The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
13 pages, 4082 KiB  
Article
Effects of Heating Bituminous Mixtures in a Hot-Gas Drum Based on a Finite Volume Method
by Xuan Li, Haiying Cheng, Xiaohui Liu and Wenfeng Zhu
Symmetry 2024, 16(5), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16050559 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Hot-gas drum heating (HDH) of bituminous mixtures is a new approach to heating bituminous mixtures that is influenced by the parameters of the hot gas and drum. A fluid thermal numerical model was developed to evaluate the effects of heating bituminous mixtures with [...] Read more.
Hot-gas drum heating (HDH) of bituminous mixtures is a new approach to heating bituminous mixtures that is influenced by the parameters of the hot gas and drum. A fluid thermal numerical model was developed to evaluate the effects of heating bituminous mixtures with HDH using a finite-volume method (FVM). The FVM was verified through the heating test of a bituminous mixture. The effects of the drum rotating speed and hot-gas speed on the efficiency of heating the bituminous mixture during HDH were analyzed using Fluent. The results indicated that the drum rotating speed directly influenced the formation of a bituminous-mixture curtain, which had a significant effect on the efficiency of heating the bituminous mixture. The efficiency of the heat exchange between the hot gas and the bituminous mixture was high, with full contact between the hot gas and the bituminous mixture. With an increase in the hot-gas speed, the heating time became shorter; however, the rate of hot-gas utilization was reduced. A symmetrical temperature distribution and a superior heating efficiency of the bituminous mixture were achieved when the drum rotating speed was 7 rpm and the hot-gas speed was 1.4 m/s. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Engineering and Materials)
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11 pages, 5547 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Agreement between Oral, Armpit, and Ear Temperature Readings during Physical Activities in an Outdoor Setting
by Yuanzhe Zhao, Leonardo de Almeida e Bueno, David A. Holdsworth and Jeroen H. M. Bergmann
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050595 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Accurate body temperature measurement is essential for monitoring and managing safety during outdoor activities. Physical activities are an essential consideration for public health, with sports taking up an important proportion of these. Athletes’ performances can be directly affected by body temperature fluctuations, with [...] Read more.
Accurate body temperature measurement is essential for monitoring and managing safety during outdoor activities. Physical activities are an essential consideration for public health, with sports taking up an important proportion of these. Athletes’ performances can be directly affected by body temperature fluctuations, with overheating or hypothermia posing serious health risks. Monitoring these temperatures allows coaches and medical staff to make decisions that enhance performance and safety. Traditional methods, like oral, axillary, and tympanic readings, are widely used, but face challenges during intense physical activities in real-world environments. This study evaluated the agreement, correlation, and interchangeability of oral, axillary, and tympanic temperature measurements in outdoor exercise conditions. Systems developed for specific placements might generate different sensor readouts. Conducted as an observational field study, it involved 21 adult participants (11 males and 10 females, average age 25.14 ± 5.80 years) that underwent the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test protocol on an outdoor court. The main outcomes measured were the agreement and correlation between temperature readings from the three methods, both before and after exercise. The results indicate poor agreement between the measurement sites, with significant deviations observed post-exercise. Although the Spearman correlation coefficients showed consistent temperature changes post-exercise across all methods, the standard deviations in the pairwise comparisons exceeded 0.67 °C. This study concluded that widely used temperature measurement methods are challenging to use during outdoor exercises and should not be considered interchangeable. This variability, especially after exercise, underscores the need for further research using gold standard temperature measurement methods to determine the most suitable site for accurate readings. Care should thus be taken when temperature screening is done at scale using traditional methods, as each measurement site should be considered within its own right. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Physical Activity on Human Fitness)
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16 pages, 601 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Tillage and the Combined Application of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on the Antioxidant Enzyme Activity and Yield of Maize Leaves
by Guangming Xie, Min Liang, Pei Chen, Chang Zhang, Mingyuan Fan, Chuangyun Wang and Li Zhao
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 968; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050968 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the characteristics of the combined application of organic fertilizer and inorganic fertilizer using different tillage methods to delay the senescence of maize leaves. The yield and activities of GDH, CAT, APX, GR, and GSH enzymes [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to explore the characteristics of the combined application of organic fertilizer and inorganic fertilizer using different tillage methods to delay the senescence of maize leaves. The yield and activities of GDH, CAT, APX, GR, and GSH enzymes in maize leaves were measured at different growth stages by using two tillage methods, three organic and inorganic combined applications (P1, P2, and P3), and four control treatments. (1) During the growth period, the R + S and R treatments were P1 treatments, with the highest enzyme activities noted for GDH, CAT, APX, GR, and GSH, which were 36.79–103.22% higher than those of CK. (2) The average yield of all R + S treatments was higher than that of R treatments, and the average yield of P1 treatment was the highest under R + S, which was 13,663.79 kg hm2, which was 6.39%, 7.90%, and 14.67% higher than that of P2, P3, and CK, respectively, which was lower than that of R. The yield of P1 treatment was 2.53% higher. (3) There was a significant positive correlation between APX activity, CAT activity, GR activity, GDH activity, GSH activity, grain number per ear, ear length, and 100-grain weight of maize leaves at the grain filling stage, and a significant negative correlation between bald tip length and yield. The treatment details had the strongest enzyme activity and the highest yield when using the rotary tillage + subsoiling (R + S) P1 method, which was the most suitable tillage method and the best fertilizer ratio combination, which could be demonstrated and popularized in a large area in the dry farming area of spring maize in Shanxi Province. Full article
23 pages, 1253 KiB  
Article
The Weighted Least-Squares Approach to State Estimation in Linear State Space Models: The Case of Correlated Noise Terms
by Andreas Galka
Algorithms 2024, 17(5), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/a17050194 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
In this article, a particular approach to deriving recursive state estimators for linear state space models is generalised, namely the weighted least-squares approach introduced by Duncan and Horn in 1972, for the case of the two noise processes arising in such models being [...] Read more.
