The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
18 pages, 2890 KiB  
Article
The Derivation of an Empirical Model to Estimate the Power Spectral Density of Turbulent Boundary Layer Wall Pressure in Aircraft Using Machine Learning Regression Techniques
by Zachary Huffman and Joana Rocha
Aerospace 2024, 11(6), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11060446 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Aircraft cabin noise poses a health risk for regular passengers and crew, being connected to a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease, hearing loss, and sleep deprivation. At cruise conditions, its most significant cause is random pressure fluctuations in the turbulent boundary layer of [...] Read more.
Aircraft cabin noise poses a health risk for regular passengers and crew, being connected to a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease, hearing loss, and sleep deprivation. At cruise conditions, its most significant cause is random pressure fluctuations in the turbulent boundary layer of aircraft, and as such the derivation of an accurate model to predict the power spectral density of these fluctuations remains an important ongoing research topic. Early models (such as those by Lowson and Robertson) were derived by simplifying the governing equations, the Reynolds-averaged Navier Stokes equations, and solving for fluctuating pressure. Most subsequent equations were derived either by applying statistical and mathematical techniques to simplify the Robertson and Lowson models or by making modifications to address apparent shortcomings. Overall, these models have had varying success—most are accurate near the Mach and Reynolds numbers they were designed for, but less accurate under other conditions. In response to this shortcoming, Dominique demonstrated that a novel technique (machine learning, specifically artificial neural networking) could produce a model that is accurate under most flight conditions. This paper extends this research further by applying a different machine learning technique (nonlinear least squares regression analysis) and dimensional analysis to produce a new model. The resulting equation proved accurate under its design conditions of low airspeed (approximately 11 m/s) and low turbulent Reynolds number (approximately 850,000). However, a larger dataset with more diverse flight conditions would be required to make the model more generally applicable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Underwater Acoustics and Aeroacoustics)
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16 pages, 6292 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Complete Chloroplast Genomes of Rubus in China: Hypervariable Regions and Phylogenetic Relationships
by Yufen Xu, Yongquan Li, Yanzhao Chen, Longyuan Wang, Bine Xue, Xianzhi Zhang, Wenpei Song, Wei Guo and Wei Wu
Genes 2024, 15(6), 716; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15060716 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
With more than 200 species of native Rubus, China is considered a center of diversity for this genus. Due to a paucity of molecular markers, the phylogenetic relationships for this genus are poorly understood. In this study, we sequenced and assembled the [...] Read more.
With more than 200 species of native Rubus, China is considered a center of diversity for this genus. Due to a paucity of molecular markers, the phylogenetic relationships for this genus are poorly understood. In this study, we sequenced and assembled the plastomes of 22 out of 204 Chinese Rubus species (including varieties) from three of the eight sections reported in China, i.e., the sections Chamaebatus, Idaeobatus, and Malachobatus. Plastomes were annotated and comparatively analyzed with the inclusion of two published plastomes. The plastomes of all 24 Rubus species were composed of a large single-copy region (LSC), a small single-copy region (SSC), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs), and ranged in length from 155,464 to 156,506 bp. We identified 112 unique genes, including 79 protein-coding genes, 29 transfer RNAs, and four ribosomal RNAs. With highly consistent gene order, these Rubus plastomes showed strong collinearity, and no significant changes in IR boundaries were noted. Nine divergent hotspots were identified based on nucleotide polymorphism analysis: trnH-psbA, trnK-rps16, rps16-trnQ-psbK, petN-psbM, trnT-trnL, petA-psbJ, rpl16 intron, ndhF-trnL, and ycf1. Based on whole plastome sequences, we obtained a clearer phylogenetic understanding of these Rubus species. All sampled Rubus species formed a monophyletic group; however, sections Idaeobatus and Malachobatus were polyphyletic. These data and analyses demonstrate the phylogenetic utility of plastomes for systematic research within Rubus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Evolution of Plant Organelle Genome (Volume II))
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17 pages, 2906 KiB  
Article
Emission Factors of Tyre Wear Particles Emitted by Light Road Vehicles in Real Driving Conditions: A New Challenge for Clean Road Transport to Improve Urban Air Quality
by Salah Khardi
Atmosphere 2024, 15(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15060665 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Non-exhaust road transport emissions in cities contribute to poor air quality and have an impact on human health. This paper presents a new study of particles emitted by tyre wear in real driving conditions and gives their emission factors. The most frequently emitted [...] Read more.
