The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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13 pages, 1526 KiB  
Article
Dual Semi-Interpenetrating Networks of Water-Soluble Macromolecules and Supramolecular Polymer-Like Chains: The Role of Component Interactions
by Anna L. Makarova, Alexander L. Kwiatkowski, Alexander I. Kuklin, Yuri M. Chesnokov, Olga E. Philippova and Andrey V. Shibaev
Polymers 2024, 16(10), 1430; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16101430 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Dual networks formed by entangled polymer chains and wormlike surfactant micelles have attracted increasing interest in their application as thickeners in various fields since they combine the advantages of both polymer- and surfactant-based fluids. In particular, such polymer-surfactant mixtures are of great interest [...] Read more.
Dual networks formed by entangled polymer chains and wormlike surfactant micelles have attracted increasing interest in their application as thickeners in various fields since they combine the advantages of both polymer- and surfactant-based fluids. In particular, such polymer-surfactant mixtures are of great interest as novel hydraulic fracturing fluids with enhanced properties. In this study, we demonstrated the effect of the chemical composition of an uncharged polymer poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and pH on the rheological properties and structure of its mixtures with a cationic surfactant erucyl bis(hydroxyethyl)methylammonium chloride already exploited in fracturing operations. Using a combination of several complementary techniques (rheometry, cryo-transmission electron microscopy, small-angle neutron scattering, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy), we showed that a small number of residual acetate groups (2–12.7 mol%) in PVA could significantly reduce the viscosity of the mixed system. This result was attributed to the incorporation of acetate groups in the corona of the micellar aggregates, decreasing the molecular packing parameter and thereby inducing the shortening of worm-like micelles. When these groups are removed by hydrolysis at a pH higher than 7, viscosity increases by five orders of magnitude due to the growth of worm-like micelles in length. The findings of this study create pathways for the development of dual semi-interpenetrating polymer-micellar networks, which are highly desired by the petroleum industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Networks)
21 pages, 1586 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Tilianin Based on the Novel Amorphous Nanocrystals
by Min Sun, Mengran Guo, Zhongshan He, Yaoyao Luo, Xi He, Chuansheng Huang, Yong Yuan, Yunli Zhao, Xiangrong Song and Xinchun Wang
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050654 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Tilianin (Til), a flavonoid glycoside, is well-known for its therapeutic promise in treating inflammatory disorders. Its poor water solubility and permeability limit its clinical applicability. In order to overcome these restrictions, an antisolvent precipitation and ultrasonication technique was used to prepare amorphous tilianin [...] Read more.
Tilianin (Til), a flavonoid glycoside, is well-known for its therapeutic promise in treating inflammatory disorders. Its poor water solubility and permeability limit its clinical applicability. In order to overcome these restrictions, an antisolvent precipitation and ultrasonication technique was used to prepare amorphous tilianin nanocrystals (Til NCs). We have adjusted the organic solvents, oil-to-water ratio, stabilizer composition, and ultrasonic power and time by combining single-factor and central composite design (CCD) methodologies. The features of Til NCs were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning calorimetry (DSC), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Specifically, the optimized Til NCs were needle-like with a particle size ranging from 90 to 130 nm. PVA (0.3%, w/v) and TPGS (0.08%, w/v) stabilized them well. For at least two months, these Til NCs stayed amorphous and showed an impressive stability at 4 °C and 25 °C. Remarkably, Til NCs dissolved almost 20 times faster in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) than they did in crude Til. In RAW264.7 cells, Til NCs also showed a better cellular absorption as well as safety and protective qualities. Til NCs were shown to drastically lower reactive oxygen species (ROS), TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in anti-inflammatory experiments, while increasing IL-10 levels and encouraging M1 macrophages to adopt the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Our results highlight the potential of amorphous Til NCs as a viable approach to improve Til’s anti-inflammatory effectiveness, solubility, and dissolving rate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmaceutical Technology)
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13 pages, 1878 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Stability Analysis of Subsea Tunnel Crossing Active Fault Zone: A Case Study
by Zhiqiang Li, Qiushi Liu, Shian Liu, Xueying Liu, Yongqiang Zhang, Shixiang Jia, Guoliang Song and Yuting Zhao
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050839 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The rock strength in an active fault zone is low and the surrounding rock is fractured and has poor stability, making any subsea tunnel crossing the active fault zone extremely susceptible to disasters such as tunnel collapse, sudden water ingress, and mud inrush. [...] Read more.
