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16 pages, 5893 KiB  
Article
Silibinin’s Effects against Methotrexate-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis Rat Model
by Ghada Khawaja and Youmna El-Orfali
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040431 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is the first drug of choice to treat several diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. However, its administration is accompanied by severe side effects, most commonly hepatotoxicity. Hence, alternative therapies with a lower toxicity and fewer side effects are needed. This study aimed [...] Read more.
Methotrexate (MTX) is the first drug of choice to treat several diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. However, its administration is accompanied by severe side effects, most commonly hepatotoxicity. Hence, alternative therapies with a lower toxicity and fewer side effects are needed. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of silibinin (SIL, natural agent) against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity in an adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rat model. Arthritic rats were treated with SIL (100 mg/kg) and/or methotrexate (2 mg/kg). Non-arthritic rats, arthritic untreated rats, and arthritic rats who received the vehicle were followed in parallel. SIL alleviated the systemic consequences of arthritis by restoring lost weight, decreasing the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and ameliorating joint damage, which was evident both micro- and macroscopically. Additionally, SIL prevented the histopathological alterations in the liver and significantly reduced the liver damage caused by MTX and AIA, as shown by a decrease in the markers of liver damage (ALT and AST). Furthermore, SIL relieved the oxidative stress induced by AIA and MTX in liver tissue by decreasing the lipid peroxidation (MDA) levels and enhancing the antioxidant defense system (GSH levels; catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities). In conclusion, our results suggest that SIL is a potent antioxidant and hepatoprotective agent in arthritic rats. It markedly attenuated the progression and severity of the arthritic disease and eased the oxidative stress in liver tissue by improving the pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for the Treatment of Rheumatic Diseases)
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11 pages, 652 KiB  
Article
CARDS, a Novel Prognostic Index for Risk Stratification and In-Hospital Monitoring
by Siyu Liang, Qing Chang, Yuelun Zhang, Hanze Du, Huijuan Zhu, Shi Chen and Hui Pan
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1961; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071961 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Sodium fluctuation is independently associated with clinical deterioration. We developed and validated a prognostic index based on sodium fluctuation for risk stratification and in-hospital monitoring. Methods: This study included 33,323 adult patients hospitalized at a tertiary care hospital in 2014. [...] Read more.
Background: Sodium fluctuation is independently associated with clinical deterioration. We developed and validated a prognostic index based on sodium fluctuation for risk stratification and in-hospital monitoring. Methods: This study included 33,323 adult patients hospitalized at a tertiary care hospital in 2014. The first 28,279 hospitalizations were analyzed to develop the model and then the validity of the model was tested using data from 5044 subsequent hospitalizations. We predict in-hospital mortality using age, comorbidity, range of sodium fluctuation, and duration of sodium fluctuation, abbreviated as CARDS. Results: In-hospital mortality was similar in the derivation (0.6%) and validation (0.4%) cohorts. In the derivation cohort, four independent risk factors for mortality were identified using logistic regression: age (66–75, 2 points; >75, 3 points); Charlson comorbidity index (>2, 5 points); range of sodium fluctuation (7–10, 4 points; >10, 10 points); and duration of fluctuation (≤3, 3 points). The AUC was 0.907 (95% CI: 0.885–0.928) in the derivation cohort and 0.932 (95% CI: 0.895–0.970) in the validation cohort. In the derivation cohort, in-hospital mortality was 0.106% in the low-risk group (0–7 points), 1.076% in the intermediate-risk group (8–14 points), and 8.463% in the high-risk group (15–21 points). In the validation cohort, in-hospital mortality was 0.049% in the low-risk group, 1.064% in the intermediate-risk group, and 8.403% in the high-risk group. Conclusions: These results suggest that patients at low, intermediate, and high risk for in-hospital mortality may be identified by CARDS mainly based on sodium fluctuation. Full article
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19 pages, 13345 KiB  
Article
Effect of Water Absorption and Stacking Sequences on the Tensile Properties and Damage Mechanisms of Hybrid Polyester/Glass/Jute Composites
by Rudá Aranha, Mario A. Albuquerque Filho, Cícero de L. Santos, Tony Herbert F. de Andrade, Viviane M. Fonseca, Jose Luis Valin Rivera, Marco A. dos Santos, Antonio G. B. de Lima, Wanderley F. de Amorim, Jr. and Laura H. de Carvalho
Polymers 2024, 16(7), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16070925 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The aim of this work is to analyze the effect of water absorption on the mechanical properties and damage mechanisms of polyester/glass fiber/jute fiber hybrid composites obtained using the compression molding and vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) techniques with different stacking sequences. For [...] Read more.
