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16 pages, 577 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Quantum Particle Swarm Optimization of Optimal Diet for Diabetic Patients

by Abdellah Ahourag, Zakaria Bouhanch, Karim El Moutaouakil and Abdellah Touhafi

Eng 2024, 5(4), 2544-2559; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng5040133 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

The dietary recommendations for individuals with diabetes focus on maintaining a balanced nutritional intake to manage blood sugar levels. This study suggests a nutritional strategy to improve glycemic control based on an analysis of a dietary optimization problem. The goal is to minimize [...] Read more.

The dietary recommendations for individuals with diabetes focus on maintaining a balanced nutritional intake to manage blood sugar levels. This study suggests a nutritional strategy to improve glycemic control based on an analysis of a dietary optimization problem. The goal is to minimize the overall glycemic loads (GLs) of specific foods. Two variations of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) method, as well as random quantum process optimization (GQPSO), are introduced. The findings demonstrate that the quantum and random methods are more effective than the traditional techniques in reducing the glycemic loads of diets and addressing nutritional deficiencies while also aligning nutrient intake with the recommended levels. The resolution of this diet optimization model, executed multiple times with adjustments to the parameters of both methods, enables dynamic exploration and provides a wide range of diverse and effective food choices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence for Engineering Applications)

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21 pages, 5170 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Semi-Supervised Encrypted Malicious Traffic Detection Based on Multimodal Traffic Characteristics

by Ming Liu, Qichao Yang, Wenqing Wang and Shengli Liu

Sensors 2024, 24(20), 6507; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24206507 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

The exponential growth of encrypted network traffic poses significant challenges for detecting malicious activities online. The scale of emerging malicious traffic is significantly smaller than that of normal traffic, and the imbalanced data distribution poses challenges for detection. However, most existing methods rely [...] Read more.

The exponential growth of encrypted network traffic poses significant challenges for detecting malicious activities online. The scale of emerging malicious traffic is significantly smaller than that of normal traffic, and the imbalanced data distribution poses challenges for detection. However, most existing methods rely on single-category features for classification, which struggle to detect covert malicious traffic behaviors. In this paper, we introduce a novel semi-supervised approach to identify malicious traffic by leveraging multimodal traffic characteristics. By integrating the sequence and topological information inherent in the traffic, we achieve a multifaceted representation of encrypted traffic. We design two independent neural networks to learn the corresponding sequence and topological features from the traffic. This dual-feature extraction enhances the model’s robustness in detecting anomalies within encrypted traffic. The model is trained using a joint strategy that minimizes both the reconstruction error from the autoencoder and the classification loss, allowing it to effectively utilize limited labeled data alongside a large amount of unlabeled data. A confidence-estimation module enhances the classifier’s ability to detect unknown attacks. Finally, our method is evaluated on two benchmark datasets, UNSW-NB15 and CICIDS2017, under various scenarios, including different training set label ratios and the presence of unknown attacks. Our model outperforms other models by 3.49% and 5.69% in F1 score at labeling rates of 1% and 0.1%, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue IoT Cybersecurity)

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10 pages, 4013 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tuneable Red and Blue Emission of Bi³⁺-Co-Doped SrF₂:Eu³⁺ Nanophosphors for LEDs in Agricultural Applications

by Jovana Periša, Sanja Kuzman, Aleksandar Ćirić, Zoran Ristić, Željka Antić, Miroslav D. Dramićanin and Bojana Milićević

Nanomaterials 2024, 14(20), 1617; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14201617 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Tunable blue/red dual-emitting Eu³⁺-doped, Bi³⁺-sensitized SrF₂ phosphors were synthesized utilizing a solvothermal-microwave method. All phosphors have cubic structure (Fm-3m (225) space group) and well-distinct sphere-like particles with a size of ~20 nm, as examined by [...] Read more.

Tunable blue/red dual-emitting Eu³⁺-doped, Bi³⁺-sensitized SrF₂ phosphors were synthesized utilizing a solvothermal-microwave method. All phosphors have cubic structure (Fm-3m (225) space group) and well-distinct sphere-like particles with a size of ~20 nm, as examined by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The diffuse reflectance spectra reveal a redshift of the absorption band in the UV region as the Bi³⁺ concentration in SrF₂: Eu³⁺ phosphor increases. Under the 265 nm excitation, photoluminescence spectra show emission at around 400 nm from the host matrix and characteristic orange ⁵D₀ → ⁷F_1,2 and deep red ⁵D₀ → ⁷F₄ Eu³⁺ emissions. The red emission intensity increases with an increase in Bi³⁺ concentration up to 20 mol%, after which it decreases. The integrated intensity of Eu³⁺ red emission in the representative 20 mol% Bi³⁺ co-doped SrF₂:10 mol% Eu³⁺ shows twice as bright emission compared to the Bi³⁺-free sample. To demonstrate the potential application in LEDs for artificial light-based plant factories, the powder with the highest emission intensity, SrF₂: 10Eu, 20 Bi, was mixed with a ceramic binder and placed on top of a 275 nm UVC LED chip, showing pinkish violet light corresponding to blue (409 nm) and red (592, 614, and 700 nm) phosphors’ emission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Materials and Metal-Organic Frameworks)

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17 pages, 2554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Substrate Preferences and Interspecific Affinities of Antarctic Macroalgae: Insights from Maxwell Bay, King George Island

by Young Wook Ko, Kwon Mo Yang and Han-Gu Choi

Diversity 2024, 16(10), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16100628 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the diversity and ecological dynamics of macroalgae in Maxwell Bay, King George Island, Antarctica, focusing on species distribution, substrate composition, and interspecific interactions. Across nine survey sites, 31 macroalgal species were recorded, with 12 species identified as significant due to [...] Read more.

