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17 pages, 7418 KiB  
Article
The Mechanism Study of Fracture Porosity in High-Water-Cut Reservoirs
by Ning Zhang, Daiyin Yin, Guangsheng Cao and Tong Li
Energies 2024, 17(8), 1886; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17081886 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Many onshore oil fields currently adopt water flooding as a means to supplement reservoir energy. However, due to reservoir heterogeneity, significant differences in permeability exist not only between different reservoirs but also within the same reservoir across different planar orientations. After prolonged fluid [...] Read more.
Many onshore oil fields currently adopt water flooding as a means to supplement reservoir energy. However, due to reservoir heterogeneity, significant differences in permeability exist not only between different reservoirs but also within the same reservoir across different planar orientations. After prolonged fluid flushing in the near-wellbore zone of injection wells, the resulting increased flow resistance between layers exacerbates inefficient and ineffective circulation. A considerable amount of remaining oil is left unexploited in untouched areas, significantly impacting the overall recovery. To investigate the multiscale plugging mechanisms of fracture-dominated pore channels in high-water-cut oil reservoirs and achieve efficient management of fractured large channels, this study explores the formation of the fracture-flushing zone-low saturation oil zone. A physical experimental model with fractures and high-intensity flushing is established to analyze changes in pore structure, mineral composition, residual oil distribution, and other characteristics at different positions near the fractures. The research aims to clarify the mechanism behind the formation of large channels with fracture structures. The results indicate that under high-intensity water flushing, cementing materials are washed away by the flowing water, clay particles are carried to the surface with the injected fluid, and permeability significantly increases, forming high-permeability zones with fracture structures. In the rock interior away from the fracture end, channels, corners, and clustered oil content noticeably decrease, while the content of film-like oil substantially increases, and clay minerals are not significantly washed away. Under strong flushing conditions, the number of residual clay particles near the fracture end is mainly influenced by flow velocity and flushing time; thus, the greater the flushing intensity, the faster the water flow, and the longer the flushing time, the fewer residual clay particles near the fracture end. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Oil and Gas Wellbore Integrity)
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17 pages, 8329 KiB  
Article
Decellularized Bovine Skeletal Muscle Scaffolds: Structural Characterization and Preliminary Cytocompatibility Evaluation
by Luana Félix de Melo, Gustavo Henrique Doná Rodrigues Almeida, Felipe Rici Azarias, Ana Claudia Oliveira Carreira, Claudete Astolfi-Ferreira, Antônio José Piantino Ferreira, Eliana de Souza Bastos Mazuqueli Pereira, Karina Torres Pomini, Marcela Vialogo Marques de Castro, Laira Mireli Dias Silva, Durvanei Augusto Maria and Rose Eli Grassi Rici
Cells 2024, 13(8), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13080688 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Skeletal muscle degeneration is responsible for major mobility complications, and this muscle type has little regenerative capacity. Several biomaterials have been proposed to induce muscle regeneration and function restoration. Decellularized scaffolds present biological properties that allow efficient cell culture, providing a suitable microenvironment [...] Read more.
Skeletal muscle degeneration is responsible for major mobility complications, and this muscle type has little regenerative capacity. Several biomaterials have been proposed to induce muscle regeneration and function restoration. Decellularized scaffolds present biological properties that allow efficient cell culture, providing a suitable microenvironment for artificial construct development and being an alternative for in vitro muscle culture. For translational purposes, biomaterials derived from large animals are an interesting and unexplored source for muscle scaffold production. Therefore, this study aimed to produce and characterize bovine muscle scaffolds to be applied to muscle cell 3D cultures. Bovine muscle fragments were immersed in decellularizing solutions for 7 days. Decellularization efficiency, structure, composition, and three-dimensionality were evaluated. Bovine fetal myoblasts were cultured on the scaffolds for 10 days to attest cytocompatibility. Decellularization was confirmed by DAPI staining and DNA quantification. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis attested to the preservation of main ECM components. SEM analysis demonstrated that the 3D structure was maintained. In addition, after 10 days, fetal myoblasts were able to adhere and proliferate on the scaffolds, attesting to their cytocompatibility. These data, even preliminary, infer that generated bovine muscular scaffolds were well structured, with preserved composition and allowed cell culture. This study demonstrated that biomaterials derived from bovine muscle could be used in tissue engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Tissues and Organs)
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13 pages, 1059 KiB  
Review
Are Kidneys Affected by SARS-CoV-2 Infection? An Updated Review on COVID-19-Associated AKI
by Fabrizio Fabrizi, Luca Nardelli, Anna Regalia, Francesca Zanoni and Giuseppe Castellano
Pathogens 2024, 13(4), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13040325 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Human kidneys are an important target of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and many renal abnormalities have been found in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, including proteinuria, hematuria, and acute kidney injury. Acute kidney injury is now considered a common complication of COVID-19, and the epidemiology [...] Read more.
