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11 pages, 2479 KiB  
Article
Antihistamine Medication Blunts Localized-Vibration-Induced Increases in Popliteal Blood Flow
by Devin Needs, Jonathan Blotter, Gilbert W. Fellingham, Glenn Cruse, Jayson R. Gifford, Aaron Wayne Johnson and Jeffrey Brent Feland
Vibration 2024, 7(2), 351-361; https://doi.org/10.3390/vibration7020017 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Localized vibration (LV) of the lower leg increases arterial blood flow (BF). However, it is unclear how LV causes this increase. Understanding the mechanisms of this response could lead to the optimized future use of LV as a therapy. One possible mechanism of [...] Read more.
Localized vibration (LV) of the lower leg increases arterial blood flow (BF). However, it is unclear how LV causes this increase. Understanding the mechanisms of this response could lead to the optimized future use of LV as a therapy. One possible mechanism of LV-mediated BF is through histamine release by mechanosensitive mast cells. The purpose of this study was to measure the BF response of 21 recreationally active young adults (11 male, 10 female, mean age 22.1 years) after 47 Hz and 10 min LV to the calf, with and without antihistamine medication (180 mg Fexofenadine). Each participant received both control (no antihistamine) and antihistamine (treatment) conditions separated by at least 24 h. BF ultrasound measurements (mean and peak blood velocity, volume flow, popliteal diameter, and heart rate) were taken before LV therapy and periodically for 19 min post LV. Using a cell means mixed model, we found that LV significantly increased the control mean blood velocity immediately post LV but did not significantly increase the antihistamine mean blood velocity immediately post LV. Therefore, we hypothesize that a primary mechanism of LV increase in BF is histamine release from mechano-sensing mast cells, and that this response is force-dependent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Vibration)
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11 pages, 872 KiB  
Article
Teaming up Radio and Sub-mm/FIR Observations to Probe Dusty Star-Forming Galaxies
by Meriem Behiri, Marika Giulietti, Vincenzo Galluzzi, Andrea Lapi, Elisabetta Liuzzo and Marcella Massardi
Galaxies 2024, 12(2), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/galaxies12020014 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we investigate the benefits of teaming up data from the radio to the far-infrared (FIR) regime for the characterization of dusty star-forming galaxies (DSFGs). These galaxies are thought to be the star-forming progenitors of local massive quiescent galaxies and to [...] Read more.
In this paper, we investigate the benefits of teaming up data from the radio to the far-infrared (FIR) regime for the characterization of dusty star-forming galaxies (DSFGs). These galaxies are thought to be the star-forming progenitors of local massive quiescent galaxies and to play a pivotal role in the reconstruction of the cosmic star formation rate density up to high redshift. Due to their dust-enshrouded nature, DSFGs are often invisible in the near-infrared/optical/UV bands. Therefore, they necessitate observations at longer wavelengths, primarily the FIR band, where dust emission occurs, and the radio band, which is not affected by dust absorption. Combining data from these two spectral windows makes it possible to characterize even the dustiest objects, enabling the retrieval of information about their age, dust temperature, and star-formation status, and facilitates the differentiation between various galaxy populations that evolve throughout cosmic history. Despite the detection of faint radio sources being a challenging task, this study demonstrates that an effective strategy to build statistically relevant samples of DSFGs would be reaching deep sensitivities in the radio band, even restricted to smaller areas, and then combining these radio observations with FIR/submm data. Additionally, this paper quantifies the improvement in the spectral energy distribution (SED) reconstruction of DSFGs by incorporating ALMA band measurements, in particular, in its upgraded status thanks to the anticipated Wideband Sensitivity Upgrade. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Observation and Detection of Dusty Star-Forming Galaxies)
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26 pages, 991 KiB  
Review
More than Just Bread and Wine: Using Yeast to Understand Inherited Cytochrome Oxidase Deficiencies in Humans
by Chenelle A. Caron-Godon, Emma Collington, Jessica L. Wolf, Genna Coletta and D. Moira Glerum
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3814; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073814 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Inherited defects in cytochrome c oxidase (COX) are associated with a substantial subset of diseases adversely affecting the structure and function of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. This multi-subunit enzyme consists of 14 subunits and numerous cofactors, and it requires the function of some [...] Read more.
