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19 pages, 17761 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Target Feeding-Behavior Recognition Method for Cows Based on Improved RefineMask

by Xuwen Li, Ronghua Gao, Qifeng Li, Rong Wang, Shanghao Liu, Weiwei Huang, Liuyiyi Yang and Zhenyuan Zhuo

Sensors 2024, 24(10), 2975; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24102975 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Within the current process of large-scale dairy-cattle breeding, to address the problems of low recognition-accuracy and significant recognition-error associated with existing visual methods, we propose a method for recognizing the feeding behavior of dairy cows, one based on an improved RefineMask instance-segmentation model, [...] Read more.

Within the current process of large-scale dairy-cattle breeding, to address the problems of low recognition-accuracy and significant recognition-error associated with existing visual methods, we propose a method for recognizing the feeding behavior of dairy cows, one based on an improved RefineMask instance-segmentation model, and using high-quality detection and segmentation results to realize the recognition of the feeding behavior of dairy cows. Firstly, the input features are better extracted by incorporating the convolutional block attention module into the residual module of the feature extraction network. Secondly, an efficient channel attention module is incorporated into the neck design to achieve efficient integration of feature extraction while avoiding the surge of parameter volume computation. Subsequently, the GIoU loss function is used to increase the area of the prediction frame to optimize the convergence speed of the loss function, thus improving the regression accuracy. Finally, the logic of using mask information to recognize foraging behavior was designed, and the accurate recognition of foraging behavior was achieved according to the segmentation results of the model. We constructed, trained, and tested a cow dataset consisting of 1000 images from 50 different individual cows at peak feeding times. The method’s effectiveness, robustness, and accuracy were verified by comparing it with example segmentation algorithms such as MSRCNN, Point_Rend, Cascade_Mask, and ConvNet_V2. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the improved RefineMask algorithm in recognizing the bounding box and accurately determining the segmentation mask is 98.3%, which is higher than that of the benchmark model by 0.7 percentage points; for this, the model parameter count size was 49.96 M, which meets the practical needs of local deployment. In addition, the technologies under study performed well in a variety of scenarios and adapted to various light environments; this research can provide technical support for the analysis of the relationship between cow feeding behavior and feed intake during peak feeding periods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Smart Agriculture)

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11 pages, 1527 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biomimetic Remineralization of Artificial Caries Lesions with a Calcium Coacervate, Its Components and Self-Assembling Peptide P₁₁-4 In Vitro

by Basel Kharbot, Haitham Askar, Dominik Gruber and Sebastian Paris

Bioengineering 2024, 11(5), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11050465 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

The application of calcium coacervates (CCs) may hold promise for dental hard tissue remineralization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the infiltration of artificial enamel lesions with a CC and its single components including polyacrylic acid (PAA) compared [...] Read more.

The application of calcium coacervates (CCs) may hold promise for dental hard tissue remineralization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the infiltration of artificial enamel lesions with a CC and its single components including polyacrylic acid (PAA) compared to that of the self-assembling peptide P₁₁-4 in a pH-cycling (pHC) model. Enamel specimens were prepared from bovine incisors, partly varnished, and stored in demineralizing solution (DS; pH 4.95; 17 d) to create two enamel lesions per sample. The specimens were randomly allocated to six groups (n = 15). While one lesion per specimen served as the no-treatment control (NTC), another lesion (treatment, T) was etched (H₃PO₄, 5 s), air-dried and subsequently infiltrated for 10 min with either a CC (10 mg/mL PAA, 50 mM CaCl₂ (Ca) and 1 M K₂HPO₄ (PO₄)) (groups CC and CC + DS) or its components PAA, Ca or PO₄. As a commercial control, the self-assembling peptide P₁₁-4 (Curodont^TM Repair, Credentis, Switzerland) was tested. The specimens were cut perpendicularly to the lesions, with half serving as the baseline (BL) while the other half was exposed to either a demineralization solution for 20 d (pH 4.95; group CC + DS) or pHC for 28 d (pH 4.95, 3 h; pH 7, 21 h; all five of the other groups). The difference in integrated mineral loss between the lesions at BL and after the DS or pHC, respectively, was analyzed using transversal microradiography (ΔΔZ = ΔZ_pHC − ΔZ_baseline). Compared to the NTC, the mineral gain in the T group was significantly higher in the CC + DS, CC and PAA (p < 0.05, Wilcoxon). In all of the other groups, no significant differences between treated and untreated lesions were detected (p > 0.05). Infiltration with the CC and PAA resulted in a consistent mineral gain throughout the lesion body. The CC as well as its component PAA alone promoted the remineralization of artificial caries lesions in the tested pHC model. Infiltration with PAA further resulted in mineral gain in deeper areas of the lesion body. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tissue Engineering for Regenerative Dentistry)

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10 pages, 442 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urinary Tract Infection Predictors in Patients Undergoing Retrograde IntraRenal Surgery for Renal Stones: Does the Instrument Make the Difference?

by Francesco Prata, Loris Cacciatore, Annamaria Salerno, Francesco Tedesco, Alberto Ragusa, Salvatore Basile, Andrea Iannuzzi, Antonio Testa, Gianluigi Raso, Giuseppe D’Addurno, Marco Fantozzi, Marco Ricci, Antonio Minore, Angelo Civitella, Roberto Mario Scarpa and Rocco Papalia

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 2758; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13102758 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Background: Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) using flexible ureterorenoscopes is a cornerstone approach for renal stone removal, yet it carries a significant risk of postoperative urinary tract infection (UTI). With the emergence of single-use ureterorenoscopes, there is growing interest in their potential to mitigate [...] Read more.