The aim of this work is to analyze the effect of water absorption on the mechanical properties and damage mechanisms of polyester/glass fiber/jute fiber hybrid composites obtained using the compression molding and vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) techniques with different stacking sequences. For this purpose, the mechanical behavior under tensile stress of the samples was evaluated before and after hygrothermal aging at different temperatures: TA, 50 °C, and 70 °C for a period of 696 h. The damage mechanism after the mechanical tests was evaluated using SEM analysis. The results showed a tendency for the mechanical properties of the composites to decrease with exposure to an aqueous ambient, regardless of the molding technique used to conform the composites. It was also observed that the stacking sequence had no significant influence on the dry composites. However, exposure to the aqueous ambient led to a reduction in mechanical properties, both for the molding technique and the stacking sequence. Damage such as delamination, fiber pull-out, fiber/matrix detachment, voids, and matrix removal were observed in the composites in the SEM analyses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Materials III)
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19 pages, 13616 KiB  
Article
Synthetic-to-Real Composite Semantic Segmentation in Additive Manufacturing
by Aliaksei Petsiuk, Harnoor Singh, Himanshu Dadhwal and Joshua M. Pearce
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2024, 8(2), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp8020066 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The application of computer vision and machine learning methods for semantic segmentation of the structural elements of 3D-printed products in the field of additive manufacturing (AM) can improve real-time failure analysis systems and potentially reduce the number of defects by providing additional tools [...] Read more.
The application of computer vision and machine learning methods for semantic segmentation of the structural elements of 3D-printed products in the field of additive manufacturing (AM) can improve real-time failure analysis systems and potentially reduce the number of defects by providing additional tools for in situ corrections. This work demonstrates the possibilities of using physics-based rendering for labeled image dataset generation, as well as image-to-image style transfer capabilities to improve the accuracy of real image segmentation for AM systems. Multi-class semantic segmentation experiments were carried out based on the U-Net model and the cycle generative adversarial network. The test results demonstrated the capacity of this method to detect such structural elements of 3D-printed parts as a top (last printed) layer, infill, shell, and support. A basis for further segmentation system enhancement by utilizing image-to-image style transfer and domain adaptation technologies was also considered. The results indicate that using style transfer as a precursor to domain adaptation can improve real 3D printing image segmentation in situations where a model trained on synthetic data is the only tool available. The mean intersection over union (mIoU) scores for synthetic test datasets included 94.90% for the entire 3D-printed part, 73.33% for the top layer, 78.93% for the infill, 55.31% for the shell, and 69.45% for supports. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Advanced Manufacturing)
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15 pages, 2510 KiB  
Article
Development of a Predictive Model for Iron Levels in Bovine Muscle Tissue Using Hair as a Predictor
by Kirill Narozhnykh
Animals 2024, 14(7), 1028; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071028 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The assessment of iron levels in cattle muscle tissue is crucial for livestock management because it influences both animal health and meat quality, key factors in sustainable development. This study aimed to develop an optimal model for noninvasively predicting the iron content in [...] Read more.
The assessment of iron levels in cattle muscle tissue is crucial for livestock management because it influences both animal health and meat quality, key factors in sustainable development. This study aimed to develop an optimal model for noninvasively predicting the iron content in Hereford cattle muscle tissue, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the animals’ elemental status. The research involved the atomic absorption analysis of muscle tissue and hair samples from cattle. A regression model was constructed using the least squares method to identify the most effective approach. These findings have ecological applications, aiding in evaluating environmental health and establishing acceptable iron thresholds for animals. The proposed mathematical model utilizing biomarkers (levels of Mg, K, Fe, Al, Cr in hair) will allow for the assessment of iron levels in cattle muscle tissue throughout the period of productive use, with the possibility of adjustment and tracking the changes in elemental status over time. The utilization of the developed method will enable the diagnosis of animal elementosis and assessment of the iron level burden. Subsequently, this will allow for the improvement of the qualitative characteristics of the final product. Thus, the obtained data contribute to fundamental knowledge regarding the content and variability of iron levels in the muscle tissue of cattle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Trace Element in Animal Health and Metabolic: Second Edition)
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26 pages, 1824 KiB  
Article
Preschool Teachers’ Emotional Competence and Teacher Self-Efficacy towards Preschool Performance in Zhejiang Province of China
by Xiaolu Ye, Nor Aniza Ahmad, Nur Aimi Nasuha Burhanuddin, Meng Na and Danwei Li
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040280 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the interplay between emotional competence, self-efficacy, and teaching experience in determining preschool teachers’ performance. Drawing on Bandura’s Theory of Self-Efficacy, Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence Theory, and Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, the research employs a quantitative approach, analyzing responses from preschool teachers [...] Read more.
This study investigates the interplay between emotional competence, self-efficacy, and teaching experience in determining preschool teachers’ performance. Drawing on Bandura’s Theory of Self-Efficacy, Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence Theory, and Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, the research employs a quantitative approach, analyzing responses from preschool teachers in Zhejiang province, China. Key findings reveal that emotional competence significantly predicts teachers’ performance and self-efficacy, with self-efficacy further mediating this relationship. Interestingly, while teaching experience moderates the impact of emotional competence on self-efficacy, it does not significantly influence the relationship between self-efficacy and teaching performance. The study underscores the critical role of emotional competence in teaching efficacy and highlights the complexity of how teaching experience interacts with these dynamics. These insights are crucial for developing targeted interventions in teacher training programs, emphasizing emotional skills and self-belief as key drivers of effective teaching in early-childhood education. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Educational Psychology)
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23 pages, 14635 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Low- and High-Velocity Responses of Basalt–Epoxy and Basalt–Elium Composites
by Jesse Joseph Llanos, Ke Wang and Farid Taheri
Polymers 2024, 16(7), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16070926 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Currently, fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRPs) used for demanding structural applications predominantly utilize carbon, glass, and aramid fibers embedded in epoxy resin, albeit occasionally polyester and vinyl ester resins are also used. This study investigates the feasibility of employing recyclable and sustainable materials to [...] Read more.
