The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
26 pages, 6059 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Sustainable Urban Intermodal Systems: Simulating the Effects of Key Parameters in Integrated Ride-Pooling and Public Transport
by Ester Lorente, Esteve Codina, Jaume Barceló and Klaus Nökel
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 5013; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16125013 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mobility as a service, and its associated variants, has been proposed as a method to improve the sustainability of transport systems; however, most of the approaches that have been proposed so far have been unsuccessful or have worsened the situation. The work presented [...] Read more.
Mobility as a service, and its associated variants, has been proposed as a method to improve the sustainability of transport systems; however, most of the approaches that have been proposed so far have been unsuccessful or have worsened the situation. The work presented in this paper investigates an intermodal system that combines a ride-pooling service with a public transport network. The system is composed of a dedicated simulator that evaluates the transport scenario and an intermodal dispatcher that optimises the service according to requests, accounting for their time windows. This intermodal approach considers trips with multiple legs, for which either ride-pooling or public transport are used. This study investigates how the batch size and the early dispatching of the last leg, supported by a vehicle reservation strategy, impact diverse demand profiles that range from single-passenger to multiple-passenger requests, while also addressing the critical aspect of fleet size. The experimental setting used in this work is the metropolitan area of Barcelona; the experimentation results yield valuable insights into the functionality of the proposed intermodal system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Urban Mobility Project)
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Article
Coding Decoded: Exploring Course Achievement and Gender Disparities in an Online Flipped Classroom Programming Course
by Smirna Malkoc, Alexander Steinmaurer, Christian Gütl, Silke Luttenberger and Manuela Paechter
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14060634 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
In introductory programming courses (IPCs), students encounter various difficulties that are related to low achievement and high dropout and failure rates. Technology-rich approaches that promote self-directed learning while facilitating competency development and knowledge construction through social collaboration may offer advantages in this context. [...] Read more.
In introductory programming courses (IPCs), students encounter various difficulties that are related to low achievement and high dropout and failure rates. Technology-rich approaches that promote self-directed learning while facilitating competency development and knowledge construction through social collaboration may offer advantages in this context. The current study assesses such an instructional approach by (1) identifying antecedents and process variables related to course achievement in an online flipped classroom IPC and (2) testing for gender differences regarding antecedents, process variables, and course achievement. In the winter semester of 2020/21, a sample of 144 Austrian university students participated in a survey with measurements at different points in time. Multiple linear regression was carried out to explore factors related to course achievement. The results indicate that gender, achievement-avoidance goals, academic self-concept, engagement in asynchronous learning, and course satisfaction were positively related to achievement. In contrast, work avoidance was identified as a barrier to achievement. Additionally, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was employed to test gender differences. MANOVA revealed significant gender differences regarding learning goals, mathematical self-concept, work avoidance, and engagement in synchronous learning. There were no gender differences regarding course satisfaction or achievement. The study has implications for designing innovative programming courses that could foster course satisfaction and achievement and thus reduce dropout and failure rates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Education: Theory, Method and Practice)
17 pages, 4202 KiB  
Article
Investigating Algal Sensor Utilization Methods for Three-Dimensional Algal Control Technology Evaluation
by Yeon-Jeong Park, Hye-Suk Yi, Seok-Jea Youn, Seung-Jae Lee, Deok-Hyeon Jin, Hee-Suk Lee and Han-Soon Kim
Water 2024, 16(12), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121679 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
There are physical, chemical, and biological methods to control algae, and their efficiency requires evaluation. In the field, monitoring and evaluating the overall algal concentration is challenging due to factors such as the flow rate, inhomogeneous distribution of algae in the water body, [...] Read more.
There are physical, chemical, and biological methods to control algae, and their efficiency requires evaluation. In the field, monitoring and evaluating the overall algal concentration is challenging due to factors such as the flow rate, inhomogeneous distribution of algae in the water body, and limitations in the number of samples for microscopic analysis. In this study, we analyzed total and cyanobacterial chlorophyll a (Chl-a) using a FluoroProbe sensor and microscopic data collected from March to November 2019. The Pearson correlation coefficient of log(x + 1) values revealed a significant positive correlation between four harmful cyanobacteria and cyanobacterial Chl-a (r = 0.618, p < 0.01). Furthermore, we explored the potential of evaluating the efficiency of algal control using sensors by acquiring three-dimensional, spatially continuous data for an algal fence, a physical algae control technology installed at the Daecheong Dam in 2021. The results confirmed that sensors can effectively evaluate algal control technology. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using sensors to assess the efficiency of physical algal control. Full article
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Article
Interannual Evolution Characteristics of the Carbon and Nitrogen Footprints of Maize Production in Inner Mongolia
by Hongwei Liang, Zhipeng Cheng, Ruixia Zhao, Fugui Wang, Haibo Shi, Yuan Li, Zhen Wang, Lanfang Bai, Yongqiang Wang, Jing Zhang, Xiaoling Jin and Zhigang Wang
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1273; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061273 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
As the third-largest maize-producing province in China and a typical arid and semi-arid region, quantitatively evaluating the carbon and nitrogen footprints of maize production and their dominant factors is of great significance in guiding the high-yield, low-carbon, and sustainable development of maize production [...] Read more.
