The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
13 pages, 2421 KiB  
Article
Age, Growth, and Otolith Morphometrics of Trachinus draco (L., 1758) and Trachinus radiatus (Cuvier, 1829) in the Eastern Mediterranean
by Vasiliki Nikiforidou, Chryssi Mytilineou, Athanasios Alexandropoulos and Aikaterini Anastasopoulou
Fishes 2024, 9(5), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9050152 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Trachinus draco and Trachinus radiatus are two bycatch species of low commercial value and no sufficient knowledge on their biological features. In the present study, the weight–length relationship, age, growth, and ten otolith morphometric variables of these species were investigated in the southwestern [...] Read more.
Trachinus draco and Trachinus radiatus are two bycatch species of low commercial value and no sufficient knowledge on their biological features. In the present study, the weight–length relationship, age, growth, and ten otolith morphometric variables of these species were investigated in the southwestern Aegean Sea for the first time. Positive allometric and isometric growth in the weight were defined in T. draco and T. radiatus. The weight–length relationship was described by the parameters α = 0.002415 and b = 3.35745 in T. draco and α = 0.007582 and b = 3.09452 in T. radiatus. The von Bertalanffy growth function parameters were L = 44.51 cm, k = 0.15 year−1, and t0 = −1.31 years for T. draco and L = 58.47 cm, k = 0.16 year−1, and t0 = −0.78 years for T. radiatus. Ten otolith variables (radius, length, width, area, perimeter, roundness, circularity, form factor, rectangularity, and ellipticity) showed a significant relationship with size for both species, except the ellipticity in T. radiatus. The mean values of all the otolith variables were higher in T. radiatus than in T. draco. The otolith of T. radiatus was found to become more rectangular with size as compared to the otolith of T. radiatus. The results of this work can support further research on the behavioral and ecological features of the two species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Ecology)
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21 pages, 501 KiB  
Review
Promoting Artificial Intelligence for Global Breast Cancer Risk Prediction and Screening in Adult Women: A Scoping Review
by Lea Sacca, Diana Lobaina, Sara Burgoa, Kathryn Lotharius, Elijah Moothedan, Nathan Gilmore, Justin Xie, Ryan Mohler, Gabriel Scharf, Michelle Knecht and Panagiota Kitsantas
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2525; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092525 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can be applied in breast cancer risk prediction and prevention by using patient history, scans, imaging information, and analysis of specific genes for cancer classification to reduce overdiagnosis and overtreatment. This scoping review aimed to identify the barriers [...] Read more.
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can be applied in breast cancer risk prediction and prevention by using patient history, scans, imaging information, and analysis of specific genes for cancer classification to reduce overdiagnosis and overtreatment. This scoping review aimed to identify the barriers encountered in applying innovative AI techniques and models in developing breast cancer risk prediction scores and promoting screening behaviors among adult females. Findings may inform and guide future global recommendations for AI application in breast cancer prevention and care for female populations. Methods: The PRISMA-SCR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) was used as a reference checklist throughout this study. The Arksey and O’Malley methodology was used as a framework to guide this review. The framework methodology consisted of five steps: (1) Identify research questions; (2) Search for relevant studies; (3) Selection of studies relevant to the research questions; (4) Chart the data; (5) Collate, summarize, and report the results. Results: In the field of breast cancer risk detection and prevention, the following AI techniques and models have been applied: Machine and Deep Learning Model (ML-DL model) (n = 1), Academic Algorithms (n = 2), Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium (BCSC), Clinical 5-Year Risk Prediction Model (n = 2), deep-learning computer vision AI algorithms (n = 2), AI-based thermal imaging solution (Thermalytix) (n = 1), RealRisks (n = 2), Breast Cancer Risk NAVIgation (n = 1), MammoRisk (ML-Based Tool) (n = 1), Various MLModels (n = 1), and various machine/deep learning, decision aids, and commercial algorithms (n = 7). In the 11 included studies, a total of 39 barriers to AI applications in breast cancer risk prediction and screening efforts were identified. The most common barriers in the application of innovative AI tools for breast cancer prediction and improved screening rates included lack of external validity and limited generalizability (n = 6), as AI was used in studies with either a small sample size or datasets with missing data. Many studies (n = 5) also encountered selection bias due to exclusion of certain populations based on characteristics such as race/ethnicity, family history, or past medical history. Several recommendations for future research should be considered. AI models need to include a broader spectrum and more complete predictive variables for risk assessment. Investigating long-term outcomes with improved follow-up periods is critical to assess the impacts of AI on clinical decisions beyond just the immediate outcomes. Utilizing AI to improve communication strategies at both a local and organizational level can assist in informed decision-making and compliance, especially in populations with limited literacy levels. Conclusions: The use of AI in patient education and as an adjunctive tool for providers is still early in its incorporation, and future research should explore the implementation of AI-driven resources to enhance understanding and decision-making regarding breast cancer screening, especially in vulnerable populations with limited literacy. Full article
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28 pages, 3351 KiB  
Review
Biomedical Trends in Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogels with Emphasis on Chitosan-Based Formulations
by Weronika Kruczkowska, Julia Gałęziewska, Katarzyna Grabowska, Gabriela Liese, Paulina Buczek, Karol Kamil Kłosiński, Mateusz Kciuk, Zbigniew Pasieka, Żaneta Kałuzińska-Kołat and Damian Kołat
Gels 2024, 10(5), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10050295 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Biomedicine is constantly evolving to ensure a significant and positive impact on healthcare, which has resulted in innovative and distinct requisites such as hydrogels. Chitosan-based formulations stand out for their versatile utilization in drug encapsulation, transport, and controlled release, which is complemented by [...] Read more.