This study investigates the diversity and ecological dynamics of macroalgae in Maxwell Bay, King George Island, Antarctica, focusing on species distribution, substrate composition, and interspecific interactions. Across nine survey sites, 31 macroalgal species were recorded, with 12 species identified as significant due to their considerable relative frequency, coverage, and biomass. Palmaria decipiens was the most dominant species in terms of frequency and coverage, while Desmarestia anceps had the highest biomass. The study revealed distinct substrate preferences, with P. decipiens favoring cobble and mud substrates, and Himantothallus grandifolius associating predominantly with pebble substrates. A core group of species, including Plocamium sp., H. grandifolius, Picconiella plumosa, Iridaea sp., and Trematocarpus antarcticus, exhibited strong ecological interactions characterized by high substrate similarity and mutual affinity. In contrast, pioneer species like P. decipiens and Monostroma hariotii showed lower affinity with other species, reflecting their early successional roles. These findings enhance our understanding of the complex interspecific relationships within Antarctic macroalgal assemblage and provide valuable baseline data for future ecological studies in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)

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15 pages, 2050 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Elevating Wafer Defect Inspection with Denoising Diffusion Probabilistic Model

by Ping-Hung Wu, Thi Phuong Hoang, Yen-Ting Chou, Andres Philip Mayol, Yu-Wei Lai, Chih-Hsiang Kang, Yu-Cheng Chan, Siou-Zih Lin and Ssu-Han Chen

Mathematics 2024, 12(20), 3164; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12203164 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Integrated circuits (ICs) are critical components in the semiconductor industry, and precise wafer defect inspection is essential for maintaining product quality and yield. This study addresses the challenge of insufficient sample patterns in wafer defect datasets by using the denoising diffusion probabilistic model [...] Read more.

Integrated circuits (ICs) are critical components in the semiconductor industry, and precise wafer defect inspection is essential for maintaining product quality and yield. This study addresses the challenge of insufficient sample patterns in wafer defect datasets by using the denoising diffusion probabilistic model (DDPM) to produce generated defects that elevate the performance of wafer defect inspection. The quality of the generated defects was evaluated using the Fréchet Inception Distance (FID) score, which was then synthesized with real defect-free backgrounds to create an augmented defect dataset. Experimental results demonstrated that the augmented defect dataset significantly boosted performance, achieving 98.7% accuracy for YOLOv8-cls, 95.8% box mAP for YOLOv8-det, and 95.7% mask mAP for YOLOv8-seg. These results indicate that the generated defects produced by the DDPM can effectively enrich wafer defect datasets and enhance wafer defect inspection performance in real-world applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Statistics in Management Sciences)

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19 pages, 6021 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electron Density and Molecular Orbital Analyses of the Nature of Bonding in the η³-CCH Agostic Rhodium Complexes Preceding the C–C and C–H Bond Cleavages

by Irena Efremenko

Molecules 2024, 29(20), 4788; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29204788 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

In our recent work, we revisited C–H and C–C bond activation in rhodium (I) complexes of pincer ligands PCP, PCN, PCO, POCOP, and SCS. Our findings indicated that an η³-C_sp2C_sp3H agostic intermediate acts as a common precursor [...] Read more.

In our recent work, we revisited C–H and C–C bond activation in rhodium (I) complexes of pincer ligands PCP, PCN, PCO, POCOP, and SCS. Our findings indicated that an η³-C_sp2C_sp3H agostic intermediate acts as a common precursor to both C–C and C–H bond activation in these systems. We explore the electronic structure and bonding nature of these precleavage complexes using electron density and molecular orbital analyses. Using NBO, IBO, and ESI-3D methods, the bonding in the η³-CCH agostic moiety is depicted by two three-center agostic bonds: Rh–C_sp2–C_sp3 and Rh–C_sp3–H, with all three atoms datively bound to Rh(I). IBO analysis specifically highlights the involvement of three orbitals (CC→Rh and CH→Rh σ donation, plus Rh→CCH π backdonation) in both C–C and C–H bond cleavages. NCIPLOT and QTAIM analyses highlight anagostic (Rh–H) or β-agostic (Rh–C_sp2–H) interactions and the absence of Rh–C_sp³ interactions. QTAIM molecular graphs suggest bond path instability under dynamic conditions due to the nearness of line and ring critical points. Several low-frequency and low-force vibrational modes interconvert various bonding patterns, reinforcing the dynamic η³-CCH agostic nature. The kinetic preference for C–H bond breaking is attributed to the smaller reduced mass of C–H vibrations compared to C–C vibrations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Feature Papers on Molecular Structure)

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21 pages, 336 KiB

Open AccessArticle

British South Asian and Muslim Community’s Perceptions and Experiences of Addiction and Traditional Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services

by Zeibeda Sattar, Lydia Lochhead, Hayley Alderson, Monique Lhussier, Ruth McGovern and William McGovern

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(10), 1338; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21101338 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Within traditional drug and alcohol (D&A) treatment services, the majority of those accessing support are of white ethnicity, with only a small percentage of people from the British South Asian (BSA) and Muslim community engaging in treatment services. This paper aims to explore [...] Read more.