Background: Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) using flexible ureterorenoscopes is a cornerstone approach for renal stone removal, yet it carries a significant risk of postoperative urinary tract infection (UTI). With the emergence of single-use ureterorenoscopes, there is growing interest in their potential to mitigate this risk. This study aimed to compare the postoperative infection rates between single-use and multi-use ureterorenoscopes in RIRS procedures and to identify predictors of postoperative UTI. Methods: Data were collected from 112 consecutive patients who underwent RIRS for renal stones between March 2022 and September 2023. Peri-operative variables including age, gender, body mass index (BMI), stone size, stone location, type of ureterorenoscope, Hounsfield Units (HU), pre-operative hydronephrosis, laboratory analysis, and operative time were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the predictors of postoperative UTI. Results: Of the cohort, 77 surgeries (68.7%) utilized multi-use ureterorenoscopes, while 35 (31.3%) utilized single-use devices. Stone diameter, number of stones, type of ureterorenoscope, and operative time were significant predictors of postoperative UTI in the univariate analysis. Multivariable logistic regression showed that operative time (OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 0.55–0.99; p = 0.03) and type of ureterorenoscope (multi-use vs. single-use) (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.08–1.2; p < 0.001) were independent predictors of postoperative UTI. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlights that multi-use ureterorenoscopes and prolonged operative time are associated with an increased risk of postoperative UTI in RIRS procedures. Careful pre-operative evaluation and meticulous patient selection are essential to minimize the occurrence of postoperative UTIs and optimize patient outcomes in RIRS for renal stones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Kidney Stones: Updates on Diagnosis and Treatment)

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11 pages, 1889 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multiplex Assays in Allergy Diagnosis: Allergy Explorer 2 versus ImmunoCAP ISAC E112i

by Hannes Nösslinger, Ewald Mair, Gertie J. Oostingh, Verena Ahlgrimm-Siess, Anna Ringauf and Roland Lang

Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14100976 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

ImmunoCAP ISAC E112i (ISAC) and Allergy Explorer 2 (ALEX²) detect specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity. Both multiplex assays contain molecular allergens and ALEX² additionally includes allergen extracts and inhibitors that block the binding of IgE to cross-reacting carbohydrate determinants (CCDs). [...] Read more.

ImmunoCAP ISAC E112i (ISAC) and Allergy Explorer 2 (ALEX²) detect specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity. Both multiplex assays contain molecular allergens and ALEX² additionally includes allergen extracts and inhibitors that block the binding of IgE to cross-reacting carbohydrate determinants (CCDs). This study aimed to compare the performance of ISAC and ALEX² by determining the IgE reactivity against allergen extracts and/or allergen components and by using qualitative, semiquantitative, and quantitative analyses of all comparable allergen components in sera from 216 participants recruited in South Tyrol/Italy. For extract sensitization in ALEX², the analysis revealed negative corresponding allergen components in 18.4% and at least one positive corresponding allergen component in 81.6% of all cases. For ISAC, the corresponding results were 23.5% and 76.5% of cases, respectively. The ALEX² CCD inhibitor eliminated CCD-positive signals detected by ISAC in 88.5% of cases. Based on sensitization values of 0.3–14.9 ISU or kU_A/L, there was good agreement between ALEX² and ISAC, although ALEX² showed higher values than ISAC. The addition of allergen-extract tests in ALEX² resulted in the detection of more sensitizations than with corresponding allergen components alone. In the range of <15 ISU or kU_A/L, ALEX² may be more effective in detecting sensitizations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics in Immunological, Allergic and Inflammatory Disorders)

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20 pages, 4928 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Further Evaluation of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli Gold Nanoparticle Vaccines Utilizing Citrobacter rodentium as the Model Organism

by Sarah Bowser, Angela Melton-Celsa, Itziar Chapartegui-González and Alfredo G. Torres

Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050508 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) is a group of pathogenic bacteria that is associated with worldwide human foodborne diarrheal illnesses and the development of hemolytic uremic syndrome, a potentially deadly condition associated with Shiga toxins (Stxs). Currently, approved vaccines for human prophylaxis against infection [...] Read more.

Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) is a group of pathogenic bacteria that is associated with worldwide human foodborne diarrheal illnesses and the development of hemolytic uremic syndrome, a potentially deadly condition associated with Shiga toxins (Stxs). Currently, approved vaccines for human prophylaxis against infection do not exist, and one barrier preventing the successful creation of EHEC vaccines is the absence of dependable animal models, including mice, which are naturally resistant to EHEC infection and do not manifest the characteristic signs of the illness. Our lab previously developed gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-based EHEC vaccines, and assessed their efficacy using Citrobacter rodentium, which is the mouse pathogen counterpart of EHEC, along with an Stx2d-producing strain that leads to more consistent disease kinetics in mice, including lethality. The purpose of this study was to continue evaluating these vaccines to increase protection. Here, we demonstrated that subcutaneous immunization of mice with AuNPs linked to the EHEC antigens EscC and intimin (Eae), either alone or simultaneously, elicits functional robust systemic humoral responses. Additionally, vaccination with both antigens together showed some efficacy against Stx2d-producing C. rodentium while AuNP-EscC successfully limited infection with non-Stx2d-producing C. rodentium. Overall, the collected results indicate that our AuNP vaccines have promising potential for preventing disease with EHEC, and that evaluation of novel vaccines using an appropriate animal model, like C. rodentium described here, could be the key to finally developing an effective EHEC vaccine that can progress into human clinical trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacterial Vaccine: Mucosal Immunity and Implications)

