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19 pages, 37213 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monocular Depth Estimation Based on Dilated Convolutions and Feature Fusion

by Hang Li, Shuai Liu, Bin Wang and Yuanhao Wu

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5833; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135833 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Depth estimation represents a prevalent research focus within the realm of computer vision. Existing depth estimation methodologies utilizing LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology typically obtain sparse depth data and are associated with elevated hardware expenses. Multi-view image-matching techniques necessitate prior knowledge of [...] Read more.

Depth estimation represents a prevalent research focus within the realm of computer vision. Existing depth estimation methodologies utilizing LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology typically obtain sparse depth data and are associated with elevated hardware expenses. Multi-view image-matching techniques necessitate prior knowledge of camera intrinsic parameters and frequently encounter challenges such as depth inconsistency, loss of details, and the blurring of edges. To tackle these challenges, the present study introduces a monocular depth estimation approach based on an end-to-end convolutional neural network. Specifically, a DNET backbone has been developed, incorporating dilated convolution and feature fusion mechanisms within the network architecture. By integrating semantic information from various receptive fields and levels, the model’s capacity for feature extraction is augmented, thereby enhancing its sensitivity to nuanced depth variations within the image. Furthermore, we introduce a loss function optimization algorithm specifically designed to address class imbalance, thereby enhancing the overall predictive accuracy of the model. Training and validation conducted on the NYU Depth-v2 (New York University Depth Dataset Version 2) and KITTI (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and Toyota Technological Institute) datasets demonstrate that our approach outperforms other algorithms in terms of various evaluation metrics. Full article

16 pages, 885 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of a Mechanism Used to Operate an Oscillating Separator

by Emilian Mosnegutu, Luminița Bibire, Dana Chitimuș, Mirela Panainte-Lehăduș, Marcin Jasiński, Grzegorz Przydatek and Nicoleta Sporea

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5836; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135836 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

This article presents a comparative study of two different kinds of processes that produce oscillatory motion on a work surface during the mechanical separation process. The investigation began with determining the trajectory produced by the oscillating separator’s active component of the classical drive [...] Read more.

This article presents a comparative study of two different kinds of processes that produce oscillatory motion on a work surface during the mechanical separation process. The investigation began with determining the trajectory produced by the oscillating separator’s active component of the classical drive mechanism. Based on this, a second mechanism—the six-bar mechanism—was created using the WATT program, and a mathematical analysis was conducted. The comparative examination of the two mechanisms was carried out using OriginPro, Mathcad, and Roberts software. This study’s findings all point to the same conclusion: the newly developed mechanism produces the same trajectory as the classical mechanism when viewed through the lens of the reference element, or the element that causes the oscillatory movement. However, when looking at the operating parameters, there was a noticeable difference in the movement’s speed and the angle of the crank when producing its maximum speed. Theoretically, this new mechanism increases the speed at which solid particles move across a work surface. However, this difference cannot be characterized as positive or negative because further research is required to determine how the nature of solid particles and the work surface’s inclination affect this process, in addition to this mechanism. The identification of the mathematical equations of motion for the constituent parts of the mechanism under study is the novelty produced of this paper. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Mechanics: Theory, Method and Applications)

14 pages, 3025 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Metformin Lowers Plasma Triacylglycerol Levels in Mice with Impaired Carnitine Biosynthesis and Fatty Liver

by Bodil Bjørndal, Tra-My Thi Le, Elin Strand, Lise Madsen and Rolf K. Berge

SynBio 2024, 2(3), 240-253; https://doi.org/10.3390/synbio2030014 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

The antidiabetic drug metformin has a wide range of metabolic effects and may also reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases. The aim of the current study was to investigate if metformin could counteract meldonium-induced fatty liver. Four groups of male C57BL/6J mice were [...] Read more.

The antidiabetic drug metformin has a wide range of metabolic effects and may also reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases. The aim of the current study was to investigate if metformin could counteract meldonium-induced fatty liver. Four groups of male C57BL/6J mice were fed a low-fat control diet, or low-fat diets supplemented with metformin, meldonium, or metformin and meldonium for three weeks. Meldonium treatment led to 5.2-fold higher hepatic triacylglycerol (TAG) levels compared to control, and metformin lowered the meldonium-induced lipid accumulation insignificantly by 21%. Mice treated with metformin and meldonium demonstrated significantly lower weight gain, visceral adipose tissue weight and plasma levels of TAG compared to meldonium alone. The hepatic mRNA level of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 was increased 2-fold with combined meldonium and metformin treatment compared to meldonium treatment (p < 0.001). Increased hepatic expression of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation and lipid transport was observed in the combination group compared to control, and increased gene expression of the mitochondrial uncoupling protein UCP2 was observed compared to the meldonium group. In addition, the product of fatty acid oxidation, acetylcarnitine, increased in plasma in metformin-treated mice. Altogether, metformin treatment influenced hepatic lipid metabolism and lowered plasma TAG in meldonium-induced fatty liver in mice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Paper Collection in Synthetic Biology)

