The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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18 pages, 11490 KiB  
Article
Mapping Soil Properties in the Haihun River Sub-Watershed, Yangtze River Basin, China, by Integrating Machine Learning and Variable Selection
by Jun Huang, Jia Liu, Yingcong Ye, Yameng Jiang, Yuying Lai, Xianbing Qin, Lin Zhang and Yefeng Jiang
Sensors 2024, 24(12), 3784; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24123784 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mapping soil properties in sub-watersheds is critical for agricultural productivity, land management, and ecological security. Machine learning has been widely applied to digital soil mapping due to a rapidly increasing number of environmental covariates. However, the inclusion of many environmental covariates in machine [...] Read more.
Mapping soil properties in sub-watersheds is critical for agricultural productivity, land management, and ecological security. Machine learning has been widely applied to digital soil mapping due to a rapidly increasing number of environmental covariates. However, the inclusion of many environmental covariates in machine learning models leads to the problem of multicollinearity, with poorly understood consequences for prediction performance. Here, we explored the effects of variable selection on the prediction performance of two machine learning models for multiple soil properties in the Haihun River sub-watershed, Jiangxi Province, China. Surface soils (0–20 cm) were collected from a total of 180 sample points in 2022. The optimal covariates were selected from 40 environmental covariates using a recursive feature elimination algorithm. Compared to all-variable models, the random forest (RF) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) models with variable selection improved in prediction accuracy. The R2 values of the RF and XGBoost models increased by 0.34 and 0.47 for the soil organic carbon, by 0.67 and 0.62 for the total phosphorus, and by 0.43 and 0.62 for the available phosphorus, respectively. The models with variable selection presented reduced global uncertainty, and the overall uncertainty of the RF model was lower than that of the XGBoost model. The soil properties showed high spatial heterogeneity based on the models with variable selection. Remote sensing covariates (particularly principal component 2) were the major factors controlling the distribution of the soil organic carbon. Human activity covariates (mainly land use) and organism covariates (mainly potential evapotranspiration) played a predominant role in driving the distribution of the soil total and soil available phosphorus, respectively. This study indicates the importance of variable selection for predicting multiple soil properties and mapping their spatial distribution in sub-watersheds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Sensing and Mapping in Precision Agriculture)
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22 pages, 7922 KiB  
Article
Flexible Permeable-Pavement System Sustainability: A Methodology for Stormwater Management Based on PM Granulometry
by Vittorio Ranieri, Stefano Coropulis, Veronica Fedele, Paolo Intini and John Joseph Sansalone
Infrastructures 2024, 9(6), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures9060095 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Permeable-pavement design methodologies can improve the hydrologic and therefore the environmental benefits of rural and urban roadway systems. By contrast, conventional impervious pavements perturb the hydrologic cycle, altering the relationship between the rainfall loading and runoff response. Impervious pavements create a hydraulically conductive [...] Read more.
Permeable-pavement design methodologies can improve the hydrologic and therefore the environmental benefits of rural and urban roadway systems. By contrast, conventional impervious pavements perturb the hydrologic cycle, altering the relationship between the rainfall loading and runoff response. Impervious pavements create a hydraulically conductive interface for the transport of traffic-generated chemicals and particulate matter (PM), deleteriously impacting their proximate environments. Permeable-pavement systems are countermeasures to mitigate hydrologic, chemical, and PM impacts. However, permeable pavements are not always equally implementable due to costs, PM loadings, and design constraints. A potential solution to facilitate environmental benefits while meeting the traffic load capacity is the combination of two filtration systems placed at the pavement shoulders and/or pedestrian sidewalks: a bituminous-pavement open-graded friction course (BPFC) and an aggregate-filled infiltration trench. This solution is presented in this manuscript together with the methodological framework and the first results of the investigations into designing and validating such a combined system. The research was conducted at the laboratories of the Polytechnic University of Bari and the University of Florida, while an operational and full-scale physical model was constructed in Bari, Italy. The first results presented characterize the PM deposition on public roads based on granulometry (particle size distributions (PSDs) and particle number densities (PNDs)). Samples (n = 16) were collected and analyzed at eight different sites with different land uses, traffic, and pavements from different cities (Bari and Taranto, Italy). The PM analysis showed similar distributions (PSDs and PNDs), except for two samples. The gravimetric-based PSDs of the PM had granulometric distributions in the sand-size range. In contrast, the PNDs, modeled by a Power Law Model (PLM) (R2 ≥ 0.92), illustrated an exponentially increasing number of particles in the fine silt and clay-size range, representing less than 10% of the PSD mass. Moreover, the results indicate that PM sourced from permeable-pavement systems has differing impacts on the pavement service life. Full article
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15 pages, 6787 KiB  
Review
Dual-Energy and Photon-Counting Computed Tomography in Vascular Applications—Technical Background and Post-Processing Techniques
by Marcin Stański, Ilona Michałowska, Adam Lemanowicz, Katarzyna Karmelita-Katulska, Przemysław Ratajczak, Agata Sławińska and Zbigniew Serafin
Diagnostics 2024, 14(12), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14121223 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
The field of computed tomography (CT), which is a basic diagnostic tool in clinical practice, has recently undergone rapid technological advances. These include the evolution of dual-energy CT (DECT) and development of photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT). DECT enables the acquisition of CT images [...] Read more.
