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15 pages, 2664 KiB  
Article
Differential Response of Human Dendritic Cells upon Stimulation with Encapsulated or Non-Encapsulated Isogenic Strains of Porphyromonas gingivalis
by Samanta Melgar-Rodríguez, Alan Polanco, Jearitza Ríos-Muñoz, Michelle García, Alfredo Sierra-Cristancho, Luis González-Osuna, Jaime Díaz-Zúñiga, Paola Carvajal, Rolando Vernal and Denisse Bravo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4510; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084510 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
During periodontitis, the extracellular capsule of Porphyromonas gingivalis favors alveolar bone loss by inducing Th1 and Th17 patterns of lymphocyte response in the infected periodontium. Dendritic cells recognize bacterial antigens and present them to T lymphocytes, defining their activation and polarization. Thus, dendritic [...] Read more.
During periodontitis, the extracellular capsule of Porphyromonas gingivalis favors alveolar bone loss by inducing Th1 and Th17 patterns of lymphocyte response in the infected periodontium. Dendritic cells recognize bacterial antigens and present them to T lymphocytes, defining their activation and polarization. Thus, dendritic cells could be involved in the Th1 and Th17 response induced against the P. gingivalis capsule. Herein, monocyte-derived dendritic cells were obtained from healthy individuals and then stimulated with different encapsulated strains of P. gingivalis or two non-encapsulated isogenic mutants. Dendritic cell differentiation and maturation were analyzed by flow cytometry. The mRNA expression levels for distinct Th1-, Th17-, or T-regulatory-related cytokines and transcription factors, as well as TLR2 and TLR4, were assessed by qPCR. In addition, the production of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-23, and TNF-α was analyzed by ELISA. The encapsulated strains and non-encapsulated mutants of P. gingivalis induced dendritic cell maturation to a similar extent; however, the pattern of dendritic cell response was different. In particular, the encapsulated strains of P. gingivalis induced higher expression of IRF4 and NOTCH2 and production of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-23, and TNF-α compared with the non-encapsulated mutants, and thus, they showed an increased capacity to trigger Th1 and Th17-type responses in human dendritic cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular Immunology in Chile, 2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 2808 KiB  
Article
Taurine-Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes as Electrode Catalysts for Improvement in the Performance of Vanadium Redox Flow Battery
by Lian Wei, Tao Liu, Yimin Zhang, Hong Liu and Ling Ge
Catalysts 2024, 14(4), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14040281 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
The vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) is a highly favorable tool for storing renewable energy, and the catalytic activity of electrode materials is crucial for its development. Taurine-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were prepared with the aim of augmenting the redox process of vanadium [...] Read more.
The vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) is a highly favorable tool for storing renewable energy, and the catalytic activity of electrode materials is crucial for its development. Taurine-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were prepared with the aim of augmenting the redox process of vanadium ions and enhancing the efficiency of the VRFB. Sulfonated CNTs were synthesized through a simple modification process in a taurine solution and used as electrocatalysts for redox reactions involving VO2+/VO2+ and V2+/V3+. The SO3H-CNTs modified at 60 °C for 2 h exhibit the best electrocatalytic activity, showing higher redox peak current values compared to pristine carboxylated CNTs (COOH-CNTs). Sulfonic acid groups added to the surface of CNTs increase active sites for redox reactions and act as carriers for mass transfer and bridges for charge transfer, accelerating the rate of the electrode reactions. A battery consisting of SO3H-CNTs as catalysts demonstrates the outstanding charge–discharge performance at a current density of 300 mA∙cm−2. This configuration displays voltage and energy efficiencies of 81.46% and 78.83%, respectively, representing enhancements of 6.15% and 6.12% compared to that equipped with conventional graphite felts (75.31%, 72.71%). This study illustrates that taurine-functionalized carbon nanotubes serve as an efficient and promising catalyst for both the anode and cathode, leading to the improved performance of the VRFB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrocatalysis)
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13 pages, 720 KiB  
Article
High Accuracy Localization Scheme Using 1-Bit Side Information: Achievability from a GDoP Perspective
by Suah Park, Jiyoung Hwang, Ilmu Byun and Sang Won Choi
Electronics 2024, 13(8), 1574; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13081574 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we provide a novel methodology for high-precision positioning that utilizes 1-bit additional information, which applies to various positioning techniques. The proposed approach leverages binary information to indicate if a user is within a specified space of interest and refines the [...] Read more.
