The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
20 pages, 9082 KiB  
Article
Field Plate Integration for Mitigating Partial Discharge Activity in PCB-Embedded Power Electronic Modules
by Paul Bruyere, Eric Vagnon and Yvan Avenas
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2035; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092035 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper proposes a concept based on field plate (FP) integration inside printed circuit board (PCB)-embedded power modules. The goal is to reduce the electric field at their surface and thus increase the partial discharge inception voltage (PDIV). Electrostatic simulations are first carried [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a concept based on field plate (FP) integration inside printed circuit board (PCB)-embedded power modules. The goal is to reduce the electric field at their surface and thus increase the partial discharge inception voltage (PDIV). Electrostatic simulations are first carried out to analyze the electric field reduction induced by the use of FPs. Then, dedicated experiments are proposed to demonstrate that the actual PDIV increases in AC sinus 50 Hz when FPs are implemented. More specifically, it is observed that an optimal FP length exists. Several analyses based on simulations and experiments are thus proposed to explain this phenomenon. Finally, an assessment of PD activity and PD location is presented to support the analysis. AC sinus 50 Hz characterizations indicate that PDIV can be increased by 178% compared to PCBs without FPs with a proper definition of equipotential prolongation and PCB length. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy, Electrical and Power Engineering 2024)
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15 pages, 391 KiB  
Review
New Insights in Prebiotic Utilization: A Systematic Review
by Martina Arapović, Leona Puljić, Nikolina Kajić, Brankica Kartalović, Kristina Habschied and Krešimir Mastanjević
Processes 2024, 12(5), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050867 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The hectic pace of modern life often leads to quick solutions, both in lifestyle and the choice of food we consume. The importance of the gut microbiome and its balance is being increasingly researched, with the prebiotic concept itself becoming a topic of [...] Read more.
The hectic pace of modern life often leads to quick solutions, both in lifestyle and the choice of food we consume. The importance of the gut microbiome and its balance is being increasingly researched, with the prebiotic concept itself becoming a topic of scientific investigation. The aim of this paper is to analyze scientific studies on the understanding of prebiotics conducted between 2019 and 2024 in order to see what new knowledge, new sources, new ways of use, and newly established effects on certain disease states have been discovered during this period. The question that the authors are trying to answer is how specific prebiotics affect the growth and activity of selected probiotic strains in the human gut (have impact on gut microbiome) and what the implications of these interactions are. Four databases were searched: Pubmed/MEDLINE, Springerlink, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The keywords used were prebiotics, functional food, probiotics, gut microbiome, and trends. A systematic review of 30 scientific studies on the topic of prebiotics revealed significant advances in understanding and application. Research particularly indicates how prebiotics stimulate the growth of beneficial probiotic strains, such as Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and Bifidobacterium. In addition, innovative approaches in food production, including pasta rich in prebiotic fibers, chocolate with inulin and stevia, and the use of fruit by-products, show promising results in creating “healthier” food options. Although the papers had differing objectives and research methodologies, certain similarities were found. All papers emphasized the importance of using prebiotics, although it depended on the type they come from and their impact on the gut microbiome, i.e., the stimulation of probiotic action within the gut microbiome, which consequently has benefits on health. This review serves as a springboard for further research in this exciting field, with the ultimate goal of harnessing the power of prebiotics to improve health outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Process Engineering)
18 pages, 1723 KiB  
Article
Simulation Model for Assessing High-Temperature Stress on Rice
by Haoyang Zhou, Xianguan Chen, Minglu Li, Chunlin Shi and Min Jiang
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050900 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Rice is a staple grain crop extensively cultivated in Fujian Province, China. This study examined the impact of high-temperature stress on rice yield and its components, focusing on four representative rice varieties, including early and middle rice grown in Fujian Province. Results indicate [...] Read more.
