The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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Article
An Assessment of the Performance Limitations of the Integrated QuantifilerTM Trio-HRM Assay: A Forensic Tool Designed to Identify Mixtures at the Quantification Stage
by Chastyn Smith, Sarah J. Seashols-Williams, Edward L. Boone and Tracey Dawson Green
Genes 2024, 15(6), 768; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15060768 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Although guidelines exist for identifying mixtures, these measures often occur at the end-point of analysis and are protracted. To facilitate early mixture detection, we integrated a high-resolution melt (HRM) mixture screening assay into the qPCR step of the forensic workflow, producing the integrated [...] Read more.
Although guidelines exist for identifying mixtures, these measures often occur at the end-point of analysis and are protracted. To facilitate early mixture detection, we integrated a high-resolution melt (HRM) mixture screening assay into the qPCR step of the forensic workflow, producing the integrated QuantifilerTM Trio-HRM assay. The assay, when coupled with a prediction tool, allowed for 75.0% accurate identification of the contributor status of a sample (single source vs. mixture). To elucidate the limitations of the developed qPCR-HRM assay, developmental validation studies were conducted assessing the reproducibility and samples with varying DNA ratios, contributors, and quality. From this work, it was determined that the integrated QuantifilerTM Trio-HRM assay is capable of accurately identifying mixtures with up to five contributors and mixtures at ratios up to 1:100. Further, the optimal performance concentration range was found to be between 0.025 and 0.5 ng/µL. With these results, evidentiary-like DNA samples were then analyzed, resulting in 100.0% of the mixture samples being accurately identified; furthermore, every time a sample was predicted as a single source, it was true, giving confidence to any single-source calls. Overall, the integrated QuantifilerTM Trio-HRM assay has exhibited an enhanced ability to discern mixture samples from single-source samples at the qPCR stage under commonly observed conditions regardless of the contributor’s sex. Full article
25 pages, 5119 KiB  
Article
AI Applied to Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Profiles from Exhaled Breath Air for Early Detection of Lung Cancer
by Manuel Vinhas, Pedro M. Leitão, Bernardo S. Raimundo, Nuno Gil, Pedro D. Vaz and Fernando Luis-Ferreira
Cancers 2024, 16(12), 2200; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16122200 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are an increasingly meaningful method for the early detection of various types of cancers, including lung cancer, through non-invasive methods. Traditional cancer detection techniques such as biopsies, imaging, and blood tests, though effective, often involve invasive procedures or are [...] Read more.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are an increasingly meaningful method for the early detection of various types of cancers, including lung cancer, through non-invasive methods. Traditional cancer detection techniques such as biopsies, imaging, and blood tests, though effective, often involve invasive procedures or are costly, time consuming, and painful. Recent advancements in technology have led to the exploration of VOC detection as a promising non-invasive and comfortable alternative. VOCs are organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure at room temperature, making them readily detectable in breath, urine, and skin. The present study leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to enhance classification accuracy and efficiency in detecting lung cancer through VOC analysis collected from exhaled breath air. Unlike other studies that primarily focus on identifying specific compounds, this study takes an agnostic approach, maximizing detection efficiency over the identification of specific compounds focusing on the overall compositional profiles and their differences across groups of patients. The results reported hereby uphold the potential of AI-driven techniques in revolutionizing early cancer detection methodologies towards their implementation in a clinical setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Image Analysis and Machine Learning in Cancers)
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13 pages, 4802 KiB  
Article
Terahertz Sensing of L-Valine and L-Phenylalanine Solutions
by Jingyi Shu, Xinli Zhou, Jixuan Hao, Haochen Zhao, Mingming An, Yichen Zhang and Guozhong Zhao
Sensors 2024, 24(12), 3798; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24123798 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
To detect and differentiate two essential amino acids (L-Valine and L-Phenylalanine) in the human body, a novel asymmetrically folded dual-aperture metal ring terahertz metasurface sensor was designed. A solvent mixture of water and glycerol with a volume ratio of 2:8 was proposed to [...] Read more.
To detect and differentiate two essential amino acids (L-Valine and L-Phenylalanine) in the human body, a novel asymmetrically folded dual-aperture metal ring terahertz metasurface sensor was designed. A solvent mixture of water and glycerol with a volume ratio of 2:8 was proposed to reduce the absorption of terahertz waves by reducing the water content. A sample chamber with a controlled liquid thickness of 15 μm was fabricated. And a terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) system, which is capable of horizontally positioning the samples, was assembled. The results of the sensing test revealed that as the concentration of valine solution varied from 0 to 20 mmol/L, the sensing resonance peak shifted from 1.39 THz to 1.58 THz with a concentration sensitivity of 9.98 GHz/mmol∗L−1. The resonance peak shift phenomenon in phenylalanine solution was less apparent. It is assumed that the coupling enhancement between the absorption peak position of solutes in the solution and the sensing peak position amplified the terahertz localized electric field resonance, which resulted in the increase in frequency shift. Therefore, it could be shown that the sensor has capabilities in performing the marker sensing detection of L-Valine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Terahertz Sensors)
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19 pages, 3029 KiB  
Article
Novel Deep Learning Domain Adaptation Approach for Object Detection Using Semi-Self Building Dataset and Modified YOLOv4
by Ahmed Gomaa and Ahmad Abdalrazik
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(6), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15060255 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Moving object detection is a vital research area that plays an essential role in intelligent transportation systems (ITSs) and various applications in computer vision. Recently, researchers have utilized convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to develop new techniques in object detection and recognition. However, with [...] Read more.