Background: Human kidneys are an important target of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and many renal abnormalities have been found in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, including proteinuria, hematuria, and acute kidney injury. Acute kidney injury is now considered a common complication of COVID-19, and the epidemiology of AKI in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients continues to be controversial. Aim and Methods: We have carried out a narrative review to evaluate the frequency and risk factors for AKI among patients hospitalized due to COVID-19, and the latest surveys on this topic have been included. The mechanisms by which AKI occurs in COVID-19 patients have also been reviewed. Results: Multiple risk factors for the development of AKI in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection have been identified; these have been classified in various groups (management and background factors, among others). SARS-CoV-2 targets the kidneys by indirect activity, but SARS-CoV-2 infects tubular epithelial cells and podocytes. We retrieved 24 reports (n = 502,593 unique patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection) and found an incidence of AKI of 31.8% (range, 0.5% to 56.9%). Only a minority (n = 2) of studies had a prospective design. We found that the AKI risk was greater in SARS-CoV-2 patients who underwent in-hospital deaths vs. those who survived; the summary estimate of the unadjusted RR of AKI was 2.63 (95% CI, 2.37; 2.93) (random-effects model). A stratified analysis showed that the incidence of AKI was greater in those reports where the frequency of COVID-19-positive patients having comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, and advanced age) was high. The unadjusted relative risk (aRR) of AKI was greater in SARS-CoV-2 patients who underwent ICU admission vs. those who did not; the pooled estimate of AKI risk was 2.64 (95% CI, 1.96; 3.56) according to the random-effects model. Conclusions: AKI is a common complication of hospitalized SARS-CoV-2-infected patients, and some comorbidities are important risk factors for it. The direct activity of the virus on the kidneys has been mentioned in the pathogenesis of AKI in SARS-CoV-2 patients. Further studies are ongoing in order to identify the mechanisms underlying the kidney injury in this population. The role of AKI on survival in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients is another area of active investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Viral Pathogens)
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14 pages, 1866 KiB  
Article
Archaeological Parks in the Service of Tourism—A Comparative Analysis of Hungarian and Western-European Archaeological Parks
by Ivett Vargáné Gálicz, Róbert Magda and Lóránt Dénes Dávid
Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3313; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083313 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study reviews the significance of archaeological parks in the tourism sector, with a specific focus on how digital presence and visitor feedback impact their cultural and touristic appeal. Utilizing statistical analyses such as regression and cluster analysis on data sourced from both [...] Read more.
This study reviews the significance of archaeological parks in the tourism sector, with a specific focus on how digital presence and visitor feedback impact their cultural and touristic appeal. Utilizing statistical analyses such as regression and cluster analysis on data sourced from both Hungarian and Western European parks from the Roman Period, the research scrutinizes TripAdvisor and Google ratings, alongside the volume of photographs and reviews. The findings highlight a modest correlation between digital visibility and overall visitor ratings, underscoring the complex relationship between online engagement and the quality of visitor experience. Notably, the cluster analysis identified two distinct groups, signifying diverse levels of visitor engagement and digital visibility across the parks. The conclusions drawn advocate for a comprehensive strategy to enhance visitor experiences, emphasizing the integration of digital engagement with the promotion of the parks cultural and historical values. By exploring the influence of digital presence on the appeal of archaeological parks, our study sheds light on the evolving interface between urban studies and digital heritage, highlighting how digital tools and online platforms are becoming increasingly integral in shaping the perceptions and experiences of urban cultural sites. Full article
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11 pages, 1891 KiB  
Article
Application of the Single Source—Detector Separation Algorithm in Wearable Neuroimaging Devices: A Step toward Miniaturized Biosensor for Hypoxia Detection
by Thien Nguyen, Soongho Park, Jinho Park, Asma Sodager, Tony George and Amir Gandjbakhche
Bioengineering 2024, 11(4), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11040385 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Most currently available wearable devices to noninvasively detect hypoxia use the spatially resolved spectroscopy (SRS) method to calculate cerebral tissue oxygen saturation (StO2). This study applies the single source—detector separation (SSDS) algorithm to calculate StO2. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) data [...] Read more.
Most currently available wearable devices to noninvasively detect hypoxia use the spatially resolved spectroscopy (SRS) method to calculate cerebral tissue oxygen saturation (StO2). This study applies the single source—detector separation (SSDS) algorithm to calculate StO2. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) data were collected from 26 healthy adult volunteers during a breath-holding task using a wearable NIRS device, which included two source—detector separations (SDSs). These data were used to derive oxyhemoglobin (HbO) change and StO2. In the group analysis, both HbO change and StO2 exhibited significant change during a breath-holding task. Specifically, they initially decreased to minimums at around 10 s and then steadily increased to maximums, which were significantly greater than baseline levels, at 25–30 s (p-HbO < 0.001 and p-StO2 < 0.05). However, at an individual level, the SRS method failed to detect changes in cerebral StO2 in response to a short breath-holding task. Furthermore, the SSDS algorithm is more robust than the SRS method in quantifying change in cerebral StO2 in response to a breath-holding task. In conclusion, these findings have demonstrated the potential use of the SSDS algorithm in developing a miniaturized wearable biosensor to monitor cerebral StO2 and detect cerebral hypoxia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neuroimaging Techniques for Wearable Devices in Bioengineering)
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14 pages, 3516 KiB  
Article
2,3-Dimethoxycinnamic Acid from a Marine Actinomycete, a Promising Quorum Sensing Inhibitor in Chromobacterium violaceum
by Yanqun Li, Wenping Ding, Jiajia Yin, Xingyu Li, Xinpeng Tian, Zhihui Xiao, Fazuo Wang and Hao Yin
Mar. Drugs 2024, 22(4), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/md22040177 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
An ethyl acetate extract of a marine actinomycete strain, Nocardiopsis mentallicus SCSIO 53858, isolated from a deep-sea sediment sample in the South China Sea, exhibited anti-quorum-sensing (QS) activity against Chromobacterium violaceum CV026. Guided by the anti-QS activity, a novel active compound was isolated [...] Read more.