Within traditional drug and alcohol (D&A) treatment services, the majority of those accessing support are of white ethnicity, with only a small percentage of people from the British South Asian (BSA) and Muslim community engaging in treatment services. This paper aims to explore perceived barriers to accessing traditional D&A services within the British South Asian and Muslim communities, based on qualitative data from interviews with family members and a practitioner. Qualitative data were obtained via 11 semi-structured interviews involving a practitioner (n = 1), and family and friends (n = 10) of those with historic and current D&A use in the community. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed four themes: (1) awareness of drug and alcohol use in the community, (2) drug and alcohol use as a taboo topic and the impact of admitting use, (3) knowledge of services for treatment, (4) how to increase awareness and accessibility of treatment. There was an increasing awareness of D&A use in the BSA and Muslim community. Despite this, limited conversations and misconceptions around D&A use and recovery led to those using D&A and their family members feeling stigmatised within their community and unable to seek support. This paper concludes by recommending increased communication between the BSA and Muslim communities and D&A treatment services to ensure accessibility of treatment by improving cultural competency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Behavioral and Mental Health)

24 pages, 738 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tensor Core-Adapted Sparse Matrix Multiplication for Accelerating Sparse Deep Neural Networks

by Yoonsang Han, Inseo Kim, Jinsung Kim and Gordon Euhyun Moon

Electronics 2024, 13(20), 3981; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13203981 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Sparse matrix–matrix multiplication (SpMM) is essential for deep learning models and scientific computing. Recently, Tensor Cores (TCs) on GPUs, originally designed for dense matrix multiplication with mixed precision, have gained prominence. However, utilizing TCs for SpMM is challenging due to irregular memory access [...] Read more.

Sparse matrix–matrix multiplication (SpMM) is essential for deep learning models and scientific computing. Recently, Tensor Cores (TCs) on GPUs, originally designed for dense matrix multiplication with mixed precision, have gained prominence. However, utilizing TCs for SpMM is challenging due to irregular memory access patterns and a varying number of non-zero elements in a sparse matrix. To improve data locality, previous studies have proposed reordering sparse matrices before multiplication, but this adds computational overhead. In this paper, we propose Tensor Core-Adapted SpMM (TCA-SpMM), which leverages TCs without requiring matrix reordering and uses the compressed sparse row (CSR) format. To optimize TC usage, the SpMM algorithm’s dot product operation is transformed into a blocked matrix–matrix multiplication. Addressing load imbalance and minimizing data movement are critical to optimizing the SpMM kernel. Our TCA-SpMM dynamically allocates thread blocks to process multiple rows simultaneously and efficiently uses shared memory to reduce data movement. Performance results on sparse matrices from the Deep Learning Matrix Collection public dataset demonstrate that TCA-SpMM achieves up to 29.58× speedup over state-of-the-art SpMM implementations optimized with TCs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Compiler and Hardware Design Systems for High-Performance Computing)

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17 pages, 4497 KiB

Open AccessReview

Epidermal Growth Factor Intralesional Delivery in Chronic Wounds: The Pioneer and Standalone Technique for Reversing Wound Chronicity and Promoting Sustainable Healing

by Jorge Berlanga-Acosta, Ariana Garcia-Ojalvo, Jose Fernández-Montequin, Viviana Falcon-Cama, Nelson Acosta-Rivero, Gerardo Guillen-Nieto, Merardo Pujol-Ferrer, Miladys Limonta-Fernandez, Marta Ayala-Avila and Elof Eriksson

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(20), 10883; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252010883 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

The early expectations about growth factors’ (GFs’) discovery as an undisputed therapeutic solution for chronic wounds progressively eclipsed when they failed to accelerate acute wound closure and restore the healing trajectory of stagnant ulcers. Critical knowledge about chronic wound biology and GF pharmacology [...] Read more.

The early expectations about growth factors’ (GFs’) discovery as an undisputed therapeutic solution for chronic wounds progressively eclipsed when they failed to accelerate acute wound closure and restore the healing trajectory of stagnant ulcers. Critical knowledge about chronic wound biology and GF pharmacology was a conundrum at that time. Diabetes undermines keratinocytes’ and fibroblasts’ physiology, impairing skin healing abilities. Diabetic ulcers, as other chronic wounds, are characterized by hyperinflammation, unbalanced proteolytic activity, catabolism, and free radical cytotoxicity. This hostile scenario for the chemical stability, integrity, and functionality of GFs led to the conclusion that topical administration may jeopardize GFs’ clinical effectiveness. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) has a proximal position in tissues homeostasis by activating survival and mitogenic pathways from embryonic life to adulthood. Seminal experiments disclosed unprecedented pharmacological bounties of parenterally administered EGF. Accordingly, the experience accumulated for more than 20 years of EGF intralesional infiltration of diabetic wound bottoms and edges has translated into sustained healing responses, such as low recurrences and amputation rates. This delivery route, in addition to being safe and tolerated, has shown to restore a variety of circulating biochemical markers ordinarily disturbed in diabetic conditions. EGF infiltration triggers a cascade of local fibroblast reactions, supporting its molecular integrity, prolonged mean residence time, and ultimately eliciting its receptor trafficking and nuclear translocation. The intralesional delivery route seems to warrant that EGF reaches wound fibroblasts’ epigenetic core, mitigating the consequences of metabolic memory imprinting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Molecular Insights into Scar and Wounds)

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20 pages, 828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Digital Finance Embedded in Green Agricultural Development: Evidence from Agribusiness Enterprises in China

by Lu He, Lunzheng Zhou, Jiaguo Qi, Yan Song and Minghui Jiang

Land 2024, 13(10), 1649; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101649 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Digital inclusive agriculture refers to an agricultural development model that integrates various digital technologies into the agricultural production process, aiming to deliver benefits for all stakeholders throughout the agricultural value chain. This paper draws on the ecological symbiosis theory, embeds the concepts of [...] Read more.