Rice is a staple grain crop extensively cultivated in Fujian Province, China. This study examined the impact of high-temperature stress on rice yield and its components, focusing on four representative rice varieties, including early and middle rice grown in Fujian Province. Results indicate significant yield losses, with the most severe reduction of 60.8% observed during the flowering stage of early rice and over 40% during the meiosis and flowering stages of middle rice. High-temperature stress primarily affects early rice yield more at the flowering stage than at the grain-filling stage, whereas in middle rice, it is more severe at the meiosis stage than at the flowering stage. Leveraging historical climatic data spanning the past 20 years, a simulation model for high-temperature stress on rice yield was developed to assess disaster-induced yield loss rates, aiming to enhance prevention and disaster damage assessment for rice under high-temperature stress. Application of the model to four rice planting sites in Fujian Province revealed contrasting temporal changes between loss rates and meteorological yield, with middle rice experiencing more severe damage than early rice. The model’s effectiveness is validated by the strong correspondence between yield loss rate and meteorological yield across different regions, highlighting its robust simulation capabilities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Crop Simulation Modelling)
12 pages, 761 KiB  
Article
Outcomes and Adverse Events in Patients with Cancer after Diagnosis of Immunotherapy-Associated Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Eva Duvalyan, Sam Brondfield, Robert J. Rushakoff, Mark S. Anderson and Zoe Quandt
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1663; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091663 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (CPI)-induced diabetes mellitus (CPI-DM) is a rare immune-related adverse event (irAE). Patients and providers fear that continuing CPIs puts patients at risk for additional irAEs and thus may discontinue therapy. Currently, there are little data to inform this decision. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (CPI)-induced diabetes mellitus (CPI-DM) is a rare immune-related adverse event (irAE). Patients and providers fear that continuing CPIs puts patients at risk for additional irAEs and thus may discontinue therapy. Currently, there are little data to inform this decision. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate whether discontinuing CPIs after diagnosis of CPI-DM impacts the development of future irAEs and cancer outcomes such as progression and death. Patients who developed CPI-DM during cancer treatment at UCSF from 1 July 2015 to 5 July 2023 were analyzed for cancer outcomes and irAE development. Fisher’s exact tests, Student t-tests, Kaplan–Meier methods, and Cox regression were used as appropriate. Of the 43 patients with CPI-DM, 20 (47%) resumed CPIs within 90 days of the irAE, 4 (9%) patients restarted after 90 days, and 19 (44%) patients never restarted. Subsequent irAEs were diagnosed in 9 of 24 (38%) who resumed CPIs and 3 of 19 (16%) who discontinued CPIs (p = 0.17). There was no significant difference in death (p = 0.74) or cancer progression (p = 0.55) between these two groups. While our single-institution study did not show worse cancer outcomes after discontinuing CPIs, many variables can impact outcomes, which our study was not adequately powered to evaluate. A nuanced approach is needed to decide whether to continue CPI treatment after a severe irAE like CPI-DM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer-Therapy-Related Adverse Events in Organs)
28 pages, 778 KiB  
Review
The Role of Gut Microbiota in the Etiopathogenesis of Multiple Chronic Diseases
by Lara Pires, Ana M. González-Paramás, Sandrina A. Heleno and Ricardo C. Calhelha
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050392 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Chronic diseases (CD) may result from a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle and social behaviours, healthcare system influences, community factors, and environmental determinants of health. These risk factors frequently coexist and interact with one another. Ongoing research and a focus on personalized interventions [...] Read more.
Chronic diseases (CD) may result from a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle and social behaviours, healthcare system influences, community factors, and environmental determinants of health. These risk factors frequently coexist and interact with one another. Ongoing research and a focus on personalized interventions are pivotal strategies for preventing and managing chronic disease outcomes. A wealth of literature suggests the potential involvement of gut microbiota in influencing host metabolism, thereby impacting various risk factors associated with chronic diseases. Dysbiosis, the perturbation of the composition and activity of the gut microbiota, is crucial in the etiopathogenesis of multiple CD. Recent studies indicate that specific microorganism-derived metabolites, including trimethylamine N-oxide, lipopolysaccharide and uremic toxins, contribute to subclinical inflammatory processes implicated in CD. Various factors, including diet, lifestyle, and medications, can alter the taxonomic species or abundance of gut microbiota. Researchers are currently dedicating efforts to understanding how the natural progression of microbiome development in humans affects health outcomes. Simultaneously, there is a focus on enhancing the understanding of microbiome–host molecular interactions. These endeavours ultimately aim to devise practical approaches for rehabilitating dysregulated human microbial ecosystems, intending to restore health and prevent diseases. This review investigates how the gut microbiome contributes to CD and explains ways to modulate it for managing or preventing chronic conditions. Full article
15 pages, 1286 KiB  
Article
The Cryoprotective Effect of an Antifreeze Collagen Peptide Complex Obtained by Enzymatic Glycosylation on Tilapia
by Shouchun Liu, Luyao Zhang, Zhuyi Li, Jing Chen, Yinyu Zhang, Xuebo Yang, Qiuhan Chen, Hongying Cai, Pengzhi Hong, Chunhua Zhu and Saiyi Zhong
Foods 2024, 13(9), 1319; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13091319 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Antifreeze peptides have become effective antifreeze agents for frozen products, but their low quantity of active ingredients and high cost limit large-scale application. This study used the glycosylation of fish collagen peptides with glucosamine hydrochloride catalyzed by transglutaminase to obtain a transglutaminase-catalyzed glycosylation [...] Read more.