An ethyl acetate extract of a marine actinomycete strain, Nocardiopsis mentallicus SCSIO 53858, isolated from a deep-sea sediment sample in the South China Sea, exhibited anti-quorum-sensing (QS) activity against Chromobacterium violaceum CV026. Guided by the anti-QS activity, a novel active compound was isolated and purified from the extract and was identified as 2,3-dimethoxycinnamic acid (2,3-DCA) through spectral data analysis. At a concentration of 150 μg/mL, 2,3-DCA exhibited robust inhibitory effects on three QS-regulated traits of C. violaceum CV026: violacein production, swarming motility, and biofilm formation, with inhibition rates of 73.9%, 65.9%, and 37.8%, respectively. The quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction results indicated that 2,3-DCA can disrupt the QS system in C. violaceum CV026 by effectively suppressing the expression of QS-related genes, including cviR, vioA, vioB, and vioE. Molecular docking analysis revealed that 2,3-DCA hinders the QS system by competitively binding to the same binding pocket on the CviR receptor as the natural signal molecule N-hexanoyl-L-homoserine lactone. Collectively, these findings suggest that 2,3-DCA exhibits promising potential as an inhibitor of QS systems, providing a potential solution to the emerging problem of bacterial resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Biotechnology Related to Drug Discovery or Production)
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18 pages, 917 KiB  
Article
Side Information Design in Zero-Error Coding for Computing
by Nicolas Charpenay, Maël Le Treust and Aline Roumy
Entropy 2024, 26(4), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26040338 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
We investigate the zero-error coding for computing problems with encoder side information. An encoder provides access to a source X and is furnished with side information g(Y). It communicates with a decoder that possesses side information Y and aims [...] Read more.
We investigate the zero-error coding for computing problems with encoder side information. An encoder provides access to a source X and is furnished with side information g(Y). It communicates with a decoder that possesses side information Y and aims to retrieve f(X,Y) with zero probability of error, where f and g are assumed to be deterministic functions. In previous work, we determined a condition that yields an analytic expression for the optimal rate R*(g); in particular, it covers the case where PX,Y is full support. In this article, we review this result and study the side information design problem, which consists of finding the best trade-offs between the quality of the encoder’s side information g(Y) and R*(g). We construct two greedy algorithms that give an achievable set of points in the side information design problem, based on partition refining and coarsening. One of them runs in polynomial time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extremal and Additive Combinatorial Aspects in Information Theory)
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3 pages, 168 KiB  
Editorial
CO2 Capture and Sequestration
by Diganta Bhusan Das
Clean Technol. 2024, 6(2), 494-496; https://doi.org/10.3390/cleantechnol6020025 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
CO2 capture and sequestration (CCS) aims to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) from CO2 sources (e [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue CO2 Capture and Sequestration 2020)
11 pages, 2056 KiB  
Article
Rectal Spacer Reduces Gastrointestinal Side Effects of Radiation Post Radical Prostatectomy
by Anne Hong, Damien Bolton, Trung Pham, David Angus, David Pan, Daryl Lim Joon, Alwin Tan, Kevin McMillan, Yee Chan, Paul Manohar, Joe Thomas, Huong Ho, Peter Orio, Emily Holt, Margaret Cokelek, Nathan Lawrentschuk, Farshad Foroudi and Michael Chao
Soc. Int. Urol. J. 2024, 5(2), 111-121; https://doi.org/10.3390/siuj5020020 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Objectives: Our objective was to assess the rate of complications and gastrointestinal adverse effects of rectal spacer insertion for salvage post prostatectomy radiation therapy. Methods: A retrospective observational study was performed. Between September 2018 and March 2022, 64 post-radical prostatectomy patients who were [...] Read more.
