muhammad Usman Qamar, Codrut Ciurea, Luigi Geo Marceanu and Catalin Misarca
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2232; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102232 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Viruses are a real threat to every organism at any stage of life leading to extensive infections and casualties. N-heterocycles can affect the viral life cycle at many points, including viral entrance into host cells, viral genome replication, and the production of [...] Read more.
Viruses are a real threat to every organism at any stage of life leading to extensive infections and casualties. N-heterocycles can affect the viral life cycle at many points, including viral entrance into host cells, viral genome replication, and the production of novel viral species. Certain N-heterocycles can also stimulate the host’s immune system, producing antiviral cytokines and chemokines that can stop the reproduction of viruses. This review focused on recent five- or six-membered synthetic N-heterocyclic molecules showing antiviral activity through SAR analyses. The review will assist in identifying robust scaffolds that might be utilized to create effective antiviral drugs with either no or few side effects. Full article
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18 pages, 967 KiB  
Article
Gravitating Scalarons with Inverted Higgs Potential
by Xiao Yan Chew and Kok-Geng Lim
Universe 2024, 10(5), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe10050212 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Previously, a class of regular and asymptotically flat gravitating scalar solitons (scalarons) has been constructed in the Einstein–Klein–Gordon (EKG) theory by adopting a phantom field with Higgs-like potential where the kinetic term has the wrong sign and the scalaron possesses the negative Arnowitt–Deser–Misner [...] Read more.
Previously, a class of regular and asymptotically flat gravitating scalar solitons (scalarons) has been constructed in the Einstein–Klein–Gordon (EKG) theory by adopting a phantom field with Higgs-like potential where the kinetic term has the wrong sign and the scalaron possesses the negative Arnowitt–Deser–Misner (ADM) mass as a consequence. In this paper, we demonstrate that the use of the phantom field can be avoided by inverting the Higgs-like potential in the EKG system when the kinetic term has a proper sign, such that the corresponding gravitating scalaron can possess the positive ADM mass. We systematically study the basic properties of the gravitating scalaron, such as the ADM mass, the energy conditions, the geodesics of test particles, etc. Moreover, we find that it can be smoothly connected to the counterpart hairy black hole solutions from our recent work in the small horizon limit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Universe: Feature Papers 2024 – Compact Objects)
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22 pages, 36847 KiB  
Article
Staged Temperature- and Humidity-Controlled Combined Infrared Hot-Air Drying (TH-IRHAD) of Sea Buckthorn Reduces Drying Time, Energy Consumption, and Browning
by Lichun Zhu, Xinyu Ji, Junzhe Gu, Xuetao Zhang, Mengqing Li, Qian Zhang, Xuhai Yang and Zhihua Geng
Agriculture 2024, 14(5), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14050743 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Sea buckthorn has garnered significant attention owing to its nutritional richness; however, it has a limited shelf life. In this study, the drying process of sea buckthorn was categorized into the first-, second-, and third-drying stages. Regression models were employed to examine the [...] Read more.
Sea buckthorn has garnered significant attention owing to its nutritional richness; however, it has a limited shelf life. In this study, the drying process of sea buckthorn was categorized into the first-, second-, and third-drying stages. Regression models were employed to examine the effects of the drying temperature, relative humidity of the medium, and prolonged high humidity retention on various parameters during the first- and second-drying stages. Comparative analysis revealed that the optimal drying conditions for the first-drying stage of sea buckthorn were a drying temperature of 80 °C, relative humidity of 28%, and high humidity retention time of 84 min. In the second-drying phase, the optimal conditions were a drying temperature of 78 °C, a relative humidity of 17%, and a high humidity retention time of 84 min. One-way optimization revealed that the optimal drying temperature for the third-drying stage was 70 °C. The implementation of temperature- and humidity-controlled infrared hot-air drying (TH-IRHAD) techniques considerably improved the outcomes. Specifically, the drying time, energy consumption, and degree of browning decreased by 34.43%, 36.29%, and 21.43%, respectively, whereas the brightness, rehydration ratio, total flavonoid content, and total phenol content increased by 8.94%, 16.99%, 20.57%, and 28.32%, respectively. Staged TH-IRHAD substantially reduced the drying duration, increased the efficiency, and enhanced the drying quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Technology)
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14 pages, 2895 KiB  
Article
Curating Community behind Barbed Wire: Canadian Prisoner of War Art from the Second World War
by Sarafina Pagnotta
Genealogy 2024, 8(2), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8020054 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Though often under-represented in the official and national narratives and in Canadian military historiography more broadly, the intimate and personal lived experiences of Canadian prisoners of war (POW) during the Second World War can be found in archives, photography collections, and collections of [...] Read more.
Though often under-represented in the official and national narratives and in Canadian military historiography more broadly, the intimate and personal lived experiences of Canadian prisoners of war (POW) during the Second World War can be found in archives, photography collections, and collections of war art. In an attempt to see past the mythologised versions of POWs that appear in Hollywood films, best-selling monographs, and other forms of popular culture, it is through bits of ephemera—including wartime log books and the drawings carefully kept and sent home to loved ones along with handwritten letters—that the stories of non-combatant men and women who spent their war as POWs, can be told. Together, Canadian POWs created and curated community and fostered unconventional family ties, sometimes called “emotional communities”, through the collection and accumulation of drawings, illustrations, paintings, and other examples of war art on the pages of their wartime log books while living behind barbed wire. This article uncovers some of these stories, buried in the thousands of boxes in the George Metcalf Archival Collection—the textual archives—at the Canadian War Museum (CWM) in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Full article
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16 pages, 3953 KiB  
Article
“This Is How/You’ll End”: Holocaust Poems as War Ephemera
by Yael S. Hacohen
Genealogy 2024, 8(2), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8020053 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
During the Holocaust, poets went to extraordinary lengths to write their poems and transmit them. Poems that were written during those years were often buried in the ground, stitched into clothing, smuggled out of prisons, or graffitied onto walls. These object documents carried [...] Read more.
During the Holocaust, poets went to extraordinary lengths to write their poems and transmit them. Poems that were written during those years were often buried in the ground, stitched into clothing, smuggled out of prisons, or graffitied onto walls. These object documents carried more than facts about these events; they carried the feeling of living through these events. This research explores the last poems of four Holocaust poets, Władysław Szlengel, Selma Meerbaum-Eisinger, Hannah Szenes, and Abramek Koplowicz, investigating not only the poems but their object-ness and their stories of transference. These poems, like urgent postcards, deliver messages to a family, to a community, to the world. They ask―what does it mean to write a poem as a last will and testament? Full article
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