Non-exhaust road transport emissions in cities contribute to poor air quality and have an impact on human health. This paper presents a new study of particles emitted by tyre wear in real driving conditions and gives their emission factors. The most frequently emitted particles were collected in urban, suburban and road areas. They were identified and analysed physically and chemically. Their level of toxicity is well known. An overall analysis of the measured pollutants was carried out to assess their emission factors in real driving situations. The highest emitting pollutants, considered separately, were found to have high emission factors. The values obtained exceed the Euro standard for vehicles but are below those of vehicles not equipped with particle filters. Significant test analysis confirmed that the inertia of chemical pollutants is homogeneous. Emission factors have also been provided for PM10 and PM2.5. These results should contribute to the emergence of future regulations of non-exhaust emissions and should help to analyse the exposure-impact relationship for particles from tyre wear. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Prospects for Air Quality Management in the 21st Century)
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21 pages, 324 KiB  
Review
The Role of Mitochondrial Copy Number in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Present Insights and Future Directions
by Annamaria Cerantonio, Luigi Citrigno, Beatrice Maria Greco, Selene De Benedittis, Giuseppe Passarino, Raffaele Maletta, Antonio Qualtieri, Alberto Montesanto, Patrizia Spadafora and Francesca Cavalcanti
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 6062; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25116062 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are progressive disorders that affect the central nervous system (CNS) and represent the major cause of premature death in the elderly. One of the possible determinants of neurodegeneration is the change in mitochondrial function and content. Altered levels of mitochondrial DNA [...] Read more.
Neurodegenerative diseases are progressive disorders that affect the central nervous system (CNS) and represent the major cause of premature death in the elderly. One of the possible determinants of neurodegeneration is the change in mitochondrial function and content. Altered levels of mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA-CN) in biological fluids have been reported during both the early stages and progression of the diseases. In patients affected by neurodegenerative diseases, changes in mtDNA-CN levels appear to correlate with mitochondrial dysfunction, cognitive decline, disease progression, and ultimately therapeutic interventions. In this review, we report the main results published up to April 2024, regarding the evaluation of mtDNA-CN levels in blood samples from patients affected by Alzheimer’s (AD), Parkinson’s (PD), and Huntington’s diseases (HD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim is to show a probable link between mtDNA-CN changes and neurodegenerative disorders. Understanding the causes underlying this association could provide useful information on the molecular mechanisms involved in neurodegeneration and offer the development of new diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions. Full article
18 pages, 5639 KiB  
Article
TYCOS: A Specialized Dataset for Typical Components of Satellites
by He Bian, Jianzhong Cao, Gaopeng Zhang, Zhe Zhang, Cheng Li and Junpeng Dong
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4757; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114757 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The successful detection of key components within satellites is a crucial prerequisite for executing on-orbit capture missions. Due to the inherent data-driven functionality, deep learning-based component detection algorithms rely heavily on the scale and quality of the dataset for their accuracy and robustness. [...] Read more.
The successful detection of key components within satellites is a crucial prerequisite for executing on-orbit capture missions. Due to the inherent data-driven functionality, deep learning-based component detection algorithms rely heavily on the scale and quality of the dataset for their accuracy and robustness. Nevertheless, existing satellite image datasets exhibit several deficiencies, such as the lack of satellite motion states, extreme illuminations, or occlusion of critical components, which severely hinder the performance of detection algorithms. In this work, we bridge the gap via the release of a novel dataset tailored for the detection of key components of satellites. Unlike the conventional datasets composed of synthetic images, the proposed Typical Components of Satellites (TYCOS) dataset comprises authentic photos captured in a simulated space environment. It encompasses three types of satellite, three types of key components, three types of illumination, and three types of motion state. Meanwhile, scenarios with occlusion in front of the satellite are also taken into consideration. On the basis of TYCOS, several state-of-the-art detection methods are employed in rigorous experiments followed by a comprehensive analysis, which further enhances the development of space scene perception and satellite safety. Full article
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22 pages, 4311 KiB  
Article
Drought-Tolerant Bacteria and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Mitigate the Detrimental Effects of Drought Stress Induced by Withholding Irrigation at Critical Growth Stages of Soybean (Glycine max, L.)
by Aya Ahmed Nader, Fathi I. A. Hauka, Aida H. Afify and Ahmed M. El-Sawah
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1123; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061123 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Considering current global climate change, drought stress is regarded as a major problem negatively impacting the growth of soybeans, particularly at the critical stages R3 (early pod) and R5 (seed development). Microbial inoculation is regarded as an ecologically friendly and low-cost-effective strategy for [...] Read more.