Digital inclusive agriculture refers to an agricultural development model that integrates various digital technologies into the agricultural production process, aiming to deliver benefits for all stakeholders throughout the agricultural value chain. This paper draws on the ecological symbiosis theory, embeds the concepts of digital finance and social responsibility into the goal of green development in agriculture, selects 395 agribusiness enterprises in China from 2013 to 2022 as the analysis sample, and examines the impact by adopting an improved weighted least squares (WLS) fixed effects model. Results show that digital finance has a significant effect on the quantity and quality of green innovation in agribusiness enterprises, and good social responsibility performance can enhance the innovation promotion effect of digital finance. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that agribusiness belonging to the processing and distribution type, located in the eastern region, and in the growth stage benefit more clearly. This paper provides theoretical references and practical guidelines for solving agricultural financing problems, boosting their green innovation capacity in the digital age. It is of great practical significance for realizing the green symbiotic ecology of responsible agricultural industry, promoting the win–win situation between enterprises and society, and the high-quality development of agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role Played by Agriculture in Inland Areas)

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11 pages, 560 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Evaluation of Novaplex^TM Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay for Detection of Streptococcus agalactiae Serotypes

by Mallikarjun Handigund and Jaehyeon Lee

Microorganisms 2024, 12(10), 2043; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12102043 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Streptococcus agalactiae, or group B streptococcus (GBS), is a Gram-positive pathogen with an extended track record of colonization in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. GBS can induce disease in individuals across all age demographics, yet it predominantly triggers infections in neonates and [...] Read more.

Streptococcus agalactiae, or group B streptococcus (GBS), is a Gram-positive pathogen with an extended track record of colonization in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. GBS can induce disease in individuals across all age demographics, yet it predominantly triggers infections in neonates and the elderly. Identification of the serotype is vital for effective management of the disease as it provides critical information for clinicians on the cause of the disease. In this study, we evaluated the rapid, simple, and easy-to-adopt multiplex real-time PCR technique, Novaplex^TM (NovaPCR). A total of 131 clinical isolates of different serotypes were tested using NovaPCR. Observations revealed that 129 isolates showed the same observations as LA and conventional mPCR. NovaPCR accurately identified serotypes IV and V, which were first classified as serotype Ia in the LA test and mPCR, and the difference between the traditional (LA test and mPCR) and NovaPCR methods is only 1.52%. Accurate serotype identification is helpful for monitoring the epidemics and achieving optimal clinical outcomes, and NovaPCR showed a reliable, fast, easy-to-interpret, and cost-efficient performance in GBS serotyping. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Characterization and Treatment of Emerging Pathogens, Second Edition)

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14 pages, 3387 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occurrence, Bioaccumulation, and Potential Risks of Steroid Hormones in Freshwater Aquaculture Ponds in South China

by Shuang-Shuang Liu, Ya-Fang Li, Jia-Jia Ning, Lei Xu, Liang-Gen Wang, De-Lian Huang, Xue-Hui Wang, Que-Hui Tang and Fei-Yan Du

Water 2024, 16(20), 2872; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16202872 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Steroid hormones, recognized as emerging environmental contaminants, have garnered increasing attention in recent years. The present work studied the distribution characteristics in the environment, bioaccumulation in aquatic products, and the associated environmental and health risks of typical steroid hormones from commercial freshwater aquaculture [...] Read more.

Steroid hormones, recognized as emerging environmental contaminants, have garnered increasing attention in recent years. The present work studied the distribution characteristics in the environment, bioaccumulation in aquatic products, and the associated environmental and health risks of typical steroid hormones from commercial freshwater aquaculture farms operating under different aquaculture modes (monoculture and polyculture). Totals of 9 and 14 steroid hormones were detected in water and sediment samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.66 ± 0.17 ng/L to 40.5 ± 5.08 ng/L and from 0.36 ± 0.08 ng/g to 123 ± 19.9 ng/g, respectively. Hazard index (HI) calculations indicated that all sampling locations were identified as medium or high risk for both water and sediment matrices. Nineteen steroids were detected in at least one type of tissue, with the concentrations in the bile, plasma, muscle, liver, and gill ranging from <LOQ to 52.6 ± 4.82 ng/L, from <LOQ to 41.9 ± 4.80 ng/L, from 0.36 ± 0.07 ng/g to 321 ± 19.1 ng/g, from <LOQ to 1140 ± 107 ng/g, and from 0.36 ± 0.03 ng/g to 1450 ± 239 ng/g, respectively. Furthermore, four synthetic steroid hormones exhibited significant bioaccumulation across various tissues, such as MLA in bile and 5α-DHP in muscle, liver, and gill (BAF > 5000 L/kg). Notably, despite low estimated daily intakes (EDIs) (0.43–6.43 ng/day/person to 18.7 ng/day/person) and hazard quotients (HQs) (below 4.188 × 10⁻⁷), the high bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) underscore the necessity for stringent regulatory measures by local governments. Additionally, a comparison of EDI results across different aquaculture modes and fish species revealed that steroid hormone-related health risks to humans are influenced by both the fish species and the aquaculture mode. This study indicated that the consumption of poly-cultured fish (e.g., bighead carp) may pose a greater steroid-related health risk, compared to the consumption of mono-cultured fish. Full article

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15 pages, 2029 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Open-Source Tool for Composite Power System Reliability Assessment in Julia™

by Josif Figueroa, Kush Bubbar and Greg Young-Morris

Energies 2024, 17(20), 5023; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17205023 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

This paper introduces an open-source tool capable of performing the Composite System Reliability evaluation developed in the high-level, dynamic Julia™ programming language. Employing Monte Carlo Simulation and parallel computing, the tool evaluates probabilistic adequacy indices for combined generation and transmission systems, focusing on [...] Read more.

