The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
18 pages, 6063 KiB  
Article
Development of Individual Rotor Mutual Induction (IRMI) Method for Coaxial Counter-Rotating Rotor
by Shigeo Yoshida, Haruto Fuchiwaki and Koji Matsuoka
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4782; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114782 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
A coaxial counter-rotating rotor (CCRR), which has two rotors rotating in the opposite directions on the same axis, is seen as a promising technology for low-cost floating tidal current/ocean current power generation using single-point mooring, as the torques of the front and rear [...] Read more.
A coaxial counter-rotating rotor (CCRR), which has two rotors rotating in the opposite directions on the same axis, is seen as a promising technology for low-cost floating tidal current/ocean current power generation using single-point mooring, as the torques of the front and rear rotors are cancelled. In the evaluation and design of such turbines, there is a need for an accurate analysis method with a low computational load that considers the strong mutual induction between the two rotors placed close together. An individual rotor mutual induction (IRMI) method was developed in this study, aiming to significantly reduce the calculation time of conventional computational fluid dynamics (CFD), considering the mutual induction that are not considered in conventional modified blade element and momentum methods. In this method, the basic characteristics of the front and rear rotors are calculated in advance using full-model CFD. In calculations for the CCRR, in addition to these individual characteristics of each rotor, the interaction between the rotors is considered using the actuator disk model CFD calculated in advance. The condition where the torques of the front and rear rotors are cancelled is determined at the same time. This method was used to analyze models in which the front and rear rotors were approximately the same diameter and placed close together (10% of the rotor diameter). A comparison with the mixing plane model CFD revealed that they agree quite well when mutual induction is considered, although both the power and thrust are overcalculated when it is ignored. The simulation time of the IRMI would be almost counter-proportional to the numbers of TSR conditions to solve as compared with the CFD with the MP model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fluid Science and Technology)
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13 pages, 1021 KiB  
Article
Fault-Tolerant Control Based on Current Space Vectors against Total Sensor Failures
by Cuong Dinh Tran, Martin Kuchar, Vojtech Sotola and Phuong Duy Nguyen
Sensors 2024, 24(11), 3558; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113558 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This paper proposes a fault-tolerant control (FTC) strategy using the current space vectors to diagnose sensor failures and enhance the sustained operation of a field-oriented (FO) controlled induction motor drive (IMD). Three space vectors are established for the sensor fault diagnosis technique, including [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a fault-tolerant control (FTC) strategy using the current space vectors to diagnose sensor failures and enhance the sustained operation of a field-oriented (FO) controlled induction motor drive (IMD). Three space vectors are established for the sensor fault diagnosis technique, including one converted from the measured currents and the other two calculated from the current estimation technique, respectively, measured and with reference speeds. A mixed mathematical model using three space vectors and their components is proposed to accurately determine the fault condition of each sensor in the motor drive. After determining the operating status of each sensor, if the sensor signal is in good condition, the feedback signal to the controller will be the measured signal; otherwise, the estimated signal will be used instead of the failed signal. Failure states of the various sensors were simulated to check the effectiveness of the proposed technique in the Matlab/Simulink environment. The simulation results are positive: the IMD system applying the proposed FTC technique accurately detected the failed sensor and maintained stability during the operation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fault Diagnosis & Sensors)
26 pages, 14300 KiB  
Article
SolDef_AI: An Open Source PCB Dataset for Mask R-CNN Defect Detection in Soldering Processes of Electronic Components
by Gianmauro Fontana, Maurizio Calabrese, Leonardo Agnusdei, Gabriele Papadia and Antonio Del Prete
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2024, 8(3), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp8030117 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The soldering process for aerospace applications follows stringent requirements and standards to ensure the reliability and safety of electronic connections in aerospace systems. For this reason, the quality control phase plays an important role to guarantee requirements compliance. This process often requires manual [...] Read more.
The soldering process for aerospace applications follows stringent requirements and standards to ensure the reliability and safety of electronic connections in aerospace systems. For this reason, the quality control phase plays an important role to guarantee requirements compliance. This process often requires manual control since technicians’ knowledge is fundamental to obtain effective quality check results. In this context, the authors have developed a new open source dataset (SolDef_AI) to implement an innovative methodology for printed circuit board (PCB) defect detection exploiting the Mask R-CNN algorithm. The presented open source dataset aims to overcome the challenges associated with the availability of datasets for model training in this specific research and electronics industrial field. The dataset is open source and available online. Full article
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Article
Understanding Professionals’ Knowledge Regarding Factors Influencing Changes in Attitudes toward Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting in Post-Migration Communities in Geneva, Switzerland
by Nasteha Salah, Nicola Cantoreggi, Patrick Petignat and Jasmine Abdulcadir
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 716; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060716 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C) is a practice involving the partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. To facilitate attitude changes, the ecological model of behavior change considers multiple levels of influence and their relationships with environmental [...] Read more.