Objectives: Our objective was to assess the rate of complications and gastrointestinal adverse effects of rectal spacer insertion for salvage post prostatectomy radiation therapy. Methods: A retrospective observational study was performed. Between September 2018 and March 2022, 64 post-radical prostatectomy patients who were planned for salvage radiation therapy received a rectal spacer. The selected patients were those who had nerve-sparing prostatectomy with intrafascial or interfascial dissections (where Denonvillier’s fascia is retained). Radiation dose to the rectal wall and gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed. Symptoms were graded using the National Cancer Center Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.0 grading scheme. A total of 39 patients had pre-spacer planning computer tomography (CT) scans, and the rectal dose before and after the spacer insertion was calculated. Comparisons were made using the Student’s t-test, with a p-value < 0.05 representing statistical significance. Finally, clinicians were surveyed to rate the ease of the procedure using a 5-point Likert scale of 1 to 5 (1: very difficult, 2: difficult, 3: moderate, 4: easy, 5: very easy). Results: A total of 64 patients successfully underwent rectal spacer insertion. The mean age was 64.4 years (standard deviation: 5.7 years). After a median of 14 months’ (range 6 to 35) follow up, acute grade 1 and above gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities were seen in 28% of patients (grade 2 in 1.5%), and late grade 1 and above GI toxicities were seen in 12% of patients (grade 2 in 1.5%). Amongst the 39 patients with pre-spacer planning CT images, the volume of the rectum receiving 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100% of the prescribed radiation dose was reduced by 25.9%, 34.2%, 35.4%, 43.7%, and 61.7%, respectively. All dose reductions were statistically significant. The procedure was rated as “easy” or “very easy” to perform in 56% of cases. Conclusions: The insertion of a rectal spacer in selected patients undergoing PPRT is feasible and safe and significantly improves rectal wall radiation dosimetry in salvage post prostatectomy radiation therapy. It was accomplished in >95% of patients, increasing vesico-rectal separation from ‘immediate vicinity’ to 11 mm without any post-operative complications in experienced hands. In addition, it achieved significant reduction in rectal radiation doses, leading to low rates of acute and late grade 2 toxicity. Full article
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11 pages, 3141 KiB  
Article
Solution-Processable and Eco-Friendly Functionalization of Conductive Silver Nanoparticles Inks for Printable Electronics
by Sonia Ceron, David Barba and Miguel A. Dominguez
Electron. Mater. 2024, 5(2), 45-55; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronicmat5020004 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
The functionalization of conductive inks has been carried out through the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) onto the surface of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The ink prepared using this eco-friendly chemical reagent has been characterized structurally, chemically, and morphologically, showing [...] Read more.
The functionalization of conductive inks has been carried out through the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) onto the surface of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The ink prepared using this eco-friendly chemical reagent has been characterized structurally, chemically, and morphologically, showing the presence of stable AgNPs with suitable properties as well as the absence of residual contamination. The electrical conductivity of such a solution-processable ink is evidenced for patterns designed on flexible photographic paper substrates, using a refillable fountain pen that is implemented as a printing mechanism for the fabrication of simple printed circuit boards (PCBs). The functionality and durability of the tested systems are demonstrated under various mechanical constraints, aiming to basically reproduce the normal operation conditions of flexible electronic devices. The obtained results indicate that the implementation of these AgNP-based inks is relevant for direct applications in inkjet printing technology, thus paving the way for the use of greener chemicals in ink preparation. Full article
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20 pages, 2027 KiB  
Review
Mind the Psychedelic Hype: Characterizing the Risks and Benefits of Psychedelics for Depression
by Daniel Meling, Rebecca Ehrenkranz, Sandeep M. Nayak, Helena D. Aicher, Xaver Funk, Michiel van Elk, Marianna Graziosi, Prisca R. Bauer, Milan Scheidegger and David B. Yaden
Psychoactives 2024, 3(2), 215-234; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychoactives3020014 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Rationale: Psychedelic research re-emerged from a period of suppression into the so-called psychedelic renaissance. In parallel, most media reporting has shifted from the overstatement of the risks of psychedelics to overly positive hype. As the empirical evidence is more equivocal than frequently portrayed, [...] Read more.
Rationale: Psychedelic research re-emerged from a period of suppression into the so-called psychedelic renaissance. In parallel, most media reporting has shifted from the overstatement of the risks of psychedelics to overly positive hype. As the empirical evidence is more equivocal than frequently portrayed, the conclusions about the effectiveness of psychedelics should be considered preliminary. Poor science communication about psychedelics’ therapeutic potential may lead potential participants or patients to feel misled and policy decisions to be misinformed. An evidence-informed characterization of their risks and benefits is needed. Objectives: This article assesses the state of psychedelic research for treating depression and the effect sizes of psychedelics on therapeutic outcomes, the risk of bias, and the prevalence of adverse effects. We review research on the risks and benefits of psychedelics and discuss how the following depression treatments have shown decreasing effect sizes over time: (1) cognitive behavioral therapy, (2) mindfulness interventions, (3) selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and (4) ketamine. We speculate that a similar trend may occur for psychedelic treatments. Results and conclusions: It is likely that larger and better-controlled psychedelic trials will demonstrate smaller effect sizes that are more comparable to other conventional and emerging treatments for mood disorders. Clear science communication is critical for setting public expectations and psychedelic policy. With this evidence-based assessment, we aim to cut through the misinformation about the benefits, risks, and future prospects of psychedelic treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Hallucinogens in Mental Health)
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17 pages, 3139 KiB  
Article
Light-Responsive Soft Robot Integrating Actuation and Function Based on Laser Cutting
by Ben Jia, Changbo Liu, Yi Zhang, Yujin Tan, Xuecheng Tian, Yuanyuan Cui and Yuan Deng
Micromachines 2024, 15(4), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15040534 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Soft robots with good deformability and adaptability have important prospects in the bionics and intelligence field. However, current research into soft robots is primarily limited to the study of actuators and ignores the integrated use of functional devices and actuators. To enrich the [...] Read more.