Considering current global climate change, drought stress is regarded as a major problem negatively impacting the growth of soybeans, particularly at the critical stages R3 (early pod) and R5 (seed development). Microbial inoculation is regarded as an ecologically friendly and low-cost-effective strategy for helping soybean plants withstand drought stress. The present study aimed to isolate newly drought-tolerant bacteria from native soil and evaluated their potential for producing growth-promoting substances as well as understanding how these isolated bacteria along with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) could mitigate drought stress in soybean plants at critical growth stages in a field experiment. In this study, 30 Bradyrhizobium isolates and 30 rhizobacterial isolates were isolated from the soybean nodules and rhizosphere, respectively. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 6000 was used for evaluating their tolerance to drought, and then the production of growth promotion substances was evaluated under both without/with PEG. The most effective isolates (DTB4 and DTR30) were identified genetically using 16S rRNA gene. A field experiment was conducted to study the impact of inoculation with DTB4 and DTR30 along with AMF (Glomus clarum, Funneliformis mosseae, and Gigaspora margarita) on the growth and yield of drought-stressed soybeans. Our results showed that the bioinoculant applications improved the growth traits (shoot length, root length, leaf area, and dry weight), chlorophyll content, nutrient content (N, P, and K), nodulation, and yield components (pods number, seeds weight, and grain yield) of soybean plants under drought stress (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, proline contents were decreased due to the bioinoculant applications under drought when compared to uninoculated treatments. As well as the count of bacteria, mycorrhizal colonization indices, and the activity of soil enzymes (dehydrogenase and phosphatase) were enhanced in the soybean rhizosphere under drought stress. This study’s findings imply that using a mixture of bioinoculants may help soybean plants withstand drought stress, particularly during critical growth stages, and that soybean growth, productivity, and soil microbial activity were improved under drought stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Microbe Interactions)
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20 pages, 282 KiB  
Article
Water Intrusion: An Analysis of Water Sources, Categories, and the Degradation Science of Building Materials
by Charles R. Norman, Kaysea L. Kelley, Colton Sanner, Sam Lueck, Jon Norman and Chuck Norrow
Water 2024, 16(11), 1576; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16111576 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Water intrusion into a building envelope describes the unwanted movement of water or vapor into a building, where it causes damage. Various factors dictate water intrusion category determination and classification. These factors include, but are not limited to, the type and degree of [...] Read more.
Water intrusion into a building envelope describes the unwanted movement of water or vapor into a building, where it causes damage. Various factors dictate water intrusion category determination and classification. These factors include, but are not limited to, the type and degree of water intrusion, the source and route of the contamination, and exposure time, as well as geographical environmental conditions. This comprehensive research paper looked at the literature and the science to explore the bases for indoor environmental professional (IEP) classification and category determination, but also the science behind the effects of water intrusion on building materials (BM). The efficacy of building materials once degradation has occurred and any accelerating effects impacting the efficiency of building materials and their loss of integrity were closely examined in terms of material microstructural and compositional changes. The damaging effects of moisture and heat on building materials are called hygrothermal damage, which compromises the properties and use of materials. Both aspects of building integrity, i.e., water intrusion and structural deterioration, should be of concern when mitigating and remediating the intrusion of moisture. Previous research on the clarification of water categories for water intrusions is lacking. Past approaches to water classification have lacked universal scientific clarity and understanding. In addition to a need to understand the effects that water category might have on building materials and their corresponding degree of degradation, more science and reviews are needed. The need for proper class and category determination for the remediation of water intrusion within buildings is the first step toward achieving correct mitigation to ensure human health and safety. The possible adverse health effects of water intrusion need focus and cohesion for the determination of categories. We know that the final determination of water categories differs according to the degree of contamination over time and the degree of a given class of water intrusion; however, what role do the route and initial water contamination play in the determination of the category? The following paper aims to provide not only a review of the science but also an elaboration of the category determination process and the degradation effects on building materials which should be considered, as well as possible avenues of scientific research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Quality Monitoring and Public Health)
15 pages, 4757 KiB  
Article
N-S-co-Doped Carbon Dot Blue Fluorescence Preparation and Baicalein Detection
by Yujia Cheng, Yan Huang and Guang Yu
Inorganics 2024, 12(6), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics12060154 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) have emerged as significant fluorescent nanomaterials due to their bright, stable fluorescence, good biocompatibility, facile synthesis, etc. They are widely used in various scientific and practical applications, particularly in combination with mesoporous, florescent, or magnetic nanomaterials to enhance their properties. [...] Read more.
Carbon dots (CDs) have emerged as significant fluorescent nanomaterials due to their bright, stable fluorescence, good biocompatibility, facile synthesis, etc. They are widely used in various scientific and practical applications, particularly in combination with mesoporous, florescent, or magnetic nanomaterials to enhance their properties. Recent research has focused on employing CDs and their composites in drug analysis, drug loading, biological imaging, disease diagnosis, and temperature sensing, with a growing interest in their biological and medical applications. In this study, we synthesized blue-fluorescent S, N-co-doped CDs (cys-CDs) using hydrothermal synthesis with L-cysteine and sodium citrate. These resulting cys-CD particles were approximately 3.8 nm in size and exhibited stable fluorescence with a quantum yield of 0.66. By leveraging the fluorescence quenching of the cys-CDs, we developed a rapid and sensitive method for baicalein detection, achieving high sensitivity in the low micromolar range with a detection limit for baicalein of 33 nM. Our investigation revealed that the fluorescence-quenching mechanism involved static quenching and inner-filter effect components. Overall, cys-CDs proved to be effective for accurate quantitative baicalein detection in real-world samples. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Application of Luminescent Materials)
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39 pages, 1809 KiB  
Review
EEG Data Analysis Techniques for Precision Removal and Enhanced Alzheimer’s Diagnosis: Focusing on Fuzzy and Intuitionistic Fuzzy Logic Techniques
by Mario Versaci and Fabio La Foresta
Signals 2024, 5(2), 343-381; https://doi.org/10.3390/signals5020018 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Effective management of EEG artifacts is pivotal for accurate neurological diagnostics, particularly in detecting early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This review delves into the cutting-edge domain of fuzzy logic techniques, emphasizing intuitionistic fuzzy systems, which offer refined handling of uncertainties inherent in EEG [...] Read more.