Inherited defects in cytochrome c oxidase (COX) are associated with a substantial subset of diseases adversely affecting the structure and function of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. This multi-subunit enzyme consists of 14 subunits and numerous cofactors, and it requires the function of some 30 proteins to assemble. COX assembly was first shown to be the primary defect in the majority of COX deficiencies 36 years ago. Over the last three decades, most COX assembly genes have been identified in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and studies in yeast have proven instrumental in testing the impact of mutations identified in patients with a specific COX deficiency. The advent of accessible genome-wide sequencing capabilities has led to more patient mutations being identified, with the subsequent identification of several new COX assembly factors. However, the lack of genotype–phenotype correlations and the large number of genes involved in generating a functional COX mean that functional studies must be undertaken to assign a genetic variant as being causal. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the use of yeast as a model system and briefly compare the COX assembly process in yeast and humans. We focus primarily on the studies in yeast that have allowed us to both identify new COX assembly factors and to demonstrate the pathogenicity of a subset of the mutations that have been identified in patients with inherited defects in COX. We conclude with an overview of the areas in which studies in yeast are likely to continue to contribute to progress in understanding disease arising from inherited COX deficiencies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Yeast as a Model System to Study Human Diseases)
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12 pages, 1488 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Inulin Addition on Rice Dough and Bread Characteristics
by Iva Bure?ová, Romana ?ebestíková, Jaromír ?ebela, Anna Adámková, Magdalena Zvonková, Nela Skowronková and Ji?í Ml?ek
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2882; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072882 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Inulin may be widely used in in the food industry due to its many health benefits. It has the potential to increase the insufficient nutritional quality of gluten-free bread. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the applicability of inulin in [...] Read more.
Inulin may be widely used in in the food industry due to its many health benefits. It has the potential to increase the insufficient nutritional quality of gluten-free bread. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the applicability of inulin in rice baking. The impact of added inulin (5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%) on the dough’s rheological, bread’s textural and sensory characteristics was evaluated. The extensibility of rice dough during uniaxial deformation tests (8.5 mm) was improved by the added inulin (10.2–12.3 mm). The presence of inulin softened the dough and shifted the gelatinization temperature toward higher values. The added inulin also increased the loaf’s specific volume (1.16–1.48 mL/g), tenderized the breadcrumbs, increased the crumb porosity (36–58%), and generally improved the crumb structure. The panelists favored the sensory characteristics of breads with inulin. However, baking losses were increased in these breads as well (15.1–18.5%). The effect of the added inulin on the dough and bread characteristics generally rose with an increasing addition of inulin, reaching the maximum in samples with 30% inulin. The presence of 40% inulin deteriorated some characteristics of the bread. Therefore, the addition of up to 30% of inulin seemed to be optimal for rice bread. Full article
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17 pages, 8563 KiB  
Article
Research on the Vision-Based Dairy Cow Ear Tag Recognition Method
by Tianhong Gao, Daoerji Fan, Huijuan Wu, Xiangzhong Chen, Shihao Song, Yuxin Sun and Jia Tian
Sensors 2024, 24(7), 2194; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24072194 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
With the increase in the scale of breeding at modern pastures, the management of dairy cows has become much more challenging, and individual recognition is the key to the implementation of precision farming. Based on the need for low-cost and accurate herd management [...] Read more.
With the increase in the scale of breeding at modern pastures, the management of dairy cows has become much more challenging, and individual recognition is the key to the implementation of precision farming. Based on the need for low-cost and accurate herd management and for non-stressful and non-invasive individual recognition, we propose a vision-based automatic recognition method for dairy cow ear tags. Firstly, for the detection of cow ear tags, the lightweight Small-YOLOV5s is proposed, and then a differentiable binarization network (DBNet) combined with a convolutional recurrent neural network (CRNN) is used to achieve the recognition of the numbers on ear tags. The experimental results demonstrated notable improvements: Compared to those of YOLOV5s, Small-YOLOV5s enhanced recall by 1.5%, increased the mean average precision by 0.9%, reduced the number of model parameters by 5,447,802, and enhanced the average prediction speed for a single image by 0.5 ms. The final accuracy of the ear tag number recognition was an impressive 92.1%. Moreover, this study introduces two standardized experimental datasets specifically designed for the ear tag detection and recognition of dairy cows. These datasets will be made freely available to researchers in the global dairy cattle community with the intention of fostering intelligent advancements in the breeding industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Smart Agriculture)
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10 pages, 2420 KiB  
Article
The Separation Behavior of TiB2 during Cl2-Free Degassing Treatment of 5083 Aluminum Melt
by Cong Li, Mertol G?kelma, Wolfram Stets and Bernd Friedrich
Metals 2024, 14(4), 402; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14040402 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Utilizing titanium diboride (TiB2) inoculation for grain-refining purposes is a widely established practice in aluminum casthouses and foundries. Since this inoculation is usually implemented jointly with or between routine melt treatment steps ahead of casting, it is important to know whether [...] Read more.