Soft robots with good deformability and adaptability have important prospects in the bionics and intelligence field. However, current research into soft robots is primarily limited to the study of actuators and ignores the integrated use of functional devices and actuators. To enrich the functions of soft robots and expand their application fields, it is necessary to integrate various functional electronic devices into soft robots to perform diverse functions during dynamic deformation. Therefore, this paper discusses methods and strategies to manufacture optical stimuli-responsive soft actuators and integrate them into functional devices for soft robots. Specifically, laser cutting allows us to fabricate an optically responsive actuator structure, e.g., the curling direction can be controlled by adjusting the direction of the cutting line. Actuators with different bending curvatures, including nonbending, can be obtained by adjusting the cutting depth, cutting width, and the spacing of the cutting line, which makes it easy to obtain a folded structure. Thus, various actuators with complex shape patterns can be obtained. In addition, we demonstrate a fabrication scheme for a worm-like soft robot integrated with functional devices (LEDs are used in this paper). The local nonbending design provides an asymmetric structure that provides driving power and avoids damage to the functional circuit caused by the large deformation during movement. The integration of drive and function provides a new path for the application of soft robots in the intelligence and bionics field. Full article
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23 pages, 1482 KiB  
Systematic Review
Methods for Indirect Treatment Comparison: Results from a Systematic Literature Review
by Bérengère Macabeo, Arthur Quenéchdu, Samuel Aballéa, Clément François, Laurent Boyer and Philippe Laramée
J. Mark. Access Health Policy 2024, 12(2), 58-80; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmahp12020006 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Health technology assessment (HTA) agencies express a clear preference for randomized controlled trials when assessing the comparative efficacy of two or more treatments. However, an indirect treatment comparison (ITC) is often necessary where a direct comparison is unavailable or, in some cases, [...] Read more.
Introduction: Health technology assessment (HTA) agencies express a clear preference for randomized controlled trials when assessing the comparative efficacy of two or more treatments. However, an indirect treatment comparison (ITC) is often necessary where a direct comparison is unavailable or, in some cases, not possible. Numerous ITC techniques are described in the literature. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to identify all the relevant literature on existing ITC techniques, provide a comprehensive description of each technique and evaluate their strengths and limitations from an HTA perspective in order to develop guidance on the most appropriate method to use in different scenarios. Methods: Electronic database searches of Embase and PubMed, as well as grey literature searches, were conducted on 15 November 2021. Eligible articles were peer-reviewed papers that specifically described the methods used for different ITC techniques and were written in English. The review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: A total of 73 articles were included in the SLR, reporting on seven different ITC techniques. All reported techniques were forms of adjusted ITC. Network meta-analysis (NMA) was the most frequently described technique (in 79.5% of the included articles), followed by matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) (30.1%), network meta-regression (24.7%), the Bucher method (23.3%), simulated treatment comparison (STC) (21.9%), propensity score matching (4.1%) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (4.1%). The appropriate choice of ITC technique is critical and should be based on the feasibility of a connected network, the evidence of heterogeneity between and within studies, the overall number of relevant studies and the availability of individual patient-level data (IPD). MAIC and STC were found to be common techniques in the case of single-arm studies, which are increasingly being conducted in oncology and rare diseases, whilst the Bucher method and NMA provide suitable options where no IPD is available. Conclusion: ITCs can provide alternative evidence where direct comparative evidence may be missing. ITCs are currently considered by HTA agencies on a case-by-case basis; however, their acceptability remains low. Clearer international consensus and guidance on the methods to use for different ITC techniques is needed to improve the quality of ITCs submitted to HTA agencies. ITC techniques continue to evolve quickly, and more efficient techniques may become available in the future. Full article
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15 pages, 2182 KiB  
Article
Combination of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents and Nano-Liquid Chromatography towards White Analytical Chemistry: A Practical Application
by Álvaro Santana-Mayor, Giovanni D’Orazio, Salvatore Fanali, Miguel Ángel Rodríguez-Delgado and Bárbara Socas-Rodríguez
Separations 2024, 11(4), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11040119 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this work, a green and practical analytical method based on natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) as extraction agents and nano-liquid chromatography as a separation technique was developed. To demonstrate the applicability of the methodology, alkylphenols and bisphenol A were evaluated as model [...] Read more.
