The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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15 pages, 1694 KiB  
Article
Introducing a Novel Concept for an Integrated Demolition Waste Recycling Center and the Establishment of a Stakeholder Network: A Case Study from Germany
by Magdalena Zabek, Pauline Jegen and Lillith Kreiss
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 3916; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16103916 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
Using recycled aggregates has many positive environmental impacts because of the conservation of natural resources and minimization of waste. The use of recycled aggregates in downcycling processes is already common in Germany, whereas utilizing them to produce high-quality recycled concrete is rarely applied [...] Read more.
Using recycled aggregates has many positive environmental impacts because of the conservation of natural resources and minimization of waste. The use of recycled aggregates in downcycling processes is already common in Germany, whereas utilizing them to produce high-quality recycled concrete is rarely applied in practice. The reasons behind this lag have been investigated based on surveys and interviews with stakeholders. Miscommunication and missing information were identified in all stakeholder groups. Therefore, establishing a robust network and facilitating knowledge transfer by specifying the demand for recycled aggregates in the case study region have been considered as prerequisites. Therefore, the paper presents a novel concept of a stakeholder network for an integrated construction and demolition waste center. The conceptualization integrates the recycling companies and construction product manufacturers in one venue with research, service, and educational divisions. The design of the facilities is based on calculations regarding future construction activities and the demand for concrete production. The proposed concept aims to supply the region in the west of Germany with high-quality recycled products while also establishing a robust network that offers benefits in terms of logistical optimization and knowledge transfer. Full article
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16 pages, 7426 KiB  
Article
Elasto-Plastic Analysis of Two-Way Reinforced Concrete Slabs Strengthened with Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Laminates
by Zahraa Saleem Sharhan and Majid Movahedi Rad
Computation 2024, 12(5), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/computation12050093 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
This study explores a technique for enhancing the punching strength of reinforced concrete (RC) flat slabs, namely carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP). Four large-scale RC flat slabs were fabricated, to assess the efficacy of this strengthening method. One slab served as a reference [...] Read more.
This study explores a technique for enhancing the punching strength of reinforced concrete (RC) flat slabs, namely carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP). Four large-scale RC flat slabs were fabricated, to assess the efficacy of this strengthening method. One slab served as a reference and the three other specimens were strengthened with CFRP, as a method of external strengthening. These slabs, featuring identical overall dimensions and flexural steel reinforcement, underwent testing until failure, under the influence of concentrated patch loads. A concrete plastic damage constitutive model (CDP) was developed and employed to examine the strength of two-way RC slabs. Additionally, to enhance the strength of existing RC slabs, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) strips are affixed to the tension surface of the sections. The research begins with the calibration of a numerical model, based on data from laboratory tests. The objective of this study is to constrain the plastic behavior of two-way RC slabs reinforced with CFRP, with a focus on establishing an optimal elasto-plastic analysis, aimed at controlling concrete damage plasticity using CFRP, and employing a plastic limit load multiplier. Subsequently, a series of numerical simulations, incorporating different variables, are conducted to investigate shear behavior. The numerical results indicate that an increase in the strengthening ratio has a significant impact on shear strength. Finite element simulations are carried out using Abaqus CAE®/2018. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computational Engineering)
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7 pages, 1898 KiB  
Communication
Synthesis and Structure of a Coordination Polymer of Ni(II) with 2-(4-Bromophenoxy)acetohydrazide
by Оlena Martsynko, Mariia Nesterkina, Оlena Finik, Kyrylo Tsymbaliuk, Viktoriya Dyakonenko, Svitlana Shishkina and Iryna Kravchenko
Molbank 2024, 2024(2), M1819; https://doi.org/10.3390/M1819 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
The coordination compound [NiCl2L(2-PrOH)]n (where L is 2-(4-bromophenoxy)acetohydrazide; 2-PrOH is isopropanol) was obtained for the first time. The complex was characterized by means of elemental analyses, molar conductance, thermogravimetric analysis, IR spectroscopy, and single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. It was [...] Read more.
The coordination compound [NiCl2L(2-PrOH)]n (where L is 2-(4-bromophenoxy)acetohydrazide; 2-PrOH is isopropanol) was obtained for the first time. The complex was characterized by means of elemental analyses, molar conductance, thermogravimetric analysis, IR spectroscopy, and single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. It was determined that the coordination compound exhibits a polymeric structure. The complexing agent is six-coordinated, and its distorted octahedron forms due to the bidentate coordination of 2-(4-bromophenoxy)acetohydrazide through the carbonyl oxygen atom and the amine nitrogen. The oxygen of the molecule of isopropanol, the chlorine atom, and two chlorine atoms serve as bridges between two metal atoms. Full article
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14 pages, 5622 KiB  
Article
Identification of Damping of Spruce Wood (Picea abies) under Various Levels of Moisture Content Using Time-Scale Decomposition
by Miran Merhar
Polymers 2024, 16(10), 1313; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16101313 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
The damping of spruce wood is analysed at different moisture content levels for the first three vibration modes of tangentially and radially vibrating samples. Two methods were used to determine the damping. The first was the vibration envelope fitting as an improved version [...] Read more.
