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33 pages, 10845 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ORPP—An Ontology for Skill-Based Robotic Process Planning in Agile Manufacturing

by Congyu Zhang Sprenger, Juan Antonio Corrales Ramón and Norman Urs Baier

Electronics 2024, 13(18), 3666; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13183666 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Ontology plays a significant role in AI (Artificial Intelligence) and robotics by providing structured data, reasoning, action understanding, context awareness, knowledge transfer, and semantic learning. The structured framework created by the ontology for knowledge representation is crucial for enabling intelligent behavior in robots. [...] Read more.

Ontology plays a significant role in AI (Artificial Intelligence) and robotics by providing structured data, reasoning, action understanding, context awareness, knowledge transfer, and semantic learning. The structured framework created by the ontology for knowledge representation is crucial for enabling intelligent behavior in robots. This paper provides a state-of-the-art analysis on the existing ontology approaches and at the same time consolidates the terms in the robotic task planning domain. The major gap identified in the literature is the need to bridge higher-level robotic process management and lower-level robotic control. This gap makes it difficult for operators/non-robotic experts to integrate robots into their production processes as well as evaluate key performance indicators (KPI) of the processes. To fill the gap, the authors propose an ontology for skill-based robotics process planning (ORPP). ORPP not only provides a standardization in the robotic process planning in the agile manufacturing domain but also enables non-robotic experts to design and plan their production processes using an intuitive Process-Task-Skill-Primitive structure to control low-level robotic actions. On the performance level, this structure provides traceability of the KPIs down to the robot control level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Artificial Intelligence in Robotics)

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13 pages, 4845 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Ventricular Response on Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence: From the CODE-AF Registry

by Joo Hee Jeong, Yong-Soo Baek, Junbeom Park, Hyung Wook Park, Eue-Keun Choi, Jin-Kyu Park, Ki-Woon Kang, Jun Kim, Young Soo Lee, Jin-Bae Kim, Jong-Il Choi, Boyoung Joung and Jaemin Shim

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(18), 5469; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13185469 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Relatively little has been established about the association of rapid ventricular response (RVR) with further recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF). This study investigated the impact of RVR on the recurrence of AF. Methods: Data were obtained from a multicenter, prospective [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Relatively little has been established about the association of rapid ventricular response (RVR) with further recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF). This study investigated the impact of RVR on the recurrence of AF. Methods: Data were obtained from a multicenter, prospective registry of non-valvular AF patients. RVR was defined as AF with a ventricular rate > 110 bpm. The primary endpoint was the recurrence of AF, defined as the first AF detected on 12-lead electrocardiography during follow-up. Secondary endpoints included manifestation of AF during follow-up and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), a composite of thromboembolic events, major bleeding, myocardial infarction, and death. Results: Among 5533 patients, 493 (8.9%) presented RVR. Patients with RVR were younger, had smaller left atrial diameters, and more frequently had paroxysmal AF. During the mean follow-up duration of 28.6 months, the RVR group exhibited significantly lower recurrence of AF (hazard ratio: 0.58, 95% confidence interval: 0.53–0.65, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the occurrence of MACEs between patients with RVR and those without RVR (0.96, 0.70–1.31, p = 0.800). AF with RVR was identified as an independent negative predictor of AF recurrence (0.61, 0.53–0.71, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In patients with AF, those with RVR had a significantly lower recurrence of AF without an increase in MACEs. RVR is a favorable marker that may benefit from early rhythm control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Updates in Cardiac Electrophysiology)

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15 pages, 8016 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructural Stability of IN625 Reinforced by the Addition of TiC Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion after Prolonged Thermal Exposure

by Serena Lerda, Giulio Marchese, Emilio Bassini, Mariangela Lombardi, Daniele Ugues, Paolo Fino and Sara Biamino

Materials 2024, 17(18), 4532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17184532 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

This paper deals with the development and characterization of an Inconel 625 (IN625) reinforced with 2 wt.% of sub-micrometrical TiC particles produced by the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) process. IN625 and IN625 2 wt.% TiC microstructural evolution was evaluated in the as-built, [...] Read more.

This paper deals with the development and characterization of an Inconel 625 (IN625) reinforced with 2 wt.% of sub-micrometrical TiC particles produced by the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) process. IN625 and IN625 2 wt.% TiC microstructural evolution was evaluated in the as-built, solution-annealed (2 h at 1150 °C), and prolonged heat-treated (2 h at 1150 °C + 100 h at 1000 °C) conditions. The IN625 and IN625 + TiC samples were successfully produced with low residual porosity (<0.15%). In the as-built conditions, both materials developed mainly columnar grains elongated to the building direction with melt pools, fine dendric structures, and small fractions of recrystallized grains. Some TiC segregations were observed in the composite, preferentially located at the melt pool boundaries. The heat treatments led to a different microstructural evolution between the base alloy and the composite. After solution annealing, the IN625 alloy was subjected to full recrystallization with a drastic reduction in hardness. Afterward, the prolonged thermal exposures for 100 h at 1000 °C provoked the formation of carbides, increasing the hardness. On the contrary, the composite retained the as-built microstructure with columnar grains in the solution-annealed and prolonged heat-treated conditions, revealing a limited formation and growth of carbides, thus resulting in a reduced hardness variation. The addition of TiC inside the IN625 enhanced the microstructural stability of the composite, preventing the recrystallization and the growth of phases occurring under prolonged thermal exposures. The current study therefore reported the effect of TiC particles on the microstructural stabilization of LPBFed IN625, with a peculiar focus on the prolonged thermal exposure at 1000 °C. Full article

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24 pages, 2304 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Targeting NETosis in Acute Brain Injury: A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidence

by Marzia Savi, Fuhong Su, Elda Diletta Sterchele, Elisa Gouvêa Bogossian, Zoé Demailly, Marta Baggiani, Giuseppe Stefano Casu and Fabio Silvio Taccone

Cells 2024, 13(18), 1553; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13181553 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Acute brain injury (ABI) remains one of the leading causes of death and disability world-wide. Its treatment is challenging due to the heterogeneity of the mechanisms involved and the variability among individuals. This systematic review aims at evaluating the impact of anti-histone treatments [...] Read more.