As the third-largest maize-producing province in China and a typical arid and semi-arid region, quantitatively evaluating the carbon and nitrogen footprints of maize production and their dominant factors is of great significance in guiding the high-yield, low-carbon, and sustainable development of maize production in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. This study quantitatively evaluated the interannual evolution characteristics of the carbon and nitrogen footprints in maize production and their dominant factors in Inner Mongolia from 2003 to 2022 based on statistical yearbook data and emission parameter models. The results showed that from 2003 to 2022, the maize planting area, yield, and total yield in Inner Mongolia all increased, with an average annual increase of 97 kg ha−1 in yield and 1.23 × 106 Mg in total yield. The carbon and nitrogen footprints of Inner Mongolia maize production over the past 20 years had overall decreasing trends, while the nitrogen fertilizer bias productivity, net ecosystem carbon balance, and sustainability index had increasing trends. Carbon footprint reduced by an average of 5.2 kg CO2 eq Mg−1 per year, and nitrogen footprint reduced by an average of 0.21 g N eq kg−1 per year. Currently, the transportation and production of fertilizer and field application of N fertilizer are the main controlling factors of GHG emissions from maize production. NO3-N, NH4+-N leaching, and NH3 volatilization from field application of N fertilizer are the main sources of reactive N losses. The application of simplified processes, such as phased regulation of nitrogen and controlled-release fertilizers, as well as conservation tillage, have broad prospects for emission reduction in maize production in Inner Mongolia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
Article
Virtual Power Plants: Challenges, Opportunities, and Profitability Assessment in Current Energy Markets
by Zahid Ullah, Arshad Arshad and Azam Nekahi
Electricity 2024, 5(2), 370-384; https://doi.org/10.3390/electricity5020019 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The arrival of virtual power plants (VPPs) marks important progress in the energy sector, providing optimistic solutions to the increasing need for energy flexibility, resilience, and improved energy systems’ integration. VPPs harness several characteristics to bring together distributed energy resources (DERs), resulting in [...] Read more.
The arrival of virtual power plants (VPPs) marks important progress in the energy sector, providing optimistic solutions to the increasing need for energy flexibility, resilience, and improved energy systems’ integration. VPPs harness several characteristics to bring together distributed energy resources (DERs), resulting in economic gains and improved power grid reliability. Nevertheless, VPPs encounter major challenges when it comes to engaging in energy markets, mainly because there is no all-encompassing policy and regulatory framework specifically designed to accommodate their unique characteristics. This underscores the necessity for research endeavours to develop more advanced methods and structures for the long-term viability of VPPs. To address this concern, the study advocates for the implementation of a multi-aspect framework (MAF) as a systematic approach to thoroughly examine each aspect of virtual power plants (VPPs). A STEEP (social, technological, environmental, economic, and political) analytical tool is utilized to evaluate the challenges, opportunities, and benefits of a VPP in the existing energy markets. The proposed approach highlights important factors and actions that need to be taken to tackle the challenges related to VPP’ entry into energy markets. This study suggests that further support is required to promote the fast and widespread adoption of long-term VPP implementations. For this reason, a more favourable policy and regulatory framework based on social, technological, economic, environmental, and policy considerations is necessary to realize the genuine contributions of VPPs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Energy Systems, 2nd Edition)
Article
Osteoinductive Properties of Autologous Dentin: An Ex Vivo Study on Extracted Teeth
by Giulia Mazzucchi, Alessia Mariano, Giorgio Serafini, Luca Lamazza, Anna Scotto d’Abusco, Alberto De Biase and Marco Lollobrigida
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060162 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Over the last decades, a variety of biomaterials, ranging from synthetic products to autologous and heterologous grafts, have been recommended to conserve and regenerate bone tissue after tooth extraction. We conducted a biochemical study on ground extracted teeth that aimed to evaluate the [...] Read more.
Over the last decades, a variety of biomaterials, ranging from synthetic products to autologous and heterologous grafts, have been recommended to conserve and regenerate bone tissue after tooth extraction. We conducted a biochemical study on ground extracted teeth that aimed to evaluate the osteoinductive and osteoconductive potential of dentin by assessing the releases of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP-2), osteocalcin (OC) and osteonectin (ON) over time (24 h, 10 days and 28 days). Twenty-six patients, who required the extraction of nonrestorable teeth, were enrolled in the study according to the inclusion criteria, as follows: thirteen young patients 18 to 49 years of age (UNDER 50), and thirteen patients of 50 to 70 years (OVER 50); a total of twenty-six teeth were extracted, ground and analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). All ground teeth released BMP-2, OC and ON at each time point; no differences were observed between the UNDER-50 and OVER-50 patients. The results of the study support the use of autologous dentin as osteoinductive material for bone regeneration procedures, irrespective of patients’ ages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomaterials for Regenerative Dentistry)
Article
Mathematical Modeling, Parameters Effect, and Sensitivity Analysis of a Hybrid PVT System
by Md Tofael Ahmed, Masud Rana Rashel, Mohammad Abdullah-Al-Wadud, Tania Tanzin Hoque, Fernando M. Janeiro and Mouhaydine Tlemcani
Energies 2024, 17(12), 2887; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17122887 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Hybrid PVT solar systems offer an innovative approach that allows solar energy to be used to simultaneously generate thermal and electrical energy. It is still a challenge to develop an energy-efficient hybrid PVT system. The aim of this work is to develop a [...] Read more.
