The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
19 pages, 29205 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Addition of Expired Pharmaceuticals on Thermal Behaviour of Selected Types of Biomass
by Andrzej Strojwas, Valentina Zubkova, Dariusz Banas and Ilona Stabrawa
Energies 2024, 17(12), 2809; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17122809 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The influence of 2 wt.% additives of expired paracetamol and naproxen on the thermal behaviour of densified samples of pea husks (PH), corncobs (CC), and sunflower inflorescences (SI) was studied using an analytical TG/FTIR unit. Gaseous, liquid, and solid pyrolysis products were evaluated [...] Read more.
The influence of 2 wt.% additives of expired paracetamol and naproxen on the thermal behaviour of densified samples of pea husks (PH), corncobs (CC), and sunflower inflorescences (SI) was studied using an analytical TG/FTIR unit. Gaseous, liquid, and solid pyrolysis products were evaluated using XRD, SEM, and EDX techniques along with FT-IR, ATR, and UV spectroscopies. It was found that the additives changed the yield and composition of pyrolysis products differently. The addition of paracetamol increases the contribution of guaiacyl rings in the condensed material of all samples, and the addition of naproxen—that of chromophores originating from the decomposition of lignin. The additives diversely affected the contribution of hydrocarbons in the composition of volatile products of pyrolysis: they decreased this contribution in PH samples, increased it in SI samples, and did not change in CC samples. The additives used changed the morphology and composition of organic and inorganic parts of pyrolyzed biomass. These changes in inorganics caused the changes in the composition of pyrolysis products. The conducted research proves not only the possibility of the utilization of expired pharmaceuticals during their pyrolysis with densified PH and CC samples but also the ability to reduce the undesirable hydrocarbons in the obtained volatile products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bioenergy and Waste-to-Energy Technologies)
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31 pages, 1731 KiB  
Article
Technical, Economic, and Environmental Sustainability Assessment of Reclaimed Asphalt and Waste Polyethylene Terephthalate Pavements
by Zeerak Waryam Sajid, Arshad Hussian, Muhammad Umer Amin Khan, Fahad K. Alqahtani and Fahim Ullah
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 4911; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16124911 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the era of the global drive for sustainability in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), sustainability measures are encouraged to be taken at all levels. This study explores a novel mix design integrating Reclaimed Asphalt (RAP) with waste [...] Read more.
In the era of the global drive for sustainability in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), sustainability measures are encouraged to be taken at all levels. This study explores a novel mix design integrating Reclaimed Asphalt (RAP) with waste Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) to enhance pavement performance and sustainability. It adopts a holistic approach by investigating the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of the proposed mix to assess its sustainability. Industry experts emphasize the necessity of mitigating the resource intensiveness of pavement construction to foster sustainable infrastructure. RAP enables resource-efficient pavement construction by promoting asphalt recycling. However, increasing RAP quantity in the mix compromises asphalt structural stability, making it more susceptible to moisture damage and rutting. In this study, PET-modified Bitumen (PMB) is incorporated in higher RAP quantities in the asphaltic mix without compromising asphalt’s structural performance and durability. Various PMB amounts (2% to 10% by mass of mixture) were tested with 40% RAP (by mass of mixture), evaluating performance in terms of moisture damage, Marshall stability, rutting, etc. Optimal results were achieved with 6% PET and 40% RAP, showing a 7%, 57%, and 23% improvement in moisture resistance, rutting resistance, and Marshall stability, respectively, compared to unmodified asphalt (technical aspects). The novel asphalt mix demonstrated a 17% reduction in material cost (economic aspect) and a 53% decrease in CO2 emissions (environmental aspect) using Building Information Modeling (BIM). This study devises a prospective solution for the construction of resilient, resource-efficient, cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and sustainable pavements in line with UN SDGs and circular economy goals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Asphalt Materials and Pavement Engineering)
14 pages, 2563 KiB  
Article
BBS Gene Expression and Its Diversity in the Genus Dendrobium
by Tomoko Takamiya, Manako Saito, Aoi Miyamoto, Mio Oikawa, Liyue Zhang, Kazuki Yanagihashi, Erika Okawa, Yuuka Takahashi, Yui Suzuki, Misaki Watanabe, Tadahiro Yahagi, Keiichi Matsuzaki, Hiroshi Iijima, Tomohisha Yukawa and Yuki Ogura-Tsujita
Diversity 2024, 16(6), 337; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16060337 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Dendrobium officinale Kimura & Migo in the genus Dendrobium of Orchidaceae is an important medicinal plant that produces various bibenzyl and phenanthrene derivatives. In some orchids, these derivatives have been reported to increase with fungal infection. Bibenzyl biosynthesis is regulated by bibenzyl [...] Read more.