Acute brain injury (ABI) remains one of the leading causes of death and disability world-wide. Its treatment is challenging due to the heterogeneity of the mechanisms involved and the variability among individuals. This systematic review aims at evaluating the impact of anti-histone treatments on outcomes in ABI patients and experimental animals and defining the trend of nucleosome levels in biological samples post injury. We performed a search in Pubmed/Medline and Embase databases for randomized controlled trials and cohort studies involving humans or experimental settings with various causes of ABI. We formulated the search using the PICO method, considering ABI patients or animal models as population (P), comparing pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy targeting the nucleosome as Intervention (I) to standard of care or no treatment as Control (C). The outcome (O) was mortality or functional outcome in experimental animals and patients affected by ABI undergoing anti-NET treatments. We identified 28 studies from 1246 articles, of which 7 were experimental studies and 21 were human clinical studies. Among these studies, only four assessed the effect of anti-NET therapy on circulating markers. Three of them were preclinical and reported better outcome in the interventional arm compared to the control arm. All the studies observed a significant reduction in circulating NET-derived products. NETosis could be a target for new treatments. Monitoring NET markers in blood and cerebrospinal fluid might predict mortality and long-term outcomes. However, longitudinal studies and randomized controlled trials are warranted to fully evaluate their potential, as current evidence is limited. Full article

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15 pages, 1519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Caffeine—Legal Natural Stimulant with Open Research Perspective: Spectroscopic and Theoretical Characterization

by Teobald Kupka, Natalina Makieieva, Michał Jewgiński, Magdalena Witek, Barbara Blicharska, Oimahmad Rahmonov, Karel Doležal and Tomáš Pospíšil

Molecules 2024, 29(18), 4382; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29184382 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Caffeine is an alkaloid with a purine structure and has been well known for centuries due to its presence in popular drinks—tea and coffee. However, the structural and spectroscopic parameters of this compound, as well as its chemical and biological activities, are still [...] Read more.

Caffeine is an alkaloid with a purine structure and has been well known for centuries due to its presence in popular drinks—tea and coffee. However, the structural and spectroscopic parameters of this compound, as well as its chemical and biological activities, are still not fully known. In this study, for the first time, we report on the measured oxygen-17 NMR spectra of this stimulant. To support the assignment of our experimental NMR data, extensive quantum chemical calculations of NMR parameters, including nuclear magnetic shielding constants and indirect spin–spin coupling constants, were performed. In a theoretical study, using nine efficient density functionals (B3LYP, BLYP, BP86, CAM-B3LYP, LC-BLYP, M06, PBE0, TPSSh, wB97x), and in combination with a large and flexible correlation-consistent aug-cc-pVTZ basis set, the structure and NMR parameters were predicted for a free molecule of caffeine and in chloroform, DMSO and water. A polarized continuum model (PCM) was used to include a solvent effect. As a result, an optimal methodology was developed for predicting reliable NMR data, suitable for studies of known, as well as newly discovered, purines and similar alkaloids. The results of the current work could be used in future basic and applied studies, including NMR identification and intermolecular interactions of caffeine in various raw materials, like plants and food, as well as in the structural and spectroscopic characterization of new compounds with similar structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioorganic Chemistry)

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19 pages, 520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Educational Measures on Emotional Adjustment in Students with and without Specific Learning Difficulties according to Gender

by Isaías Martín-Ruiz, María-José Robles-Sánchez and Agustín Wallace

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(9), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13090488 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

The prevalence of mental health problems in adolescence is high, and it would appear that certain conditioning factors such as having a Specific Learning Disability (SpLD), the application of educational measures (repeating a school year), or gender can have an impact on the [...] Read more.

The prevalence of mental health problems in adolescence is high, and it would appear that certain conditioning factors such as having a Specific Learning Disability (SpLD), the application of educational measures (repeating a school year), or gender can have an impact on the socioemotional development of adolescents. However, we do not yet have a clear picture of the role played by each variable or whether there are interactions between them. Therefore, the objective of this study is to analyse the effect of these independent variables on internalising problems (anxiety and depression) and on personal resources (self-esteem, social competence, and awareness of the problem). The sample is composed of 80 students, 40 with SpLD and 40 control, aged between 12 and 17 years old, matched in terms of age and gender. The results indicate that the variables Specific Learning Disabilities and educational measures have a negative impact on internalising problems and personal resources of adolescents, while there is no significant effect with respect to gender. In addition, we identified interactions between having SpLD and being held back a year. We therefore call into question the negative impact of repeating a school year according to the condition. Full article

15 pages, 3387 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distribution and Characteristics of Ammonia Concentration by Region in Korea

by In-Ho Song, Hyun-Woong Kim, Jong-Sung Park, Seung-Myung Park, Jae-Yun Lee, Eun-Jung Nam, Yong-Jae Lim, Jung-Min Park, Myung-Soo Yoo, Seog-Yeon Cho and Hye-Jung Shin

Atmosphere 2024, 15(9), 1120; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15091120 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

In this study, the characteristics of ammonia and their effects on secondary particulate matter (PM) formation were analyzed by region in Korea in 2020. The NH₃ concentration was high in GJ (11.4 ppb), a neighboring agricultural area, followed by DJ (9.0 ppb) [...] Read more.