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24 pages, 437 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Comparison between the Production of Edible Macroalgae Worldwide and in the Mediterranean Sea

by Gorana Jelić Mrčelić, Svjetlana Krstulović Šifner and Vedrana Nerlović

Oceans 2024, 5(3), 442-465; https://doi.org/10.3390/oceans5030026 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Macroalgae are beneficial for consumers and producers due to their high productivity, their chemical composition and their efficient cultivation without additional feed. Asia dominates global macroalgae production, while European production is still marginal and mainly based on wild harvesting in the North Atlantic. [...] Read more.

Macroalgae are beneficial for consumers and producers due to their high productivity, their chemical composition and their efficient cultivation without additional feed. Asia dominates global macroalgae production, while European production is still marginal and mainly based on wild harvesting in the North Atlantic. The European Commission has launched initiatives to promote the sustainable production, safe consumption and innovative use of macroalgae products in European regional seas, including the Mediterranean Sea. A variety of coastal and seabed types and a wide range of environmental conditions make the Mediterranean a hotspot of marine biodiversity while providing good conditions for the cultivation of macroalgae. The aim of this paper is to compare the global macroalgae production and macroalgae production in the Mediterranean Sea, focussing on the cultivation of edible macroalgae. The paper also discusses the limitations and possibilities of macroalgae production in the region. Macroalgae production is one of the most promising sectors of the blue economy in the Mediterranean. The production of edible macroalgae suitable for human consumption has great potential, considering future population growth and related food security and health issues, as well as the additional ecosystem benefits of macroalgae production. Full article

34 pages, 561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

On Superposition Lattice Codes for the K-User Gaussian Interference Channel

by María Constanza Estela and Claudio Valencia-Cordero

Entropy 2024, 26(7), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26070575 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

In this study, we work with lattice Gaussian coding for a K-user Gaussian interference channel. Following the procedure of Etkin et al., in which the capacity is found to be within 1 bit/s/Hz of the capacity of a two-user Gaussian interference channel [...] Read more.

In this study, we work with lattice Gaussian coding for a K-user Gaussian interference channel. Following the procedure of Etkin et al., in which the capacity is found to be within 1 bit/s/Hz of the capacity of a two-user Gaussian interference channel for each type of interference using random codes, we work with lattices to take advantage of their structure and potential for interference alignment. We mimic random codes using a Gaussian distribution over the lattice. Imposing constraints on the flatness factor of the lattices, the common and private message powers, and the channel coefficients, we find the conditions to obtain the same constant gap to the optimal rate for the two-user weak Gaussian interference channel and the generalized degrees of freedom as those obtained with random codes, as found by Etkin et al. Finally, we show how it is possible to extend these results to a K-user weak Gaussian interference channel using lattice alignment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Information Theory, Probability and Statistics)

18 pages, 484 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digitized Evaluation of Academic Opportunities to Learn (OTLs) Concerning Linguistically Responsive Teaching (LRT): Descriptive Results from Nine Universities

by Svenja Lemmrich, Sina Spiekermeier Gimenes and Timo Ehmke

Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14070729 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Teachers in Germany are not prepared to teach in a linguistically responsive way. To change that, multiple development and research projects in this area have been established over the past decade. Recent studies show that pre-service teachers still have few opportunities to learn [...] Read more.

Teachers in Germany are not prepared to teach in a linguistically responsive way. To change that, multiple development and research projects in this area have been established over the past decade. Recent studies show that pre-service teachers still have few opportunities to learn (OTLs) in the field of linguistically responsive teaching (LRT). This study aimed to transfer the theoretical model and the XXX test into pre-service teacher training and evaluate LRT-relevant OTLs at nine different universities across Germany with 1649 pre-service teachers. We focused on how LRT-relevant OTLs were perceived by pre-service teachers, how LRT-related OTLs and pre-service teachers’ academic backgrounds (course of studies and experience) were related, and how OTLs impacted LRT competence. This study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the teacher training and evaluations were conducted digitally. We found that pre-service teachers report a relatively low number of LRT-relevant OTLs in their studies. In particular, LRT-relevant activities have so far been taught very rarely at universities. Also, different emphases still prevail at universities regarding the qualitative and quantitative offer of LRT-relevant OTLs, because of differences among the nine participating universities. Based on these findings, we recommend that universities offer LRT-relevant learning opportunities in the curriculum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Teacher Education)

21 pages, 1068 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of the Black–Scholes Model for Determining Insurance Premiums to Mitigate the Risk of Disaster Losses Using the Principles of Mutual Cooperation and Regional Economic Growth

by Titi Purwandari, Yuyun Hidayat, Sukono, Kalfin, Riza Andrian Ibrahim and Subiyanto

Risks 2024, 12(7), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/risks12070110 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

The frequency and economic damage of natural disasters have increased globally over the last two decades due to climate change. This increase has an impact on the disaster insurance field, particularly in the calculation of premiums. Many regions have a shortcoming in employing [...] Read more.