Effective management of EEG artifacts is pivotal for accurate neurological diagnostics, particularly in detecting early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This review delves into the cutting-edge domain of fuzzy logic techniques, emphasizing intuitionistic fuzzy systems, which offer refined handling of uncertainties inherent in EEG data. These methods not only enhance artifact identification and removal but also integrate seamlessly with other AI technologies to push the boundaries of EEG analysis. By exploring a range of approaches from standard protocols to advanced machine learning models, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of current strategies and emerging technologies in EEG artifact management. Notably, the fusion of fuzzy logic with neural network models illustrates significant advancements in distinguishing between genuine neurological activity and noise. This synthesis of technologies not only improves diagnostic accuracy but also enriches the toolset available to researchers and clinicians alike, facilitating earlier and more precise identification of neurodegenerative diseases. The review ultimately underscores the transformative potential of integrating diverse computational techniques, setting a new standard in EEG analysis and paving the way for future innovations in medical diagnostics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Signal Processing and Analytics of EEG Signals)
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20 pages, 1021 KiB  
Article
Depression Related to COVID-19, Coping, and Hopelessness in Sports Students
by Laura Rodica Giurgiu, Cosmin Damian, Anca Maria Sabău, Tudor Caciora and Floricica Mariana Călin
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(6), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14060563 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the impact of the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and physical states of sports students from Romania and also to compare the differences according to gender and the type of sport. Initially, in [...] Read more.
This study aimed to explore the impact of the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and physical states of sports students from Romania and also to compare the differences according to gender and the type of sport. Initially, in order to collect demographic data and health reports, a cross-sectional survey was developed to evaluate the emotional needs of sports students during the pandemic. After the second wave, the coping strategies used by the participants to fight negative emotions were assessed using the CERQ questionnaire. The results indicate that depression symptoms are the most reported psychological issues among the participants and that there are differences according to gender concerning the cognitive schemas they use in order to reduce the symptoms. Also, it was found that there are differences, corresponding to the type of sport, in choosing adaptive coping mechanisms. Ultimately, it was confirmed that higher levels of hopelessness among sports students are associated with increased vulnerability to substance use, with the correlation between those two indicators being strong. Delving deeper into this relationship can help identify critical points for intervention to prevent substance abuse. At the same time, the dichotomic analysis of the results found as moderators—the gender and the type of sport in decreasing the severity of depression could be an important aspect of the next counseling interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effect of COVID-19 on Youth Mental Health)
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13 pages, 2224 KiB  
Article
An Integrated Strategy Based on 10-DAB Extraction and In Situ Whole-Cell Biotransformation of Renewable Taxus Needles to Produce Baccatin III
by Ping Kou, Yingying Yu, He Wang, Yuchi Zhang, Zhaoxia Jin and Fang Yu
Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2586; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112586 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Baccatin III is a crucial precursor in the biosynthesis pathway of paclitaxel. Its main sources are extraction from Taxus or chemical synthesis using 10-deacetylbaccatin III (10-DAB) as substrate. However, these preparation approaches exhibit serious limitations, including the low content of baccatin III in [...] Read more.
Baccatin III is a crucial precursor in the biosynthesis pathway of paclitaxel. Its main sources are extraction from Taxus or chemical synthesis using 10-deacetylbaccatin III (10-DAB) as substrate. However, these preparation approaches exhibit serious limitations, including the low content of baccatin III in Taxus and the complicated steps of chemical synthesis. Heterologous expression of 10-deacetylbaccatin III-10-O-acetyltransferase (TcDBAT) in microbial strains for biotransformation of 10-DAB is a promising alternative strategy for baccatin III production. Here, the promotion effects of glycerol supply and slightly acidic conditions with a low-temperature on the catalysis of recombinant TcDBAT strain were clarified using 10-DAB as substrate. Taxus needles is renewable and the content of 10-DAB is relatively high, it can be used as an effective source of the catalytic substrate 10-DAB. Baccatin III was synthesized by integrating the extraction of 10-DAB from renewable Taxus needles and in situ whole-cell catalysis in this study. 40 g/L needles were converted into 20.66 mg/L baccatin III by optimizing and establishing a whole-cell catalytic bioprocess. The method used in this study can shorten the production process of Taxus extraction for baccatin III synthesis and provide a reliable strategy for the efficient production of baccatin III by recombinant strains and the improvement of resource utilization rate of Taxus needles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
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23 pages, 17185 KiB  
Article
Defining Inner-City Transitional Street Typology Using Point of Interest (PoI) Data in Hillside Cities of China
by Xiao He, Marek Kozlowski, Norsidah Binti Ujang and Yue Ma
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4690; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114690 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Transitional streets serve as intermediary spaces between the Central Business Districts (CBDs) and surrounding residential areas, offering diverse functions and activities within urban interiors. However, a practical methodology for accurately classifying these streets has been lacking, due primarily to transitional areas’ spatial constraints [...] Read more.