Female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C) is a practice involving the partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. To facilitate attitude changes, the ecological model of behavior change considers multiple levels of influence and their relationships with environmental and behavioral factors. The combined effects of migration and cultural adaptation result in a transformative process that leads to decreased support for FGM/C. This qualitative study aimed to gain knowledge from FGM/C field professionals regarding the factors promoting behavioral changes in migrant communities in Geneva, Switzerland. Between September and October 2023, we conducted semi-structured interviews using a reflexive thematic analysis. Our qualitative research is reported in accordance with the COREQ criteria. A data analysis was performed using NVivo 14 software. Four influential dimensions were identified, each with associated factors. The first dimension, the social level, includes (1) the impact and implementation of anti-FGM/C laws. The second dimension, the community level, encompasses four factors such as (2) religion, (3) a multifaceted examination of social aspects, (4) navigating language barriers and raising awareness, and (5) cultural adaptation processes. The third dimension, the interpersonal level, includes factors such as (6) changing views on the marriage prerequisite. Finally, the fourth dimension, the personal level, is associated with (7) women’s experiences and perspectives regarding FGM/C. The findings highlight seven environmental factors, both within and across dimensions of the ecological model, that interact with human behavior to enable an adaptive cultural process. This process influences changes in attitudes and behaviors regarding FGM/C. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)
20 pages, 5845 KiB  
Article
Identification of Anticancer Enzymes and Biomarkers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma through Constraint-Based Modeling
by Feng-Sheng Wang and Hao-Xiang Zhang
Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2594; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112594 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Abstract: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) results in the abnormal regulation of cellular metabolic pathways. Constraint-based modeling approaches can be utilized to dissect metabolic reprogramming, enabling the identification of biomarkers and anticancer targets for diagnosis and treatment. In this study, two genome-scale metabolic models [...] Read more.
Abstract: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) results in the abnormal regulation of cellular metabolic pathways. Constraint-based modeling approaches can be utilized to dissect metabolic reprogramming, enabling the identification of biomarkers and anticancer targets for diagnosis and treatment. In this study, two genome-scale metabolic models (GSMMs) were reconstructed by employing RNA sequencing expression patterns of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and their healthy counterparts. An anticancer target discovery (ACTD) framework was integrated with the two models to identify HCC targets for anticancer treatment. The ACTD framework encompassed four fuzzy objectives to assess both the suppression of cancer cell growth and the minimization of side effects during treatment. The composition of a nutrient may significantly affect target identification. Within the ACTD framework, ten distinct nutrient media were utilized to assess nutrient uptake for identifying potential anticancer enzymes. The findings revealed the successful identification of target enzymes within the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway using a cholesterol-free cell culture medium. Conversely, target enzymes in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway were not identified when the nutrient uptake included a cholesterol component. Moreover, the enzymes PGS1 and CRL1 were detected in all ten nutrient media. Additionally, the ACTD framework comprises dual-group representations of target combinations, pairing a single-target enzyme with an additional nutrient uptake reaction. Additionally, the enzymes PGS1 and CRL1 were identified across the ten-nutrient media. Furthermore, the ACTD framework encompasses two-group representations of target combinations involving the pairing of a single-target enzyme with an additional nutrient uptake reaction. Computational analysis unveiled that cell viability for all dual-target combinations exceeded that of their respective single-target enzymes. Consequently, integrating a target enzyme while adjusting an additional exchange reaction could efficiently mitigate cell proliferation rates and ATP production in the treated cancer cells. Nevertheless, most dual-target combinations led to lower side effects in contrast to their single-target counterparts. Additionally, differential expression of metabolites between cancer cells and their healthy counterparts were assessed via parsimonious flux variability analysis employing the GSMMs to pinpoint potential biomarkers. The variabilities of the fluxes and metabolite flow rates in cancer and healthy cells were classified into seven categories. Accordingly, two secretions and thirteen uptakes (including eight essential amino acids and two conditionally essential amino acids) were identified as potential biomarkers. The findings of this study indicated that cancer cells exhibit a higher uptake of amino acids compared with their healthy counterparts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computational and Theoretical Chemistry)
Review
Beyond the First Tipping Points of Southern Hemisphere Climate
by Terence J. O’Kane, Jorgen S. Frederiksen, Carsten S. Frederiksen and Illia Horenko
Climate 2024, 12(6), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli12060081 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Analysis of observations, reanalysis, and model simulations, including those using machine learning methods specifically designed for regime identification, has revealed changes in aspects of the Southern Hemisphere (SH) circulation and Australian climate and extremes over the last half-century that indicate transitions to new [...] Read more.
Analysis of observations, reanalysis, and model simulations, including those using machine learning methods specifically designed for regime identification, has revealed changes in aspects of the Southern Hemisphere (SH) circulation and Australian climate and extremes over the last half-century that indicate transitions to new states. In particular, our analysis shows a dramatic shift in the metastability of the SH climate that occurred in the late 1970s, associated with a large-scale regime transition in the SH atmospheric circulation, with systematic changes in the subtropical jet, blocking, zonal winds, and storm tracks. Analysis via nonstationary clustering reveals a regime shift coincident with a sharp transition to warmer oceanic sea surface temperatures and increased baroclinicity in the large scales of the Antarctic Circumpolar Circulation (ACC), extending across the whole hemisphere. At the same time, the background state of the tropical Pacific thermocline shoaled, leading to an increased likelihood of El Niño events. The SH climate shift in the late 1970s is the first hemispheric regime shift that can be directly attributed to anthropogenic climate change. These changes in dynamics are associated with additional regional tipping points, including reductions in mean and extreme rainfall in south-west Western Australia (SWWA) and streamflow into Perth dams, and also with increases in mean and extreme rainfall over northern Australia since the late 1970s. The drying of south-eastern Australia (SEA) occurred against a background of accelerating increases in average and extreme temperatures across the whole continent since the 1990s, implying further inflection points may have occurred. Analysis of climate model simulations capturing the essence of these observed shifts indicates that these systematic changes will continue into the late 21st century under high greenhouse gas emission scenarios. Here, we review two decades of work, revealing for the first time that tipping points characteristic of regime transitions are inferred to have already occurred in the SH climate system. Full article
20 pages, 2861 KiB  
Article
Advanced Levelized Cost Evaluation Method for Electric Vehicle Stations Concurrently Producing Electricity and Hydrogen
by Mustafa Tahir, Sideng Hu and Haoqi Zhu
Energies 2024, 17(11), 2682; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112682 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This study develops a new method to evaluate the economic viability of co-generation electric vehicle stations that concurrently generate electricity and hydrogen for charging battery electric vehicles and refueling hydrogen vehicles. The approach uniquely differentiates the costs associated with various energy outputs in [...] Read more.