This paper introduces an open-source tool capable of performing the Composite System Reliability evaluation developed in the high-level, dynamic Julia™ programming language. Employing Monte Carlo Simulation and parallel computing, the tool evaluates probabilistic adequacy indices for combined generation and transmission systems, focusing on both individual delivery points and the broader system. Proficiency in Optimal Power Flow problem formulations is demonstrated through two distinct methods: DC and linearized AC, enabling comprehensive resource and transmission adequacy analysis with high-performance solvers. Addressing replicability and the insufficiency of available software, the tool supports diverse analyses on a unified platform. The paper discusses the tool’s design and validation, particularly focusing on the two optimal power flow problem formulations. These insights significantly contribute to understanding transmission system performance and have implications for power system planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section F: Electrical Engineering)

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14 pages, 319 KiB

Open AccessReview

Autoimmune Health Crisis: An Inclusive Approach to Addressing Disparities in Women in the United States

by Syreen Goulmamine, Sarah Chew and Irene O. Aninye

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(10), 1339; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21101339 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Autoimmune diseases are identified by the chronic inflammation and tissue damage resulting from unregulated immune responses throughout the body. Systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are among the 80+ characterized conditions, 80% of which are diagnosed in women. The [...] Read more.

Autoimmune diseases are identified by the chronic inflammation and tissue damage resulting from unregulated immune responses throughout the body. Systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are among the 80+ characterized conditions, 80% of which are diagnosed in women. The compounded effects of biological sex and hormones; social identities, such as age, race, and gender; and other determinants on health highlight a pressing need for an inclusive approach to address disparities for women living with autoimmune diseases. Such an approach must recognize and incorporate intersectional experiences of diverse populations of women into biomedical research, clinical practice, and policy solutions. Research must prioritize inclusive designs, data collection, and representation of women in clinical studies. Clinical care must focus on developing guidelines and promoting patient–provider interactions that meet a range of demographic needs. Health care policies must support financial investments in research and equitable access to care. This review provides an overview of the impacts of autoimmune diseases on women’s health through an intersectional lens, identifies persistent gaps in addressing the unique needs of women, and proposes recommendations for a comprehensive, equity-focused approach to mitigate disparities and better serve all women at risk for or living with autoimmune diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenging Health Disparities through the Promotion of Health Equity)

12 pages, 5084 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Essential Features in Developing a Novel Femoral Stem Reflecting Anatomical Features of East Asian Population: A Morphological Study

by Ji Hoon Bahk, Seung-Beom Han, Kee Hyung Rhyu, Jeong Joon Yoo, Seung-Jae Lim, Kwan Kyu Park, Sang-Min Kim and Young Wook Lim

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(20), 6030; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13206030 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Background: Recent advancements in hip arthroplasty aim to enhance the stability, longevity, and functionality of femoral implants. However, the distal fitting of femoral stems, often caused by metaphyseal–diaphyseal mismatch, remains a significant issue, particularly in patients with Dorr type A femora. Such [...] Read more.

Background: Recent advancements in hip arthroplasty aim to enhance the stability, longevity, and functionality of femoral implants. However, the distal fitting of femoral stems, often caused by metaphyseal–diaphyseal mismatch, remains a significant issue, particularly in patients with Dorr type A femora. Such mismatches can result in suboptimal implant performance, leading to potential complications. This study focuses on evaluating the anatomical compatibility of five representative single-tapered wedge mid–short stems with the mediolateral (ML) anatomy of the proximal femur in an East Asian population, where these mismatches are often more pronounced. Methods: A total of 742 patients from two hospitals, all of whom underwent unilateral primary total hip arthroplasty, were included in the study. The contralateral proximal femur was confirmed to have normal anatomy in each patient. Hip anteroposterior radiographs were used for measurements, which were standardized in conjunction with CT images. Key anatomical parameters were measured, including proximal and distal medial–lateral canal dimensions, vertical offset, and medial offset. Five femoral stem designs—Tri-lock^®, Taperloc^®, Anthology^®, Accolade II^®, and Fit^®—were evaluated. R programming was employed for a detailed fit analysis to match stem sizes with patient anatomy, categorizing the fit as proximal, simultaneous proximal–distal, or distal engagement. Results: Among the femoral stems analyzed, the Fit^® stem demonstrated the closest alignment with the regression line for ML widths in the study population (slope = 0.69; population ML slope = 0.38). This was followed by Accolade II^®, which had a slope of 0.83. In terms of offset options, the Accolade II^® offered the largest offset coverage, making it particularly suitable for this population. The fit analysis revealed that the Fit^® stem had the highest suitable fit rate (90.56%), followed by Accolade II^® (73.04%). Taperloc^®, Anthology^®, and Tri-lock^® had similar fit rates of approximately 59%. Overall, optimal results were obtained for 92.05% of the population in the automated fitting trial, regardless of the product type. Conclusions: When designing modern cementless femoral stems intended for press-fit fixation, it is crucial to account for the anatomical variations specific to the target population. In this study, Fit^® and Accolade II^® femoral components demonstrated superior compatibility with the femoral anatomy of the East Asian population, particularly in those with a higher incidence of Dorr type A femora. These stems, characterized by slimmer distal dimensions and high-offset options, appear to minimize metaphyseal–diaphyseal mismatch and associated complications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)

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18 pages, 1202 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Prospective Self-Report Survey-Based Cohort Study on Factors That Have an Influence on Tinnitus

by Jana V. P. Devos, Marcus L. F. Janssen, A. Miranda L. Janssen, Catharine A. Hellingman and Jasper V. Smit

Audiol. Res. 2024, 14(5), 875-892; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres14050074 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Background: Limited information is available on factors that affect the burden tinnitus. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between tinnitus burden and demographic, patient-specific and tinnitus characteristics. Secondly, it was examined which variables could predict a change in [...] Read more.