In this article, a particular approach to deriving recursive state estimators for linear state space models is generalised, namely the weighted least-squares approach introduced by Duncan and Horn in 1972, for the case of the two noise processes arising in such models being cross-correlated; in this context, the fact that in the available literature two different non-equivalent recursive algorithms are presented for the task of state estimation in the aforementioned case is discussed. Although the origin of the difference between these two algorithms can easily be identified, the issue has only rarely been discussed so far. Then the situations in which each of the two algorithms apply are explored, and a generalised Kalman filter which represents a merger of the two original algorithms is proposed. While, strictly speaking, optimal state estimates can be obtained only through the non-recursive weighted least-squares approach, in examples of modelling simulated and real-world data, the recursive generalised Kalman filter shows almost as good performance as the optimal non-recursive filter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Algorithms for Multidisciplinary Applications)
17 pages, 7758 KiB  
Article
Fracture Toughness, Radiation Hardness, and Processibility of Polymers for Superconducting Magnets
by Anders Gaarud, Christian Scheuerlein, David Mate Parragh, Sébastien Clement, Jacob Bertsch, Cedric Urscheler, Roland Piccin, Federico Ravotti, Giuseppe Pezzullo and Ralf Lach
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1287; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091287 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
High fracture toughness at cryogenic temperature and radiation hardness can be conflicting requirements for the resins for the impregnation of superconducting magnet coils. The fracture toughness of different epoxy-resin systems at room temperature (RT) and at 77 K was measured, and their toughness [...] Read more.
High fracture toughness at cryogenic temperature and radiation hardness can be conflicting requirements for the resins for the impregnation of superconducting magnet coils. The fracture toughness of different epoxy-resin systems at room temperature (RT) and at 77 K was measured, and their toughness was compared with that determined for a polyurethane, polycarbonate (PC) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). Among the epoxy resins tested in this study, the MY750 system has the highest 77 K fracture toughness of KIC = 4.6 MPa√m, which is comparable to the KIC of PMMA, which also exhibits linear elastic behaviour and unstable crack propagation. The polyurethane system tested has a much higher 77 K toughness than the epoxy resins, approaching the toughness of PC, which is known as one of the toughest polymer materials. CTD101K is the least performing in terms of fracture toughness. Despite this, it is used for the impregnation of large Nb3Sn coils for its good processing capabilities and relatively high radiation resistance. In this study, the fracture toughness of CTD101K was improved by adding the polyglycol flexibiliser Araldite DY040 as a fourth component. The different epoxy-resin systems were exposed to proton and gamma doses up to 38 MGy, and it was found that adding the DY040 flexibiliser to the CTD101K system did not significantly change the irradiation-induced ageing behaviour. The viscosity evolution of the uncured resin mix is not significantly changed when adding the DY040 flexibiliser, and at the processing temperature of 60 °C, the viscosity remains below 200 cP for more than 24 h. Therefore, the new resin referred to as POLAB Mix is now used for the impregnation of superconducting magnet coils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Processing and Engineering)
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15 pages, 17531 KiB  
Article
Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPO) of Comminuted Radial Fractures Using a Locking Plate Contoured on a 3D-Printed Model of the Feline Antebrachium: A Cadaveric Study
by Piotr Trębacz, Jan Frymus, Mateusz Pawlik, Anna Barteczko, Aleksandra Kurkowska and Michał Czopowicz
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1381; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091381 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Due to the unique structural and functional characteristics of the forelimb in cats, fractures of the radius and ulna are best repaired using internal fixation and stabilization in accordance with AO principles. This study presents the results of reduction of 42 [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Due to the unique structural and functional characteristics of the forelimb in cats, fractures of the radius and ulna are best repaired using internal fixation and stabilization in accordance with AO principles. This study presents the results of reduction of 42 cadaveric comminuted feline radial fractures reduced by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). (2) Methods: Radius fractures were created on 21 pairs of forelimbs with intact bones. MIPO was then performed using two locking bone plates pre-contoured on 3D-printed bone models of the antebrachium of a male and a female cat. Pre- and postoperative radiographs were taken, and radius length and anatomical lateral distal radial angle (aLDRA) were measured. (3) Results: All fractures were classified as complex diaphyseal fractures of the radius. The radial bone length did not change significantly after surgery (F1,18 = 0.01, p = 0.933). However, the aLDRA was modified after surgery (F1,18 = 7.51, p = 0.013), but this change was only observed in females, in whom the aLDRA was significantly reduced (p = 0.035) compared to the value determined by the shape of the plate. In males, the pre- and postoperative aLDRA values were similar (p = 0.824). In 40 cases, alignment, adjacency of bone fragments, and apparatus were judged to be satisfactory. In two cases, the plate was fixed to the proximal radius and distal ulna due to misidentification of the distal radius. In both cases, revision surgery and correct fixation of the radius gave proper alignment, adjacency, and apparatus. (4) Conclusion: A pre-contoured plate on a 3D-printed model of the male and female domestic cat antebrachium was suitable for the reduction and stabilization of comminuted radial fractures in a cohort of domestic cat cadavers without the need to print individual antebrachial bone models for each patient. Full article