Biomedicine is constantly evolving to ensure a significant and positive impact on healthcare, which has resulted in innovative and distinct requisites such as hydrogels. Chitosan-based formulations stand out for their versatile utilization in drug encapsulation, transport, and controlled release, which is complemented by their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-immunogenic nature. Stimuli-responsive hydrogels, also known as smart hydrogels, have strictly regulated release patterns since they respond and adapt based on various external stimuli. Moreover, they can imitate the intrinsic tissues’ mechanical, biological, and physicochemical properties. These characteristics allow stimuli-responsive hydrogels to provide cutting-edge, effective, and safe treatment. Constant progress in the field necessitates an up-to-date summary of current trends and breakthroughs in the biomedical application of stimuli-responsive chitosan-based hydrogels, which was the aim of this review. General data about hydrogels sensitive to ions, pH, redox potential, light, electric field, temperature, and magnetic field are recapitulated. Additionally, formulations responsive to multiple stimuli are mentioned. Focusing on chitosan-based smart hydrogels, their multifaceted utilization was thoroughly described. The vast application spectrum encompasses neurological disorders, tumors, wound healing, and dermal infections. Available data on smart chitosan hydrogels strongly support the idea that current approaches and developing novel solutions are worth improving. The present paper constitutes a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in the currently evolving field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Chitosan Hydrogels)
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4 pages, 200 KiB  
Editorial
Special Issue “Molecular and Genetic Aspects of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19 Disease”
by Fernando Cardona and Jordi Pérez-Tur
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4670; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094670 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
We are pleased to present the first and second editions of this Special Issue, titled “Molecular and Genetic Aspects of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19 Disease”, of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences [...] Full article
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8 pages, 10169 KiB  
Case Report
Rare Orbital Involvement Originating from Extranodal Marginal Zone Lymphoma
by Yao-Chang Wen, Tzu-Chuan Huang, Wen-Chiuan Tsai and Shiue-Wei Lai
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050706 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Ocular adnexa region (OAR) primary lymphomas are uncommon, accounting for 1–2% of non-Hodgkin lymphomas and 8% of extranodal lymphomas. Extranodal marginal zone lymphoma (EMZL) originates from several epithelial tissues, including the stomach, salivary gland, lung, small intestine, thyroid gland, and ocular adnexa region. [...] Read more.
Ocular adnexa region (OAR) primary lymphomas are uncommon, accounting for 1–2% of non-Hodgkin lymphomas and 8% of extranodal lymphomas. Extranodal marginal zone lymphoma (EMZL) originates from several epithelial tissues, including the stomach, salivary gland, lung, small intestine, thyroid gland, and ocular adnexa region. Here, we report a 66-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with EMZL of OAR. In consideration of the possible side effect of radiotherapy, such as conjunctivitis, visual acuity impairment, and even retinal complications, she received six cycles of triweekly targeted chemotherapy with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone (R-CVP) without radiotherapy. Then, she remained in complete remission up to the present day. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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13 pages, 1351 KiB  
Article
Fodinisporobacter ferrooxydans gen. nov., sp. nov.—A Spore-Forming Ferrous-Oxidizing Bacterium Isolated from a Polymetallic Mine
by Zhen Jiang, Xiutong Li, Zonglin Liang, Zebao Tan, Nan Zhou, Ying Liu, Zhenghua Liu, Huaqun Yin, Kun Luo, Supawadee Ingsriswang, Shuangjiang Liu and Chengying Jiang
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050853 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
A novel acidophilic, aerobic bacterium strain, MYW30-H2T, was isolated from a heap of polymetallic mine. Cells of strain MYW30-H2T were Gram-stain-positive, endospore-forming, motile, and rod-shaped. Strain MYW30-H2T grew at a temperature range of 30–45 °C (optimum 40 °C) and [...] Read more.