Dendrobium officinale Kimura & Migo in the genus Dendrobium of Orchidaceae is an important medicinal plant that produces various bibenzyl and phenanthrene derivatives. In some orchids, these derivatives have been reported to increase with fungal infection. Bibenzyl biosynthesis is regulated by bibenzyl synthase (BBS). Although six genes of the BBS family have been registered from D. officinale, their gene regulation mechanisms are unclear. The infection of Dendrobium with mycorrhizal fungi also reportedly increases the expression of genes involved in biosynthesis; however, the effect of mycorrhizal fungi on bibenzyl production is unknown. The present study examined the effects of three mycorrhizal fungi isolated from D. officinale on BBS gene expression and bibenzyl production over time. One of the Tulasnellaceae operational taxonomic units induced BBS gene expression and increased two representative bibenzyls, gigantol and dendrophenol, at specific time points. Furthermore, 19 BBS sequences were cloned from 12 Dendrobium species, and a phylogenetic analysis was performed. The results indicated that repeated BBS gene duplication occurred during the evolution of the genus, and further duplication occurred after speciation. These results suggest that it is possible to optimize metabolite production by selecting suitable symbiotic fungi. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Distribution and Diversity of Orchids—2nd Edition)
18 pages, 661 KiB  
Article
Research Frontiers in the Field of Agricultural Resources and the Environment
by Limin Chuan, Jingjuan Zhao, Shijie Qi, Qian Jia, Hui Zhang and Sa Ye
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 4996; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14124996 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
From the perspective of project and paper datasets, research frontier recognition in the field of agricultural resources and the environment using the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic extraction model was studied. By combining the wisdom of domain experts to judge the similarities and [...] Read more.
From the perspective of project and paper datasets, research frontier recognition in the field of agricultural resources and the environment using the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic extraction model was studied. By combining the wisdom of domain experts to judge the similarities and differences of clustering topics between the two data sources, multidimensional indicators, such as the emerging degree, attention degree, innovation degree, and intersection degree, were comprehensively constructed for frontier identification. The methods for hot research frontiers, emerging research frontiers, extinction research frontiers, and potential research frontiers were proposed. The empirical research in the field of agricultural resources and the environment showed that the “interaction mechanism of plant–rhizosphere–microbial diversity” was a hot research frontier in the years 2016–2021. The themes of “wastewater treatment technology and efficient utilization of water resources”, the “value-added utilization of agricultural wastes and sustainable development”, the “soil ecological response mechanism under agronomic management measures”, and the “mechanism of soil landslide, erosion, degradation and prediction evaluation” were judged as potential research frontiers. The theme of “ecosystems management and pollution control of agricultural and animal husbandry” was recognized as an emerging research frontier. The results confirm that the fusion method of extracting topics from project and paper data, combined with expert intelligence and frontier indicators for fine classification of frontiers, is an optional approach. This study provides strong support for accurately identifying the forefront of scientific research, grasping the latest research progress, efficiently allocating scientific and technological resources, and promoting technological innovation. Full article
17 pages, 5484 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Lifetime-Based Pressure-Sensitive Paint Measurements in a Wind Tunnel Using Model Pitch–Traverse and Pitch–Pause Modes
by Christian Klein, Daisuke Yorita and Ulrich Henne
Photonics 2024, 11(6), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics11060546 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
In order to improve the data productivity of a wind tunnel test, the model under investigation in the wind tunnel is moved continuously with a predetermined constant angular speed in the so-called pitch–traverse mode. Alternatively, the wind tunnel model can be moved in [...] Read more.
In order to improve the data productivity of a wind tunnel test, the model under investigation in the wind tunnel is moved continuously with a predetermined constant angular speed in the so-called pitch–traverse mode. Alternatively, the wind tunnel model can be moved in the so-called pitch–pause mode, in which it keeps its position for a certain (measurement) time at a fixed pitch position, after which it is moved to the next pitch position. The latter procedure is more time-consuming, so, for the same time interval, the number of measured data points taken in the pitch–pause mode is less than that for the pitch–traverse mode. Since wind tunnel test time can be quite expensive, in most wind tunnel tests where only conventional forces and pressures are recorded with conventional measuring systems, the wind tunnel model is moved in the pitch–traverse mode in order to obtain as much aerodynamic data as possible during the tunnel runtime. The application of the Pressure-Sensitive Paint (PSP) technique has been widely used in wind tunnel testing for the purpose of providing pressure data on wind tunnel models with high spatial resolution. The lifetime-based PSP method has several advantages over the intensity-based method since it often has higher accuracy. Up until now, the lifetime-based PSP technique has mainly been used for wind tunnel testing, where the test model has been moved to the pitch–pause mode. The traditional lifetime method using on-chip accumulation requires multiple (~1000) excitation light pulses to accumulate enough luminescence (fluorescence or phosphorescence) photons on the camera sensor to provide acceptable signal-to-noise ratios and, therefore, it may seem to be not compatible with a continuously moving wind tunnel model. Nevertheless, the present study verifies the application of lifetime-based PSP utilizing on-chip accumulation with a continuously moving wind tunnel model which would make the entire PSP data acquisition compatible with that of the conventional measurements (forces and pressures), as mentioned above. In this paper, the applicability of the lifetime-based PSP technique to a continuously moving wind tunnel model (in pitch–traverse mode) is investigated with the help of measurements in the transonic wind tunnel in Göttingen (TWG). For this investigation, PSP was applied on the delta-wing model DLR-F22, which is to be tested in TWG. The pressure distribution on the wind tunnel model was measured using the PSP lifetime method for both model movement modes (pitch–pause and pitch–traverse mode) so that the corresponding PSP results could be directly compared with each other. In addition, an error analysis of the PSP results was carried out and compared with the conventional pressure measurement results, hence providing an assessment of the accuracy of the PSP results; finally, a recommendation for future PSP measurements could be given. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: Photonics Sensors)
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18 pages, 15192 KiB  
Article
Prevalence, Genotype Diversity, and Distinct Pathogenicity of 205 Gammacoronavirus Infectious Bronchitis Virus Isolates in China during 2019–2023
by Ting Xiong, Hangao Xie, Lin Li, Shijin Liang, Meizhen Huang, Chuanzhao Yu, Tingting Zhuang, Xuejing Liang, Dingxiang Liu and Ruiai Chen
Viruses 2024, 16(6), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16060930 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Gammacoronavirus infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) causes a highly contagious disease in chickens and seriously endangers the poultry industry. The emergence and co-circulation of diverse IBV serotypes and genotypes with distinct pathogenicity worldwide pose a serious challenge to the development of effective intervention measures. [...] Read more.