In this work, a green and practical analytical method based on natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) as extraction agents and nano-liquid chromatography as a separation technique was developed. To demonstrate the applicability of the methodology, alkylphenols and bisphenol A were evaluated as model compounds in olive and sunflower oils as model fatty samples by liquid–liquid microextraction. With this aim, several NADES based on mixtures of choline chloride with glycerol, lactic, ascorbic, and citric acids or glycerol with amino acids were evaluated as potential extraction solvents. In addition, to select the most suitable stationary phase for the separation of this group of contaminants, some stationary phases were tested, including Pinnacle II phenyl, Cogent Bidentate C18™, and XBridge® C18. The last one provided the best performance with an analysis time of 11 min. To solve the problem of the compatibility of hydrophilic NADES with chromatographic systems without harming the solubility of analytes, different aqueous organic mixtures were tested. Methanol/water mixtures were the most suitable as an injection solvent. Finally, following the White Analytical Chemistry principles, different tools were used to evaluate the greenness, the practicality, and applicability of the method based on the Analytical Eco-Scale, the Analytical GREEnness metric approach, and the Blue Applicability Grade Index. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Paper Collection in Section Chromatographic Separations)
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21 pages, 7798 KiB  
Article
Process Optimization of Tinospora cordifolia Extract-Loaded Water in Oil Nanoemulsion Developed by Ultrasound-Assisted Homogenization
by Varisha Anjum, Uday Bagale, Ammar Kadi, Artem Malinin, Irina Potoroko, Amal H. Alharbi, Doaa Sami Khafaga, Marawa AlMetwally, Al-Seyday T. Qenawy, Areefa Anjum and Faraat Ali
Molecules 2024, 29(8), 1797; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29081797 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Nanoemulsions are gaining interest in a variety of products as a means of integrating easily degradable bioactive compounds, preserving them from oxidation, and increasing their bioavailability. However, preparing stable emulsion compositions with the desired characteristics is a difficult task. The aim of this [...] Read more.
Nanoemulsions are gaining interest in a variety of products as a means of integrating easily degradable bioactive compounds, preserving them from oxidation, and increasing their bioavailability. However, preparing stable emulsion compositions with the desired characteristics is a difficult task. The aim of this study was to encapsulate the Tinospora cordifolia aqueous extract (TCAE) into a water in oil (W/O) nanoemulsion and identify its critical process and formulation variables, like oil (27–29.4 mL), the surfactant concentration (0.6–3 mL), and sonication amplitude (40% to 100%), using response surface methodology (RSM). The responses of this formulation were studied with an analysis of the particle size (PS), free fatty acids (FFAs), and encapsulation efficiency (EE). In between, we have studied a fishbone diagram that was used to measure risk and preliminary research. The optimized condition for the formation of a stable nanoemulsion using quality by design was surfactant (2.43 mL), oil concentration (27.61 mL), and sonication amplitude (88.6%), providing a PS of 171.62 nm, FFA content of 0.86 meq/kg oil and viscosity of 0.597 Pa.s for the blank sample compared to the enriched TCAE nanoemulsion with a PS of 243.60 nm, FFA content of 0.27 meq/kg oil and viscosity of 0.22 Pa.s. The EE increases with increasing concentrations of TCAE, from 56.88% to 85.45%. The RSM response demonstrated that both composition variables had a considerable impact on the properties of the W/O nanoemulsion. Furthermore, after the storage time, the enriched TCAE nanoemulsion showed better stability over the blank nanoemulsion, specially the FFAs, and the blank increased from 0.142 to 1.22 meq/kg oil, while TCAE showed 0.266 to 0.82 meq/kg. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Emerging Trends of Extraction and Encapsulation in Food)
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11 pages, 2674 KiB  
Article
Development and Evaluation of a Hybrid Measurement System to Determine the Kinematics of the Wrist
by Jason Dellai, Martine A. Gilles, Olivier Remy, Laurent Claudon and Gilles Dietrich
Sensors 2024, 24(8), 2543; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24082543 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Optical Motion Capture Systems (OMCSs) are considered the gold standard for kinematic measurement of human movements. However, in situations such as measuring wrist kinematics during a hairdressing activity, markers can be obscured, resulting in a loss of data. Other measurement methods based on [...] Read more.
Optical Motion Capture Systems (OMCSs) are considered the gold standard for kinematic measurement of human movements. However, in situations such as measuring wrist kinematics during a hairdressing activity, markers can be obscured, resulting in a loss of data. Other measurement methods based on non-optical data can be considered, such as magneto-inertial measurement units (MIMUs). Their accuracy is generally lower than that of an OMCS. In this context, it may be worth considering a hybrid system [MIMU + OMCS] to take advantage of OMCS accuracy while limiting occultation problems. The aim of this work was (1) to propose a methodology for coupling a low-cost MIMU (BNO055) to an OMCS in order to evaluate wrist kinematics, and then (2) to evaluate the accuracy of this hybrid system [MIMU + OMCS] during a simple hairdressing gesture. During hair cutting gestures, the root mean square error compared with the OMCS was 4.53° (1.45°) for flexion/extension, 5.07° (1.30°) for adduction/abduction, and 3.65° (1.19°) for pronation/supination. During combing gestures, they were significantly higher, but remained below 10°. In conclusion, this system allows for maintaining wrist kinematics in case of the loss of hand markers while preserving an acceptable level of precision (<10°) for ergonomic measurement or entertainment purposes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Wearable Sensors for Risk Assessment and Injury Prevention)
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15 pages, 2698 KiB  
Systematic Review
Sustainable Place Branding and Visitors’ Responses: A Systematic Literature Review
by Zanete Garanti, Shiva Ilkhanizadeh and Sotiroula Liasidou
Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3312; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083312 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Admittedly, tourism stakeholders become more aware of the negative impacts of tourism, and it has become increasingly important to brand and position destinations towards sustainability. The main concern is emphasizing economic, social, and environmental awareness and implementation at the destination level regarding planning [...] Read more.