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20 pages, 19378 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Necessary Conditions for Running through a Flange by Using Planetary-Geared Magnetic Wheels

by Masaru Tanida, Kosuke Ono, Takehiro Shiba and Yogo Takada

Robotics 2024, 13(5), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/robotics13050072 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

To discuss and consider the necessary conditions for magnetic-wheeled robots with planetary-geared magnetic wheels, this paper provides comparing static calculations about three orientations in running a flange with real experiments. SCPREM-I, a magnetic-wheeled robot, was developed for running through a flange from the [...] Read more.

To discuss and consider the necessary conditions for magnetic-wheeled robots with planetary-geared magnetic wheels, this paper provides comparing static calculations about three orientations in running a flange with real experiments. SCPREM-I, a magnetic-wheeled robot, was developed for running through a flange from the bottom to the top. This robot has four magnetic wheels with a built-in planetary gearset. In experiments, however, the robot sometimes fails to run through a flange in three orientations. In this study, we statically analyze SCPREM-I to find the conditions necessary for running through the flange. We calculate the forces around the front and rear wheels in the three orientations. As a result, it has been found that the chassis of the SCPREM-I applies a forward force to the wheels when it runs through the flange. In addition, it has been found that the normal force of the A-Legs is balancing with the driving force of the wheels when the SCPREM-I fails to run through the flange. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Intelligent Robots and Mechatronics)

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15 pages, 727 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Victims of a Human Tragedy or “Objects” of Migrant Smuggling? Media Framing of Greece’s Deadliest Migrant Shipwreck in Pylos’ Dark Waters

by Panagiota (Naya) Kalfeli, Christina Angeli and Christos Frangonikolopoulos

Journal. Media 2024, 5(2), 537-551; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia5020036 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Refugee and migration crises has been an integral part of the continuous and successive crises that the world has been experiencing. Media has played a crucial role in shaping public opinion over migration and asylum-seeking. Within this context, this paper aims to discuss [...] Read more.

Refugee and migration crises has been an integral part of the continuous and successive crises that the world has been experiencing. Media has played a crucial role in shaping public opinion over migration and asylum-seeking. Within this context, this paper aims to discuss Greek media coverage of the migrant shipwreck off the Greek coast of Pylos, in June 2023, in which more than 600 people mostly from Syria, Egypt, and Pakistan are thought to have drowned. Based on data from a quantitative content analysis and a sample of news stories stemming from the online version of five Greek news media outlets, representing diverse political spaces, a broader set of criteria for content analysis, including the absence of refugee and migrant voice in media content, dehumanization, absence of solutions and context, among many others, was used in order to explore how the Greek media framed what has been labeled as one of the deadliest migrant shipwrecks in the Mediterranean. Results revealed (i) frames of dehumanization, (ii) insufficient reporting of injustice and discrimination stemming from (state) structures and practices, and an (iii) overemphasis on migrant smuggling. Full article

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13 pages, 1034 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Dietary Antioxidant Capacity in Midlife and Depressive Symptoms in Late Life: The Singapore Chinese Health Study

by Huiqi Li, Li-Ting Sheng, Bee Choo Tai, An Pan and Woon-Puay Koh

Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050576 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Preclinical and limited epidemiological studies suggest that oxidative stress may be implicated in geriatric depression. Our study investigated the association between midlife dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and depressive symptoms in late life among 13,712 participants in a population-based cohort of Chinese in [...] Read more.

Preclinical and limited epidemiological studies suggest that oxidative stress may be implicated in geriatric depression. Our study investigated the association between midlife dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and depressive symptoms in late life among 13,712 participants in a population-based cohort of Chinese in Singapore. At baseline (1993–1998), intake of antioxidants from diet and supplements at a mean age of 52.4 years was estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire to derive two dietary TAC indices from vitamins C and E, carotenoids and flavonoids: the Comprehensive Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) and Vitamin C Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (VCEAC). At follow-up 3 (2014–2016), when participants were at a mean age of 72.5 years, depressive symptoms were assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale, and depression, defined as having ≥5 symptoms, was presented in 3173 (23.1%) participants. Both CDAI and VCEAC indices were inversely associated with odds of depressive symptoms in a stepwise manner: the OR (95% CI) comparing the extreme quartiles was 0.73 (0.64–0.83; P_trend < 0.01) for the CDAI and 0.77 (0.68–0.87; P_trend < 0.01) for the VCEAC. Specifically, higher intakes of vitamin C, carotenoids, and flavonoids were associated with a lower likelihood of depressive symptoms. Our findings support the recommendation of an antioxidant-rich diet for the prevention of depression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Free Radicals, Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress in Aging and Age-Related Diseases)

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10 pages, 592 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Urine Light Chain/eGFR Quotient as a Tool to Rule out Cast Nephropathy in Myeloma-Associated Kidney Failure

by David Klank, Christian Löffler, Julian Friedrich, Martin Hoffmann, Peter Paschka and Raoul Bergner

Biomedicines 2024, 12(5), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12051032 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Kidney involvement with resulting kidney failure leads to increased mortality in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Cast nephropathy (CN), in particular, if left untreated, quickly leads to kidney failure requiring dialysis and has a very poor prognosis for the affected patient. The gold [...] Read more.