Antifreeze peptides have become effective antifreeze agents for frozen products, but their low quantity of active ingredients and high cost limit large-scale application. This study used the glycosylation of fish collagen peptides with glucosamine hydrochloride catalyzed by transglutaminase to obtain a transglutaminase-catalyzed glycosylation product (TGP) and investigate its antifreeze effect on tilapia. Compared with the blank group, the freshness (pH value of 6.31, TVB-N value of 21.7 mg/100 g, whiteness of 46.28), textural properties (especially hardness and elasticity), and rheological properties of the TGP groups were significantly improved. In addition, the protein structures of the samples were investigated using UV absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. The results showed that the tertiary structure of the TGP groups changed to form a dense polymer. Therefore, this approach can reduce the denaturation and decomposition of muscle fibers and proteins in fish meat more effectively and has a better protective effect on muscle structure and protein aggregation, improving the stability of fish meat. This study reveals an innovative method for generating antifreeze peptides by enzymatic glycosylation, and glycosylated fish collagen peptide products can be used as new and effective green antifreeze agents in frozen foods. Full article
25 pages, 925 KiB  
Article
Forest Wellness Tourism Development Strategies Using SWOT, QSPM, and AHP: A Case Study of Chongqing Tea Mountain and Bamboo Forest in China
by Li Wang, Myagmarsuren Damdinsuren, Yuanhao Qin, Ganzorig Gonchigsumlaa, Yadmaa Zandan and Zilin Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3609; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093609 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Forests drive tourism growth in China, offering ecologic and economic benefits over urbanization trends. Wellness tourism, aligned with UN goals, thrives in forest settings, though challenges remain, particularly in the underinvested forest regions of Western China. This study aims to identify and rank [...] Read more.
Forests drive tourism growth in China, offering ecologic and economic benefits over urbanization trends. Wellness tourism, aligned with UN goals, thrives in forest settings, though challenges remain, particularly in the underinvested forest regions of Western China. This study aims to identify and rank the forest wellness tourism industry development strategies for Chongqing Tea Mountain and Bamboo Forest National Park in China. The SWOT method was used to construct the strategy, while the AHP method and QSPM matrix were used to rank the selected strategies. The data used in the analysis were the survey questionnaire data of 356 individuals to construct the model to identify the strategies, and the interview data of 23 experts to rate the strategies using the Delphi method. The effectiveness of eight internal and seven external factors for forest wellness tourism was evaluated. The survey results highlight the most significant advantages of the Chongqing Tea Mountains and Bamboo Forest as being its “beautiful natural and unique scenery”, and its most significant shortcomings as its “insufficient supporting facilities and weak infrastructure”. The QSPM matrix analysis reveals that the ‘offensive strategy’ is the best. The results also emphasize the importance of “Protecting the diverse tourism resources to keep the market prospect and promote wellness industry development” in the study areas. Therefore, the potential of developing forest wellness tourism in this area should be considered and included in the agenda of policy makers to strengthen the development of forest wellness tourism, improve the economic status of the tourism of the jurisdiction, and create employment opportunities in tourism-related businesses. Full article
18 pages, 1269 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Soil Aggregate Stability and Organic Carbon in Northwestern China through Straw, Biochar, and Nitrogen Supplementation
by Jun Wu, Binqing Teng, Yuan Zhong, Xuejiao Duan, Lijuan Gong, Wanli Guo, Peng Qi, Fasih Ullah Haider and Liqun Cai
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 899; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050899 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Enhancing soil stability through the incorporation of straw and biochar is well documented. Nevertheless, the combined impact of straw, biochar, and nitrogen supplementation on soil aggregates and organic carbon still needs to be explored, with limited attention given to various sieving methods in [...] Read more.
Enhancing soil stability through the incorporation of straw and biochar is well documented. Nevertheless, the combined impact of straw, biochar, and nitrogen supplementation on soil aggregates and organic carbon still needs to be explored, with limited attention given to various sieving methods in the existing literature. Therefore, the current experiment used four sieving methods—routine wet sieving (RoutW), fast-wetting sieving (FastW), slow-wetting sieving (SlowW), and wetting–stirring sieving (WetS)—to investigate the effects of adding straw (0 or 4.5 t ha−1), biochar (from maize straw, 0 or 15 t ha−1), and N (0 or 100 kg ha−1) on soil aggregate stability and soil organic C in silt–loam soil of rainfed farmland in northwest China. The field experiment was started in 2014; soil samples were collected in 2021. The results revealed that straw returned, biochar, and N addition significantly increased soil mean weight diameter (MWD) and soil organic C (SOC). Compared to CN0 (zero-amendment) plots, straw returned with nitrogen addition (SN100) significantly increased the MWD of aggregates by 130.3% (RoutW), 121.66% (FastW), 73.94% (SlowW), and 91.78% (WetS) in the 0–30 cm soil layer. The addition of biochar and nitrogen (BN100) treatment showed the most significant effects on the relative slaking index (RSI), relative mechanical breakdown index (RMI), and SOC; compared with CN0 treatment, BN100 plots can reduce RSI and RMI by 42.90% and 54.66% and increase SOC by 53.27% for all soil layers. Therefore, adding organic materials with N can enhance the stability of soil aggregates and SOC of silt–loam soils in northwest China. Integrating biochar as an organic soil amendment in the agricultural practices of northwest China presents a multifaceted solution that addresses soil health, crop productivity, and environmental sustainability. The current study provides valuable insights that support adopting this innovative approach, paving the way for future sustainable agricultural practices that can benefit both the region and the global community. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
22 pages, 341 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Gamification on Slovenian Consumers’ Online Shopping
by Armand Faganel, Filip Pačarić and Igor Rižnar
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14050086 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Gamification involves integrating game mechanics into non-game environments such as business intranets, online communities, websites, and learning management systems to boost participation. Its aim is to actively engage employees, customers, and other stakeholders, fostering collaboration, sharing, and interaction. Gamification is a relatively unfamiliar [...] Read more.