In this study, the characteristics of ammonia and their effects on secondary particulate matter (PM) formation were analyzed by region in Korea in 2020. The NH₃ concentration was high in GJ (11.4 ppb), a neighboring agricultural area, followed by DJ (9.0 ppb) and SE (8.6 ppb), which are located in urban areas. On the other hand, BI (2.6 ppb) and JI (4.5 ppb), which are background regions, demonstrated a lower concentration than other areas. Seasonally, ammonia was high in spring and summer, and it generally increased when human activities are active. Therefore, it is believed that the ammonia in the atmosphere not only changes depending on local emissions, but also based on temperature-dependent phase distribution characteristics. For SE and GJ, regions with relatively high ammonia concentrations, investigations into the effect of ammonia on secondary PM formation were conducted. In both regions, the ammonium-to-sulfate mole ratio tended to increase with increasing ammonia or PM_2.5 concentration. It can be assumed that the PM_2.5 concentration increases as nitrates are formed under the ammonia-sufficient condition. The adjusted gas ratio is generally greater than 4, indicating that there is a lot of free ammonia. Thus, it is estimated that a reduction in ammonia would not be effective to restrain nitrate formation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Air Quality)

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25 pages, 8614 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Techno-Economic Analysis of Combined Production of Wind Energy and Green Hydrogen on the Northern Coast of Mauritania

by Varha Maaloum, El Moustapha Bououbeid, Mohamed Mahmoud Ali, Kaan Yetilmezsoy, Shafiqur Rehman, Christophe Ménézo, Abdel Kader Mahmoud, Shahab Makoui, Mamadou Lamine Samb and Ahmed Mohamed Yahya

Sustainability 2024, 16(18), 8063; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16188063 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Green hydrogen is becoming increasingly popular, with academics, institutions, and governments concentrating on its development, efficiency improvement, and cost reduction. The objective of the Ministry of Petroleum, Mines, and Energy is to achieve a 35% proportion of renewable energy in the overall energy [...] Read more.

Green hydrogen is becoming increasingly popular, with academics, institutions, and governments concentrating on its development, efficiency improvement, and cost reduction. The objective of the Ministry of Petroleum, Mines, and Energy is to achieve a 35% proportion of renewable energy in the overall energy composition by the year 2030, followed by a 50% commitment by 2050. This goal will be achieved through the implementation of feed-in tariffs and the integration of independent power generators. The present study focused on the economic feasibility of green hydrogen and its production process utilizing renewable energy resources on the northern coast of Mauritania. The current investigation also explored the wind potential along the northern coast of Mauritania, spanning over 600 km between Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. Wind data from masts, Lidar stations, and satellites at 10 and 80 m heights from 2022 to 2023 were used to assess wind characteristics and evaluate five turbine types for local conditions. A comprehensive techno-economic analysis was carried out at five specific sites, encompassing the measures of levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) and levelized cost of green hydrogen (LCOGH), as well as sensitivity analysis and economic performance indicators. The results showed an annual average wind speed of 7.6 m/s in Nouakchott to 9.8 m/s in Nouadhibou at 80 m. The GOLDWIND 3.0 MW model showed the highest capacity factor of 50.81% due to its low cut-in speed of 2.5 m/s and its rated wind speed of 10.5 to 11 m/s. The NORDEX 4 MW model forecasted an annual production of 21.97 GWh in Nouadhibou and 19.23 GWh in Boulanoir, with the LCOE ranging from USD 5.69 to 6.51 cents/kWh, below the local electricity tariff, and an LCOGH of USD 1.85 to 2.11 US/kg H₂. Multiple economic indicators confirmed the feasibility of wind energy and green hydrogen projects in assessed sites. These results boosted the confidence of the techno-economic model, highlighting the resilience of future investments in these sustainable energy infrastructures. Mauritania’s north coast has potential for wind energy, aiding green hydrogen production for energy goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy, Electric Power Systems and Sustainability)

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14 pages, 345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Turkish Government’s Ambivalent Policy Response to the New Influx of Afghan Migrants through the Public Policy Tools

by Sevinç Bermek

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(9), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13090487 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Abstract: Turkey has been a hub for migrants since the Syrian crisis and has been home to 3.7 million refugees. The literature on migration focusses largely on Turkey’s response to refugees from Syria, host country citizens’ attitudes towards Syrians and their integration challenges, [...] Read more.

Abstract: Turkey has been a hub for migrants since the Syrian crisis and has been home to 3.7 million refugees. The literature on migration focusses largely on Turkey’s response to refugees from Syria, host country citizens’ attitudes towards Syrians and their integration challenges, the EU–Turkey refugee deal, and its political implications for the EU and Turkey. Nonetheless, there has been a sharp rise in the number of Afghan migrants to Turkey since the complete withdrawal of US military forces from Afghanistan in 2020. Both scholarly and grey literature highlights that Turkey has recently been an attractive hub for Afghan migrants and other ethnic minorities, following Pakistan and Iran. Nonetheless, this literature has not substantially explored the Turkish government’s attitude towards the new influx of migrants. For this purpose, the article draws upon qualitative research based on secondary and grey literature (including semi-structured interviews with representatives from migration-related NGOs in Turkey). The article underpins its findings from the public policy framework of NATO (nodality, authority, treasure, organisation) by demonstrating how Turkey’s ambivalent response to the refugee inflow is shaped by limited information (nodality), weak legal mechanisms (authority), exploitation of new inflow as cheap labour (treasure), and migration system restructuring (organisation, treasure) after the withdrawal of external actors like the EU and UNHCR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Globalization and International Migration to the EU)

17 pages, 1621 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Robust Load Frequency Control of Interconnected Power Systems with Back Propagation Neural Network-Proportional-Integral-Derivative-Controlled Wind Power Integration

by Fang Ye and Zhijian Hu

Sustainability 2024, 16(18), 8062; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16188062 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

As the global demand for energy sustainability increases, the scale of wind power integration steadily increases, so the system frequency suffers significant challenges due to the huge fluctuations of the wind power output. To address this issue, this paper proposes a Back Propagation [...] Read more.