Utilizing titanium diboride (TiB2) inoculation for grain-refining purposes is a widely established practice in aluminum casthouses and foundries. Since this inoculation is usually implemented jointly with or between routine melt treatment steps ahead of casting, it is important to know whether and how other melt treatment processes affect the fade of TiB2 particles. For the present study, we investigated the influence of degassing process on the separation behavior of TiB2 particles in aluminum melt. Multiple sampling methods were employed and the samples were analyzed via spectrometer analysis. The removal efficiency of TiB2 during the gas-purging process of 5083 aluminum melt was confirmed to be significant over 10 min of treatment time. The rate at which the TiB2 content decays was found to increase with the impeller rotary speed from 400 rounds per minute (rpm) to 700 rpm. The separation rate of TiB2 particles was obtained to be 0.05–0.08 min−1 by fitting the experimental data. Particle mapping results suggest that the TiB2 particles were separated to a dross layer. The obtained experimental results were used to quantitatively evaluate the conventional deterministic flotation model. The deviation between the conventional model and the experimental data was explained through the entrainment–entrapment (EE) model. Suggestions were made for future analytical and experimental works which may validate the EE model. Full article
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15 pages, 1406 KiB  
Review
Biomarkers in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus along with Metabolic Syndrome
by Fernanda Isadora Corona-Meraz, Mónica Vázquez-Del Mercado, Flavio Sandoval-García, Jesus-Aureliano Robles-De Anda, Alvaro-Jovanny Tovar-Cuevas, Roberto-Carlos Rosales-Gómez, Milton-Omar Guzmán-Ornelas, Daniel González-Inostroz, Miguel Pe?a-Nava and Beatriz-Teresita Martín-Márquez
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1988; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071988 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of physiological abnormalities characterized by obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and hypertriglyceridemia, which carry the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Immune and metabolic alterations have been observed in MetS and are associated [...] Read more.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of physiological abnormalities characterized by obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and hypertriglyceridemia, which carry the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Immune and metabolic alterations have been observed in MetS and are associated with autoimmune development. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease caused by a complex interaction of environmental, hormonal, and genetic factors and hyperactivation of immune cells. Patients with SLE have a high prevalence of MetS, in which elevated CVD is observed. Among the efforts of multidisciplinary healthcare teams to make an early diagnosis, a wide variety of factors have been considered and associated with the generation of biomarkers. This review aimed to elucidate some primary biomarkers and propose a set of assessments to improve the projection of the diagnosis and evolution of patients. These biomarkers include metabolic profiles, cytokines, cardiovascular tests, and microRNAs (miRs), which have been observed to be dysregulated in these patients and associated with outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment)
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22 pages, 7829 KiB  
Review
Exploring GIS Techniques in Sea Level Change Studies: A Comprehensive Review
by Justine Sarrau, Khaula Alkaabi and Saif Obaid Bin Hdhaiba
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2861; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072861 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Sea level change, a consequence of climate change, poses a global threat with escalating impacts on coastal regions. Since 1880, global mean sea level has risen by 8–9 inches (21–24 cm), reaching a record high in 2021. Projections by NOAA suggest an additional [...] Read more.
Sea level change, a consequence of climate change, poses a global threat with escalating impacts on coastal regions. Since 1880, global mean sea level has risen by 8–9 inches (21–24 cm), reaching a record high in 2021. Projections by NOAA suggest an additional 10–12-inch increase by 2050. This paper explores research methodologies for studying sea level change, focusing on Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques. GIS has become a powerful tool in sea level change research, allowing the integration of spatial data, coastal process modeling, and impact assessment. This paper sets the link with sustainability and reviews key factors influencing sea level change, such as thermal expansion and ice-mass loss, and examines how GIS is applied. It also highlights the importance of using different scenarios, like Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP), for accurate predictions. The paper discusses data sources, index variables like the Coastal Vulnerability Index, and GIS solutions for modeling sea level rise impacts. By synthesizing findings from previous research, it contributes to a better understanding of GIS methodologies in sea level change studies. This knowledge aids policymakers and researchers in developing strategies to address sea level change challenges and enhance coastal resilience. Furthermore, global analysis highlights the pivotal roles of the United States and China in sea level change (SLC) and GIS research. In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, rising temperatures have substantial impacts on local sea levels and extreme weather events, particularly affecting vulnerable coastal areas. Full article
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21 pages, 577 KiB  
Article
A Range of Pandemic Adjustments: Changes to Texas Heritage Site Business Operations during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Savesila Tamima, Elyse Zavar, Brendan L. Lavy and Ronald L. Schumann III
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2860; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072860 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
During the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, heritage sites, which protect natural and cultural resources, experienced the dauting task of sustaining business operations during the pandemic while serving the public by preserving and conserving resources. These businesses undertook risk reduction measures, conceptualized [...] Read more.
During the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, heritage sites, which protect natural and cultural resources, experienced the dauting task of sustaining business operations during the pandemic while serving the public by preserving and conserving resources. These businesses undertook risk reduction measures, conceptualized as adjustments, to mitigate the spread of disease while maintaining business operations. By engaging with Gilbert White’s (1942) Adjustment Theory, this study examines the adjustments made by Texas heritage sites in response to emerging risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, we analyze adjustments made to reduce risk to visitors, financial stability, and programmatic offerings; explore the extent to which these adjustments facilitated sustainability, business expansion, and innovation; and identify what factors contributed to or hindered their recovery. This mixed-methods study employed an online survey and a follow-up semi-structured phone interview with heritage site managers. Our findings indicate Texas heritage sites implemented a range of fiscal and health related adjustments in response to the pandemic. Specific to fiscal adjustments, we found changes in visitors led to adjustments in business operations which also facilitated revenue generation for these entities. We also observed how new opportunities arose from the health adjustments in the form of remote offerings and new markets. Our findings emphasize the importance of adjustments made by heritage sites to continue their operations during the pandemic while also offering strategies to mitigate future risks. Full article
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14 pages, 287 KiB  
Article
Propaedeutic and Therapeutic Practices Used for Retained Fetal Membranes by Rural European Veterinary Practitioners
by Christian Hanzen and Hamza Rahab
Animals 2024, 14(7), 1042; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071042 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The present study aimed to monitor the practices of European veterinarians for the diagnosis and treatment of retained fetal membranes in cattle. A questionnaire was established and distributed to veterinarians from five European countries. A total of 700 veterinarians participated in the survey. [...] Read more.