The rock strength in an active fault zone is low and the surrounding rock is fractured and has poor stability, making any subsea tunnel crossing the active fault zone extremely susceptible to disasters such as tunnel collapse, sudden water ingress, and mud inrush. This poses a potential threat to the construction project, making the dynamic stability analysis of a subsea tunnel crossing an active fault zone of great significance. This study takes the second subsea tunnel crossing the Cangkou Fault in Jiaozhou Bay as the engineering background and conducts numerical simulations by employing different lining stiffnesses for tunnel excavation, as well as applying dynamic loads. The dynamic stability of the subsea tunnel crossing the active fault zone is evaluated by comparing and analyzing the lining’s displacement, peak acceleration, and stress characteristics. This study explores the disaster-causing mechanisms of active fractures, determining that the hazard of orthogonal misalignment in an active fault zone is the least severe, while the hazard of opposite misalignment is the most severe. This research provides a basis for disaster prevention and mitigation in active fracture zones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Analysis of Marine Structures—Edition II)
21 pages, 1176 KiB  
Review
PET/CT Imaging of Infectious Diseases: Overview of Novel Radiopharmaceuticals
by Ferdinando F. Calabria, Giuliana Guadagnino, Andrea Cimini and Mario Leporace
Diagnostics 2024, 14(10), 1043; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14101043 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Infectious diseases represent one of the most common causes of hospital admission worldwide. The diagnostic work-up requires a complex clinical approach, including laboratory data, CT and MRI, other imaging tools, and microbiologic cultures. PET/CT with 18F-FDG can support the clinical diagnosis, allowing [...] Read more.
Infectious diseases represent one of the most common causes of hospital admission worldwide. The diagnostic work-up requires a complex clinical approach, including laboratory data, CT and MRI, other imaging tools, and microbiologic cultures. PET/CT with 18F-FDG can support the clinical diagnosis, allowing visualization of increased glucose metabolism in activated macrophages and monocytes; this tracer presents limits in differentiating between aseptic inflammation and infection. Novel PET radiopharmaceuticals have been developed to overcome these limits; 11C/18F-labeled bacterial agents, several 68Ga-labeled molecules, and white blood cells labeled with 18F-FDG are emerging PET tracers under study, showing interesting preliminary results. The best choice among these tracers can be unclear. This overview aims to discuss the most common diagnostic applications of 18F-FDG PET/CT in infectious diseases and, as a counterpoint, to describe and debate the advantages and peculiarities of the latest PET radiopharmaceuticals in the field of infectious diseases, which will probably improve the diagnosis and prognostic stratification of patients with active infectious diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
19 pages, 773 KiB  
Article
Chatbots in Airport Customer Service—Exploring Use Cases and Technology Acceptance
by Isabel Auer, Stephan Schlögl and Gundula Glowka
Future Internet 2024, 16(5), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/fi16050175 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Throughout the last decade, chatbots have gained widespread adoption across various industries, including healthcare, education, business, e-commerce, and entertainment. These types of artificial, usually cloud-based, agents have also been used in airport customer service, although there has been limited research concerning travelers’ perspectives [...] Read more.
Throughout the last decade, chatbots have gained widespread adoption across various industries, including healthcare, education, business, e-commerce, and entertainment. These types of artificial, usually cloud-based, agents have also been used in airport customer service, although there has been limited research concerning travelers’ perspectives on this rather techno-centric approach to handling inquiries. Consequently, the goal of the presented study was to tackle this research gap and explore potential use cases for chatbots at airports, as well as investigate travelers’ acceptance of said technology. We employed an extended version of the Technology Acceptance Model considering Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Trust, and Perceived Enjoyment as predictors of Behavioral Intention, with Affinity for Technology as a potential moderator. A total of n=191 travelers completed our survey. The results show that Perceived Usefulness, Trust, Perceived Ease of Use, and Perceived Enjoyment positively correlate with the Behavioral Intention to use a chatbot for airport customer service inquiries, with Perceived Usefulness showing the highest impact. Travelers’ Affinity for Technology, on the other hand, does not seem to have any significant effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Big Data and Augmented Intelligence)
23 pages, 1656 KiB  
Article
Environmental Sustainability Analysis of Land Use/Land Cover Change Using the WEI Index: Application to the Municipalities around the Doñana Area in Spain
by Jesús-María Sánchez-González, Javier Rodrigo-Ilarri, Claudia P. Romero and María-Elena Rodrigo-Clavero
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4241; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104241 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
This paper presents a novel definition of the Weighted Environmental Index (WEI) specifically adapted to integrate with the official land use and land cover (LULC) cartographic historical database employed in Andalusia. This adapted WEI framework was applied to investigate land use changes within [...] Read more.
This paper presents a novel definition of the Weighted Environmental Index (WEI) specifically adapted to integrate with the official land use and land cover (LULC) cartographic historical database employed in Andalusia. This adapted WEI framework was applied to investigate land use changes within municipalities surrounding the Doñana area (South of Spain). The analysis focused on the period 1991–2016, with a detailed examination of land use modifications in thirteen individual municipalities. The results demonstrate the WEI’s adaptability in incorporating information from diverse databases. Furthermore, they highlight the importance of integrating the analysis of WEI evolution over time. This combined approach facilitates a deeper understanding of the socio-economic and environmental drivers influencing land use changes in municipalities around the Doñana area. The findings reveal a sustained decrease in WEI values over the analyzed period. This decline is attributed to the expansion of irrigated cropland at the expense of rain-fed agriculture. Additionally, a significant increase in greenhouse surface area was observed. This intensification of agriculture has contributed to aquifer overexploitation, with potential environmental consequences for the Doñana area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pollution Prevention, Mitigation and Sustainability)
14 pages, 575 KiB  
Article
The Healthy Fatty Index Allows for Deeper Insights into the Lipid Composition of Foods of Animal Origin when Compared with the Atherogenic and Thrombogenicity Indexes
by Alessandro Dal Bosco, Massimiliano Cavallo, Laura Menchetti, Elisa Angelucci, Alice Cartoni Mancinelli, Gaetano Vaudo, Stefania Marconi, Emanuela Camilli, Francesco Galli, Cesare Castellini and Simona Mattioli
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1568; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101568 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this research was to validate the effectiveness of the Healthy Fatty Index (HFI) regarding some foods of animal origin (meat, processed, fish, milk products, and eggs) typical of the Western diet and to compare these results with two consolidated indices [...] Read more.