In this paper, we provide a novel methodology for high-precision positioning that utilizes 1-bit additional information, which applies to various positioning techniques. The proposed approach leverages binary information to indicate if a user is within a specified space of interest and refines the estimated location information outside this area. By matching the estimated locations outside the area of interest with the valid location information within, this methodology corrects the positional data obtained through any arbitrary positioning technique, aligning the estimated positions with the intended spatial boundaries. Performance analysis metrics, such as Average Positioning Error (APE) and Cumulative Distribution Function for positioning coverage, were employed to assess the effectiveness of the proposed methods. Numerical simulations demonstrate how the proposed method enhances the averaged positioning accuracy, significantly outperforming the conventional time of arrival method. Furthermore, the proposed positioning correction methodology demonstrates validated feasibility applicable to an arbitrary existing positioning method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 5G and 6G Wireless Systems: Challenges, Insights, and Opportunities)
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14 pages, 689 KiB  
Article
Teachers’ Emotional Intelligence and Organizational Commitment: A Moderated Mediation Model of Teachers’ Psychological Well-Being and Principal Transformational Leadership
by Mingwei Li, Feifei Liu and Chuanli Yang
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040345 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Given the global challenge of increasing teacher attrition and turnover rates, the exploration of factors and mechanisms that improve teachers’ organizational commitment has become a pivotal topic in educational research. In this context, the present study examines the influence of teachers’ emotional intelligence [...] Read more.
Given the global challenge of increasing teacher attrition and turnover rates, the exploration of factors and mechanisms that improve teachers’ organizational commitment has become a pivotal topic in educational research. In this context, the present study examines the influence of teachers’ emotional intelligence on their organizational commitment, with a specific inquiry into the mediating role of teachers’ psychological well-being and the moderating role of principal transformational leadership, as informed by the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions and the trait activation theory. We verified this study’s hypotheses based on 768 valid questionnaires collected from Chinese primary and secondary school teachers. The results reveal that teachers’ emotional intelligence can predict their organizational commitment both directly and indirectly through the mediating role of psychological well-being. Additionally, principal transformational leadership amplifies the positive effect of teachers’ emotional intelligence on psychological well-being and, subsequently, organizational commitment. These findings theoretically deepen our understanding of the psychological pathways and the boundary conditions linking teachers’ emotional intelligence to their organizational commitment, while also offering valuable practical implications for building a stable and effective teaching workforce. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Behaviors in Educational Settings—2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 6766 KiB  
Article
Electromagnetic Acoustic Detection of Pipe Defects Hidden above T-Type Support Structures with Circumferential Shear Horizontal Guided Wave
by Xingjun Zhang, Jinjie Zhou, Yang Hu, Yao Liu and Xingquan Shen
Micromachines 2024, 15(4), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15040550 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
When pipe defects are generated above the T-type support structure location, it is difficult to distinguish the reflection signals caused by the weld bead at the support structure from the reflection echoes of pipe defects. Therefore, in order to effectively detect pipe defects, [...] Read more.
When pipe defects are generated above the T-type support structure location, it is difficult to distinguish the reflection signals caused by the weld bead at the support structure from the reflection echoes of pipe defects. Therefore, in order to effectively detect pipe defects, a waveform subtraction method with a circumferential shear horizontal (CSH) guided wave is proposed, which is generated by an electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT). First, a CSH0 guided wave mode with a center frequency of 500 kHz is selected to establish a three-dimensional model with and without pipe defects above the support structure. Following this, the influence of different widths of support structures on the echo signal is compared. Moreover, simulation and experimental results are used to compare the influence of different welding qualities on the detection results. Finally, the waveform subtraction method is used to process the simulation and experimental signals, and the influence of pipe defects with different lengths and depths is discussed. The results show that the non-through crack defect of 5 mm × 1 mm (length × depth) can be detected. The results show that this method can effectively detect the cracks by eliminating the influence of the weld echo, which provides a new concept for the detection of the defect above the support structure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acoustic Transducers and Their Applications)
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14 pages, 4213 KiB  
Article
Modulating the Nature of Ionizable Lipids and Number of Layers in Hyaluronan-Decorated Lipid Nanoparticles for In Vitro Delivery of RNAi
by Victor Passos Gibson, Houda Tahiri, Claudia Gilbert, Chun Yang, Quoc Thang Phan, Xavier Banquy and Pierre Hardy
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(4), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16040563 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have established their position as nonviral vectors for gene therapy. Tremendous efforts have been made to modulate the properties of LNPs to unleash their full clinical potential. Among the strategies being pursued, the layer-by-layer (LbL) technique has gained considerable attention [...] Read more.
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have established their position as nonviral vectors for gene therapy. Tremendous efforts have been made to modulate the properties of LNPs to unleash their full clinical potential. Among the strategies being pursued, the layer-by-layer (LbL) technique has gained considerable attention in the biomedical field. Illuminated by our previous work, here we investigate if the LbL approach could be used to modify the LNP cores formulated with three different ionizable lipids: DODMA, MC3, and DODAP. Additionally, we wondered if more than three layers could be loaded onto LNPs without disrupting their gene transfection ability. Taking advantage of physicochemical analysis, as well as uptake and gene silencing studies, we demonstrate the feasibility of modifying the surface of LNPs with the LbL assembly. Precisely, we successfully modified three different LNPs using the layer-by-layer strategy which abrogated luciferase activity in vitro. Additionally, we constructed a 5×-layered HA-LNP containing the MC3 ionizable lipid which outperformed the 3×-layered counterpart in transfecting miRNA-181-5p to the pediatric GBM cell line, as a proof-of-concept in vitro experiment. The method used herein has been proven reproducible, of easy modification to adapt to different ionizable lipid-containing LNPs, and holds great potential for the translation of RNA-based therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Nano-Systems for Imaging, Diagnostics, and Drug Delivery)
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13 pages, 3401 KiB  
Article
Oral Microbially-Induced Small Extracellular Vesicles Cross the Blood–Brain Barrier
by Mahmoud Elashiry, Angelica Carroll, Jessie Yuan, Yutao Liu, Mark Hamrick, Christopher W. Cutler, Qin Wang and Ranya Elsayed
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4509; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084509 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and its gingipain proteases contribute to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis through yet unclear mechanisms. Cellular secretion of small extracellular vesicles or exosomes (EXO) increases with aging as part of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). We have shown that EXO isolated [...] Read more.
Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and its gingipain proteases contribute to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis through yet unclear mechanisms. Cellular secretion of small extracellular vesicles or exosomes (EXO) increases with aging as part of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). We have shown that EXO isolated from Pg-infected dendritic cells contain gingipains and other Pg antigens and transmit senescence to bystander gingival cells, inducing alveolar bone loss in mice in vivo. Here, EXO were isolated from the gingiva of mice and humans with/without periodontitis (PD) to determine their ability to penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB) in vitro and in vivo. PD was induced by Pg oral gavage for 6 weeks in C57B6 mice. EXO isolated from the gingiva or brain of donor Pg-infected (PD EXO) or control animals (Con EXO) were characterized by NTA, Western blot, and TEM. Gingival PD EXO or Con EXO were labeled and injected into the gingiva of uninfected WT mouse model. EXO biodistribution in brains was tracked by an in vivo imaging system (IVIS) and confocal microscopy. The effect of human PD EXO on BBB integrity and permeability was examined using TEER and FITC dextran assays in a human in vitro 3D model of the BBB. Pg antigens (RGP and Mfa-1) were detected in EXO derived from gingival and brain tissues of donor Pg-infected mice. Orally injected PD EXO from donor mice penetrated the brains of recipient uninfected mice and colocalized with hippocampal microglial cells. IL-1β and IL-6 were expressed in human PD EXO and not in Con EXO. Human PD EXO promoted BBB permeability and penetrated the BBB in vitro. This is the first demonstration that microbial-induced EXO in the oral cavity can disseminate, cross the BBB, and may contribute to AD pathogenesis. Full article
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7 pages, 2281 KiB  
Communication
Channel Potential of Bandgap-Engineered Tunneling Oxide (BE-TOX) in Inhibited 3D NAND Flash Memory Strings
by Taeyoung Cho, Sungyeop Jung and Myounggon Kang
Electronics 2024, 13(8), 1573; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13081573 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this study, the channel potential of inhibited strings in 3D NAND flash memory using a bandgap-engineered tunneling oxide (BE-TOX) structure is analyzed. The equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) of the structure using BE-TOX was designed to be the same as the conventional 3D [...] Read more.
In this study, the channel potential of inhibited strings in 3D NAND flash memory using a bandgap-engineered tunneling oxide (BE-TOX) structure is analyzed. The equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) of the structure using BE-TOX was designed to be the same as the conventional 3D NAND flash memory, and the channel potentials of the down coupling phenomenon (DCP) and natural local self-boosting (NLSB) effect were analyzed. As a result, the BE-TOX structure was confirmed to have a higher channel potential in the DCP and NLSB than the conventional structure, making it relatively effective for program disturbance. The main reason for the difference in the channel potential between the BE-TOX and conventional structures is that adjacent cells have different threshold voltages (Vth). When the same program voltage (VPGM) and program time (TPGM) were applied during the program operation, Vth decreased in the BE-TOX structure, which increased the channel potential when DCP and NLSB occurred. Finally, a simulation was conducted by varying the thicknesses of the oxide and nitride in the BE-TOX structure. Despite the EOT being fixed and the thicknesses of both nitride and oxide being varied, the channel potential was affected. Full article
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12 pages, 1684 KiB  
Article
Onion Polyphenols as Multi-Target-Directed Ligands in MASLD: A Preliminary Molecular Docking Study
by Maria Rosaria Paravati, Anna Caterina Procopio, Maja Milanović, Giuseppe Guido Maria Scarlata, Nataša Milošević, Maja Ružić, Nataša Milić and Ludovico Abenavoli
Nutrients 2024, 16(8), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16081226 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
A sedentary lifestyle associated with unregulated diets rich in high-calorie foods have contributed to the great prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) latterly, with up to 60% in the high-risk population and 25% in the general population. The absence of specific [...] Read more.