Gammacoronavirus infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) causes a highly contagious disease in chickens and seriously endangers the poultry industry. The emergence and co-circulation of diverse IBV serotypes and genotypes with distinct pathogenicity worldwide pose a serious challenge to the development of effective intervention measures. In this study, we report the epidemic trends of IBV in China from 2019 to 2023 and a comparative analysis on the antigenic characteristics and pathogenicity of isolates among major prevalent lineages. Phylogenetic and recombination analyses based on the nucleotide sequences of the spike (S) 1 gene clustered a total of 205 isolates into twelve distinct lineages, with GI-19 as a predominant lineage (61.77 ± 4.56%) exhibiting an overall increasing trend over the past five years, and demonstrated that a majority of the variants were derived from gene recombination events. Further characterization of the growth and pathogenic properties of six representative isolates from different lineages classified four out of the six isolates as nephropathogenic types with mortality rates in one-day-old SPF chickens varying from 20–60%, one as a respiratory type with weak virulence, and one as a naturally occurring avirulent strain. Taken together, our findings illuminate the epidemic trends, prevalence, recombination, and pathogenicity of current IBV strains in China, providing key information for further strengthening the surveillance and pathogenicity studies of IBV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolution and Adaptation of Avian Viruses)
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26 pages, 2760 KiB  
Article
Floor Heave Control in Gob-Side Entry Retaining by Pillarless Coal Mining with Anti-Shear Pile Technology
by Ivan Sakhno, Svitlana Sakhno, Krzysztof Skrzypkowski, Oleksandr Isaienkov, Krzysztof Zagórski and Anna Zagórska
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 4992; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14124992 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The severe floor heave in gob-side entry retaining is the major restriction factor of the wide application of pillarless mining thin coal seams. Reinforcement and stress-relief floor heave control methods are the most promising. However, in practice, floor restoration is widely used. Therefore, [...] Read more.
The severe floor heave in gob-side entry retaining is the major restriction factor of the wide application of pillarless mining thin coal seams. Reinforcement and stress-relief floor heave control methods are the most promising. However, in practice, floor restoration is widely used. Therefore, floor heave control technology in gob-side entry retaining needs to be improved. This study proposes anti-shear pile technology to control floor heave in gob-side entry retaining. The research was mainly carried out by numerical simulation. It was found that the transformation of high vertical stresses in the entry floor underneath the filling wall and coal seam body into horizontal stresses starts the floor heave process. The vertical dilatancy of rocks under the roadway span and their subsequent unloading lead to the delamination of the floor strata and uplift of the entry contour. In this paper, the best pile installation scheme was found. It is a 2pile 5+2 scheme with the installation of two piles, each 2 m long. After that, it was shown that filling piles are more than 3.3 times cheaper than comparable analogs, and pile installation is less labor-intensive. The implementation of the proposed floor heave control method leads to a reduction in heaving by 2.47 times. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Mining Innovation)
22 pages, 841 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Robust Optimization Method Based on Two-Stage Evaluation and Its Application in Optimal Scheduling of Integrated Energy System
by Bo Zhou and Erchao Li
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 4997; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14124997 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
As an emerging energy allocation method, shared energy storage devices play an important role in modern power systems. At the same time, with the continuous improvement in renewable energy penetration, modern power systems are facing more uncertainties from the source side. Therefore, a [...] Read more.