Moving object detection is a vital research area that plays an essential role in intelligent transportation systems (ITSs) and various applications in computer vision. Recently, researchers have utilized convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to develop new techniques in object detection and recognition. However, with the increasing number of machine learning strategies used for object detection, there has been a growing need for large datasets with accurate ground truth used for the training, usually demanding their manual labeling. Moreover, most of these deep strategies are supervised and only applicable for specific scenes with large computational resources needed. Alternatively, other object detection techniques such as classical background subtraction need low computational resources and can be used with general scenes. In this paper, we propose a new a reliable semi-automatic method that combines a modified version of the detection-based CNN You Only Look Once V4 (YOLOv4) technique and background subtraction technique to perform an unsupervised object detection for surveillance videos. In this proposed strategy, background subtraction-based low-rank decomposition is applied firstly to extract the moving objects. Then, a clustering method is adopted to refine the background subtraction (BS) result. Finally, the refined results are used to fine-tune the modified YOLO v4 before using it in the detection and classification of objects. The main contribution of this work is a new detection framework that overcomes manual labeling and creates an automatic labeler that can replace manual labeling using motion information to supply labeled training data (background and foreground) directly from the detection video. Extensive experiments using real-world object monitoring benchmarks indicate that the suggested framework obtains a considerable increase in mAP compared to state-of-the-art results on both the CDnet 2014 and UA-DETRAC datasets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Autonomous Driving Based on Image Recognition)
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8 pages, 4284 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Behavior and Optical Soliton for the M-Truncated Fractional Paraxial Wave Equation Arising in a Liquid Crystal Model
by Jie Luo and Zhao Li
Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(6), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8060348 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The main purpose of this article is to investigate the dynamic behavior and optical soliton for the M-truncated fractional paraxial wave equation arising in a liquid crystal model, which is usually used to design camera lenses for high-quality photography. The traveling wave transformation [...] Read more.
The main purpose of this article is to investigate the dynamic behavior and optical soliton for the M-truncated fractional paraxial wave equation arising in a liquid crystal model, which is usually used to design camera lenses for high-quality photography. The traveling wave transformation is applied to the M-truncated fractional paraxial wave equation. Moreover, a two-dimensional dynamical system and its disturbance system are obtained. The phase portraits of the two-dimensional dynamic system and Poincaré sections and a bifurcation portrait of its perturbation system are drawn. The obtained three-dimensional graphs of soliton solutions, two-dimensional graphs of soliton solutions, and contour graphs of the M-truncated fractional paraxial wave equation arising in a liquid crystal model are drawn. Full article
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18 pages, 2030 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Current Landscape of Reptile Pet Ownership in Hong Kong: A Foundation for Improved Animal Welfare and Future Research Directions
by Sze-Wing Chan, Wei-Ta Fang, Ben LePage and Shun-Mei Wang
Animals 2024, 14(12), 1767; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14121767 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
We investigated the evolving landscape of reptile pet ownership in Hong Kong. Employing a quantitative approach, a self-administered survey was distributed and over 200 reptile pet owners residing in Hong Kong responded. The survey instrument captured demographic data on pet ownership history, species [...] Read more.
We investigated the evolving landscape of reptile pet ownership in Hong Kong. Employing a quantitative approach, a self-administered survey was distributed and over 200 reptile pet owners residing in Hong Kong responded. The survey instrument captured demographic data on pet ownership history, species preferences, husbandry practices, and veterinary care utilization. The findings revealed a strong interest in pet reptiles, with lizards being particularly popular (67%) among new owners. Turtles remain common (35%), likely due to cultural factors and perceived ease of care. However, a gap was noted between the awareness and the implementation of proper husbandry practices, with 51% of respondents expressing concerns about enrichment and 21% uncertain about appropriate enclosure size. Veterinary care utilization also showed a disconnect, with 50% of the respondents reporting no regular check-ups were performed, despite acknowledging its importance. Reptile behavior served as a well-being indicator. Over 90% of the respondents observed normal behaviors like locomotion and breathing. Interestingly, a positive correlation emerged between reptile behavior scores and duration of ownership (r = 0.200, p < 0.01), suggesting improved well-being for reptiles that were in long-term care. These findings emphasize the need for educational initiatives promoting responsible pet ownership practices and fostering collaboration between reptile owners, veterinarians, and animal welfare organizations. By addressing these knowledge gaps and promoting a collaborative approach, our results aim to contribute to enhanced reptile welfare in the context of Hong Kong’s evolving pet ownership trends. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)
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12 pages, 2070 KiB  
Article
Investigations on the Carrier Mobility of Cs2NaFeCl6 Double Perovskites
by Jiyuan Xing, Yiting Zhao, Wei-Yan Cong, Chengbo Guan, Zhongchen Wu, Dong Liu and Ying-Bo Lu
Crystals 2024, 14(6), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14060547 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Double perovskite materials have gradually become widely studied due to their potential applications in solar cells and other optoelectronic devices. We take Cs2NaFeCl6 as an example to investigate the carrier mobility with respect to the acoustic phonon and the optical [...] Read more.