Transitional streets serve as intermediary spaces between the Central Business Districts (CBDs) and surrounding residential areas, offering diverse functions and activities within urban interiors. However, a practical methodology for accurately classifying these streets has been lacking, due primarily to transitional areas’ spatial constraints and functional complexities. This study leverages Point of Interest (PoI) data from 2023 to develop an innovative methodological framework that addresses these challenges. This framework analyses transitional streets’ functional distribution and typology, employing PoI frequency density and functional type ratios to identify and classify functional zones. It generally delineates eight main types of transitional streets in the CBD of Chongqing, a prototypical hillside city. Utilising advanced data technology from internet maps, this research pioneers new approaches for identifying and analysing the functionality of transitional streets. The findings underscore the effectiveness of PoI data in precisely recognising the functional types of transitional streets, thereby providing a robust theoretical and practical foundation for the in-depth study of transitional streets. Moreover, the results enhance urban spatial planning in hillside cities of China, effectively demonstrating the advantages of PoI data in defining street typology compared to traditional methods. This approach provides a more detailed understanding of urban functional dynamics by allowing for a more nuanced data analysis of street functions. Full article
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20 pages, 8807 KiB  
Article
Coral Shoals Detection from Optical Satellite Imagery Using Deep Belief Network Algorithm: A Case Study for the Xisha Islands, South China Sea
by Xiaomin Li, Yi Ma and Jie Zhang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(6), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12060922 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Coral islands and reefs are formed by the cementation of the remains of shallow water reef-building coral polyps and other reef dwelling organisms in tropical oceans. They can be divided into coral islands, coral sandbanks, coral reefs, and coral shoals, of which, Coral [...] Read more.
Coral islands and reefs are formed by the cementation of the remains of shallow water reef-building coral polyps and other reef dwelling organisms in tropical oceans. They can be divided into coral islands, coral sandbanks, coral reefs, and coral shoals, of which, Coral shoals are located below the depth datum and are not exposed even at low tide, and sometimes are distributed at water depths exceeding 30 m. Satellite images with wide spatial–temporal coverage have played a crucial role in coral island and reef monitoring, and remote sensing data with multiple platforms, sensors, and spatial and spectral resolutions are employed. However, the accurate detection of coral shoals remains challenging mainly due to the depth effect, that is, coral shoals, especially deeper ones, have very similar spectral characteristics to the sea in optical images. Here, an optical remote sensing detection method is proposed to rapidly and accurately detect the coral shoals using a deep belief network (DBN) from optical satellite imagery. The median filter is used to filter the DBN classification results, and the appropriate filtering window is selected according to the spatial resolution of the optical images. The proposed method demonstrated outstanding performance by validating and comparing the detection results of the Yinli Shoal. Moreover, the expected results are obtained by applying this method to other coral shoals in the Xisha Islands, including the Binmei Shoal, Beibianlang, Zhanhan Shoal, Shanhudong Shoal, and Yongnan Shoal. This detection method is expected to provide the coral shoals’ information rapidly once optical satellite images are available and cloud cover and tropical cyclones are satisfactory. The further integration of the detection results of coral shoals with water depth and other information can effectively ensure the safe navigation of ships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Marine Remote Sensing Applications)
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15 pages, 6699 KiB  
Article
Predicting the Potential Risk Area of the Invasive Plant Galinsoga parviflora in Tibet Using the MaxEnt Model
by Junwei Wang, Zhefei Zeng, Yonghao Chen and Qiong La
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4689; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114689 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The Tibetan plateau, with complex and diverse ecosystems, is an important ecological security barrier to China. However, climate change and the spread of invasive plant species have imperiled the once pristine and diverse ecosystem of the region. To prevent the further spread and [...] Read more.