A sedentary lifestyle associated with unregulated diets rich in high-calorie foods have contributed to the great prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) latterly, with up to 60% in the high-risk population and 25% in the general population. The absence of specific pharmacological strategies for this syndrome represents one of the major problems in the management of MASLD patients. Lifestyle interventions and adherence to a healthy diet are the main cornerstones of current therapies. The identification of nutraceuticals useful in the treatment of MASLD appears to be one of the most promising strategies for the development of new effective and safe treatments for this disease. The onion, one of the most widely studied foods in the field of nutraceuticals, serves as an inexhaustible reservoir of potent compounds with various beneficial effects. The following preliminary study analyzes, mediating in silico studies, the iteration of a library of typical onion compounds with 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, liver receptors X α and β, as well as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors α and γ. In this study, for the first time promising smart molecules from the onion that could have a beneficial action in MASLD patients were identified. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Metabolism)
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18 pages, 3919 KiB  
Article
Signaling Transduction Pathways and G-Protein-Coupled Receptors in Different Stages of the Embryonic Diapause Termination Process in Artemia
by Tong Hao, Zhentao Song, Mingzhi Zhang and Lingrui Zhang
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(4), 3676-3693; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46040229 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Artemia is a widely distributed small aquatic crustacean, renowned for its ability to enter a state of embryonic diapause. The embryonic diapause termination (EDT) is closely linked to environmental cues, but the precise underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, ATAC-seq and RNA-seq [...] Read more.
Artemia is a widely distributed small aquatic crustacean, renowned for its ability to enter a state of embryonic diapause. The embryonic diapause termination (EDT) is closely linked to environmental cues, but the precise underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, ATAC-seq and RNA-seq sequencing techniques were employed to explore the gene expression profiles in Artemia cysts 30 min after EDT. These profiles were compared with those during diapause and 5 h after EDT. The regulatory mechanisms governing the EDT process were analyzed through Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes. Furthermore, the active G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) were identified through structural analysis. The results unveiled that the signaling transduction during EDT primarily hinges on GPCRs and the cell surface receptor signaling pathway, but distinct genes are involved across different stages. Hormone-mediated signaling pathways and the tachykinin receptor signaling pathway exhibited heightened activity in the ‘0–30 min’ group, whereas the Wnt signaling pathway manifested its function solely in the ‘30 min–5 h’ group. These results imply a complete divergence in the mechanisms of signal regulation during these two stages. Moreover, through structural analysis, five GPCRs operating at different stages of EDT were identified. These findings provide valuable insights into the signal regulation mechanisms governing Artemia diapause. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reproductive Biology and Germ Cell Development)
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11 pages, 1188 KiB  
Article
Advanced Respiratory Failure Requiring Tracheostomy—A Marker of Unfavourable Prognosis after Heart Transplantation
by Marta Załęska-Kocięcka, Marco Morosin, Jonathan Dutton, Rita Fernandez Garda, Katarzyna Piotrowska, Nicholas Lees, Tuan-Chen Aw, Diana Garcia Saez and Ana Hurtado Doce
Diagnostics 2024, 14(8), 851; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14080851 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Advanced respiratory failure with tracheostomy requirement is common in heart recipients. The aim of the study is to assess the tracheostomy rate after orthotopic heart transplantation and identify the subgroups of patients with the highest need for tracheostomy and these groups’ association with [...] Read more.
Advanced respiratory failure with tracheostomy requirement is common in heart recipients. The aim of the study is to assess the tracheostomy rate after orthotopic heart transplantation and identify the subgroups of patients with the highest need for tracheostomy and these groups’ association with mortality at a single centre through a retrospective analysis of 140 consecutive patients transplanted between December 2012 and July 2018. As many as 28.6% heart recipients suffered from advanced respiratory failure with a need for tracheostomy that was performed after a median time of 11.5 days post-transplant. Tracheostomy was associated with a history of stroke (OR 3.4; 95% CI) 1.32–8.86; p = 0.012), previous sternotomy (OR 2.5; 95% CI 1.18–5.32; p = 0.017), longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR 1.01; 95% CI 1.00–1.01; p = 0.007) as well as primary graft failure (OR 6.79; 95% CI2.93–15.71; p < 0.001), need of renal replacement therapy (OR 19.2; 95% 2.53–146; p = 0.004) and daily mean SOFA score up to 72 h (OR 1.50; 95% 1.23–1.71; p < 0.01). One-year mortality was significantly higher in patients requiring a tracheostomy vs. those not requiring one during their hospital stay (50% vs. 16%, p < 0.001). The need for tracheostomy in heart transplant recipients was 30% in our study. Advanced respiratory failure was associated with over 3-fold greater 1-year mortality. Thus, tracheostomy placement may be regarded as a marker of unfavourable prognosis. Full article
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13 pages, 1845 KiB  
Article
Refinement and Computation Method for Line/Body Topological Relationships
by Xiaoguang Zhou, Xiaohan Wang, Dongyang Hou, Qiankun Kang and Nawaz Ali
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3474; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083474 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Three-dimensional topological relationships serve as a theoretical foundation for quality control, update processing, and spatial analysis of three-dimensional spatial data in real-world three-dimensional GIS. The existing 3D topological relationship models are all basic relationship models that cannot distinguish the refined topological relationship between [...] Read more.