A novel acidophilic, aerobic bacterium strain, MYW30-H2T, was isolated from a heap of polymetallic mine. Cells of strain MYW30-H2T were Gram-stain-positive, endospore-forming, motile, and rod-shaped. Strain MYW30-H2T grew at a temperature range of 30–45 °C (optimum 40 °C) and a pH range of 3.5–6.0 (optimum 4.0) in the presence of 0–0.5% (w/v) NaCl. Strain MYW30-H2T could grow heterotrophically on yeast extract and glucose, and grow mixotrophically using ferrous iron as an electron donor with yeast extract. Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) was the sole respiratory quinone of the strain. Iso-C15:0 and anteiso-C15:0 were the major cellular fatty acids. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that MYW30-H2T was phylogenetically affiliated with the family Alicyclobacillaceae, and the sequence similarity with other Alicyclobacillaceae genera species was below 91.51%. The average amino acid identity value of the strain with its phylogenetically related species was 52.3–62.1%, which fell into the genus boundary range. The DNA G+C content of the strain was 44.2%. Based on physiological and phylogenetic analyses, strain MYW30-H2T represents a novel species of a new genus of the family Alicyclobacillaceae, for which the name Fodinisporobacter ferrooxydans gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is MYW30-H2T (=CGMCC 1.17422T = KCTC 43278T). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into the Diversity and Characterization of Extremophiles)
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17 pages, 5194 KiB  
Article
Naïve Inflammatory Proteome Profiles of Glucocorticoid Responsive Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Rheumatic Arthritis Patients—Links to Triggers and Proteomic Manifestations
by Allan Stensballe, Jacob Skallerup Andersen, Christopher Aboo, Anders Borg Andersen, Jie Ren, Michael Kruse Meyer, Kate Lykke Lambertsen and Peter Derek Christian Leutscher
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(5), 449; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14050449 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology, sharing symptoms with giant cell arthritis (GCA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The pathogenic inflammatory roots are still not well understood, and there is a lack of extensive biomarker studies to explain the disease [...] Read more.
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology, sharing symptoms with giant cell arthritis (GCA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The pathogenic inflammatory roots are still not well understood, and there is a lack of extensive biomarker studies to explain the disease debut and post-acute phase. This study aimed to deeply analyze the serum proteome and inflammatory response of PMR patients before and after glucocorticoid treatment. We included treatment-naïve PMR patients, collecting samples before and after 3 months of treatment. For comparison, disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)-naïve RA patients were included and matched to healthy controls (CTL). The serum proteome was examined using label-free quantitative mass spectrometry, while inflammation levels were assessed using multiplex inflammatory cytokine and cell-free DNA assays. The serum proteomes of the four groups comprised acute phase reactants, coagulation factors, complement proteins, immunoglobulins, and apolipoproteins. Serum amyloid A (SAA1) was significantly reduced by active PMR treatment. Cell-free DNA levels in PMR and RA groups were significantly higher than in healthy controls due to acute inflammation. Complement factors had minimal changes post-treatment. The individual serum proteome in PMR patients showed over 100 abundantly variable proteins, emphasizing the systemic impact of PMR disease debut and the effect of treatment. Interleukin (IL)-6 and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) were significantly impacted by glucocorticoid treatment. Our study defines the PMR serum proteome during glucocorticoid treatment and highlights the role of SAA1, IL-6, and IFN-γ in treatment responses. An involvement of PGLYRP2 in acute PMR could indicate a response to bacterial infection, highlighting its role in the acute phase of the immune response. The results suggest that PMR may be an aberrant response to a bacterial infection with an exacerbated IL-6 and acute phase inflammatory response and molecular attempts to limit the inflammation. Full article
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14 pages, 14550 KiB  
Technical Note
Fluctuations in Refracted Star Signals Caused by the Stratospheric Internal Gravity Waves
by Shaochong Wu, Hongyuan Wang, Xunjiang Zheng and Zhiqiang Yan
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(9), 1519; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16091519 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The application of starlight refraction navigation to spacecraft and space weapons is a significant development. However, the irregular stratospheric atmosphere can cause fluctuations in relative light intensity and refraction angles of refracted stars, which need to be analyzed to provide guidance for system [...] Read more.
The application of starlight refraction navigation to spacecraft and space weapons is a significant development. However, the irregular stratospheric atmosphere can cause fluctuations in relative light intensity and refraction angles of refracted stars, which need to be analyzed to provide guidance for system design and simulation verification. The internal gravity wave (IGW) is an important component of the irregular atmosphere. Based on the Rytov approximation, closed-form approximations were obtained, which can more intuitively reveal the relationship between the IGW parameters and the star signals’ statistical characteristics. From the GOMOS observations, the influence of the stratosphere from 25 km to 35 km on the fluctuations in relative intensity and refraction angles was analyzed in this study. As the height increased, the fluctuations in starlight signals gradually weakened. Compared with the numerical solution, the error of the closed-form approximations for relative intensity fluctuations was no more than 10%, and the error for refraction angle fluctuations was 1.0%. Compared with the measured data, the error of the closed-form approximations for relative intensity was 6.3%. The proposed approximations better reflect the relationship between IGW parameters and star signal fluctuations compared to the existing approximation. The research in this article can provide a reference for application assessment based on starlight refraction navigation. Full article
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18 pages, 2944 KiB  
Article
Influence of Soy Protein Hydrolysates on Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Gluten-Free Flour and Muffin Quality
by Mihaela Brumă (Călin), Iuliana Banu, Ina Vasilean, Leontina Grigore-Gurgu, Loredana Dumitrașcu and Iuliana Aprodu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3640; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093640 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The influence of protease-assisted hydrolysis on the impact exerted by the soy protein isolate on the thermo-mechanical behavior and baking performance of the gluten-free composite flour, consisting of a mixture of rice and quinoa flours, was investigated. The mPAGE analysis revealed that soluble [...] Read more.