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14 pages, 2677 KiB  
Article
A 6 Mbps 7 pJ/bit CMOS Integrated Wireless Simultaneous Lightwave Information and Power Transfer System for Biomedical Implants
by Andrea De Marcellis, Guido Di Patrizio Stanchieri, Marco Faccio, Elia Palange and Timothy G. Constandinou
Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1774; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091774 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
This paper presents a Simultaneous Lightwave Information and Power Transfer (SLIPT) system for implantable biomedical applications composed of an external and internal (i.e., implantable) unit designed at a transistor level in TMSC 0.18 µm standard CMOS Si technology, requiring Si areas of 200 [...] Read more.
This paper presents a Simultaneous Lightwave Information and Power Transfer (SLIPT) system for implantable biomedical applications composed of an external and internal (i.e., implantable) unit designed at a transistor level in TMSC 0.18 µm standard CMOS Si technology, requiring Si areas of 200 × 260 µm2 and 615 × 950 µm2, respectively. The SLIPT external unit employs a semiconductor laser to transmit data and power to the SLIPT internal unit, which contains an Optical Wireless Power Transfer (OWPT) module to supply its circuitry and, in particular, the data receiver module. To enable these operations, the transmitter module of the SLIPT external unit uses a novel reverse multilevel synchronized pulse position modulation technique based on dropping the laser driving current to zero so it produces laser pulses with a reversed intensity profile. This modulation technique allows: (i) the SLIPT external unit to code and transmit data packages of 6-bit symbols received and decoded by the SLIPT internal unit; and (ii) to supply the OWPT module also in the period between the transmission of two consecutive data packages. The receiver module operates for a time window of 12.5 µs every 500 µs, this being the time needed for the OWPT module to fully recover the energy to power the SLIPT internal unit. Post-layout simulations demonstrate that the proposed SLIPT system provides a final data throughput of 6 Mbps, an energy efficiency of 7 pJ/bit, and an OWPT module power transfer efficiency of 40%. Full article
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13 pages, 1949 KiB  
Communication
Identification and Pathogenicity of Fusarium Species Associated with Onion Basal Rot in the Moscow Region of Russian Federation
by Svetlana Vetrova, Ksenia Alyokhina, Irina Engalycheva, Elena Kozar, Kseniya Mukhina, Maria Sletova, Leonid Krivenkov, Tatyana Tikhonova, Alina Kameneva, Svetlana Frolova, Vera Chizhik and Viktor Martynov
J. Fungi 2024, 10(5), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10050331 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Fusarium basal rot of onions causes large losses during storage of commercial production of onion bulbs, which in turn adversely affects the food market situation in the off-season period. There are no data on the composition of Fusarium spp., which causes onion basal [...] Read more.
Fusarium basal rot of onions causes large losses during storage of commercial production of onion bulbs, which in turn adversely affects the food market situation in the off-season period. There are no data on the composition of Fusarium spp., which causes onion basal rot in the Russian Federation. Therefore, our research was aimed at Fusarium spp. causing onion basal rot in the Moscow Region of the Russian Federation and studying the pathogenicity of these species for the host plant. We studied 20 isolates of Fusarium spp. collected from affected mature bulbs and seed bulbs. Species identification of the isolates was carried out using analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the three genetic loci ITS, tef1 and rpb2, as well as was based on the macro- and micromorphological characteristics of these isolates. As a result, the species F. annulatum (F. fujikuroi species complex), F. oxysporum (F. oxysporum species complex), F. acuminatum (F. tricinctum species complex) and F. solani (F. solani species complex) were identified to involve in the pathogenesis of Fusarium basal rot. We have shown for the first time that the species F. annulatum and F. acuminatum are highly aggressive and capable of causing onion basal rot. The predominant species were F. annulatum and F. oxysporum. The proportion of these species in the total number of analyzed isolates was 60% and 25%, respectively. The largest proportion (33%) of highly aggressive on mature bulbs isolates was found in the species F. annulatum. The data obtained provide practical insights for developing strategies to manage Fusarium fungi responsible for onion basal rot Moscow Region of the Russian Federation. In addition, data about species composition and aggressive isolates may be used in onion breeding for resistance to Fusarium basal rot. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphology, Phylogeny and Pathogenicity of Fusarium)
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17 pages, 3508 KiB  
Article
Improving Bacterial Metagenomic Research through Long-Read Sequencing
by Noah Greenman, Sayf Al-Deen Hassouneh, Latifa S. Abdelli, Catherine Johnston and Taj Azarian
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050935 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Metagenomic sequencing analysis is central to investigating microbial communities in clinical and environmental studies. Short-read sequencing remains the primary approach for metagenomic research; however, long-read sequencing may offer advantages of improved metagenomic assembly and resolved taxonomic identification. To compare the relative performance for [...] Read more.