The present study aimed to monitor the practices of European veterinarians for the diagnosis and treatment of retained fetal membranes in cattle. A questionnaire was established and distributed to veterinarians from five European countries. A total of 700 veterinarians participated in the survey. A vaginal examination, general examination and uterine palpation are carried out by 71%, 38% and 23% of veterinarians, respectively. Moreover, half of the veterinarians attempt to remove the placenta manually, 70% of them administer a combined local and general treatment if the cow has a fever (more than 39.5 °C), and 50% of them only administer IU treatment if no fever is observed. Tetracyclins, cefapirin and penicillins are the most used intrauterine (IU) antibiotics, whereas penicillin is the most used parenteral one. All other European veterinarians were less likely to use cefapirin and more likely to use oxytocin, Ca perfusion and NSAID than French and Walloon veterinarians. In conclusion, our study confirms the necessity of improving and rationalizing the diagnostic and therapeutic approach of the RFM, mainly to reduce the important problem of antibiotic resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
18 pages, 7080 KiB  
Article
Exploring Non-Thermal Plasma and UV Radiation as Biofilm Control Strategies against Foodborne Filamentous Fungal Contaminants
by Markéta Kuli?ová, Michaela Rabochová, Jan Lorin?ík, Tomá? Brányik, Jan Hrudka, Vladimír Scholtz and Irena Jaro?ová Kolouchová
Foods 2024, 13(7), 1054; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071054 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In recent years, non-thermal plasma (NTP) has emerged as a promising tool for decontamination and disinfection within the food industry. Given the increasing resistance of microbial biofilms to conventional disinfectants and their adverse environmental effects, this method has significant potential for eliminating biofilm [...] Read more.
In recent years, non-thermal plasma (NTP) has emerged as a promising tool for decontamination and disinfection within the food industry. Given the increasing resistance of microbial biofilms to conventional disinfectants and their adverse environmental effects, this method has significant potential for eliminating biofilm formation or mitigating the metabolic activity of grown biofilms. A comparative study was conducted evaluating the efficacy of UV radiation and NTP in eradicating mature biofilms of four common foodborne filamentous fungal contaminants: Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium culmorum, and Fusarium graminearum. The findings reveal that while UV radiation exhibits variable efficacy depending on the duration of exposure and fungal species, NTP induces substantial morphological alterations in biofilms, disrupting hyphae, and reducing extracellular polymeric substance production, particularly in A. alternata and F. culmorum. Notably, scanning electron microscopy analysis demonstrates significant disruption of the hyphae in NTP-treated biofilms, indicating its ability to penetrate the biofilm matrix, which is a promising outcome for biofilm eradication strategies. The use of NTP could offer a more environmentally friendly and potentially more effective alternative to traditional disinfection methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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15 pages, 698 KiB  
Article
Effects of Manual Therapy Plus Pain Neuroscience Education with Integrated Motivational Interviewing in Individuals with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial Study
by Konstantinos Kasimis, Thomas Apostolou, Ilias Kallistratos, Dimitrios Lytras and Paris Iakovidis
Medicina 2024, 60(4), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60040556 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) persists beyond 12 weeks. Manual therapy recommended for CNLBP demonstrates short-term efficacy. Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) teaches patients to modify pain perception through explanations, metaphors, and examples, targeting brain re-education. Motivational Interviewing (MI) [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) persists beyond 12 weeks. Manual therapy recommended for CNLBP demonstrates short-term efficacy. Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) teaches patients to modify pain perception through explanations, metaphors, and examples, targeting brain re-education. Motivational Interviewing (MI) enhances motivation for behavioral change, steering patients away from ambivalence and uncertainty. These approaches collectively address the multifaceted nature of CNLBP for effective management. The aim of this study was to investigate a manual therapy intervention combined with PNE with MI on pain, pressure pain threshold (PPT), disability, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, and low back functional ability in individuals experiencing CNLBP. Materials and Methods: Sixty adults with CNLBP were randomly divided into three equal groups (each n = 20). The first group received manual therapy and PNE with integrated MI (combined therapy group), the second group underwent only manual therapy (manual therapy group), and the third group followed a general exercise program at home (control group). Pain in the last 24 h was assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), functional ability with the Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), PPT in the lumbar region through pressure algometry, kinesiophobia with the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), catastrophizing with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), and performance using the Back Performance Scale (BPS) at baseline, in the fourth week, and six months post-intervention. Results: Statistically significant differences between the intervention groups and the control group were found in both the fourth-week measurement and the six-month follow-up, as evident in the NPRS and RMDQ scores, as well as in the total values of tested PPTs (p < 0.05). Differences were also observed between the two intervention groups, with a statistically greater improvement in the combined therapy group at both time points (fourth week and six-month follow-up) (p < 0.05). Regarding the TSK and PCS scores in the fourth week, statistically significant differences were observed between the two intervention groups compared to the control group, as well as between the two intervention groups (p < 0.05). However, in the six-month follow-up, statistically significant differences were found only between the combined therapy group and the other two groups, with the combined therapy group showing significant improvements (p < 0.05). In relation to BPS, both intervention groups exhibited statistically significant differences compared to the control group in the fourth week, without any significant differences between the two intervention groups. However, in the six-month follow-up, significant differences were noted between the combined therapy group and the other two groups (p < 0.05), with combined therapy demonstrating greater improvement. Conclusions: The addition of PNE with integrated MI enhanced the positive effects of a manual therapy intervention in all outcome measures. The combination of manual therapy plus PNE with integrated MI appeared to provide greater improvements compared to the isolated application of manual therapy, and these improvements also lasted longer. These short- and long-term positive effects are likely attributed to the combination of PNE with integrated MI, which contributed to increasing the effectiveness of the treatment. Further studies are required to investigate the optimum dosage of manual therapy and PNE with integrated MI in individuals with CNLBP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurology)
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26 pages, 4888 KiB  
Article
Designing a Reverse Logistics Network for End-of-Life Vehicles in an Uncertain Environment
by Meiling He, Qipeng Li, Tianhe Lin, Jiangyang Fan, Xiaohui Wu and Xun Han
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(4), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15040140 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The strategic development of reverse logistics networks is crucial for addressing the common challenge of low recovery rates for end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) in China. To minimize the total cost of the reverse logistics network for ELVs, this paper proposes a mixed-integer linear programming [...] Read more.
The strategic development of reverse logistics networks is crucial for addressing the common challenge of low recovery rates for end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) in China. To minimize the total cost of the reverse logistics network for ELVs, this paper proposes a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model. The model considers the recycling volume of different vehicle types, facility processing capacity, and the proportions of parts and materials. Building on this foundation, a fuzzy mixed-integer nonlinear programming (FMINLP) model is developed to account for the inherent uncertainty associated with recycling volumes and facility processing capacities. The model was solved using Lingo, and its effectiveness was validated using Jiangsu Province of China as a case study, followed by a sensitivity analysis. The results indicate that dismantling and machining centers incur the highest processing costs. Variations in recycling volume and facility handling capacity significantly impact total costs and site selection, with the former having a more pronounced effect. Increasing facility processing capacity effectively increases the recovery rate. Moreover, a higher confidence level corresponds to higher total costs and a greater demand for facilities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Vehicle System Dynamics and Control)
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17 pages, 10416 KiB  
Article
Approach and Management of Pregnancies with Risk Identified by Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing
by Miruna Gug, Adrian Ra?iu, Nicoleta Andreescu, Simona Farca?, Sorina Laitin and Cristina Gug
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(4), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14040366 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study represents our second investigation into NIPT, involving a more extensive patient cohort with a specific emphasis on the high-risk group. The high-risk group was subsequently divided into two further groups to compare confirmed cases versus unconfirmed via direct methods. The methodology [...] Read more.
This study represents our second investigation into NIPT, involving a more extensive patient cohort with a specific emphasis on the high-risk group. The high-risk group was subsequently divided into two further groups to compare confirmed cases versus unconfirmed via direct methods. The methodology encompassed the analysis of 1400 consecutive cases from a single genetic center in western Romania, where NIPT was used to assess the risk of specific fetal chromosomal abnormalities. All high-risk cases underwent validation through direct analysis of fetal cells obtained via invasive methods, including chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis. The confirmation process utilized QF-PCR, karyotyping, and SNP-Array methods customized to each case. Results: A high risk of aneuploidy at NIPT was identified in 36 out of 1400 (2.57%) cases and confirmed in 28 cases. The study also detected an increased risk for copy number variations (CNVs) in 1% of cases, confirmed in two instances involving one large microdeletion and one large microduplication. Trisomy 21 was the exclusive anomaly where NIPT confirmed all cases with identified risk. High-risk NIPT results which were not validated by invasive methods, were classified as false positives; parents in these cases determined to continue the pregnancy. In conclusion, NIPT can serve as a screening method for all pregnancies; however, in high-risk cases, an invasive confirmation test is strongly recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Approaches to Prenatal Screening and Diagnosis)
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22 pages, 5687 KiB  
Article
Load Frequency Active Disturbance Rejection Control Based on Improved Particle Swarm Optimization
by Jidong Wang and Yu Sun
Electronics 2024, 13(7), 1268; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13071268 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
A load frequency control (LFC) system based on active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) is designed to solve the problem of frequency modulation caused by large-scale renewable energy grid connection. Traditional parameter-tuning methods are inefficient and often fail to achieve desired control outcomes. To [...] Read more.