The influence of protease-assisted hydrolysis on the impact exerted by the soy protein isolate on the thermo-mechanical behavior and baking performance of the gluten-free composite flour, consisting of a mixture of rice and quinoa flours, was investigated. The mPAGE analysis revealed that soluble fractions of the hydrolysates, obtained with bromelain, Neutrase or trypsin, concentrated the peptides with a molecular weight lower than 20 kDa, whereas the insoluble ones retained higher molecular weight fragments. The influence of the separate and cumulative addition of the soluble and insoluble soy peptide fractions on the thermo-mechanical properties of dough was tested by means of a Mixolab device. Regardless of the enzyme used for hydrolysis, the addition of the soluble peptide fraction to the gluten-free composite flour resulted in delayed starch gelatinization, whereas the insoluble one caused a considerable increase in the dough consistency. The most important improvements in the dough behavior were observed when supplementing the gluten-free flour with 10% soy protein hydrolysates obtained with bromelain and trypsin. The gluten-free muffins enriched in soy protein hydrolysate exhibited important differences in terms of moisture, height and specific volume, compared to the control. Moreover, the ABTS- and DPPH-based methods indicated that protein hydrolysate addition caused a significant improvement in the antioxidant activity (by at least 38% and 23%, respectively) compared to the control. In conclusion, soy protein hydrolysate might be successfully used for increasing both the protein content and the antioxidant activity of the muffin samples. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends in Grain Processing for Food Industry)
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14 pages, 2707 KiB  
Article
Improved Information Fusion for Agricultural Machinery Navigation Based on Context-Constrained Kalman Filter and Dual-Antenna RTK
by Bingbo Cui, Jianxin Zhang, Xinhua Wei, Xinyu Cui, Zeyu Sun, Yan Zhao and Yufei Liu
Actuators 2024, 13(5), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/act13050160 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Automatic navigation based on dual-antenna real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning has been widely employed for unmanned agricultural machinery, whereas GNSS inevitably suffers from signal blocking and electromagnetic interference. In order to improve the reliability of an RTK-based navigation system in a GNSS-challenged environment, an [...] Read more.
Automatic navigation based on dual-antenna real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning has been widely employed for unmanned agricultural machinery, whereas GNSS inevitably suffers from signal blocking and electromagnetic interference. In order to improve the reliability of an RTK-based navigation system in a GNSS-challenged environment, an integrated navigation system is preferred for autonomous navigation, which increases the complexity and cost of the navigation system. The information fusion of integrated navigation has been dominated by Kalman filter (KF) for several decades, but the KF cannot assimilate the known knowledge of the navigation context efficiently. In this paper, the geometric characteristics of the straight path and path-tracking error were employed to formulate the constraint measurement model, which suppresses the position error in the case of RTK-degraded scenarios. The pseudo-measurements were then imported into the KF framework, and the smoothed navigation state was generated as a byproduct, which improves the reliability of the RTK positioning without external sensors. The experiment result of the mobile vehicle automatic navigation indicates that the tracking error-constrained KF (EC-KF) outperforms the trajectory-constrained KF (TC-KF) and KF when the RTK system outputs a float or single-point position (SPP) solution. In the case where the duration of the SPP solution was 20 s, the positioning errors of the EC-KF and TC-KF were reduced by 38.50% and 24.04%, respectively, compared with those of the KF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Mobile Robotics Navigation, 2nd Volume)
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11 pages, 44177 KiB  
Communication
Shifting Mountain Tree Line Increases Soil Organic Carbon Stability Regardless of Land Use
by Sofia Sushko, Kristina Ivashchenko, Alexandra Komarova, Anna Yudina, Victoria Makhantseva, Ekaterina Elsukova and Sergey Blagodatsky
Plants 2024, 13(9), 1193; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091193 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Climate and land use changes are causing trees line to shift up into mountain meadows. The effect of this vegetation change on the partitioning of soil carbon (C) between the labile particulate organic matter (POM–C) and stable mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM–C) pools is [...] Read more.