The field of computed tomography (CT), which is a basic diagnostic tool in clinical practice, has recently undergone rapid technological advances. These include the evolution of dual-energy CT (DECT) and development of photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT). DECT enables the acquisition of CT images at two different energy spectra, which allows for the differentiation of certain materials, mainly calcium and iodine. PCCT is a recent technology that enables a scanner to quantify the energy of each photon gathered by the detector. This method gives the possibility to decrease the radiation dose and increase the spatial and temporal resolutions of scans. Both of these techniques have found a wide range of applications in radiology, including vascular studies. In this narrative review, the authors present the principles of DECT and PCCT, outline their advantages and drawbacks, and briefly discuss the application of these methods in vascular radiology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computed Tomography Imaging in Medical Diagnosis)
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14 pages, 2927 KiB  
Article
Embedding Enhancement Method for LightGCN in Recommendation Information Systems
by Sangmin Lee, Junho Ahn and Namgi Kim
Electronics 2024, 13(12), 2282; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13122282 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the modern digital age, users are exposed to a vast amount of content and information, and the importance of recommendation systems is increasing accordingly. Traditional recommendation systems mainly use matrix factorization and collaborative filtering methods, but problems with scalability due to an [...] Read more.
In the modern digital age, users are exposed to a vast amount of content and information, and the importance of recommendation systems is increasing accordingly. Traditional recommendation systems mainly use matrix factorization and collaborative filtering methods, but problems with scalability due to an increase in the amount of data and slow learning and inference speeds occur due to an increase in the amount of computation. To overcome these problems, this study focused on optimizing LightGCN, the basic structure of the graph-convolution-network-based recommendation system. To improve this, techniques and structures were proposed. We propose an embedding enhancement method to strengthen the robustness of embedding and a non-combination structure to overcome LightGCN’s weight sum structure through this method. To verify the proposed method, we have demonstrated its effectiveness through experiments using the SELFRec library on various datasets, such as Yelp2018, MovieLens-1M, FilmTrust, and Douban-book. Mainly, significant performance improvements were observed in key indicators, such as Precision, Recall, NDCG, and Hit Ratio in Yelp2018 and Douban-book datasets. These results suggest that the proposed methods effectively improved the recommendation performance and learning efficiency of the LightGCN model, and the improvement of LightGCN, which is most widely used as a backbone network, makes an important contribution to the entire field of GCN-based recommendation systems. Therefore, in this study, we improved the learning method of the existing LightGCN and changed the weight sum structure to surpass the existing accuracy. Full article
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4 pages, 220 KiB  
Editorial
Self–Assembled Complexes: “Love at First Sight”
by Ana M. García-Deibe and Jesús Sanmartín-Matalobos
Crystals 2024, 14(6), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14060544 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Self-assembly is a key process to obtain auto-organized species from disordered components [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Self-Assembled Complexes: “Love at First Sight”)
15 pages, 3028 KiB  
Article
Effect of Salt-Induced Stress on the Calorific Value of Two Miscanthus sacchariflorus (Amur Silvergrass) Varieties
by Hailong Lu, Ling Li, Jingbo Chen, Jackson Nkoh Nkoh, Dongli Hao, Jianjian Li, Jingjing Wang, Dandan Li, Jianxiu Liu, Hailin Guo and Junqin Zong
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1259; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061259 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate the relationship between the caloric value and salt tolerance of two varieties of Miscanthus sacchariflorus (Amur silvergrass: M127 and M022). The salt tolerance capacity, photosynthetic characteristics, Na+ and K+ uptake by the roots and aboveground [...] Read more.