A load frequency control (LFC) system based on active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) is designed to solve the problem of frequency modulation caused by large-scale renewable energy grid connection. Traditional parameter-tuning methods are inefficient and often fail to achieve desired control outcomes. To overcome this, an improved Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm is introduced, incorporating Levy flight and chaotic mapping. This enhanced algorithm combines the long step–length search capability of Levy flight with the rapid exploration of initial solution space using Tent chaotic mapping, enhancing PSO’s global search ability and addressing premature convergence issues. Simulation results demonstrate that the ADRC controller optimized by the improved algorithm exhibits greater robustness and smaller deviation compared to the original algorithm, showcasing its excellent control performance. Full article
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17 pages, 1202 KiB  
Article
Boosting Tomato Resilience in Tanzania: Grafting to Combat Bacterial Wilt and Abiotic Stress
by Shem Elias Msabila, Thibault Nordey, Zablon Ernest, Nickson Mlowe, Ravishankar Manickam, Srinivasan Ramasamy and Jo?l Huat
Horticulturae 2024, 10(4), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040338 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The grafting technique has successfully mitigated crop losses from diseases and stress in vegetable production; however, vegetable grafting in Tanzania is very limited. Field and greenhouse experiments conducted in Tanzania’s mainland and islands compared the response of tomato determinate cv. ‘Tanya’ to production [...] Read more.
The grafting technique has successfully mitigated crop losses from diseases and stress in vegetable production; however, vegetable grafting in Tanzania is very limited. Field and greenhouse experiments conducted in Tanzania’s mainland and islands compared the response of tomato determinate cv. ‘Tanya’ to production challenges when ungrafted and grafted onto five tomato rootstocks (‘Hawaii 7796’, ‘Tengeru 1997’, ‘Tengeru 2010’, ‘R3034’, and ‘Shelter’), one eggplant variety (‘EG 203’), and one wild Solanum species (Solanum elaeagnifolium). The visual symptoms of bacterial wilt varied significantly with location and season, ranging from 8 to 100%, attributed to varying bacterial wilt pressures and strains of Ralstonia solanacearum isolated (Phylotype I sequevars 17, 18, and 31). ‘EG203’ and ‘Hawaii 7796’ emerged as the most effective rootstocks, reducing wilting by 49.8 and 51.0% and improving yield by 57.2% and 27.7% on average across experiments conducted in three locations (Moshi, Pemba, and Unguja) over two seasons. Combining reduced water supply with grafting resulted in an average reduction in wilting of 76%, while also boosting yields by an average of 3.6 times in experiments conducted in Arusha over two seasons. Grafting onto ‘Hawaii 7796’ and ‘Shelter’ significantly improved ‘Tanya’ yields by 38.3% and 41.6% on average over two seasons, only under standard nutrient application rates. While certain rootstocks improved crop performance, yields across various sites and seasons were significantly hampered by pest pressure. These findings support grafting’s potential to mitigate damage from common stresses, emphasizing the need for further research to identify suitable rootstocks for optimizing returns on investments in grafted plants in Tanzania. Full article
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18 pages, 6488 KiB  
Article
Characteristics of DOM and Their Relationships with Potentially Toxic Elements in the Inner Mongolia Section of the Yellow River, China
by Kuo Wang, Juan Jiang, Yuanrong Zhu, Qihao Zhou, Xiaojie Bing, Yidan Tan, Yuyao Wang and Ruiqing Zhang
Toxics 2024, 12(4), 250; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12040250 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The characterization of dissolved organic matter (DOM) is important for better understanding of the migration and transformation mechanisms of DOM in water bodies and its interaction with other contaminants. In this work, fluorescence characteristics and molecular compositions of the DOM samples collected from [...] Read more.
The characterization of dissolved organic matter (DOM) is important for better understanding of the migration and transformation mechanisms of DOM in water bodies and its interaction with other contaminants. In this work, fluorescence characteristics and molecular compositions of the DOM samples collected from the mainstream, tributary, and sewage outfall of the Inner Mongolia section of the Yellow River (IMYR) were determined by using fluorescence spectroscopy and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS). In addition, concentrations of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the relevant surface water and their potential relationships with DOM were investigated. The results showed that the abundance of tyrosine-like components increased significantly in downstream waters impacted by outfall effluents and was negatively correlated with the humification index (HIX). Compared to the mainstream, outfall and tributaries have a high number of molecular formulas and a higher proportion of CHOS molecular formulas. In particular, the O5S class has a relative intensity of 41.6% and the O5-7S class has more than 70%. Thirty-eight PTEs were measured in the surface water samples, and 12 found above their detective levels at all sampling sites. Protein-like components are positively correlated with Cu, which is likely indicating the source of Cu in the aquatic environment of the IMYR. Our results demonstrated that urban wastewater discharges significantly alter characteristics and compositions of DOM in the mainstream of IMYR with strongly anthropogenic features. These results and conclusions are important for understanding the role and sources of DOM in the Yellow River aquatic environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data Science for Environmental Chemical Monitoring)
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13 pages, 10917 KiB  
Article
Morphology Characteristics of the Liquid–Vapour Interface in Porous Media
by Yu Zhang and Yi Dong
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2881; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072881 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The evolution of the liquid–vapour interface plays a crucial role in multiphase flow, heat and mass transfer, and fluid phase change in porous media. A thorough investigation of the interface under varying degrees of saturation is necessary and crucial to fully understanding the [...] Read more.