This study develops a new method to evaluate the economic viability of co-generation electric vehicle stations that concurrently generate electricity and hydrogen for charging battery electric vehicles and refueling hydrogen vehicles. The approach uniquely differentiates the costs associated with various energy outputs in co-generation stations and includes often-overlooked peripheral devices critical for accurate evaluation of the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) and hydrogen (LCOH). The method was tested across three design configurations: two featuring single storage options (battery and fuel cell, respectively) and a third using hybrid storage employing both. Each configuration was modeled, simulated, and optimized using HOMER Pro 3.14.2 to determine the most optimal sizing solution. Then, based on the optimal sizing of each design, LCOE and LCOH were evaluated using the proposed method in this study. The analysis revealed that excluding often-overlooked peripheral devices could lead to a 27.7% error in LCOH evaluation, while the impact on LCOE was less than 1%. Among different configurations, the design with hybrid storage proved economically superior, achieving a total levelized cost of energy (TLCOE) for the entire system of USD 0.113/kWh, with the LCOE at USD 0.025/kWh and LCOH at USD 0.088/kWh (or USD 3.46/kg). Comparative analysis with state-of-the-art studies confirmed the accuracy of the proposed method. This study provides a more precise and holistic approach that can be leveraged for the feasibility analysis of electric vehicle stations globally, enhancing strategic decision-making in sustainable energy planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Power Quality 2023)
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Article
Multi-Scale Urban Natural Ventilation Climate Guidance: A Case Study in the Shijiazhuang Metropolitan Area
by Shuo Zhang, Xiaoyi Fang, Chen Cheng, Jing Chen, Fengxia Guo, Ying Yu and Shanshan Yang
Atmosphere 2024, 15(6), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15060676 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The rapid development of urbanization has caused obstructed urban natural ventilation and the contribution rate of urbanization is relatively high. Therefore, there is an urgent need for urban development planning that should respect natural ventilation and local climate to reduce negative impacts. By [...] Read more.
The rapid development of urbanization has caused obstructed urban natural ventilation and the contribution rate of urbanization is relatively high. Therefore, there is an urgent need for urban development planning that should respect natural ventilation and local climate to reduce negative impacts. By optimizing the urban construction layout to reduce obstruction and leave a passageway for wind to blow in, the natural ventilation environment could be improved. This paper presents a promising approach for natural ventilation planning at both the city and community scales. Based on the assessment of wind environment, heat island intensity, and ventilation potential, the results revealed that winds blowing from the western and northern mountainous area of Shijiazhuang play a natural ventilation inlet role which can provide clean air. The SSHI and SHI were mainly distributed within the Second Ring Road, which has a large proportion of the low ventilation potential level. Thus, six first-class ventilation corridors and thirteen secondary corridors were recommended, which were set to be adapted to the dominant wind direction. Subsequently, an urban climate analysis map (UCAnMap) was developed considering climate sensitivity, and planning recommendations were provided for different climate zones. The relationship between architectural spatial structure and ventilation efficiency was analyzed; the results revealed that increasing the height of the buildings will decrease the proportion of comfortable wind zones, and the overall ventilation efficiency will weaken, so the average building height of a typical block should be controlled within 45 m, which matches ventilation performance requirements. The ventilation efficiency of the block has a certain negative correlation with the building density, and as the building density decreased by more than 10%, the proportion of the comfortable wind zones could increase by 4–5%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Heat Islands and Global Warming (2nd Edition))
Article
High-Risk Genotypes of Human Papillomavirus at Diverse Anogenital Sites among Chinese Women: Infection Features and Potential Correlation with Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
by Chao Zhao, Jiahui An, Mingzhu Li, Jingran Li, Yun Zhao, Jianliu Wang, Heidi Qunhui Xie and Lihui Wei
Cancers 2024, 16(11), 2107; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16112107 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Both cervical cancer and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection at different anogenital sites, but the infection features of high-risk (HR) HPVs at these sites and their association with cervical lesions have not been well characterized. Given [...] Read more.