Double perovskite materials have gradually become widely studied due to their potential applications in solar cells and other optoelectronic devices. We take Cs2NaFeCl6 as an example to investigate the carrier mobility with respect to the acoustic phonon and the optical phonon scattering mechanisms. By considering the deformation potential, carrier effective mass, and bulk modulus, the longitudinal acoustic (LA) phonon-determined mobilities for electrons and holes in Cs2NaFeCl6 are found to be μe = 2886.08 cm2 v−1 s−1 and μh = 39.09 cm2 v−1 s−1, respectively. The optical scattering mechanism involves calculating the Fröhlich coupling constant, dielectric constant, and polaron mass to determine the multiple polar optical (PO) phonon-scattering-determined mobilities, resulting in μe = 279.25 cm2 v−1 s−1 and μh = 21.29 cm2 v−1 s−1, respectively. By combining both interactions, the total electron mobility and hole mobility are determined to be 254.61 cm2 v−1 s−1 and 13.78 cm2 v−1 s−1, respectively. The findings suggest that the polarization of both electrons and ions, small coupling constant, and bulk modulus in Cs2NaFeCl6’s lattice make PO scattering a significant contribution to carrier mobility in this specific double perovskite, highlighting the importance of considering this in enhancing the optoelectronic properties of Cs2NaFeCl6 and other double perovskites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Crystalline Materials)
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15 pages, 5252 KiB  
Article
Application of Overground Rock Film Mulching (ORFM) Technology in Karst Rocky Desertification Farmland: Improving Soil Moisture Environment and Crop Root Growth
by Zhimeng Zhao, Jin Zhang and Rui Liu
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1265; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061265 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Overground rock is a prominent feature of rocky desertification landscape in karst farmland; however, people often pay attention to their adverse effects, leaving their positive effects on ecohydrological processes and plant growth as rarely studied and utilized. In this study, the effects of [...] Read more.
Overground rock is a prominent feature of rocky desertification landscape in karst farmland; however, people often pay attention to their adverse effects, leaving their positive effects on ecohydrological processes and plant growth as rarely studied and utilized. In this study, the effects of overground rock film mulching (ORFM) on soil water flow behavior, soil water content and temporal and spatial heterogeneity were investigated through a dye tracer test and soil moisture measurement. Moreover, the effects of this technology on the root characteristics of crops (maize and broad bean) were analyzed. The results showed that ORFM treatment significantly increased soil water content and its spatio-temporal heterogeneity by preventing preferential flow at the rock–soil interface. It suggested that this practice can provide a more favorable soil moisture environment for crop growth, which was confirmed by the differences in root characteristics of crops (maize and broad bean) under different treatments in this study. It was found that ORFM treatment reduced the root radial extent of crops but increased the root biomass and root bifurcation rate, which are widely considered to be key factors in improving the efficiency of fine root absorption. Therefore, we believe that ORFM has great potential to improve the effective use of soil water and agricultural water management in karst areas, which is essential for sustainable agricultural development in the region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Use and Irrigation)
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13 pages, 1914 KiB  
Article
In Silico Exploration of CD200 as a Therapeutic Target for COVID-19
by Vladimir Perovic, Sanja Glisic, Milena Veljkovic, Slobodan Paessler and Veljko Veljkovic
Microorganisms 2024, 12(6), 1185; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061185 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the pathogen causing COVID-19, continues to pose a significant threat to public health and has had major economic implications. Developing safe and effective vaccines and therapies offers a path forward for overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic. The presented study, performed by using the [...] Read more.
SARS-CoV-2, the pathogen causing COVID-19, continues to pose a significant threat to public health and has had major economic implications. Developing safe and effective vaccines and therapies offers a path forward for overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic. The presented study, performed by using the informational spectrum method (ISM), representing an electronic biology-based tool for analysis of protein–protein interactions, identified the highly conserved region of spike protein (SP) from SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is essential for recognition and targeting between the virus and its protein interactors on the target cells. This domain is suggested as a promising target for the drug therapy and vaccines, which could be effective against all currently circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2 viruses. The analysis of the virus/host interaction, performed by the ISM, also revealed OX-2 membrane glycoprotein (CD200) as a possible interactor of SP, which could serve as a novel therapeutic target for COVID-19 disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Pathogenesis of Common Human and Animal Viruses)
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23 pages, 840 KiB  
Article
Charting the Professional Development Journey of Irish Primary Teachers as They Engage in Lesson Study
by Mairéad Hourigan and Aisling M. Leavy
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 4997; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16124997 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
This paper focuses on the perceptions of Irish primary teachers about Lesson Study as a professional development model. To further our understanding of the characteristics of Lesson Study and its compatibility with the Irish educational context, the opinions of primary teachers are fundamental. [...] Read more.