This study was designed to investigate the relationship between the caloric value and salt tolerance of two varieties of Miscanthus sacchariflorus (Amur silvergrass: M127 and M022). The salt tolerance capacity, photosynthetic characteristics, Na+ and K+ uptake by the roots and aboveground parts, and caloric value of different parts of the aboveground parts were obtained under hydroponic conditions. The results showed that M022 was more tolerant to salt stress than M127 and the former had a higher photosynthetic efficiency as well as a lower aboveground Na+ accumulation, K+ efflux, and larger K+/Na+ ratio. The calorific values of stems, spear leaves, aging leaves, and functional leaves of the two varieties showed a decreasing trend with increasing NaCl concentration. At 270 mM NaCl, the calorific values of the stems, aging leaves, functional leaves, and spear leaves was reduced by 18.10%, 46.73%, 26.11%, and 18.35% for M022 and 41.99%, 39.41%, 34.82%, and 45.09% for M127 compared to the controls, respectively. We observed that the aging leaves of M022 had a faster decline rate in calorific value than those of M127, indicating that the aging leaves of M022 preferentially isolated the harmful Na+ ion, reduced its accumulation in other parts, and increased the K+/Na+ ratio in the corresponding parts, thus inhibiting the decrease in calorific value. Following this result, it can be inferred that M022 inhibited the decline in calorific values during stress by efficiently compartmentalizing the distribution of Na+ and K+. Our results provide a theoretical basis and technical support for the efficient cultivation of salt-tolerant energy plants in saline–alkaline soil. Full article
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13 pages, 2247 KiB  
Article
Immunohistochemical Profiling of SSTR2 and HIF-2α with the Tumor Microenvironment in Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma
by Masaki Uchihara, Akiyo Tanabe, Yuki Kojima, Tatsunori Shimoi, Akiko Miyagi Maeshima, Kotaro Umamoto, Akihiko Shimomura, Chikako Shimizu, Yuto Yamazaki, Eijiro Nakamura, Yoshiyuki Matsui, Nobuyuki Takemura, Hideyo Miyazaki, Kazuki Sudo, Kan Yonemori and Hiroshi Kajio
Cancers 2024, 16(12), 2191; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16122191 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Metastatic pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) are rare endocrine malignancies with limited effective treatment options. The association between the tumor microenvironment (TME) with somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2) and hypoxia-induced factor-2α (HIF-2α) in PPGLs, critical for optimizing combination therapeutic strategies with immunotherapy, remains largely unexplored. [...] Read more.
Metastatic pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) are rare endocrine malignancies with limited effective treatment options. The association between the tumor microenvironment (TME) with somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2) and hypoxia-induced factor-2α (HIF-2α) in PPGLs, critical for optimizing combination therapeutic strategies with immunotherapy, remains largely unexplored. To evaluate the association of SSTR2 and HIF-2α immunoreactivity with the TME in patients with PPGLs, we analyzed the expression of SSTR2A, HIF-2α, and TME components, including tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (CD4 and CD8), tumor-associated macrophages (CD68 and CD163), and PD-L1, using immunohistochemistry in patients with PPGLs. The primary outcome was to determine the association of the immune profiles with SSTR2A and HIF-2α expression. Among 45 patients with PPGLs, SSTR2A and HIF2α were positively expressed in 21 (46.7%) and 14 (31.1%) patients, respectively. The median PD-L1 immunohistochemical score (IHS) was 2.0 (interquartile range: 0–30.0). Positive correlations were observed between CD4, CD8, CD68, and CD163 levels. A negative correlation was found between the CD163/CD68 ratio (an indicator of M2 polarization) and SSTR2A expression (r = −0.385, p = 0.006). HIF-2α expression showed a positive correlation with PD-L1 IHS (r = 0.348, p = 0.013). The co-expression of PD-L1 (HIS > 10) and HIF-2α was found in seven patients (15.6%). No associations were observed between SDHB staining results and the CD163/CD68 ratio, PD-L1, or SSTR2A expression. Our data suggest the potential of combination therapy with immunotherapy and peptide receptor radionuclide therapy or HIF-2α inhibitors as a treatment option in selected PPGL populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Tumor Microenvironment)
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25 pages, 4788 KiB  
Article
Hybrid Waste-to-Energy Solutions within a Circular Economy Framework Directed towards Sustainable Urban Waste Management in Ghana
by Ekua Afrakoma Armoo, Satyanarayana Narra, Mutala Mohammed, Belinda Boahemaa, Essossinam Beguedou, Francis Kemausuor and Francis Boateng Agyenim
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 4976; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16124976 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Cities in developing countries continue to struggle with mounting waste management challenges. Within a circular economy framework, energy recovery is mostly nonexistent. Against that background, this study aimed to design and assess the viability of a hybrid waste-to-energy facility for the Greater Accra [...] Read more.
Cities in developing countries continue to struggle with mounting waste management challenges. Within a circular economy framework, energy recovery is mostly nonexistent. Against that background, this study aimed to design and assess the viability of a hybrid waste-to-energy facility for the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) in Ghana by 2030. The proposed plant integrates solar PV, anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis to treat unsegregated municipal solid waste. Three cases were developed for different product combinations. Material flow analysis was performed with STAN software 2.7.101. The results indicate that 1.6 million tons of MSW will be generated, to be potentially converted to 271 GWh of electricity, 6400 tons of hydrogen or 4400 tons of bio-compressed natural gas per year, along with additional products: compost, refuse-derived fuel and bio-oil. The economic indicators show that all cases are potentially viable in terms of the net present value (EUR 397 to 1030 million), internal rate of return (14–22%) and levelized cost of energy (0.11–0.18 EUR/kWh). As such, this study proves that waste to energy is a viable waste management solution for large metropolitan areas, with the potential to supply energy, alternative fuels and material products within a circular economy, though it requires the buy-in of policy makers. Full article
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11 pages, 289 KiB  
Article
Unveiling the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Lung Cancer Surgery
by Gabriel Veniamin Cozma, Calin Muntean, Alaviana Monique Faur, Vasile Gaborean, Ioan Adrian Petrache and Catalin Vladut Ionut Feier
Medicina 2024, 60(6), 964; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60060964 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the surgical treatment of lung cancer patients. Data from patients who underwent surgery during the pandemic were analyzed and compared to pre-pandemic and post-pandemic periods. Multiple parameters were [...] Read more.