Background: Both cervical cancer and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection at different anogenital sites, but the infection features of high-risk (HR) HPVs at these sites and their association with cervical lesions have not been well characterized. Given the limitation of cervical HPV 16/18 test in screening patients with high-grade CIN (CIN 2+), studies on whether non-16/18 HR-HPV subtype(s) have potential as additional indicator(s) to improve CIN 2+ screening are needed. Methods: The infection of 15 HR-HPVs in vulva, anus, vagina, and cervix of 499 Chinese women was analyzed, and CIN lesion-associated HR-HPV subtypes were revealed. Results: In addition to the well-known cervical-cancer-associated HPV 16, 52, and 58, HPV 51, 53, and 56 were also identified as high-frequency detected subtypes prevalently and consistently present at the anogenital sites studied, preferentially in multi-infection patterns. HPV 16, 52, 58, 56, and 53 were the top five prevalent subtypes in patients with CIN 2+. In addition, we found that cervical HPV 33/35/52/53/56/58 co-testing with HPV 16/18 might improve CIN 2+ screening performance. Conclusion: This study provided a new insight into HR-HPV screening strategy based on different subtype combinations, which might be used in risk stratification clinically. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cervical Cancer: Screening and Treatment in 2024)
14 pages, 8294 KiB  
Article
Orange Peel Biochar–CdS Composites for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
by Xiang Li, Yuxin Zang, Jindi Zhang, Lili Zhang, Jing Zhang, Mengyang Huang and Jiaqiang Wang
Inorganics 2024, 12(6), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics12060156 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Orange peel biochar (C)-supported cadmium sulfide composites (CdS-C) were prepared by the combination of hydrothermal and calcination methods. The structure and morphology were characterized in detail by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The CdS-C composite with 60% CdS exhibited [...] Read more.
Orange peel biochar (C)-supported cadmium sulfide composites (CdS-C) were prepared by the combination of hydrothermal and calcination methods. The structure and morphology were characterized in detail by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The CdS-C composite with 60% CdS exhibited the highest photocatalytic hydrogen production rate of 7.8 mmol·g−1·h−1, approximately 3.69 times higher than that of synthesized CdS without biochar. These results indicate that biochar derived from orange peel could be a low-cost, renewable, environmentally friendly, and metal-free co-catalyst for CdS, enhancing its photostability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Application of Luminescent Materials)
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18 pages, 970 KiB  
Review
Annual Review of In Situ Observations of Tropical Cyclone–Ocean Interaction in the Western North Pacific during 2023
by Hailun He, Ruizhen Tian, Xinyan Lyu, Zheng Ling, Jia Sun and Anzhou Cao
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(11), 1990; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16111990 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
We present a review of in situ observations regarding the interactions between tropical cyclones and the ocean in the western North Pacific for the year 2023. A total of at least 13 tropical cyclones occurred during this period. According to the Japan Meteorological [...] Read more.
We present a review of in situ observations regarding the interactions between tropical cyclones and the ocean in the western North Pacific for the year 2023. A total of at least 13 tropical cyclones occurred during this period. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, Typhoon Mawar recorded the yearly minimum pressure at 900 hPar. On average, each tropical cyclone captured 7.4 surface drifters and 25.2 Argo floats when the search radius is 300 km. During Guchol, the maximum in situ Lagrangian current reached 1.23 m/s, with sustained wind speeds of the tropical cyclone up to 31.7 m/s and a relative position of 174 km. Additionally, several Argo floats were active during tropical cyclones, with maximum sea surface temperature cooling reaching 0.66 °C. This annual review provides a comprehensive summary of the current state of in situ observations regarding tropical cyclone–ocean interaction. These findings serve as valuable references for both scientific research and operational forecasting. Full article
13 pages, 666 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Interplay between Asthma and Hemoglobinopathies: A Comprehensive Review
by Cristiana Indolfi, Giulio Dinardo, Carolina Grella, Angela Klain, Alessandra Perrotta, Gianluca Mondillo, Maria Maddalena Marrapodi, Fabio Decimo and Michele Miraglia del Giudice
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3263; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113263 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Asthma, a prevalent chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the airways and bronchoconstriction, has demonstrated a potential association with hemoglobinopathies such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD). Numerous studies have highlighted a higher prevalence of asthma among thalassemia patients compared to [...] Read more.
Asthma, a prevalent chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the airways and bronchoconstriction, has demonstrated a potential association with hemoglobinopathies such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD). Numerous studies have highlighted a higher prevalence of asthma among thalassemia patients compared to the general population, with rates ranging around 30%. Similarly, asthma frequently coexists with SCD, affecting approximately 20–48% of patients. Children with SCD often experience heightened lower airway obstruction and airway hyper-reactivity. Notably, the presence of asthma in SCD exacerbates respiratory symptoms and increases the risk of severe complications like acute chest syndrome, stroke, vaso-occlusive episodes, and early mortality. Several studies have noted a decrease in various cytokines such as IFN-γ and IL-10, along with higher levels of both IL-6 and IL-8, suggesting an overactivation of pro-inflammatory mechanisms in patients with hemoglobinopathies, which could trigger inflammatory conditions such as asthma. The exact mechanisms driving this association are better elucidated but may involve factors such as chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune dysregulation associated with thalassemia-related complications like chronic hemolytic anemia and iron overload. This review aims to comprehensively analyze the relationship between asthma and hemoglobinopathies, with a focus on thalassemia and SCD. It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among pulmonologists, hematologists, and other healthcare professionals to effectively manage this complex interplay. Understanding this link is crucial for improving care and outcomes in affected individuals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Children and Adolescents with Asthma)
35 pages, 3708 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Biogenic Souring in Oil Reservoirs under Secondary and Tertiary Oil Recovery
by Hakan Alkan, Felix Kögler, Gyunay Namazova, Stephan Hatscher, Wolfgang Jelinek and Mohd Amro
Energies 2024, 17(11), 2681; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112681 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The formation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in petroleum reservoirs by anaerobic microbial activity (through sulfate-reducing microorganisms, SRMs) is called biogenic souring of reservoirs and poses a risk in the petroleum industry as the compound is extremely toxic, flammable, and corrosive, causing [...] Read more.