Hybrid PVT solar systems offer an innovative approach that allows solar energy to be used to simultaneously generate thermal and electrical energy. It is still a challenge to develop an energy-efficient hybrid PVT system. The aim of this work is to develop a mathematical model, investigate the system’s performance based on parameters, include sensitivity analysis in the upper layer mainly photovoltaic part, and provide an efficient and innovative system. Performance analysis of the hybrid system is obtained by establishing a mathematical model and efficiency analysis. The electrical model and thermal model of the hybrid system is also obtained by appropriate and complete mathematical modeling. It establishes a good connection of the system in the context of electrical analysis and power generation. The parameters variation impact and sensitivity analysis of the most important parameters, namely, irradiance, ambient temperature, panel temperature, wind speed, and humidity in the PV panel section, are also obtained using a MATLAB model. The results show the effective increase or decrease in the electrical power and sensitiveness in the output of the system due to this modification. Related MPP values as a result of these parameters variation and their impact on the overall output of the hybrid PVT system are also analyzed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A2: Solar Energy and Photovoltaic Systems)
Article
Phosphorus-Doping Enables the Superior Durability of a Palladium Electrocatalyst towards Alkaline Oxygen Reduction Reactions
by Wen-Yuan Zhao, Miao-Ying Chen, Hao-Ran Wu, Wei-Dong Li and Bang-An Lu
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2879; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122879 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The sluggish kinetics of oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) require considerable Pd in the cathode, hindering the widespread of alkaline fuel cells (AFCs). By alloying Pd with transition metals, the oxygen reduction reaction’s catalytic properties can be substantially enhanced. Nevertheless, the utilization of Pd-transition [...] Read more.
The sluggish kinetics of oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) require considerable Pd in the cathode, hindering the widespread of alkaline fuel cells (AFCs). By alloying Pd with transition metals, the oxygen reduction reaction’s catalytic properties can be substantially enhanced. Nevertheless, the utilization of Pd-transition metal alloys in fuel cells is significantly constrained by their inadequate long-term durability due to the propensity of transition metals to leach. In this study, a nonmetallic doping strategy was devised and implemented to produce a Pd catalyst doped with P that exhibited exceptional durability towards ORRs. Pd3P0.95 with an average size of 6.41 nm was synthesized by the heat-treatment phosphorization of Pd nanoparticles followed by acid etching. After P-doping, the size of the Pd nanoparticles increased from 5.37 nm to 6.41 nm, and the initial mass activity (MA) of Pd3P0.95/NC reached 0.175 A mgPd−1 at 0.9 V, slightly lower than that of Pd/C. However, after 40,000 cycles of accelerated durability testing, instead of decreasing, the MA of Pd3P0.95/NC increased by 6.3% while the MA loss of Pd/C was 38.3%. The durability was primarily ascribed to the electronic structure effect and the aggregation resistance of the Pd nanoparticles. This research also establishes a foundation for the development of Pd-based ORR catalysts and offers a direction for the future advancement of catalysts designed for practical applications in AFCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Chemistry)
Article
Exploring User Attitudes and Behavioral Intentions towards Augmented Reality Automotive Assistants: A Mixed-Methods Approach
by Fucheng Wan, Jian Teng and Lisi Feng
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(6), 258; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15060258 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
As augmented reality (AR) technology is increasingly permeating the automotive industry, this study investigates users’ attitudes towards AR automotive assistants and their impact on usage behavior. Using the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and integrating insights from the Kano model, critical factors driving [...] Read more.