The Tibetan plateau, with complex and diverse ecosystems, is an important ecological security barrier to China. However, climate change and the spread of invasive plant species have imperiled the once pristine and diverse ecosystem of the region. To prevent the further spread and control of invasive plants, it is important to delineate the potential distribution patterns of alien invasive plants at the regional scale across Tibet and understand their responses to climate change. Galinsoga parviflora Cav., a member of the family Asteraceae, is an annual herbaceous plant distributed globally as an invasive weed and possesses characteristics that make it highly invasive, such as a strong ability to proliferate and disperse. The species is also known to have an allelopathic effect. There has been no report on the spatial distribution of G. parviflora in Tibet. Using field survey data, we investigated the risk of G. parviflora invasion and its impacts on the ecological safety of Tibet. We employed the MaxEnt model using the R language and SPSS software to optimize and select model parameters and data. We acquired various environmental variables along with current and future climate change scenarios (two carbon emission scenarios, SSP126 and SSP585, for the years 2050 and 2090) to predict the geographic distribution and potential risk areas in Tibet that G. parviflora can invade. The MaxEnt model accurately predicted the distribution of G. parviflora in Tibet with an average AUC of 0.985. The most suitable environmental conditions in which G. parviflora performed the best in Tibet included a mean annual temperature of 6.2–10.0 °C and an elevation range of 2672–3744 m above sea level. Our results indicate that low precipitation during the coldest quarter of the year (mean temperature −2–3 °C) was the most important variable predicting G. parviflora distribution. The results also showed that the species was hardly found when precipitation in the coldest quarter exceeded 155 mm. The current potential invasion risk areas for G. parviflora included the river valleys of central, southeastern, and eastern Tibet. With future climate change scenarios (i.e., SSP126, SSP585), the suitable habitats for G. parviflora distribution will likely shift to northwest regions from the southeast. Particularly under the highest carbon emission scenario (i.e., SSP585), the potential risk area expands more rapidly, and the center of distribution shifts to northwest regions. These findings provide useful information about the current and future changes in G. parviflora distribution in Tibet, which is crucial for the comprehensive and proactive management and control of G. parviflora under future climate change. Full article
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18 pages, 4513 KiB  
Article
Combined Analytic Hierarchy Process and Weighted Interval Method Models for the Geological Evaluation of CO2 Storage in Coal Goaf
by Dongzhuang Hou, Yifei Xiao, Lang Liu and Chao Huan
Energies 2024, 17(11), 2672; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112672 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The increasing concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is a major factor contributing to climate change. CO2 storage in coal goaf is a convenient, effective, and economical solution. Methods to quickly and effectively evaluate geological conditions are urgently required. The main [...] Read more.
The increasing concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is a major factor contributing to climate change. CO2 storage in coal goaf is a convenient, effective, and economical solution. Methods to quickly and effectively evaluate geological conditions are urgently required. The main influencing factors are geological safety, storage potential, economics, and environmental protection; these include 4 aspects, 38 indexes, and 4 index levels that can be quantified using classification levels. We established a geological evaluation model, using analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and weighted interval methods. AHP was used to determine its elements, indicators, and inter-layer relationships, as well as to clarify its structural relationships. The weight interval method is used to evaluate unstable elements, reducing their difficulty, and constant values are used to assign weights of stable elements to increase accuracy. This model was applied to assess the suitability of the goaf in Yaojie mine for geological CO2 storage. The results revealed that this goaf is an above average CO2 storage space, which was consistent with previous research. This geological CO2 storage evaluation model may also be used to assess the CO2 storage suitability of other coal goafs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Carbon Capture and Storage and Renewable Energy Systems)
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23 pages, 1096 KiB  
Review
Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Based Products: Challenges and Clinical Therapeutic Options
by Debora B. Mello, Fernanda Cristina Paccola Mesquita, Danúbia Silva dos Santos, Karina Dutra Asensi, Marlon Lemos Dias, Antonio Carlos Campos de Carvalho, Regina Coeli dos Santos Goldenberg and Tais Hanae Kasai-Brunswick
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 6063; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25116063 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-based advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) are being tried in a vast range of clinical applications. These cells can be isolated from different donor tissues by using several methods, or they can even be derived from induced pluripotent stem cells [...] Read more.
Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-based advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) are being tried in a vast range of clinical applications. These cells can be isolated from different donor tissues by using several methods, or they can even be derived from induced pluripotent stem cells or embryonic stem cells. However, ATMP heterogeneity may impact product identity and potency, and, consequently, clinical trial outcomes. In this review, we discuss these topics and the need to establish minimal criteria regarding the manufacturing of MSCs so that these innovative therapeutics may be better positioned to contribute to the advancement of regenerative medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Mesenchymal Stem Cells)
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22 pages, 21441 KiB  
Article
Development of a Proof-of-Concept A-DInSAR-Based Monitoring Service for Land Subsidence
by Margherita Righini, Roberta Bonì, Serena Sapio, Ignacio Gatti, Marco Salvadore and Andrea Taramelli
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(11), 1981; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16111981 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The increasing availability of SAR images and processing results over wide areas determines the need for systematic procedures to extract the information from this dataset and exploit the enhanced quality of the displacement time series. The aim of the study is to propose [...] Read more.
