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14 pages, 2027 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Diversity of Trypanosoma cruzi in Triatomine Vectors and Their Blood Meal Sources from South Central Texas, USA

by Rebecca J. Kilgore, Trina Guerra, Heather Beck, Andrea Villamizar Gomez, Michael R. J. Forstner and Dittmar Hahn

Biology 2024, 13(7), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13070489 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

The prevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi was assessed in 117 triatomine insects from central Texas. The qPCR-based results revealed T. cruzi in 59% of the insects (62 adults and eight nymphs), with overall prevalences of T. cruzi of 0% (0/9), 64% (11/17), 58% [...] Read more.

The prevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi was assessed in 117 triatomine insects from central Texas. The qPCR-based results revealed T. cruzi in 59% of the insects (62 adults and eight nymphs), with overall prevalences of T. cruzi of 0% (0/9), 64% (11/17), 58% (10/17), 73% (30/41), and 57% (19/33) for the Bastrop, Caldwell, Gonzales, Guadalupe, and Hays counties, respectively. Analyses of 18S rRNA fragments confirmed T. cuzi in 81% of these samples. Vectors were identified as Triatoma gerstaeckeri (35% of which 65% were positive for T. cruzi), T. sanguisuga (21%, 43% positive), and Paratriatoma leticularia (0.3%, 100% positive). Food sources were recovered from 29% of the insects. Raccoons were 53% of the blood meals (83% positive for T. cruzi), while the remainder came from a variety of sources, including humans (33% positive), house geckos, Eastern woodrats, plain-bellied water snakes (50% positive), hispid cotton rats (0% positive), chickens (100% positive); Asian forest turtles, bison, and pigs (0% positive). The serendipitous detection of blood meal sources at known minimum distances from the collection of the vector insect enabled us to provide several instances where the insect foraging distance was greater than 400 m. These vector foraging distances are novel information that can assist in our understanding of the landscape dynamics for the spread of the pathogen. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Leishmaniasis and Chagas Disease: Biology, Epidemiology, Treatment and Control)

25 pages, 9300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Tools for the Preventive Conservation of Built Heritage: The Church of Santa Ana in Seville

by Estefanía Chaves, Jaime Aguilar, Alberto Barontini, Nuno Mendes and Víctor Compán

Heritage 2024, 7(7), 3470-3494; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7070164 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) plays a pivotal role in heritage conservation endeavours, offering a robust framework for digitally documenting existing structures and supporting conservation practices. However, HBIM’s efficacy hinges upon the implementation of case-specific approaches to address the requirements and resources of [...] Read more.

Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) plays a pivotal role in heritage conservation endeavours, offering a robust framework for digitally documenting existing structures and supporting conservation practices. However, HBIM’s efficacy hinges upon the implementation of case-specific approaches to address the requirements and resources of each individual asset and context. This paper defines a flexible and generalisable workflow that encompasses various aspects (i.e., documentation, surveying, vulnerability assessment) to support risk-informed decision making in heritage management tailored to the peculiar conservation needs of the structure. This methodology includes an initial investigation covering historical data collection, metric and condition surveys and non-destructive testing. The second stage includes Finite Element Method (FEM) modelling and structural analysis. All data generated and processed are managed in a multi-purpose HBIM model. The methodology is tested on a relevant case study, namely, the church of Santa Ana in Seville, chosen for its historical significance, intricacy and susceptibility to seismic action. The defined level of detail of the HBIM model is sufficient to inform the structural analysis, being balanced by a more accurate representation of the alterations, through linked orthophotos and a comprehensive list of alphanumerical parameters. This ensures an adequate level of information, optimising the trade-off between model complexity, investigation time requirements, computational burden and reliability in the decision-making process. Field testing and FEM analysis provide valuable insight into the main sources of vulnerability in the building, including the connection between the tower and nave and the slenderness of the columns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architectural Heritage Management in Earthquake-Prone Areas)

18 pages, 1194 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Broiler Chicken Dead-on-Arrival (DOA) Rate in Relation to Normal Transport Conditions in Practice in Germany

by Julia Gickel, Christian Visscher, Nicole Kemper and Birgit Spindler

Animals 2024, 14(13), 1947; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14131947 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

In total, around 631 million broilers were slaughtered in Germany in 2022. This evaluation included data of approx. 198 million broilers of different ages and breeds that were transported in Germany in 2022 (31% of all cases of broiler chicken transport in 2022). [...] Read more.