The aim of this research was to validate the effectiveness of the Healthy Fatty Index (HFI) regarding some foods of animal origin (meat, processed, fish, milk products, and eggs) typical of the Western diet and to compare these results with two consolidated indices (atherogenic—AI, and thrombogenic—TI) in the characterization of the nutritional features of their lipids. The fatty acids profile (% of total fatty acids and mg/100 g) of 60 foods, grouped in six subclasses, was used. The AI, TI, and HFI indexes were calculated, and the intraclass correlation coefficients and the degree of agreement were evaluated using different statistical approaches. The results demonstrated that HFI, with respect to AI and TI, seems better able to consider the complexity of the fatty acid profile and the different fat contents. HFI and AI are the two most diverse indices, and they can provide different food classifications. AI and IT exhibit only a fair agreement in regards to food classification, confirming that such indexes are always to be considered indissolubly and never separately, in contrast to the HFI, which can stand alone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)
9 pages, 1303 KiB  
Communication
Impact of Titanium Skull Plate on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: Analysis of Induced Electric Fields
by Mai Lu and Shoogo Ueno
Life 2024, 14(5), 642; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14050642 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Implanted titanium skull plates (TSPs) in cranioplasty are used to replace or reconstruct areas of the skull that have been damaged or removed due to trauma, surgery, or other medical conditions. However, the presence of a TSP in the head may influence [...] Read more.
Background: Implanted titanium skull plates (TSPs) in cranioplasty are used to replace or reconstruct areas of the skull that have been damaged or removed due to trauma, surgery, or other medical conditions. However, the presence of a TSP in the head may influence the distribution of the electric field induced during transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) procedures. The purpose of this study was to determine how the presence of TSP would interfere with TMS-induced cortical electric fields. Methods: The TMS with a figure-of-eight coil was applied to a realistic head model with TSPs. The distribution of the induced electric field in head tissues was calculated by employing the impedance method, and the results were compared with that of a normal head without TSP. Results: Simulation results show that the distribution of the induced electric field has changed greatly for the head model with TSP. The maximum value of the induced electric field in head tissues was present under one of the circular coil wings rather than in the tissues beneath the junction of the two wings of the Fo8 coil. Conclusions: The induced electric field in deep brain regions was increased for the head model with TSP, which could potentially lead to deep brain stimulation. Since the presence of metallic TSP can greatly influence the distribution of the induced electric field in TMS applications, it is important to adjust the treatment scheme when considering TMS for individuals with cranial titanium plates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art in Non-invasive Brain Stimulation)
43 pages, 6396 KiB  
Article
Distributed Hybrid Electric Propulsion Aircraft Design Based on Convex Optimized Power Allocation Management
by Lingfei Xiao, Yushuo Tan, Xiaole Zhang and Zirui Han
Aerospace 2024, 11(5), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11050408 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
In order to ensure that aircraft have medium and long-range flights, enhanced aerodynamic performance, and reduced fuel consumption, this paper presents an original Distributed Hybrid Electric Propulsion Aircraft (DHEPA) design scheme and proposes a novel power allocation management method based on convex optimization. [...] Read more.
In order to ensure that aircraft have medium and long-range flights, enhanced aerodynamic performance, and reduced fuel consumption, this paper presents an original Distributed Hybrid Electric Propulsion Aircraft (DHEPA) design scheme and proposes a novel power allocation management method based on convex optimization. Firstly, by taking the Tecnam P2006T general-purpose aircraft as a reference, key components of DHEPA are selected and modeled. Then, a power allocation management method for DHEPA is proposed on the basis of convex optimization, which takes the minimum fuel consumption as the performance index to realize the reasonable power allocation of the battery and engine, while avoiding sliding into the local optimum of allocation. Finally, momentum theory and numerical simulation methods are used to analyze the aerodynamic enhancement effect of the propeller on the wing in the DHEPA, and a dynamics method is utilized to calculate the dynamics performance of the aircraft at several important stages. The results show that, compared with the reference aircraft, the lift of the DHEPA is increased by 46%. Under typical sectors, the DHEPA has a higher rate of climb and maximum leveling off speed at cruise, and a significantly lower fuel consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aeronautics)
11 pages, 2334 KiB  
Article
Introducing Triplex Forming Oligonucleotide into Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification for Developing a Lateral Flow Biosensor for Streptococci Detection
by Wei Chang, Po-Hao Chou, Cai-Tong Wu, Jheng-Da Song, Kun-Nan Tsai and Chiuan-Chian Chiou
Biosensors 2024, 14(5), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14050257 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technology is extensively utilized for the detection of infectious diseases owing to its rapid processing and high sensitivity. Nevertheless, conventional LAMP signaling methods frequently suffer from a lack of sequence specificity. This study integrates a triplex-forming oligonucleotide (TFO) probe [...] Read more.
Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technology is extensively utilized for the detection of infectious diseases owing to its rapid processing and high sensitivity. Nevertheless, conventional LAMP signaling methods frequently suffer from a lack of sequence specificity. This study integrates a triplex-forming oligonucleotide (TFO) probe into the LAMP process to enhance sequence specificity. This TFO-LAMP technique was applied for the detection of Group B Streptococcus (GBS). The TFO probe is designed to recognize a specific DNA sequence, termed the TFO targeting sequence (TTS), within the amplified product, facilitating detection via fluorescent instrumentation or lateral flow biosensors. A screening method was developed to identify TFO sequences with high affinity to integrate TFO into LAMP, subsequently incorporating a selected TTS into an LAMP primer. In the TFO-LAMP assay, a FAM-labeled TFO is added to target the TTS. This TFO can be captured by an anti-FAM antibody on lateral flow test strips, thus creating a nucleic acid testing biosensor. The efficacy of the TFO-LAMP assay was confirmed through experiments with specimens spiked with varying concentrations of GBS, demonstrating 85% sensitivity at 300 copies and 100% sensitivity at 30,000 copies. In conclusion, this study has successfully developed a TFO-LAMP technology that offers applicability in lateral flow biosensors and potentially other biosensor platforms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Application of Novel Nucleic Acid Probe)
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21 pages, 871 KiB  
Article
A Study on the Factors Influencing the Sustainable Development of Education in the Context of COVID-19: Tencent Conference Online Platform
by Xin Wang, Xingmeng Ma, Ziyi Wang and Yanlong Guo
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4240; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104240 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The difficulties of offline education caused by the COVID-19 epidemic are attracting increasing public attention. Although international research on online education platforms is gradually deepening, the research on the influencing factors of Chinese users’ participation in these platforms shows different results due to [...] Read more.
The difficulties of offline education caused by the COVID-19 epidemic are attracting increasing public attention. Although international research on online education platforms is gradually deepening, the research on the influencing factors of Chinese users’ participation in these platforms shows different results due to regional differences. Therefore, this study adopts the technology acceptance model (TAM) as the basis to build the index system of influencing factors for the Tencent conference online education platform. The questionnaire design covered five dimensions, including external environment, platform satisfaction, and continuous use intention. An online questionnaire survey was conducted on participants in some regions of China, 320 questionnaires were distributed, and 297 valid questionnaires were collected. The data were analyzed by SPSS 26.0, and the results of Cronbach’s coefficient of 0.939 and a KMO value of 0.941 were obtained. The weight value, entropy value, and importance ranking of the factors were determined by combining hierarchical analysis and the entropy weighting method. First, the perceived ease of use is the most critical factor influencing the users’ use of online delivery platforms. Second, freedom from geographical time difference, the ease of operation, system perfection, and proficiency in use greatly influenced the participants’ use of the online lecture platform. Third, the study group suggested that the platform should be optimized in terms of convenience, stability, and freedom from geographical time difference, and provide reasonable references and lessons for future educational efforts. Full article
18 pages, 732 KiB  
Review
Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein-Antibody Associated Disease: An Updated Review of the Clinical Spectrum, Pathogenetic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Management
by Panagiotis Gklinos and Ruth Dobson
Antibodies 2024, 13(2), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/antib13020043 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Clinical syndromes associated with antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) are now recognized as a distinct neurological disease entity, and are gaining increasing attention. The pathogenic mechanisms underlying MOG-antibody disease (MOGAD) remain incompletely understood. Case series, facilitated by registries, and observational studies over [...] Read more.
Clinical syndromes associated with antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) are now recognized as a distinct neurological disease entity, and are gaining increasing attention. The pathogenic mechanisms underlying MOG-antibody disease (MOGAD) remain incompletely understood. Case series, facilitated by registries, and observational studies over the past few years have shed increasing light on the clinical aspects and therapeutic approaches of MOGAD. MOGAD may manifest with a variety of clinical syndromes, including acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), autoimmune encephalitis, optic neuritis (ON) and transverse myelitis (TM). MOGAD can be either monophasic or relapsing. This review aims to provide a comprehensive updated description of the clinical spectrum, paraclinical features, and prognosis of MOG-antibody disease, as well as summarize its therapeutic considerations. Randomized clinical trials, standardized diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines are the steps forward. Full article
11 pages, 7348 KiB  
Article
A Proximity-Based Approach for the Identification of Fallen Species of Street Trees during Strong Wind Events in Lisbon
by Flávio Henrique Mendes, Felipe Coelho de Souza Petean, Ezequiel Luís Tavares Correia and António Manuel Saraiva Lopes
Land 2024, 13(5), 708; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050708 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The benefits of urban trees are very well known, but they can fall and cause damage, putting people’s lives at risk. There are few studies on the vulnerability of species to falling. In Lisbon (Portugal), fallen trees have been recorded since 1990 without, [...] Read more.