As the global demand for energy sustainability increases, the scale of wind power integration steadily increases, so the system frequency suffers significant challenges due to the huge fluctuations of the wind power output. To address this issue, this paper proposes a Back Propagation Neural Network-Proportional-Integral-Derivative (BPNN-PID) controller to track the output power of the wind power generation system, which can well alleviate the volatility of the wind power output, resulting in the slighter imbalance with the rated wind power output. Furthermore, at the multi-area power system level, to mitigate the impact of the imbalanced wind power injected into the main grid, the H_∞ robust controller was designed to ensure the frequency deviation within the admissible range. Finally, a four-area interconnected power system was employed as the test system, and the results validated the feasibility and effectiveness of both the proposed BPNN-PID controller and the robust controller. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Electric Propulsion Drive and Wind Turbine Technologies)

37 pages, 6083 KiB

Open AccessArticle

MISAO: A Multi-Strategy Improved Snow Ablation Optimizer for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Path Planning

by Cuiping Zhou, Shaobo Li, Cankun Xie, Panliang Yuan and Xiangfu Long

Mathematics 2024, 12(18), 2870; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12182870 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

The snow ablation optimizer (SAO) is a meta-heuristic technique used to seek the best solution for sophisticated problems. In response to the defects in the SAO algorithm, which has poor search efficiency and is prone to getting trapped in local optima, this article [...] Read more.

The snow ablation optimizer (SAO) is a meta-heuristic technique used to seek the best solution for sophisticated problems. In response to the defects in the SAO algorithm, which has poor search efficiency and is prone to getting trapped in local optima, this article suggests a multi-strategy improved (MISAO) snow ablation optimizer. It is employed in the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) path planning issue. To begin with, the tent chaos and elite reverse learning initialization strategies are merged to extend the diversity of the population; secondly, a greedy selection method is deployed to retain superior alternative solutions for the upcoming iteration; then, the Harris hawk (HHO) strategy is introduced to enhance the exploitation capability, which prevents trapping in partial ideals; finally, the red-tailed hawk (RTH) is adopted to perform the global exploration, which, enhances global optimization capability. To comprehensively evaluate MISAO’s optimization capability, a battery of digital optimization investigations is executed using 23 test functions, and the results of the comparative analysis show that the suggested algorithm has high solving accuracy and convergence velocity. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the optimization path of the MISAO algorithm are demonstrated in the UAV path planning project. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Swarm Intelligence Algorithms and Their Applications, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 2964 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Targeted Gene Delivery to Muscle Cells In Vitro and In Vivo Using Electrostatically Stabilized DNA—Peptide Complexes

by Anna Egorova, Sergei Chepanov, Sergei Selkov, Igor Kogan and Anton Kiselev

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(3), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92030051 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Genetic constructs must be delivered selectively to target tissues and intracellular compartments at the necessary concentrations in order to achieve the maximum therapeutic effect in gene therapy. Development of targeted carriers for non-viral delivery of nucleic acids into cells, including those in muscle, [...] Read more.

Genetic constructs must be delivered selectively to target tissues and intracellular compartments at the necessary concentrations in order to achieve the maximum therapeutic effect in gene therapy. Development of targeted carriers for non-viral delivery of nucleic acids into cells, including those in muscle, which is one of the most challenging tissues to transfect in vivo, remains a topical issue. We have studied ternary complexes of plasmid DNA and an arginine–histidine-rich peptide-based carrier coated with a glutamate–histidine-rich polymer bearing skeletal muscle targeting peptide (SMTP) for the gene delivery to muscle tissue. The relaxation of the ternary complexes after polyanion treatment was assessed using the ethidium bromide displacement assay. The developed polyplexes were used to transfect C2C12 myoblasts in full-media conditions, followed by analysis of their toxic properties using the Alamar Blue assay and expression analysis of lacZ and GFP reporter genes. After delivering plasmids containing the GFP and lacZ genes into the femoral muscles of mdx mice, which are model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, GFP fluorescence and β-galactosidase activity were detected. We observed that the modification of ternary polyplexes with 10 mol% of SMTP ligand resulted in a 2.3-fold increase in lacZ gene expression when compared to unmodified control polyplexes in vivo. Thus, we have demonstrated that the developed DNA/carrier complexes and SMTP-modified coating are nontoxic, are stable against polyanion-induced relaxation, and can provide targeted gene delivery to muscle cells and tissues. The results of this study are useful for a range of therapeutic applications, from immunization to amelioration of inherited neuromuscular diseases. Full article

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11 pages, 642 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Late Hepatocellular Carcinoma Occurrence in Patients Achieving Sustained Virological Response After Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy: A Matter of Follow-Up or Something Else?

by Alessandro Perrella, Alfredo Caturano, Ilario de Sio, Pasquale Bellopede, Adelaide Maddaloni, Luigi Maria Vitale, Barbara Rinaldi, Andrea Mormone, Antonio Izzi, Costanza Sbreglia, Francesca Futura Bernardi, Ugo Trama, Massimiliano Berretta, Raffaele Galiero, Erica Vetrano, Ferdinando Carlo Sasso, Gianluigi Franci, Raffaele Marfella and Luca Rinaldi

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(18), 5474; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13185474 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Background: Despite achieving a sustained virological response (SVR) with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), an unexpected increase in the occurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been observed among HCV-treated patients. This study aims to assess the long-term follow-up of HCV patients treated with [...] Read more.