The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the surgical treatment of lung cancer patients. Data from patients who underwent surgery during the pandemic were analyzed and compared to pre-pandemic and post-pandemic periods. Multiple parameters were examined, and their changes yielded significant results compared to other periods of the study. The statistical analysis revealed a significant decrease in the number of surgical interventions during the pandemic (p < 0.001), followed by a significant rebound thereafter. During this period, there was a significant increase in the T stage of cancer compared to both pre-pandemic and post-pandemic periods (p = 0.027). Additionally, the mean Charlson comorbidity index score was significantly higher during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period (p = 0.042). In this crisis period, a significant decrease was recorded in both the total hospitalization duration (p = 0.015) and the pre-operative hospitalization duration (p = 0.006). These findings provide evidence of significant changes in clinical and therapeutic strategies applied to lung cancer surgery patients during the study period. The pandemic has had a substantial and complex impact, the full extent of which remains to be fully understood. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact on Human Health, Lifestyle and Quality of Care after COVID-19)
17 pages, 4083 KiB  
Article
Screening of Miscanthus Genotypes for Sustainable Production of Microcrystalline Cellulose and Cellulose Nanocrystals
by Weiming Liu, Lanqing You, Sheng Wang, Jie Li, Zhiyong Chen, Buchun Si, Yasir Iqbal, Shuai Xue, Tongcheng Fu, Zili Yi and Meng Li
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061255 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Miscanthus spp. has been regarded as a promising industrial plant for the sustainable production of bio-based materials. To assess its potential for microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) production, 50 representative clones of M. sinensis and M. floridulus were selected from a [...] Read more.
Miscanthus spp. has been regarded as a promising industrial plant for the sustainable production of bio-based materials. To assess its potential for microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) production, 50 representative clones of M. sinensis and M. floridulus were selected from a nationwide collection showcasing the extensive diversity of germplasm resources. Descriptive analysis indicates that the dry biomass weight of M. floridulus is advantageous whereas M. sinensis demonstrates higher MCC and CNCs yields as well as a smaller CNCs particle size. Correlation analyses indicated that MCC yield is solely influenced by the cellulose content whereas the yield of CNCs is affected by both the cellulose content and CrI. Comparative analyses of the chemical composition, physical features (degree of polymerization, crystalline index, particle size distribution and zeta potential), and scanning electron microscopy indicated that the MCC and CNCs extracted from M. sinensis and M. floridulus exhibited remarkable stability and quality. Additionally, the CNCs derived from M. sinensis and M. floridulus exhibited a distinctive ball-shaped structure. Notably, machine learning has demonstrated its efficacy and effectiveness in the high-throughput screening of large populations of Miscanthus spp. for predicting the yield of MCC and CNCs. Our results have also laid the theoretical foundation for the exploration, cultivation, and genetic breeding of M. sinensis and M. floridulus germplasm resources with the purpose of MCC and CNCs preparation. Full article
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15 pages, 533 KiB  
Article
Girls’ Reluctance and Intersectional Identities in STEM-Rich Makerspaces
by Priyanka Parekh
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14060628 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Craft and e-textile circuits are technologies that bridge the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning. Acknowledging the need to study girls’ underrepresentation in STEM, this article delves into the identity negotiations of four girls aged eleven to fourteen as [...] Read more.
Craft and e-textile circuits are technologies that bridge the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning. Acknowledging the need to study girls’ underrepresentation in STEM, this article delves into the identity negotiations of four girls aged eleven to fourteen as they construct craft and e-textiles at a library makerspace. Qualitative analysis of their talk at the workshop found that several factors shaped the girls’ identity work, such as their awareness of their abilities and fellow participants’ projects, their understanding of parents’ expectations, and their strengths in other STEM domains. While all four girls reluctantly participated in making circuits, the reason for their reluctance varied from an interest in craft and the messiness of working with conductive thread to the preference for familiarity and complexity within other STEM domains such as programming and engineering. Further, as the girls questioned their need to engage in circuit-making, their preference for a particular identity became apparent. Overall, this study’s findings underscore the tensions in learning in technology-rich environments such as makerspaces, highlighting maker technologies’ affordances and limitations and emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of what shapes learners’ participation and identities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrating Technology into K-12 Science Education)
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15 pages, 1996 KiB  
Article
Temperature Effects of Nuclear and Electronic Stopping Power on Si and C Radiation Damage in 3C-SiC
by Ewelina Kucal, Przemysław Jóźwik, Cyprian Mieszczyński, René Heller, Shavkat Akhmadaliev, Christian Dufour and Konrad Czerski
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2843; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122843 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Silicon carbide has been considered a material for use in the construction of advanced high-temperature nuclear reactors. However, one of the most important design issues for future reactors is the development of structural defects in SiC under a strong irradiation field at high [...] Read more.