Currently, fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRPs) used for demanding structural applications predominantly utilize carbon, glass, and aramid fibers embedded in epoxy resin, albeit occasionally polyester and vinyl ester resins are also used. This study investigates the feasibility of employing recyclable and sustainable materials to formulate a composite suitable for load-bearing structural applications, particularly in scenarios involving low-velocity and high-velocity impacts (LVIs and HVIs, respectively). The paper presents a comparative analysis of the performance of basalt–Elium, a fully recyclable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly composite, with an epoxy-based counterpart. Moreover, an accurate and reliable numerical model has been developed and introduced through which the response of these composites can be examined efficiently and accurately under various loading states. The results of this investigation demonstrate the viability of the basalt–elium composite as a fully recyclable and sustainable material for crafting efficient and lightweight composites. Additionally, the accurately developed finite element model presented here can be used to assess the influence of several parameters on the composite, thereby optimizing it for a given situation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Behaviors and Properties of Polymer Materials)
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20 pages, 6108 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Changes of the Gut Microbiota and Its Functional Metagenomic Potential during the Development of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
by Cuijiao Feng, Na Li, Guangqi Gao, Qiuwen He, Lai-Yu Kwok and Heping Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3768; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073768 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The gut microbiota plays a significant role in tumor pathogenesis by regulating the host metabolism and immune response, and there are few studies focused on tracking changes in the gut microbiota from the onset of lung cancer. Therefore, the aim of our study [...] Read more.
The gut microbiota plays a significant role in tumor pathogenesis by regulating the host metabolism and immune response, and there are few studies focused on tracking changes in the gut microbiota from the onset of lung cancer. Therefore, the aim of our study is combining preclinical and clinical research to thoroughly analyze the signatures of fecal microbiota in lung cancer, which will be useful for early diagnosis and predicting the therapeutic efficacy of lung cancer. The first part of this study analyzed the fecal metagenomic differences between patients with non-small cell lung cancer and healthy subjects, and the second part of this work constructed a murine lung cancer model to monitor changes in mouse fecal metagenomics and T cell immunology during lung cancer progression. We found that the fecal microbiota was altered in both humans and mice with lung cancer, characterized by a significantly reduced microbial diversity and number of beneficial microbes, with increases in potential pathogens. The fecal level of Akkermansia muciniphila and the gut metabolic module of the secondary bile acid metabolism were diminished in both humans and mice with lung cancer compared with healthy subjects. Splenomegaly was observed in the lung cancer mice. Flow cytometer analysis of the splenocytes revealed substantial alterations in the proportions of T cell subsets in the lung cancer mice, characterized by significant increases in CD4+Foxp3+CD25+ T regulatory cells (p < 0.05) while significant decreases in CD3+ T cells (p < 0.001), CD4+ T cells (p < 0.001), and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio (p < 0.01). Vertical and longitudinal analyses of the fecal microbiota of the two mouse groups identified some lung cancer biomarkers (including Acutalibacter timonensis, Lachnospiraceae bacterium NSJ-38 sp014337195, etc.). The fecal microbiota of the lung cancer mice had a reduced metagenomic potential for neurotransmitters (melatonin, γ-aminobutyric acid, and histamine) compared with healthy mice. In summary, this study found that the diversity, structure, and composition of gut microbiota vary between cancer and healthy conditions, ultimately leading to changes in the potential for functional metagenomics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)
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11 pages, 1071 KiB  
Systematic Review
Trichoscopy of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review
by Agata Kuczara, Anna Wa?kiel-Burnat, Adriana Rakowska, Ma?gorzata Olszewska and Lidia Rudnicka
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1962; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071962 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of non-scarring hair loss, is a consequence of the gradual miniaturization of the hair follicles. In the majority of male androgenetic alopecia cases, a patient’s history and clinical evaluation may be sufficient to establish the [...] Read more.
Background: Androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of non-scarring hair loss, is a consequence of the gradual miniaturization of the hair follicles. In the majority of male androgenetic alopecia cases, a patient’s history and clinical evaluation may be sufficient to establish the diagnosis, while for women, they should be supplemented with trichoscopy. Methods: The PubMed and Scopus databases were used to collate published studies and to analyze the most typical trichoscopic findings in patients diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia. A total of 34 articles were retrieved after exclusion. Results: The most common features identified using trichoscopy included hair diameter variability (94.07% of patients), vellus hairs (66.45%) and the peripilar sign (43.27%). Others, such as the honeycomb pattern, yellow and white dots, were less relevant. Conclusions: We concluded that hair diameter variability, vellus hairs and the peripilar sign represented valuable indicators for the diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dermatology)
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24 pages, 33744 KiB  
Article
Experimental and Simulation Investigation on Fatigue Performance of H13 Steel Tools in Friction Stir Welding of Aluminum Alloys
by Ling Long, Xiaohong Zhang, Song Gu, Xiuxin Li, Xuefeng Cheng and Gaoqiang Chen
Materials 2024, 17(7), 1535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071535 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
As the central component in friction stir welding, the design and manufacture of welding tools for aluminum alloys have garnered substantial attention. However, the understanding of tool reliability during the welding process, especially in terms of fatigue performance, remains unclear. This paper focuses [...] Read more.