The formation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in petroleum reservoirs by anaerobic microbial activity (through sulfate-reducing microorganisms, SRMs) is called biogenic souring of reservoirs and poses a risk in the petroleum industry as the compound is extremely toxic, flammable, and corrosive, causing devastating damage to reservoirs and associated surface facilities. In this paper, we present a workflow and the tools to assess biogenic souring from a pragmatic engineering perspective. The retention of H2S in the reservoir due to the reactions with iron-bearing rock minerals (e.g., siderite) is shown in a theoretical approach here and supported with literature data. Cases are provided for two fields under secondary (waterflooding) and tertiary flooding with microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR). The use of the Monte Carlo method as a numerical modeling tool to incorporate uncertainties in the measured physical/chemical/biochemical data is demonstrated as well. A list of studies conducted with different chemicals alone or in combination with various biocides to mitigate biogenic souring provides an overview of potential inhibitors as well as possible applications. Furthermore, the results of static and dynamic inhibition tests using molybdate are presented in more detail due to its promising mitigation ability. Finally, a three-step workflow for the risk assessment of biogenic souring and its possible mitigation is presented and discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Petroleum and Gas Engineering)
12 pages, 871 KiB  
Article
Superficial Keratectomy Alone versus in Combination with Amniotic Membrane Transplantation in Aniridia-Associated Keratopathy and a Short-Term Clinical Outcome
by Bogumił Wowra, Marzena Wysocka-Kosmulska, Dariusz Dobrowolski and Edward Wylęgała
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3258; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113258 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK) is a potentially vision-threatening pathology in congenital aniridia, for which both the underlying etiopathogenesis and effective treatment remain unclear. Methods:This prospective study was conducted to assess and compare the short-term outcome after superficial keratectomy (SK) alone or [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK) is a potentially vision-threatening pathology in congenital aniridia, for which both the underlying etiopathogenesis and effective treatment remain unclear. Methods:This prospective study was conducted to assess and compare the short-term outcome after superficial keratectomy (SK) alone or in a combination with an amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT). Here, 76 eyes were enrolled in 76 patients with grade 4 AAK. In all eyes, in order to assess preoperatively the efficiency of the limbal epithelial stem cells (LESC), the presence of corneal epithelial cells in confocal microscopy was established. The analyses included: best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the stage of AAK and the number of corneal quadrants involved in corneal neovascularization (CNV). Results: Six months after surgery, the mean BCVA was 0.05 and ranged from 0.002 up to 0.1 in both groups. Improvement in BCVA occurred in 94.29% patients when *SK alone* was performed, and in 92.68% when in combination with AMT. There were no statistically significant differences in the effect of therapy depending on the type of surgery, regarding BCVA, stage of AAK and the number of quadrants with CNV. Conclusions: SK alone is an effective procedure in short outcomes limited to six months for advanced AAK in association with LESC partial efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corneal Transplantation: Recent Advances and Current Perspectives)
13 pages, 351 KiB  
Review
Utilizing Telemedicine Applications in Celiac Disease and Other Gluten-Free-Diet-Dependent Conditions: Insights from the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Motti Haimi and Aaron Lerner
Healthcare 2024, 12(11), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12111132 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Globally, approximately 1.4% of people have celiac disease (CD), induced by gluten sensitivity. If left untreated, it causes small intestinal inflammation and villous atrophy, which can result in failure to thrive, anemia, osteoporosis, malabsorption, and even malignancy. The only treatment option available [...] Read more.
Background: Globally, approximately 1.4% of people have celiac disease (CD), induced by gluten sensitivity. If left untreated, it causes small intestinal inflammation and villous atrophy, which can result in failure to thrive, anemia, osteoporosis, malabsorption, and even malignancy. The only treatment option available is a gluten-free diet (GFD). Few studies have looked at the role and perception of telehealth in relation to CD and selective nutrition both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Aim: Our goal was to screen and investigate the research conducted both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic concerning the utilization of telehealth applications and solutions in CD and other GFD-dependent circumstances. Methods: We employed a narrative review approach to explore articles that were published in scholarly journals or organizations between the years 2000 and 2024. Only English-language publications were included. PubMed and Google Scholar searches were mainly conducted using the following keywords: telemedicine, telehealth, telecare, eHealth, m-health, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, celiac disease, and gluten-free diet (GFD). Manual searches of the references in the acquired literature were also carried out, along with the authors’ own personal contributions of their knowledge and proficiency in this field. Results: Only a few studies conducted prior to the COVID-19 outbreak examined the viewpoints and experiences of adult patients with CD with relation to in-person clinic visits, as well as other options such as telehealth. The majority of patients believed that phone consultations were appropriate and beneficial. Video conferencing and telemedicine became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the effectiveness of using these technologies for CD on a global basis. In recent years, urine assays for gluten identification have become accessible for use at home. These tests could be helpful for CD monitoring with telemedicine assistance. Conclusions: The extended knowledge gathered from the COVID-19 pandemic is expected to complement pre-COVID-19 data supporting the usefulness of telemedicine even after the emergent pandemic, encouraging its wider adoption in standard clinical practice. The monitoring and follow-up of CD patients and other GFD-dependent conditions can greatly benefit from telemedicine. Full article
16 pages, 764 KiB  
Article
Combining PDMS Composite and Plasmonic Solid Chemosensors: Dual Determination of Ammonium and Hydrogen Sulfide as Biomarkers in a Saliva Single Test
by Belen Monforte-Gómez, Sergio Mallorca-Cebriá, Carmen Molins-Legua and Pilar Campíns-Falcó
Chemosensors 2024, 12(6), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors12060094 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
In recent years, in the field of bioanalysis, the use of saliva as a biological fluid for the determination of biomarkers has been proposed. Saliva analysis stands out for its simplicity and non-invasive sampling. This paper proposes a method for the dual determination [...] Read more.