Climate and land use changes are causing trees line to shift up into mountain meadows. The effect of this vegetation change on the partitioning of soil carbon (C) between the labile particulate organic matter (POM–C) and stable mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM–C) pools is poorly understood. Therefore, we assessed these C pools in a 10 cm topsoil layer along forest–meadow ecotones with different land uses (reserve and pasture) in the Northwest Caucasus of Russia using the size fractionation technique (POM 0.053–2.00 mm, MAOM < 0.053 mm). Potential drivers included the amount of C input from aboveground grass biomass (AGB) and forest litter (litter quantity) and their C/N ratios, aromatic compound content (litter quality), and soil texture. For both land uses, the POM–C pool showed no clear patterns of change along forest–meadow ecotones, while the MAOM–C pool increased steadily from meadow to forest. Regardless of land use, the POM–C/MAOM–C ratio decreased threefold from meadow to forest in line with decreasing grass AGB (R2 = 0.75 and 0.29 for reserve and pasture) and increasing clay content (R2 = 0.63 and 0.36 for reserve and pasture). In pastures, an additional negative relationship was found with respect to plant litter aromaticity (R2 = 0.48). Therefore, shifting the mountain tree line in temperate climates could have a positive effect on conserving soil C stocks by increasing the proportion of stable C pools. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Plant-Soil Interactions, 2nd Volume)
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14 pages, 1187 KiB  
Article
An Assessment of the Suitability of Contrasting Biosolids for Raising Indigenous Plants in Nurseries
by Claudia Garcés-Hernández, Brett Robinson, Claudio Bravo-Linares, Hamish Lowe, Seinalyn Villanueva, Jennifer Prosser and María-Jesús Gutiérrez-Ginés
Water 2024, 16(9), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16091226 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Disposal of biosolids, the solid fraction of sewage treatment, is a global environmental issue. Biosolids contain valuable organic matter and plant nutrients; however, they also contain contaminants including trace elements, xenobiotics, and pathogens. The quality of the biosolids greatly depends on the source [...] Read more.
Disposal of biosolids, the solid fraction of sewage treatment, is a global environmental issue. Biosolids contain valuable organic matter and plant nutrients; however, they also contain contaminants including trace elements, xenobiotics, and pathogens. The quality of the biosolids greatly depends on the source of wastewater (i.e., industrial vs. domestic) and the treatment processes. We aimed to determine the potential of three distinct biosolids and one pond sludge to grow indigenous plants for ecosystem restoration. For each amendment, we tested six indigenous species, Veronica salicifolia, Corokia cheesemanii, Griselinia littoralis, Phormium tenax, Poa cita, and Cordyline australis in bark mixed with biosolids and/or pond sludge at rates of 0–50%. There was a significant positive correlation between plant growth and biosolid addition up to a species-dependent plateau. Growth decreased at the highest rates. At a rate of 10% for fresh biosolids and 30% for aged biosolids provided consistent optimal growth across all species. The pond sludge was unsuitable for the establishment of indigenous seedlings. At the optimal rates, there were significant increases in foliar N, P, K, S, and Zn. None of the trace elements accumulated in the plants at phytotoxic concentrations or levels that presented a risk to ecosystems. Future work should determine how plants raised with biosolids perform once planted out in the field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sewage Sludge: Treatment and Recovery)
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13 pages, 432 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Financial Development on Renewable Energy Consumption: The Case of Vietnam and Other ASEAN Members
by Chien Van Nguyen
Int. J. Financial Stud. 2024, 12(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijfs12020037 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of financial development and renewable energy consumption in Vietnam and some selected countries in Southeast Asia. After researching over the period from 1970 to 2022, using quantitative analyses, including the ordinary least squares [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of financial development and renewable energy consumption in Vietnam and some selected countries in Southeast Asia. After researching over the period from 1970 to 2022, using quantitative analyses, including the ordinary least squares (OLS), fixed effects method (FEM), and random effects method (REM), and measuring the Driscoll–Kraay standard errors to assess cross-dependence between countries as well as a Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) estimation analysis to evaluate the robustness of the research, the research results confirm that financial development has a negative impact on renewable energy consumption, which reflects the important role of fossil energy sources in meeting energy consumption demand. Similarly, increased per capita income negatively affects renewable energy consumption. This study also confirms the positive impact of foreign direct investment on renewable energy use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Investing and Financial Services)
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20 pages, 10133 KiB  
Article
Study on the Effect of Additives on the Performance of Cement-Based Composite Anti-Corrosion Coatings for Steel Bars in Prefabricated Construction
by Hao Peng, Zhishan Chen, Mingxiao Liu, Yunlong Zhao, Wanwan Fu, Jiesheng Liu and Xiaoming Tan
Materials 2024, 17(9), 1996; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17091996 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The influence of polymer emulsion, pigment filler, and dispersant on the corrosion resistance of polymer cement-based composite anti-corrosion coatings were investigated in this study. Adhesion loss rate tests and electrochemical tests were conducted on samples. The research results show that optimal corrosion resistance [...] Read more.
The influence of polymer emulsion, pigment filler, and dispersant on the corrosion resistance of polymer cement-based composite anti-corrosion coatings were investigated in this study. Adhesion loss rate tests and electrochemical tests were conducted on samples. The research results show that optimal corrosion resistance can be achieved with a 45 wt% dosage of emulsion, a 6 wt% dosage of pigment filler, and a 0.30 wt% dosage of dispersant. The bonding properties of bare steel bars, epoxy-coated steel bars, and polymer cement-based composite anti-corrosion coated steel bars with grout were compared. The results show that the polymer cement-based composite anti-corrosion coating can enhance the bonding properties of the samples. Furthermore, the microscopic analysis was conducted on the samples. The results demonstrate that the appropriate addition of emulsion can fill internal pores of the coating, tightly bonding hydration products with unhydrated cement particles. Moreover, incorporating a suitable dosage of functional additives enhances the stability of the coating system and leads to a denser microstructure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)
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17 pages, 9542 KiB  
Article
Nectar Production and Three Main Sugars in Nectar of Salvia pratensis and Salvia glutinosa in Correlation with Abiotic Factors
by Katja Malovrh, Blanka Ravnjak, Jože Bavcon and Mitja Križman
Agriculture 2024, 14(5), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14050668 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Floral nectar is mainly a reward in the form of food for pollinators. Its composition plays an important role when pollinators choose their food. Several studies have shown that the popularity of flowers with nectar is influenced by the concentration and ratio of [...] Read more.