Background: Limited information is available on factors that affect the burden tinnitus. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between tinnitus burden and demographic, patient-specific and tinnitus characteristics. Secondly, it was examined which variables could predict a change in tinnitus burden after 12 months. Method: In a prospective Dutch cohort of 383 tinnitus patients seeking medical help, tinnitus complaints, demographics, tinnitus characteristics, psychological wellbeing and quality of life were assessed using an online self-report survey at three timepoints (start, 6 months, 12 months). The main outcome variables for tinnitus burden are the Tinnitus Questionnaire (TQ) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for tinnitus burden and loudness. Results: Several variables (time, sex, education level, life events, anxiety and depression, sleep issues, tinnitus loudness, hearing impairment and treatment) were significantly associated with tinnitus burden. Additionally, tinnitus burden after 12 months was associated with anxiety, following treatment, sleep issues, negative life events and hearing impairment (increase) and anxiety, total of life events and environmental quality of life (decrease) predicted the tinnitus burden after 12 months. Conclusions: Several factors, such as education level, life events, psychological factors and sleep quality, are related to tinnitus burden and can predict tinnitus burden over time. Full article

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14 pages, 7559 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First-Principles Study on the Influence of Crystal Structures on the Interface Properties of Graphene/Titanium Composites

by Xiuli Han, Rui Wang, Pengchao Kang, Wanying Li and Gaohui Wu

Coatings 2024, 14(10), 1293; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14101293 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the fabrication and application of graphene-reinforced metal matrix composites. The remarkable mechanical properties of graphene have led to a substantial enhancement in the strength of titanium-based composites reinforced with graphene nanosheets. However, the occurrence [...] Read more.

In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the fabrication and application of graphene-reinforced metal matrix composites. The remarkable mechanical properties of graphene have led to a substantial enhancement in the strength of titanium-based composites reinforced with graphene nanosheets. However, the occurrence of severe interfacial reactions remains one of the most challenging issues in graphene-reinforced titanium matrix composites. This study, grounded in first principles, investigates the interfacial bonding between pure titanium and graphene across two distinct crystal structures, as well as the impact of vacancy defects on the composite’s interfacial structure. The bond strength between beta titanium and graphene is found to be relatively weaker, which may facilitate a reduction in the reactivity between graphene and titanium. Furthermore, the presence of vacancy defects is identified as a crucial factor influencing the formation of titanium carbide. This study presents a novel approach to enhance the interfacial adhesion between graphene and titanium. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heat Treatment and Surface Engineering of Tools and Dies)

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19 pages, 8953 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leveraging Multimodal Large Language Models (MLLMs) for Enhanced Object Detection and Scene Understanding in Thermal Images for Autonomous Driving Systems

by Huthaifa I. Ashqar, Taqwa I. Alhadidi, Mohammed Elhenawy and Nour O. Khanfar

Automation 2024, 5(4), 508-526; https://doi.org/10.3390/automation5040029 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

The integration of thermal imaging data with multimodal large language models (MLLMs) offers promising advancements for enhancing the safety and functionality of autonomous driving systems (ADS) and intelligent transportation systems (ITS). This study investigates the potential of MLLMs, specifically GPT-4 Vision Preview and [...] Read more.

The integration of thermal imaging data with multimodal large language models (MLLMs) offers promising advancements for enhancing the safety and functionality of autonomous driving systems (ADS) and intelligent transportation systems (ITS). This study investigates the potential of MLLMs, specifically GPT-4 Vision Preview and Gemini 1.0 Pro Vision, for interpreting thermal images for applications in ADS and ITS. Two primary research questions are addressed: the capacity of these models to detect and enumerate objects within thermal images, and to determine whether pairs of image sources represent the same scene. Furthermore, we propose a framework for object detection and classification by integrating infrared (IR) and RGB images of the same scene without requiring localization data. This framework is particularly valuable for enhancing the detection and classification accuracy in environments where both IR and RGB cameras are essential. By employing zero-shot in-context learning for object detection and the chain-of-thought technique for scene discernment, this study demonstrates that MLLMs can recognize objects such as vehicles and individuals with promising results, even in the challenging domain of thermal imaging. The results indicate a high true positive rate for larger objects and moderate success in scene discernment, with a recall of 0.91 and a precision of 0.79 for similar scenes. The integration of IR and RGB images further enhances detection capabilities, achieving an average precision of 0.93 and an average recall of 0.56. This approach leverages the complementary strengths of each modality to compensate for individual limitations. This study highlights the potential of combining advanced AI methodologies with thermal imaging to enhance the accuracy and reliability of ADS, while identifying areas for improvement in model performance. Full article

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17 pages, 3150 KiB

Open AccessReview

Exploring the Origins of Low-Temperature Thermochromism in Polydiacetylenes

by Magdalena Wilk-Kozubek, Bartłomiej Potaniec, Patrycja Gazińska and Joanna Cybińska

Polymers 2024, 16(20), 2856; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16202856 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

This review article delves into the intriguing phenomenon of low-temperature thermochromism, whereby materials change color in response to temperature variations, with a particular focus on its applications in temperature-sensitive fields like medical storage. By closely examining thermochromic materials, this article highlights their potential [...] Read more.