As an emerging energy allocation method, shared energy storage devices play an important role in modern power systems. At the same time, with the continuous improvement in renewable energy penetration, modern power systems are facing more uncertainties from the source side. Therefore, a robust optimization algorithm that considers both shared energy storage devices and source-side uncertainty is needed. Responding to the above issues, this paper first establishes an optimal model of a regional integrated energy system with shared energy storage. Secondly, the uncertainty problem is transformed into a dynamic optimization problem with time-varying parameters, and a modified robust optimization over time algorithm combined with scenario analysis is proposed to solve such optimization problems. Finally, an optimal scheduling objective function with the lowest operating cost of the system as the optimization objective is established. In the experimental part, this paper first establishes a dynamic benchmark test function to verify the validity of proposed method. Secondly, the multi-mode actual verification of the proposed algorithm is carried out through a regional integrated energy system. The simulation results show that the modified robust optimization over time (ROOT) algorithm could find solutions with better robustness in the same dynamic environment based on the two-stage evaluation strategy. Compared with the existing algorithms, the average fitness and survival time of the robust solution obtained by the modified ROOT algorithm are increased by 94.41% and 179.78%. At the same time, the operating cost of the system is reduced by 11.65% by using the combined optimization scheduling method proposed in this paper. Full article
9 pages, 569 KiB  
Article
Longitudinal Observation of Micromotion upon Loading of Implant–Abutment Connection
by Kohei Yamashita, Yu Kataoka, Motohiro Munakata, Kikue Yamaguchi, Myu Hayashi and Daisuke Baba
Bioengineering 2024, 11(6), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11060582 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
While technological advances have made implants a good treatment option with a good long-term prognosis, peri-implantitis, which results in alveolar bone resorption around implants, has been observed in some cases. Micromotion at the implant abutment connection can cause peri-implantitis. However, the temporal [...] Read more.
While technological advances have made implants a good treatment option with a good long-term prognosis, peri-implantitis, which results in alveolar bone resorption around implants, has been observed in some cases. Micromotion at the implant abutment connection can cause peri-implantitis. However, the temporal progression of micromotion upon loading remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to longitudinally measure micromotion upon loading application on an implant. Implants with Morse-tapered connections were prepared. Custom titanium abutments were fabricated and tightened onto implant bodies at 35 N. A 100 N vertical load was applied for 200,000 cycles. Micromotion was measured when the load was applied, as was the total implant length and removal torque before and after loading. The micromotion was measured from the position data of the jig of the testing machine during loading. The average removal torque was 30.67 N after 10 min of tightening and 27.95 N after loading, indicating a decrease due to loading. The implant length reduced by 3.6 μm under the load. The average micromotion was 0.018 mm at 2 cycles, 0.016 mm at 100,000 cycles, and 0.0157 mm at 200,000 cycles, indicating implant length reduction under the load but not reaching 0. The micromotion between the implant and abutment under a cyclic load decreased over time but did not completely cease. These results highlight the relationship between micromotion and loading, underscoring the importance of careful monitoring and management to mitigate potential complications, such as peri-implantitis, and ensure optimal performance and durability of the implant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Engineering and Biomaterials)
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17 pages, 2690 KiB  
Article
Pressure-Driven Responses in Cd2SiO4 and Hg2GeO4 Minerals: A Comparative Study
by Jaspreet Singh, Daniel Errandonea, Venkatakrishnan Kanchana and Ganapathy Vaitheeswaran
Crystals 2024, 14(6), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14060538 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The structural, elastic, and electronic properties of orthorhombic Cd2SiO4 and Hg2GeO4 were examined under varying pressure conditions using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory employing the Projector Augmented Wave method. The obtained cell parameters at 0 [...] Read more.
The structural, elastic, and electronic properties of orthorhombic Cd2SiO4 and Hg2GeO4 were examined under varying pressure conditions using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory employing the Projector Augmented Wave method. The obtained cell parameters at 0 GPa were found to align well with existing experimental data. We delved into the pressure dependence of normalized lattice parameters and elastic constants. In Cd2SiO4, all lattice constants decreased as pressure increased, whereas, in Hg2GeO4, parameters a and b decreased while parameter c increased under pressure. Employing the Hill average method, we calculated the elastic moduli and Poisson’s ratio up to 10 GPa, noting an increase with pressure. Evaluation of ductility/brittleness under pressure indicated both compounds remained ductile throughout. We also estimated elastic anisotropy and Debye temperature under varying pressures. Cd2SiO4 and Hg2GeO4 were identified as indirect band gap insulators, with estimated band gaps of 3.34 eV and 2.09 eV, respectively. Interestingly, Cd2SiO4 exhibited a significant increase in band gap with increasing pressure, whereas the band gap of Hg2GeO4 decreased under pressure, revealing distinct structural and electronic responses despite their similar structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crystalline Metals and Alloys)
32 pages, 5529 KiB  
Review
The Role of Natural Products from Herbal Medicine in TLR4 Signaling for Colorectal Cancer Treatment
by Yan Luo, Guochen Zhang, Chao Hu, Lijun Huang, Dong Wang, Zhejie Chen and Yumei Wang
Molecules 2024, 29(12), 2727; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29122727 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway constitutes an intricate network of protein interactions primarily involved in inflammation and cancer. This pathway triggers intracellular signaling cascades, modulating transcription factors that regulate gene expression related to immunity and malignancy. Previous studies showed that colon [...] Read more.
The toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway constitutes an intricate network of protein interactions primarily involved in inflammation and cancer. This pathway triggers intracellular signaling cascades, modulating transcription factors that regulate gene expression related to immunity and malignancy. Previous studies showed that colon cancer patients with low TLR4 expression exhibit extended survival times and the TLR4 signaling pathway holds a significant role in CRC pathogenesis. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have garnered substantial attention as an alternative therapeutic modality for CRC, primarily due to their multifaceted composition and ability to target multiple pathways. Emerging evidence indicates that specific TCM products, such as andrographolide, rosmarinic acid, baicalin, etc., have the potential to impede CRC development through the TLR4 signaling pathway. Here, we review the role and biochemical processes of the TLR4 signaling pathway in CRC, and natural products from TCMs affecting the TLR4 pathway. This review sheds light on potential treatment strategies utilizing natural TLR4 inhibitors for CRC, which contributes to the advancement of research and accelerates their clinical integration into CRC treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anti-cancer Agents from Natural Products)
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16 pages, 11542 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Greywater Recovery Systems in European Single-Family Buildings: Economic and Environmental Impacts
by Krzysztof Rajski, Sebastian Englart and Ali Sohani
Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 4912; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16124912 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study explores the integration of greywater recovery systems (GRSs) within single-family buildings across European countries. The analysis evaluates the impacts of these systems from multiple perspectives: potable water conservation, economic feasibility, energy consumption, and environmental impact. Employing life cycle cost (LCC) and [...] Read more.
This study explores the integration of greywater recovery systems (GRSs) within single-family buildings across European countries. The analysis evaluates the impacts of these systems from multiple perspectives: potable water conservation, economic feasibility, energy consumption, and environmental impact. Employing life cycle cost (LCC) and net present value (NPV) analyses, the research assesses the economic viability of these systems compared to standard water installations. Positive NPV is observed in countries such as Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Finland, and Norway, according to the base scenario. Additionally, the implementation of subsidies can enhance economic incentives for adopting GRSs by reducing the payback period (PBP). Significant findings include reductions in potable water demand by up to 43.0%, and energy savings of up to 42.6% are also observed with the use of GRSs. Additionally, notably lower carbon dioxide emissions (CDEs) were reported, with reductions being directly proportional to the decreases in energy use. This holistic approach aims to establish frameworks for decision-making processes, emphasizing that economic and environmental aspects are mutually complementary and significant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)
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14 pages, 812 KiB  
Article
Mapping of Repetitive Sequences in Brachyhypopomus brevirostris (Hypopomidae, Gymnotiformes) from the Brazilian Amazon
by Paula Pinto Rodrigues, Milla de Andrade Machado, Ananda Marques Pety, Willam Oliveira da Silva, Julio Cesar Pieczarka and Cleusa Yoshiko Nagamachi
Animals 2024, 14(12), 1726; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14121726 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Brachyhypopomus (Hypopomidae, Gymnotiformes) is a monophyletic genus consisting of 28 formally described species. Karyotypic data are available for 12 species. The same karyotype is described for two species (B. brevirostris and B. hamiltoni), as well as different karyotypes for the same [...] Read more.
Brachyhypopomus (Hypopomidae, Gymnotiformes) is a monophyletic genus consisting of 28 formally described species. Karyotypic data are available for 12 species. The same karyotype is described for two species (B. brevirostris and B. hamiltoni), as well as different karyotypes for the same species from distinct locations (B. brevirostris). In this context, B. brevirostris may constitute a cryptic species complex. Thus, in the present study, we analyzed the karyotype of B. brevirostris, from Santarém, Pará, and Tefé, Amazonas, using classical cytogenetics (conventional staining and C-banding) and molecular techniques (fluorescence in situ hybridization using 18S rDNA, 5S rDNA, U2 snRNA, and telomeric probes). The results show that samples from both locations present 2n = 38, with all chromosomes being acrocentric (FC = 38a). In both populations, 18S rDNA sequences are present on only one pair of homologous chromosomes and telomeric sequences occur only at the ends of the chromosomes. In the Tefé sample, the 5S rDNA occurs in two pairs, and the U2 snRNA in three pairs. These results are the first descriptions of these sequences for B. brevirostris samples from the Tefé locality, as well as the first karyotypic description for the Santarém locality. Future cytotaxonomic studies of this genus can benefit from these results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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15 pages, 21804 KiB  
Article
Polychrome Marbles in Christian Churches: Examples from the Antependium of Baroque Altars in Apulia (Southern Italy)
by Pasquale Acquafredda, Francesca Micheletti and Giovanna Fioretti
Heritage 2024, 7(6), 3120-3134; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7060147 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The antependia, realized in polychrome marbles during the Baroque period in two Christian churches of Apulia (Southern Italy), were on-site petrographically investigated by the naked eye to obtain information regarding the types of used rocks; the precision in the making of the [...] Read more.