Kidney involvement with resulting kidney failure leads to increased mortality in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Cast nephropathy (CN), in particular, if left untreated, quickly leads to kidney failure requiring dialysis and has a very poor prognosis for the affected patient. The gold standard for diagnosing kidney involvement is a kidney biopsy. However, due to bleeding risk, this cannot be done in every patient. We recently reported that a quotient of urine light chain (LCurine) to glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool for patients with kidney involvement in MM. But this quotient has not yet been tested in everyday clinical practice. In this study, our LCurine/eGFR ratio was tested on 67 patients in two centers. Enrollment took place between January 2019 and September 2023. A total of 18 of the 67 patients had CN. With the threshold defined in our initial paper, we were able to show a sensitivity of 100% with a specificity of 85.7% for CN in patients with MM. As a result, the LCurine/eGFR quotient recognizes 100% of all CN and can therefore detect this group, which has a very poor prognosis, without the need for a kidney biopsy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nephrotic Syndrome: Pathomechanism, Diagnostics and Novel Treatment Options)

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10 pages, 261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Virtual Golf, “Exergaming”, Using Virtual Reality for Healthcare in Older Adults: Focusing on Leisure Constraints, Participation Benefits, and Continuous Participation Intention

by Chulhwan Choi, Dong-Kyu Kim and Inyup Lee

Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100962 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Exergaming, a new type of sport, combined with virtual reality, has provided new opportunities for the aging population. This study analyzed the differences in leisure constraints, participation benefits, and continuous participation intention in virtual golf (represented as an exergame) depending on the participants’ [...] Read more.

Exergaming, a new type of sport, combined with virtual reality, has provided new opportunities for the aging population. This study analyzed the differences in leisure constraints, participation benefits, and continuous participation intention in virtual golf (represented as an exergame) depending on the participants’ ages. Data collection was conducted from August 2023 to November 2023. A quantitative research design and a convenience sampling method were employed, targeting 310 regular virtual golf participants aged 20 years or older in the Republic of Korea. For comparative analysis, the survey participants were segmented into three groups: Group 1, young adults (18–35 years); Group 2, middle-aged adults (36–55 years); and Group 3, older adults (56–69 years). To compare and analyze participation behaviors in virtual golf, the dependent variables were identified: (a) leisure constraints (four factors) to limit formation and participation in leisure; (b) participation benefits (four factors) to encourage participation in leisure; and (c) continuous participation intention (single factor) to show likelihood to participate in leisure in the future. The results revealed that the young adult group showed statistically high results for costs under leisure constraints (F = 14.949, p < 0.001, η_p² = 0.089), and the older adult group reported statistically high results in physical (F = 9.346, p < 0.001, η_p² = 0.057) and mental (F = 7.249, p < 0.001, η_p² = 0.045) participation benefits and continuous participation intention (F = 6.486, p < 0.01, η_p² = 0.041). This study confirmed that virtual golf using advanced technology brings physical and mental benefits to older people based on reasonable cost and enables continuous participation in physical activity. Full article

11 pages, 4147 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Doppler Ultrasonographic Assessment of Abdominal Aortic Flow to Evaluate the Hemodynamic Relevance of Left-to-Right Shunting Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Dogs

by Anne E. van de Watering, Sophie A. M. van Rossem, Marco Baron Toaldo, Niek J. Beijerink, Alma H. Hulsman, Viktor Szatmári and Giorgia Santarelli

Animals 2024, 14(10), 1404; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101404 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

In this multicenter, prospective, observational study, abdominal aortic flow was examined with pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasound in dogs with a left-to-right shunting patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and in apparently healthy dogs. Forty-eight dogs with a PDA and 35 controls were included. In the dogs [...] Read more.

In this multicenter, prospective, observational study, abdominal aortic flow was examined with pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasound in dogs with a left-to-right shunting patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and in apparently healthy dogs. Forty-eight dogs with a PDA and 35 controls were included. In the dogs with a PDA, 37/48 had hemodynamically significant PDAs (hsPDAs) while 11/48 had non-hsPDAs, based on the presence or absence of echocardiographic signs of left-sided volume overload, respectively. In 12 dogs (4/35 control dogs, 7/37 dogs with an hsPDA and 1/11 dogs with a non-hsPDA), the diastole was too short to visualize the end-diastolic flow. Antegrade end-diastolic flow was observed in 30/35 controls and 6/11 dogs with a non-hsPDA. Absent end-diastolic flow was observed in 1/35 control dogs and 3/11 dogs with a non-hsPDA. Retrograde end-diastolic flow was observed in 30/37 dogs with an hsPDA and 1/11 dogs with a non-hsPDA. Twenty-one dogs (15 with an hsPDA and 6 with a non-hsPDA) were reassessed after PDA closure, and, in 19/21, end-diastolic flow was visualized: 17/19 showed an antegrade flow, 1/19 an absent flow and 1/19 a retrograde flow. Sensitivity and specificity of retrograde end-diastolic flow for detection of hsPDAs were 100% and 90%, respectively. In conclusion, ultrasonographic assessment of abdominal aortic flow was feasible in dogs with PDA. However, end-diastolic flow was not always visualized. The presence of a retrograde end-diastolic flow was an accurate finding for discriminating hsPDAs and non-hsPDAs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)