This review article delves into the intriguing phenomenon of low-temperature thermochromism, whereby materials change color in response to temperature variations, with a particular focus on its applications in temperature-sensitive fields like medical storage. By closely examining thermochromic materials, this article highlights their potential to offer innovative solutions for monitoring and preserving thermolabile products that require strict temperature control. This leads to a special emphasis on polydiacetylenes (PDAs), a class of conjugated polymers with unique low-temperature thermochromic properties, positioning them as promising candidates for reliable temperature indicators. This article then explores the underlying mechanisms for fine-tuning the thermochromic behavior of PDAs, particularly discussing recent advancements in PDA design, such as structural alterations of monomers to achieve low-temperature thermochromism. These modifications, influenced by factors like side-chain length, hydrogen-bonding interactions, and the use of copolymers, are intended to result in irreversible color transitions at specific low temperatures, which is crucial to maintaining the integrity of thermally sensitive products. Finally, this article discusses the potential applications of PDAs as thermochromic sensors in tissue biobanking, where their ability to provide visual indications of temperature fluctuations could significantly enhance the monitoring and management of biological samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Functional Polymers and Composites)

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13 pages, 2881 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Water Content in Semidry Grinding on the Quality of Glutinous Rice Flour

by Tao Huang, Dan Ouyang, Shangyuan Sang, Caiming Li, Xiaosan Wang, Xiao Wang, Jiali Xing and Xiaohu Luo

Foods 2024, 13(20), 3216; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13203216 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

The grinding process is one of the key factors affecting the quality of glutinous rice flour (GRF). As an emerging grinding method, semidry grinding aims to solve the problems of the high yield of wastewater in traditional wet grinding and the high content [...] Read more.

The grinding process is one of the key factors affecting the quality of glutinous rice flour (GRF). As an emerging grinding method, semidry grinding aims to solve the problems of the high yield of wastewater in traditional wet grinding and the high content of damaged starch in dry grinding, in which the water content has a great influence on the quality of GRF. However, semidry grinding has not yet been formally put into production due to limitations such as the long time required to adjust the water content of rice grains. Therefore, this work was carried out to shorten the soaking time of glutinous rice (GR) by hot air pretreatment, and to conduct a systematic and in-depth study of the effect of water content on the quality of GRF, including water distribution, water hydration properties, thermal properties, rheological properties, and microstructure. The results showed that the GRF with higher water content had lower water solubility and higher enthalpy of pasting, which were due to the low content of damaged starch and the high degree of crystallization. The particle size of the GRF became smaller as the interaction between water and starch was enhanced and the GR was softened. In addition, the viscosity and elasticity of the GRF were also improved with an increase in water content. This work provides theoretical guidance for the improvement of semidry grinding to a certain extent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Grain)

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15 pages, 7133 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Histological and Molecular Characterization of the Musa spp. x Pseudocercospora musae Pathosystem

by Paulo Henrique da Silva, Israel Lopes da Cunha Neto, Rogério Mercês Ferreira Santos, Fabiano Machado Martins, Julianna Matos da Silva Soares, Fernanda dos Santos Nascimento, Andresa Priscila de Souza Ramos, Edson Perito Amorim, Cláudia Fortes Ferreira and Carlos Alberto da Silva Ledo

Agronomy 2024, 14(10), 2328; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14102328 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Yellow Sigatoka, caused by the fungus Pseudocercospora musae, represents one of the most challenging diseases in bananas, which is aggravated due to the genetic variability of this pathogen. The main objective of this study was to characterize the infection process of P. [...] Read more.

Yellow Sigatoka, caused by the fungus Pseudocercospora musae, represents one of the most challenging diseases in bananas, which is aggravated due to the genetic variability of this pathogen. The main objective of this study was to characterize the infection process of P. musae in two banana cultivars with different levels of resistance and to quantify the expression of resistance genes. Inoculated and non-inoculated leaf samples of the two cultivars, Yangambi km 5—resistant and Grande Naine—susceptible, were investigated by light microscopy, histochemistry, scanning electron microscopy, and RT-qPCR. The cultivar Grande Naine showed early signs of P. musae infection, including the production of lipophilic substances and phenolic compounds, while the cultivar Yangambi km 5 was not affected. In the Grande Naine cultivar, the protein kinase gene was upregulated, while in the Yangambi km 5, it was repressed. The WAK2 gene was initially upregulated in both cultivars; however, in Grande Naine, it was subsequently repressed, while in Yangambi km 5, it remained downregulated. These findings have the potential to contribute to more effective management strategies in the control of yellow Sigatoka and the development of banana varieties resistant to yellow Sigatoka. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Plant Resistance Mechanisms for Crop Breeding)

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19 pages, 3511 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Physiological Differences of Two Primary Cultures of Human Normal and Hypertrophic Scar Dermal Fibroblasts: A Pilot Study

by Natalia M. Yudintceva, Yulia V. Kolesnichenko, Alla N. Shatrova, Nikolay D. Aksenov, Natalia M. Yartseva, Maxim A. Shevtsov, Viacheslav S. Fedorov, Mikhail G. Khotin, Rustam H. Ziganshin and Natalia A. Mikhailova