Gamification involves integrating game mechanics into non-game environments such as business intranets, online communities, websites, and learning management systems to boost participation. Its aim is to actively engage employees, customers, and other stakeholders, fostering collaboration, sharing, and interaction. Gamification is a relatively unfamiliar term in Slovenia. The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of gamification on Slovenian consumers, specifically how it affects the online shopping process and user engagement during purchases. To test the hypotheses, we used appropriate statistical tools: chi-square, Friedman, and Wilcoxon tests. The findings indicate that gamification’s strongest influence is not on the post-purchase evaluation phase but rather on the alternative evaluation phase. It is interesting that highly rated reviewers significantly influence product purchases in online stores, while consumers are unwilling to increase their spending on online purchases in exchange for gamification-related benefits. Full article
11 pages, 864 KiB  
Article
Temporal Muscle Thickness Compared to Functional Scales as a Prognostic Parameter in Patients with Brain Metastases
by Julia Klingenschmid, Aleksandrs Krigers, Daniel Pinggera, Johannes Kerschbaumer, Nadine Pichler, Victoria Schön, Matthias Demetz, Astrid E. Grams, Claudius Thomé and Christian F. Freyschlag
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1660; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091660 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Metastases are the most frequent intracranial malignant tumors in adults. While Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) and Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) are known to have significant impact on overall survival (OS), temporal muscle thickness (TMT) has been postulated to be a promising new parameter [...] Read more.
Metastases are the most frequent intracranial malignant tumors in adults. While Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) and Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) are known to have significant impact on overall survival (OS), temporal muscle thickness (TMT) has been postulated to be a promising new parameter to estimate prognosis. Patients who received a resection of one to three brain metastases in our institution were included. Temporal muscle thickness was measured in preoperative MRI scans according to a standardized protocol. In 199 patients, the mean TMT was 7.5 mm (95CI 7.3–7.7) and the mean OS during follow-up was 31.3 months (95CI 24.2–38.3). There was no significant correlation of TMT and preoperative or follow-up CFS and KPS. While CFS and KPS did significantly correlate with OS (p < 0.001 for each), no correlation was demonstrated for TMT. CFS showed a superior prognostic value compared to KPS. TMT failed to show a significant impact on OS or patient performance, whereas the clinical scales (KPS and CFS) demonstrate a good correlation with OS. Due to its superiority over KPS, we strongly recommend the use of CFS to estimate OS in patients with brain metastases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Survivorship and Quality of Life)
20 pages, 1893 KiB  
Article
Rare Earth Elements in Shells of Black Sea Molluscs: Anomalies and Biogeochemical Implications
by Sergey V. Kapranov, Vitaliy I. Ryabushko, Juliya D. Dikareva, Larisa L. Kapranova, Nikolay I. Bobko and Sophia Barinova
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 713; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050713 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Rare earth elements (REE) are a class of increasingly used high-tech product components and new emerging environmental pollutants, which are accumulated, in particular, in marine biota. In this study, REE contents were estimated in shells of several molluscs common in the Black Sea. [...] Read more.
Rare earth elements (REE) are a class of increasingly used high-tech product components and new emerging environmental pollutants, which are accumulated, in particular, in marine biota. In this study, REE contents were estimated in shells of several molluscs common in the Black Sea. The summed REE contents in mollusc shells decreased in the following order of species: Magallana gigas = Anadara kagoshimensis > Flexopecten glaber ponticusRapana venosa > Mytilus galloprovincialis, ranging from 0.46 to 1.9 mg·kg−1. Canonical analysis of principal coordinates allowed for the correct identification of species based on the REE composition in no fewer than 67% of the samples. The mollusc shells were anomalously enriched in Sc, Y, La, Eu and Tb, most likely due to anthropogenic contamination. The Y/Ho ratios in all samples were represented by two fit values: 23.2 (chondritic) and 67.6 (superchondritic, mainly associated with A. kagoshimensis). A new universal relationship linking the contents of three light and heavy REE in Black Sea mollusc shells was proposed: Ce0.3 Er0.7⁄Yb = 2.00 ± 0.46 (mean ± standard deviation). Full article
13 pages, 1066 KiB  
Article
Occupational Safety Assessment for Surface Mine Systems: The Case in Jordan
by Samir K. Khrais, Tamer Elia Yared, Noor Majid Saifan, Tarek H. Al-Hawari and Fikri Dweiri
Safety 2024, 10(2), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10020040 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Surface mining is one of the hazardous industries that have several risky operations, including transportation, treatment, and mineral extraction. To avoid the risk of disaster, it is important to evaluate safety procedures and determine expected hazards. The aim of this study is to [...] Read more.