The increasing availability of SAR images and processing results over wide areas determines the need for systematic procedures to extract the information from this dataset and exploit the enhanced quality of the displacement time series. The aim of the study is to propose a new pre-operational workflow of an A-DInSAR-based land subsidence monitoring and interpretation service. The workflow is tested in Turano Lodigiano (Lombardy region, Italy) using COSMO-SkyMed data, processed using the SqueeSAR™ algorithm, and covering the time span from 2016 to 2019. The test site is a representative peri-urban area of the Po plain susceptible to land subsidence. The results give insight about new value-added products and enable non-expert users to exploit the potential of the interferometric results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspective of InSAR Data Time Series Analysis)
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12 pages, 1097 KiB  
Article
Occupational Exposure to Metal-Based Nanomaterials: A Possible Relationship between Chemical Composition and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers
by Valeria Bellisario, Giacomo Garzaro, Giulia Squillacioti, Marco Panizzolo, Federica Ghelli, Giuseppe Mariella, Roberto Bono, Irina Guseva Canu and Enrico Bergamaschi
Antioxidants 2024, 13(6), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13060676 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Nanomaterials (NMs) are in high demand for a wide range of practical applications; however, comprehensively understanding the toxicity of these materials is a complex challenge, due to the limited availability of epidemiological evidence on the human health effects arising from workplace exposures. The [...] Read more.
Nanomaterials (NMs) are in high demand for a wide range of practical applications; however, comprehensively understanding the toxicity of these materials is a complex challenge, due to the limited availability of epidemiological evidence on the human health effects arising from workplace exposures. The aim of this work is to assess whether and how urinary metal concentrations could be reliable and useful in NM biomonitoring. In the framework of “NanoExplore Project” [EU LIFE17 Grant ENV/GR/000285], 43 not-exposed subjects and 40 exposed workers were recruited to measure exposure to NMs (PCN and LDSA) in the proximity of the workstations and biological biomarkers (urinary metal concentrations—Aluminum (Al), Silica (Si), Titanium (Ti), and Chromium (Cr); urinary OS biomarkers—TAP, Isop, and MDA). The results showed that Si and Ti were directly associated with NM exposure (both PCN and LDSA), as well as with OS biomarkers, especially in exposed workers. Moreover, the mediation analyses showed that Si could account for about 2.8% in the relationship between LDSA and OS biomarkers, possibly by decreasing OS antioxidant defenses in exposed people. In conclusion, our study provides evidence that occupational exposure to mixtures containing NMs can represent an underestimated hazard for exposed people, increasing the body burden and the oxidative balance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress Induced by Air Pollution)
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12 pages, 5206 KiB  
Article
Ultrafast Detection of Arsenic Using Carbon-Fiber Microelectrodes and Fast-Scan Cyclic Voltammetry
by Noel Manring, Miriam Strini, Gene Koifman, Jonathan Xavier, Jessica L. Smeltz and Pavithra Pathirathna
Micromachines 2024, 15(6), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15060733 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Arsenic contamination poses a significant public health risk worldwide, with chronic exposure leading to various health issues. Detecting and monitoring arsenic exposure accurately remains challenging, necessitating the development of sensitive detection methods. In this study, we introduce a novel approach using fast-scan cyclic [...] Read more.
Arsenic contamination poses a significant public health risk worldwide, with chronic exposure leading to various health issues. Detecting and monitoring arsenic exposure accurately remains challenging, necessitating the development of sensitive detection methods. In this study, we introduce a novel approach using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) coupled with carbon-fiber microelectrodes (CFMs) for the electrochemical detection of As3+. Through an in-depth pH study using tris buffer, we optimized the electrochemical parameters for both acidic and basic media. Our sensor demonstrated high selectivity, distinguishing the As3+ signal from those of As5+ and other potential interferents under ambient conditions. We achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.5 μM (37.46 ppb) and a sensitivity of 2.292 nA/μM for bare CFMs. Microscopic data confirmed the sensor’s stability at lower, physiologically relevant concentrations. Additionally, using our previously reported double-bore CFMs, we simultaneously detected As3+-Cu2+ and As3+-Cd2+ in tris buffer, enhancing the LOD of As3+ to 0.2 μM (14.98 ppb). To our knowledge, this is the first study to use CFMs for the rapid and selective detection of As3+ via FSCV. Our sensor’s ability to distinguish As3+ from As5+ in a physiologically relevant pH environment showcases its potential for future in vivo studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Voltammetric Sensors)
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24 pages, 1374 KiB  
Article
Organizational Resilience and the Attention-Based View of the Firm—Empirical Evidence from German SMEs
by Max M. Weber and Peter Kokott
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4691; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114691 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The need for organizations to increase resilience is still growing, not least because of economic crises, such as the 2007–2009 global financial crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and supply shortages in raw material procurement combined with rising commodity costs and energy prices. We use [...] Read more.