Biomedicines 2024, 12(10), 2295; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12102295 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Dermal fibroblasts (DFs) are key participants in skin hypertrophic scarring, and their properties are being studied to identify the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of skin scarring. Methods: In the present work, we performed a comparative analysis of DFs isolated [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Dermal fibroblasts (DFs) are key participants in skin hypertrophic scarring, and their properties are being studied to identify the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of skin scarring. Methods: In the present work, we performed a comparative analysis of DFs isolated from normal skin (normal dermal fibroblasts, NDFs), and hypertrophic scar skin (hypertrophic scar fibroblasts, HTSFs). The fibroblasts were karyotyped and phenotyped, and experiments on growth rate, wound healing, and single-cell motility were conducted. Results: Comparative analysis revealed a minor karyotype difference between cells. However, HTSFs are characterized by higher proliferation level and motility compared to NDFs. These significant differences may be associated with quantitative and qualitative differences in the cell secretome. A proteomic comparison of NDF and HTSF found that differences were associated with metabolic proteins reflecting physiological differences between the two cells lines. Numerous unique proteins were found only in the vesicular phase of vHTSFs. Some proteins involved in cell proliferation (protein-glutamine gamma-glutamyltransferase K) and cell motility (catenin delta-1), which regulate gene transcription and the activity of Rho family GTPases and downstream cytoskeletal dynamics, were identified. A number of proteins which potentially play a role in fibrosis and inflammation (mucin-5B, CD97, adhesion G protein-coupled receptor E2, antileukoproteinase, protein S100-A8 and S100-A9, protein caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 14) were detected in vHTSFs. Conclusions: A comparative analysis of primary cell cultures revealed their various properties, especially in the cell secretome. These proteins may be considered promising target molecules for developing treatment or prevention strategies for pathological skin scarring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)

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19 pages, 1159 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Formation of Optical Fractals by Chaotic Solitons in Coupled Nonlinear Helmholtz Equations

by M. Mossa Al-Sawalha, Saima Noor, Mohammad Alqudah, Musaad S. Aldhabani and Rasool Shah

Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(10), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8100594 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

In the present research work, we construct and examine the self-similarity of optical solitons by employing the Riccati Modified Extended Simple Equation Method (RMESEM) within the framework of non-integrable Coupled Nonlinear Helmholtz Equations (CNHEs). This system models the transmission of optical solitons and [...] Read more.

In the present research work, we construct and examine the self-similarity of optical solitons by employing the Riccati Modified Extended Simple Equation Method (RMESEM) within the framework of non-integrable Coupled Nonlinear Helmholtz Equations (CNHEs). This system models the transmission of optical solitons and coupled wave packets in nonlinear optical fibers and describes transverse effects in nonlinear fiber optics. Initially, a complex transformation is used to convert the model into a single Nonlinear Ordinary Differential Equation (NODE), from which hyperbolic, exponential, rational, trigonometric, and rational hyperbolic solutions are produced. In order to better understand the physical dynamics, we offer several 3D, contour, and 2D illustrations for the independent selections of physical parameter values. These illustrations highlight the graphic behaviour of some optical solitons and demonstrate that, under certain constraint conditions, acquired optical solitons lose their stability when they approach an axis and display periodic-axial perturbations, which lead to the generation of optical fractals. As a framework, the generated optical solitons have several useful applications in the field of telecommunications. Furthermore, our suggested RMESEM demonstrates its use by broadening the spectrum of optical soliton solutions, offering important insights into the dynamics of the CNHEs, and suggesting possible applications in the management of nonlinear models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Complexity, Fractality and Fractional Dynamics Applied to Science and Engineering)

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14 pages, 2669 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polypropylene Crystallinity Reduction through the Synergistic Effects of Cellulose and Silica Formed via Sol–Gel Synthesis

by Gulbarshin K. Shambilova, Rinat M. Iskakov, Aigul S. Bukanova, Fazilat B. Kairliyeva, Altynay S. Kalauova, Mikhail S. Kuzin, Egor M. Novikov, Pavel S. Gerasimenko, Igor S. Makarov and Ivan Yu. Skvortsov

Polymers 2024, 16(20), 2855; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16202855 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study focuses on the development of environmentally sustainable polypropylene (PP)-based composites with the potential for biodegradability by incorporating cellulose and the oligomeric siloxane ES-40. Targeting industrial applications such as fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing, ES-40 was employed as a precursor for [...] Read more.

This study focuses on the development of environmentally sustainable polypropylene (PP)-based composites with the potential for biodegradability by incorporating cellulose and the oligomeric siloxane ES-40. Targeting industrial applications such as fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing, ES-40 was employed as a precursor for the in situ formation of silica particles via hydrolytic polycondensation (HPC). Two HPC approaches were investigated: a preliminary reaction in a mixture of cellulose, ethanol, and water, and a direct reaction within the molten PP matrix. The composites were thoroughly characterized using rotational rheometry, optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic mechanical analysis. Both methods resulted in composites with markedly reduced crystallinity and shrinkage compared to neat PP, with the lowest shrinkage observed in blends prepared directly in the extruder. The inclusion of cellulose not only enhances the environmental profile of these composites but also paves the way for the development of PP materials with improved biodegradability, highlighting the potential of this technique for fabricating more amorphous composites from crystalline or semi-crystalline polymers for enhancing the quality and dimensional stability of FDM-printed materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Chemistry)

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