Floral nectar is mainly a reward in the form of food for pollinators. Its composition plays an important role when pollinators choose their food. Several studies have shown that the popularity of flowers with nectar is influenced by the concentration and ratio of sugars. Here, we present the nectar chemical composition with regard to three main sugars and their concentrations in correlation with abiotic factors for the plant species Salvia pratensis L. and Salvia glutinosa L. through their 2023 flowering season. We sampled nectar using microcapillaries at three different times during the day on sites in nature. Our results show that nectar production in both species is the highest at around 12 a.m. The abiotic factor that affects nectar production in both species is the soil temperature, while UVB radiation does not influence nectar production. Air temperature and air humidity affect the nectar production of S. glutinosa, while soil humidity affects nectar production in S. pratensis. The most represented sugar in S. glutinosa nectar is sucrose, while S. pratensis nectar has more glucose and fructose. Our results show that UVB radiation has an effect on the sucrose level, although it does not have any direct effect on nectar productivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Product Quality and Safety)
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17 pages, 7366 KiB  
Article
Simulation Analysis and Experimental Study on the Fluid–Solid–Thermal Coupling of Traction Motor Bearings
by Hengdi Wang, Han Li, Zheming Jin, Jiang Lin, Yongcun Cui, Chang Li, Heng Tian and Zhiwei Wang
Lubricants 2024, 12(5), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants12050144 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The traction motor is a crucial component of high-speed electric multiple units, and its operational reliability is directly impacted by the temperature increase in the bearings. To accurately predict and simulate the temperature change process of traction motor bearings during operation, a fluid–solid–thermal [...] Read more.
The traction motor is a crucial component of high-speed electric multiple units, and its operational reliability is directly impacted by the temperature increase in the bearings. To accurately predict and simulate the temperature change process of traction motor bearings during operation, a fluid–solid–thermal simulation analysis model of grease-lubricated deep groove ball bearings was constructed. This model aimed to simulate the temperature rise of the bearing and the grease flow process, which was validated through experiments. The results from the simulation analysis and tests indicate that the temperature in the contact zone between the bearing rolling element and the raceway, as well as the ring temperature, initially increases to a peak and then gradually decreases, eventually stabilizing once the bearing’s heat generation power and heat transfer power reach equilibrium. Furthermore, the established fluid–solid–thermal coupling simulation analysis model can accurately predict the amount of grease required for effective lubrication in the bearing cavity, which stabilizes along with the bearing temperature. The findings of this research can serve as a theoretical foundation and technical support for monitoring the health status of high-speed EMU traction motor bearings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tribological Characteristics of Bearing System, 2nd Edition)
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20 pages, 4384 KiB  
Article
Finite-Time Attitude Control of Quadrotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicle with Disturbance and Actuator Saturation
by Zheng Zhang, Xingwei Li and Lilian Zhang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3639; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093639 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper introduces a nonlinear dynamic inversion control algorithm designed to address unknown disturbances and actuator saturation issues in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attitude control. The algorithm is based on a combination of finite-time disturbance observer and anti-saturation auxiliary system, which ensures the [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a nonlinear dynamic inversion control algorithm designed to address unknown disturbances and actuator saturation issues in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attitude control. The algorithm is based on a combination of finite-time disturbance observer and anti-saturation auxiliary system, which ensures the rapid convergence of attitude tracking error. Firstly, based on the Newton–Euler equations, this paper establishes a model of the attitude system for quadrotor UAVs, and this paper eliminates the small-angle flight assumption. Secondly, considering the actuator saturation problem, an anti-saturation auxiliary control system is designed to shorten the time when the control volume is in the saturation interval and achieve finite-time convergence of the attitude error. And then, to improve the robustness of the controller, this paper proposes a disturbance observer based on the finite-time stability theory, which achieves a continuous smooth output of the observation results by introducing a hyperbolic tangent function in the observer, so that the observation error can be converged to zero in a finite time. Finally, it is demonstrated by Simulink simulation that the attitude error and the observation error converge quickly to zero. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aerospace Science and Engineering)
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14 pages, 2396 KiB  
Article
MdSGR2 Negatively Regulates Chlorophyll Degradation in Apple
by Shiyi Xue, Pei Yao, Jiwei Kang, Xiong Zheng, Chang Liu, Yan Gao, Dehui Zhang, Xiaojun Zhang and Yanyan Hao
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050439 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The color of an apple is an important index of its appearance quality, which affects the fruit’s marketability and value. The green variety “Granny Smith” remains green when ripe, and the pigment in the peel is mainly chlorophyll. The chlorophyll in the peel [...] Read more.