In total, around 631 million broilers were slaughtered in Germany in 2022. This evaluation included data of approx. 198 million broilers of different ages and breeds that were transported in Germany in 2022 (31% of all cases of broiler chicken transport in 2022). The aim of this study was to analyze German broiler chicken transport (n = 14,054) to the slaughterhouse between January 2022 and May 2023 with regard to the dead-on-arrival (DOA) rate and the possible influencing factors. Therefore, the relation between the total amount of animals per transport, the duration and distance of the transport, the planned stocking density in the transport cages, the average daily temperature and time of day and season of the transport as well as the DOA rate were statistically evaluated. The results showed a mean DOA rate of 0.09% (SD 0.09). Transport conducted at midday (11:00 to 17:00) showed higher DOA rates (p < 0.05) than transport at other times (day split into 6 h intervals). The highest mean DOA rate (0.10%) was found in the fall, followed by the winter, while transport in the spring and summer resulted in the lowest DOA rate (p < 0.05). All in all, the relatively low DOA rate (%) in Germany indicates the good standard of their broiler transport compared to available data from research in other European countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Stress and Welfare during Transport and Slaughtering)

14 pages, 1140 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Removal and Recovery of Europium with a New Functionalized Mesoporous Silica-Based Adsorbent

by Charith Fonseka, Seongchul Ryu, Jaya Kandasamy, Harsha Ratnaweera and Saravanamuthu Vigneswaran

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5636; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135636 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

The discharge of acid mine drainage (AMD), characterized by a high concentration of rare earth elements (REEs), poses a significant threat to the health of ecosystems surrounding water sources. The global market demand for REEs has experienced a notable surge in the past [...] Read more.

The discharge of acid mine drainage (AMD), characterized by a high concentration of rare earth elements (REEs), poses a significant threat to the health of ecosystems surrounding water sources. The global market demand for REEs has experienced a notable surge in the past decade. Consequently, recovering REEs from waste streams like AMD not only benefits the environment but also offers financial advantages. Europium (Eu), the rarest among REEs, constitutes only 0.1% w/w in monazite and bastnaesite ores. Eu is extensively used in the production of phosphors, alloys, and additives, and is a critical raw material for developing smart devices, ranging from high-resolution color screens to circuitry. Traditional adsorbents typically exhibit limited selectivity towards REE recovery. Mesoporous silica materials, such as SBA15 (Santa Barbara Amorphous-15), provide excellent tunability and modification capabilities, making them an attractive and cost-effective alternative. This research focused on two key aspects: (i) evaluating the dynamic adsorption column performance of granulated SBA15–NH–PMIDA to preferentially recover Eu, and (ii) employing mathematical modeling to optimize the dynamic adsorption column’s operating conditions for real-world applications with a minimal number of experimental runs. Granulated SBA15–NH–PMIDA was chosen as the adsorbent due to its high adsorptive capacity and selectivity in capturing Eu. The study revealed that granulated SBA15–NH–PMIDA exhibited 57.47 mg/g adsorption capacity and an 81% selectivity towards Eu. Furthermore, SBA15–NH–PMIDA demonstrated preferential adsorption toward Eu in complex multi-component solutions, such as AMD. The linear driven force approximation model (LDFAM) provided an acceptable simulation (R² > 0.91) under varying operational conditions. This validates the use of the model as a tool to effectively simulate and optimize column experiments that used granulated SBA15–NH–PMIDA to recover Eu. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

21 pages, 2021 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Compactness of Native Vowel Categories in Monolingual, Bilingual, and Multilingual Speakers: Is Category Compactness Affected by the Number of Languages Spoken?

by Vita V. Kogan

Languages 2024, 9(7), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages9070238 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Phonetic category compactness pertains to the degree of variation or dispersion within a specific category. Previous research has shown that more compact native (L1) categories in production have been related to the discrimination of non-native sounds in perception and production. The understanding of [...] Read more.

Phonetic category compactness pertains to the degree of variation or dispersion within a specific category. Previous research has shown that more compact native (L1) categories in production have been related to the discrimination of non-native sounds in perception and production. The understanding of the factors influencing L1 category compactness remains limited. Some proposals suggest that compactness may be influenced by individual differences in cognitive processes. Alternatively, category compactness could be linked to linguistic factors, such as the number of languages spoken or the density of the phonological system. This study investigates the latter hypothesis. This study examined category compactness in perception for three L1 Spanish vowels /i/, /e/, and /a/ across four participant groups: 12 monolinguals, 31 functional monolinguals, 24 bilinguals, and 19 multilinguals. To measure compactness in perception, the study employed a perceptual categorization task consisting of synthesized variants of /i/, /e/, and /a/. Participants were asked to label these variants as either acceptable or unacceptable members of their L1 /i/, /e/, and /a/ categories. The findings revealed significant differences in category compactness between monolingual and bi/multilingual speakers. More specifically, bilingual and multilingual speakers had larger/less compact L1 vowel categories than monolinguals. The substantial variability in compactness across all groups suggests that compactness may be influenced by a range of other individual differences, besides the number of languages spoken. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Investigating L2 Phonological Acquisition from Different Perspectives)

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12 pages, 257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Suzuki–Ćirić-Type Nonlinear Contractions Employing a Locally ζ-Transitive Binary Relation with Applications to Boundary Value Problems

by Doaa Filali and Faizan Ahmad Khan

Mathematics 2024, 12(13), 2058; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12132058 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

This article is devoted to enhancing a class of generalized Suzuki-type nonlinear contractions following Pant to a class of Suzuki–Ćirić-type nonlinear contractions via comparison functions via a locally

ζ

-transitive relation and implemented the same to ascertain certain fixed-point results. The outcomes presented [...] Read more.