The antependia, realized in polychrome marbles during the Baroque period in two Christian churches of Apulia (Southern Italy), were on-site petrographically investigated by the naked eye to obtain information regarding the types of used rocks; the precision in the making of the marble tesserae was also assessed. Most of the polychrome marbles recognized were taken from buildings and monuments realized during the Roman imperial period; other marbles quarried during the Baroque period, mainly from Italian geological outcrops, were also identified. The precision in the execution of the tesserae is generally very high and depends not only on the skill of the marble worker but also on the lithotype. Full article
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26 pages, 3094 KiB  
Article
Anomaly Detection and Artificial Intelligence Identified the Pathogenic Role of Apoptosis and RELB Proto-Oncogene, NF-kB Subunit in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
by Joaquim Carreras and Rifat Hamoudi
BioMedInformatics 2024, 4(2), 1480-1505; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedinformatics4020081 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is one of the most frequent lymphomas. DLBCL is phenotypically, genetically, and clinically heterogeneous. Aim: We aim to identify new prognostic markers. Methods: We performed anomaly detection analysis, other artificial intelligence techniques, and conventional statistics using gene [...] Read more.
Background: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is one of the most frequent lymphomas. DLBCL is phenotypically, genetically, and clinically heterogeneous. Aim: We aim to identify new prognostic markers. Methods: We performed anomaly detection analysis, other artificial intelligence techniques, and conventional statistics using gene expression data of 414 patients from the Lymphoma/Leukemia Molecular Profiling Project (GSE10846), and immunohistochemistry in 10 reactive tonsils and 30 DLBCL cases. Results: First, an unsupervised anomaly detection analysis pinpointed outliers (anomalies) in the series, and 12 genes were identified: DPM2, TRAPPC1, HYAL2, TRIM35, NUDT18, TMEM219, CHCHD10, IGFBP7, LAMTOR2, ZNF688, UBL7, and RELB, which belonged to the apoptosis, MAPK, MTOR, and NF-kB pathways. Second, these 12 genes were used to predict overall survival using machine learning, artificial neural networks, and conventional statistics. In a multivariate Cox regression analysis, high expressions of HYAL2 and UBL7 were correlated with poor overall survival, whereas TRAPPC1, IGFBP7, and RELB were correlated with good overall survival (p < 0.01). As a single marker and only in RCHOP-like treated cases, the prognostic value of RELB was confirmed using GSEA analysis and Kaplan–Meier with log-rank test and validated in the TCGA and GSE57611 datasets. Anomaly detection analysis was successfully tested in the GSE31312 and GSE117556 datasets. Using immunohistochemistry, RELB was positive in B-lymphocytes and macrophage/dendritic-like cells, and correlation with HLA DP-DR, SIRPA, CD85A (LILRB3), PD-L1, MARCO, and TOX was explored. Conclusions: Anomaly detection and other bioinformatic techniques successfully predicted the prognosis of DLBCL, and high RELB was associated with a favorable prognosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Applied Biomedical Data Science)
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15 pages, 595 KiB  
Review
Melanoma in Pregnancy—Diagnosis, Treatment, and Consequences for Fetal Development and the Maintenance of Pregnancy
by Patrycja Pelczar, Pola Kosteczko, Ewelina Wieczorek, Maciej Kwieciński, Aleksandra Kozłowska and Paulina Gil-Kulik
Cancers 2024, 16(12), 2173; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16122173 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Cutaneous malignant melanoma is one of the most common neoplasms among pregnancy-associated cancers (PACs). Risk factors include excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, the presence of benign and dysplastic nevi, and a patient or family history of melanoma. Self-examination and careful inspection of nevi [...] Read more.
Cutaneous malignant melanoma is one of the most common neoplasms among pregnancy-associated cancers (PACs). Risk factors include excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, the presence of benign and dysplastic nevi, and a patient or family history of melanoma. Self-examination and careful inspection of nevi are crucial, especially in the context of their progression over time. Physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, such as the darkening and enlargement of the nevi, delay the diagnosis of CMM. In the fetus, metastases are very rare, and if they do occur, they concern the placenta or fetal tissues. The choice of treatment is influenced by the cancer stage, symptoms, the time of termination of pregnancy, and the patient’s decision. Essential procedures which are safe for the fetus are diagnostic biopsy, ultrasound, and the therapeutic excision of the lesion and the affected lymph nodes. Other imaging methods can be used with a safe radiation dose limit of 100 mGy. Immunotherapy and targeted treatments must be carefully considered, because of their possible adverse effects on the fetus. An interdisciplinary approach to the problem of melanoma during pregnancy is necessary, involving doctors of various specialties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Causes, Screening and Diagnosis)
12 pages, 17331 KiB  
Communication
Effect of Bridging Manner on the Transport Behaviors of Dimethyldihydropyrene/Cyclophanediene Molecular Devices
by Peng Cui, Zhouhao Dai, Ziye Wu and Mingsen Deng
Molecules 2024, 29(12), 2726; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29122726 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
A molecule–electrode interface with different coupling strengths is one of the greatest challenges in fabricating reliable molecular switches. In this paper, the effects of bridging manner on the transport behaviors of a dimethyldihydropyrene/cyclophanediene (DHP/CPD) molecule connected to two graphene nanoribbon (GNR) electrodes have [...] Read more.