Metagenomic sequencing analysis is central to investigating microbial communities in clinical and environmental studies. Short-read sequencing remains the primary approach for metagenomic research; however, long-read sequencing may offer advantages of improved metagenomic assembly and resolved taxonomic identification. To compare the relative performance for metagenomic studies, we simulated short- and long-read datasets using increasingly complex metagenomes comprising 10, 20, and 50 microbial taxa. Additionally, we used an empirical dataset of paired short- and long-read data generated from mouse fecal pellets to assess real-world performance. We compared metagenomic assembly quality, taxonomic classification, and metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) recovery rates. We show that long-read sequencing data significantly improve taxonomic classification and assembly quality. Metagenomic assemblies using simulated long reads were more complete and more contiguous with higher rates of MAG recovery. This resulted in more precise taxonomic classifications. Principal component analysis of empirical data demonstrated that sequencing technology affects compositional results as samples clustered by sequence type, not sample type. Overall, we highlight strengths of long-read metagenomic sequencing for microbiome studies, including improving the accuracy of classification and relative abundance estimates. These results will aid researchers when considering which sequencing approaches to use for metagenomic projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiomes)
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21 pages, 1842 KiB  
Article
Hemp Flour as a Functional Ingredient for the Partial Replacement of Nitrites in a Minced Meat Model: Effect on Nutrient Composition, Antioxidant Profile and Sensory Characteristics
by Georgios Papatzimos, Paraskevi Mitlianga, Zoitsa Basdagianni and Eleni Kasapidou
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3925; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093925 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about synthetic preservatives like nitrites in meat, prompting the meat industry to explore alternatives in order to lower nitrite levels. This study investigated the effects of incorporating hemp flour on the chemical and shelf-life characteristics of minced meat [...] Read more.
Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about synthetic preservatives like nitrites in meat, prompting the meat industry to explore alternatives in order to lower nitrite levels. This study investigated the effects of incorporating hemp flour on the chemical and shelf-life characteristics of minced meat products with reduced nitrite content. Three types of products were prepared: HF0 (control) (0% hemp flour, 30 mg/kg NaNO2), HF4 (4% hemp flour, 15 mg/kg NaNO2), and HF6 (6% hemp flour, 15 mg/kg NaNO2). Analyses were conducted on proximate composition, fatty acid composition, antioxidant properties, lipid oxidation, colour, texture, and sensory characteristics. The addition of hemp flour at 6% reduced moisture content and influenced ash and sodium chloride levels in minced meat products. Despite the favorable fatty acid profile of hemp flour, its inclusion did not significantly alter the composition of the products. However, it did lead to significantly lower levels of lipid oxidation and modified the antioxidant capacity. Colour attributes were affected, with a higher hemp flour content resulting in colour deterioration. Cooking loss increased with a higher hemp flour content, and the minced meat products were significantly harder. Visual and olfactory sensory evaluation indicated that there were no significant differences in most traits, suggesting consumer acceptance of hemp-flour-enriched minced meat products. Overall, this study highlights the potential of hemp as a functional ingredient in minced meat products, also exhibiting the ability to reduce lipid oxidation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Meat Quality and Processing)
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12 pages, 2522 KiB  
Article
Cold Energy Storage via Hydrates Production with Pure CO2 and CO2/N2 (70/30 and 50/50 vol%) Mixtures: Quantification and Comparison between Energy Stored and Energy Spent
by Alberto Maria Gambelli, Federico Rossi and Giovanni Gigliotti
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2211; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092211 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Gas hydrates represent an attractive opportunity for gas storage. These ice-like structures can be produced both for the final disposal of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide in the solid form and for the storage of energy gases, such as methane, propane, and [...] Read more.