This article is devoted to enhancing a class of generalized Suzuki-type nonlinear contractions following Pant to a class of Suzuki–Ćirić-type nonlinear contractions via comparison functions via a locally

ζ

-transitive relation and implemented the same to ascertain certain fixed-point results. The outcomes presented herewith unify and generalize a few existing findings. An illustrative examples is offered to explain our findings. Our outcomes assist us in figuring out the unique solution to a boundary value problem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fixed Point, Optimization, and Applications II)

15 pages, 2878 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Storing Electric Energy Generated by a Photovoltaic Installation to Increase Profit from Its Sale—Case Study in Poland

by Marcin Michalski, Jakub Polański and Magdalena Nemś

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5635; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135635 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Battery systems enable the sustainable use of energy from renewable energy installations that are characterized by variable time availability. The present study investigated the benefits of implementing an electrical energy storage system to a photovoltaic (PV) installation in the Polish climatic conditions. The [...] Read more.

Battery systems enable the sustainable use of energy from renewable energy installations that are characterized by variable time availability. The present study investigated the benefits of implementing an electrical energy storage system to a photovoltaic (PV) installation in the Polish climatic conditions. The impact of such a system on increasing profits from energy sales was verified. The use of storage allows for shifting the process of feeding energy into the grid to later hours when it is more expensive. The production volume and timing of energy generation were considered using the example of a 5 kWp research installation located in the Laboratory of Renewable Energy. The yields and energy prices were analyzed on an hourly basis for the year 2023. The considered system is additionally equipped with a battery with a capacity of 15 kWh. Analyses have shown that this system covers 55.6% of days in a year where the entire daily production from the PV installation can be stored. Additionally, the feasibility of using different energy storage capacities to shift the sale of the maximum energy volume was examined. Also the payback period of investments was considered for four scenarios (from the most expensive devices to the cheapest ones with subsidies). Prices were compared with profits resulting from the use of storage systems of a given capacity, as well as with the lengths of warranties covering the devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Storage and Integration of Renewable Energy Systems towards Energy Sustainability)

22 pages, 1738 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Graph Collaborative Filtering from the Perspective of User–Item Interaction Directly Using Contrastive Learning

by Jifeng Dong, Yu Zhou, Shufeng Hao, Ding Feng, Haixia Zheng and Zhenhuan Xu

Mathematics 2024, 12(13), 2057; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12132057 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Graph contrastive learning has demonstrated significant superiority for collaborative filtering. These methods typically use augmentation technology to generate contrastive views, and then train graph neural networks with contrastive learning as an auxiliary task. Although these methods are very effective, they do not consider [...] Read more.

Graph contrastive learning has demonstrated significant superiority for collaborative filtering. These methods typically use augmentation technology to generate contrastive views, and then train graph neural networks with contrastive learning as an auxiliary task. Although these methods are very effective, they do not consider using contrastive learning from the perspective of user–item interaction. As a result, they do not fully leverage the potential of contrastive learning. It is well known that contrastive learning can maximize the consistency of positive pairs and minimize the agreement of negative pairs. Collaborative filtering expects high consistency between users and the items they like and low consistency between users and the items they dislike. If we treat the items that users like as positive examples and the items they dislike as negative examples, contrastive learning can work very well with the goal of collaborative filtering. Based on the above understanding, we propose a new objective function called DCL loss, which improves graph collaborative filtering from the perspective of user–item interaction when Directly using Contrastive Learning. Extensive experiments have shown that when a model adopts DCL loss as its objective function, both its recommendation performance and training efficiency exhibit significant improvements. Full article

24 pages, 1324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dual-Objective Reinforcement Learning-Based Adaptive Traffic Signal Control for Decarbonization and Efficiency Optimization

by Gongquan Zhang, Fangrong Chang, Helai Huang and Zilong Zhou

Mathematics 2024, 12(13), 2056; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12132056 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

To improve traffic efficiency, adaptive traffic signal control (ATSC) systems have been widely developed. However, few studies have proactively optimized the air environmental issues in the development of ATSC. To fill this research gap, this study proposes an optimized ATSC algorithm to take [...] Read more.