This paper focuses on the perceptions of Irish primary teachers about Lesson Study as a professional development model. To further our understanding of the characteristics of Lesson Study and its compatibility with the Irish educational context, the opinions of primary teachers are fundamental. Within this study, 19 primary teachers across eight urban schools engaged in Lesson Study for the first time, working within four grade-level Lesson Study groups. The findings suggest that while primary teachers were newcomers to Lesson Study, they were eager to engage and welcomed many of its characteristics. Notably, they valued the focus on collaboration and particular Lesson Study practices. Teachers’ engagement was hampered by the barrier of time. The paper explores additional adaptations to the Lesson Study approach that participants perceived would develop a more realistic and sustainable Lesson Study model within their particular educational context. Full article
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12 pages, 9413 KiB  
Communication
High-Resolution Magnetic Resonance Neurography at 7T: A Pilot Study of Hand Innervation
by Pauline C. Guillemin, David Ferreira Branco, Yacine M’Rad, Loan Mattera, Orane Lorton, Gian Franco Piredda, Antoine Klauser, Roberto Martuzzi, Pierre-Alexandre Poletti, Rares Salomir and Sana Boudabbous
Diagnostics 2024, 14(12), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14121230 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The emergence of 7T clinical MRI technology has sparked our interest in its ability to discern the complex structures of the hand. Our primary objective was to assess the sensory and motor nerve structures of the hand, specifically nerves and Pacinian corpuscles, with [...] Read more.
The emergence of 7T clinical MRI technology has sparked our interest in its ability to discern the complex structures of the hand. Our primary objective was to assess the sensory and motor nerve structures of the hand, specifically nerves and Pacinian corpuscles, with the dual purpose of aiding diagnostic endeavors and supporting reconstructive surgical procedures. Ethical approval was obtained to carry out 7T MRI scans on a cohort of volunteers. Four volunteers assumed a prone position, with their hands (N = 8) positioned in a “superman” posture. To immobilize and maintain the hand in a strictly horizontal position, it was affixed to a plastic plate. Passive B0 shimming was implemented. Once high-resolution 3D images had been acquired using a multi-transmit head coil, advanced post-processing techniques were used to meticulously delineate the nerve fiber networks and mechanoreceptors. Across all participants, digital nerves were consistently located on the phalanges area, on average, between 2.5 and 3.5 mm beneath the skin, except within flexion folds where the nerve was approximately 1.8 mm from the surface. On the phalanges area, the mean distance from digital nerves to joints was approximately 1.5 mm. The nerves of the fingers were closer to the bone than to the surface of the skin. Furthermore, Pacinian corpuscles exhibited a notable clustering primarily within the metacarpal zone, situated on the palmar aspect. Our study yielded promising results, successfully reconstructing and meticulously describing the anatomy of nerve fibers spanning from the carpus to the digital nerve division, alongside the identification of Pacinian corpuscles, in four healthy volunteers (eight hands). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances and Applications in Neuroradiology)
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12 pages, 1192 KiB  
Article
Comparative Efficacy of Different Therapeutic Interventions in Eustachian Tube Dysfunctions: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
by Sarah Alshehri and Abdullah Musleh
Diagnostics 2024, 14(12), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14121229 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) affects a significant portion of the population, manifesting symptoms that impact the quality of life. Despite the prevalence of ETD, there remains a notable gap in comprehensive studies exploring the condition’s dynamics within specific demographic contexts, particularly within Saudi [...] Read more.
Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) affects a significant portion of the population, manifesting symptoms that impact the quality of life. Despite the prevalence of ETD, there remains a notable gap in comprehensive studies exploring the condition’s dynamics within specific demographic contexts, particularly within Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of ETD across different demographic groups, to evaluate the efficacy of various treatment modalities, and to identify key predictors of treatment response in a Saudi Arabian cohort. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to May 2023 in tertiary care hospitals in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. Participants included adults diagnosed with ETD, assessed through clinical symptoms, otoscopic examinations, audiometric evaluations, tympanometry, and the ETDQ-7 questionnaire. The study incorporated advanced diagnostics such as nasopharyngoscopy and pressure equalization tube function tests and involved 154 participants, revealing significant variations in ETD severity, with the 46–60 age group exhibiting the highest mean ETDQ-7 score of 4.85, and urban residents displaying lower severity scores compared to rural counterparts. Pharmacological interventions were most effective, achieving the highest symptom relief and audiological improvement rates of 87.78%. Multivariate regression highlighted age, geographic location, and treatment modality as key predictors of treatment efficacy, with notable interaction effects between climate conditions and treatment types influencing outcomes. The findings underscore the heterogeneity in ETD presentation and the differential efficacy of treatment modalities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Management in Otolaryngology 2024)
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16 pages, 4254 KiB  
Article
Maternal Hypermethylated Genes Contribute to Intrauterine Growth Retardation of Piglets in Rongchang Pigs
by Pingxian Wu, Junge Wang, Xiang Ji, Jie Chai, Li Chen, Tinghuan Zhang, Xi Long, Zhi Tu, Siqing Chen, Lijuan Zhang, Ketian Wang, Liang Zhang, Zongyi Guo and Jinyong Wang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(12), 6462; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25126462 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The placenta is a crucial determinant of fetal survival, growth, and development. Deficiency in placental development directly causes intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). IUGR can lead to fetal growth restriction and an increase in the mortality rate. The genetic mechanisms underlying IUGR development, however, [...] Read more.
The placenta is a crucial determinant of fetal survival, growth, and development. Deficiency in placental development directly causes intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). IUGR can lead to fetal growth restriction and an increase in the mortality rate. The genetic mechanisms underlying IUGR development, however, remain unclear. In the present study, we integrated whole-genome DNA methylation and transcriptomic analyses to determine distinct gene expression patterns in various placental tissues to identify pivotal genes that are implicated with IUGR development. By performing RNA-sequencing analysis, 1487 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with 737 upregulated and 750 downregulated genes, were identified in IUGR pigs (H_IUGR) compared with that in normal birth weight pigs (N_IUGR) (p < 0.05); furthermore, 77 miRNAs, 1331 lncRNAs, and 61 circRNAs were differentially expressed. The protein–protein interaction network analysis revealed that among these DEGs, the genes GNGT1, ANXA1, and CDC20 related to cellular developmental processes and blood vessel development were the key genes associated with the development of IUGR. A total of 495,870 differentially methylated regions were identified between the N_IUGR and H_IUGR groups, which included 25,053 differentially methylated genes (DMEs); moreover, the overall methylation level was higher in the H_IUGR group than in the N_IUGR group. Combined analysis showed an inverse correlation between methylation levels and gene expression. A total of 1375 genes involved in developmental processes, tissue development, and immune system regulation exhibited methylation differences in gene expression levels in the promoter regions and gene ontology regions. Five genes, namely, ANXA1, ADM, NRP2, SHH, and SMAD1, with high methylation levels were identified as potential contributors to IUGR development. These findings provide valuable insights that DNA methylation plays a crucial role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression and mammalian development and that DNA-hypermethylated genes contribute to IUGR development in Rongchang pigs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Genomes and Epigenomes 2.0)
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14 pages, 3521 KiB  
Article
Performance Comparison of Convolutional Neural Network-Based Hearing Loss Classification Model Using Auditory Brainstem Response Data
by Jun Ma, Seong Jun Choi, Sungyeup Kim and Min Hong
Diagnostics 2024, 14(12), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14121232 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study evaluates the efficacy of several Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models for the classification of hearing loss in patients using preprocessed auditory brainstem response (ABR) image data. Specifically, we employed six CNN architectures—VGG16, VGG19, DenseNet121, DenseNet-201, AlexNet, and InceptionV3—to differentiate between patients [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the efficacy of several Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models for the classification of hearing loss in patients using preprocessed auditory brainstem response (ABR) image data. Specifically, we employed six CNN architectures—VGG16, VGG19, DenseNet121, DenseNet-201, AlexNet, and InceptionV3—to differentiate between patients with hearing loss and those with normal hearing. A dataset comprising 7990 preprocessed ABR images was utilized to assess the performance and accuracy of these models. Each model was systematically tested to determine its capability to accurately classify hearing loss. A comparative analysis of the models focused on metrics of accuracy and computational efficiency. The results indicated that the AlexNet model exhibited superior performance, achieving an accuracy of 95.93%. The findings from this research suggest that deep learning models, particularly AlexNet in this instance, hold significant potential for automating the diagnosis of hearing loss using ABR graph data. Future work will aim to refine these models to enhance their diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, fostering their practical application in clinical settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Deep Learning Techniques for Medical Image Analysis)
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16 pages, 292 KiB  
Article
Weighted-Likelihood-Ratio-Based EWMA Schemes for Monitoring Geometric Distributions
by Yizhen Zhang, Hongxing Cai and Jiujun Zhang
Axioms 2024, 13(6), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms13060392 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Monitoring the parameter of discrete distributions is common in industrial production. Also, it is often crucial to monitor the parameter of geometric distribution, which is often regarded as the nonconforming item rate. To enhance the detection of nonconforming item, we designed an exponentially [...] Read more.