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11 pages, 309 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Association between Gross Motor Competence and Physical Fitness in Chilean Children Aged 4 to 6 Years

by Andrés Godoy-Cumillaf, Paola Fuentes-Merino, Frano Giakoni-Ramírez, Daniel Duclos-Bastías, José Bruneau-Chávez, Diego Vergara-Ampuero and Eugenio Merellano-Navarro

Children 2024, 11(5), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11050561 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

The preschool period is considered critical for the development of motor competence, but as far as we know, no studies have investigated the association between motor competence and physical fitness in Chilean children. The aim of this study was to analyse the association [...] Read more.

The preschool period is considered critical for the development of motor competence, but as far as we know, no studies have investigated the association between motor competence and physical fitness in Chilean children. The aim of this study was to analyse the association between gross motor competence and physical fitness, controlling for possible confounding factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 144 preschool children (56.25% girls) with an average age of 5.3 years (4 to 6 years) from the Araucanía region, Chile. Motor competence was measured using the Children’s Movement Assessment Battery, 2nd Edition (MABC-2). Regarding physical fitness, the components of cardiorespiratory fitness, lower body muscle strength and speed/agility were evaluated using the Battery to Assess FITness in PREschool (PREFIT). Partial correlation models and analysis of variance (ANCOVA) were used to assess differences in physical fitness between motor competence categories, controlling for age and body mass index. The mean fitness scores for cardiorespiratory fitness, lower body muscle strength and speed/agility components were significantly higher in children with higher gross motor competence. In terms of effect size, large values were found for the lower body strength component in model 1 for boys and in model 2 for the total samples of girls and boys. The results of this study suggest that good levels of gross motor competence are associated with better physical fitness levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Motor Competence and Physical Activity in School Children)

14 pages, 305 KiB

Open AccessReview

Stressors Inherent to Beef Cattle Management in the United States of America and the Resulting Impacts on Production Sustainability: A Review

by Toriann Summer Winton, Molly Christine Nicodemus and Kelsey Margaret Harvey

Ruminants 2024, 4(2), 227-240; https://doi.org/10.3390/ruminants4020016 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Stressors are directly related to major events throughout the beef cattle production cycle. Understanding the impact stressors have on productive outcomes is critical for the efficient implementation of management strategies. Such stressors include environmental extremes, nutritional deprivation, and common management procedures. Environmental extremes [...] Read more.

Stressors are directly related to major events throughout the beef cattle production cycle. Understanding the impact stressors have on productive outcomes is critical for the efficient implementation of management strategies. Such stressors include environmental extremes, nutritional deprivation, and common management procedures. Environmental extremes such as thermal stress can disturb gestating cows’ normal physiological responses, hindering reproductive efficiency. Thermal stress during the breeding season can affect embryo development causing a decrease in conception rates, although adjusting the scheduling of breeding activities can minimize losses. Additionally, suboptimal nutrition may negatively impact reproductive performance if management strategies including modifying seasonal grazing practices are not implemented. As gestation progresses, nutrient requirements increase; thus, without appropriate dietary management, poor calf performance, the loss of the body condition score, and reduced reproductive performance may result. While weaning is a common management procedure, this event is another major stress within the production system. Applying efficient strategies such as creep feeding or two-step weaning to mitigate weaning stress can maximize production efficiency. This review will explore in-depth the stressors associated with production events in the beef cattle industry and give insight into researched management strategies targeting these stressors that will improve the sustainability of the production system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beef Cattle Production and Management)

14 pages, 1978 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phage Biosensor for the Classification of Metastatic Urological Cancers from Urine

by Vilhelmiina Juusti, Antti Rannikko, Anu Laurila, Maria Sundvall, Pekka Hänninen and Janne Kulpakko

Life 2024, 14(5), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14050600 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Most of the annual 10 million cancer-related deaths are caused by metastatic disease. Survival rates for cancer are strongly dependent on the type of cancer and its stage at detection. Early detection remains a challenge due to the lack of reliable biomarkers and [...] Read more.