The need for organizations to increase resilience is still growing, not least because of economic crises, such as the 2007–2009 global financial crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and supply shortages in raw material procurement combined with rising commodity costs and energy prices. We use an attention-based view approach as a theoretical lens to investigate the shift in management’s attention due to a crisis, with a particular focus on working capital management (WCM) as a decisive finance tool. In addition, we examine how management’s attention shifts to organizational resilience (OR). We also analyze how managers’ cognitive flexibility (CF), which reflects their ability to anticipate and quickly adapt, moderates the change in attention. By surveying 307 top and middle managers in German small- and medium-sized enterprises, we measure the crisis effect on the shift in managerial attention to WCM and OR. In addition, we measure managers’ CF and examine the contribution of these individual characteristics in the context of WCM and OR. Our mediation model reveals a positive, indirect-only effect of the crisis on the shift in management attention to OR mediated by the shift in management attention to WCM. In addition, our results show that managers’ CF negatively moderates the effect between managerial focus shifts to WCM and to OR. Our study’s results deepen the understanding of the importance of managers’ CF in times of crisis and the impact of CF on sales development, suggesting that managers’ CF may influence the link between the focal characteristics of WCM and OR. Full article
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4 pages, 1255 KiB  
Editorial
Innovations in Phenotyping and Diagnostics Create Opportunities for Improved Treatment and Genetic Counseling for Rare Diseases
by Miles D. Thompson
Genes 2024, 15(6), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15060715 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Genetic counseling and treatment options for rare developmental disabilities (DDs) have been revolutionized by the opportunities made possible by using massively parallel sequencing for diagnostic purposes [...] Full article
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17 pages, 5477 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Bacterial Information of Biofilms and Activated Sludge in Full-Scale MBBR-IFAS Systems
by Xiaolin Zhou, Haicheng Liu, Xing Fan, Xuyi Wang, Xuejun Bi, Lihua Cheng, Shujuan Huang, Fangchao Zhao and Tang Yang
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1121; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061121 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This study extensively analyzed the bacterial information of biofilms and activated sludge in oxic reactors of full-scale moving bed biofilm reactor-integrated fixed-film activated sludge (MBBR-IFAS) systems. The bacterial communities of biofilms and activated sludge differed statistically (R = 0.624, p < 0.01). The [...] Read more.
This study extensively analyzed the bacterial information of biofilms and activated sludge in oxic reactors of full-scale moving bed biofilm reactor-integrated fixed-film activated sludge (MBBR-IFAS) systems. The bacterial communities of biofilms and activated sludge differed statistically (R = 0.624, p < 0.01). The denitrifying genera Ignavibacterium, Phaeodactylibacter, Terrimonas, and Arcobacter were more abundant in activated sludge (p < 0.05), while comammox Nitrospira was more abundant in biofilms (p < 0.05), with an average relative abundance of 8.13%. Nitrospira and Nitrosomonas had weak co-occurrence relationships with other genera in the MBBR-IFAS systems. Potential function analysis revealed no differences in pathways at levels 1 and 2 based on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) between biofilms and activated sludge. However, in terms of pathways at level 3, biofilms had more potential in 26 pathways, including various organic biodegradation and membrane and signal transportation pathways. In comparison, activated sludge had more potential in only five pathways, including glycan biosynthesis and metabolism. With respect to nitrogen metabolism, biofilms had greater potential for nitrification (ammonia oxidation) (M00528), and complete nitrification (comammox) (M00804) concretely accounted for methane/ammonia monooxygenase (K10944, K10945, and K10946) and hydroxylamine dehydrogenase (K10535). This study provides a theoretical basis for MBBR-IFAS systems from the perspective of microorganisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Biotechnology)
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12 pages, 1925 KiB  
Article
Explainable Precision Medicine in Breast MRI: A Combined Radiomics and Deep Learning Approach for the Classification of Contrast Agent Uptake
by Sylwia Nowakowska, Karol Borkowski, Carlotta Ruppert, Patryk Hejduk, Alexander Ciritsis, Anna Landsmann, Magda Marcon, Nicole Berger, Andreas Boss and Cristina Rossi
Bioengineering 2024, 11(6), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11060556 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
In DCE-MRI, the degree of contrast uptake in normal fibroglandular tissue, i.e., background parenchymal enhancement (BPE), is a crucial biomarker linked to breast cancer risk and treatment outcome. In accordance with the Breast Imaging Reporting & Data System (BI-RADS), it should be visually [...] Read more.
In DCE-MRI, the degree of contrast uptake in normal fibroglandular tissue, i.e., background parenchymal enhancement (BPE), is a crucial biomarker linked to breast cancer risk and treatment outcome. In accordance with the Breast Imaging Reporting & Data System (BI-RADS), it should be visually classified into four classes. The susceptibility of such an assessment to inter-reader variability highlights the urgent need for a standardized classification algorithm. In this retrospective study, the first post-contrast subtraction images for 27 healthy female subjects were included. The BPE was classified slice-wise by two expert radiologists. The extraction of radiomic features from segmented BPE was followed by dataset splitting and dimensionality reduction. The latent representations were then utilized as inputs to a deep neural network classifying BPE into BI-RADS classes. The network’s predictions were elucidated at the radiomic feature level with Shapley values. The deep neural network achieved a BPE classification accuracy of 84 ± 2% (p-value < 0.00001). Most of the misclassifications involved adjacent classes. Different radiomic features were decisive for the prediction of each BPE class underlying the complexity of the decision boundaries. A highly precise and explainable pipeline for BPE classification was achieved without user- or algorithm-dependent radiomic feature selection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Breast Cancer Imaging)
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