Monitoring the parameter of discrete distributions is common in industrial production. Also, it is often crucial to monitor the parameter of geometric distribution, which is often regarded as the nonconforming item rate. To enhance the detection of nonconforming item, we designed an exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) scheme based on the weighted likelihood ratio test (WLRT) method, and this scheme is denoted as the EWLRT scheme, specifically designed for monitoring the increase of the parameter in geometric distribution. Moreover, the optimal statistical design of the EWLRT scheme is presented when the shift is known. Results from numerical comparisons through Monte Carlo simulations indicates that the EWLRT scheme performs better than the competing schemes in some scenarios. Additionally, the designed scheme is characterized by its simplicity and ease of use, making it ideally suited for scenarios involving single observation. An example is illustrated to demonstrate the effectiveness of the EWLRT scheme. Full article
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18 pages, 1927 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Resource Utilization of Huangshui from Baijiu Production
by Xiaoying Zhang, Huiwen Zhang, Zhengyi Zhang, Ruixi Wang and Jishi Zhang
Fermentation 2024, 10(6), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation10060310 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Huangshui is a typical organic wastewater in Chinese Baijiu production, with high pollution and valuable ingredients. Conventional wastewater treatment leads to resource-wasting and environmental pollution. It is urgent that the demand for effective Huangshui treatment with the development of the Baijiu-making industry. This [...] Read more.
Huangshui is a typical organic wastewater in Chinese Baijiu production, with high pollution and valuable ingredients. Conventional wastewater treatment leads to resource-wasting and environmental pollution. It is urgent that the demand for effective Huangshui treatment with the development of the Baijiu-making industry. This review systematically summarizes recent studies, revealing the main characteristics and application of Huangshui, focusing on the application of the rich microbial resources and flavor substances, which provides a practical approach to cascade and full use of Huangshui in medicine, cosmetic, functional food, fertilizer, and wastewater treatment fields. Further research suggested that Huangshui can also be used as an external carbon source for the denitrification system or as an organic liquid water-soluble fertilizer for more fruits and grains. The applications favor improving production efficiency and lowering pollutant emissions and introduce novel concepts for the sustainable development of related industries. Thus, Chinese Baijiu plants can achieve the near-zero emissions of wastewater and cleaner production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fermentation for Food and Beverages)
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15 pages, 1947 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Evaluation of Apple Germplasm Genetic Diversity on the Basis of 26 Phenotypic Traits
by Wen Tian, Zichen Li, Lin Wang, Simiao Sun, Dajiang Wang, Kun Wang, Guangyi Wang, Zhao Liu, Xiang Lu, Jianrong Feng and Yuan Gao
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1264; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061264 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
We used 256 apple germplasm resources for a thorough examination of the genetic diversity associated with 26 phenotypic traits (i.e., genetic diversity analysis, cluster analysis, correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and membership function). The average coefficient of variation for 12 morphological traits was [...] Read more.
We used 256 apple germplasm resources for a thorough examination of the genetic diversity associated with 26 phenotypic traits (i.e., genetic diversity analysis, cluster analysis, correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and membership function). The average coefficient of variation for 12 morphological traits was 66.39% (21.10–201.5%). The coefficient of variation was highest and lowest for the fruit arris and the width of the eye basin, respectively. Additionally, the diversity index ranged from 0.54 to 1.33. Moreover, the coefficient of variation for 14 numerical traits varied from 5.37% to 50%. The titratable acid content had the highest coefficient of variation, with a diversity index ranging from 2.01 to 2.08 (average of 2.045). A cluster analysis categorized 256 germplasms into four groups, among which Group I included germplasms with large fruits and the best comprehensive performance. Of the top 10 principal components revealed by the principal component analysis, principal component 1 was mainly related to fruit size and flavor. The top 10 germplasms were selected on the basis of comprehensive scores using the membership function method. Furthermore, a stepwise regression analysis identified 15 key traits for identifying apple germplasms, including the vegetative growth day, fruit weight, and the firmness of the fruit without skin. These results can serve as the foundation for future analyses of the phenotypic diversity of apple germplasms, while also providing a theoretical basis for screening, characterizing, and further improving excellent apple germplasms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Genetic Diversity Evaluation of the Fruit Trees)
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25 pages, 12903 KiB  
Article
Experimental Investigations and Optimum Performance Evaluation of Wire-EDM Characteristics of Aluminium 6061-Magnesite Composites
by Matheshwaran Saminathan, Solaiyappan Ayyappan, Sivanandi Periyasamy and Mahalingam Sivakumar
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1200; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061200 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
It is essential to determine the most suitable machining method for magnesite-reinforced Aluminium 6061 composites, which possess excellent mechanical properties, especially notable tensile strength and hardness. The composites were produced using a stir-casting technique, incorporating reinforcements of lightly-calcined magnesite, dead burnt magnesite, and [...] Read more.