Three-dimensional topological relationships serve as a theoretical foundation for quality control, update processing, and spatial analysis of three-dimensional spatial data in real-world three-dimensional GIS. The existing 3D topological relationship models are all basic relationship models that cannot distinguish the refined topological relationship between the line and the body with multiple intersections. In this study, we develop a 3D refined topological relationship description framework that draws from the two-dimensional refined topological relationship model, defines the unit intersection between the line and the body based on manifold topology, and proposes a method for describing the unit intersections between the line and the body considering Euler numbers and adjacency types. In total, 23 basic types between the line and the body are deduced. An example is provided to illustrate the distinguished refined topological relationship between the line and the body with multiple intersections. Subsequently, an algorithm for determining the basic type of line/body is developed. Finally, a line/body refined topological relationship computation prototype system is developed using the Nef polyhedron model, C++ language, and an open-source geometric algorithm library, and the effectiveness of our method is verified using actual building and pedestrian data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Geospatial Big Data Mining)
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15 pages, 4049 KiB  
Article
Identification of the Biomechanical Response of the Muscles That Contract the Most during Disfluencies in Stuttered Speech
by Edu Marin, Nicole Unsihuay, Victoria E. Abarca and Dante A. Elias
Sensors 2024, 24(8), 2629; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24082629 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Stuttering, affecting approximately 1% of the global population, is a complex speech disorder significantly impacting individuals’ quality of life. Prior studies using electromyography (EMG) to examine orofacial muscle activity in stuttering have presented mixed results, highlighting the variability in neuromuscular responses during stuttering [...] Read more.
Stuttering, affecting approximately 1% of the global population, is a complex speech disorder significantly impacting individuals’ quality of life. Prior studies using electromyography (EMG) to examine orofacial muscle activity in stuttering have presented mixed results, highlighting the variability in neuromuscular responses during stuttering episodes. Fifty-five participants with stuttering and 30 individuals without stuttering, aged between 18 and 40, participated in the study. EMG signals from five facial and cervical muscles were recorded during speech tasks and analyzed for mean amplitude and frequency activity in the 5–15 Hz range to identify significant differences. Upon analysis of the 5–15 Hz frequency range, a higher average amplitude was observed in the zygomaticus major muscle for participants while stuttering (p < 0.05). Additionally, when assessing the overall EMG signal amplitude, a higher average amplitude was observed in samples obtained from disfluencies in participants who did not stutter, particularly in the depressor anguli oris muscle (p < 0.05). Significant differences in muscle activity were observed between the two groups, particularly in the depressor anguli oris and zygomaticus major muscles. These results suggest that the underlying neuromuscular mechanisms of stuttering might involve subtle aspects of timing and coordination in muscle activation. Therefore, these findings may contribute to the field of biosensors by providing valuable perspectives on neuromuscular mechanisms and the relevance of electromyography in stuttering research. Further research in this area has the potential to advance the development of biosensor technology for language-related applications and therapeutic interventions in stuttering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Health and Performance Monitoring Sensors)
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18 pages, 7062 KiB  
Article
Compressive Failure Characteristics of a Coal–Rock Combination at Different Angles: Experimental Study and Fractal Analysis
by Long Tang, Shihao Tu, Hongsheng Tu, Kaijun Miao, Wenlong Li, Hongbin Zhao, Jieyang Ma and Lei Zhang
Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(4), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8040240 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
In order to explore the influence of dip angles on the deformation and failure of a coal–rock combination, uniaxial compression experiments were carried out on a coal–rock combination with different dip angles, and the acoustic emissions (hereinafter referred to as AE) responses during [...] Read more.
In order to explore the influence of dip angles on the deformation and failure of a coal–rock combination, uniaxial compression experiments were carried out on a coal–rock combination with different dip angles, and the acoustic emissions (hereinafter referred to as AE) responses during loading were collected. Based on the damage mechanics theory and fractal theory, the fractal dimensions of different damage degrees were calculated. The results show that, with the increase in the inclination angle, the compressive strength and elastic modulus of the coal–rock combination gradually decreased, while the AE ringing count gradually increased first and then decreased. At the initial loading stage of the specimen, the greater the damage degree of the coal–rock combination under the same strain condition, the larger the value of its overall fractal dimension. The AE fractal dimension of the coal–rock combination increases gradually between 10% and 20% of the damage degree. It suddenly decreased between 50% and 60%, then increased slightly before gradually decreasing to the minimum between 80% and 100%. The sudden decrease in fractal dimension, a slight increase, and then a continuous decrease can be used as the precursor information for the instability and failure of the coal–rock combination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fractal Analysis and Its Applications in Rock Engineering)
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18 pages, 4153 KiB  
Article
Online Model Adaption for Energy Management in Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)
by Ricardo Novella, Benjamín Plá, Pau Bares and Douglas Pinto
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3473; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083473 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
The growing interest in low-impact mobility technologies has elevated the significance of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the automotive sector. Given the complexity of the resulting powertrain, the need for an effective energy management strategy (EMS) becomes essential to optimize efficiency and [...] Read more.