The benefits of urban trees are very well known, but they can fall and cause damage, putting people’s lives at risk. There are few studies on the vulnerability of species to falling. In Lisbon (Portugal), fallen trees have been recorded since 1990 without, however, the identification of the species, knowledge of which is fundamental for improving their management. This study aimed to identify the tree species most vulnerable to falling in Lisbon through a proximity-based approach of known species, since the city has 47,713 inventoried trees, of which only 26,595 (55.7%) were identified. Four criteria were designed to presume the species: (i) the tree must be within 15 m from the street median axis; (ii) at least three individuals within 30 m from the occurrence must belong to the same species; (iii) the surrounding species must be representative in the street (>50%); and (iv) visual identification of avenue medians. Through this approach, considering 3767 fallen trees, it was possible to identify 736 cases, representing 19.5% of all occurrences throughout the studied time and representing 43 different species. Species like Morus nigra L., Tipuana tipu (Benth.) Kuntze, Liriodendron tulipifera L., Prunus cerasifera Ehrh., and Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm. were most vulnerable. Additionally, in 57.7% of cases (425 fallen trees), the wind speed 12-h before the occurrence was greater than 7 m s−1. This research will provide important data for urban planners seeking to maximize the ecosystem services of urban trees. Full article
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15 pages, 1060 KiB  
Article
Individually Cultured Bovine Zygotes Successfully Develop to the Blastocyst Stage in an Extremely Confined Environment
by Angela Travaglione, Andrea Candela, Vincenza De Gregorio, Vincenzo Genovese, Mario Cimmino, Vincenza Barbato, Riccardo Talevi and Roberto Gualtieri
Cells 2024, 13(10), 868; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13100868 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The possibility of detecting the developmental competence of individually cultured embryos through analysis of spent media is a major current trend in an ART setting. However, individual embryo culture is detrimental compared with high-density group culture due to the reduced concentration of putative [...] Read more.
The possibility of detecting the developmental competence of individually cultured embryos through analysis of spent media is a major current trend in an ART setting. However, individual embryo culture is detrimental compared with high-density group culture due to the reduced concentration of putative embryotropins. The main aim of this study was to identify an individual culture system that is not detrimental over high-density group culture in the bovine model. Blastocyst rates and competence were investigated in a conventional (GC) group, semi-confined group (MG), and individual culture (MS) in a commercial microwell device. Main findings showed that: (1) individual embryos can be continuously cultured for 7 days in ~70 nL microwells (MS) without detrimental effects compared with the GC and MG; (2) MS and MG blastocysts had a reduced number of TUNEL-positive cells compared to GC blastocysts; (3) though blastocyst mean cell numbers, mitochondrial activity, and lipid content were not different among the three culture conditions, MS blastocysts had a higher frequency of small-sized lipid droplets and a reduced mean droplet diameter compared with GC and MG blastocysts. Overall, findings open the way to optimize the development and competence of single embryos in an ART setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Reproductive Cells and Development)
14 pages, 1237 KiB  
Article
Soluble Fluorinated Cardo Copolyimide as an Effective Additive to Photopolymerizable Compositions Based on Di(meth)acrylates: Application for Highly Thermostable Primary Protective Coating of Silica Optical Fiber
by Dmitriy A. Sapozhnikov, Olga A. Melnik, Alexander V. Chuchalov, Roman S. Kovylin, Sergey A. Chesnokov, Dmitriy A. Khanin, Galina G. Nikiforova, Alexey F. Kosolapov, Sergey L. Semjonov and Yakov S. Vygodskii
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5494; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105494 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The development of photocurable compositions is in high demand for the manufacture of functional materials for electronics, optics, medicine, energy, etc. The properties of the final photo-cured material are primarily determined by the initial mixture, which needs to be tuned for each application. [...] Read more.
The development of photocurable compositions is in high demand for the manufacture of functional materials for electronics, optics, medicine, energy, etc. The properties of the final photo-cured material are primarily determined by the initial mixture, which needs to be tuned for each application. In this study we propose to use simple systems based on di(meth)acrylate, polyimide and photoinitiator for the preparation of new photo-curable compositions. It was established that a fluorinated cardo copolyimide (FCPI) based on 2,2-bis-(3,4-dicarboxydiphenyl)hexafluoropropane dianhydride, 9,9-bis-(4-aminophenyl)fluorene and 2,2-bis-(4-aminophenyl)hexafluoropropane (1.00:0.75:0.25 mol) has excellent solubility in di(met)acrylates. This made it possible to prepare solutions of FCPI in such monomers, to study the effect of FCPI on the kinetics of their photopolymerization in situ and the properties of the resulting polymers. According to the obtained data, the solutions of FCPI (23 wt.%) in 1,4-butanediol diacrylate (BDDA) and FCPI (15 wt.%) in tetraethylene glycol diacrylate were tested for the formation of the primary protective coatings of the silica optical fibers. It was found that the new coating of poly(BDDA–FCPI23%) can withstand prolonged annealing at 200 °C (72 h), which is comparable or superior to the known most thermally stable photo-curable coatings. The proposed approach can be applied to obtain other functional materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis, Properties and Applications of Polymers)
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20 pages, 2023 KiB  
Article
Critical Threshold-Based Heat Damage Evolution Monitoring to Tea Plants with Remotely Sensed LST over Mainland China
by Peijuan Wang, Xin Li, Junxian Tang, Dingrong Wu, Lifeng Pang and Yuanda Zhang
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(10), 1784; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16101784 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Tea plants (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze) are a cash crop that thrive under warm and moist conditions. However, tea plants are becoming increasingly vulnerable to heat damage (HD) during summer growing seasons due to global climate warming. Because China ranks first in [...] Read more.