Background: Despite achieving a sustained virological response (SVR) with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), an unexpected increase in the occurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been observed among HCV-treated patients. This study aims to assess the long-term follow-up of HCV patients treated with DAAs who achieved an SVR to investigate the potential for late-onset HCC. Methods: In this prospective multicenter study, we enrolled consecutive HCV patients treated with DAAs following Italian ministerial guidelines between 2015 and 2018. Exclusion criteria included active HCC on imaging, prior HCC treatment, HBV or HIV co-infection, or liver transplant recipients. Monthly follow-ups occurred during treatment, with subsequent assessments every 3 months for at least 48 months. Abdominal ultrasound (US) was performed within two weeks before starting antiviral therapy, supplemented by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS), dynamic computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate incidental liver lesions. Results: Of the 306 patients completing the 48-months follow-up post-treatment (median age 67 years, 55% male), all achieved an SVR. A sofosbuvir-based regimen was administered to 72.5% of patients, while 20% received ribavirin. During follow-up, late-onset HCC developed in 20 patients (cumulative incidence rate of 6.55%). The pattern of HCC occurrence varied (median diameter 24 mm). Multivariate and univariate analyses identified liver stiffness, diabetes, body mass index, and platelet levels before antiviral therapy as associated factors for late HCC occurrence. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that late HCC occurrence may persist despite achieving SVR. Therefore, comprehensive long-term follow-up, including clinical, laboratory, and expert ultrasonography evaluations, is crucial for all HCV patients treated with DAAs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Therapy)

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11 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Temporal Change in Ionised Calcium, Parathyroid Hormone and Bone Metabolism Following Ingestion of a Plant-Sourced Marine Mineral + Protein Isolate in Healthy Young Adults

by Marta Kozior, Olusoji Aboyeji Demehin, Michelle Mary Ryan, Sean O’Connell and Philip Michael Jakeman

Nutrients 2024, 16(18), 3110; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16183110 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Abstract: Background: An increase in plant-sourced (PS) nutrient intake is promoted in support of a sustainable diet. PS dietary minerals and proteins have bioactive properties that can affect bone health and the risk of fracture. Methods: In a group randomised, cross-over design, this [...] Read more.

Abstract: Background: An increase in plant-sourced (PS) nutrient intake is promoted in support of a sustainable diet. PS dietary minerals and proteins have bioactive properties that can affect bone health and the risk of fracture. Methods: In a group randomised, cross-over design, this study evaluated the post-ingestion temporal pattern of change in arterialised ionised calcium (iCa), parathyroid hormone (PTH), C-terminal crosslinked telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) and procollagen type 1 amino-terminal propeptide (P1NP) for 4 h following ingestion of a novel supplement (SUPP) containing a PS marine multi-mineral + PS protein isolate. A diurnally matched intake of mineral water was used as a control (CON). Results: Compared to baseline, the change in iCa concentration was 0.022 (95%CI, 0.006 to 0.038, p = 0.011) mmol/l greater in SUPP than CON, resulting in a −4.214 (95%CI, −8.244 to −0.183, p = 0.042) pg/mL mean reduction in PTH, a −0.64 (95%CI_, −0.199 to −0.008, p = 0.029) ng/mL decrease in the biomarker of bone resorption, CTX, and no change in the biomarker of bone formation, P1NP. Conclusions: When used as a dietary supplement, or incorporated into a food matrix, the promotion of PS marine multi-mineral and PS protein isolates may contribute to a more sustainable diet and overall bone health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Nutrition on Human Health and Disease)

21 pages, 2201 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Green Laboratory Approach to Medical Sample Transportation: Assessing the Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Footprint of Medical Sample Transportation by Drone, Combustion Car, and Electric Car

by Noel Stierlin, Fabian Loertscher, Harald Renz, Lorenz Risch and Martin Risch

Drones 2024, 8(9), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones8090489 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

In response to escalating climate change concerns, this study evaluates the ecological impact and efficiency of medical sample transportation using drones, combustion cars, and electric cars across various terrains and weather conditions in Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Through a comparative analysis, we found that [...] Read more.

In response to escalating climate change concerns, this study evaluates the ecological impact and efficiency of medical sample transportation using drones, combustion cars, and electric cars across various terrains and weather conditions in Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Through a comparative analysis, we found that combustion cars emit the highest average CO₂ at 159.5 g per kilometer (g/km), while electric cars significantly reduce emissions to an average of 3.43 g/km, representing just 2.15% of the emissions from combustion vehicles. Drones emerged as the most environmentally sustainable option, with an average CO₂ emission of 0.09 g/km, which is only 0.07% of combustion car emissions and 2.6% of electric car emissions. Drones also demonstrated superior transport efficiency, covering routes that were, on average, 17% shorter in flat terrain and 24% shorter in mountainous regions compared to cars. Additionally, drones achieved substantial time savings, ranging from 13% to 80% faster delivery times depending on the terrain and traffic conditions. These findings highlight the potential of drone technology to revolutionize healthcare logistics by significantly reducing carbon footprints, optimizing transport routes, and improving delivery efficiency. Integrating drones into healthcare transportation networks offers a promising pathway toward a more sustainable and resilient healthcare system. Full article

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36 pages, 2356 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Geometric Theorems Derived from Integral Equations Applied to Radiative Transfer in Spherical Sectors and Circular Segments

by Joseph Cabeza-Lainez

Mathematics 2024, 12(18), 2875; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12182875 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Semicircles and circular sectors are both ubiquitous in the natural realm. However, mathematically speaking they have represented an enigma since antiquity. In recent years, the author has worked in integral equations with sections of spheres as related to radiative heat transfer and their [...] Read more.