It is essential to determine the most suitable machining method for magnesite-reinforced Aluminium 6061 composites, which possess excellent mechanical properties, especially notable tensile strength and hardness. The composites were produced using a stir-casting technique, incorporating reinforcements of lightly-calcined magnesite, dead burnt magnesite, and waste magnesite in weight fractions of 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% within an aluminium 6061 matrix. Wire electrical discharge machining was employed to investigate the machining characteristics of these composites, using controllable process parameters such as cutting speed, pulse-on and pulse-off times, and the weight fraction of magnesites. Two performance indicators such as surface roughness and material removal rate were tested for various parameter combinations by central composite design. To comprehend the impact of the study parameters, contour charts were drawn. MRR increases at a high cutting speed of 2 mm/min when the pulse-on time changes from 120 μs to 125 μs. SR increases when the pulse-on times above 120 μs at all cutting speeds. High cutting speeds make high MRR irrespective of the weight fractions of reinforcement. High pulse-on times make the material melt more, which increases the material removal rate. Because specimen surface material erodes quickly and forms microcracks, high pulse-on time also results in high surface roughness. To optimize the WEDM machining conditions for each composite, hybrid SSO-DF and DFO-DF optimizers were developed by combining the desirability function with Salp-swarm optimization and Dragonfly optimization algorithms. The cutting speed of 2 mm/min and the pulse-on time of 114 μs produce the best performances on the composites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Processes)
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17 pages, 1481 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Changes in In-Store and Online Shopping Frequencies Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study from Bahrain
by Eman A. Algherbal, Hussam I. Hijazi, Hassan M. Al-Ahmadi and Muhammad Abdullah
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 4996; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16124996 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Online shopping (e-shopping) has been growing steadily in recent years; however, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a sudden increase in this growth. This study compares the in-store shopping and e-shopping frequencies within three distinct periods, i.e., before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. [...] Read more.
Online shopping (e-shopping) has been growing steadily in recent years; however, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a sudden increase in this growth. This study compares the in-store shopping and e-shopping frequencies within three distinct periods, i.e., before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. It further investigates the frequencies and determinants of e-shopping across the three periods. The data on the in-store shopping and e-shopping frequencies for four different product categories, i.e., grocery, household essentials, electronics, and clothes, were collected through an online questionnaire in Bahrain, resulting in a total of 401 valid responses. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were conducted to compare the frequencies of in-store shopping and e-shopping within the three periods as well as the frequencies of e-shopping across the three periods. The effects of the determinants of e-shopping were evaluated using chi-square tests. The results revealed that e-shopping experienced a temporary surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, returning to pre-pandemic levels afterward. The frequency of e-shopping varied across product categories and periods, and e-shopping during the pandemic was higher than before. However, no significant difference was found between the periods during and after the pandemic. This study provides insights for urban and transport planners regarding the frequencies and determinants of e-shopping behavior in the context of pandemics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economic and Social Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic)
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25 pages, 4056 KiB  
Article
Beneficial In Vitro Effects of Polysaccharide and Non-Polysaccharide Components of Dendrobium huoshanense on Gut Microbiota of Rats with Type 1 Diabetes as Opposed to Metformin
by Haijun Xu, Zhu Liu, Wen Xu and Yafei Zhang
Molecules 2024, 29(12), 2791; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29122791 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The extract of Dendrobium huoshanense, a traditional Chinese medicinal and food homologous plant belonging to the family Orchidaceae, was previously reported to have hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects. In this study, the direct effects of polysaccharide (DHP) and non-polysaccharide (NDHP) components of D. [...] Read more.
The extract of Dendrobium huoshanense, a traditional Chinese medicinal and food homologous plant belonging to the family Orchidaceae, was previously reported to have hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects. In this study, the direct effects of polysaccharide (DHP) and non-polysaccharide (NDHP) components of D. huoshanense, as well as its water extract (DHWE) were compared with that of metformin (an antidiabetic drug) on the gut microbiota (collected from fecal flora) of rats with streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes (T1D) using an in vitro fermentation method. The results showed that DHWE, DHP, and NDHP reduced pH and increased bacterial proliferation and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content in fermentation broth. DHWE, DHP, NDHP and metformin promoted the production of acetic and propionic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid and butyric acid, and propionic acid, respectively. DHWE, DHP, and NDHP reduced the abundance of Proteobacteria (subdominant pathogenic bacteria) and increased the abundance of Firmicutes (dominant beneficial gut bacteria). NDHP also reduced the abundance of Bacteroidetes (beneficial and conditional pathogenic). Metformin increased the abundance of Proteobacteria and reduced the abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. At the genus level, NDHP promoted the proliferation of Megamonas and Megasphaera and decreased harmful bacteria (e.g., Klebsiella), and DHP increased the abundance of Prevotellaceae (opportunistic and usually harmless). By contrast, metformin increased the abundance of harmful bacteria (e.g., Citrobacter) and reduced the abundance of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Oscillospira). Our study indicates that DHWE, DHP, and NDHP are potentially more beneficial than metformin on the gut microbiota of T1D rats in vitro. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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14 pages, 1595 KiB  
Article
El Hierro Genome Study: A Genomic and Health Study in an Isolated Canary Island Population
by Marta Puga, Javier G. Serrano, Elsa L. García, Mario A. González Carracedo, Rubén Jiménez-Canino, María Pino-Yanes, Robert Karlsson, Patrick F. Sullivan and Rosa Fregel
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 626; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060626 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
El Hierro is the smallest and westernmost island of the Canary Islands, whose population derives from an admixture of different ancestral components and that has been subjected to genetic isolation. We established the “El Hierro Genome Study” to characterize the health status and [...] Read more.