To improve traffic efficiency, adaptive traffic signal control (ATSC) systems have been widely developed. However, few studies have proactively optimized the air environmental issues in the development of ATSC. To fill this research gap, this study proposes an optimized ATSC algorithm to take into consideration both traffic efficiency and decarbonization. The proposed algorithm is developed based on the deep reinforcement learning (DRL) framework with dual goals (DRL-DG) for traffic control system optimization. A novel network structure combining Convolutional Neural Networks and Long Short-Term Memory Networks is designed to map the intersection traffic state to a Q-value, accelerating the learning process. The reward mechanism involves a multi-objective optimization function, employing the entropy weight method to balance the weights among dual goals. Based on a representative intersection in Changsha, Hunan Province, China, a simulated intersection scenario is constructed to train and test the proposed algorithm. The result shows that the ATSC system optimized by the proposed DRL-DG results in a reduction of more than 71% in vehicle waiting time and 46% in carbon emissions compared to traditional traffic signal control systems. It converges faster and achieves a balanced dual-objective optimization compared to the prevailing DRL-based ATSC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Perception, Control and Optimization Methods in Intelligent Transportation Systems)

18 pages, 311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emergency Department Use among Patients with Mental Health Problems: Profiles, Correlates, and Outcomes

by Marie-Josée Fleury, Zhirong Cao and Guy Grenier

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(7), 864; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21070864 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Patients with mental health (MH) problems are known to use emergency departments (EDs) frequently. This study identified profiles of ED users and associated these profiles with patient characteristics and outpatient service use, and with subsequent adverse outcomes. A 5-year cohort of 11,682 ED [...] Read more.

Patients with mental health (MH) problems are known to use emergency departments (EDs) frequently. This study identified profiles of ED users and associated these profiles with patient characteristics and outpatient service use, and with subsequent adverse outcomes. A 5-year cohort of 11,682 ED users was investigated (2012–2017), using Quebec (Canada) administrative databases. ED user profiles were identified through latent class analysis, and multinomial logistic regression used to associate patients’ characteristics and their outpatient service use. Cox regressions were conducted to assess adverse outcomes 12 months after the last ED use. Four ED user profiles were identified: “Patients mostly using EDs for accessing MH services” (Profile 1, incident MDs); “Repeat ED users” (Profile 2); “High ED users” (Profile 3); “Very high and recurrent high ED users” (Profile 4). Profile 4 and 3 patients exhibited the highest ED use along with severe conditions yet received the most outpatient care. The risk of hospitalization and death was higher in these profiles. Their frequent ED use and adverse outcomes might stem from unmet needs and suboptimal care. Assertive community treatments and intensive case management could be recommended for Profiles 4 and 3, and more extensive team-based GP care for Profiles 2 and 1. Full article

13 pages, 2502 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cs-Doped WO₃ with Enhanced Conduction Band for Efficient Photocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction Driven by Long-Wavelength Visible Light

by Dong Li, Siyu Tian, Qiuhua Qian, Caiyun Gao, Hongfang Shen and Fei Han

Molecules 2024, 29(13), 3126; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29133126 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Cesium doped WO₃ (Cs-WO₃) photocatalyst with high and stable oxidation activity was successfully synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method using Cs₂CO₃ as the doped metal ion source and tungstic acid (H₂WO₄) as the [...] Read more.

Cesium doped WO₃ (Cs-WO₃) photocatalyst with high and stable oxidation activity was successfully synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method using Cs₂CO₃ as the doped metal ion source and tungstic acid (H₂WO₄) as the tungsten source. A series of analytical characterization tools and oxygen precipitation activity tests were used to compare the effects of different additions of Cs₂CO₃ on the crystal structure and microscopic morphologies. The UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) of Cs-doped material exhibited a significant red shift in the absorption edge with new shoulders appearing at 440–520 nm. The formation of an oxygen vacancy was confirmed in Cs-WO₃ by the EPR signal, which can effectively regulate the electronic structure of the catalyst surface and contribute to improving the activity of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The photocatalytic OER results showed that the Cs-WO₃-0.1 exhibited the optimal oxygen precipitation activity, reaching 58.28 µmol at 6 h, which was greater than six times higher than that of WO₃-0 (9.76 μmol). It can be attributed to the synergistic effect of the increase in the conduction band position of Cs-WO_3-0.1 (0.11 V) and oxygen vacancies compared to WO₃-0, which accelerate the electron conduction rate and slow down the rapid compounding of photogenerated electrons–holes, improving the water-catalytic oxygen precipitation activity of WO₃. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Research on Photosensitive Materials)

10 pages, 585 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Flagellin Restricts HIV-1 Infection of Macrophages through Modulation of Viral Entry Receptors and CC Chemokines

by Lina Zhou, Xu Wang, Qianhao Xiao, Shazheb Khan and Wen-Zhe Ho

Viruses 2024, 16(7), 1063; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16071063 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Both bacteria product flagellin and macrophages are implicated in HIV-1 infection/disease progression. However, the impact of their interaction on HIV-1 infection and the associated mechanisms remain to be determined. We thus examined the effect of the flagellins on HIV-1 infection of primary human [...] Read more.