Silicon carbide has been considered a material for use in the construction of advanced high-temperature nuclear reactors. However, one of the most important design issues for future reactors is the development of structural defects in SiC under a strong irradiation field at high temperatures. To understand how high temperatures affect radiation damage, SiC single crystals were irradiated at room temperature and after being heated to 800 °C with carbon and silicon ions of energies ranging between 0.5 and 21 MeV. The number of displaced atoms and the disorder parameters have been estimated by using the channeling Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. The experimentally determined depth profiles of induced defects at room temperature agree very well with theoretical calculations assuming its proportionality to the electronic and nuclear-stopping power values. On the other hand, a significant reduction in the number of crystal defects was observed for irradiations performed at high temperatures or for samples annealed after irradiation. Additionally, indications of saturation of the crystal defect concentration were observed for higher fluences and the irradiation of previously defected samples. Full article
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13 pages, 1427 KiB  
Article
Free Radical Scavenging Effect and Immunomodulatory Activity of Total Saponins Extract of Ginseng Fibrous Roots
by Peng Zhang, Dongyan Zhang, Chuanjie Ma, Ruxia Wang and Weili Wang
Molecules 2024, 29(12), 2770; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29122770 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Mey) is known for its rich saponin compounds and tonic effects. To better utilize the medicinal value of ginseng, this study investigated the extraction process, components, free radical scavenging ability, and immunomodulatory activity of total saponins of ginseng fibrous [...] Read more.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Mey) is known for its rich saponin compounds and tonic effects. To better utilize the medicinal value of ginseng, this study investigated the extraction process, components, free radical scavenging ability, and immunomodulatory activity of total saponins of ginseng fibrous roots. The response surface methodology was employed to optimize the extraction process of total saponins, and Q-Orbitrap high-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was used to identify the chemical constituents in the total saponins extract of ginseng fibrous roots (GRS). The results showed that the optimal extraction process was achieved with an ethanol concentration of 68%, a material–solvent ratio of 1:25 mL/g, and an extraction time of 20 min, yielding a total saponin content of 6.34% under these conditions. The extract contained four terpenoid compounds and four polyphenolic compounds. GRS exhibited considerable scavenging activity against DPPH and ABTS radicals, with IC50 values of 0.893 and 0.210 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, GRS restored immune suppression in mice by increasing white blood cell, red blood cell, and neutrophil counts, and improving the lymphocyte. It also promoted immune system recovery, as evidenced by elevated serum levels of IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1β in mice. GRS is a natural compound with promising potential for developing antioxidants and immunomodulatory foods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Plant: From Determination to Application)
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26 pages, 415 KiB  
Article
Do Internal Corporate Governance Practices Influence Stock Price Volatility? Evidence from Egyptian Non-Financial Firms
by Mohamed Sherif, Doaa El-Diftar and Tamer Shahwan
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2024, 17(6), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17060243 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
The objective of this research paper is to investigate the association between internal Corporate Governance (CG) mechanisms and stock price volatility in Egypt as an emerging market. The paper investigates the impact of ownership structure and board structure as internal CG mechanisms on [...] Read more.
The objective of this research paper is to investigate the association between internal Corporate Governance (CG) mechanisms and stock price volatility in Egypt as an emerging market. The paper investigates the impact of ownership structure and board structure as internal CG mechanisms on stock price volatility. Data are analyzed using a two-way fixed effects model, a one-step dynamic panel data model, and a panel weighted least squares model. The study concluded that ownership concentration has a negative influence on volatility. Interestingly, an inverted U-shaped relationship between the percentage of ownership by the greatest shareholder and volatility is evidenced. Managerial ownership also showed a negative influence on volatility. As for board structure mechanisms, the findings show that both board size and frequency of board meetings negatively influence volatility, whereas board independence has a positive impact. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economics and Finance)
16 pages, 10135 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Daily Living Activities of Older People (2004–2023): A Bibliometric and Visual Analysis
by Ying Cui and Mankyu Choi
Healthcare 2024, 12(12), 1180; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12121180 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
With a rapidly aging global population, comprehending the risks associated with older people’s activities of daily living is increasingly important; yet, interdisciplinary analyses remain rare. By providing a bibliometric overview of the capability risks associated with older people’s activities of daily living, in [...] Read more.