As the central component in friction stir welding, the design and manufacture of welding tools for aluminum alloys have garnered substantial attention. However, the understanding of tool reliability during the welding process, especially in terms of fatigue performance, remains unclear. This paper focuses on the welding of AA2219-T4 as a case study to elucidate the predominant failure mode of the tool during the friction stir welding (FSW) of aluminum alloys. Experimental methods, including FSW welding and fracture morphology analysis of the failed tool, coupled with numerical simulation, confirm that high-cycle mechanical fatigue fracture is the primary mode of the tool failure. Failures predominantly occur at the tool pin’s root and the shoulder end face with scroll concave grooves. The experimental and simulation results exhibit a noteworthy agreement, validating the reliability of the simulation model. The FSW Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) model developed in this study analyzes stress distribution and variation under the thermo-mechanical coupling effect of the tool. It reveals that stress concentration resulting from structural changes in the tool is the primary driver of fatigue crack initiation. This is attributed to exposure to alternating cyclic stresses such as bending, tension, and torsion at the tool pin’s root, manifesting as multiaxial composite mechanical fatigue. Among these stresses, bending alternating cyclic stress exerts the most significant influence. The paper employs the Tool Life module in DEFORM software to predict the fatigue life of the tool. Results indicate that reducing welding speed or increasing rotation speed can enhance the tool’s fatigue life to some extent. The methodology proposed in this paper serves as a valuable reference for optimizing FSW structures or processes to enhance the fatigue performance of welding tools. Full article
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20 pages, 32643 KiB  
Article
A Numerical Study of a Soil-Nail-Supported Excavation Pit Subjected to a Vertically Loaded Strip Footing at the Crest
by Meen-Wah Gui and Ravendra P. Rajak
Buildings 2024, 14(4), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14040927 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Soil nailing is a prevalent and cost-effective technique employed to reinforce and enhance the stability of precarious natural or cut slopes; however, its application as a primary support system to prevent collapses or cave-ins during foundation excavation could be more frequent. To better [...] Read more.
Soil nailing is a prevalent and cost-effective technique employed to reinforce and enhance the stability of precarious natural or cut slopes; however, its application as a primary support system to prevent collapses or cave-ins during foundation excavation could be more frequent. To better understand the behavior of such a support system, this study simulated a full-scale nail-supported excavation for the foundation pit of a 20-story building to examine the effect of placing a strip footing with various combinations of configurations on the crest of the excavation pit. The results are discussed in terms of the nail axial force, wall horizontal deflection, basal heave, and safety factor against sliding. The results show that the footing width and setback distance are the two most significant factors dominating the wall horizontal deflection. This study also reveals that the maximum axial force is closely related to the apparent active earth pressure, which accounts for the presence of a tension crack, at nail depth. Such a finding allows engineers to assess and mitigate the risks of structural failure more effectively and optimize the design of nail-retaining structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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12 pages, 269 KiB  
Article
Nutritional, Utility, and Sensory Quality and Safety of Sunflower Oil on the Central European Market
by Kristina Nakonechna, Vojtech Ilko, Markéta Ber?íková, Vladimír Vietoris, Zdeňka Panovská and Marek Dole?al
Agriculture 2024, 14(4), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14040536 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
In the quality monitoring of 18 sunflower oil samples from the EU market, 14 were refined and 4 were cold-pressed. They demonstrated high quality of technological processing with low values of trans-unsaturated fatty acids, acid value, and peroxide value and also met [...] Read more.
In the quality monitoring of 18 sunflower oil samples from the EU market, 14 were refined and 4 were cold-pressed. They demonstrated high quality of technological processing with low values of trans-unsaturated fatty acids, acid value, and peroxide value and also met the limits set by legislation in the content of process contaminants 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) esters and glycidyl esters. Measurements of oxidative stability showed a difference in utility value. The average induction period of the oils from the traditional varieties was 2.6 h, predisposing them to cold cooking or short-term frying, while the 11.8 h of the four high oleic sunflower oils (HOSO) indicates the possibility of long-term heat stress. The nutritional benefit is the average vitamin E content of 663 mg/kg oil. The overall sensory quality of the samples was evaluated by a 12-member panel of trained assessors. On the seven-point category scale, the oils were of good to exceptional quality. The cold-pressed oils (CPOs) differed in having, on average, lower trans-unsaturated fatty acid content, process contaminants at unmeasurable levels, and, on average, higher vitamin E concentrations. The specific organoleptic properties of the CPOs were characterized by a pleasant nutty and sunflower seed flavor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Agricultural Product Quality and Safety)
17 pages, 3080 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Straw Mulching Methods to Control Soil and Water Losses on Loess Sloped Farmland
by Xinkai Zhao, Xiaoyu Song, Danyang Wang, Lanjun Li, Pengfei Meng, Chong Fu, Long Wang, Wanyin Wei, Nan Yang, Yu Liu and Huaiyou Li
Agronomy 2024, 14(4), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040696 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Straw mulching is a key method for controlling soil and water losses. Mulching costs may be reduced by applying it in strips rather than over entire areas. However, the effect of different straw mulching methods on the effectiveness of reducing soil erosion is [...] Read more.