Gas hydrates represent an attractive opportunity for gas storage. These ice-like structures can be produced both for the final disposal of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide in the solid form and for the storage of energy gases, such as methane, propane, and others, with the possibility of reaching energy densities comparable with those of pressurised vessels, but at lower pressures. In addition, gas hydrates can be directly produced for their capability to act as phase change materials at temperatures higher than 0 °C. This research deals with cold energy storage via the production of gas hydrate into a lab-scale apparatus. Hydrates were produced with pure carbon dioxide and with CO2/N2 mixtures (70/30 and 50/50 vol%). For each mixture, the amount of energy spent for hydrates production and cold energy stored were calculated, and the results were compared among each other. The addition of nitrogen to the system allowed us to maximise the energy stored/energy spent ratio, which passed from 78.06% to 109.04%; however, due to its molecular size and the consequent impossibility to stabilise the occupied water cages, nitrogen caused a reduction in the total quantity of hydrates produced, which was obviously proportional to the energy stored. Therefore, the concentration of nitrogen in the mixtures need to be carefully determined in order to optimise the Estored/Espent ratio. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gas Hydrates: A Future Clean Energy Resource)
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14 pages, 2764 KiB  
Article
The Disassociation of A3G-Related HIV-1 cDNA G-to-A Hypermutation to Viral Infectivity
by Joanie Martin, Xin Chen, Xiangxu Jia, Qiujia Shao and Bindong Liu
Viruses 2024, 16(5), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050728 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
APOBEC3G (A3G) restricts HIV-1 replication primarily by reducing viral cDNA and inducing G-to-A hypermutations in viral cDNA. HIV-1 encodes virion infectivity factor (Vif) to counteract A3G primarily by excluding A3G viral encapsidation. Even though the Vif-induced exclusion is robust, studies suggest that A3G [...] Read more.
APOBEC3G (A3G) restricts HIV-1 replication primarily by reducing viral cDNA and inducing G-to-A hypermutations in viral cDNA. HIV-1 encodes virion infectivity factor (Vif) to counteract A3G primarily by excluding A3G viral encapsidation. Even though the Vif-induced exclusion is robust, studies suggest that A3G is still detectable in the virion. The impact of encapsidated A3G in the HIV-1 replication is unclear. Using a highly sensitive next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based G-to-A hypermutation detecting assay, we found that wild-type HIV-1 produced from A3G-expressing T-cells induced higher G-to-A hypermutation frequency in viral cDNA than HIV-1 from non-A3G-expressing T-cells. Interestingly, although the virus produced from A3G-expressing T-cells induced higher hypermutation frequency, there was no significant difference in viral infectivity, revealing a disassociation of cDNA G-to-A hypermutation to viral infectivity. We also measured G-to-A hypermutation in the viral RNA genome. Surprisingly, our data showed that hypermutation frequency in the viral RNA genome was significantly lower than in the integrated DNA, suggesting a mechanism exists to preferentially select intact genomic RNA for viral packing. This study revealed a new insight into the mechanism of HIV-1 counteracting A3G antiviral function and might lay a foundation for new antiviral strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellular Mechanisms Regulating HIV Replication)
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14 pages, 1150 KiB  
Case Report
The Occurrence of a Rare Mandibular Retromolar Triangle Schwannoma and Its Differentiation from Other Rare and Atypical Oral Cavity Tumours
by Kamil Nelke, Maciej Janeczek, Edyta Pasicka, Krzysztof Żak, Szczepan Barnaś, Jan Nienartowicz, Grzegorz Gogolewski, Irma Maag and Maciej Dobrzyński
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3924; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093924 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) remains the diagnostic modality of choice. The involvement of the cortical bone and adjacent teeth can be easily established via CBCT. Magnetic resonance can be helpful in the estimation of any other soft-tissue tumour spread within this anatomical area. [...] Read more.
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) remains the diagnostic modality of choice. The involvement of the cortical bone and adjacent teeth can be easily established via CBCT. Magnetic resonance can be helpful in the estimation of any other soft-tissue tumour spread within this anatomical area. The soft, hard-tissue, or mixed aetiology of tumours requires a differential diagnosis and accurate evaluation. If such pathologies arise, an adequate biopsy or incisional biopsy is essential to evaluate the type of tumour histopathologically. The occurrence of some neural tumours in the oral cavity is rare. Schwannomas (SCs), like some neuromas and other types of neural tumours, are rare and atypical. During clinical examination, a smooth, sponge-like, elastic mass could indicate other small salivary gland tumours rather than an oral neural tumour. Such pathologies of neural origins are quite rare and are uncommon findings in the oral cavity; therefore, their appearance may be conflated with other more typical benign or malignant tumours in the oral cavity. Establishing the status of bone via CBCT, the tooth involvement and the composition of the cortical bone may be helpful for establishing the best treatment of choice. The presented case report describes a rare schwannoma localised at the mandibular retromolar trigone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orthodontics and Maxillofacial Surgery)
30 pages, 755 KiB  
Review
The Dawn and Advancement of the Knowledge of the Genetics of Migraine
by Nader G. Zalaquett, Elio Salameh, Jonathan M. Kim, Elham Ghanbarian, Karen Tawk and Mehdi Abouzari
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2701; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092701 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Migraine is a prevalent episodic brain disorder known for recurrent attacks of unilateral headaches, accompanied by complaints of photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, and vomiting. Two main categories of migraine are migraine with aura (MA) and migraine without aura (MO). Main body: Early [...] Read more.