The growing interest in low-impact mobility technologies has elevated the significance of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the automotive sector. Given the complexity of the resulting powertrain, the need for an effective energy management strategy (EMS) becomes essential to optimize efficiency and energy consumption in vehicles with diverse energy sources. Model-based control is the main approach to address the EMS in electrified vehicles. In particular, fuel cell power is commonly represented through a 1D look-up table using the current demand as input to simplify the implementation in a vehicle control unit. Uncertainties that may be implemented in maps due to simplifying hypotheses, dynamics, ageing, etc., can be propagated to powertrain control, motivating the adoption of adaptive look-up tables for FC modelling. In this study, an extended Kalman filter (EKF) is proposed to adapt the look-up table to actual FC behaviour by measuring its power and gradually correcting calibration errors, drift, and ageing. Subsequently, a standard equivalent consumption minimization strategy (ECMS) is employed to control the FCEV. The fuel cell model is calibrated with experimental data from an FCEV. The results demonstrate that the adaptive strategy outperforms the base calibration. Following an extensive simulation campaign, an improvement of 1.1% in fuel consumption was observed. Remarkably, after just one hour of operation, there was a notable 85% reduction in fuel cell power estimation error, even when the EMS was initially fed a biased look-up table. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Fuel Cell Renewable Hybrid Power Systems)
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19 pages, 925 KiB  
Review
Building Resilient Cities: A Comprehensive Review of Climate Change Adaptation Indicators for Urban Design
by Carlota García Díaz, David Zambrana-Vasquez and Carmen Bartolomé
Energies 2024, 17(8), 1959; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17081959 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Urban areas generate more than 70% of the world’s climate change emissions, mainly CO2, produced by the combustion of fossil fuels. Climate change is increasing cities’ exposure to climate hazards, such as heat waves or floods. Therefore, there is a need [...] Read more.
Urban areas generate more than 70% of the world’s climate change emissions, mainly CO2, produced by the combustion of fossil fuels. Climate change is increasing cities’ exposure to climate hazards, such as heat waves or floods. Therefore, there is a need to improve risk management with the inclusion of climate resilience in urban policy design. Despite improved urban climate monitoring, there are still relatively few scientific publications on climate change adaptation in urban areas. Adaptation to climate change is not achieved through specific action, but rather through the adoption and continuous implementation of adaptation actions such as housing rehabilitation, green space management and protection measures for vulnerable groups. This variety of actions makes it difficult not only to identify different indicators, but also to use common benchmarks. Considering the role of municipalities in adapting to climate change, it is crucial to identify adaptation indicators that serve as a basis for decision making, as well as evaluation methods that allow the effectiveness of planned and implemented measures in municipalities. It can be used to determine which measures increase the level of adaptation or lead to poor adaptation. Therefore, monitoring indicators makes it possible to evaluate the effectiveness of the measures, in addition to formulating new ones. This paper includes a literature review of existing index designed to address climate hazards and mitigate their impacts in urban areas. Full article
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26 pages, 4060 KiB  
Article
Impacts of Land Use Conversion on Soil Erosion in the Urban Agglomeration on the Northern Slopes of the Tianshan Mountains
by Ziqi Guo, Zhaojin Yan, Rong He, Hui Yang, Hui Ci and Ran Wang
Land 2024, 13(4), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13040550 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
The serious problem of soil erosion not only has a profound impact on people’s lives but also results in a series of ecological and environmental challenges. To determine the impact of changes in land use type on soil erosion in the urban agglomeration [...] Read more.
The serious problem of soil erosion not only has a profound impact on people’s lives but also results in a series of ecological and environmental challenges. To determine the impact of changes in land use type on soil erosion in the urban agglomeration on the northern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains, this study commences by employing the InVEST-SDR (integrated valuation of ecosystem services and tradeoffs–sediment delivery ratio) model to calculate soil erosion levels spanning from 2000 to 2020. Subsequently, it forecasts land use and land cover (LULC) conditions for the year 2030 under three scenarios: Q1 (natural development), Q2 (ecological protection), and Q3 (economic priority). This projection is accomplished through the integration of a coupled Markov chain and multi-objective planning model (MOP) alongside patch-generating land use simulation (PLUS) models. Ultimately, based on these outcomes, the study predicts soil erosion levels for the year 2030. There has been a consistent decline in soil erosion from 2000 to 2020 with high-intensity erosion concentrated in the Tianshan Mountain region. Grasslands, glaciers, and permafrost are identified as the most erosion-prone land types in the study area, with forests exhibiting the highest capacity for soil retention. Converting from grassland and barren land to forest within the same area results in a substantial reduction in soil erosion, specifically by 27.3% and 46.3%, respectively. Furthermore, the transformation from barren land to grassland also leads to a noteworthy 19% decrease in soil erosion. Over the past two decades, the study area has witnessed a significant decline in the area of grasslands, with a notable shift towards barren and impervious surfaces due to economic development and mining activities. The three predicted scenarios depict significant expansion towards barren land, grassland, and impervious area, respectively. Soil erosion decreases under different shared socio-economic pathway (SSP) scenarios relative to 2020. There is an increase in soil erosion in the Q1 scenario and in the Q3 scenario, whereas the amount of soil erosion in the Q2 scenario exhibits a continued decrease when only the effect of land change on soil erosion is considered. Persistently rapid economic development can exacerbate soil erosion problems, underscoring the need to find a balance between economic growth and ecological conservation. As economic expansion slows down, greater emphasis should be placed on environmental protection to maintain ecological stability. Full article
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10 pages, 4228 KiB  
Review
Cell-Free Synthesis: Expediting Biomanufacturing of Chemical and Biological Molecules
by So-Jeong Lee and Dong-Myung Kim
Molecules 2024, 29(8), 1878; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29081878 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
The increasing demand for sustainable alternatives underscores the critical need for a shift away from traditional hydrocarbon-dependent processes. In this landscape, biomanufacturing emerges as a compelling solution, offering a pathway to produce essential chemical materials with significantly reduced environmental impacts. By utilizing engineered [...] Read more.