Straw mulching is a key method for controlling soil and water losses. Mulching costs may be reduced by applying it in strips rather than over entire areas. However, the effect of different straw mulching methods on the effectiveness of reducing soil erosion is unclear. In this study, the effects of straw mulching strip length (covering 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 4/4 of the slope length) and coverage rate (0.2, 0.5, and 0.8 kg m−2) on interception, infiltration, runoff, and soil erosion were investigated at the plot scale using rainfall simulation experiments. The further complex correlations between these variables were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Bare slopes were used as a control group. The rainfall intensity was chosen to be 60 mm h−1. The results showed that (1) the modified Merriam interception model can describe the change in interception with time under straw mulching conditions well (R2 > 0.91, NSE > 0.75). (2) A total of 35.39–78.79% of the rainwater is converted into infiltration on straw-covered slopes, while this proportion is 36.75% on bare slopes. The proportion of rainwater converted to infiltration was greatest (78.79%) when the straw covered 3/4 of the slope length at a coverage rate of 0.5 kg m−2, which was the most conducive to rainwater harvesting on the slope. (3) Straw mulching protects the topsoil from the impact of raindrops and directly affects the sediment yield (direct effect = −0.44). Straw mulching can also indirectly affect sediment yield by increasing interception, reducing runoff, and decreasing the sediment carrying capacity of runoff (indirect effect = −0.83). Compared with bare slopes, straw covering at least 1/2 of the slope length can significantly reduce runoff yield, but straw covering only 1/4 of the slope length can significantly reduce sediment yield. Moreover, once the straw mulch slope length reaches 3/4 and the coverage rate reaches 0.5 kg m−2, further increases in mulch slope length and coverage rate will not significantly reduce the runoff and sediment yields. These results assessed the effectiveness of different straw mulching methods in controlling soil and water losses on sloping farmland. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)
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20 pages, 4226 KiB  
Article
Performance of Mg/Al and Zn/Al Hydroxide Double Lamellar-Bentonite for Removal of Anionic Azo Dye from Aqueous Solution
by Mohammed Mustapha Bouhent, Kahina Bentaleb, Abdulrahman Al-Ameri and Ulrich Maschke
Processes 2024, 12(4), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12040677 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper presents the preparation and characterization of bentonite coated with hydroxide double lamellar Mg/Al-bentonite and Zn/Al-bentonite as a potential adsorbent material. The coating process involved co-precipitation of mixed metal nitrate solution (Mg-Al) or (Zn-Al), followed by immersion of bentonite (B-Na+) [...] Read more.
This paper presents the preparation and characterization of bentonite coated with hydroxide double lamellar Mg/Al-bentonite and Zn/Al-bentonite as a potential adsorbent material. The coating process involved co-precipitation of mixed metal nitrate solution (Mg-Al) or (Zn-Al), followed by immersion of bentonite (B-Na+) dispersion. The structures and morphologies of the coated bentonites were characterized using XRD, FTIR, BET, and SEM analysis. The results of the BET analysis indicate that Mg/Al-bentonite and Zn/Al-bentonite have larger surface areas and pore volumes compared to bentonite alone. Specifically, the surface area of Mg/Al-bentonite is 209.25 m2/g with a pore volume of 0.423 cm3/g, while Zn/Al-bentonite has a surface area of 175.95 m2/g and a pore volume of 0.313 cm3/g. In contrast, the surface area and pore volume of bentonite alone are 110.43 m2/g and 0.132 cm3/g, respectively. The Mg/Al-bentonite reaches 85% uptake within 3 h (equivalent to 724.20 mg/g at 25 °C and pH 7), achieving rapid equilibrium. In contrast, the Zn/Al-bentonite achieves a maximum adsorption of 74% within 5 h under identical pH and temperature conditions, corresponding to 650.34 mg/g. The error function values, including the correlation coefficient R2, chi-square test χ2, and residual sum of squares RSS, were calculated to evaluate both kinetic and isotherm models. The kinetic adsorption data agreed well with a pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption process followed the Sips isotherm model, and the monolayer adsorption capacity of Mg/Al-bent and Zn/Al-bent composites was 872.41 (R2 = 0.974) and 678.45 mg/g (R2 = 0.983), respectively. The thermodynamic analysis of the adsorption process revealed that it occurred spontaneously with an endothermic characteristic. The parameters ΔS, ΔH, and ΔG were used to determine this. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Adsorption of Wastewater Pollutants)
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12 pages, 2641 KiB  
Article
The Net Clinical Outcome of Dual-Pathway Inhibition in Clinical Practice: The “Xarelto plus Acetylsalicylic Acid: Treatment Patterns and Outcomes in Patients with Atherosclerosis” Registry
by Alexander Breitenstein, Alain Gay, Kai Vogtl?nder, Keith A. A. Fox and Jan Steffel
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1956; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071956 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: In the COMPASS trial, the combination of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) plus 2.5 mg rivaroxaban twice daily (dual-pathway inhibition, DPI) has been shown to be superior to ASA monotherapy for the reduction in ischemic major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs, i.e., cardiovascular death, [...] Read more.