With a rapidly aging global population, comprehending the risks associated with older people’s activities of daily living is increasingly important; yet, interdisciplinary analyses remain rare. By providing a bibliometric overview of the capability risks associated with older people’s activities of daily living, in order to identify prevailing trends and future directions in the field, the study aims to fill this gap. Using CiteSpace software to analyze data from 928 articles published between 2004 and 2023, the study results demonstrate the growing interest in the capability risks of older people’s activities of daily living, with the United States leading in the number of publications, and geriatrics emerging as the dominant discipline. Notably, Institut National de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale (Inserm) in France emerges as a pivotal contributor in the field. Key research topics encompass risk factors associated with a decline in daily activities and disease-related studies, with emerging trends in cognitive function and instrumental activity research. Future research should prioritize the development of predictive mechanisms for daily living trends, exploration of caregiving solutions, and promotion of interdisciplinary collaboration. This study highlights promising avenues for further research, emphasizing the importance of predictive modeling, innovative caregiving strategies, and interdisciplinary cooperation in addressing capability risks in the activities of daily living of older people. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Communications Challenges in Health and Well-Being)
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16 pages, 748 KiB  
Review
Genetic Variants Influence the Development of Diabetic Neuropathy
by Noémi Hajdú, Ramóna Rácz, Dóra Zsuzsanna Tordai, Magdolna Békeffy, Orsolya Erzsébet Vági, Ildikó Istenes, Anna Erzsébet Körei, Peter Kempler and Zsuzsanna Putz
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(12), 6429; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25126429 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
The exact mechanism by which diabetic neuropathy develops is still not fully known, despite our advances in medical knowledge. Progressing neuropathy may occur with a persistently favorable metabolic status in some patients with diabetes mellitus, while, in others, though seldom, a persistently unfavorable [...] Read more.
The exact mechanism by which diabetic neuropathy develops is still not fully known, despite our advances in medical knowledge. Progressing neuropathy may occur with a persistently favorable metabolic status in some patients with diabetes mellitus, while, in others, though seldom, a persistently unfavorable metabolic status is not associated with significant neuropathy. This might be significantly due to genetic differences. While recent years have brought compelling progress in the understanding of the pathogenetic background—in particular, accelerated progress is being made in understanding molecular biological mechanisms—some aspects are still not fully understood. A comparatively small amount of information is accessible on this matter; therefore, by summarizing the available data, in this review, we aim to provide a clearer picture of the current state of knowledge, identify gaps in the previous studies, and possibly suggest directions for future studies. This could help in developing more personalized approaches to the prevention and treatment of diabetic neuropathy, while also taking into account individual genetic profiles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Diagnosis and Treatments of Diabetes Mellitus)
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17 pages, 1251 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Effects of Digital Health Interventions for Pulmonary Rehabilitation in People with COPD: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
by Aseel Aburub, Mohammad Z. Darabseh, Rahaf Badran, Owis Eilayyan, Ala’a M. Shurrab and Hans Degens
Medicina 2024, 60(6), 963; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60060963 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third most common cause of death globally. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programmes are important to reduce COPD symptoms and improve the quality of life of people with COPD. Digital health interventions have recently [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third most common cause of death globally. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programmes are important to reduce COPD symptoms and improve the quality of life of people with COPD. Digital health interventions have recently been adopted in PR programmes, which allow people with COPD to participate in such programmes with low barriers. The aim of this study is to review and discuss the reported effects of digital health interventions on PR outcomes in people with COPD. Materials and Methods: To achieve the study goals, a systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed (MEDLINE), CINAHL, AMED, SPORTDiscus and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database. Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) were included if they met specified criteria. Two reviewers independently checked titles, abstracts, and performed full-text screening and data extraction. The quality assessment and risk of bias were performed in accordance with the PEDRO scale and Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2, respectively. Results: Thirteen RCTs were included in this systematic review with 1525 participants with COPD. This systematic review showed the potential positive effect of digital health PR on the exercise capacity—measured by 6- and 12-min walking tests, pulmonary function, dyspnoea and health-related quality of life. There was no evidence for advantages of digital health PR in the improvement of anxiety, depression, and self-efficacy. Conclusions: Digital health PR is more effective than traditional PR in improving the pulmonary and physical outcomes for people with COPD, but there was no difference between the two PR programmes in improving the psychosocial outcomes. The certainty of the findings of this review is affected by the small number of included studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pulmonary)
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37 pages, 9291 KiB  
Article
New Heterostilbene and Triazole Oximes as Potential CNS-Active and Cholinesterase-Targeted Therapeutics
by Milena Mlakić, Tena Čadež, Goran Šinko, Irena Škorić and Zrinka Kovarik
Biomolecules 2024, 14(6), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14060679 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
New furan, thiophene, and triazole oximes were synthesized through several-step reaction paths to investigate their potential for the development of central nervous systems (CNS)-active and cholinesterase-targeted therapeutics in organophosphorus compound (OP) poisonings. Treating patients with acute OP poisoning is still a challenge despite [...] Read more.