Both bacteria product flagellin and macrophages are implicated in HIV-1 infection/disease progression. However, the impact of their interaction on HIV-1 infection and the associated mechanisms remain to be determined. We thus examined the effect of the flagellins on HIV-1 infection of primary human macrophages. We observed that the pretreatment of macrophages with the flagellins from the different bacteria significantly inhibited HIV-1 infection. The mechanistic investigation showed that the flagellin treatment of macrophages downregulated the major HIV-1 entry receptors (CD4 and CCR5) and upregulated the CC chemokines (MIP-1α, MIP-1β and RANTES), the ligands of CCR5. These effects of the flagellin could be compromised by a toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) antagonist. Given the important role of flagellin as a vaccine adjuvant in TLR5 activation-mediated immune regulation and in HIV-1 infection of macrophages, future investigations are necessary to determine the in vivo impact of flagellin–TLR5 interaction on macrophage-mediated innate immunity against HIV-1 infection and the effectiveness of flagellin adjuvant-based vaccines studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Roles of Macrophages in Viral Infections)

11 pages, 1691 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Information Entropy Analysis of a PIV Image Based on Wavelet Decomposition and Reconstruction

by Zhiwu Ke, Wei Zheng, Xiaoyu Wang and Mei Lin

Entropy 2024, 26(7), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26070573 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

In particle image velocimetry (PIV) experiments, background noise inevitably exists in the particle images when a particle image is being captured or transmitted, which blurs the particle image, reduces the information entropy of the image, and finally makes the obtained flow field inaccurate. [...] Read more.

In particle image velocimetry (PIV) experiments, background noise inevitably exists in the particle images when a particle image is being captured or transmitted, which blurs the particle image, reduces the information entropy of the image, and finally makes the obtained flow field inaccurate. Taking a low-quality original particle image as the research object in this research, a frequency domain processing method based on wavelet decomposition and reconstruction was applied to perform particle image pre-processing. Information entropy analysis was used to evaluate the effect of image processing. The results showed that useful high-frequency particle information representing particle image details in the original particle image was effectively extracted and enhanced, and the image background noise was significantly weakened. Then, information entropy analysis of the image revealed that compared with the unprocessed original particle image, the reconstructed particle image contained more effective details of the particles with higher information entropy. Based on reconstructed particle images, a more accurate flow field can be obtained within a lower error range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Multidisciplinary Applications)

23 pages, 3060 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Streamlining Skin Regeneration: A Ready-to-Use Silk Bilayer Wound Dressing

by Anabela Veiga, Inês V. Silva, Juliana R. Dias, Nuno M. Alves, Ana L. Oliveira and Viviana P. Ribeiro

Gels 2024, 10(7), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10070439 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Silk proteins have been highlighted in the past decade for tissue engineering (TE) and skin regeneration due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and exceptional mechanical properties. While silk fibroin (SF) has high structural and mechanical stability with high potential as an external protective layer, [...] Read more.

Silk proteins have been highlighted in the past decade for tissue engineering (TE) and skin regeneration due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and exceptional mechanical properties. While silk fibroin (SF) has high structural and mechanical stability with high potential as an external protective layer, traditionally discarded sericin (SS) has shown great potential as a natural-based hydrogel, promoting cell–cell interactions, making it an ideal material for direct wound contact. In this context, the present study proposes a new wound dressing approach by developing an SS/SF bilayer construct for full-thickness exudative wounds. The processing methodology implemented included an innovation element and the cryopreservation of the SS intrinsic secondary structure, followed by rehydration to produce a hydrogel layer, which was integrated with a salt-leached SF scaffold to produce a bilayer structure. In addition, a sterilization protocol was developed using supercritical technology (sCO₂) to allow an industrial scale-up. The resulting bilayer material presented high porosity (>85%) and interconnectivity while promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, and infiltration of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). SS and SF exhibit distinct secondary structures, pore sizes, and swelling properties, opening new possibilities for dual-phased systems that accommodate the different needs of a wound during the healing process. The innovative SS hydrogel layer highlights the transformative potential of the proposed bilayer system for biomedical therapeutics and TE, offering insights into novel wound dressing fabrication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Therapeutics)

30 pages, 1811 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Microfluidic Systems and Numerical Modeling in Biomedical Applications: A Review

by Mariana Ferreira, Violeta Carvalho, João Ribeiro, Rui A. Lima, Senhorinha Teixeira and Diana Pinho

Micromachines 2024, 15(7), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15070873 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

The evolution in the biomedical engineering field boosts innovative technologies, with microfluidic systems standing out as transformative tools in disease diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. Numerical simulation has emerged as a tool of increasing importance for better understanding and predicting fluid-flow behavior in microscale [...] Read more.