The color of an apple is an important index of its appearance quality, which affects the fruit’s marketability and value. The green variety “Granny Smith” remains green when ripe, and the pigment in the peel is mainly chlorophyll. The chlorophyll in the peel of the yellow variety “Golden Delicious” degrades as the fruit ripens. To explore the different mechanisms of chlorophyll degradation in the “Golden Delicious” and “Granny Smith” varieties, transcriptomic analysis was performed on the mature peels of both cultivars. High-quality sequences totaling 48,206,940 and 48,796,646 raw bases, as well as 9632 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), were identified. A total of 1206 DEGs were classified in 118 KEGG metabolic pathways. Additionally, 3258 transcription factors from 428 gene families were predicted, and DEGs associated with chlorophyll degradation, including MdSGR2, MdNYC1 and MdHCAR, were identified. Subsequently, the MdSGR2 gene was isolated from the mature peel of “Granny Smith” apples. Subsequent subcellular localization analysis confirmed that MdSGR2 specifically targets chloroplasts. The transient overexpression of MdSGR2 was found to negatively regulate chlorophyll degradation, leading to the inhibition or deceleration of chlorophyll breakdown, thereby maintaining green coloration in the leaves and peel. Conversely, silencing MdSGR2 positively regulated chlorophyll degradation, resulting in chlorosis in the leaves and peel. These findings offer valuable insights into the regulatory mechanism governing apple fruit coloration and lays a solid foundation for further investigation in this field. Full article
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15 pages, 2431 KiB  
Article
3-Ethynyltriimidazo[1,2-a:1′,2′-c:1″,2″-e][1,3,5]triazine Dual Short- and Long-Lived Emissions with Crystallization-Enhanced Feature: Role of Hydrogen Bonds and π-π Interactions
by Daniele Malpicci, Daniele Maver, Elisabetta Rosadoni, Alessia Colombo, Elena Lucenti, Daniele Marinotto, Chiara Botta, Fabio Bellina, Elena Cariati and Alessandra Forni
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 1967; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29091967 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Organic room temperature phosphorescent (ORTP) materials with stimuli-responsive, multicomponent emissive behaviour are extremely desirable for various applications. The derivative of cyclic triimidazole (TT) functionalized with an ethynyl group, TT-CCH, is isolated and investigated. The compound possesses crystallization-enhanced emission (CEE) comprising [...] Read more.
Organic room temperature phosphorescent (ORTP) materials with stimuli-responsive, multicomponent emissive behaviour are extremely desirable for various applications. The derivative of cyclic triimidazole (TT) functionalized with an ethynyl group, TT-CCH, is isolated and investigated. The compound possesses crystallization-enhanced emission (CEE) comprising dual fluorescence and dual phosphorescence of both molecular and supramolecular origin with aggregation-induced components highly sensitive to grinding. The mechanisms involved in the emissions have been disclosed thanks to combined structural, spectroscopic and computational investigations. In particular, strong CH⋯N hydrogen bonds are deemed responsible, for the first time in the TT family, together with frequently observed π⋯π stacking interactions, for the aggregated fluorescence and phosphorescence. Full article
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17 pages, 6214 KiB  
Article
TiO2—MoS2—PMMA Nanocomposites for an Efficient Water Remediation
by Vanessa Spanò, Maria Cantarella, Massimo Zimbone, Federico Giuffrida, Gianfranco Sfuncia, Giuseppe Nicotra, Alessandra Alberti, Silvia Scalese, Libera Vitiello, Sabrina Carola Carroccio and Giuliana Impellizzeri
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1200; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091200 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
An improvement of water supply and sanitation and better management of water resources, especially in terms of water reuse, is one of the priorities of the European Green Deal. In this context, it is crucial to find new strategies to recycle wastewater efficiently [...] Read more.
An improvement of water supply and sanitation and better management of water resources, especially in terms of water reuse, is one of the priorities of the European Green Deal. In this context, it is crucial to find new strategies to recycle wastewater efficiently in a low-cost and eco-friendly manner. The immobilization of inorganic nanomaterials on polymeric matrices has been drawing a lot of attention in recent years due to the extraordinary properties characterizing the as-obtained nanocomposites. The hybrid materials, indeed, combine the properties of the polymers, such as flexibility, low cost, mechanical stability, high durability, and ease of availability, with the properties of the inorganic counterpart. In particular, if the inorganic fillers are nanostructured photocatalysts, the materials will be able to utilize the energy delivered by light to catalyze chemical reactions for efficient wastewater treatment. Additionally, with the anchoring of the nanomaterials to the polymers, the dispersion of the nanomaterials in the environment is prevented, thus overcoming one of the main limits that impede the application of nanostructured photocatalysts on a large scale. In this work, we will present nanocomposites made of polymers, i.e., polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and photocatalytic semiconductors, i.e., TiO2 nanoparticles (Evonik). MoS2 nanoflakes were also added as co-catalysts to improve the photocatalytic performance of the TiO2. The hybrid materials were prepared using the sonication and solution casting method. The nanocomposites were deeply characterized, and their remarkable photocatalytic abilities were evaluated by the degradation of two common water pollutants: methyl orange and diclofenac. The relevance of the obtained results will be discussed, opening the route for the application of these materials in photocatalysis and especially for novel wastewater remediation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
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17 pages, 305 KiB  
Article
Metaphorical Language and Function of the “Bridal Pick-Up” Ritual in Anatolian Traditional Weddings with Its Origin and Reflections
by Atila Kartal, Kemal Şimşek, Emine Atmaca and Haktan Kaplan
Religions 2024, 15(5), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15050530 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the urban centers of Türkiye, where cultural changes are more widespread and effective, wedding processional is replaced by the solemnization of the marriage at indoor weddings, and the Kūdegū (old Turkic language; refers to bridegroom, son-in-law) awaiting the bride’s arrival at the [...] Read more.