The frequency and economic damage of natural disasters have increased globally over the last two decades due to climate change. This increase has an impact on the disaster insurance field, particularly in the calculation of premiums. Many regions have a shortcoming in employing insurance because the premium is too high compared with their budget allocation. As one of the solutions, the premium calculation can be developed by applying the cross-subsidies mechanism based on economic growth. Therefore, this research aims to develop premium models of natural disaster insurance that uniquely involve two new variables of an insured region: cross-subsidies and the economic growth rate. Another novelty is the development of the Black–Scholes model, considering the two new variables, and it is used to formulate the premium model. Following the modeling process, this study uses the model to estimate the premiums for natural disaster insurance in each province of Indonesia. The estimation results show that all new variables involved in the model novelties significantly affect the premiums. This research can be used by insurance companies to determine the premium of natural disaster insurance, which involves cross-subsidies and economic growth. Full article

12 pages, 1955 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Development of Novel Edible Films from Single-Cell Protein Produced by the Biotechnological Valorization of Cheese Whey

by Danai Ioanna Koukoumaki, Seraphim Papanikolaou, Zacharias Ioannou, Konstantinos Gkatzionis and Dimitris Sarris

Appl. Microbiol. 2024, 4(3), 1030-1041; https://doi.org/10.3390/applmicrobiol4030070 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

The production of value-added products from microorganisms, such as single-cell protein (SCP), through the valorization of agricultural byproducts enhances circular economy while offering alternative solutions for waste treatment. In this study, SCP was obtained through the biotechnological treatment and valorization of cheese whey, [...] Read more.

The production of value-added products from microorganisms, such as single-cell protein (SCP), through the valorization of agricultural byproducts enhances circular economy while offering alternative solutions for waste treatment. In this study, SCP was obtained through the biotechnological treatment and valorization of cheese whey, the main byproduct of the dairy industry, for the development of novel edible films. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report examining SCP as a biopolymer for edible film production. Specifically, Kluyveromyces marxianus, which has gained QPS and GRAS status, strain EXF-5288 cultivated in deproteinized cheese whey (DCW) lactose (10.0 g/L) in a 3 L fed-batch bioreactor, resulting in a SCP_max of 2.63 g/L with a protein content of up to 49.1% w/w. The addition of increased glycerol concentrations (30, 40, and 50% w/w of dry cells) as plasticizers was examined to develop SCP-based edible films. Regarding physicochemical characterization, increased glycerol concentration significantly increased moisture content (MC%) and solubility (S%), but there was not a significant difference in other parameters. Regarding wettability, SCP-based films could be described as oleophilic surfaces since the degree of oil contact angle (OCA) ranged between 46.7° ± 1.3 and 54.0° ± 0.5. The proposed holistic approach could contribute to the development of sustainable packaging materials through waste treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers Collection of Editorial Board Members and Invited Scholars in Applied Microbiology (2023, 2024))

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11 pages, 656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Evolution of Genetic Variability at the LRRK2 Locus

by Dylan T. Guenther, Jordan Follett, Rim Amouri, Samia Ben Sassi, Faycel Hentati and Matthew J. Farrer

Genes 2024, 15(7), 878; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15070878 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) c.6055G>A (p.G2019S) is a frequent cause of Parkinson’s disease (PD), accounting for >30% of Tunisian Arab-Berber patients. LRRK2 is widely expressed in the immune system and its kinase activity confers a survival advantage against infection in [...] Read more.

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) c.6055G>A (p.G2019S) is a frequent cause of Parkinson’s disease (PD), accounting for >30% of Tunisian Arab-Berber patients. LRRK2 is widely expressed in the immune system and its kinase activity confers a survival advantage against infection in animal models. Here, we assess haplotype variability in cis and in trans of the LRRK2 c.6055G>A mutation, define the age of the pathogenic allele, explore its relationship to the age of disease onset (AOO), and provide evidence for its positive selection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genes & Environments)

33 pages, 533 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Would Managers Sacrifice Conservative Financial Reporting to Meet/Beat Market Earnings Expectations?

by Anthony C. Ng, Hua Christine Xin and Bikki Jaggi

J. Risk Financial Manag. 2024, 17(7), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17070280 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Prior studies show that engaging in conservative financial reporting (CON) positively affects earnings quality. However, managers also manage earnings to meet/beat market earnings expectations (MBME). This study asks three questions regarding the earnings that MBME. First, it investigates whether managers are willing to [...] Read more.