The evolution in the biomedical engineering field boosts innovative technologies, with microfluidic systems standing out as transformative tools in disease diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. Numerical simulation has emerged as a tool of increasing importance for better understanding and predicting fluid-flow behavior in microscale devices. This review explores fabrication techniques and common materials of microfluidic devices, focusing on soft lithography and additive manufacturing. Microfluidic systems applications, including nucleic acid amplification and protein synthesis, as well as point-of-care diagnostics, DNA analysis, cell cultures, and organ-on-a-chip models (e.g., lung-, brain-, liver-, and tumor-on-a-chip), are discussed. Recent studies have applied computational tools such as ANSYS Fluent software to numerically simulate the flow behavior. Outside of the study cases, this work reports fundamental aspects of microfluidic simulations, including fluid flow, mass transport, mixing, and diffusion, and highlights the emergent field of organ-on-a-chip simulations. Additionally, it takes into account the application of geometries to improve the mixing of samples, as well as surface wettability modification. In conclusion, the present review summarizes the most relevant contributions of microfluidic systems and their numerical modeling to biomedical engineering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro/Nanofluidic and Lab-on-a-Chip Devices for Biomedical Applications, 2nd Edition)

14 pages, 1148 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Batch-to-Batch Variation in Laser-Inscribed Graphene (LIG) Electrodes for Electrochemical Sensing

by Yifan Tang, Geisianny A. Moreira, Diana Vanegas, Shoumen P. A. Datta and Eric S. McLamore

Micromachines 2024, 15(7), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15070874 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Laser-inscribed graphene (LIG) is an emerging material for micro-electronic applications and is being used to develop supercapacitors, soft actuators, triboelectric generators, and sensors. The fabrication technique is simple, yet the batch-to-batch variation of LIG quality is not well documented in the literature. In [...] Read more.

Laser-inscribed graphene (LIG) is an emerging material for micro-electronic applications and is being used to develop supercapacitors, soft actuators, triboelectric generators, and sensors. The fabrication technique is simple, yet the batch-to-batch variation of LIG quality is not well documented in the literature. In this study, we conduct experiments to characterize batch-to-batch variation in the manufacturing of LIG electrodes for applications in electrochemical sensing. Numerous batches of 36 LIG electrodes were synthesized using a CO₂ laser system on polyimide film. The LIG material was characterized using goniometry, stereomicroscopy, open circuit potentiometry, and cyclic voltammetry. Hydrophobicity and electrochemical screening (cyclic voltammetry) indicate that LIG electrode batch-to-batch variation is less than 5% when using a commercial reference and counter electrode. Metallization of LIG led to a significant increase in peak current and specific capacitance (area between anodic/cathodic curve). However, batch-to-batch variation increased to approximately 30%. Two different platinum electrodeposition techniques were studied, including galvanostatic and frequency-modulated electrodeposition. The study shows that formation of metallized LIG electrodes with high specific capacitance and peak current may come at the expense of high batch variability. This design tradeoff has not been discussed in the literature and is an important consideration if scaling sensor designs for mass use is desired. This study provides important insight into the variation of LIG material properties for scalable development of LIG sensors. Additional studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanism(s) of this variability so that strategies to improve the repeatability may be developed for improving quality control. The dataset from this study is available via an open access repository. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro and Nanosensors: Fabrication, Applications and Performance Enhancements)

20 pages, 3405 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Nb and B on the Precipitation Behaviors in Al-Ti-Nb Balanced-Ratio Ni-Based Superalloy: A Phase-Field Study

by Na Ta, Hongguang Zhou, Cong Zhang, Ruijie Zhang and Lijun Zhang

Crystals 2024, 14(7), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14070614 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

In this paper, quantitative two-dimensional (2-D) phase-field simulations were performed to gain insight into the effects of B and Nb for Al-Ti-Nb balanced-ratio GH4742 alloys. The microstructure evolution during the precipitation process was simulated using the MICRESS (MICRostructure Evolution Simulation Software) package developed [...] Read more.