Admittedly, tourism stakeholders become more aware of the negative impacts of tourism, and it has become increasingly important to brand and position destinations towards sustainability. The main concern is emphasizing economic, social, and environmental awareness and implementation at the destination level regarding planning and development. This paper identifies the importance of sustainable place branding as part of destination social responsibility in the current global context. The main focus is identifying visitors’ responses as part of sustainable destination marketing. The study conducts a systematic literature review by rigorously selecting 26 related articles from the 106 search results for further analysis. The study results highlight the emergence of sustainable place branding concepts in academic literature, especially after the post-pandemic period. The themes identified in the literature analysis revolve around sustainable place branding in creating unique tourism experiences and engagement that resonates with the visitors’ self-perceptions and expectations of a destination. Sustainable place branding positively impacts destination image, trust, value, and loyalty. Moreover, it can create positive visitor outcomes, such as an intention to revisit because of positive word of mouth. The article concludes with suggestions for future research, emphasizing the need to explore further sustainable place branding and its influence on visitors’ responses in the evolving landscape of global tourism. Full article
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15 pages, 1209 KiB  
Review
Early Rectal Cancer and Local Excision: A Narrative Review
by Cecilia Binda, Matteo Secco, Luigi Tuccillo, Chiara Coluccio, Elisa Liverani, Carlo Felix Maria Jung, Carlo Fabbri and Giulia Gibiino
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(8), 2292; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13082292 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
A rise in the incidence of early rectal cancer consequent to bowel-screening programs around the world and an increase in the incidence in young adults has led to a growing interest in organ-sparing treatment options. The rectum, being the most distal portion of [...] Read more.
A rise in the incidence of early rectal cancer consequent to bowel-screening programs around the world and an increase in the incidence in young adults has led to a growing interest in organ-sparing treatment options. The rectum, being the most distal portion of the large intestine, is a fertile ground for local excision techniques performed with endoscopic or surgical techniques. Moreover, the advancement in endoscopic optical evaluation and the better definition of imaging techniques allow for a more precise local staging of early rectal cancer. Although the local treatment of early rectal cancer seems promising, in clinical practice, a significant number of patients who could benefit from local excision techniques undergo total mesorectal excision (TME) as the first approach. All relevant prospective clinical trials were identified through a computer-assisted search of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Medline databases until January 2024. This review is dedicated to endoscopic and surgical local excision in the treatment of early rectal cancer and highlights its possible role in current and future clinical practice, taking into account surgical completion techniques and chemoradiotherapy. Full article
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15 pages, 2287 KiB  
Article
A CRISPR/Cas12a-Based System for Sensitive Detection of Antimicrobial-Resistant Genes in Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales
by Jiyong Shin, Sei Rim Kim, Zifan Xie, Yong-Su Jin and Yi-Cheng Wang
Biosensors 2024, 14(4), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14040194 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria pose a significant global health threat, and bacteria that produce New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) are particularly concerning due to their resistance to most β-lactam antibiotics, including carbapenems. The emergence and spread of NDM-producing genes in food-producing animals highlight the need [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria pose a significant global health threat, and bacteria that produce New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) are particularly concerning due to their resistance to most β-lactam antibiotics, including carbapenems. The emergence and spread of NDM-producing genes in food-producing animals highlight the need for a fast and accurate method for detecting AMR bacteria. We therefore propose a PCR-coupled CRISPR/Cas12a-based fluorescence assay that can detect NDM-producing genes (blaNDM) in bacteria. Thanks to its designed gRNA, this CRISPR/Cas12a system was able to simultaneously cleave PCR amplicons and ssDNA-FQ reporters, generating fluorescence signals. Our method was found to be highly specific when tested against other foodborne pathogens that do not carry blaNDM and also demonstrated an excellent capability to distinguish single-nucleotide polymorphism. In the case of blaNDM-1 carrying E. coli, the assay performed exceptionally well, with a detection limit of 2.7 × 100 CFU/mL: 100 times better than conventional PCR with gel electrophoresis. Moreover, the developed assay detected AMR bacteria in food samples and exhibited enhanced performance compared to previously published real-time PCR assays. Thus, this novel PCR-coupled CRISPR/Cas12a-based fluorescence assay has considerable potential to improve current approaches to AMR gene detection and thereby contribute to mitigating the global threat of AMR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue CRISPR/Cas-Based Biosensing Systems: Development and Applications)
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16 pages, 344 KiB  
Article
Strict Vector Equilibrium Problems of Multi-Product Supply–Demand Networks with Capacity Constraints and Uncertain Demands
by Ru Li and Guolin Yu
Axioms 2024, 13(4), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms13040263 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper considers a multi-product, multi-criteria supply–demand network equilibrium model with capacity constraints and uncertain demands. Strict network equilibrium principles are proposed both in the case of a single criterion and multi-criteria, respectively. Based on a single criterion, it proves that strict network [...] Read more.