Prior studies show that engaging in conservative financial reporting (CON) positively affects earnings quality. However, managers also manage earnings to meet/beat market earnings expectations (MBME). This study asks three questions regarding the earnings that MBME. First, it investigates whether managers are willing to sacrifice CON when adopting strategies to MBME. Second, it tests whether managers prefer to use other earnings management (EM) strategies to MBME instead of sacrificing CON. Third, it tests whether information asymmetry between managers and shareholders affects managers’ decisions to sacrifice CON. Results show that managers are more likely to sacrifice CON to MBME but are less likely to do so if they can manage earnings using accrual-based or real EM. Also, managers are more likely to do so when information asymmetry with shareholders is higher. These findings contribute to the literature by examining the circumstances in which managers would sacrifice CON to MBME. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Financial Reporting and Auditing)

26 pages, 8010 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Joint Motion Compensation algorithm for ISAR Imaging Based on Entropy Minimization

by Jishun Li, Yasheng Zhang, Canbin Yin, Can Xu, Pengju Li and Jun He

Sensors 2024, 24(13), 4332; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24134332 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Space targets move in orbit at a very high speed, so in order to obtain high-quality imaging, high-speed motion compensation (HSMC) and translational motion compensation (TMC) are required. HSMC and TMC are usually adjacent, and the residual error of HSMC will reduce the [...] Read more.

Space targets move in orbit at a very high speed, so in order to obtain high-quality imaging, high-speed motion compensation (HSMC) and translational motion compensation (TMC) are required. HSMC and TMC are usually adjacent, and the residual error of HSMC will reduce the accuracy of TMC. At the same time, under the condition of low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the accuracy of HSMC and TMC will also decrease, which brings challenges to high-quality ISAR imaging. Therefore, this paper proposes a joint ISAR motion compensation algorithm based on entropy minimization under low-SNR conditions. Firstly, the motion of the space target is analyzed, and the echo signal model is obtained. Then, the motion of the space target is modeled as a high-order polynomial, and a parameterized joint compensation model of high-speed motion and translational motion is established. Finally, taking the image entropy after joint motion compensation as the objective function, the red-tailed hawk–Nelder–Mead (RTH-NM) algorithm is used to estimate the target motion parameters, and the joint compensation is carried out. The experimental results of simulation data and real data verify the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed algorithm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensing and Imaging)

20 pages, 7472 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ALdamage-seg: A Lightweight Model for Instance Segmentation of Aluminum Profiles

by Wenxuan Zhu, Bochao Su, Xinhe Zhang, Ly Li and Siwen Fang

Buildings 2024, 14(7), 2036; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14072036 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Aluminum profiles are widely used in various manufacturing sectors due to their flexibility and chemical properties. However, these profiles are susceptible to defects during manufacturing and transportation. Detecting these defects is crucial, but existing object detection models like Mask R-CNN and YOLOv8-seg are [...] Read more.

Aluminum profiles are widely used in various manufacturing sectors due to their flexibility and chemical properties. However, these profiles are susceptible to defects during manufacturing and transportation. Detecting these defects is crucial, but existing object detection models like Mask R-CNN and YOLOv8-seg are not optimized for this task. These models are large and computationally intensive, making them unsuitable for edge devices used in industrial inspections. To address this issue, this study proposes a novel lightweight instance segmentation model called AL-damage-seg, inspired by the YOLOv8n-seg architecture. This model utilizes MobileNetV3 as the backbone. In YOLOv8n-seg, the role of C2f is to enhance the nonlinear representation of the model to capture complex image features more efficiently. We upgraded and improved it to form multilayer feature extraction module (MFEM) and integrates a large separable kernel attention (LSKA) mechanism in the C2f module, resulting in C2f_LSKA, to further optimize the performance of the model. Additionally, depth-wise separable convolutions are employed in the feature fusion process. The ALdamage-seg’s weight on the Alibaba Tian-chi aluminum profile dataset constitutes 43.9% of that of YOLOv8n-seg, with its GFLOPs reduced to 53% relative to YOLOv8-seg, all the while achieving an average precision (

m A P

) of 99% relative to YOLOv8-seg. With its compact size and lower computational requirements, this model is well-suited for deployment on edge devices with limited processing capabilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Study of Material Technology in Structural Engineering)

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16 pages, 689 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Priority Issues among a Sample of Adults from Minority Ethnic Communities Who Are Living with Visual Impairment in the UK

by Nikki Heinze, Lee Jones, Claire L. Castle and Renata S. M. Gomes

Disabilities 2024, 4(3), 477-492; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities4030030 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Background: Despite an increased risk of visual impairment (V.I.) among adults from minority ethnic communities in the UK, limited research has explored their wider life experiences. Methods: A secondary analysis of V.I. Lives survey data explored priority issues among a sample [...] Read more.