Background: In the COMPASS trial, the combination of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) plus 2.5 mg rivaroxaban twice daily (dual-pathway inhibition, DPI) has been shown to be superior to ASA monotherapy for the reduction in ischemic major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs, i.e., cardiovascular death, stroke, or myocardial infarction). Methods: The international XATOA registry (Xarelto plus Acetylsalicylic acid: Treatment patterns and Outcomes in patients with Atherosclerosis) is a prospective post-approval registry that investigates the cardiovascular outcomes of patients taking ASA plus 2.5 mg rivaroxaban. The aim of this pre-specified analysis was to determine the net clinical outcome (NCO), i.e., a combination of MACEs and bleeding events, of DPI in patients from daily clinical practice. Results: Among the 5615 patients, the presence of multiple risk factors resulted in an increase in the total risk of experiencing an NCO event, e.g., from 1.27% (one risk factor) to 2.18% (two risk factors) and 4.07% (three or more risk factors), respectively, with ischemic MACE representing the primary driver of bleeding complications. Conclusions: In the real-world XATOA registry, the annual rate of NCO events was low and numerically similar to those seen in the treatment group in the randomized COMPASS trial. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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11 pages, 1108 KiB  
Article
Emergency First Responders’ Misconceptions about Suicide: A Descriptive Study
by Elena Victoria Ayala Romera, Rosa María Sánchez Santos, Giulio Fenzi, Juan Antonio García Méndez and Jose Luis Díaz Agea
Nurs. Rep. 2024, 14(2), 777-787; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep14020060 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: In 2022, suicide was the second leading cause of external death in Spain (the first among young people aged 15–29 years). This study aims to analyze the presence of myths among emergency first responders and identify the most prevalent false beliefs among [...] Read more.
Background: In 2022, suicide was the second leading cause of external death in Spain (the first among young people aged 15–29 years). This study aims to analyze the presence of myths among emergency first responders and identify the most prevalent false beliefs among them. Methods: The research is a observational and descriptive study carried out using a questionnaire composed of a total of 25 myths, with the response options being true or false. A total of 543 professionals took part in the study. All of them could intervene before, during, and after a suicide attempt. Results: The main finding of the study is that more than 50% of the participants accept as true the statement "There are more serious and less serious problems", underlining the idea that caring for patients could be related to the importance the health professional gives to the patients’ problem. Myths such as “The suicidal person wants to die” and “The suicidal person is determined to die” are also evident. Conclusion: The subjective thought the first responder has about suicide could affect their acts, and there is a need to train first responders in suicidal behavior to be able to create an adequate approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nursing Care and Clinical Management in the Post-Pandemic Era)
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13 pages, 1811 KiB  
Article
Serum Levels of S100A8/A9 as a Biomarker of Disease Activity in Patients with IgA Vasculitis
by Sasa Srsen, Martina Held, Mario Sestan, Nastasia Kifer, Ana Kozmar, Daniela Supe Domic, Benjamin Benzon, Alenka Gagro, Marijan Frkovic and Marija Jelusic
Biomedicines 2024, 12(4), 750; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12040750 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
S100A8/A9 protein is a well-known marker of disease activity or severity in many autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, but there have not been many studies about the role of S100A8/A9 in IgA vasculitis (IgAV). The aim of our study was to evaluate S100A8/A9 as [...] Read more.
S100A8/A9 protein is a well-known marker of disease activity or severity in many autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, but there have not been many studies about the role of S100A8/A9 in IgA vasculitis (IgAV). The aim of our study was to evaluate S100A8/A9 as a possible biomarker of activity in IgAV. We measured the serum levels of S100A8/A9 in pediatric patients with IgA vasculitis at the onset of the disease, after three months, and after six months. We compared these levels between patients with active disease, remission, and a control group, and assessed their correlation with disease activity and other markers of inflammation. Patients with active disease had significantly higher levels of serum S100A8/A9 (median ± SD) than those in the control group at the beginning of the disease (5740 ± 3157 ng/mL vs. 1447 ± 858.3 ng/mL; p < 0.0001), but also three months and six months after disease onset (p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between S100A8/A9 serum levels and disease activity (p = 0.0003). Patients with active disease had significantly higher levels of S100A8/A9 than those in remission three months after disease onset (p = 0.0260). There was a correlation between S100A8/A9 and C-reactive protein, the C3 component of complement, ferritin, and fibrinogen. Serum levels of S100A8/A9 were also higher in patients with greater skin areas covered with rash. We demonstrated that serum levels of S100A8/A9 correlated well with disease activity and other biomarkers of inflammation in children with IgAV. According to our results, serum S100A8/A9 may be a good indicator of active disease in IgAV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Immunotherapy)
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28 pages, 26981 KiB  
Article
Micro- and Macro-Scale Topology Optimization of Multi-Material Functionally Graded Lattice Structures
by Jerónimo Santos, Abdolrasoul Sohouli and Afzal Suleman
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(4), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8040124 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Lattice structures are becoming an increasingly attractive design approach for the most diverse engineering applications. This increase in popularity is mainly due to their high specific strength and stiffness, considerable heat dissipation, and relatively light weight, among many other advantages. Additive manufacturing techniques [...] Read more.