Semicircles and circular sectors are both ubiquitous in the natural realm. However, mathematically speaking they have represented an enigma since antiquity. In recent years, the author has worked in integral equations with sections of spheres as related to radiative heat transfer and their associated form factors, to the point of defining new postulates. The main theorems thus far enunciated refer to the radiative exchange between circles and half disks, but recently the possibility to treat circular sectors has arrived, thanks to the research already conducted. As is known, to find the exact expression of the configuration factor by integration is complex. In the above mentioned problem of the circular sectors, the author reached the first two steps of the basic formulation for radiant exchange. Subsequently, the novelty of the procedure lies in introducing a finite differences approach for the third and fourth integrals which still remain unsolved, once we have been able to find the preliminary integrals. This possibility had not been identified by former research and the output provides us with an ample variety of unexpected scenarios. As a consequence, we are able to analyze with more precision the spatial transference of radiant heat for figures composed of circular sectors. We already know that spherical shapes cannot be discretized with any accuracy. Therefore, we would be able to reduce a considerable amount of hindrance in the progress of thermal radiation science. Important sequels will be derived for radiation in the entrance to tunnels, aircraft design and lighting as well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Engineering Mathematics)

18 pages, 6280 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

In Vitro Bond Strength of Dentin Treated with Sodium Hypochlorite: Effects of Antioxidant Solutions

by Guillermo Grazioli, Elisa de León Cáceres, Romina Tessore, Rafel Guerra Lund, Ana Josefina Monjarás-Ávila, Monika Lukomska-Szymanska, Louis Hardan, Rim Bourgi and Carlos Enrique Cuevas-Suárez

Antioxidants 2024, 13(9), 1116; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13091116 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

This systematic review aims to evaluate whether the application of antioxidant solutions can enhance the bond strength of resin-based materials to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)-treated dentin. This study follows the PICOT strategy: population (sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin), intervention (application of antioxidants), control (distilled water), outcome [...] Read more.

This systematic review aims to evaluate whether the application of antioxidant solutions can enhance the bond strength of resin-based materials to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)-treated dentin. This study follows the PICOT strategy: population (sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin), intervention (application of antioxidants), control (distilled water), outcome (bond strength), and type of studies (in vitro studies). The systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Electronic databases were searched for in vitro studies evaluating the effects of antioxidants on bond strength to sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin. Two independent reviewers screened articles, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model to compare standardized mean differences in bond strength between antioxidant pretreatment and control groups. Inclusion criteria consisted of in vitro studies that examined the bond strength of resin-based materials to NaOCl-treated dentin with antioxidant application, while exclusion criteria included studies with incomplete data, those not using a control group, or those that did not directly measure bond strength. From 3041 initial records, 29 studies were included in the qualitative analysis and 25 in the meta-analysis. Ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, grape seed extract, green tea, and rosmarinic acid significantly improved bond strength to sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin (p < 0.05). The effectiveness of grape seed extract varied with adhesive system type. Hesperidin, p-toluene sulfonic acid, and sodium thiosulfate did not significantly improve bond strength. Most studies had a high risk of bias. This suggests that the conclusions drawn from these studies should be interpreted with caution, and further research with more robust methodologies may be needed to confirm the findings. In conclusion, this systematic review implies that certain antioxidants can improve bond strength to sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin, with efficacy depending on the specific agent and adhesive system used. Further standardized studies are needed to optimize protocols and confirm these findings. Full article

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22 pages, 4048 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Improved Driving Safety Field Model Based on Vehicle Movement Uncertainty for Highway Ramp Influence Areas

by Yueru Xu, Wei Ye, Yalin Luan and Bingbo Cui

Systems 2024, 12(9), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems12090370 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Road traffic accidents result in numerous fatalities and injuries annually. Advanced driving assistance systems (ADASs) have garnered significant attention to mitigate these harms. An accurate safety assessment can significantly improve the effectiveness and credibility of ADASs. However, a real-time safety assessment remains a [...] Read more.

Road traffic accidents result in numerous fatalities and injuries annually. Advanced driving assistance systems (ADASs) have garnered significant attention to mitigate these harms. An accurate safety assessment can significantly improve the effectiveness and credibility of ADASs. However, a real-time safety assessment remains a key challenge due to the complex interactions among humans, vehicles, and the road environment. Traditional safety assessment methods, relying on crash data and surrogate safety measures (SSMs), face limitations in real-time applicability and scenario coverage, especially in freeway ramp areas with frequent merging and lane changing. To address these gaps, this paper develops a driving safety field based on the uncertainty of vehicle movements, which integrates the characteristics of driving behaviors, vehicles, and the road environment. The proposed method is validated with a simulation of driving scenarios and ROC curves obtained from the NGSIM dataset. The results demonstrate that our proposed driving safety field effectively quantifies the real-time risk in ramp influence areas and outperforms Time to Collision (TTC), making it suitable for integration into collision warning systems of ADASs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of System Engineering and Complex Theory in Transportation)

16 pages, 10120 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insight into the Structural and Performance Correlation of Photocatalytic TiO₂/Cu Composite Films Prepared by Magnetron Sputtering Method

by Kun Lu, Miao Sun, Yaohong Jiang, Xinmeng Wu, Lijun Zhao and Junhua Xu

Catalysts 2024, 14(9), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14090621 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Photocatalysis technology, as an efficient and safe environmentally friendly purification technique, has garnered significant attention and interest. Traditional TiO₂ photocatalytic materials still face limitations in practical applications, hindering their widespread adoption. The research prepared TiO₂/Cu films with different Cu contents [...] Read more.