Background: Migraine is a prevalent episodic brain disorder known for recurrent attacks of unilateral headaches, accompanied by complaints of photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, and vomiting. Two main categories of migraine are migraine with aura (MA) and migraine without aura (MO). Main body: Early twin and population studies have shown a genetic basis for these disorders, and efforts have been invested since to discern the genes involved. Many techniques, including candidate-gene association studies, loci linkage studies, genome-wide association, and transcription studies, have been used for this goal. As a result, several genes were pinned with concurrent and conflicting data among studies. It is important to understand the evolution of techniques and their findings. Conclusions: This review provides a chronological understanding of the different techniques used from the dawn of migraine genetic investigations and the genes linked with the migraine subtypes. Full article
19 pages, 8290 KiB  
Article
Numerical Estimation of Nonlinear Thermal Conductivity of SAE 1020 Steel
by Ariel Flores Monteiro de Oliveira, Elisan dos Santos Magalhães, Kahl Dick Zilnyk, Philippe Le Masson and Ernandes José Gonçalves do Nascimento
Computation 2024, 12(5), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/computation12050092 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Thermally characterizing high-thermal conductivity materials is challenging, especially considering high temperatures. However, the modeling of heat transfer processes requires specific material information. The present study addresses an inverse approach to estimate the thermal conductivity of SAE 1020 relative to temperature during an autogenous [...] Read more.
Thermally characterizing high-thermal conductivity materials is challenging, especially considering high temperatures. However, the modeling of heat transfer processes requires specific material information. The present study addresses an inverse approach to estimate the thermal conductivity of SAE 1020 relative to temperature during an autogenous LASER Beam Welding (LBW) experiment. The temperature profile during LBW is computed with the aid of an in-house CUDA-C algorithm. Here, the governing three-dimensional heat diffusion equation is discretized through the Finite Volume Method (FVM) and solved using the Successive Over-Relaxation (SOR) parallelized iterative solver. With temperature information, one may employ a minimization procedure to assess thermal properties or process parameters. In this work, the Quadrilateral Optimization Method (QOM) is applied to perform estimations because it allows for the simultaneous optimization of variables with no quantity restriction and renders the assessment of parameters in unsteady states valid, thereby preventing the requirement for steady-state experiments. We extended QOM’s prior applicability to account for more parameters concurrently. In Case I, the optimization of the three parameters that compose the second-degree polynomial function model of thermal conductivity is performed. In Case II, the heat distribution model’s gross heat rate (Ω) is also estimated in addition to the previous parameters. Ω [W] quantifies the power the sample receives and is related to the process’s efficiency. The method’s suitability for estimating the parameters was confirmed by investigating the reduced sensitivity coefficients, while the method’s stability was corroborated by performing the estimates with noisy data. There is a good agreement between the reference and estimated values. Hence, this study introduces a proper methodology for estimating a temperature-dependent thermal property and an LBW parameter. As the performance of the present algorithm is increased using parallel computation, a pondered solution between estimation reliability and computational cost is achieved. Full article
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21 pages, 1496 KiB  
Review
The Dynamic Relationship between Dengue Virus and the Human Cutaneous Innate Immune Response
by Michelle M. Martí, Priscila M. S. Castanha and Simon M. Barratt-Boyes
Viruses 2024, 16(5), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050727 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) is a continuing global threat that puts half of the world’s population at risk for infection. This mosquito-transmitted virus is endemic in over 100 countries. When a mosquito takes a bloodmeal, virus is deposited into the epidermal and dermal layers [...] Read more.
Dengue virus (DENV) is a continuing global threat that puts half of the world’s population at risk for infection. This mosquito-transmitted virus is endemic in over 100 countries. When a mosquito takes a bloodmeal, virus is deposited into the epidermal and dermal layers of human skin, infecting a variety of permissive cells, including keratinocytes, Langerhans cells, macrophages, dermal dendritic cells, fibroblasts, and mast cells. In response to infection, the skin deploys an array of defense mechanisms to inhibit viral replication and prevent dissemination. Antimicrobial peptides, pattern recognition receptors, and cytokines induce a signaling cascade to increase transcription and translation of pro-inflammatory and antiviral genes. Paradoxically, this inflammatory environment recruits skin-resident mononuclear cells that become infected and migrate out of the skin, spreading virus throughout the host. The details of the viral–host interactions in the cutaneous microenvironment remain unclear, partly due to the limited body of research focusing on DENV in human skin. This review will summarize the functional role of human skin, the cutaneous innate immune response to DENV, the contribution of the arthropod vector, and the models used to study DENV interactions in the cutaneous environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innate and Adaptive Immunity to Cutaneous Virus Infection)
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12 pages, 2689 KiB  
Article
Electron Microscopy for the Stability Assessment of Parenteral Nutrition Admixtures: Focus on Precipitation
by Luis Otero-Millán, Brais Bea-Mascato, Jose Luis Legido Soto, Noemi Martínez-López-De-Castro and Natividad Lago Rivero
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1390; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091390 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: parenteral nutrition (PN) is indispensable for patients unable to receive oral or enteral feeding. However, the complexity of PN solutions presents challenges regarding stability and compatibility. Precipitation reactions may occur. The most frequent is the formation of calcium phosphate (Ca-P). The [...] Read more.