Surface mining is one of the hazardous industries that have several risky operations, including transportation, treatment, and mineral extraction. To avoid the risk of disaster, it is important to evaluate safety procedures and determine expected hazards. The aim of this study is to develop a thorough safety evaluation model for the surface mining industry based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), one important multi-criteria decision-making approach. A total of 11 criteria and 36 sub-criteria that are both independent and homogeneous were involved in the decision problem. Further, a deep sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the stability of the ranking preference. The findings indicate that four out of the eleven criteria are particularly significant. To test the model’s applicability and effectiveness, a case study was conducted involving three surface mining companies located in the north of Jordan. The results demonstrate that the model is reliable, applicable, and effective in addressing real-world problems. Full article
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14 pages, 826 KiB  
Article
Effects of Deuterium Depletion on Age-Declining Thymopoiesis In Vivo
by Nataliya V. Yaglova, Sergey S. Obernikhin, Ekaterina P. Timokhina, Dibakhan A. Tsomartova, Valentin V. Yaglov, Svetlana V. Nazimova, Elina S. Tsomartova, Marina Y. Ivanova, Elizaveta V. Chereshneva and Tatiana A. Lomanovskaya
Biomedicines 2024, 12(5), 956; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12050956 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The thymus provides maturation and migration of T cells to peripheral organs of immunity, where they recognize diverse antigens and maintain immunological memory and self-tolerance. The thymus is known to be involved with age and in response to stress factors. Therefore, the search [...] Read more.
The thymus provides maturation and migration of T cells to peripheral organs of immunity, where they recognize diverse antigens and maintain immunological memory and self-tolerance. The thymus is known to be involved with age and in response to stress factors. Therefore, the search for approaches to the restoration of thymopoiesis is of great interest. The present investigation was aimed at evaluating how prolonged deuterium depletion affects morphogenetic processes and the physiological transition of the thymus to age-related involution. The study was performed on 60 male Wistar rats subjected to consumption of deuterium-depleted water with a 10 ppm deuterium content for 28 days. The control rats consumed distilled water with a normal deuterium content of 150 ppm. The examination found no significant differences in body weight gain or the amount of water consumed. The exposed rats exhibited similar to control dynamics of the thymus weight but significant changes in thymic cell maturation according to cytofluorimetric analysis of thymic subpopulations. Changes in T cell production were not monotonic and differentially engaged morphogenetic processes of cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. The reactive response to deuterium depletion was a sharp increase in the number of progenitor CD4CD8 cells and their differentiation into T cells. The compensatory reaction was inhibition of thymopoiesis with more pronounced suppression of differentiation of T-cytotoxic lymphocytes, followed by intensification of emigration of mature T cells to the bloodstream. This period lasts from 3 to 14 days, then differentiation of thymic lymphocytes is restored, later cell proliferation is activated, and finally the thymopoiesis rate exceeds the control values. The increase in the number of thymic progenitor cells after 3–4 weeks suggests consideration of deuterium elimination as a novel approach to prevent thymus involution. Full article
24 pages, 3021 KiB  
Article
Influence of TiO2 Nanoparticles on the Physical, Mechanical, and Structural Characteristics of Cementitious Composites with Recycled Aggregates
by Carmen Teodora Florean, Horațiu Vermeșan, Timea Gabor, Bogdan Viorel Neamțu, Gyorgy Thalmaier, Andreea Hegyi, Alexandra Csapai and Adrian-Victor Lăzărescu
Materials 2024, 17(9), 2014; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17092014 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles (NTs) on the physical and mechanical properties, as well as the microstructural changes, of cementitious composites containing partially substituted natural aggregates (NAs) with aggregates derived from [...] Read more.
The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles (NTs) on the physical and mechanical properties, as well as the microstructural changes, of cementitious composites containing partially substituted natural aggregates (NAs) with aggregates derived from the following four recycled materials: glass (RGA), brick (RGB), blast-furnace slag (GBA), and recycled textolite waste with WEEE (waste from electrical and electronic equipment) as the primary source (RTA), in line with sustainable construction practices. The research methodology included the following phases: selection and characterization of raw materials, formulation design, experimental preparation and testing of specimens using standardized methods specific to cementitious composite mortars (including determination of apparent density in the hardened state, mechanical strength in compression, flexure, and abrasion, and water absorption by capillarity), and structural analysis using specialized techniques (scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS)). The analysis and interpretation of the results focused primarily on identifying the effects of NT addition on the composites. Results show a decrease in density resulting from replacing NAs with recycled aggregates, particularly in the case of RGB and RTA. Conversely, the introduction of TiO2 nanoparticles resulted in a slight increase in density, ranging from 0.2% for RTA to 7.4% for samples containing NAs. Additionally, the introduction of TiO2 contributes to improved compressive strength, especially in samples containing RTA, while flexural strength benefits from a 3–4% TiO2 addition in all composites. The compressive strength ranged from 35.19 to 70.13 N/mm2, while the flexural strength ranged from 8.4 to 10.47 N/mm2. The abrasion loss varied between 2.4% and 5.71%, and the water absorption coefficient varied between 0.03 and 0.37 kg/m2m0.5, the variations being influenced by both the nature of the aggregates and the amount of NTs added. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis showed that TiO2 nanoparticles are uniformly distributed in the cementitious composites, mainly forming CSH gel. TiO2 nanoparticles act as nucleating agents during early hydration, as confirmed by EDS spectra after curing. Full article
20 pages, 1049 KiB  
Article
Influencing Factors and Mechanisms of Corporate Social Responsibility Reputation under Green and Low-Carbon Transition: Evidence from Chinese Listed Companies
by Shuke Fu, Mengxia Tian, Yingchen Ge, Tingting Yao and Jiali Tian
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2044; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092044 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Amid China’s pursuit of a green and low-carbon transition, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is facing new challenges. Our research delves into the influencing factors and mechanisms for CSR reputation under green and low-carbon transition and provides practical enlightenment for enterprises to achieve sustainable [...] Read more.