In the urban centers of Türkiye, where cultural changes are more widespread and effective, wedding processional is replaced by the solemnization of the marriage at indoor weddings, and the Kūdegū (old Turkic language; refers to bridegroom, son-in-law) awaiting the bride’s arrival at the boy’s house is replaced by differences in the way of the bride and groom’s entry together; moreover, while wedding rituals such as the bridal bath and groom’s hammam are being forgotten, bachelor/bachelorette parties are on the rise. The beliefs and practices related to the bride being taken out of the girl’s house with a special ceremony have deep meanings, such as blessing the bride who has just joined the family, acclimatizing the bride who feels like an outsider and avoiding her from these feelings, and protecting the bride and groom from the körmös (spirits in Turkic mythology, devilish entities living in the underworld), bad spirits, and the evil eye. In this paper, the structure, function, practices, and beliefs of the rituals surrounding the bride and groom on the last day of Anatolian Turkish weddings are analyzed using a qualitative research method. In addition, this study identified the betrothal, performance, beliefs, and practices surrounding the ritual of “bridal pick up” among Anatolian Turks and evaluated the symbols and signs in the ritual procedures in the functional context of the origins and reflections of traditional Turkish beliefs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Religion in Marriage and Family Life)
16 pages, 23324 KiB  
Article
Optimization Method for Space-Based Target Detection System Based on Background-Oriented Schlieren
by Kang Li, Feng Zhou, Yun Su, Weihe Ren, Yue Zhang, Jiaquan Deng and Ruiyan Shan
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2731; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092731 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Currently, the visual detection of a target’s shock flow field through background schlieren technology is a novel detection system. However, there are very few studies on the long-distance background schlieren imaging mechanism and its application in system design in the field of target [...] Read more.
Currently, the visual detection of a target’s shock flow field through background schlieren technology is a novel detection system. However, there are very few studies on the long-distance background schlieren imaging mechanism and its application in system design in the field of target detection. This paper proposes a design optimization method for space-based BOS detection system metrics. By establishing sensitivity evaluation models and image signal-to-noise ratio evaluation models for BOS detection systems, the influence of the different flight parameters and key parameters of BOS systems (detection spectral bands and spatial resolution) on target detection efficiency is explored. Furthermore, an optimization method based on the image signal-to-noise ratio of the BOS system and the overall metrics for specific scenarios are provided. The simulation results demonstrate that under satellite background images and speckle background images, the system metrics can detect and identify the schlieren of high-speed targets, with better applicability to disordered and complex real background images. This research contributes to advancing the development of high-speed target detection technology based on BOS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Optical Sensors)
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13 pages, 508 KiB  
Article
Niches Seeking Legitimacy: Notes about Social Innovation and Forms of Social Enterprise in the Italian Renewable Energy Communities
by Lorenzo De Vidovich
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3599; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093599 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Renewable energy communities (RECs) are increasingly seen as key innovations for the development of decentralized energy systems that leverage on renewable energy co-production, sharing, and consumption. However, they still represent a niche in search of development and consolidation, and the social innovations they [...] Read more.
Renewable energy communities (RECs) are increasingly seen as key innovations for the development of decentralized energy systems that leverage on renewable energy co-production, sharing, and consumption. However, they still represent a niche in search of development and consolidation, and the social innovations they might bring to the energy systems need to be further scrutinized. Innovations related to the capacity to support forms of social entrepreneurship in the energy system are central to this analysis, even if they have been little studied in Italy in relation to the emerging field of renewable energy communities. Through a theoretical discussion aimed at fulfilling descriptive objectives, this paper examines, on the one hand, the social innovations related to community energy projects and, with a focus on Italy, the legal forms required to create an REC in the light of the constantly changing regulatory framework, where new actors, such as the Third Sector, can play a leading role as intermediary actors to develop the social implementation of REC initiatives. The paper navigates through the literature on community energy in the light of the social innovation they can bring to the energy system, discusses the niche condition of RECs, and addresses the Italian case with particular reference to the role of the Third Sector in disseminating REC innovations. Full article
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