Tea plants (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze) are a cash crop that thrive under warm and moist conditions. However, tea plants are becoming increasingly vulnerable to heat damage (HD) during summer growing seasons due to global climate warming. Because China ranks first in the world in both harvested tea area and total tea production, monitoring and tracking HD to tea plants in a timely manner has become a significant and urgent task for scientists and tea producers in China. In this study, the spatiotemporal characteristics of HD evolution were analyzed, and a tracking method using HD LST-weighted geographical centroids was constructed based on HD pixels identified by the critical LST threshold and daytime MYD11A1 products over the major tea planting regions of mainland China from two typical HD years (2013 and 2022). Results showed that the average number of HD days in 2022 was five more than in 2013. Daily HD extent increased at a rate of 0.66% per day in 2022, which was faster than that in 2013 with a rate of 0.21% per day. In two typical HD years, the tea regions with the greatest HD extent were concentrated south of the Yangtze River (SYR), with average HD pixel ratios of greater than 50%, then north of the Yangtze River (NYR) and southwest China (SWC), with average HD pixel ratios of around 40%. The regions with the least HD extent were in South China (SC), where the HD ratios were less than 40%. The HD LST-weighted geographical centroid trajectories showed that HD to tea plants in 2013 initially moved from southwest to northeast, and then moved west. In 2022, HD moved from northeast to west and south. Daily HD centroids were mainly concentrated at the conjunction of SYR, SWC, and SC in 2013, and in northern SWC in 2022, where they were near to the centroid of the tea planting gardens. The findings in this study confirmed that monitoring HD evolution of tea plants over a large spatial extent based on reconstructed remotely sensed LST values and critical threshold was an effective method benefiting from available MODIS LST products. Moreover, this method can identify and track the spatial distribution characteristics of HD to tea plants in a timely manner, and it will therefore be helpful for taking effective preventative measures to mitigate economic losses resulting from HD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing in Hazards Monitoring and Risk Assessment)
26 pages, 13608 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Residential Construction Site Selection in Mountainous Regions Using Geospatial Data and eXplainable AI
by Dhafer Alqahtani, Javed Mallick, Abdulmohsen M. Alqahtani and Swapan Talukdar
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4235; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104235 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The rapid urbanization of Abha and its surrounding cities in Saudi Arabia’s mountainous regions poses challenges for sustainable and secure development. This study aimed to identify suitable sites for eco-friendly and safe building complexes amidst complex geophysical, geoecological, and socio-economic factors, integrating natural [...] Read more.
The rapid urbanization of Abha and its surrounding cities in Saudi Arabia’s mountainous regions poses challenges for sustainable and secure development. This study aimed to identify suitable sites for eco-friendly and safe building complexes amidst complex geophysical, geoecological, and socio-economic factors, integrating natural hazards assessment and risk management. Employing the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (Fuzzy-AHP), the study constructed a suitability model incorporating sixteen parameters. Additionally, a Deep Neural Network (DNN) based on eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) conducted sensitivity analyses to assess the parameters’ influence on optimal location decision making. The results reveal slope as the most crucial parameter (22.90%), followed by altitude and land use/land cover (13.24%), emphasizing topography and environmental considerations. Drainage density (11.36%) and rainfall patterns (9.15%) are also significant for flood defense and water management. Only 12.21% of the study area is deemed “highly suitable”, with “no-build zones” designated for safety and environmental protection. DNN-based XAI demonstrates the positive impact of variables like the NDVI and municipal solid waste generation on site selection, informing waste management and ecological preservation strategies. This integrated methodology provides actionable insights for sustainable and safe residential development in Abha, aiding informed decision making and balancing urban expansion with environmental conservation and hazard risk reduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainability in Geographic Science)
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12 pages, 260 KiB  
Article
Canine Oral Melanoma: Questioning the Existing Information through a Series of Clinical Cases
by Carmen G. Pérez-Santana, Ana A. Jiménez-Alonso, Francisco Rodríguez-Esparragón, Sara Cazorla-Rivero and Enrique Rodríguez Grau-Bassas
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050226 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Twelve dogs with oral malignant melanomas (MM) were evaluated in this study, with demographic details indicating a balanced distribution of gender, age, and weight among various breeds. Tumor locations varied, with diverse surgical procedures being performed, including mandibulectomies and maxillectomies. Lymphadenectomies were conducted, [...] Read more.