Amid China’s pursuit of a green and low-carbon transition, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is facing new challenges. Our research delves into the influencing factors and mechanisms for CSR reputation under green and low-carbon transition and provides practical enlightenment for enterprises to achieve sustainable development. This paper constructs a comprehensive index system of CSR from five dimensions (innovation, coordination, sustainability, openness, and sharing), and CSR reputation of China’s A-share listed companies is comprehensively estimated by using an entropy method and data from 2013 to 2021. Then, from the perspective of external supervision and internal governance, we discuss the influence factors of CSR reputation, with an emphasis on the impact of public environmental concerns. Finally, the realization mechanism of CSR is further revealed. It is found that public environmental concern and the expansion of the enterprise scale boost the enhancement of CSR reputation. However, a higher proportion of female managers tends to hinder CSR reputation. Furthermore, public environmental concern plays a more prominent role in improving CSR reputation of non-state-owned and eastern enterprises. Additionally, public environmental concern significantly enhances CSR reputation through green technology innovation and executive environmental awareness. This research provides valuable insights for improving CSR reputation and optimizing regulatory compliance and governance practices. Full article
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15 pages, 512 KiB  
Article
Recognizable Languages of k-Forcing Automata
by Marzieh Shamsizadeh, Mohammad Mehdi Zahedi, Khadijeh Abolpour and Manuel De la Sen
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/mca29030032 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this study, we show that automata theory is also a suitable tool for analyzing a more complex type of the k-forcing process. First, the definition of k-forcing automata is presented according to the definition of k-forcing for graphs. Moreover, we study and [...] Read more.
In this study, we show that automata theory is also a suitable tool for analyzing a more complex type of the k-forcing process. First, the definition of k-forcing automata is presented according to the definition of k-forcing for graphs. Moreover, we study and discuss the language of k-forcing automata for particular graphs. Also, for some graphs with different k-forcing sets, we study the languages of their k-forcing automata. In addition, for some given recognizable languages, we study the structure of graphs. After that, we show that k-forcing automata arising from isomorph graphs are also isomorph. Also, we present the style of words that can be recognized with k-forcing automata. Moreover, we introduce the structure of graphs the k-forcing automata arising from which recognize some particular languages. To clarify the notions and the results obtained in this study, some examples are submitted as well. Full article
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14 pages, 2990 KiB  
Article
Charge Storage Properties of Ferrimagnetic BaFe12O19 and Polypyrrole–BaFe12O19 Composites
by Silin Chen and Igor Zhitomirsky
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 1979; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29091979 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This investigation is motivated by an interest in multiferroic BaFe12O19 (BFO), which combines advanced ferrimagnetic and ferroelectric properties at room temperature and exhibits interesting magnetoelectric phenomena. The ferroelectric charge storage properties of BFO are limited due to high coercivity, low [...] Read more.
This investigation is motivated by an interest in multiferroic BaFe12O19 (BFO), which combines advanced ferrimagnetic and ferroelectric properties at room temperature and exhibits interesting magnetoelectric phenomena. The ferroelectric charge storage properties of BFO are limited due to high coercivity, low dielectric constant, and high dielectric losses. We report the pseudocapacitive behavior of BFO, which allows superior charge storage compared to the ferroelectric charge storage mechanism. The BFO electrodes show a remarkably high capacitance of 1.34 F cm−2 in a neutral Na2SO4 electrolyte. The charging mechanism is discussed. The capacitive behavior is linked to the beneficial effect of high-energy ball milling (HEBM) and the use of an efficient dispersant, which facilitates charge transfer. Another approach is based on the use of conductive polypyrrole (PPy) for the fabrication of PPy-BFO composites. The choice of new polyaromatic dopants with a high charge-to-mass ratio plays a crucial role in achieving a high capacitance of 4.66 F cm−2 for pure PPy electrodes. The composite PPy-BFO (50/50) electrodes show a capacitance of 3.39 F cm−2, low impedance, reduced charge transfer resistance, enhanced capacitance retention at fast charging rates, and good cyclic stability due to the beneficial effect of advanced dopants, HEBM, and synergy of the contribution of PPy and BFO. Full article
31 pages, 1077 KiB  
Article
How Does Digital Leadership Foster Employee Innovative Behavior: A Cognitive–Affective Processing System Perspective
by Pengbin Gao and Yinghui Gao
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050362 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Employee innovative behavior is crucial for organizations to engage in innovative activities and gain competitive advantages in the context of digital transformation. Despite many studies having focused on the relationship between leadership and employee innovative behavior, the role of digital leadership and the [...] Read more.