In this paper, quantitative two-dimensional (2-D) phase-field simulations were performed to gain insight into the effects of B and Nb for Al-Ti-Nb balanced-ratio GH4742 alloys. The microstructure evolution during the precipitation process was simulated using the MICRESS (MICRostructure Evolution Simulation Software) package developed in the formalism of the multi-phase field model. The coupling to CALPHAD (CALculation of PHAse Diagram) thermodynamic databases was realized via the TQ interface. The morphological evolution, concentration distribution, and thermodynamic properties were extensively analyzed. It is indicated that a higher Nb content contributes to a faster precipitation rate and higher amounts and the smaller precipitate size of the γ′ phase, contributing to better mechanical properties. The segregation of the W element in γ′ precipitate due to its sluggish diffusion effect has also been observed. Higher temperatures and lower B contents accelerate the dissolution of boride and reduce the precipitation of borides. With the increased addition of B, the formation of borides may have a pinning effect on the grain boundary to hinder the kinetic process. In addition, borides are prone to precipitate around the interface rather than in the bulk phase. Once the M₃B₂ borides nucleate, they grow in the consumption of γ′ phases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microstructure and Properties of Metals and Alloys)

38 pages, 3352 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Machine-Learning-Driven Pathophysiology-Based New Approach Method for the Dose-Dependent Assessment of Hazardous Chemical Mixtures and Experimental Validations

by Sarita Limbu, Eric Glasgow, Tessa Block and Sivanesan Dakshanamurthy

Toxics 2024, 12(7), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12070481 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Environmental chemicals, such as PFAS, exist as mixtures and are frequently encountered at varying concentrations, which can lead to serious health effects, such as cancer. Therefore, understanding the dose-dependent toxicity of chemical mixtures is essential for health risk assessment. However, comprehensive methods to [...] Read more.

Environmental chemicals, such as PFAS, exist as mixtures and are frequently encountered at varying concentrations, which can lead to serious health effects, such as cancer. Therefore, understanding the dose-dependent toxicity of chemical mixtures is essential for health risk assessment. However, comprehensive methods to assess toxicity and identify the mechanisms of these harmful mixtures are currently absent. In this study, the dose-dependent toxicity assessments of chemical mixtures are performed in three methodologically distinct phases. In the first phase, we evaluated our machine-learning method (AI-HNN) and pathophysiology method (CPTM) for predicting toxicity. In the second phase, we integrated AI-HNN and CPTM to establish a comprehensive new approach method (NAM) framework called AI-CPTM that is targeted at refining prediction accuracy and providing a comprehensive understanding of toxicity mechanisms. The third phase involved experimental validations of the AI-CPTM predictions. Initially, we developed binary, multiclass classification, and regression models to predict binary, categorical toxicity, and toxic potencies using nearly a thousand experimental mixtures. This empirical dataset was expanded with assumption-based virtual mixtures, compensating for the lack of experimental data and broadening the scope of the dataset. For comparison, we also developed machine-learning models based on RF, Bagging, AdaBoost, SVR, GB, KR, DT, KN, and Consensus methods. The AI-HNN achieved overall accuracies of over 80%, with the AUC exceeding 90%. In the final phase, we demonstrated the superior performance and predictive capability of AI-CPTM, including for PFAS mixtures and their interaction effects, through rigorous literature and statistical validations, along with experimental dose-response zebrafish-embryo toxicity assays. Overall, the AI-CPTM approach significantly improves upon the limitations of standalone AI models, showing extensive enhancements in identifying toxic chemicals and mixtures and their mechanisms. This study is the first to develop a hybrid NAM that integrates AI with a pathophysiology method to comprehensively predict chemical-mixture toxicity, carcinogenicity, and mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Novel Methods in Toxicology Research)

11 pages, 896 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rocket Dynamics of Capped Nanotubes: A Molecular Dynamics Study

by Mustafa S. Hamad, Matteo Morciano and Matteo Fasano

Nanomaterials 2024, 14(13), 1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14131134 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

The study of nanoparticle motion has fundamental relevance in a wide range of nanotechnology-based fields. Molecular dynamics simulations offer a powerful tool to elucidate the dynamics of complex systems and derive theoretical models that facilitate the invention and optimization of novel devices. This [...] Read more.

The study of nanoparticle motion has fundamental relevance in a wide range of nanotechnology-based fields. Molecular dynamics simulations offer a powerful tool to elucidate the dynamics of complex systems and derive theoretical models that facilitate the invention and optimization of novel devices. This research contributes to this ongoing effort by investigating the motion of one-end capped carbon nanotubes within an aqueous environment through extensive molecular dynamics simulations. By exposing the carbon nanotubes to localized heating, propelled motion with velocities reaching up to ≈0.08 nm ps

^{- 1}

was observed. Through systematic exploration of various parameters such as temperature, nanotube diameter, and size, we were able to elucidate the underlying mechanisms driving propulsion. Our findings demonstrate that the propulsive motion predominantly arises from a rocket-like mechanism facilitated by the progressive evaporation of water molecules entrapped within the carbon nanotube. Therefore, this study focuses on the complex interplay between nanoscale geometry, environmental conditions, and propulsion mechanisms in capped nanotubes, providing relevant insights into the design and optimization of nanoscale propulsion systems with various applications in nanotechnology and beyond. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling and Mechanical Behaviour of Nanostructured Materials)