Twelve dogs with oral malignant melanomas (MM) were evaluated in this study, with demographic details indicating a balanced distribution of gender, age, and weight among various breeds. Tumor locations varied, with diverse surgical procedures being performed, including mandibulectomies and maxillectomies. Lymphadenectomies were conducted, revealing a 16.66% metastatic rate in regional lymph nodes. At the time of surgery, clinical staging identified stages I, II, and III, with most cases having non-infiltrated margins and a high mitotic index. Follow-up revealed local recurrences and metastases, prompting additional surgeries and affecting survival rates. This study reports varying outcomes, with some dogs completing one year without recurrence, while others experienced progressive disease, leading to six oral melanoma-related deaths. The characteristics of melanotic melanoma and amelanotic melanoma are observed in order to study differences between them, the degree of aggressiveness, the mortality rate and the possibility of future therapeutic targets. Although high pigmentation has been correlated with a better outcome, we could not find any significant correlation between survival and achromia. Oral benign melanomas might exist, and this could justify variabilities between stage and survival; however, carefulness is required due to their unpredictable behavior. The findings underscore the complexity of oral melanoma cases and highlight the need for further research on effective management strategies. Full article
18 pages, 1940 KiB  
Article
Alcohol Exposure and Disease Associations: A Mendelian Randomization and Meta-Analysis on Weekly Consumption and Problematic Drinking
by Mengyao Li, Xuying Zhang, Kailei Chen, Yang Miao, Yaxin Xu, Yishuo Sun, Mengxian Jiang, Mengcao Liu, Yan Gao, Xiaoxia Xue and Xuelian Li
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1517; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101517 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Alcohol consumption significantly impacts disease burden and has been linked to various diseases in observational studies. However, comprehensive meta-analyses using Mendelian randomization (MR) to examine drinking patterns are limited. We aimed to evaluate the health risks of alcohol use by integrating findings from [...] Read more.
Alcohol consumption significantly impacts disease burden and has been linked to various diseases in observational studies. However, comprehensive meta-analyses using Mendelian randomization (MR) to examine drinking patterns are limited. We aimed to evaluate the health risks of alcohol use by integrating findings from MR studies. A thorough search was conducted for MR studies focused on alcohol exposure. We utilized two sets of instrumental variables—alcohol consumption and problematic alcohol use—and summary statistics from the FinnGen consortium R9 release to perform de novo MR analyses. Our meta-analysis encompassed 64 published and 151 de novo MR analyses across 76 distinct primary outcomes. Results show that a genetic predisposition to alcohol consumption, independent of smoking, significantly correlates with a decreased risk of Parkinson’s disease, prostate hyperplasia, and rheumatoid arthritis. It was also associated with an increased risk of chronic pancreatitis, colorectal cancer, and head and neck cancers. Additionally, a genetic predisposition to problematic alcohol use is strongly associated with increased risks of alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis, both acute and chronic pancreatitis, and pneumonia. Evidence from our MR study supports the notion that alcohol consumption and problematic alcohol use are causally associated with a range of diseases, predominantly by increasing the risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
17 pages, 1043 KiB  
Article
Use of Botanical Ingredients: Nice Opportunities to Avoid Premature Oxidation of NABLABs by Increasing Their ORAC Values Strongly Impacted by Dealcoholization or Pasteurization
by Margaux Simon, Hubert Kageruka and Sonia Collin
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2370; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102370 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Even when fresh, non-alcoholic, and low-alcoholic beers (NABLABs) exhibit significant staling defects due to premature oxidation. In this study, the antioxidant power of eleven fresh commercial NABLABs was assessed by means of three different assays: the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), the linoleic [...] Read more.
Even when fresh, non-alcoholic, and low-alcoholic beers (NABLABs) exhibit significant staling defects due to premature oxidation. In this study, the antioxidant power of eleven fresh commercial NABLABs was assessed by means of three different assays: the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), the linoleic acid-induced oxidation (TINH), and the indicator time test (ITT). Only the first two assays, both involving radicalar degradations initiated by AAPH, were found to correlate with each other. NABLABs displayed lower ORAC values than conventional beers (on average, 6127 μmol eq. Trolox/L), except for three samples made with special-colored malts or dry-hopped. Dealcoholization was the step with the greatest impact on the ORAC value (up to a 95% loss) and on flavan-3-ols, sotolon, and polyfunctional thiols, while pasteurization strongly affected color, TBA, and Strecker aldehydes. ORAC assays applied to hop, alternative cereals, and various botanical ingredients indicated that mashing with red sorghum, dry hopping/spicing, and wood maturation could bring the antioxidant power of a NABLAB close to those of conventional beers. With an ORAC value not reached by any other tested botanical ingredient (5234 µmol eq. Trolox/g), African Vernonia amygdalina leaves (traditionally used for Rwandan Ikigage beers) emerged here as the best candidate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Flavours and Fragrances)
9 pages, 295 KiB  
Communication
Sleep Quality in Greek Adolescent Swimmers
by Vasileios T. Stavrou, George D. Vavougios, Glykeria Tsirimona, Zoe Daniil and Konstantinos I. Gourgoulianis
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(2), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9020087 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between sleep quality and functional indices, swimming distance and gender in adolescent competitive swimmers. Forty-eight adolescent swimmers (boys, n = 22, 15.7 ± 1.0 years and girls, n = 26, 15.1 ± 0.8 [...] Read more.