This paper considers a multi-product, multi-criteria supply–demand network equilibrium model with capacity constraints and uncertain demands. Strict network equilibrium principles are proposed both in the case of a single criterion and multi-criteria, respectively. Based on a single criterion, it proves that strict network equilibrium flows are equivalent to vector variational inequalities, and the existence of strict network equilibrium flows is derived by virtue of the Fan–Browder fixed point theorem. Based on multi-criteria, the scalarization of strict network equilibrium flows is given by using Gerstewitz’s function without any convexity assumptions. Meanwhile, the necessary and sufficient conditions of strict network equilibrium flows are derived in terms of vector variational inequalities. Finally, an example is given to illustrate the application of the derived theoretical results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Numerical Analysis and Optimization)
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16 pages, 9180 KiB  
Article
Non-Electrically Driven Acoustic Actuator
by Takeru Niwano and Mitsuharu Matsumoto
Actuators 2024, 13(4), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/act13040148 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Nuclear power plants have high radiation levels and humans cannot work directly on them. Therefore, it is necessary to establish effective repair work methods. One promising approach is the use of disaster relief robots. However, strong radiation affects circuits and electronic devices. Because [...] Read more.
Nuclear power plants have high radiation levels and humans cannot work directly on them. Therefore, it is necessary to establish effective repair work methods. One promising approach is the use of disaster relief robots. However, strong radiation affects circuits and electronic devices. Because typical robots contain electrical circuits and are controlled by radio waves, they are difficult to use in highly radioactive environments. In this study, we propose a non-electrically driven acoustic actuator that does not use electronic circuits and is driven by sound waves. To realize this goal, we have investigated a sound wave drive using a cylindrical container. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actuators in 2024)
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26 pages, 10442 KiB  
Article
Process Optimization of the Morphological Properties of Epoxy Resin Molding Compounds Using Response Surface Design
by Julian Vogelwaid, Martin Bayer, Michael Walz, Larysa Kutuzova, Andreas Kandelbauer and Timo Jacob
Polymers 2024, 16(8), 1102; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16081102 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
An epoxy compound’s polymer structure can be characterized by the glass transition temperature (Tg) which is often seen as the primary morphological characteristic. Determining the Tg after manufacturing thermoset-molded parts is an important objective in material characterization. To characterize [...] Read more.
An epoxy compound’s polymer structure can be characterized by the glass transition temperature (Tg) which is often seen as the primary morphological characteristic. Determining the Tg after manufacturing thermoset-molded parts is an important objective in material characterization. To characterize quantitatively the dependence of Tg on the degree of cure, the DiBenedetto equation is usually used. Monitoring polymer network formation during molding processes is therefore one of the most challenging tasks in polymer processing and can be achieved using dielectric analysis (DEA). In this study, the morphological properties of an epoxy resin-based molding compounds (EMC) were optimized for the molding process using response surface analysis. Processing parameters such as curing temperature, curing time, and injection rate were investigated according to a DoE strategy and analyzed as the main factors affecting Tg as well as the degree of cure. A new method to measure the Tg at a certain degree of cure was developed based on warpage analysis. The degree of cure was determined inline via dielectric analysis (DEA) and offline using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results were used as the response in the DoE models. The use of the DiBenedetto equation to refine the response characteristics for a wide range of process parameters has significantly improved the quality of response surface models based on the DoE approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Thermal Characterization of Polymers and Polymer Composites)
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14 pages, 3496 KiB  
Article
Effects of Chronic Stress from High Stocking Density in Mariculture: Evaluations of Growth Performance and Lipid Metabolism of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhychus mykiss)
by Zhao Li, Qinfeng Gao, Shuanglin Dong, Kang Dong, Yuling Xu, Yaoping Mei and Zhishuai Hou
Biology 2024, 13(4), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040263 (registering DOI) - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: In aquaculture, chronic stress due to high stocking density impairs animals’ welfare and results in declined fishery production with low protein quality. However, most previous studies evaluated the effects of high stocking density on trout in freshwater rather than seawater. (2) [...] Read more.
(1) Background: In aquaculture, chronic stress due to high stocking density impairs animals’ welfare and results in declined fishery production with low protein quality. However, most previous studies evaluated the effects of high stocking density on trout in freshwater rather than seawater. (2) Methods: Juvenile trout were reared for 84 days in circular tanks under three stocking densities, including low density (“LD”, 9.15 kg/m3), moderate density (“MD”, 13.65 kg/m3), and high density (“HD”, 27.31 kg/m3) in seawater. The final densities of LD, MD, and HD were 22.00, 32.05 and 52.24 kg/m3, respectively. Growth performance and lipid metabolism were evaluated. (3) Results: Growth performance and feeding efficiency were significantly reduced due to chronic stress under high density in mariculture. The digestive activity of lipids was promoted in the gut of HD fish, while the concentration of triglycerides was decreased in the blood. Furthermore, decreased acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and fatty acid synthase (FAS), increased hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) concentrations, and activated hepatic β-oxidation processes were observed in trout under HD. Redundancy analysis showed that glycerol and HSL can be used as potential markers to evaluate the growth performance of trout in mariculture. (4) Conclusions: We showed that chronic high stocking density led to negative effects on growth performance, reduced de novo synthesis of fatty acids, and enhanced lipolysis. Full article
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