As augmented reality (AR) technology is increasingly permeating the automotive industry, this study investigates users’ attitudes towards AR automotive assistants and their impact on usage behavior. Using the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and integrating insights from the Kano model, critical factors driving user acceptance and engagement were identified. The research reveals that trust in AR technology, perceived utility, and ease of interaction are prioritized by users. Clustering analysis identified three distinct user groups: a ‘Safety-Conscious Group’, a ‘Technology Enthusiast Group’, and an ‘Experience-Seeking Group’, each displaying unique preferences towards AR features. Additionally, a support vector machine (SVM) model effectively predicted user behavior with a training set accuracy of 89.96%. These findings provide valuable insights for the design and marketing of AR automotive assistants, acknowledging both essential features and delighters identified through the Kano model. By understanding user preferences and expectations, tailored AR solutions can be developed to enhance user satisfaction and adoption rates in the automotive sector. Moreover, this research contributes to the sustainable development goals related to the automotive industry by fostering innovation in vehicle technology, promoting eco-friendly driving practices, and enhancing overall mobility efficiency. Full article
Review
Nature’s Plastic Predators: A Comprehensive and Bibliometric Review of Plastivore Insects
by Joseph Boctor, Gunjan Pandey, Wei Xu, Daniel V. Murphy and Frances C. Hoyle
Polymers 2024, 16(12), 1671; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16121671 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Unprecedented plastic production has resulted in over six billion tons of harmful waste. Certain insect taxa emerge as potential agents of plastic biodegradation. Through a comprehensive manual and bibliometric literature analysis, this review analyses and consolidates the growing literature related to insect-mediated plastic [...] Read more.
Unprecedented plastic production has resulted in over six billion tons of harmful waste. Certain insect taxa emerge as potential agents of plastic biodegradation. Through a comprehensive manual and bibliometric literature analysis, this review analyses and consolidates the growing literature related to insect-mediated plastic breakdown. Over 23 insect species, representing Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and 4 other orders, have been identified for their capacity to consume plastic polymers. Natural and synthetic polymers exhibit high-level similarities in molecular structure and properties. Thus, in conjunction with comparative genomics studies, we link plastic-degrading enzymatic capabilities observed in certain insects to the exaptation of endogenous enzymes originally evolved for digesting lignin, cellulose, beeswax, keratin and chitin from their native dietary substrates. Further clarification is necessary to distinguish mineralisation from physicochemical fragmentation and to differentiate microbiome-mediated degradation from direct enzymatic reactions by insects. A bibliometric analysis of the exponentially growing body of literature showed that leading research is emerging from China and the USA. Analogies between natural and synthetic polymer’s degradation pathways will inform engineering robust enzymes for practical plastic bioremediation applications. By aggregating, analysing, and interpreting published insights, this review consolidates our mechanistic understanding of insects as a potential natural solution to the escalating plastic waste crisis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Degradation of Plastics)
16 pages, 5594 KiB  
Article
Modeling the Dynamics of Water and Mud Inrush in Fault Fracture Zones: The Role of Seepage–Erosion Interactions
by Qingyan Zhang and Xiaowen Zhou
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5115; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125115 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
By using the principles of porous media seepage mechanics and solute transport theories, a seepage–erosion theory model was developed to uncover the dynamics of mud and water inrush in fault rupture zones during the construction of tunnels. This model consists of a mass [...] Read more.
By using the principles of porous media seepage mechanics and solute transport theories, a seepage–erosion theory model was developed to uncover the dynamics of mud and water inrush in fault rupture zones during the construction of tunnels. This model consists of a mass conservation equation, a flow transformation equation, a porosity evolution equation, and a permeability evolution equation. These components illustrate the interaction between seepage–erosion particle loss and the transformation of seepage flow patterns throughout the mud and water inrush evolution in the fault fracture zone. This model proves to be effective in illustrating the catastrophic process of mud and water inrushes within tunnels located in fault rupture zones. To address the spatial and temporal variations, the implicit difference and Galerkin finite element schemes were utilized, and the Newton–Raphson iteration method was applied to handle the nonlinear attributes of the equations. The theoretical model underwent further development and numerical simulations were performed using COMSOL multi-field coupling software. A comparison with existing indoor water inrush mud model test results validated the effectiveness of our model. The theoretical model was then applied to the Yong Lian tunnel scenario within the fault rupture zone. This computational analysis exposed the sequence of flow pattern transformations and the instability in seepage–erosion evolution within the fault rupture zone, ultimately leading to the emergence of mud and water inrush disasters. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for addressing tunnel engineering challenges related to underwater inrush disasters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Groundwater and Groundwater Engineering)
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Article
Gelatin-Based Liver Phantoms for Training Purposes: A Cookbook Approach
by Radu Claudiu Elisei, Florin Graur, Amir Szold, Andreas Melzer, Sever Cãlin Moldovan, Mihai Motrescu, Emil Moiş, Cãlin Popa, Doina Pîsla, Cãlin Vaida, Tiberiu Tudor, Adrian Coţe and Nadim Al-Hajjar
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(12), 3440; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13123440 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Patients with liver pathology benefit from image-guided interventions. Training for interventional procedures is recommended to be performed on liver phantoms until a basic proficiency is reached. In the last 40 years, several attempts have been made to develop materials to mimic [...] Read more.