Employee innovative behavior is crucial for organizations to engage in innovative activities and gain competitive advantages in the context of digital transformation. Despite many studies having focused on the relationship between leadership and employee innovative behavior, the role of digital leadership and the underlying mechanisms for employee innovative behavior remain unclear. Using the cognitive–affective processing system framework, the study investigated the dual mediating role of psychological empowerment and affective commitment between digital leadership and employee innovative behavior and the moderating role of a proactive personality in such relationships. Employing data from 359 employees, the study conducted structure equation modeling to examine the hypotheses. The results show that digital leadership influences employee innovative behavior through psychological empowerment but not affective commitment. Furthermore, a proactive personality does not moderate the direct effect of digital leadership on psychological empowerment and affective commitment or the indirect effect of digital leadership on employee innovative behavior. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behaviors)
22 pages, 11461 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Stable Control Strategy for a Typical Underactuated Manipulator Considering Several Uncertainties
by Zixin Huang, Wei Wang, Ba Zeng, Chengsong Yu and Yaosheng Zhou
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3663; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093663 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This article proposes a comprehensive stable control strategy for the planar multi-link underactuated manipulator (PMLUM), considering several uncertainties. According to the nilpotent approximation property, the control procedure is split into two stages. In the first stage of control, we postulate the idea of [...] Read more.
This article proposes a comprehensive stable control strategy for the planar multi-link underactuated manipulator (PMLUM), considering several uncertainties. According to the nilpotent approximation property, the control procedure is split into two stages. In the first stage of control, we postulate the idea of model degradation, reducing the PMLUM to a planar virtual Pendubot (PVP). This occurs by controlling the active link (AL) to a specific desired position and the passive link (PL) moves along with it. When the AL moves to the desired position, the second phase of control is entered. Meanwhile, all ALs are regarded as a whole, so the PMLUM can be regarded as a mechanical arm with 2-DOF. In the second stage of control, due to the nilpotent approximation feature of the PVP, the PVP is guided to the desired angle using the iterative steering technique. Simulation experiments are carried out on active–active–passive (AAP) and active–active–active–passive (AAAP) systems under major uncertainties, which contain initial velocity and torque disturbances. The final results validate the effectiveness of the method proposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Robotics and Automation)
14 pages, 754 KiB  
Review
Reflections on the Origin of Coded Protein Biosynthesis
by Juan Carlos Fontecilla-Camps
Biomolecules 2024, 14(5), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14050518 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The principle of continuity posits that some central features of primordial biocatalytic mechanisms should still be present in the genetically dependent pathway of protein synthesis, a crucial step in the emergence of life. Key bimolecular reactions of this process are catalyzed by DNA-dependent [...] Read more.
The principle of continuity posits that some central features of primordial biocatalytic mechanisms should still be present in the genetically dependent pathway of protein synthesis, a crucial step in the emergence of life. Key bimolecular reactions of this process are catalyzed by DNA-dependent RNA polymerases, aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, and ribosomes. Remarkably, none of these biocatalysts contribute chemically active groups to their respective reactions. Instead, structural and functional studies have demonstrated that nucleotidic α-phosphate and β-d-ribosyl 2′ OH and 3′ OH groups can help their own catalysis, a process which, consequently, has been called “substrate-assisted”. Furthermore, upon binding, the substrates significantly lower the entropy of activation, exclude water from these catalysts’ active sites, and are readily positioned for a reaction. This binding mode has been described as an “entropy trap”. The combination of this effect with substrate-assisted catalysis results in reactions that are stereochemically and mechanistically simpler than the ones found in most modern enzymes. This observation is consistent with the way in which primordial catalysts could have operated; it may also explain why, thanks to their complementary reactivities, β-d-ribose and phosphate were naturally selected to be the central components of early coding polymers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Enzymology)
11 pages, 395 KiB  
Article
Assessing Uveitis Risk following Pediatric Down Syndrome Diagnosis: A TriNetX Database Study
by Alan Y. Hsu, Yu-Hsun Wang, Chun-Ju Lin, You-Ling Li, Ning-Yi Hsia, Chun-Ting Lai, Hou-Ting Kuo, Huan-Sheng Chen, Yi-Yu Tsai and James Cheng-Chung Wei