Photocatalysis technology, as an efficient and safe environmentally friendly purification technique, has garnered significant attention and interest. Traditional TiO₂ photocatalytic materials still face limitations in practical applications, hindering their widespread adoption. The research prepared TiO₂/Cu films with different Cu contents using a magnetron sputtering multi-target co-deposition technique. The incorporation of Cu significantly enhances the antibacterial properties and visible light response of the films. The effects of different Cu contents on the microstructure, surface morphology, wettability, antibacterial properties, and visible light response of the films were investigated using an X-ray diffractometer, X-ray photoelectron spectrometer, field emission scanning electron microscope, confocal laser scanning microscope, Ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer, and contact angle goniometer. The results showed that the prepared TiO₂/Cu films were mainly composed of the rutile TiO₂ phase and face-center cubic Cu phase. The introduction of Cu affected the crystal orientation of TiO₂ and refined the grain size of the films. With the increase in Cu content, the surface roughness of the films first decreased and then increased. The water contact angle of the films first increased and then decreased, and the film exhibited optimal hydrophobicity when the Cu target power was 10 W. The TiO₂/Cu films showed good antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The introduction of Cu shifted the absorption edge of the films to the red region, significantly narrowed the band gap width to 2.5 eV, and broadened the light response range of the films to the visible light region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tailored Nanosystems and Nanocatalysts for Photo-/Electrocatalytic Applications, 2nd Edition)

30 pages, 9406 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential Use and Chemical Analysis of Some Natural Plant Extracts for Controlling Listeria spp. Growth In Vitro and in Food

by Abdul-Raouf Al-Mohammadi, Seham Abdel-Shafi, Ahmed H. Moustafa, Nehal Fouad, Gamal Enan and Rehab A. Ibrahim

Foods 2024, 13(18), 2915; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13182915 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Listeria are Gram-negative intracellular foodborne pathogens that can cause invasive infections with high mortality rates. In this work, the antibacterial activity of ten essential oils, infusion extracts, and decoction extracts of some medicinal plants was tested against Listeria monocytogenes and listeria ivanovii strains. [...] Read more.

Listeria are Gram-negative intracellular foodborne pathogens that can cause invasive infections with high mortality rates. In this work, the antibacterial activity of ten essential oils, infusion extracts, and decoction extracts of some medicinal plants was tested against Listeria monocytogenes and listeria ivanovii strains. The effects of different physical conditions including temperature, pH, sodium chloride, and some organic acids were studied. The results showed that the water extracts gave the maximum bacterial inhibition, while ethanolic extract was inactive against the tested Listeria spp. The antibiotic sensitivity of L. monocytogenes LMG10470 and L. ivanovii LMZ11352 was tested against five antibiotics including imipenem, levofloxacin, amikacin, ampicillin, and amoxicillin. Imipenem was the most effective antibiotic, resulting in inhibition zones of 40 mm and 31 mm for L. monocytogenes and L. ivanovii, respectively. When imipenem mixed with Syzygium aromaticum oil, Salvia officinalis oil, Pimpinella anisum infusion, and Mentha piperita infusion each, the water extract of Moringa oleifera leaves and seeds against LMG10470 and LMZ11352 resulted in broader antibacterial activity. The antimicrobial activity of both Pimpinella anisum and Mentha piperita plant extracts is related to a variety of bioactive compounds indicated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of these two plant extracts. These two plant extracts seemed to contain many chemical compounds elucidated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and infrared radiation spectra. These compounds could be classified into different chemical groups such as ethers, heterocyclic compounds, aromatic aldehydes, condensed heterocyclic compounds, ketones, alicyclic compounds, aromatics, esters, herbicides, saturated fatty acids, and unsaturated fatty acids. The use of these natural compounds seems to be a useful technological adjuvant for the control of Listeria spp. in foods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Detection and Control of Food-Borne Pathogens)

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14 pages, 441 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reframing Genesis 3:16: Eve’s Creation Memoir

by Mathilde Frey

Religions 2024, 15(9), 1115; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15091115 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

I will read Genesis 3:16 through the lens of Genesis 4. While Eve has become a fixed object in traditional interpretation as a dangerous temptress for man and the cause of humanity’s fall into sin, her story does not end in this chapter. [...] Read more.

I will read Genesis 3:16 through the lens of Genesis 4. While Eve has become a fixed object in traditional interpretation as a dangerous temptress for man and the cause of humanity’s fall into sin, her story does not end in this chapter. Eve’s creative agency as “mother of all living” becomes the framework for the drama that unfolds in Genesis 4. Her body and her voice carry the story of life into the future. This essay shows the connection between Genesis 3:16 and the story in Genesis 4 by moving beyond a linguistic analysis of the common verbs, mashal and teshuqah. I will read the two texts together with the ancient scribes who distinguished Genesis 3:16 by placing this one verse between two setumah markers. Likewise, the story of Eve in Genesis 4:1–5:2 is placed between two setumah markers, thereby showing that ancient Hebrew readings emphasized a close relationship between Genesis 3:16 and Genesis 4:1–5:2. This is opposed to the Christian chapter division, which separates Genesis 3 from the story in Genesis 4, and places Genesis 3 in an authoritative position for the sake of extrapolating the doctrine of the fall into sin with the woman playing the central role in the fall story. I will further engage in deep reading, literary analysis, and performance criticism, and argue that Eve tells her own creation story with masterful subversiveness and creative audacity. The attempt of the essay is to reorient the dominant negative view of Eve toward a more positive, complex, and nuanced reading of her character in the Genesis text. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Re-Imagining the Woman’s “Curse”: Redemptive Readings of Genesis 3:16)

13 pages, 2706 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Weighting Algorithm for Enhanced Broadband Vector Network Analyzer Measurements

by Sang-hee Shin and James Skinner

Mathematics 2024, 12(18), 2871; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12182871 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

A weighting algorithm for application in the Thru-Reflect-Line (TRL) calibration technique is presented to enhance the accuracy and reliability of vector network analyzer (VNA) measurements over broad frequency bands. The method addresses the inherent limitations of the traditional TRL calibration, particularly the step [...] Read more.