Background: Despite an increased risk of visual impairment (V.I.) among adults from minority ethnic communities in the UK, limited research has explored their wider life experiences. Methods: A secondary analysis of V.I. Lives survey data explored priority issues among a sample of 46 Asian, 22 Black, and 77 White adults who have visual impairment A list of 24 issues were grouped into 10 life domains. Issue and domain mean importance scores were calculated for each to facilitate ranking of importance. Results: Kruskal–Wallis tests showed that there were statistically significant differences between the three groups for 7/10 domains and 19/24 issues. Post hoc comparisons showed that this largely reflected group differences between Asian and White participants. While there were no statistically significant differences between Asian and Black participants possibly due to small sample sizes, there were statistically significant differences between Asian and White participants in 7/10 domains and 14/24 issues. Additionally, there were significant differences between Black and White participants in 5/10 domains and 7/24 issues, specialist workplace equipment being the only issue with a significant difference between White and Black but not Asian participants. There were no group differences for confidence in ability to do everyday tasks and opportunities to take part in more sporting and leisure activities. Overall, White participants generally rated all issues as less important than Asian and Black participants. The top-three domains for Asian participants were ‘accessible environments’/‘finances’, ‘technology’, and ‘public attitudes’. The top-three issues were accessibility of public transport, employer attitudes, and reduction of street clutter. The top-three domains among Black participants were ‘employment’, ‘accessible environments’, and ‘emotional support’. The top-three issues were employer attitudes/specialised education for young people with V.I., specialist V.I. equipment in the workplace, and confidence in ability to do everyday tasks/accessibility of public transport. Conclusions: Differences in priorities between the groups suggest that the needs of individual communities may be lost when grouping culturally diverse communities together, highlighting the need for more research with different minority ethnic communities. Full article

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13 pages, 832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Impact of American Chestnut Hybrid Restoration on Invertebrate Communities Above- and Belowground

by Jaq Reed, Evan Hausler, Abigail Levinson, Jonathan Horton, Denis S. Willett and Camila C. Filgueiras

Forests 2024, 15(7), 1159; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15071159 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

The cross-hybridization of American chestnut (Castanea dentata(Marsh.) Borkh.) with Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissimaBl.) is a promising strategy for restoring a blight-resistant strain of this keystone species to the Appalachian mountains. To assess the ecological impacts of hybridization on invertebrate [...] Read more.

The cross-hybridization of American chestnut (Castanea dentata(Marsh.) Borkh.) with Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissimaBl.) is a promising strategy for restoring a blight-resistant strain of this keystone species to the Appalachian mountains. To assess the ecological impacts of hybridization on invertebrate communities, we conducted a study across chestnut plots with varying degrees of hybridization (75%, 94%, or 100% American chestnut). Our findings indicate American chestnut hybridization impacted invertebrate communities above- and belowground. Aboveground insect community composition, insect herbivory, gall infestation, and belowground invertebrate diversity were all altered. While some of these differences could be explained by different growth habits or environmental differences, stark differences in Asian chestnut gall wasp infestation (Dryocosmus kuriphilus Yasumatsu.) suggest a genetic component. These results suggest that chestnut hybridization, and particularly expanded restoration efforts using chestnut hybrids, could impact invertebrate communities above- and belowground in addition to pest dynamics. Understanding these effects is crucial for successful chestnut restoration and ecosystem management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecology and Management)

28 pages, 1456 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Free Surface Energy and Hansen Solubility Parameter Vector Field. Interface Thickness

by Rafael Bailón-Moreno, Miguel Ángel Bailón-Ruiz and Aqeel Shaikhah Arafat Aljadiri

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5834; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135834 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

In this paper, a three-dimensional vector field model is proposed, whose dimensions are the Hansen Solubility Parameters: dispersion parameter (δ_D), polarity parameter (δ_P), and hydrogen bonding parameter (δ_H). The vector space that defines the [...] Read more.

In this paper, a three-dimensional vector field model is proposed, whose dimensions are the Hansen Solubility Parameters: dispersion parameter (δ_D), polarity parameter (δ_P), and hydrogen bonding parameter (δ_H). The vector space that defines the field has the peculiarity of having a dispersion vector with a magnitude of 2 as its base vector, while the polarity and hydrogen bonding vectors have a magnitude of 1. A substance is characterised as a position vector, and the interaction between two substances is determined by calculating the vector difference of both, known as the interaction vector. The interaction among substances may involve solubility, swelling, cracking, surface tension, interface tension, and any physical phenomena where the intermolecular energies of dispersion, polarity or hydrogen bonding come into play. This paper studies free surface energy (surface and interfacial tension). It has been found that free surface energy is directly proportional to the square of the magnitude of the interaction vector. The proportionality constant, τ, is expressed in length units, has a value of 0.025 nm, and does not depend on the chemical nature of the substance or state of matter (solid, liquid or gas). The constant value τ appears universal and aligns with the thickness of interfaces, thereby supporting Guggenheim’s hypothesis. This hypothesis asserts that interfaces possess actual thickness and are not merely mathematical surfaces, as originally postulated by Gibbs. Moreover, it also has been found that the interface thickness, τ, is approximately equal to half of the Bohr radius, a₀, which is defined by universal constants. Because the solubility parameters of thousands of substances are known and can be easily determined from their molecular structure, a good approximation of the surface and interfacial tension of any given substance can now be calculated. It has also been found that the contact angles of sessile droplets in three-phased systems can be calculated from the interaction vectors of the implicated substances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Surface Sciences and Technology)