In recent years, in the field of bioanalysis, the use of saliva as a biological fluid for the determination of biomarkers has been proposed. Saliva analysis stands out for its simplicity and non-invasive sampling. This paper proposes a method for the dual determination of ammonium and hydrogen sulfur in saliva using two colorimetric chemosensors. The ammonia reacts with 1,2-Naftoquinone 4 sulphonic acid (NQS) entrapped in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and the hydrogen sulfide with AgNPs retained in a nylon membrane. The color changed from orange to brown in the case of ammonia chemosensors and from yellow to brown in the H2S. The experimental conditions to be tested have been established. Both analytes have been determined from their gaseous form; these are ammonia from ammonium and hydrogen sulfur from hydrogen sulfur. Good figures of merit have been obtained by using both measuring strategies (reflectance diffuse and digitalized images). The acquired results show that both sensors can be used and provide good selectivity and sensitivity for the determination of these biomarkers in saliva. Both measurement strategies have provided satisfactory results for the real saliva samples (n = 15). Recoveries on spiked samples were between 70 and 100%. This methodology can lead to possible in situ diagnosis and monitoring of certain diseases and pathologies related with NH4+ and/or H2S, in a fast, simple, cheap and non-invasive way. Full article
14 pages, 520 KiB  
Article
Impact of a Nyakaza Move-for-Health Intervention Programme among Adolescents in a Resource-Constrained South African Community
by Patrick Mkhanyiseli Zimu, Hendrik Johannes van Heerden and Jeanne Martin Grace
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060717 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Adolescents in resource-constrained environments face increasing sedentary lifestyles and obesity rates, necessitating effective interventions for promoting physical activity and combating non-communicable diseases. This study evaluates the impact of a 12 week Nyakaza Move-for-Health intervention on physical activity, anthropometry, cardiorespiratory fitness, and behaviour change [...] Read more.
Adolescents in resource-constrained environments face increasing sedentary lifestyles and obesity rates, necessitating effective interventions for promoting physical activity and combating non-communicable diseases. This study evaluates the impact of a 12 week Nyakaza Move-for-Health intervention on physical activity, anthropometry, cardiorespiratory fitness, and behaviour change among adolescents in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. One hundred twenty-eight adolescents participated, with assessments including self-reported physical activity, anthropometric indices, and cardiorespiratory fitness measures. The intervention significantly increased physical activity levels. The treatment group’s mean score was 2.2 (0.4) at baseline and 2.6 (0.4) (F (14, 79) = 4.884, p = <0.001, η2 = 0.156) at the endline. The body mass index decreased (mean = 22.4 (4.6) at baseline and 21.9 (4.2) at endline; p = 0.025, partial eta squared = 0.025, η2 = 0.004). The intervention programme significantly affected the WHR (mean = 0.80 (0.10) at baseline and 0.76 (0.9) at endline; p < 0.001, partial eta squared = 0.327, η2 = 0.100) and the predicted maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) for the treatment group (mean = 42.4 (8.7) at baseline and mean = 43.6 (8.7) at endline; p < 0.711, partial eta squared = 0.017, η2 = 0.033). Focus group discussions indicated shifts in knowledge, attitudes, and motivation towards physical activity. Power analysis revealed strong observed power (PA: 0.983, BMI: 0.098, WHR: 0.887), indicating the robustness of the intervention’s effects. These findings underscore the effectiveness of the intervention in improving physical health outcomes. It is recommended that longitudinal studies be conducted to assess the long-term sustainability and impact of such interventions on adolescents’ health outcomes, thereby informing the development of comprehensive public health policies and programmes to promote physical activity and combat non-communicable diseases in similar settings. Full article
11 pages, 562 KiB  
Systematic Review
Hydrotherapy in Pain Management in Pregnant Women: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
by Elena Mellado-García, Lourdes Díaz-Rodríguez, Jonathan Cortés-Martín, Juan Carlos Sánchez-García, Beatriz Piqueras-Sola, María Montserrat Prieto Franganillo and Raquel Rodríguez-Blanque
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3260; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113260 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background: the benefits of water are significant during the birth process. Improved maternal experience of labor, less use of epidurals, better pain management, shorter labor, and a greater sense of control are observed during the birth process. Objective: This report aims [...] Read more.