Lattice structures are becoming an increasingly attractive design approach for the most diverse engineering applications. This increase in popularity is mainly due to their high specific strength and stiffness, considerable heat dissipation, and relatively light weight, among many other advantages. Additive manufacturing techniques have made it possible to achieve greater flexibility and resolution, enabling more complex and better-performing lattice structures. Unrestricted material unit cell designs are often associated with high computational power and connectivity problems, and highly restricted lattice unit cell designs may not reach the optimal desired properties despite their lower computational cost. This work focuses on increasing the flexibility of a restricted unit cell design while achieving a lower computational cost. It is based on a two-scale concurrent optimization of the lattice structure, which involves simultaneously optimizing the topology at both the macro- and micro-scales to achieve an optimal topology. To ensure a continuous optimization approach, surrogate models are used to define material and geometrical properties. The elasticity tensors for a lattice unit cell are obtained using an energy-based homogenization method combined with voxelization. A multi-variable parameterization of the material unit cell is defined to allow for the synthesis of functionally graded lattice structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Modelling of Composites, Volume III)
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Article
Jasmonate Promotes Ester Aroma Biosynthesis during Nanguo Pears Storage
by Liyong Qi, Chuhan Li, Jianan Sun, Weiting Liu, Yueming Yang, Xiaojing Li, Hongjian Li, Yuqi Du, Islam Mostafa and Zepeng Yin
Horticulturae 2024, 10(4), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040329 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been known to confer the flavor of fruits, characterizing the quality of fruits. Nanguo pear (Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim.) is widely popular among consumers due to its excellent ‘fruity’ aroma derived from ester aroma substances. Jasmonate (JAs) plays [...] Read more.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been known to confer the flavor of fruits, characterizing the quality of fruits. Nanguo pear (Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim.) is widely popular among consumers due to its excellent ‘fruity’ aroma derived from ester aroma substances. Jasmonate (JAs) plays an indispensable role in the formation of many qualities in fruit. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the effect of jasmonate on the VOCs in the Nanguo pear fruit during storage. During storage, the fruits were treated with various concentrations of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and sodium diethyldithiocarbamate (DIECA, a JAs inhibitor), the inhibitors of JAs biosynthesis. Subsequently, the composition and levels of VOCs in the fruits were determined using GC-MS. The results showed that 100 uM MeJA treatment could promote the accumulation of ester aroma compounds in Nanguo pear fruits, while 100 mM DIECA had the opposite effect. Meantime, MeJA treatment significantly promoted peel degreening, soluble solids content (SSC), fruit softening, and ethylene formation. The RT-qPCR results showed that JAs stimulated the expression of PuAAT1 and repressed the expression of PuCXEs, leading to an increased accumulation of ester aroma compounds. Overall, these results provide a reference for further research on the effect of JAs on fruit aroma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Physiology Studies in Fruit Development and Ripening)
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11 pages, 4122 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of a Novel 3D Extrusion Bioink Containing Processed Human Articular Cartilage Matrix for Cartilage Tissue Engineering
by Alexandra Hunter Aitchison, Nicholas B. Allen, Isabel R. Shaffrey, Conor N. O’Neill, Bijan Abar, Albert T. Anastasio and Samuel B. Adams
Bioengineering 2024, 11(4), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11040329 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Cartilage damage presents a significant clinical challenge due to its intrinsic avascular nature which limits self-repair. Addressing this, our study focuses on an alginate-based bioink, integrating human articular cartilage, for cartilage tissue engineering. This novel bioink was formulated by encapsulating C20A4 human articular [...] Read more.
Cartilage damage presents a significant clinical challenge due to its intrinsic avascular nature which limits self-repair. Addressing this, our study focuses on an alginate-based bioink, integrating human articular cartilage, for cartilage tissue engineering. This novel bioink was formulated by encapsulating C20A4 human articular chondrocytes in sodium alginate, polyvinyl alcohol, gum arabic, and cartilage extracellular matrix powder sourced from allograft femoral condyle shavings. Using a 3D bioprinter, constructs were biofabricated and cross-linked, followed by culture in standard medium. Evaluations were conducted on cellular viability and gene expression at various stages. Results indicated that the printed constructs maintained a porous structure conducive to cell growth. Cellular viability was 87% post printing, which decreased to 76% after seven days, and significantly recovered to 86% by day 14. There was also a notable upregulation of chondrogenic genes, COL2A1 (p = 0.008) and SOX9 (p = 0.021), suggesting an enhancement in cartilage formation. This study concludes that the innovative bioink shows promise for cartilage regeneration, demonstrating substantial viability and gene expression conducive to repair and suggesting its potential for future therapeutic applications in cartilage repair. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Bone and Cartilage Tissue Engineering)
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11 pages, 430 KiB  
Article
Revisiting the Surface Brightness Profile of the Stellar Disk with the Statistical Mechanics of the Self-Gravitating System with the Central Body
by Dong-Biao Kang
Entropy 2024, 26(4), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26040297 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
We have explored the exponential surface brightness profile (SBP) of stellar disks, a topic extensively discussed by many authors yet seldom integrated with the study of correlations between black holes, bulges, and entire disks. Building upon our prior work in the statistical mechanics [...] Read more.