15 pages, 1610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unearthing Grape Heritage: Morphological Relationships between Late Bronze–Iron Age Grape Pips and Modern Cultivars

by Mariano Ucchesu, Anna Depalmas, Marco Sarigu, Massimo Gardiman, Andrea Lallai, Franco Meggio, Alessandro Usai and Gianluigi Bacchetta

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1836; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131836 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

The grapevine was one of the earliest domesticated fruit crops and has been cultivated since ancient times. It is considered one of the most important fruit crops worldwide for wine and table grape production. The current grape varieties are the outcome of prolonged [...] Read more.

The grapevine was one of the earliest domesticated fruit crops and has been cultivated since ancient times. It is considered one of the most important fruit crops worldwide for wine and table grape production. The current grape varieties are the outcome of prolonged selection initiated during the domestication process of their wild relative. Recent genetic studies have shed light on the origins of the modern domestic grapevine in western Europe, suggesting that its origin stems from the introgression between eastern domestic grapes and western wild grapes. However, the origin of ancient grapevines remains largely unexplored. In this study, we conducted an extensive analysis of 2228 well-preserved waterlogged archaeological grape pips from two sites in Sardinia (Italy), dated to the Late Bronze Age (ca. 1300–1100 BC) and the Iron Age (4th and 3rd centuries BC). Using morphometrics and linear discriminant analyses, we compared the archaeological grape pips with modern reference collections to differentiate between wild and domestic grape types and to investigate similarities with 330 modern cultivars. Grape pips from the Late Bronze Age displayed a high percentage of similarity with domesticated grapevines, with a small percentage assigned to wild ones, while the majority of grape pips from the Iron Age were classified as domestic. Discriminant analyses revealed that both white and red grape varieties were cultivated during the Late Bronze and Iron Ages, suggesting a high level of diversification in grape cultivation. Furthermore, a high percentage of archaeological grape pips from both periods showed strong similarities with modern cultivars from the Caucasus and Balkans. This suggests that the great diversity of grapevines present in Sardinia could result from interbreeding between western Asian cultivars and local grapevines that began in the Late Bronze Age. Additionally, a substantial proportion of archaeological grape pips exhibited similar morphometric characteristics to two important Mediterranean grape cultivars: “Muscat à petits grains blancs” and “Garnacha”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Evolution of Crops and Domestication Syndrome)

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13 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Variations in Cortical Oxygenation by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy According to Head Position after Acute Stroke: The Preliminary Findings of an Observational Study

by Ilaria Casetta, Anna Crepaldi, Michele Laudisi, Andrea Baroni, Jessica Gemignani, Sofia Straudi, Fabio Manfredini and Nicola Lamberti

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(13), 3914; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13133914 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Background: After ischemic stroke, there is no general consensus on the optimal position for the head of patients in the acute phase. This observational study aimed to measure the variations in cortical oxygenation using noninvasive functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) at different degrees [...] Read more.

Background: After ischemic stroke, there is no general consensus on the optimal position for the head of patients in the acute phase. This observational study aimed to measure the variations in cortical oxygenation using noninvasive functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) at different degrees of head positioning on a bed. Methods: Consecutive ischemic stroke patients aged 18 years or older with anterior circulation ischemic stroke within 48 h of symptom onset who could safely assume different positions on a bed were included. A 48-channel fNIRS system was placed in the bilateral sensorimotor cortex. Then, the bed of each patient was moved into four consecutive positions: (1) seated (90° angle between the head and bed surface); (2) lying at 30°; (3) seated again (90°); and (4) lying flat (0°). Each position was maintained for 90 s; the test was conducted 48 h after stroke onset and after 5 ± 1 days. The variations in oxygenated hemoglobin in the global brain surface and for each hemisphere were recorded and compared. Results: Twenty-one patients were included (males, n = 11; age, 79 ± 9 years; ASPECTS, 8 ± 2). When evaluating the affected side, the median oxygenation was significantly greater in the lying-flat (0°) and 30° positions than in the 90° position (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). No significant differences between the supine position and the 30° position were found, although oxygenation was slightly lower in the 30° position than in the supine position (p = 0.063). No differences were observed when comparing recanalized and nonrecanalized patients separately or according to stroke severity. The evaluation conducted 5 days after the stroke confirmed the previous data, with a significant difference in oxygenation at 0° and 30° compared to 90°. Conclusions: This preliminary study suggested that there are no substantial differences in brain oxygenation between the lying-flat head position and the 30° laying position. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Special Issue Series: Recent Advances in Clinical Neurology)