New furan, thiophene, and triazole oximes were synthesized through several-step reaction paths to investigate their potential for the development of central nervous systems (CNS)-active and cholinesterase-targeted therapeutics in organophosphorus compound (OP) poisonings. Treating patients with acute OP poisoning is still a challenge despite the development of a large number of oxime compounds that should have the capacity to reactivate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). The activity of these two enzymes, crucial for neurotransmission, is blocked by OP, which has the consequence of disturbing normal cholinergic nerve signal transduction in the peripheral and CNS, leading to a cholinergic crisis. The oximes in use have one or two pyridinium rings and cross the brain–blood barrier poorly due to the quaternary nitrogen. Following our recent study on 2-thienostilbene oximes, in this paper, we described the synthesis of 63 heterostilbene derivatives, of which 26 oximes were tested as inhibitors and reactivators of AChE and BChE inhibited by OP nerve agents–sarin and cyclosarin. While the majority of oximes were potent inhibitors of both enzymes in the micromolar range, we identified several oximes as BChE or AChE selective inhibitors with the potential for drug development. Furthermore, the oximes were poor reactivators of AChE; four heterocyclic derivatives reactivated cyclosarin-inhibited BChE up to 70%, and cis,trans-5 [2-((Z)-2-(5-((E)-(hydroxyimino)methyl)thiophen-2-yl)vinyl)benzonitrile] had a reactivation efficacy comparable to the standard oxime HI-6. In silico analysis and molecular docking studies, including molecular dynamics simulation, connected kinetic data to the structural features of these oximes and confirmed their productive interactions with the active site of cyclosarin-inhibited BChE. Based on inhibition and reactivation and their ADMET properties regarding lipophilicity, CNS activity, and hepatotoxicity, these compounds could be considered for further development of CNS-active reactivators in OP poisoning as well as cholinesterase-targeted therapeutics in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Full article
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18 pages, 594 KiB  
Article
Multiple Messaging Strategies for Increasing HPV Vaccination Intentions among English- and Spanish-Speaking Parents in the United States and Mexico
by Matthew S. McGlone, Keri K. Stephens, Mian Jia, Carolyn Montagnolo and Yifan Xu
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 650; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060650 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
The reported study compared the impact of four influence strategies (agency assignment, enhanced active choice, deviance regulation marking, and temporal framing) on English- and Spanish-speaking parents’ reported intention to vaccinate their children for HPV. An online experiment was conducted to examine the impact [...] Read more.
The reported study compared the impact of four influence strategies (agency assignment, enhanced active choice, deviance regulation marking, and temporal framing) on English- and Spanish-speaking parents’ reported intention to vaccinate their children for HPV. An online experiment was conducted to examine the impact of the strategies. In a fractional factorial design, participating parents (N = 1663) were exposed to combinations of influence strategies in text messages presented as reminders they might receive from a healthcare provider about their child’s eligibility for the vaccine series. The results indicated small but significant impacts of agency assignment, enhanced active choice, and deviance regulation marking on parents’ reported vaccination intentions. The study adds to the research literature on HPV vaccination communication in two important respects. First, it demonstrated how incorporating evidence-based influence strategies into reminder messages can increase parents’ vaccination intentions, an important precursor and predictor of actual vaccine uptake. Second, it sets an important precedent by examining the effects of influence strategies on vaccination intentions across different languages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine Strategies for HPV-Related Cancers)
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21 pages, 1823 KiB  
Article
Recognition of Intergranular Corrosion in AISI 304 Stainless Steel by Integrating a Multilayer Perceptron Artificial Neural Network and Metallographic Image Processing
by Edgar Augusto Ruelas-Santoyo, Armando Javier Ríos-Lira, Yaquelin Verenice Pantoja-Pacheco, José Alfredo Jiménez-García, Salvador Hernández-González and Oscar Cruz-Domínguez
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5077; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125077 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
The correct management of operations in thermoelectric plants is based on the continuous evaluation of the structural integrity of its components, among which there are elements made of stainless steel that perform water conduction functions at elevated temperatures. The working conditions generate progressive [...] Read more.
The correct management of operations in thermoelectric plants is based on the continuous evaluation of the structural integrity of its components, among which there are elements made of stainless steel that perform water conduction functions at elevated temperatures. The working conditions generate progressive wear that must be monitored from the perspective of the microstructure of the material. When AISI 304 stainless steel is subjected to a temperature range between 450 and 850 °C, it is susceptible to intergranular corrosion. This phenomenon, known as sensitization, causes the material to lose strength and generates different patterns in its microstructure. This research analyzes three different patterns present in the microstructure of stainless steel, which manifest themselves through the following characteristics: the absence of intergranular corrosion, the presence of intergranular corrosion, and the precipitation of chromium carbides. This article shows the development of a methodology capable of recognizing the corrosion patterns generated in stainless steel with an accuracy of 98%, through the integration of a multilayer perceptron neural network and the following digital image processing methods: phase congruence and a gray-level co-occurrence matrix. In this way, an automatic procedure for the analysis of the intergranular corrosion present in AISI 304 stainless steel using artificial intelligence is proposed. Full article
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20 pages, 5366 KiB  
Article
A Study on Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Spatial Dependence of Sound Source Perception in Fuzhou Historical and Cultural Districts
by Lin Wu, Qiqi Zhang, Yulan Yan, Ting Lan, Yanfang Hu, Yijing Zhang, Tianyou He and Jing Ye
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1753; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061753 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
As a carrier of cultural characteristics of historic districts, the soundscape has unique advantages in shaping regional cultural personality, and mastering its spatiotemporal characteristics is crucial for preserving soundscape heritage with natural and humanistic environments as its kernel. Focusing on the Three Square [...] Read more.