Most of the annual 10 million cancer-related deaths are caused by metastatic disease. Survival rates for cancer are strongly dependent on the type of cancer and its stage at detection. Early detection remains a challenge due to the lack of reliable biomarkers and cost-efficient screening methods. Phage biosensors can offer a solution for early detection using non-invasive liquid biopsies. Here, we report the first results of the bifunctional phage biosensor to detect metastatic urological cancers from urine. A dye-sensitized phage library was used to select metastasis-related phage binders. After selection rounds, the most promising phage candidate was used to classify metastatic cancer from controls. Additionally, we applied one chemical sensor (phenoxazine non-fluorescent dye) to classify cancer from urine. A statistical significance (p = 0.0002) was observed between metastatic and non-metastatic cancer, with sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 79%. Furthermore, the chemical sensor demonstrated significance in detecting cancer (p < 0.0001) with a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 75%. Our data suggest a new promising field for urine biomarker research, and further evaluation with prospectively collected samples is ongoing. In conclusion, we report, for the first time, the potential of a chemical- and phage-based biosensor method to detect metastatic cancer using urine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Biosensor Technology for Detection Purposes: 2nd Edition)

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11 pages, 2019 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vector-Algebra Algorithms to Draw the Curve of Alignment, the Great Ellipse, the Normal Section, and the Loxodrome

by Thomas H. Meyer

Geomatics 2024, 4(2), 138-148; https://doi.org/10.3390/geomatics4020008 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

This paper recasts four geodetic curves—the great ellipse, the normal section, the loxodrome, and the curve of alignment—into a parametric form of vector-algebra formula. These formulas allow these curves to be drawn using simple, efficient, and robust algorithms. The curve of alignment, which [...] Read more.

This paper recasts four geodetic curves—the great ellipse, the normal section, the loxodrome, and the curve of alignment—into a parametric form of vector-algebra formula. These formulas allow these curves to be drawn using simple, efficient, and robust algorithms. The curve of alignment, which seems to be quite obscure, ought not to be. Like the great ellipse and the loxodrome, and unlike the normal section, the curve of alignment from point A to point B (both on the same ellipsoid) is the same as the curve of alignment from point B to point A. The algorithm used to draw the curve of alignment is much simpler than any of the others and its shape is quite similar to that of the geodesic, which suggests it would be a practical surrogate when drawing these curves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Geocomputation and Artificial Intelligence for Mapping)

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14 pages, 2309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Whole Genome Sequence-Based Analysis of Bovine Gammaherpesvirus 4 Isolated from Bovine Abortions

by Florencia Romeo, Maximiliano Joaquín Spetter, Susana Beatriz Pereyra, Pedro Edgardo Morán, Erika Analía González Altamiranda, Enrique Leopoldo Louge Uriarte, Anselmo Carlos Odeón, Sandra Elizabeth Pérez and Andrea Elizabeth Verna

Viruses 2024, 16(5), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050739 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Bovine gammaherpesvirus 4 (BoGHV4) is a member of the Gammaherspivirinae subfamily, Rhadinovirus genus. Its natural host is the bovine, and it is prevalent among the global cattle population. Although the complete genome of BoGHV4 has been successfully sequenced, the functions of most of [...] Read more.

Bovine gammaherpesvirus 4 (BoGHV4) is a member of the Gammaherspivirinae subfamily, Rhadinovirus genus. Its natural host is the bovine, and it is prevalent among the global cattle population. Although the complete genome of BoGHV4 has been successfully sequenced, the functions of most of its genes remain unknown. Currently, only six strains of BoGHV4, all belonging to Genotype 1, have been sequenced. This is the first report of the nearly complete genome of Argentinean BoGHV4 strains isolated from clinical cases of abortion, representing the first BoGHV4 Genotype 2 and 3 genomes described in the literature. Both Argentinean isolates presented the highest nt p-distance values, indicating a greater level of divergence. Overall, the considerable diversity observed in the complete genomes and open reading frames underscores the distinctiveness of both Argentinean isolates compared to the existing BoGHV4 genomes. These findings support previous studies that categorized the Argentinean BoGHV4 strains 07-435 and 10-154 as Genotypes 3 and 2, respectively. The inclusion of these sequences represents a significant expansion to the currently limited pool of BoGHV4 genomes while providing an important basis to increase the knowledge of local isolates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Viruses)

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13 pages, 729 KiB

Open AccessReview

Hepatocyte Intrinsic Innate Antiviral Immunity against Hepatitis Delta Virus Infection: The Voices of Bona Fide Human Hepatocytes

by Yein Woo, Muyuan Ma, Masashi Okawa and Takeshi Saito

Viruses 2024, 16(5), 740; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050740 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

The pathogenesis of viral infection is attributed to two folds: intrinsic cell death pathway activation due to the viral cytopathic effect, and immune-mediated extrinsic cellular injuries. The immune system, encompassing both innate and adaptive immunity, therefore acts as a double-edged sword in viral [...] Read more.

The pathogenesis of viral infection is attributed to two folds: intrinsic cell death pathway activation due to the viral cytopathic effect, and immune-mediated extrinsic cellular injuries. The immune system, encompassing both innate and adaptive immunity, therefore acts as a double-edged sword in viral infection. Insufficient potency permits pathogens to establish lifelong persistent infection and its consequences, while excessive activation leads to organ damage beyond its mission to control viral pathogens. The innate immune response serves as the front line of defense against viral infection, which is triggered through the recognition of viral products, referred to as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), by host cell pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). The PRRs–PAMPs interaction results in the induction of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in infected cells, as well as the secretion of interferons (IFNs), to establish a tissue-wide antiviral state in an autocrine and paracrine manner. Cumulative evidence suggests significant variability in the expression patterns of PRRs, the induction potency of ISGs and IFNs, and the IFN response across different cell types and species. Hence, in our understanding of viral hepatitis pathogenesis, insights gained through hepatoma cell lines or murine-based experimental systems are uncertain in precisely recapitulating the innate antiviral response of genuine human hepatocytes. Accordingly, this review article aims to extract and summarize evidence made possible with bona fide human hepatocytes-based study tools, along with their clinical relevance and implications, as well as to identify the remaining gaps in knowledge for future investigations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Life Cycle of Hepatitis D Virus (HDV) and HDV-Like Agents)