11 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating a Methodical Approach to Lingual Nerve Protection during Third Molar Surgery Using a Standardized Step-by-Step Procedure: A Retrospective Analysis

by Fabrizio Zaccheo, Andrea Cicconetti, Guido Gori and Giulia Petroni

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5835; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135835 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the methodical protection of the lingual nerve via the use of a standardized step-by-step procedure in the surgical extraction of the lower third molar. A 5-year retrospective analysis of surgical third molar surgery conducted by [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess the methodical protection of the lingual nerve via the use of a standardized step-by-step procedure in the surgical extraction of the lower third molar. A 5-year retrospective analysis of surgical third molar surgery conducted by third-year oral surgery specialty program students was performed in the oral surgery department of Policlinico Umberto I in Rome, from 2017 to 2022. All surgeries were carried out using a standardized step-by-step procedure to protect the lingual flap during the surgery. Every patient underwent a review on the initial postoperative day, and subsequently, one week after the surgery, coinciding with the removal of the sutures. During each postoperative visit, thorough examinations were conducted to assess any sensory nerve impairment of the inferior alveolar, lingual, or mylohyoid nerves. None of the cases reported postsurgical lingual nerve injury; there was zero incidence of lingual nerve paresthesia or dysesthesia. The systematic application of lingual flap protection proved to be an effective and reproducible approach for the surgical removal of lower third molars without raising the risk of lingual nerve sensory impairment, regardless of the operator’s experience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Applied Dentistry and Oral Sciences)

14 pages, 19268 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

A New Model of a Macular Buckle and a Refined Surgical Technique for the Treatment of Myopic Traction Maculopathy

by Barbara Parolini

Vision 2024, 8(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision8030042 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Myopic traction maculopathy (MTM) affects 20% of eyes with pathologic myopia (PM). The MTM Staging System (MSS), published in 2020, describes the nomenclature of MTM as well as a proposal of pathogenesis, natural evolution, and prognosis. A study of customized treatment for each [...] Read more.

Myopic traction maculopathy (MTM) affects 20% of eyes with pathologic myopia (PM). The MTM Staging System (MSS), published in 2020, describes the nomenclature of MTM as well as a proposal of pathogenesis, natural evolution, and prognosis. A study of customized treatment for each stage of MTM has been published previously and suggested to treat maculoschisis and detachment by placing a macular buckle (MB) behind the macula to push the sclera towards the retina, selecting pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) only in cases where a macular hole is associated with MTM. We hereby describe a new model of a macular buckle, known as NPB, and an NPB loading device, with the aim to standardize the surgical technique and render it more user friendly, efficient, and safe. Macular buckle is an effective and safe procedure to treat maculoschisis and macular detachment in MTM. We recommend using it as a unique and first-line treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Retinal Function and Disease)

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36 pages, 616 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Role of Health Information Sources on Cervical Cancer Literacy, Knowledge, Attitudes and Screening Practices in Sub-Saharan African Women: A Systematic Review

by Joyline Chepkorir, Dominique Guillaume, Jennifer Lee, Brenice Duroseau, Zhixin Xia, Susan Wyche, Jean Anderson and Hae-Ra Han

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(7), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21070872 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among Sub-Saharan African women. This systematic review aimed to identify information sources and their relation to cervical cancer knowledge, literacy, screening, and attitudes. Peer-reviewed literature was searched on 2 March 2022, and updated on [...] Read more.

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among Sub-Saharan African women. This systematic review aimed to identify information sources and their relation to cervical cancer knowledge, literacy, screening, and attitudes. Peer-reviewed literature was searched on 2 March 2022, and updated on 24 January 2023, in four databases—CINAHL Plus, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science. Eligible studies included those that were empirical, published after 2002, included rural women, and reported on information sources and preferences. The quality of the selected articles was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data extraction was conducted on an Excel spreadsheet, and a narrative synthesis was used to summarize findings from 33 studies. Healthcare workers were the most cited information sources, followed by mass media, social networks, print media, churches, community leaders, the Internet, and teachers. Community leaders were preferred, while healthcare workers were the most credible sources among rural women. There was generally low cervical cancer knowledge, literacy, and screening uptake, yet high prevalence of negative attitudes toward cervical cancer and its screening; these outcomes were worse in rural areas. A content analysis revealed a positive association of health information sources with cervical cancer literacy, knowledge, screening, and positive screening attitudes. Disparities in cervical cancer prevention exist between rural and urban Sub-Saharan African women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reducing Health Disparities: The Role of Health Literacy and Health Promotion)

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12 pages, 427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empowering University Lecturers in the Digital Age: Exploring the Factors Influencing the Use of Digital Technologies in Higher Education

by Garazi Azanza, Oihane Korres, Jessica Paños-Castro and Josep Petchamé

Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14070728 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

In an era where digital technologies (DTs) are reshaping educational delivery methods, university lecturers’ ability and willingness to integrate these innovations into their teaching practices are increasingly important. This study, conducted from October 2022 to February 2023, aims to examine the impact of [...] Read more.