The increasing demand for sustainable alternatives underscores the critical need for a shift away from traditional hydrocarbon-dependent processes. In this landscape, biomanufacturing emerges as a compelling solution, offering a pathway to produce essential chemical materials with significantly reduced environmental impacts. By utilizing engineered microorganisms and biomass as raw materials, biomanufacturing seeks to achieve a carbon-neutral footprint, effectively counteracting the carbon dioxide emissions associated with fossil fuel use. The efficiency and specificity of biocatalysts further contribute to lowering energy consumption and enhancing the sustainability of the production process. Within this context, cell-free synthesis emerges as a promising approach to accelerate the shift towards biomanufacturing. Operating with cellular machinery in a controlled environment, cell-free synthesis offers multiple advantages: it enables the rapid evaluation of biosynthetic pathways and optimization of the conditions for the synthesis of specific chemicals. It also holds potential as an on-demand platform for the production of personalized and specialized products. This review explores recent progress in cell-free synthesis, highlighting its potential to expedite the transformation of chemical processes into more sustainable biomanufacturing practices. We discuss how cell-free techniques not only accelerate the development of new bioproducts but also broaden the horizons for sustainable chemical production. Additionally, we address the challenges of scaling these technologies for commercial use and ensuring their affordability, which are critical for cell-free systems to meet the future demands of industries and fully realize their potential. Full article
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13 pages, 7554 KiB  
Article
Innovative Solutions for Worn Fingerprints: A Comparative Analysis of Traditional Fingerprint Impression and 3D Printing
by Wenhui Mao, Yadong Zhao, Petro Pavlenko, Yihan Chen and Xuezhi Shi
Sensors 2024, 24(8), 2627; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24082627 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Fingerprint recognition systems have achieved widespread integration into various technological devices, including cell phones, computers, door locks, and time attendance machines. Nevertheless, individuals with worn fingerprints encounter challenges when attempting to unlock original fingerprint systems, which results in disruptions to their daily activities. [...] Read more.
Fingerprint recognition systems have achieved widespread integration into various technological devices, including cell phones, computers, door locks, and time attendance machines. Nevertheless, individuals with worn fingerprints encounter challenges when attempting to unlock original fingerprint systems, which results in disruptions to their daily activities. This study explores two distinct methods for fingerprint backup: traditional fingerprint impression and 3D printing technologies. Unlocking tests were conducted on commonly available optical fingerprint lock-equipped cell phones to assess the efficacy of these methods, particularly in unlocking with worn fingerprints. The research findings indicated that the traditional fingerprint impression method exhibited high fidelity in reproducing fingerprint patterns, achieving an impressive unlocking success rate of 97.8% for imprinting unworn fingerprints. However, when dealing with worn fingerprints, the traditional fingerprint impression technique showed a reduced unlocking success rate, progressively decreasing with increasing degrees of finger wear. In contrast, 3D-printed backup fingerprints, with image processing and optimization of ridge height, mitigated the impact of fingerprint wear on the unlocking capability, resulting in an unlocking success rate of 84.4% or higher. Thus, the utilization of 3D printing technology proves advantageous for individuals with severely worn or incomplete fingerprints, providing a viable solution for unforeseen circumstances. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Optical Sensors)
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22 pages, 9742 KiB  
Article
Fusion of Land-Based and Satellite-Based Localization Using Constrained Weighted Least Squares
by Paihang Zhao, Linqiang Jiang, Tao Tang, Zhidong Wu and Ding Wang
Sensors 2024, 24(8), 2628; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24082628 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Combining multiple devices for localization has important applications in the military field. This paper exploits the land-based short-wave platforms and satellites for fusion localization. The ionospheric reflection height error and satellite position errors have a great impact on the short-wave localization and satellite [...] Read more.
Combining multiple devices for localization has important applications in the military field. This paper exploits the land-based short-wave platforms and satellites for fusion localization. The ionospheric reflection height error and satellite position errors have a great impact on the short-wave localization and satellite localization accuracy, respectively. In this paper, an iterative constrained weighted least squares (ICWLS) algorithm is proposed for these two kinds of errors. The algorithm converts the nonconvex equation constraints to linear constraints using the results of the previous iteration, thus ensuring convergence to the globally optimal solution. Simulation results show that the localization accuracy of the algorithm can reach the corresponding Constrained Cramér–Rao Lower Bound (CCRLB). Finally, the localization results of the two methods are fused using Kalman filtering. Simulations show that the fused localization accuracy is improved compared to the single-means localization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Navigation and Positioning)
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12 pages, 454 KiB  
Article
The Relationship between Neutrophil–Lymphocyte Ratios with Nutritional Status, Risk of Nutritional Indices, Prognostic Nutritional Indices and Morbidity in Patients with Ischemic Stroke
by Naile Fevziye Misirlioglu, Nedim Uzun, Gulenay Defne Ozen, Mustafa Çalik, Ertugrul Altinbilek, Necmettin Sutasir, Sena Baykara Sayili and Hafize Uzun
Nutrients 2024, 16(8), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16081225 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: In recent years, whole blood parameters and derivatives have been used as prognostic criteria in the course of various diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between parameters such as the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), the systemic immune-inflammation index [...] Read more.