The evolution of the liquid–vapour interface plays a crucial role in multiphase flow, heat and mass transfer, and fluid phase change in porous media. A thorough investigation of the interface under varying degrees of saturation is necessary and crucial to fully understanding the key mechanism of soil water evaporation. The pore voids and fluids are characterized using X-ray microtomography and image processing. Salt solutions usually replace pure water for better contrast and image development. Machine learning algorithms were employed to identify and extract the different phase and their interface accurately. Then, variations in the geometrical and topological features of the interface at varying saturation during evaporation were analysed to quantitatively describe the connectivity of the liquid phase and the morphological change in the liquid–vapour interface. Topological analysis reveals that normalized Euler characteristic numbers quantify the complementary connectivity of liquid and vapour phase. The curvatures of the liquid–vapour interface of the samples under various saturations classify the liquid–air interface curvature of samples under various saturations for quantitatively describing the migration progress and quantity distribution of typical interface along with drying. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Civil Engineering)
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10 pages, 1480 KiB  
Article
The Role of Index of Microcirculatory Resistance in Left Anterior Descending Artery ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients after Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
by Seong Huan Choi, Sung Gyun Ahn, Myeong Ho Yoon, Kyoung-Woo Seo, Ki-Jeung Lee, Sung Woo Kwon, Sang-Don Park and Seong-Ill Woo
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 1989; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13071989 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Our aim was to assess the relationship of the index of microvascular resistance (IMR) in left anterior descending (LAD) artery involved STEMI patients. Methods: Data of 316 STEMI patients who had undergone primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were collected from [...] Read more.
Background: Our aim was to assess the relationship of the index of microvascular resistance (IMR) in left anterior descending (LAD) artery involved STEMI patients. Methods: Data of 316 STEMI patients who had undergone primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were collected from three cardiovascular centers from 2005 to 2015. In total, 246 patients with LAD STEMI were enrolled for IMR evaluation. Patients were divided into two groups respective of the cut-off IMR value of 30. All-cause mortality, left ventricular function, improvement of systolic function, and cardiac biomarkers were analyzed and compared. Results: A total of 246 patients were enrolled. The number of patients in the IMR above 30 group was 93 and below 30 was 153. The mean ages for each group were 57.91 ± 11.99 and 54 ± 10.63, respectively. The peak creatinine kinase (CK) (3936.85 ± 2827.32 IU/L vs. 2218.08 ± 2310.41 IU/L, p < 0.001) and CKmb (336.15 ± 195.08 mg/mL vs. 231.53 ± 179.53 mg/mL, p < 0.001) levels were higher for an IMR above the 30 group. The left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (44.57 ± 6.685% vs. 47.35 ± 8.17%, p = 0.006) and improvement of LVEF (2.81 ± 7.135% vs. 5.88 ± 7.65%, p = 0.004) was lower in the IMR above 30 group. All-cause mortality (7.5% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.012) was higher in the IMR above 30 group, and a Cox regression analysis showed that an IMR above 30 was a poor prognostic factor regarding all-cause mortality (HR: 5.151, 95% CI 1.062–24.987, p = 0.042) even after adjusting for classical clinical risk factors. Conclusions: An elevated IMR value represented larger infarct size, more severe LV dysfunction, and higher mortality in LAD STEMI patients after successful PCI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
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16 pages, 835 KiB  
Review
Plant Immunity against Tobamoviruses
by Xiyin Zheng, Yiqing Li and Yule Liu
Viruses 2024, 16(4), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16040530 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Tobamoviruses are a group of plant viruses that pose a significant threat to agricultural crops worldwide. In this review, we focus on plant immunity against tobamoviruses, including pattern-triggered immunity (PTI), effector-triggered immunity (ETI), the RNA-targeting pathway, phytohormones, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and autophagy. [...] Read more.
Tobamoviruses are a group of plant viruses that pose a significant threat to agricultural crops worldwide. In this review, we focus on plant immunity against tobamoviruses, including pattern-triggered immunity (PTI), effector-triggered immunity (ETI), the RNA-targeting pathway, phytohormones, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and autophagy. Further, we highlight the genetic resources for resistance against tobamoviruses in plant breeding and discuss future directions on plant protection against tobamoviruses. Full article
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19 pages, 4737 KiB  
Article
SEB-YOLO: An Improved YOLOv5 Model for Remote Sensing Small Target Detection
by Yan Hui, Shijie You, Xiuhua Hu, Panpan Yang and Jing Zhao
Sensors 2024, 24(7), 2193; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24072193 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Due to the limited semantic information extraction with small objects and difficulty in distinguishing similar targets, it brings great challenges to target detection in remote sensing scenarios, which results in poor detection performance. This paper proposes an improved YOLOv5 remote sensing image target [...] Read more.