A molecule–electrode interface with different coupling strengths is one of the greatest challenges in fabricating reliable molecular switches. In this paper, the effects of bridging manner on the transport behaviors of a dimethyldihydropyrene/cyclophanediene (DHP/CPD) molecule connected to two graphene nanoribbon (GNR) electrodes have been investigated by using the non-equilibrium Green’s function combined with density functional theory. The results show that both current values and ON/OFF ratios can be modulated to more than three orders of magnitude by changing bridging manner. Bias-dependent transmission spectra and molecule-projected self-consistent Hamiltonians are used to illustrate the conductance and switching feature. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the bridging manner modulates the electron transport by changing the energy level alignment between the molecule and the GNR electrodes. This work highlights the ability to achieve distinct conductance and switching performance in single-molecular junctions by varying bridging manners between DHP/CPD molecules and GNR electrodes, thus offering practical insights for designing molecular switches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Computational and Theoretical Chemistry)
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22 pages, 4650 KiB  
Article
Characterizing Cellular Physiological States with Three-Dimensional Shape Descriptors for Cell Membranes
by Guoye Guan, Yixuan Chen, Hongli Wang, Qi Ouyang and Chao Tang
Membranes 2024, 14(6), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes14060137 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The shape of a cell as defined by its membrane can be closely associated with its physiological state. For example, the irregular shapes of cancerous cells and elongated shapes of neuron cells often reflect specific functions, such as cell motility and cell communication. [...] Read more.
The shape of a cell as defined by its membrane can be closely associated with its physiological state. For example, the irregular shapes of cancerous cells and elongated shapes of neuron cells often reflect specific functions, such as cell motility and cell communication. However, it remains unclear whether and which cell shape descriptors can characterize different cellular physiological states. In this study, 12 geometric shape descriptors for a three-dimensional (3D) object were collected from the previous literature and tested with a public dataset of ~400,000 independent 3D cell regions segmented based on fluorescent labeling of the cell membranes in Caenorhabditis elegans embryos. It is revealed that those shape descriptors can faithfully characterize cellular physiological states, including (1) cell division (cytokinesis), along with an abrupt increase in the elongation ratio; (2) a negative correlation of cell migration speed with cell sphericity; (3) cell lineage specification with symmetrically patterned cell shape changes; and (4) cell fate specification with differential gene expression and differential cell shapes. The descriptors established may be used to identify and predict the diverse physiological states in numerous cells, which could be used for not only studying developmental morphogenesis but also diagnosing human disease (e.g., the rapid detection of abnormal cells). Full article
16 pages, 1155 KiB  
Article
Sonar Fish School Detection and Counting Method Based on Improved YOLOv8 and BoT-SORT
by Bowen Xing, Min Sun, Zhenchong Liu, Lianwu Guan, Jitao Han, Chuanxu Yan and Chuang Han
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(6), 964; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12060964 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Fish object detection and counting in pelagic fisheries face many challenges in complex environments. Sonar imaging technology offers a solution because it generates high-resolution images underwater. In this paper, we propose a sonar-based fish object detection and counting method using an improved YOLOv8 [...] Read more.
Fish object detection and counting in pelagic fisheries face many challenges in complex environments. Sonar imaging technology offers a solution because it generates high-resolution images underwater. In this paper, we propose a sonar-based fish object detection and counting method using an improved YOLOv8 combined with BoT-SORT to address issues such as missed detection, false detection, and low accuracy caused by complex factors such as equipment motion, light changes, and background noise in pelagic environments. The algorithm utilizes the techniques of lightweight upsampling operator CARAFE, generalized feature pyramid network GFPN, and partial convolution. It integrates with the BoT-SORT tracking algorithm to propose a new region detection method that detects and tracks the schools of fish, providing stable real-time fish counts in the designated area. The experimental results indicate that while focusing on maintaining a lightweight design, the improved algorithm achieved a 3.8% increase in recall and a 2.4% increase in compared to the original algorithm. This significantly impacts scientific and rational fishery planning, marine resource protection, and improved productivity. At the same time, it provides important data support for marine ecological monitoring, environmental protection, and fishery management, contributing to sustainable fishery development and marine ecology preservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
22 pages, 10599 KiB  
Article
Cooling Potential of Urban Tree Species during Extreme Heat and Drought: A Thermal Remote Sensing Assessment
by Harald Zandler and Cyrus Samimi
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(12), 2059; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16122059 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The cooling potential of tree species in Central European cities is insufficiently studied during extreme heat and drought, although a stronger surge in heatwaves compared to the global average is observed in this region. Remote sensing-based thermal surveys are an important tool to [...] Read more.