We have explored the exponential surface brightness profile (SBP) of stellar disks, a topic extensively discussed by many authors yet seldom integrated with the study of correlations between black holes, bulges, and entire disks. Building upon our prior work in the statistical mechanics of disk-shaped systems and aligning with methodologies from other research, we analyze the influence of the central body. This analysis reveals analytical relationships among black holes, bulges, and the entire stellar disk. Additionally, we incorporate a specific angular momentum distribution (SAMD) that aligns more closely with observational data, showing that for the self-gravitating disk, with the same surface density, a reduction in its spin results in only a slight decrease in its radius, whereas with the same SAMD, an increment in its spin significantly limits its extent. A key feature of our model is its prediction that the surface density profile of an isolated disk will invariably exhibit downbending at a sufficient distance, a hypothesis that future observations can test. Our refined equations provide a notably improved fit for SBPs, particularly in the central regions of stellar disks. While our findings underscore the significance of statistical mechanics in comprehending spiral galaxy structures, they also highlight areas in our approach that warrant further discussion and exploration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Statistical Mechanics of Self-Gravitating Systems)
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20 pages, 6068 KiB  
Article
A Real-Time Prediction Approach to Deep Soil Moisture Combining GNSS-R Data and a Water Movement Model in Unsaturated Soil
by Xiaotian Luo, Cong Yin, Yueqiang Sun, Weihua Bai, Wei Li and Hongqing Song
Water 2024, 16(7), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16070979 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Deep soil moisture data have wide applications in fields such as engineering construction and agricultural production. Therefore, achieving the real-time monitoring of deep soil moisture is of significant importance. Current soil monitoring methods face challenges in conducting the large-scale, real-time monitoring of deep [...] Read more.
Deep soil moisture data have wide applications in fields such as engineering construction and agricultural production. Therefore, achieving the real-time monitoring of deep soil moisture is of significant importance. Current soil monitoring methods face challenges in conducting the large-scale, real-time monitoring of deep soil moisture. This paper innovatively proposes a real-time prediction approach to deep soil moisture combining GNSS-R data and a water movement model in unsaturated soil. This approach, built upon surface soil moisture data retrieved from GNSS-R signal inversion, integrates soil–water characteristics and soil moisture values at a depth of 1 m. By employing a deep soil moisture content prediction model, it provides predictions of soil moisture at depths from 0 to 1 m, thus realizing the large-scale, real-time dynamic monitoring of deep soil moisture. The proposed approach was validated in a study area in Goodwell, Texas County, Oklahoma, USA. Predicted values of soil moisture at a randomly selected location in the study area at depths of 0.1 m, 0.2 m, 0.5 m, and 1 m were compared with ground truth values for the period from 25 October to 19 November 2023. The results indicated that the relative error (δ) was controlled within the range of ±14%. The mean square error (MSE) ranged from 2.90 × 105 to 1.88 × 104, and the coefficient of determination (R2) ranged from 82.45% to 89.88%, indicating an overall high level of fitting between the predicted values and ground truth data. This validates the feasibility of the proposed approach, which has the potential to play a crucial role in agricultural production, geological disaster management, engineering construction, and heritage site preservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Geophysical Methods for Hydrogeology)
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16 pages, 3823 KiB  
Article
Transcriptional Changes in Radiation-Induced Lung Injury: A Comparative Analysis of Two Radiation Doses for Preclinical Research
by Mohamed El-Agamy Farh, Hyun-Jin Kim, Sang-Yeon Kim, Jae-Hee Lee, Hajeong Lee, Ronglan Cui, Soorim Han, Dong Wook Kim, Sunjoo Park, Yoon-Jin Lee, Yun-Sil Lee, Insuk Sohn and Jaeho Cho
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3766; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073766 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
In a recent stereotactic body radiation therapy animal model, radiation pneumonitis and radiation pulmonary fibrosis were observed at around 2 and 6 weeks, respectively. However, the molecular signature of this model remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the molecular characteristics at these [...] Read more.
In a recent stereotactic body radiation therapy animal model, radiation pneumonitis and radiation pulmonary fibrosis were observed at around 2 and 6 weeks, respectively. However, the molecular signature of this model remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the molecular characteristics at these two stages using RNA-seq analysis. Transcriptomic profiling revealed distinct transcriptional patterns for each stage. Inflammatory response and immune cell activation were involved in both stages. Cell cycle processes and response to type II interferons were observed during the inflammation stage. Extracellular matrix organization and immunoglobulin production were noted during the fibrosis stage. To investigate the impact of a 10 Gy difference on fibrosis progression, doses of 45, 55, and 65 Gy were tested. A dose of 65 Gy was selected and compared with 75 Gy. The 65 Gy dose induced inflammation and fibrosis as well as the 75 Gy dose, but with reduced lung damage, fewer inflammatory cells, and decreased collagen deposition, particularly during the inflammation stage. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant overlap, but differences were observed and clarified in Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analysis, potentially influenced by changes in interferon-gamma-mediated lipid metabolism. This suggests the suitability of 65 Gy for future preclinical basic and pharmaceutical research connected with radiation-induced lung injury. Full article
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