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8 pages, 1108 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Minimally Invasive Conversion Surgery for Unresectable Gastric Cancer with Splenic Metastasis and Splenic Vein Tumor Thrombus: A Case Report

by Nobuhisa Tanioka, Michio Kuwahara, Takashi Sakai, Yuzuko Nokubo, Shigeto Shimizu, Makoto Hiroi and Toyokazu Akimori

Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(5), 2662-2669; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31050201 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

While the importance of conversion surgery has increased with the development of systemic chemotherapy for gastric cancer (GC), reports of conversion surgery for patients with GC with distant metastasis and tumor thrombus are extremely scarce, and a definitive surgical strategy has yet to [...] Read more.

While the importance of conversion surgery has increased with the development of systemic chemotherapy for gastric cancer (GC), reports of conversion surgery for patients with GC with distant metastasis and tumor thrombus are extremely scarce, and a definitive surgical strategy has yet to be established. Herein, we report a 67-year-old man with left abdominal pain referred to our hospital following a diagnosis of unresectable GC. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed advanced GC with splenic metastasis. A splenic vein tumor thrombus (SVTT) and a continuous thrombus to the main trunk of the portal vein were detected. The patient was treated with anticoagulation therapy and systemic chemotherapy comprising S-1 and oxaliplatin. One year following chemotherapy initiation, a CT scan revealed progressive disease (PD); therefore, the chemotherapy regimen was switched to ramucirumab with paclitaxel. After 10 courses of chemotherapy resulting in primary tumor and SVTT shrinkage, the patient underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) and distal pancreaticosplenectomy (DPS). He was discharged without complications and remained alive 6 months postoperatively without recurrence. In summary, the wait-and-see approach was effective in a patient with GC with splenic metastasis and SVTT, ultimately leading to an R0 resection performed via LTG and DPS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: From Physiological Mechanisms to Clinical Practice)

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8 pages, 766 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Captive Bolt Gun-Related Vascular Injury: A Single Center Experience

by Jure Pešak, Andrej Porčnik and Borut Prestor

Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14100977 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

This article investigates the clinical and radiological characteristics of captive bolt gun head injuries, a rare form of low-velocity penetrating brain injury. Eleven consecutive patients were included in the study. Vascular injuries and the rate of infection were systematically analyzed. Radiological findings reveal [...] Read more.

This article investigates the clinical and radiological characteristics of captive bolt gun head injuries, a rare form of low-velocity penetrating brain injury. Eleven consecutive patients were included in the study. Vascular injuries and the rate of infection were systematically analyzed. Radiological findings reveal common bolt trajectories in the anterior cranial fossa, with identified risk factors for a poor outcome including trajectory crossing midline, hematocephalus, and paranasal sinus involvement. Only one patient had a good outcome. Despite meticulous microsurgical techniques, this study highlights often unfavorable clinical outcomes in captive bolt gun injuries, with vascular injury identified as a potential contributing risk factor for a poor outcome. Knowledge of variant vascular tree anatomy and corresponding vascular territory is important. To avoid potential vascular injuries, a complete removal of bone fragments was not always performed and it did not increase the rate of infection, challenging the conventional wisdom advocating for the complete removal of bone fragments. These findings contribute novel insights into captive bolt gun-related injuries, paving the way for further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Neurosurgery: Clinical Diagnosis, Treatment and Prognosis)

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17 pages, 6707 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Response of Streamflow to Future Land Use and Cover Change and Climate Change in the Source Region of the Yellow River

by Hao Zhan, Jiang Zhang, Le Wang, Dongxue Yu, Min Xu and Qiuan Zhu

Water 2024, 16(10), 1332; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101332 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

This study utilizes meteorological and leaf area index (LAI) data for three shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP1–2.6, SSP2–4.5, and SSP5–8.5) from four general circulation models (GCMs) of the sixth climate model intercomparison project (CMIP6) spanning from 2015 to 2099. Employing calibrated data and incorporating [...] Read more.

This study utilizes meteorological and leaf area index (LAI) data for three shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP1–2.6, SSP2–4.5, and SSP5–8.5) from four general circulation models (GCMs) of the sixth climate model intercomparison project (CMIP6) spanning from 2015 to 2099. Employing calibrated data and incorporating future land use data under three SSPs, the distributed hydrology soil vegetation model (DHSVM) is employed to simulate streamflow in the source region of the Yellow River (SRYR). The research aims to elucidate variations in streamflow across different future scenarios and to estimate extreme streamflow events and temporal distribution changes under future land use and cover change (LUCC) and climate change scenarios. The main conclusions are as follows: The grassland status in the SRYR will significantly improve from 2020 to 2099, with noticeable increases in temperature, precipitation, and longwave radiation, alongside a pronounced decrease in wind speed. The probability of flooding events increases in the future, although the magnitude of the increase diminishes over time. Both LUCC and climate change contribute to an increase in the multi-year average streamflow in the region, with respective increments of 48.8%, 24.5%, and 18.9% under SSP1–2.6, SSP2–4.5, and SSP5–8.5. Notably, the fluctuation in streamflow is most pronounced under SSP5–8.5. In SSP1–2.6, the increase in streamflow during the near future (2020–2059) exceeds that of the distant future (2059–2099). Seasonal variations in streamflow intensify across most scenarios, leading to a more uneven distribution of streamflow throughout the year and an extension of the flood season. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Water and Climate Change)