3 pages, 219 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Inducing Toxicity in the Neurological System by Environmental Pollutants

by Irene Camacho, Isabel Fragoeiro and Daniel Neto

Toxics 2024, 12(7), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12070480 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

There is a growing body of evidence that exposure to multiple air pollutants may cause dysfunction of the central nervous system (CNS) [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inducing-Toxicity in the Neurological System by Environmental Pollutants)

20 pages, 508 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Behavior of Correlation Functions in the Dynamics of the Multiparticle Quantum Arnol’d Cat

by Giorgio Mantica

Entropy 2024, 26(7), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26070572 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

The multi-particle Arnol’d cat is a generalization of the Hamiltonian system, both classical and quantum, whose period evolution operator is the renowned map that bears its name. It is obtained following the Joos–Zeh prescription for decoherence by adding a number of scattering particles [...] Read more.

The multi-particle Arnol’d cat is a generalization of the Hamiltonian system, both classical and quantum, whose period evolution operator is the renowned map that bears its name. It is obtained following the Joos–Zeh prescription for decoherence by adding a number of scattering particles in the configuration space of the cat. Quantization follows swiftly if the Hamiltonian approach, rather than the semiclassical approach, is adopted. The author has studied this system in a series of previous works, focusing on the problem of quantum–classical correspondence. In this paper, the dynamics of this system are tested by two related yet different indicators: the time autocorrelation function of the canonical position and the out-of-time correlator of position and momentum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Statistical Physics)

8 pages, 2337 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

A 3.2 kW Single Stage Narrow Linewidth Fiber Amplifier Emitting at 1050 nm

by Xiaoxi Liu, Xin Tian, Binyu Rao, Baolai Yang, Xiaoming Xi and Zefeng Wang

Micromachines 2024, 15(7), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15070871 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we have demonstrated a narrow linewidth high power fiber laser emitting at a short wavelength of ~1050 nm. The fiber laser is based on a structure of master oscillator power amplification (MOPA) with an optimized fiber Bragg-grating-based laser cavity as [...] Read more.

In this paper, we have demonstrated a narrow linewidth high power fiber laser emitting at a short wavelength of ~1050 nm. The fiber laser is based on a structure of master oscillator power amplification (MOPA) with an optimized fiber Bragg-grating-based laser cavity as the seed. Both stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) effects have been effectively suppressed by using a long passive fiber between the seed and the amplifier. Based on the fiber amplifier, we have ultimately boosted the narrow linewidth laser from ~40 W to 3.2 kW with a slope efficiency of 85.1% and a 3-dB linewidth of ~0.1 nm. The SRS suppression ratio of the laser is ~29.7 dB at maximum power. Due to our fiber mode control strategies, the beam quality always stays near-diffraction-limited while amplifying, and the measured M² factor is ~1.4 at the maximum power. Further increase in output power is limited by the SBS effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical and Laser Material Processing)

18 pages, 536 KiB

Open AccessReview

Genomic and Epigenomic Biomarkers of Immune Checkpoint Immunotherapy Response in Melanoma: Current and Future Perspectives

by Sultana Mehbuba Hossain, Carien Carpenter and Michael R. Eccles

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(13), 7252; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25137252 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) demonstrate durable responses, long-term survival benefits, and improved outcomes in cancer patients compared to chemotherapy. However, the majority of cancer patients do not respond to ICIs, and a high proportion of those patients who do respond to ICI therapy [...] Read more.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) demonstrate durable responses, long-term survival benefits, and improved outcomes in cancer patients compared to chemotherapy. However, the majority of cancer patients do not respond to ICIs, and a high proportion of those patients who do respond to ICI therapy develop innate or acquired resistance to ICIs, limiting their clinical utility. The most studied predictive tissue biomarkers for ICI response are PD-L1 immunohistochemical expression, DNA mismatch repair deficiency, and tumour mutation burden, although these are weak predictors of ICI response. The identification of better predictive biomarkers remains an important goal to improve the identification of patients who would benefit from ICIs. Here, we review established and emerging biomarkers of ICI response, focusing on epigenomic and genomic alterations in cancer patients, which have the potential to help guide single-agent ICI immunotherapy or ICI immunotherapy in combination with other ICI immunotherapies or agents. We briefly review the current status of ICI response biomarkers, including investigational biomarkers, and we present insights into several emerging and promising epigenomic biomarker candidates, including current knowledge gaps in the context of ICI immunotherapy response in melanoma patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Melanoma: From Molecular Pathology to Therapeutic Approaches)

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