Background: Patients with liver pathology benefit from image-guided interventions. Training for interventional procedures is recommended to be performed on liver phantoms until a basic proficiency is reached. In the last 40 years, several attempts have been made to develop materials to mimic the imaging characteristics of the human liver in order to create liver phantoms. There is still a lack of accessible, reproducible and cost-effective soft liver phantoms for image-guided procedure training. Methods: Starting from a CT-scan DICOM file, we created a 3D-printed liver mold using InVesalius (Centro de Tecnologia da informação Renato Archer CTI, InVesalius 3 open-source software, Campinas, Brazil) for segmentation, Autodesk Fusion 360 with Netfabb (Autodesk software company, Fusion 360 2.0.19426 with Autodesk Netfabb Premium 2023.0 64-Bit Edition, San Francisco, CA, USA) for 3D modeling and Stratasys Fortus 380 mc 3D printer (Stratasys 3D printing company, Fortus 380 mc 3D printer, Minneapolis, MN, USA). Using the 3D-printed mold, we created 14 gelatin-based liver phantoms with 14 different recipes, using water, cast sugar and dehydrated gelatin, 32% fat bovine milk cream with intravenous lipid solution and technical alcohol in different amounts. We tested all these phantoms as well as ex vivo pig liver and human normal, fatty and cirrhotic liver by measuring the elasticity, shear wave speed, ultrasound attenuation, CT-scan density, MRI signal intensity and fracture force. We assessed the results of the testing performed, as well as the optical appearance on ultrasound, CT and MRI, in order to find the best recipe for gelatin-based phantoms for image-guided procedure training. Results: After the assessment of all phantom recipes, we selected as the best recipe for transparent phantoms one with 14 g of gelatin/100 mL water and for opaque phantom, the recipes with 25% cream. Conclusions: These liver gelatin-based phantom recipes are an inexpensive, reproducible and accessible alternative for training in image-guided and diagnostic procedures and will meet most requirements for valuable training. Full article
22 pages, 8603 KiB  
Article
Novel Methods for Personalized Gait Assistance: Three-Dimensional Trajectory Prediction Based on Regression and LSTM Models
by Pablo Romero-Sorozábal, Gabriel Delgado-Oleas, Annemarie F. Laudanski, Álvaro Gutiérrez and Eduardo Rocon
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060352 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Enhancing human–robot interaction has been a primary focus in robotic gait assistance, with a thorough understanding of human motion being crucial for personalizing gait assistance. Traditional gait trajectory references from Clinical Gait Analysis (CGA) face limitations due to their inability to account for [...] Read more.
Enhancing human–robot interaction has been a primary focus in robotic gait assistance, with a thorough understanding of human motion being crucial for personalizing gait assistance. Traditional gait trajectory references from Clinical Gait Analysis (CGA) face limitations due to their inability to account for individual variability. Recent advancements in gait pattern generators, integrating regression models and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) techniques, have aimed at providing more personalized and dynamically adaptable solutions. This article introduces a novel approach that expands regression and ANN applications beyond mere angular estimations to include three-dimensional spatial predictions. Unlike previous methods, our approach provides comprehensive spatial trajectories for hip, knee and ankle tailored to individual kinematics, significantly enhancing end-effector rehabilitation robotic devices. Our models achieve state-of-the-art accuracy: overall RMSE of 13.40 mm and a correlation coefficient of 0.92 for the regression model, and RMSE of 12.57 mm and a correlation of 0.99 for the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model. These advancements underscore the potential of these models to offer more personalized gait trajectory assistance, improving human–robot interactions. Full article
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19 pages, 1332 KiB  
Article
Importance of the Rotational Transform for L–H Transitions in the TJ-II Stellarator
by Boudewijn Philip van Milligen, Teresa Estrada, Benjamin Carreras, Luis García and TJ-II Team
Plasma 2024, 7(2), 446-464; https://doi.org/10.3390/plasma7020024 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
We study the effect of the rotational transform profile on the L–H confinement transitions in the neutral beam-heated plasmas in the TJ-II stellarator. The rotational transform profile in the vacuum is determined by the external coil currents but is modified by the plasma [...] Read more.
We study the effect of the rotational transform profile on the L–H confinement transitions in the neutral beam-heated plasmas in the TJ-II stellarator. The rotational transform profile in the vacuum is determined by the external coil currents but is modified by the plasma current, Ip. We find that L–H confinement transitions systematically occur when the configuration and plasma current are such that a low-order rational is placed in the plasma edge region, with a distribution centered around ρ=0.8±0.05. It is suggested that magnetohydrodynamic turbulence plays an important role in triggering the L–H transitions at TJ-II. Full article
18 pages, 583 KiB  
Review
A Scoping Review of Research on the Use of Digital Technologies for Teaching Reading Fluency
by Grace Oakley
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 633; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14060633 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Reading fluency is a crucial component of reading. Research indicates that the use of digital technologies can help students with reading difficulties and disabilities improve their reading fluency. Objectives: The objective of this scoping review was to identify and describe research focusing [...] Read more.