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050710 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The risks of uveitis development among pediatric patients with Down syndrome (DS) remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to determine the risk of uveitis following a diagnosis of DS. Materials and Methods: This multi-institutional retrospective cohort study utilized the TriNetX database [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The risks of uveitis development among pediatric patients with Down syndrome (DS) remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to determine the risk of uveitis following a diagnosis of DS. Materials and Methods: This multi-institutional retrospective cohort study utilized the TriNetX database to identify individuals aged 18 years and younger with and without a diagnosis of DS between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2023. The non-DS cohort consisted of randomly selected control patients matched by selected variables. This included gender, age, ethnicity, and certain comorbidities. The main outcome is the incidence of new-onset uveitis. Statistical analysis of the uveitis risk was reported using hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Separate analyses of the uveitis risk among DS patients based on age groups and gender were also performed. Results: A total of 53,993 individuals with DS (46.83% female, 58.26% white, mean age at index 5.21 ± 5.76 years) and 53,993 non-DS individuals (45.56% female, 58.28% white, mean age at index 5.21 ± 5.76 years) were recruited from the TriNetX database. Our analysis also showed no overall increased risk of uveitis among DS patients (HR: 1.33 [CI: 0.89–1.99]) compared to the non-DS cohort across the 23-year study period. Subgroup analyses based on different age groups showed that those aged 0–1 year (HR: 1.36 [CI: 0.68–2.72]), 0–5 years (HR: 1.34 [CI: 0.75–2.39]), and 6–18 years (HR: 1.15 [CI: 0.67–1.96]) were found to have no association with uveitis risk compared to their respective non-DS comparators. There was also no increased risk of uveitis among females (HR: 1.49 [CI: 0.87–2.56]) or males (HR: 0.82 [CI: 0.48–1.41]) with DS compared to their respective non-DS comparators. Conclusions: Our study found no overall increased risk of uveitis following a diagnosis of DS compared to a matched control population. Full article
17 pages, 333 KiB  
Article
The Linkage between Corporate Research and Development Intensity and Stock Returns: Empirical Evidence
by Sameena Ghazal, Tariq Aziz, Mosab I. Tabash and Krzysztof Drachal
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2024, 17(5), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17050180 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Research and development (R&D) is a significant driver of innovation that leads to superior performance. The present study attempts to examine the relationship between R&D intensity and a firm’s performance at both aggregate and industry levels in the emerging market of India using [...] Read more.
Research and development (R&D) is a significant driver of innovation that leads to superior performance. The present study attempts to examine the relationship between R&D intensity and a firm’s performance at both aggregate and industry levels in the emerging market of India using a battery of R&D intensity measures and stock market returns as a measure of a firm’s performance. The study was conducted on 1097 companies from six R&D-intensive industries. The Fama-French portfolio formation method was used to evaluate the stock market performance of R&D-intensive firms for both equal-weighted (EW) and value-weighted (VW) returns. The findings suggest that R&D intensity and stock returns show a positive relationship. A long–short strategy in R&D-intense firms has yielded 1.43% (t = 4.22) per month in the sample. In general, the results suggest an undervaluation of highly R&D-intensive firms that investors can exploit for above-average returns. The effect is not homogeneous across return schemes (equal-weighted and value-weighted) or across industries. R&D growth measures and R&D capital are not found to have significant impacts on stock returns. Both the market firm size and age are included as control variables, and the results reveal that the relationship is robust to these control variables. The sub-periods ranging from 2000 to 2007 and 2008 to 2019 have been considered in the present study and the results are consistent with the overall sample. The study fills the existing empirical void for R&D intensity and stock returns in relation to the emerging market of India. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Financial Markets)
17 pages, 4682 KiB  
Article
Purified Pyropia yezoensis Pigment Extract-Based Tandem Dye Synthesis
by Hojun Lee, Taejun Han and Jihae Park
Mar. Drugs 2024, 22(5), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/md22050197 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Red phycoerythrin (R-PE) is a highly valuable protein found in an edible seaweed, Pyropia yezoensis. It is used extensively in biotechnological applications due to its strong fluorescence and stability in diverse environments. However, the current methods for extracting and purifying R-PE are [...] Read more.
Red phycoerythrin (R-PE) is a highly valuable protein found in an edible seaweed, Pyropia yezoensis. It is used extensively in biotechnological applications due to its strong fluorescence and stability in diverse environments. However, the current methods for extracting and purifying R-PE are costly and unsustainable. The aim of the present study was to enhance the financial viability of the process by improving the extraction and purification of R-PE from dried P. yezoensis and to further enhance R-PE value by incorporating it into a tandem dye for molecular biology applications. A combination of ultrafiltration, ion exchange chromatography, and gel filtration yielded concentrated (1 mg·mL–1) R-PE at 99% purity. Using purified PE and Cyanine5 (Cy5), an organic tandem dye, phycoerythrin-Cy5 (PE-Cy5), was subsequently established. In comparison to a commercially available tandem dye, PE-Cy5 exhibited 202.3% stronger fluorescence, rendering it suitable for imaging and analyzes that require high sensitivity, enhanced signal-to-noise ratio, broad dynamic range, or shorter exposure times to minimize potential damage to samples. The techno-economic analysis confirmed the financial feasibility of the innovative technique for the extraction and purification of R-PE and PE-Cy5 production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Biotechnology Related to Drug Discovery or Production)
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