The cooling potential of tree species in Central European cities is insufficiently studied during extreme heat and drought, although a stronger surge in heatwaves compared to the global average is observed in this region. Remote sensing-based thermal surveys are an important tool to shed light on the mitigation effects of green infrastructure, but approaches covering extreme events are scarce. In this study, we present a simple, low-cost thermal airborne methodology that covers the current daily heat record in 2022, after the second warmest and third driest spring-to-summer period since 1949, in the medium-sized German city of Forchheim. We found that in spite of record-breaking heat and drought conditions, trees still had a considerable cooling potential with surface temperatures of 2 °C to 6 °C below air temperatures. Tree species were characterized by substantial median differences in tree surface temperatures up to 3.64 °C. Conifers and drought-sensitive broadleaf species showed the highest temperatures during the extreme event, while riparian species with potentially good water provision showed the highest cooling potential. In addition to tree species, imperviousness and tree NDVI were important variables for urban tree surface temperature, showing positive (imperviousness) and negative (NDVI) correlations with tree surface temperatures. Our study provides a methodological remote sensing example for the spontaneous and rapid coverage of extreme events, documenting the benefits of tree species in the urban context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing for Land Surface Temperature and Related Applications)
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19 pages, 2143 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Ecological Restoration Effectiveness of Poverty Alleviation Relocation through Carbon Storage Analysis: Insights from Karst Regions
by Qing Feng, Zhongfa Zhou, Quan Chen, Changli Zhu and Lu Zhang
Forests 2024, 15(6), 1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15061006 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The Poverty Alleviation Relocation (PAR) policy is widely regarded as an effective approach for breaking the cycle of ecological vulnerability and poverty. However, quantitative research on the ecological restoration effectiveness of PAR lacks sufficient experimental data support. This study focuses on the karst [...] Read more.
The Poverty Alleviation Relocation (PAR) policy is widely regarded as an effective approach for breaking the cycle of ecological vulnerability and poverty. However, quantitative research on the ecological restoration effectiveness of PAR lacks sufficient experimental data support. This study focuses on the karst region and employs analysis methods such as volume-derived biomass and correlation analysis to evaluate the impact of PAR on carbon storage in forest ecosystems using on-site experimental data. The objective is to enhance and broaden the research framework for assessing PAR’s ecological restoration effectiveness. The findings reveal that, compared to the pre-PAR implementation period in 2015, the study area experienced an 8.16% increase in forest land area and a 6.57% increase in carbon storage after six years of PAR implementation in 2021. Following PAR implementation, carbon storage in the stone desertification area surged by 14.31%, indicating a significant correlation between PAR households and carbon storage variables. In the karst area, carbon storage increased by 4.34%, exhibiting a significant correlation between the two variables. Conversely, in the non-karst area, carbon storage rose by 5.01%, but no significant correlation was observed between the variables. Furthermore, post-PAR implementation, there is a discernible trend of stronger carbon storage enhancement with increasing distance from the relocated PAR households. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Ecosystem Services and Landscape Design - Series II)
15 pages, 4787 KiB  
Article
Performance Analysis of Post-Quantum Cryptography Algorithms for Digital Signature
by Filip Opiłka, Marcin Niemiec, Maria Gagliardi and Michail Alexandros Kourtis
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 4994; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14124994 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the face of advancing quantum computing capabilities posing significant threats to current cryptographic protocols, the need for post-quantum cryptography has become increasingly urgent. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the performance of various post-quantum cryptographic algorithms specifically applied to digital signatures. [...] Read more.
In the face of advancing quantum computing capabilities posing significant threats to current cryptographic protocols, the need for post-quantum cryptography has become increasingly urgent. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the performance of various post-quantum cryptographic algorithms specifically applied to digital signatures. It focuses on the implementation and performance analysis of selected algorithms, including CRYSTALS-Dilithium, Falcon, and SPHINCS+, using the liboqs library. Performance tests reveal insights into key pair generation, file signing, and signature verification processes. Comparative tests with the well-known and popular RSA algorithm highlight the trade-offs between security and time efficiency. The results can help to select secure and efficient ciphers for specific 5G/6G services. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 5G/6G Mechanisms, Services, and Applications)
24 pages, 1796 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Impact Resistance Characteristics of a Power Propulsion Shaft System Containing a High-Elasticity Coupling
by Yukuo Guo, Ruiping Zhou, Zhaozhao Ma, Jianzheng Wang and Ziteng Yan
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 4995; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14124995 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
In research concerning the impact resistance characteristics of ship power transmission shaft systems incorporating a high-elasticity coupling, a significant challenge lies in ascertaining the displacement compensation metrics for the high-elasticity coupling. This study constructs a finite element model of the ship power transmission [...] Read more.
In research concerning the impact resistance characteristics of ship power transmission shaft systems incorporating a high-elasticity coupling, a significant challenge lies in ascertaining the displacement compensation metrics for the high-elasticity coupling. This study constructs a finite element model of the ship power transmission shaft system with an entity equivalent model of the high-elasticity coupling. Utilizing the Dynamic Design Analysis Method (DDAM) and the time-history method, the dynamic responses of the high-elasticity coupling, the propulsion shaft system, and its critical cross-sections under explosive impact loads are analyzed. The findings indicate that the maximum impact displacement of the propulsion shafting system, as calculated by DDAM, is 22.47 mm in the vertical direction at the driven end of the high-elasticity coupling. In contrast, the maximum impact displacement determined by the time-history method is 15.23 mm in the same direction. The study corroborates the precision of the high-elasticity coupling equivalent model establishment methodology and confirms that the entity equivalent model of the power transmission shaft system with a high-elasticity coupling is capable of fulfilling the criteria for a swift evaluation of impact resistance characteristics. This provides theoretical backing for the forecasting of impact resistance performance in ship propulsion shaft systems. Full article

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