Background: the benefits of water are significant during the birth process. Improved maternal experience of labor, less use of epidurals, better pain management, shorter labor, and a greater sense of control are observed during the birth process. Objective: This report aims to determine the benefits of hydrotherapy in clinical childbirth approaches and its applicability in pain control. Methods: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials selected from various databases with no publication date limits was conducted, comparing groups that did not use hydrotherapy with groups that did during labor. Results: Seven articles met the inclusion criteria, with five articles using hot water immersion and two using hot water shower as hydrotherapy treatments. This study identified 840 participants, with the intervention groups including 417 term pregnant women and the control groups including 423 pregnant women. The effect size of hydrotherapy on pain was calculated using the visual analog scale in five articles and analgesic use in the other two articles. Hydrotherapy significantly reduced pain during labor with a mean difference of −0.97 (95% CI: −1.91 to −0.03; I2 = 97.32%, p < 0.001). The duration of the first stage of labor was not significantly affected, with a mean difference of −0.17 h (95% CI: −0.55 to 0.21; I2 = 56.75%, p = 0.059). Additionally, hydrotherapy did not significantly impact the newborns’ Apgar scores at 5 min, with a mean difference of 0.18 (95% CI: −0.48 to 0.85; I2 = 2.15%, p = 0.939). Conclusions: Hydrotherapy is beneficial for pain control in the first stage of labor and does not increase its duration or negatively affect the Apgar score of newborns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Risks and Perinatal Outcomes in Pregnancy and Childbirth)
40 pages, 12422 KiB  
Article
Research on the Carbon Sequestration Capacity of Forest Ecological Network Topological Features and Network Optimization Based on Modification Recognition in the Yellow River Basin Mining Area: A Case Study of Jincheng City
by Maolin Li, Qiang Yu, Chenglong Xu, Jikai Zhao, Yufan Zeng, Yu Wang and Yilin Liu
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(11), 1986; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16111986 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Forests are vital for terrestrial ecosystems, providing crucial functions like carbon sequestration and water conservation. In the Yellow River Basin, where 70% of forest coverage is concentrated in the middle reaches encompassing Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Shanxi provinces, there exists significant potential for coal [...] Read more.
Forests are vital for terrestrial ecosystems, providing crucial functions like carbon sequestration and water conservation. In the Yellow River Basin, where 70% of forest coverage is concentrated in the middle reaches encompassing Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Shanxi provinces, there exists significant potential for coal production, with nine planned coal bases. This study centered on Jincheng City, Shanxi Province, a representative coal mining area in the Yellow River Basin, and combined the MSPA analysis method and MCR model to generate the five-period forest ecological network of Jincheng City from 1985 to 2022 under the background of coal mining and calculate the degree centrality, closeness centrality, betweenness centrality, and eigenvector centrality; the correlation between the four centralities and carbon sequestration ability is further explored. Simultaneously, employing the RAND-ESU algorithm for motif identification within forest ecological networks, this study integrates the ecological policies of the research area with the specific conditions of the coal mining region to optimize the forest ecological network in Jincheng City. Findings reveal the following. (1) Forest ecological spatial networks: Forest ecological networks exhibit robust overall ecological connectivity in the study area, with potential ecological corridors spanning the region. However, certain areas with high ecological resistance hinder connectivity between key forest ecological nodes under the background of coal mining. (2) Correlation between topological indices and carbon sequestration ecological services: From 1985 to 2022, the carbon sequestration capacity of Jincheng City’s forest source areas increased year by year, and significant positive correlations were observed between degree centrality, betweenness centrality, eigenvector centrality with carbon sequestration ecological services, indicating a strengthening trend over time. (3) Motif Recognition and Ecological Network Optimization: During the study, four types of motifs were identified in the forest ecological network of Jincheng City based on the number of nodes and their connections using the RAND-ESU network motif algorithm. These motifs are 3a, 4a, 4b, and 4d (where the number represents the number of nodes and the letter represents the connection type). Among these, motifs 3a and 4b play a crucial role. Based on these motifs and practical considerations, network optimization was performed on the existing ecological source areas to enhance the robustness of the forest ecological network. Full article
18 pages, 2722 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Time Domain Vibro-Acoustic Response of Conical Shells using Jacobi–Ritz Boundary Element Method
by Cong Gao, Jiajun Zheng, Fuzhen Pang, Jiawei Xu, Haichao Li and Jibing Yan
Acoustics 2024, 6(2), 523-540; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics6020028 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Considering the lack of studies on the transient vibro-acoustic properties of conical shell structures, a Jacobi–Ritz boundary element method for forced vibro-acoustic behaviors of structure is proposed based on the Newmark-β integral method and the Kirchhoff time domain boundary integral equation. Based on [...] Read more.
Considering the lack of studies on the transient vibro-acoustic properties of conical shell structures, a Jacobi–Ritz boundary element method for forced vibro-acoustic behaviors of structure is proposed based on the Newmark-β integral method and the Kirchhoff time domain boundary integral equation. Based on the idea of the differential element method and the first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT), the vibro-acoustic model of conical shells is established. The axial and circumferential displacement tolerance functions are expressed using Jacobi polynomials and the Fourier series. The time domain response of the forced vibration of conical shells is calculated based on the Rayleigh–Ritz method and Newmark-β integral method. On this basis, the time domain response of radiated noise is solved based on the Kirchhoff integral equation, and the acoustic radiation characteristics of conical shells from forced vibration are analyzed. Compared with the coupled FEM/BEM method, the numerical results demonstrate the high accuracy and great reliability of this method. Furthermore, the semi-vertex angle, load characteristics, and boundary conditions related to the vibro-acoustic response of conical shells are examined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Duct Acoustics)
23 pages, 799 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Potential of Russula griseocarnosa: A Molecular Ecology Perspective
by Yuanchao Liu, Tianqiao Yong, Manjun Cai, Xiaoxian Wu, Huiyang Guo, Yizhen Xie, Huiping Hu and Qingping Wu
Agriculture 2024, 14(6), 879; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14060879 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Russula griseocarnosa, an edible and medicinal mushroom abundant in nutrients and notable bioactivities, is predominantly grown in the broad-leaved forest with trees of the family Fagaceae in southern China. This species forms ectomycorrhizal associations with plant roots and cannot be artificially cultivated [...] Read more.