(1) Background: parenteral nutrition (PN) is indispensable for patients unable to receive oral or enteral feeding. However, the complexity of PN solutions presents challenges regarding stability and compatibility. Precipitation reactions may occur. The most frequent is the formation of calcium phosphate (Ca-P). The different factors influencing these reactions must be considered to ensure patient safety. (2) Methods: eight paediatric PN solutions were prepared, following standard protocols. Samples were stored at room temperature and in a refrigerator. Electron microscopy, coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), was employed. Precipitates were analysed for composition and morphology. (3) Results: precipitates were observed in all samples, even at day 0. Crystalline structures, predominantly composed of calcium or magnesium, sometimes associated with chlorine or phosphorus, were detected. Additionally, amorphous precipitates, contained heterogeneous compositions, including unexpected elements, were identified. (4) Conclusions: various precipitates, primarily calcium- or magnesium-based, can form in PN solutions, although it is not expected that they can form under the real conditions of use. Calcium oxalate precipitation has been characterised, but the use of organic calcium and phosphate salts appears to mitigate calcium phosphate precipitation. Electron microscopy provides interesting results on NP precipitation, but sample preparation may present technical limitations that affect the interpretation of the results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimizing Nutrition for Preterm Newborns)
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16 pages, 1239 KiB  
Article
Identifying the Differences in Symmetry of the Anthropometric Parameters of the Upper Limbs in Relation to Manual Laterality between Athletes Who Practice Sports with and without a Ball
by Adela Badau and Dana Badau
Symmetry 2024, 16(5), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16050558 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the asymmetries between the dimensions of the upper limbs, in relation to manual laterality, of the athletes who practice team sports with a ball and those who practice other sports without a ball. We consider [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to identify the asymmetries between the dimensions of the upper limbs, in relation to manual laterality, of the athletes who practice team sports with a ball and those who practice other sports without a ball. We consider the fact that ball handling influences the development of anthropometric parameters at the level of the upper limbs and especially at the level of the hand in correlation with the execution technique and with the characteristics of the practiced sport. This study included 161 student-athletes, who were male and right-handed, divided into two groups: the group of athletes practicing ball sports (G_BS) with 79 (49%) subjects and the group of athletes practicing non-ball sports (G_NBS) with 82 (51%) subjects. The anthropometric measurements of the upper limbs were performed on both sides (right and left): upper limb length, hand length, palm length, hand breadth, hand span, pinky finger, ring finger, middle finger, index finger and thumb. The most relevant symmetries, between the two groups, were recorded in the following anthropometric parameters on the right side (recording the smallest average differences): ring finger 0.412 cm and thumb 0.526 cm; for the left side, they were the ring finger 0.379 cm and thumb 0.518 cm. The biggest asymmetries between the two groups were recorded, for both the right and left sides, for the following parameters: upper limb length > 6 cm; hand span > 2 cm; and hand length > 1 cm. For all the anthropometric parameters analyzed, the athletes from the ball sports group (G_BS) recorded higher average values than those from the other group (G_NBS) for both upper limbs. The results of this study reflect the fact that handling the ball over a long period of time, starting from the beginning of practicing the sport until the age of seniority, causes changes in the anthropometric dimensions of the upper segments, causing asymmetries between the dominant (right) and the non-dominant (left) side. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry and Asymmetry in Sport Sciences)
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17 pages, 1799 KiB  
Article
Disturbance Observer-Based Tracking Controller for n-Link Flexible-Joint Robots Subject to Time-Varying State Constraints
by Zhongcai Zhang, Xueli Hu and Peng Huang
Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1773; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091773 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
This paper addresses the tracking control for an n-link flexible-joint robot system with full-state constraints and external disturbances. First, a nonlinear disturbance observer (NDO) is introduced to asymptotically estimate and suppress the influence of the related disturbances. Next, the constrained system under [...] Read more.
This paper addresses the tracking control for an n-link flexible-joint robot system with full-state constraints and external disturbances. First, a nonlinear disturbance observer (NDO) is introduced to asymptotically estimate and suppress the influence of the related disturbances. Next, the constrained system under consideration is transformed into a new unconstrained system using state-dependent function (SDF) transformations. Subsequently, a NDO-based tracking controller that combines the backstepping method and filter technique is proposed in this work. Based on stability analysis, it can be proven that the tracking error converges to a predefined compact set, which can be arbitrarily small without violating the full-state constraints. Finally, simulation results are presented to demonstrate the validity of the suggested control algorithm. Full article
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12 pages, 6497 KiB  
Article
A Modeling-Based Flammable Risk Treatment of Refrigerant Leakage from a Commercial R-290 Refrigeration Machine
by Mingkan Zhang, Vishaldeep Sharma and Praveen Cheekatamarla
Inventions 2024, 9(3), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions9030053 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Because of serious concerns about global warming, manufacturers have started phasing out high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants in commercial refrigeration equipment (e.g., R-134a). As a potential replacement, propane (R-290) is an environmentally friendly refrigerant for commercial refrigeration equipment because its GWP is [...] Read more.