The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between sleep quality and functional indices, swimming distance and gender in adolescent competitive swimmers. Forty-eight adolescent swimmers (boys, n = 22, 15.7 ± 1.0 years and girls, n = 26, 15.1 ± 0.8 years) were included in our study. They were assessed for handgrip strength, respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary function, answered a Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index questionnaire (PSQI), and recorded their anthropometric and morphological characteristics and training load for the last four weeks. The results showed differences between swimming distance and chest circumference difference, between maximal inhalation and exhalation (Δchest) (p = 0.033), PSQI score (p < 0.001), and sleep quality domains for “cannot breathe comfortably” (p = 0.037) and “have pain” (p = 0.003). Binary logistic regression (chi-square = 37.457, p = 0.001) showed that the variables Δchest (p = 0.038, 95% CI: 1.05–6.07) and PSQI score (p = 0.048, 95% CI: 0.1–1.07) remained independent predictors of the swim distance groups. Girls had a lower percentage of predicted values for the maximal inspiratory pressure (p < 0.001), maximal expiratory pressure (p = 0.027), forced expiratory volume within the first second (p = 0.026), forced vital capacity (p = 0.008) and sleep quality domains for “cough or snore loudly” (p = 0.032) compared to boys. A regression analysis showed that the sleep quality score was explained by the six independent variables: respiratory muscle strength (t = 2.177, β = 0.164, p = 0.035), Δchest (t = −2.353, β = −0.17, p = 0.023), distance (t = −5.962, β = −0.475, p < 0.001), total body water (t = −7.466, β = −0.687, p < 0.001), lean body mass (t = −3.120, β = −0.434, p = 0.003), and handgrip (t = 7.752, β = 1.136, p < 0.001). Our findings demonstrate that sleep quality in adolescent swimmers is a multifactorial result of morphometric characteristics, strength and respiratory function. Full article
23 pages, 5800 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Missing Continuous Blood Glucose Samples on Machine Learning Models for Predicting Postprandial Hypoglycemia: An Experimental Analysis
by Najib Ur Rehman, Ivan Contreras, Aleix Beneyto and Josep Vehi
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1567; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101567 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigates how missing data samples in continuous blood glucose data affect the prediction of postprandial hypoglycemia, which is crucial for diabetes management. We analyzed the impact of missing samples at different times before meals using two datasets: virtual patient data and [...] Read more.
This study investigates how missing data samples in continuous blood glucose data affect the prediction of postprandial hypoglycemia, which is crucial for diabetes management. We analyzed the impact of missing samples at different times before meals using two datasets: virtual patient data and real patient data. The study uses six commonly used machine learning models under varying conditions of missing samples, including custom and random patterns reflective of device failures and arbitrary data loss, with different levels of data removal before mealtimes. Additionally, the study explored different interpolation techniques to counter the effects of missing data samples. The research shows that missing samples generally reduce the model performance, but random forest is more robust to missing samples. The study concludes that the adverse effects of missing samples can be mitigated by leveraging complementary and informative non-point features. Consequently, our research highlights the importance of strategically handling missing data, selecting appropriate machine learning models, and considering feature types to enhance the performance of postprandial hypoglycemia predictions, thereby improving diabetes management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence Solutions in Healthcare)
17 pages, 797 KiB  
Review
Animal Feed Formulation—Connecting Technologies to Build a Resilient and Sustainable System
by Oreofeoluwa Akintan, Kifle G. Gebremedhin and Daniel Dooyum Uyeh
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1497; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101497 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The unprecedented challenges presented by the increase in global population have placed substantial demands on the livestock industry for human nutrition, necessitating heightened animal productivity and leading to an increased demand for natural resources to produce animal feed. Feed producers are leading the [...] Read more.
The unprecedented challenges presented by the increase in global population have placed substantial demands on the livestock industry for human nutrition, necessitating heightened animal productivity and leading to an increased demand for natural resources to produce animal feed. Feed producers are leading the charge, consistently refining formulations to adapt to the evolving needs of livestock, driven in part by the cost of over 50% associated with feed production. This paper critically analyses the pressing issues within feed formulation, addressing the requirement for environmentally sustainable practices amidst the challenges of climate change. The exploration extends to how advanced decision support tools can enhance formulation techniques and profitability and contribute to environmental sustainability. Through an in-depth review of current feed formulation technologies, encompassing their applications and limitations, this study aims to enhance the existing knowledge base. Additionally, we examined future trends, highlighting the essential role of connecting technologies to establish a resilient and sustainable system. The emphasis is on the potential of formulation techniques to positively impact the environment and enhance the overall quality and performance of the animals. This paper provides actionable insights to improve animal production by examining feed formulation models and decision support tools. The anticipated outcome is a more informed and sustainable decision-making process, addressing the multifaceted challenges confronted by the livestock industry and making contributions to global efforts in climate change mitigation and environmental stewardship in animal production agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

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