El Hierro is the smallest and westernmost island of the Canary Islands, whose population derives from an admixture of different ancestral components and that has been subjected to genetic isolation. We established the “El Hierro Genome Study” to characterize the health status and the genetic composition of ~10% of the current population of the island, accounting for a total of 1054 participants. Detailed demographic and clinical data and a blood sample for DNA extraction were obtained from each participant. Genomic genotyping was performed with the Global Screening Array (Illumina). The genetic composition of El Hierro was analyzed in a subset of 416 unrelated individuals by characterizing the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosome haplogroups and performing principal component analyses (PCAs). In order to explore signatures of isolation, runs of homozygosity (ROHs) were also estimated. Among the participants, high blood pressure, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes were the most prevalent conditions. The most common mtDNA haplogroups observed were of North African indigenous origin, while the Y-chromosome ones were mainly European. The PCA showed that the El Hierro population clusters near 1000 Genomes’ European population but with a shift toward African populations. Moreover, the ROH analysis revealed some individuals with an important portion of their genomes with ROHs exceeding 400 Mb. Overall, these results confirmed that the “El Hierro Genome” cohort offers an opportunity to study the genetic basis of several diseases in an unexplored isolated population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Omics/Informatics)
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11 pages, 2338 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Pre-Transfusion Crossmatch Test Using Microscanner C3
by Insu Park, Woong Sik Jang, Chae Seung Lim and Jeeyong Kim
Diagnostics 2024, 14(12), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14121231 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
A pre-transfusion crossmatch test is crucial for ensuring safe blood transfusions by identifying the compatibility between donor and recipient blood samples. Conventional tube methods for crossmatching have limitations, including subjectivity in result interpretation and the potential for human error. In this study, we [...] Read more.
A pre-transfusion crossmatch test is crucial for ensuring safe blood transfusions by identifying the compatibility between donor and recipient blood samples. Conventional tube methods for crossmatching have limitations, including subjectivity in result interpretation and the potential for human error. In this study, we evaluated the diagnostic performance of a new crossmatch test using Microscanner C3, which can overcome these shortcomings. The crossmatch test results using the method were obtained in 323 clinical samples. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and concordance rate of the crossmatch test using Microscanner C3 were 98.20%, 100.00%, 100.00%, 98.11%, and 99.07%, respectively. The diagnostic performance of the new system offers a promising alternative to conventional tube methods for pre-transfusion crossmatch testing. Microscanner C3 could also increase the automation, standardization, and accuracy of crossmatch tests. The crossmatch test using Microscanner C3 is thought to increase the efficiency and reliability in identifying blood samples suitable for transfusion, thereby improving patient safety and optimizing the use of blood products in clinical settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Useful Diagnostic Method: Blood Test)
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13 pages, 2944 KiB  
Article
Theoretical Study of the Thermal Rate Coefficients of the H3+ + C2H4 Reaction: Dynamics Study on a Full-Dimensional Potential Energy Surface
by Tatsuhiro Murakami, Soma Takahashi, Yuya Kikuma and Toshiyuki Takayanagi
Molecules 2024, 29(12), 2789; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29122789 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ion–molecular reactions play a significant role in molecular evolution within the interstellar medium. In this study, the entrance channel reaction, H3+ + C2H4 → H2 + C2H5+, was investigated using classical molecular [...] Read more.
Ion–molecular reactions play a significant role in molecular evolution within the interstellar medium. In this study, the entrance channel reaction, H3+ + C2H4 → H2 + C2H5+, was investigated using classical molecular dynamic (classical MD) and ring polymer molecular dynamic (RPMD) simulation techniques. We developed an analytical potential energy surface function with a permutationally invariant polynomial basis, specifically employing the monomial symmetrized approach. Our dynamic simulations reproduced the rate coefficient of 300 K for H3+ + C2H4 → H2 + C2H5+, aligning reasonably well with the values in the kinetic database commonly utilized in astrochemistry. The thermal rate coefficients obtained using both the classical MD and RPMD techniques exhibited an increase from 100 K to 300 K as the temperature rose. Additionally, we analyzed the excess energy distribution of the C2H5+ fragment with respect to temperature to investigate the indirect reaction pathway of C2H5+ → H2 + C2H3+. This result suggests that the indirect reaction pathway of C2H5+ → H2 + C2H3+ holds minor significance, although the distribution highly depends on the collisional temperature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Computational and Theoretical Chemistry)
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