Russula griseocarnosa, an edible and medicinal mushroom abundant in nutrients and notable bioactivities, is predominantly grown in the broad-leaved forest with trees of the family Fagaceae in southern China. This species forms ectomycorrhizal associations with plant roots and cannot be artificially cultivated currently. Previous research indicates a strong correlation between the growth of R. griseocarnosa and factors such as the host plant, climate variables (specifically mean temperature and precipitation from June to October), and the rhizosphere microbiota of its habitat. However, comprehensive studies on the fundamental biology of this species are lacking. The interaction between R. griseocarnosa and its host plant, as well as the mechanisms underlying the microbial community dynamics within its habitat, remain ambiguous. The limited repertoire and diversity of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) in R. griseocarnosa relative to saprophytic fungi may contribute to its recalcitrance to cultivation on synthetic media. The specific core enzyme and the substances provided by the host plant to facilitate growth are yet to be elucidated, posing a significant challenge in the artificial cultivation of R. griseocarnosa. The habitat of R. griseocarnosa harbours unique microbial communities, indicating the presence of potentially beneficial microorganisms that could be exploited for artificial propagation and conservation efforts. However, the lack of definitive functional verification experiments hinders the realization of this promising prospect. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the nutritional profile and health benefits of R. griseocarnosa, emphasizing recent developments in its isolation, molecular ecology, and artificial cultivation. Additionally, it explores prospective advancements in R. griseocarnosa research, aiming to enrich our foundational understanding for applied purposes and fostering progress in the realm of ectomycorrhizal edible mushrooms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Breeding of Edible Mushroom)
16 pages, 694 KiB  
Article
Medication Risks and Their Association with Patient-Reported Outcomes in Inpatients with Cancer
by Maximilian Günther, Markus Schuler, Leopold Hentschel, Hanna Salm, Marie-Therese Schmitz and Ulrich Jaehde
Cancers 2024, 16(11), 2110; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16112110 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background: We aimed to assess medication risks and determine factors influencing the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in cancer inpatients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted to identify drug-related problems (DRPs) based on medication reviews, including patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Multiple linear regression analyses [...] Read more.
Background: We aimed to assess medication risks and determine factors influencing the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in cancer inpatients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted to identify drug-related problems (DRPs) based on medication reviews, including patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify sociodemographic, disease-related, and drug therapy-related factors influencing changes from hospital admission to discharge in the scales of the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Results: A total of 162 inpatients with various hematological and solid cancer diseases was analyzed. Patients received a mean of 11.6 drugs and 92.6% of patients exhibited polymedication resulting in a mean of 4.0 DRPs per patient. Based on PRO data, 21.5% of DRPs were identified. Multiple linear regression models described the variance of the changes in global HRQOL and physical function in a weak-to-moderate way. While drug therapy-related factors had no influence, relapse status and duration of hospital stay were identified as significant covariates for global HRQOL and physical function, respectively. Conclusion: This analysis describes underlying DRPs in a German cancer inpatient population. PROs provided valuable information for performing medication reviews. The multiple linear regression models for global HRQOL and physical function provided explanations for changes during hospital stay. Full article
16 pages, 8776 KiB  
Article
Virtual Reality-Powered Wrist Therapy: Developing a Therapist-Driven Exit-the-Room Serious Game with Hand Gesture Interactions
by René Baranyi, Christoph Hirber, Lukas Roehrling, Christoph Aigner, Dominik Hoelbling, Werner Hoerner and Thomas Grechenig
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4780; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114780 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Wrist injuries, driven by factors such as an aging population and the popularity of high-impact sports, have become increasingly prevalent. In response, this study focuses on developing a serious game for wrist injury rehabilitation within a virtual environment, aiming to enhance motivation and [...] Read more.
Wrist injuries, driven by factors such as an aging population and the popularity of high-impact sports, have become increasingly prevalent. In response, this study focuses on developing a serious game for wrist injury rehabilitation within a virtual environment, aiming to enhance motivation and therapeutic adherence while highlighting the potential of virtual rehabilitation. Extensive literature research and the involvement of five experts during the game’s design led to the creation of “WristBreakout”, which successfully integrated 13 out of 15 recommended movements into gameplay. In addition, the technical feasibility of the VR headset “MetaQuest” within the domain of wrist rehabilitation was shown. A preliminary evaluation with six healthy participants showed positive results in terms of usability and acceptance (SUS average was 69; UES categories were between 3.97 and 4.77). This work contributes to the broader context of serious games and virtual reality (VR) applications in healthcare, exemplifying how technology can positively impact the rehabilitation experience. Full article

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