Background: In recent years, whole blood parameters and derivatives have been used as prognostic criteria in the course of various diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between parameters such as the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score, nutritional risk index (NRI) and immunonutrition status and disease activity in patients with ischemic stroke of the small-vessel, large-vessel and other etiologies. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the records of 1454 consecutive ischemic stroke patients hospitalized in the emergency department of Gaziosmanpasa Education and Research Hospital from 2019 to 2023. Results: Of the 1350 patients with ischemic stroke included in the study, 58.8% had small-vessel disease, 29.3% had large-vessel disease and 11.9% had other etiologies. There was a significant difference between the three etiology groups for PNI and CONUT. The mean of PNI was 47.30 ± 8.06 in the other etiology group, 37.25 ± 7.23 in the small-vessel group, and 34.78 ± 8.16 in the large-vessel disease group. The mean of CONUT was 5.49 ± 1.20 in the small-vessel group, 5.12 ± 1.46 in the large-vessel group and 4.22 ± 1.11 in the other etiology group. In addition, CONUT and PNI were also found to be independent risk factors for mortality. A negative significant correlation was observed between PNI and NLR (r: −0.692), SII (r: −0.591), and CONUT (r: −0.511). Significant correlations were observed between CONUT and NLR (r: 0.402), SII (r: 0.312). Conclusions: PNI, CONUT and NRI were found as more accurate prognostic indicators of nutritional status in patients with ischemic stroke. NLR and SII may be important predictive markers in the course and prognosis of stroke. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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15 pages, 7097 KiB  
Review
Recent Status of Production, Administration Policies, and Low-Carbon Technology Development of China’s Steel Industry
by Yufeng Qiao and Guang Wang
Metals 2024, 14(4), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14040480 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
In 2023, China’s crude steel production amount reached 1.019 billion tons, and the energy consumption of China’s steel industry amount reached 561 million tons of coal. China’s steel industry, with its dominant reliance on coal for energy and the primary use of blast [...] Read more.
In 2023, China’s crude steel production amount reached 1.019 billion tons, and the energy consumption of China’s steel industry amount reached 561 million tons of coal. China’s steel industry, with its dominant reliance on coal for energy and the primary use of blast furnaces and converters in production processes, as well as its massive output, has become the main field for achieving China’s “carbon peaking” and “carbon neutrality” goals. Firstly, this article summarizes the current production status of the steel industry and the situation of carbon emissions in the steel industry. Secondly, it discusses the dual-carbon policies based on the national and steel industry levels and outlines the future directions for China’s steel industry. Subsequently, it analyzes the current state of research and application of mature and emerging low-carbon technology in China’s steel industry and details the low-carbon plans of China’s steel companies using the low-carbon technology roadmaps of two representative steel companies as examples. Finally, the article gives policy suggestions for the further carbon reduction of China’s steel industry. The purpose of this paper is to show the efforts and contributions of China’s steel industry to the early realization of its “carbon peaking” and “carbon neutrality” goals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Extractive Metallurgy)
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14 pages, 3234 KiB  
Article
Health Insights from Nematode Larval Characterization in Greater Lizardfish, Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795) (Teleostei, Synodontidae)
by Younes Ghahvei, Mohammad Mirzaei, Shahrzad Azizi, Shadi Hashemnia and Shokoofeh Shamsi
Fishes 2024, 9(4), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9040143 (registering DOI) - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Fish health is of significant ecological and economic importance. In response to public observations of parasite-like structures in a popular edible fish, this study aimed to characterize nematode larvae commonly found in the muscle and body cavity of Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795), [...] Read more.
Fish health is of significant ecological and economic importance. In response to public observations of parasite-like structures in a popular edible fish, this study aimed to characterize nematode larvae commonly found in the muscle and body cavity of Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795), a commercially important fish species inhabiting the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea. This fish, locally known as Hasoom, holds substantial culinary importance, being a staple in the diets of millions residing in countries around the Persian Gulf. A total of 458 Saurida tumbil specimens were obtained from fish markets between June 2022 and May 2023. Subsequent examination revealed the presence of a total of 6132 nematode larvae. Nematodes found in the body cavity were identified as belonging to the genus Hysterothylacium sp., family Raphidascarididae, while those in the muscle were identified as Anisakis sp. larval type, family Anisakidae. Histopathology results suggested that these parasites may have adverse health impacts on their fish host. Notably, both nematode genera were found in the third larval stage, which is known to be the infective stage for anisakidosis. Given the reported cases of anisakidosis among people living in the study region, it is strongly recommended that fish be properly cooked before consumption to mitigate health risks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fish Pathology and Parasitology)
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