Because of serious concerns about global warming, manufacturers have started phasing out high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants in commercial refrigeration equipment (e.g., R-134a). As a potential replacement, propane (R-290) is an environmentally friendly refrigerant for commercial refrigeration equipment because its GWP is only three. However, propane is flammable and is therefore classified as a Class A3 refrigerant per ASHRAE Standards, so safety is a very important consideration when propane-based equipment is designed and deployed in buildings. In the event of a refrigerant leak, flammability of the refrigerant depends on the refrigerant’s local concentration, which is highly affected by the indoor air environment, including temperature and air flow. In this study, a ventilation system attached to a commercial R-290 refrigeration device was designed to eliminate the flammability risk. Moreover, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was developed to investigate the refrigerant leak, thereby evaluating effects of the ventilation system. The CFD model can visualize the flammable zones owing to the leak. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermodynamic and Technical Analysis for Sustainability (Volume 3))
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16 pages, 15116 KiB  
Article
Impact of Hydrostatic Pressure on Molecular Structure and Dynamics of the Sodium and Chloride Ions in Portlandite Nanopores
by Run Zhang, Hongping Zhang, Meng Chen, Laibao Liu, Hongbin Tan and Youhong Tang
Materials 2024, 17(9), 2151; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17092151 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
In order to address the issues of energy depletion, more resources are being searched for in the deep sea. Therefore, research into how the deep-sea environment affects cement-based materials for underwater infrastructure is required. This paper examines the impact of ocean depth (0, [...] Read more.
In order to address the issues of energy depletion, more resources are being searched for in the deep sea. Therefore, research into how the deep-sea environment affects cement-based materials for underwater infrastructure is required. This paper examines the impact of ocean depth (0, 500, 1000, and 1500 m) on the ion interaction processes in concrete nanopores using molecular dynamics simulations. At the portlandite interface, the local structural and kinetic characteristics of ions and water molecules are examined. The findings show that the portlandite surface hydrophilicity is unaffected by increasing depth. The density profile and coordination number of ions alter as depth increases, and the diffusion speed noticeably decreases. The main cause of the ions’ reduced diffusion velocity is expected to be the low temperature. This work offers a thorough understanding of the cement hydration products’ microstructure in deep sea, which may help explain why cement-based underwater infrastructure deteriorates over time. Full article
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24 pages, 4755 KiB  
Article
Systemic LPS Administration Stimulates the Activation of Non-Neuronal Cells in an Experimental Model of Spinal Muscular Atrophy
by Eleni Karafoulidou, Evangelia Kesidou, Paschalis Theotokis, Chrystalla Konstantinou, Maria-Konstantina Nella, Iliana Michailidou, Olga Touloumi, Eleni Polyzoidou, Ilias Salamotas, Ofira Einstein, Athanasios Chatzisotiriou, Marina-Kleopatra Boziki and Nikolaos Grigoriadis
Cells 2024, 13(9), 785; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13090785 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by deficiency of the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. Although SMA is a genetic disease, environmental factors contribute to disease progression. Common pathogen components such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are considered significant contributors to inflammation [...] Read more.
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by deficiency of the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. Although SMA is a genetic disease, environmental factors contribute to disease progression. Common pathogen components such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are considered significant contributors to inflammation and have been associated with muscle atrophy, which is considered a hallmark of SMA. In this study, we used the SMNΔ7 experimental mouse model of SMA to scrutinize the effect of systemic LPS administration, a strong pro-inflammatory stimulus, on disease outcome. Systemic LPS administration promoted a reduction in SMN expression levels in CNS, peripheral lymphoid organs, and skeletal muscles. Moreover, peripheral tissues were more vulnerable to LPS-induced damage compared to CNS tissues. Furthermore, systemic LPS administration resulted in a profound increase in microglia and astrocytes with reactive phenotypes in the CNS of SMNΔ7 mice. In conclusion, we hereby show for the first time that systemic LPS administration, although it may not precipitate alterations in terms of deficits of motor functions in a mouse model of SMA, it may, however, lead to a reduction in the SMN protein expression levels in the skeletal muscles and the CNS, thus promoting synapse damage and glial cells’ reactive phenotype. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in 'Cells of the Nervous System' Section)
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16 pages, 2501 KiB  
Article
Pharmacologically Induced Accommodation Palsy and the Bioelectrical Activity of the Muscular System: A Preliminary Investigation
by Grzegorz Zieliński, Beata Pająk-Zielińska, Anna Woźniak, Michał Ginszt, Nicola Marchili, Piotr Gawda and Robert Rejdak
Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090961 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to pharmacologically induce accommodative paralysis and evaluate its effects on the bioelectrical activity of the muscular system. The study included two participant groups: those with myopia and those with normal vision (emmetropes). Electromyographic assessments were performed using [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to pharmacologically induce accommodative paralysis and evaluate its effects on the bioelectrical activity of the muscular system. The study included two participant groups: those with myopia and those with normal vision (emmetropes). Electromyographic assessments were performed using the Noraxon Ultium DTS 8-K MR 3 myo Muscle Master Edition system. The muscles analyzed in this study were the temporalis, masseter, sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, abdominal muscles, biceps brachii, and the external oblique muscles of the abdomen. It is important to acknowledge that, based on the current findings, it cannot be definitively stated that the observed effects have clinical significance, and additional studies are encouraged. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
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