Due to the limited semantic information extraction with small objects and difficulty in distinguishing similar targets, it brings great challenges to target detection in remote sensing scenarios, which results in poor detection performance. This paper proposes an improved YOLOv5 remote sensing image target detection algorithm, SEB-YOLO (SPD-Conv + ECSPP + Bi-FPN + YOLOv5). Firstly, the space-to-depth (SPD) layer followed by a non-strided convolution (Conv) layer module (SPD-Conv) was used to reconstruct the backbone network, which retained the global features and reduced the feature loss. Meanwhile, the pooling module with the attention mechanism of the final layer of the backbone network was designed to help the network better identify and locate the target. Furthermore, a bidirectional feature pyramid network (Bi-FPN) with bilinear interpolation upsampling was added to improve bidirectional cross-scale connection and weighted feature fusion. Finally, the decoupled head is introduced to enhance the model convergence and solve the contradiction between the classification task and the regression task. Experimental results on NWPU VHR-10 and RSOD datasets show that the mAP of the proposed algorithm reaches 93.5% and 93.9%respectively, which is 4.0% and 5.3% higher than that of the original YOLOv5l algorithm. The proposed algorithm achieves better detection results for complex remote sensing images. Full article
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25 pages, 6011 KiB  
Article
Tea-Derived Polyphenols Enhance Drought Resistance of Tea Plants (Camellia sinensis) by Alleviating Jasmonate–Isoleucine Pathway and Flavonoid Metabolism Flow
by Haoming Zuo, Jiahao Chen, Zhidong Lv, Chenyu Shao, Ziqi Chen, Yuebin Zhou and Chengwen Shen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3817; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073817 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Extreme drought weather has occurred frequently in recent years, resulting in serious yield loss in tea plantations. The study of drought in tea plantations is becoming more and more intensive, but there are fewer studies on drought-resistant measures applied in actual production. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Extreme drought weather has occurred frequently in recent years, resulting in serious yield loss in tea plantations. The study of drought in tea plantations is becoming more and more intensive, but there are fewer studies on drought-resistant measures applied in actual production. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effect of exogenous tea polyphenols on the drought resistance of tea plant by pouring 100 mg·L−1 of exogenous tea polyphenols into the root under drought. The exogenous tea polyphenols were able to promote the closure of stomata and reduce water loss from leaves under drought stress. Drought-induced malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in tea leaves and roots was also significantly reduced by exogenous tea polyphenols. Combined transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses showed that exogenous tea polyphenols regulated the abnormal responses of photosynthetic and energy metabolism in leaves under drought conditions and alleviated sphingolipid metabolism, arginine metabolism, and glutathione metabolism in the root system, which enhanced the drought resistance of tea seedlings. Exogenous tea polyphenols induced jasmonic acid–isoleucine (JA-ILE) accumulation in the root system, and the jasmonic acid–isoleucine synthetase gene (TEA028623), jasmonic acid ZIM structural domain proteins (JAMs) synthesis genes (novel.22237, TEA001821), and the transcription factor MYC2 (TEA014288, TEA005840) were significantly up-regulated. Meanwhile, the flavonoid metabolic flow was significantly altered in the root; for example, the content of EGCG, ECG, and EGC was significantly increased. Thus, exogenous tea polyphenols enhance the drought resistance of tea plants through multiple pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Plant Sciences)
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21 pages, 4834 KiB  
Review
Progressive Age-Associated Blood–Brain Barrier Leak/Dysfunction-Nexus of Neurodegenerative Disease Using MRI Markers to Identify Preclinical Disease and Potential New Targets for Future Treatments
by Charles R. Joseph
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 726; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070726 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This review article focuses on the upstream pertinent pathophysiology leading to neurodegenerative disease. Specifically, the nexus appears to be blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakiness resulting in a two-prong inflammatory disease spectrum damaging the microvasculature and corrupting protein synthesis and degradation with accumulating misfolded toxic [...] Read more.
This review article focuses on the upstream pertinent pathophysiology leading to neurodegenerative disease. Specifically, the nexus appears to be blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakiness resulting in a two-prong inflammatory disease spectrum damaging the microvasculature and corrupting protein synthesis and degradation with accumulating misfolded toxic proteins. The suboptimal results of removing misfolded proteins mean a new approach to disease in the preclinical state is required aimed at other targets. Validated noninvasive imaging and serologic biomarkers of early preclinical disease implemented in the high-risk patient cohort along with periodic surveillance once effective treatments are developed will be required. This review discusses the physiology and pathophysiology of the BBB, new MRI imaging techniques identifying the leak, and altered fluid dynamic effects in the preclinical state. The risk factors for disease development, preventative measures, and potential treatment targets are also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Imaging of Stroke and Neurodegenerative Disorders)
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