In an era where digital technologies (DTs) are reshaping educational delivery methods, university lecturers’ ability and willingness to integrate these innovations into their teaching practices are increasingly important. This study, conducted from October 2022 to February 2023, aims to examine the impact of attitude and training on university lecturers’ self-efficacy in using DTs and to assess the influence of self-efficacy on their interest in using DTs. A total of 294 university lecturers participated in the study and completed a questionnaire assessing their perception of DTs as a didactic tool, attitude towards the use of virtual classrooms, perceived self-efficacy, and interest in the use of DTs, and training in the use of DTs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple linear regressions to explore the relationships between study variables. The results indicated that positive attitudes and suitable training were positively associated with higher self-efficacy. Moreover, high levels of self-efficacy were found to be aligned with an interest in using DTs. These findings shed light on key factors that can effectively encourage the successful adoption of DTs among lecturers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Trends for Modern Higher Education)

24 pages, 3389 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Drought Stress on the Rhizosphere Bacterial Community Structure of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz)

by Huling Huang, Mingchao Li, Qiying Guo, Rui Zhang, Yindong Zhang, Kai Luo and Yinhua Chen

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(13), 7326; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25137326 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

Drought presents a significant abiotic stress that threatens crop productivity worldwide. Rhizosphere bacteria play pivotal roles in modulating plant growth and resilience to environmental stresses. Despite this, the extent to which rhizosphere bacteria are instrumental in plant responses to drought, and whether distinct [...] Read more.

Drought presents a significant abiotic stress that threatens crop productivity worldwide. Rhizosphere bacteria play pivotal roles in modulating plant growth and resilience to environmental stresses. Despite this, the extent to which rhizosphere bacteria are instrumental in plant responses to drought, and whether distinct cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) varieties harbor specific rhizosphere bacterial assemblages, remains unclear. In this study, we measured the growth and physiological characteristics, as well as the physical and chemical properties of the rhizosphere soil of drought-tolerant (SC124) and drought-sensitive (SC8) cassava varieties under conditions of both well-watered and drought stress. Employing 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing, we analyzed the composition and dynamics of the rhizosphere bacterial community. Under drought stress, biomass, plant height, stem diameter, quantum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm), and soluble sugar of cassava decreased for both SC8 and SC124. The two varieties’ rhizosphere bacterial communities’ overall taxonomic structure was highly similar, but there were slight differences in relative abundance. SC124 mainly relied on Gamma-proteobacteria and Acidobacteriae in response to drought stress, and the abundance of this class was positively correlated with soil acid phosphatase. SC8 mainly relied on Actinobacteria in response to drought stress, and the abundance of this class was positively correlated with soil urease and soil saccharase. Overall, this study confirmed the key role of drought-induced rhizosphere bacteria in improving the adaptation of cassava to drought stress and clarified that this process is significantly related to variety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Microbiology)

14 pages, 386 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Managing the Santa Cruz River: Prospects for a Future Binational Minute

by Stephen Mumme and Christopher Brown

Water 2024, 16(13), 1909; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16131909 (registering DOI) - 3 Jul 2024

Abstract

This paper examines the prospects for developing and implementing a binational water management agreement for the transboundary Santa Cruz River that crosses the US–Mexico boundary near the sister cities of Nogales, Sonora–Nogales, Arizona. After considering the geography, history, socio-economic context, and binational agreements [...] Read more.

This paper examines the prospects for developing and implementing a binational water management agreement for the transboundary Santa Cruz River that crosses the US–Mexico boundary near the sister cities of Nogales, Sonora–Nogales, Arizona. After considering the geography, history, socio-economic context, and binational agreements affecting utilization of the Santa Cruz River, we review the conditions influencing recent binational progress on another transboundary river, the Tijuana River. Specifically, we ask what conditions created a favorable environment in which a binational agreement for management of the Tijuana River Watershed (TRW) was developed, what specific actions by relevant policy officials took place, and how the final agreement was reached. We then compare the dynamics that unfolded in the TRW with conditions in the Santa Cruz River to identify obstacles hindering progress towards achieving an International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) agreement (Minute) on shared management of the Santa Cruz River in its international reach. We find that the required political conditions that favored an agreement on the Tijuana River are not yet met on the Santa Cruz, although several favorable conditions do exist. We conclude with an assessment of current prospects for advancing binational cooperation that can inform discussion of how an IBWC Minute could be drafted to address water resource management issues in the Santa Cruz River Basin. Full article

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