Background: Reading fluency is a crucial component of reading. Research indicates that the use of digital technologies can help students with reading difficulties and disabilities improve their reading fluency. Objectives: The objective of this scoping review was to identify and describe research focusing on the use of digital technologies for teaching reading fluency to primary or elementary students in English-speaking settings. Design: Online databases were used to identify papers published between 2013 and 2023. Eighty-six papers that met the inclusion criteria were selected for analysis. Results: The review indicates that research has primarily focused on the use of digital technologies as interventions to support students at risk of reading difficulties and students with disabilities, with relatively little research emphasis on general classroom teaching of reading fluency. Moreover, uses of digital technologies for the teaching of reading fluency could mostly be categorised as “enhancements” of common non-digital strategies for teaching reading fluency, such as explicit teaching, drill and practice, and repeated readings. Much of the research has focused on the use of programs as opposed to the innovative use of open-ended digital tools. Conclusions: This paper raises questions about the relatively narrow uses of digital technologies in the teaching and research of reading fluency and calls for an expanded research agenda to include a broader range of pedagogical goals and approaches. Full article
41 pages, 5093 KiB  
Review
A Short History of the First 50 Years: From the GRB Prompt Emission and Afterglow Discoveries to the Multimessenger Era
by Filippo Frontera
Universe 2024, 10(6), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe10060260 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
More than fifty years have elapsed from the first discovery of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) with American Vela satellites, and more than twenty-five years from the discovery with the BeppoSAX satellite of the first X-ray afterglow of a GRB. Thanks to the afterglow discovery [...] Read more.
More than fifty years have elapsed from the first discovery of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) with American Vela satellites, and more than twenty-five years from the discovery with the BeppoSAX satellite of the first X-ray afterglow of a GRB. Thanks to the afterglow discovery and to the possibility given to the optical and radio astronomers to discover the GRB optical counterparts, the long-time mystery about the origin of these events has been solved. Now we know that GRBs are huge explosions, mainly ultra relativistic jets, in galaxies at cosmological distances. Starting from the first GRB detection with the Vela satellites, I will review the story of these discoveries, those obtained with BeppoSAX, the contribution to GRBs by other satellites and ground experiments, among them being Venera, Compton Gamma Ray Observatory, HETE-2, Swift, Fermi, AGILE, MAGIC, H.E.S.S., which were, and some of them are still, very important for the study of GRB properties. Then, I will review the main results obtained thus far and the still open problems and prospects of GRB astronomy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue GRBs Phenomenology, Models and Applications: A Beginner Guide)
19 pages, 811 KiB  
Review
The Complex Intracellular Lifecycle of Staphylococcus Aureus Contributes to Reduced Antibiotic Efficacy and Persistent Bacteremia
by Cecilia F. Volk, Richard A. Proctor and Warren E. Rose
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(12), 6486; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25126486 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia continues to be associated with significant morbidity and mortality, despite improvements in diagnostics and management. Persistent infections pose a major challenge to clinicians and have been consistently shown to increase the risk of mortality and other infectious complications. S. aureus [...] Read more.
Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia continues to be associated with significant morbidity and mortality, despite improvements in diagnostics and management. Persistent infections pose a major challenge to clinicians and have been consistently shown to increase the risk of mortality and other infectious complications. S. aureus, while typically not considered an intracellular pathogen, has been proven to utilize an intracellular niche, through several phenotypes including small colony variants, as a means for survival that has been linked to chronic, persistent, and recurrent infections. This intracellular persistence allows for protection from the host immune system and leads to reduced antibiotic efficacy through a variety of mechanisms. These include antimicrobial resistance, tolerance, and/or persistence in S. aureus that contribute to persistent bacteremia. This review will discuss the challenges associated with treating these complicated infections and the various methods that S. aureus uses to persist within the intracellular space. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Host-Pathogen Interactions during Persistent Bacterial Infections)
18 pages, 1048 KiB  
Review
Progress in Solvent-Based Recycling of Polymers from Multilayer Packaging
by Tianmiao Li, George Theodosopoulos, Chris Lovell, Adamantini Loukodimou, Kranthi Kumar Maniam and Shiladitya Paul
Polymers 2024, 16(12), 1670; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16121670 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Conversion of chemical feedstocks derived from fossil fuels to virgin polymer, manufacturing of plastics in coal-dependent economies, and increasing consumption of virgin polymers for plastics packaging contribute significantly to environmental issues and the challenges we face. Nowadays, promoting sustainable development has become the [...] Read more.