As a carrier of cultural characteristics of historic districts, the soundscape has unique advantages in shaping regional cultural personality, and mastering its spatiotemporal characteristics is crucial for preserving soundscape heritage with natural and humanistic environments as its kernel. Focusing on the Three Square and Seven Alleys historic and cultural district in Fuzhou, this paper analyzes the spatial and temporal patterns of the physical acoustic indicators of the soundscape, the spatial dependence of the sound source harmony, and the spatial relationship between the two. It was found that the physical acoustic indicators showed dynamic changes in spatial and temporal scales and reflect specific human activity and behavioral patterns; sound source harmony showed spatial autocorrelation in both global and local models, with prominent spatial characteristics; and the physical acoustic indicators may negatively affect soundscape perception. The study emphasizes the importance of the regional cultural connotation of soundscape in urban planning. It provides a scientific basis for the planning, designing, and managing of soundscape resources in historic and cultural districts and world heritage sites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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18 pages, 922 KiB  
Article
Crisis and Organizational Sustainability: Empirical Analysis of the Implication of Transformational Leadership on the Decision to Stay Mediated by the Commitment of the Democratic Party in Indonesia
by Herzaky Mahendra Putra, Fendy Suhariadi, Suparto Wijoyo, Sukron Ma’mun, Ian Firstian Aldhi and Dwi Hardaningtyas
Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(6), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13060309 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
The research focuses on the impact of transformational leadership on the decision to stay mediated by commitment after a court refusal regarding illegal extraordinary congress involving the outsiders of a political party in Indonesia (in this case, it is the Democratic Party currently [...] Read more.
The research focuses on the impact of transformational leadership on the decision to stay mediated by commitment after a court refusal regarding illegal extraordinary congress involving the outsiders of a political party in Indonesia (in this case, it is the Democratic Party currently led by Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono), where this phenomenon is classified as a crisis. Theories and the previous literature pointed out that transformational leadership would significantly affect an individual’s decision to stay with the institution through commitment. Therefore, this research empirically analyzes the hypotheses using quantitative methods on 349 respondents who are central (DPP) and local (DPD and DPC) active committees of the Democratic Party. Respondents are collected using cluster random sampling. Referring to theories and the previous literature, the latent variables of this research are constructed using dimensions. Transformational leadership (TL) has four dimensions which are charisma (idealized influence), inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individual considerations. Commitment has three dimensions which are affective, normative, and sustainable commitments. The decision to stay has two dimensions, which are intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. By using Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Square (SEM–PLS), the research revealed that the direct effect shows that transformational leadership and commitment significantly influence the decision to stay. On the other hand, the indirect effect indicates that commitment significantly mediates the relationship between transformational leadership and the decision to stay. The result indicates strong transformational leadership performed by Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono as the chief of the Democratic Party in Indonesia. Full article
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21 pages, 7076 KiB  
Article
Effects of Pulsed Electric Field and High-Pressure Processing Treatments on the Juice Yield and Quality of Sea Buckthorn
by Zhiwei Zhang, Yixuan Chen, Yuying Cheng, Zhenhong Gao, Kunsheng Qu, Zhixi Chen, Lihua Yue and Wenqiang Guan
Foods 2024, 13(12), 1829; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13121829 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Sea buckthorn juice has high nutritional value and a rich flavor that consumers enjoy. Traditional sea buckthorn thermal processing (TP) technology has problems such as low juice yield, poor quality, and poor flavor. Sea buckthorn berries are processed using a technique combining pulsed [...] Read more.
Sea buckthorn juice has high nutritional value and a rich flavor that consumers enjoy. Traditional sea buckthorn thermal processing (TP) technology has problems such as low juice yield, poor quality, and poor flavor. Sea buckthorn berries are processed using a technique combining pulsed electric field (PEF) and high-pressure processing (HPP) to increase juice yield and study its impact on the quality and volatile aroma of sea buckthorn juice. Results have show that, compared with TP, under the condition of PEF-HPP, the juice yield of sea buckthorn significantly increased by 11.37% (p > 0.05); TP and PEF-HPP treatments could effectively kill microorganisms in sea buckthorn juice, but the quality of sea buckthorn juice decreased significantly after TP treatment (p > 0.05), whereas PEF-HPP coupling technology could maximally retain the nutrients of sea buckthorn juice while inhibiting enzymatic browning to improve color, viscosity, and particle size. The flavor of sea buckthorn juice is analyzed using electronic nose (E-nose) and gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometer (GC–IMS) techniques, and it has been shown that PEF-HPP retains more characteristic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of sea buckthorn while avoiding the acrid and pungent flavors produced by TP, such as benzaldehyde, (E)-2-heptenal, and pentanoic acid, among others, which improves the sensory quality of sea buckthorn juice. PEF-HPP technology is environmentally friendly and efficient, with significant economic benefits. Research data provide information and a theoretical basis for the sea buckthorn juice processing industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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