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14 pages, 3173 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Metabolism, Disposition, Excretion, and Potential Transporter Inhibition of 7–16, an Improving 5-HT_2A Receptor Antagonist and Inverse Agonist for Parkinson’s Disease

by Zhengping Hu, Wenyan Wang, Huijie Yang, Fengjuan Zhao, Chunjie Sha, Wei Mi, Shuying Yin, Hongbo Wang, Jingwei Tian and Liang Ye

Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2184; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102184 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Compound 7–16 was designed and synthesized in our previous study and was identified as a more potential selective 5-HT_2A receptor antagonist and inverse agonist for treating Parkinson’s disease psychosis (PDP). Then, the metabolism, disposition, and excretion properties of 7–16 and its potential [...] Read more.

Compound 7–16 was designed and synthesized in our previous study and was identified as a more potential selective 5-HT_2A receptor antagonist and inverse agonist for treating Parkinson’s disease psychosis (PDP). Then, the metabolism, disposition, and excretion properties of 7–16 and its potential inhibition on transporters were investigated in this study to highlight advancements in the understanding of its therapeutic mechanisms. The results indicate that a total of 10 metabolites of 7–16/[¹⁴C]7–16 were identified and determined in five species of liver microsomes and in rats using UPLC-Q Exactive high-resolution mass spectrometry combined with radioanalysis. Metabolites formed in human liver microsomes could be covered by animal species. 7–16 is mainly metabolized through mono-oxidation (M470-2) and N-demethylation (M440), and the CYP3A4 isozyme was responsible for both metabolic reactions. Based on the excretion data in bile and urine, the absorption rate of 7–16 was at least 74.7%. 7–16 had weak inhibition on P-glycoprotein and no effect on the transport activity of OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OAT1, OAT3, and OCT2 transporters. The comprehensive pharmacokinetic properties indicate that 7–16 deserves further development as a new treatment drug for PDP. Full article

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27 pages, 8579 KiB

Open AccessReview

LED Junction Temperature Measurement: From Steady State to Transient State

by Xinyu Zhao, Honglin Gong, Lihong Zhu, Zhenyao Zheng and Yijun Lu

Sensors 2024, 24(10), 2974; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24102974 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

In this review, we meticulously analyze and consolidate various techniques used for measuring the junction temperature of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) by examining recent advancements in the field as reported in the literature. We initiate our exploration by delineating the evolution of LED technology [...] Read more.

In this review, we meticulously analyze and consolidate various techniques used for measuring the junction temperature of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) by examining recent advancements in the field as reported in the literature. We initiate our exploration by delineating the evolution of LED technology and underscore the criticality of junction temperature detection. Subsequently, we delve into two key facets of LED junction temperature assessment: steady-state and transient measurements. Beginning with an examination of innovations in steady-state junction temperature detection, we cover a spectrum of approaches ranging from traditional one-dimensional methods to more advanced three-dimensional techniques. These include micro-thermocouple, liquid crystal thermography (LCT), temperature sensitive optical parameters (TSOPs), and infrared (IR) thermography methods. We provide a comprehensive summary of the contributions made by researchers in this domain, while also elucidating the merits and demerits of each method. Transitioning to transient detection, we offer a detailed overview of various techniques such as the improved T3ster method, an enhanced one-dimensional continuous rectangular wave method (CRWM), and thermal reflection imaging. Additionally, we introduce novel methods leveraging high-speed camera technology and reflected light intensity (h-SCRLI), as well as micro high-speed transient imaging based on reflected light (μ_HSTI). Finally, we provide a critical appraisal of the advantages and limitations inherent in several transient detection methods and offer prognostications on future developments in this burgeoning field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Optical and Optomechanical Sensors)

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17 pages, 1901 KiB

Open AccessReview

Automatic Reconstruction of 3D Models from 2D Drawings: A State-of-the-Art Review

by Sofia Feist, Luís Jacques de Sousa, Luís Sanhudo and João Poças Martins

Eng 2024, 5(2), 784-800; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng5020042 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024

Abstract

Among the methods of 3D reconstruction, the automatic generation of 3D models from building documentation is one of the most accessible and inexpensive. For 30 years, researchers have proposed multiple methods to automatically generate 3D models from 2D drawings. This study compiles this [...] Read more.

Among the methods of 3D reconstruction, the automatic generation of 3D models from building documentation is one of the most accessible and inexpensive. For 30 years, researchers have proposed multiple methods to automatically generate 3D models from 2D drawings. This study compiles this research and discusses the different methods used to generate 3D models from 2D drawings. It offers a critical review of these methods, focusing on the coverage and completeness of the reconstruction process. This review allows us to identify the research gaps in the literature, and opportunities for improvement are identified for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical, Civil and Environmental Engineering)

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