Conversion of chemical feedstocks derived from fossil fuels to virgin polymer, manufacturing of plastics in coal-dependent economies, and increasing consumption of virgin polymers for plastics packaging contribute significantly to environmental issues and the challenges we face. Nowadays, promoting sustainable development has become the consensus of more and more countries. Among them, the recycling of multilayer packaging is a huge challenge. Due to the complexity of its structure and materials, as well as the limitations of existing recycling frameworks, currently, multilayer packaging cannot be commercially recycled thus resulting in a series of circular economy challenges. It is undeniable that multilayer packaging offers many positive effects on products and consumers, so banning the use of such packaging would be unwise and unrealistic. Developing the appropriate processes to recycle multilayer packaging is the most feasible strategy. In recent years, there have been some studies devoted to the recycling process of multilayer packaging. Many of the processes being developed involve the use of solvents. Based on the recycled products, we categorised these recycling processes as solvent-based recycling, including physical dissolution and chemical depolymerisation. In physical dissolution, there are mainly two approaches named delamination and selective dissolution–precipitation. Focusing on these processes, this paper reviews the solvents developed and used in the last 20 years for the recycling of polymers from multilayer packaging waste and gives a summary of their advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, product quality, ease of processing, and environmental impact. Based on existing research, one could conclude that solvent-based recycling methods have the potential to be commercialised and become part of a standard recycling process for polymer-based multilayer packaging. The combined use of multiple solvent-based recycling processes could be a breakthrough in achieving unified recycling of multilayer packaging with different components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Circular and Green Polymer Science)
21 pages, 2362 KiB  
Article
Functional Alpha and Beta Diversity of Fish Communities and Their Relationship with Environmental Factors in the Huanghe River (Yellow River) Estuary and Adjacent Seas, China
by Shaowen Li, Yufang Huang, Fan Li, Yanfen Liu, Hongliang Ma, Xiaomin Zhang, Xiuxia Wang, Wei Chen, Guangxin Cui and Tiantian Wang
Fishes 2024, 9(6), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9060222 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Fisheries and bottom seawater data were collected in July in 2022 and 2023 from 15 sampling stations in the Huanghe River estuary and adjacent seas in China. The patterns of functional alpha and beta diversity of fish communities in this area and their [...] Read more.
Fisheries and bottom seawater data were collected in July in 2022 and 2023 from 15 sampling stations in the Huanghe River estuary and adjacent seas in China. The patterns of functional alpha and beta diversity of fish communities in this area and their relationships with environmental factors were studied using trait-based analysis. Five functional classifications, which included 16 functional traits, four functional alpha diversity indices (functional richness, functional evenness, functional divergence, and community-weighted mean), three functional beta diversity indices (functional beta diversity and its turnover and nestedness components), and 14 bottom environmental factors were considered. The dominant traits of fish communities were the following: benthivorous feeding habits, small and front-facing mouths, high trophic level, demersal, anguilliform, low growth coefficient, medium resilience, low vulnerability, and adapted to warm temperate conditions. The dominant migration traits and types of fish eggs varied by year, and fish abundance was the main factor affecting the dominant traits of the communities. The results of multiple regression on distance matrices and variance partitioning analysis indicated that ammonia nitrogen content, total phosphorus content, and pH were the main environmental factors that affected fish functional diversity. The N/P ratio had a bottom-up control effect on fish functional diversity. Our findings also revealed that high pH gradients and distant geographical distances can inhibit trait turnover in fish communities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Spatial Distribution of Fishes)
10 pages, 1028 KiB  
Communication
Exploring Heavy Metal and Metalloid Exposure in Children: A Pilot Biomonitoring Study near a Sugarcane Mill
by Oliver Mendoza-Cano, Agustin Lugo-Radillo, Mónica Ríos-Silva, Irma Elizabeth Gonzalez-Curiel, Jaime Alberto Bricio-Barrios, Arlette A. Camacho-delaCruz, María Fernanda Romo-García, Herguin Benjamín Cuevas-Arellano, Ana Luz Quintanilla-Montoya, Ramón Solano-Barajas, Juan Manuel Uribe-Ramos, Luis A. García-Solórzano, Ángel Gabriel Hilerio-López, Alma Alejandra Solano-Mendoza, Rogelio Danis-Romero and Efrén Murillo-Zamora
Toxics 2024, 12(6), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12060426 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Sugarcane production has been linked to the release of heavy metals and metalloids (HM/MTs) into the environment, raising concerns about potential health risks. This study aimed to assess the levels of 19 HM/MTs in children living near a sugarcane mill through a pilot [...] Read more.
Sugarcane production has been linked to the release of heavy metals and metalloids (HM/MTs) into the environment, raising concerns about potential health risks. This study aimed to assess the levels of 19 HM/MTs in children living near a sugarcane mill through a pilot biomonitoring investigation. We investigated sex-related differences in these element levels and their correlations. A cross-sectional study was conducted, analyzing data from 20 children in the latter part of 2023. Spearman correlation coefficients with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the relationships between urinary HM/MT levels. Detectable levels of 17 out of the 19 HM/MTs were found across the entire study sample, with arsenic and copper detectable in 95% of the children. Titanium exhibited higher levels in boys compared to girls (p = 0.017). We identified 56 statistically significant correlations, with 51 of them being positive, while the remaining coefficients indicated negative relationships. This study characterized HM/MT levels in school-aged children residing near a sugarcane mill through a pilot biomonitoring investigation. Further research employing larger sample sizes and longitudinal assessments would enhance our understanding of the dynamics and health impacts of HM/MT exposure in this vulnerable population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Radioactive Substances)
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48 pages, 5365 KiB  
Review
Supramolecular Materials as Solid-Phase Microextraction Coatings in Environmental Analysis
by Nicolò Riboni, Erika Ribezzi, Federica Bianchi and Maria Careri
Molecules 2024, 29(12), 2802; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29122802 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) has been widely proposed for the extraction, clean-up, and preconcentration of analytes of environmental concern. Enrichment capabilities, preconcentration efficiency, sample throughput, and selectivity in extracting target compounds greatly depend on the materials used as SPME coatings. Supramolecular materials have emerged [...] Read more.
Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) has been widely proposed for the extraction, clean-up, and preconcentration of analytes of environmental concern. Enrichment capabilities, preconcentration efficiency, sample throughput, and selectivity in extracting target compounds greatly depend on the materials used as SPME coatings. Supramolecular materials have emerged as promising porous coatings to be used for the extraction of target compounds due to their unique selectivity, three-dimensional framework, flexible design, and possibility to promote the interaction between the analytes and the coating by means of multiple oriented functional groups. The present review will cover the state of the art of the last 5 years related to SPME coatings based on metal organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and supramolecular macrocycles used for environmental applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Solid-Phase Microextraction and Related Techniques)
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17 pages, 8225 KiB  
Article
Qualities and Quantities of Poultry Litter Biochar Characterization and Investigation
by Yulai Yang, Xuejun Qian, Samuel O. Alamu, Kayla Brown, Seong W. Lee and Dong-Hee Kang
Energies 2024, 17(12), 2885; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17122885 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Excessive land application of poultry litter (PL) may lead to surface runoff of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), which cause eutrophication, fish death, and water pollution that ultimately have negative effects on humans and animals. Increases in poultry production in the Delmarva Peninsula [...] Read more.
Excessive land application of poultry litter (PL) may lead to surface runoff of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), which cause eutrophication, fish death, and water pollution that ultimately have negative effects on humans and animals. Increases in poultry production in the Delmarva Peninsula underscore the need for more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable disposal technologies for processing PL instead of direct land application. The pyrolysis conversion process can potentially produce nutrient-rich poultry litter biochar (PLB), while the pyrolysis process can change the N and P to a more stable component, thus reducing its runoff. Pyrolysis also kills off any microorganisms that would otherwise trigger negative environmental health effects. This study is to apply an integrated method and investigate the effect of pyrolysis temperature (300 °C, 500 °C), poultry litter source (different feedstock composition), and bedding material mixture (10% pine shavings) on PLB qualities and quantities. Proximate and ultimate analysis showed PL sources and bedding material addition influenced the physicochemical properties of feedstock. The SEM and BET surface results indicate that pyrolysis temperature had a significant effect on changing the PLB morphology and structure, as well as the pH value (7.78 at 300 °C vs. 8.78 at 500 °C), extractable phosphorus (P) (18.73 ppm at 300 °C vs. 11.72 ppm at 500 °C), sulfur (S) (363 ppm at 300 °C vs. 344 ppm at 500 °C), and production yield of PLBs (47.65% at 300 °C vs. 60.62% at 500 °C). The results further suggest that adding a bedding material mixture (10% pine shavings) to PLs improved qualities by reducing the content of extractable P and S, as well as pH values of PLBs. This study also found the increment in both the pore volume and the area of Bethel Farm was higher than that of Sun Farm. Characterization and investigation of qualities and quantities of PLB using the integrated framework suggest that PL from Bethel Farm could produce better-quality PLB at a higher pyrolysis temperature and bedding material mixture to control N and P runoff problems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass and Bio-Energy—2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 526 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Off-Farm Employment Recession and Land on Farmers’ Mental Health: Empirical Evidence from Rural China
by Ziyu Wang, Qiran Zhao and Yueqing Ji
Land 2024, 13(6), 837; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13060837 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The agricultural land management under the household responsibility system (HRS) in rural China empowers farmers with land tenure rights, meeting the basic needs for their livelihoods and employment by cultivating the land. This paper investigates the pivotal role of agricultural cultivated land as [...] Read more.
The agricultural land management under the household responsibility system (HRS) in rural China empowers farmers with land tenure rights, meeting the basic needs for their livelihoods and employment by cultivating the land. This paper investigates the pivotal role of agricultural cultivated land as a social safety net, ensuring livelihood security for farmers confronting a recession in off-farm employment. Our analysis is based on data collected from six provinces (Heilongjiang, Henan, Zhejiang, Yunnan, Shandong, and Anhui) in the rural areas of China from 2019 to 2020. We investigated the impact of the off-farm employment recession on the mental health of farmers and the moderating effect of land as a social safety net on the relationship between the off-farm employment recession and mental health. The analysis points to the following results: (1) The majority of farmers have significantly reduced off-farm working time during employment recession. (2) The off-farm employment recession has worsened farmers’ mental health. (3) Farmers’ land assets through tenure rights provide both income and employment security functions, which can mitigate the adverse effects of the off-farm employment recession on their mental health. The findings of this study highlight the crucial role of land assets to reduce the negative impact of unemployment in the context of economic recession, emphasizing the significance of the policies supporting the land rights among vulnerable rural groups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land, Biodiversity, and Human Wellbeing)

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