A weighting algorithm for application in the Thru-Reflect-Line (TRL) calibration technique is presented to enhance the accuracy and reliability of vector network analyzer (VNA) measurements over broad frequency bands. The method addresses the inherent limitations of the traditional TRL calibration, particularly the step changes observed in banded-TRL approaches when multiple Line standards are used. By introducing a bespoke weighting function that assigns phase-dependent weights to each Line standard, smoother transitions and improved S-parameter measurements can be achieved. Experimental validation using measurements of both 3.5 mm and Type-N devices demonstrates the effectiveness of the weighted-TRL method in eliminating discontinuities and calibration artifacts across a wide range of frequencies. The results reveal the improved calibration of S-parameters this approach can yield compared to traditional TRL calibration methods. The developed weighted-TRL calibration technique offers a significant advancement in metrology-grade measurements, enabling more precise characterization of high-frequency devices across broad frequency bands. By mitigating a key limitation of the TRL calibration, this method provides a valuable tool for enhancing the accuracy and reliability of VNA measurements for precision metrology applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematical Applications in Electrical Engineering)

15 pages, 4009 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation and Application of a New Type of Energy-Saving Steel Claw for Aluminum Electrolysis Cells

by Jinfeng Han, Bing Feng, Zejun Chen, Zhili Liang, Yuran Chen and Xuemin Liang

Sustainability 2024, 16(18), 8061; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16188061 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Aluminum electrolysis is a typical industry with high energy consumption, and the energy saving of aluminum electrolysis cells is conducive to the sustainable development of the ecological environment. The current density distribution on the steel claws of conventional aluminum electrolysis cells is uneven, [...] Read more.

Aluminum electrolysis is a typical industry with high energy consumption, and the energy saving of aluminum electrolysis cells is conducive to the sustainable development of the ecological environment. The current density distribution on the steel claws of conventional aluminum electrolysis cells is uneven, resulting in a large amount of power loss. Therefore, a new type of current-equalized steel claw (CESC) is designed in this paper. The ANSYS simulation study shows that the CESC can achieve a more uniform current density distribution and reduce the voltage drop by about 36 mV compared with the traditional steel claw (TSC). In addition, the use of CESC optimizes the temperature distribution of the steel claws and reduces the risk of cracking and deformation. The results of the industrial application tests are highly consistent with the simulation results, confirming the accuracy of the simulation results. The economic benefit analysis shows that using CESC saves 114.1 kWh of electricity per ton of aluminum produced. If this technology can be promoted throughout China, it is expected to save up to 4.75 billion kWh of electricity annually. The development of CESC is promising and of great significance for improving the overall technical level of the aluminum electrolysis industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Steel Construction)

32 pages, 3251 KiB

Open AccessReview

Research Progress on Rolling Forming of Tungsten Alloy

by Jun Cao, Jie Xia, Xiaoyu Shen, Kexing Song, Yanjun Zhou and Chengqiang Cui

Materials 2024, 17(18), 4531; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17184531 (registering DOI) - 14 Sep 2024

Abstract

Tungsten is a metal with many unique characteristics, such as a high melting point, high hardness, high chemical stability, etc. It is widely used in high-end manufacturing, new energy, the defense industry, and other fields. However, tungsten also has room-temperature brittleness, recrystallization brittleness, [...] Read more.

Tungsten is a metal with many unique characteristics, such as a high melting point, high hardness, high chemical stability, etc. It is widely used in high-end manufacturing, new energy, the defense industry, and other fields. However, tungsten also has room-temperature brittleness, recrystallization brittleness, and other shortcomings due to the adjustment of the composition and organizational structure, such as the addition of alloying elements, adjusting the phase ratio, the use of heat treatment and deformation strengthening, etc. Its performance can be improved to meet the requirements for use in different fields. At present, the main production method of tungsten alloy is powder metallurgy. The use of a rolling open billet rotary forging–stretching process can improve production efficiency and product quality, but in actual production, due to the combined effects of various factors, such as elastic deformation of rolling elements, plastic deformation of the rolled material, etc., the mechanical properties of tungsten plates and bars are often difficult to control effectively, seriously affecting rolling stability and production efficiency. For this reason, researchers have conducted extensive and deep research and optimization on the rolling process of tungsten alloys, including establishing mathematical models, performing numerical simulations, optimizing process parameters, etc., providing important references for the rolling and forming of tungsten alloys. Meanwhile, the material properties are greatly influenced by the microstructure, and the evolution of the microstructure can be well quantified by some advanced characterization techniques, such as SEM, TEM, EBSD, etc., so that certain properties of tungsten can be obtained by controlling the texture evolution. In conclusion, this paper comprehensively summarizes the research progress of tungsten alloy roll forming and provides an important reference for further improving the processing performance and production efficiency of tungsten alloy. Full article

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