The damping of spruce wood is analysed at different moisture content levels for the first three vibration modes of tangentially and radially vibrating samples. Two methods were used to determine the damping. The first was the vibration envelope fitting as an improved version of the well-known logarithmic decrement, and the second was the newer and recently increasingly used wavelet transform. Both methods showed that the damping of spruce wood first decreases and then increases with moisture content, with the damping in the first vibration mode being about 9% higher in the radial direction than in the tangential direction. In the second and third vibration modes, the damping in the tangential direction was higher than in the radial direction by about 10% and 8.8%, respectively. The measured damping factors from the envelope fitting had, on average, 15.9% higher values than those from the wavelet transform. It can be concluded from the results that the wavelet transform is more accurate for determining the damping factor, as it enables the decoupling of multi-degree of freedom systems if mode coupling is present. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Wood-Based Materials and Wood Polymer Composites)
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10 pages, 309 KiB  
Article
An Encounter between Christian Medical Missions and Chinese Medicine in Modern History: The Case of Benjamin Hobson
by Man Kong Wong
Religions 2024, 15(5), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15050583 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
This article discusses how and why Christian medical missionaries established their foothold in Chinese society through the medical career of Benjamin Hobson, who was active in China from the late 1830s to the 1850s. Apart from his evangelical work among the Chinese, one [...] Read more.
This article discusses how and why Christian medical missionaries established their foothold in Chinese society through the medical career of Benjamin Hobson, who was active in China from the late 1830s to the 1850s. Apart from his evangelical work among the Chinese, one of his key contributions was the new medical vocabularies he created to communicate medical knowledge. In addition to literary considerations, Hobson had his strategies for sharing modern medical knowledge. Moreover, he was prepared to debate with the Chinese over the validity of the pulse theory. The debate did not happen, however. His intention to establish the case for the superior position of Western medicine was not contested. His medical texts, at best, became the necessary underpinning for introducing modern Western medicine to China. When Western medical college projects took place in China at the turn of the century, biomedicine took over as the key paradigm, with Hobson’s medical texts being of limited use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Expressions of Chinese Christianity in Texts and Contexts)
23 pages, 15215 KiB  
Article
Engineering Drawing Applied to the Study of the Design of a Two-Cylinder Entablature Steam Engine with Parallel Motion Crosshead
by José Ignacio Rojas-Sola and Juan Carlos Barranco-Molina
Symmetry 2024, 16(5), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16050578 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
This article presents an investigation into a historical invention consisting of a stationary steam engine designed by Henry Muncaster: a two-cylinder entablature steam engine with parallel motion crosshead. The present interdisciplinary research, based on the theoretical and methodological concepts of engineering drawing and [...] Read more.
This article presents an investigation into a historical invention consisting of a stationary steam engine designed by Henry Muncaster: a two-cylinder entablature steam engine with parallel motion crosshead. The present interdisciplinary research, based on the theoretical and methodological concepts of engineering drawing and computer-aided design, has allowed us to understand the operation of this invention from the 3D CAD model of the invention obtained thanks to the original drawings published in the magazine Model Engineer in 1957 and reproduced in 2017, since there is no descriptive information related to the invention. However, there have been drawbacks in the geometric modeling process since the dimensions of some components did not exist and in other cases they were erroneous. For this reason, dimensional, geometric and movement constraints (degrees of freedom) had to be applied so that said 3D CAD model would be coherent and functional, and an interference analysis also had to be performed. Finally, the existing symmetry in the arrangement of the cylinders and the crosshead has been discovered, it being essential to guarantee that the forces and movements are uniform on both sides of the steam engine, and allowing the work to be carried out in a more balanced manner by reducing vibrations and improving the overall efficiency of the invention. Full article
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12 pages, 2246 KiB  
Article
The Role of Methylation Analysis in Distinguishing Cellular Myxoma from Low-Grade Myxofibrosarcoma
by Hanna Henzinger, Iva Brčić, Jasminka Igrec, Theresa Marie Godschachner, Susanne Scheipl, Joanna Szkandera, Philipp Jurmeister and Bernadette Liegl-Atzwanger
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5105; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105105 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
Cellular myxoma is a benign soft tissue tumor frequently associated with GNAS mutation that may morphologically resemble low-grade myxofibrosarcoma. This study aimed to identify the undescribed methylation profile of cellular myxoma and compare it to myxofibrosarcoma. We performed molecular analysis on twenty cellular [...] Read more.
Cellular myxoma is a benign soft tissue tumor frequently associated with GNAS mutation that may morphologically resemble low-grade myxofibrosarcoma. This study aimed to identify the undescribed methylation profile of cellular myxoma and compare it to myxofibrosarcoma. We performed molecular analysis on twenty cellular myxomas and nine myxofibrosarcomas and analyzed the results using the methylation-based DKFZ sarcoma classifier. A total of 90% of the cellular myxomas had GNAS mutations (four loci had not been previously described). Copy number variations were found in all myxofibrosarcomas but in none of the cellular myxomas. In the classifier, none of the cellular myxomas reached the 0.9 threshold. Unsupervised t-SNE analysis demonstrated that cellular myxomas form their own clusters, distinct from myxofibrosarcomas. Our study shows the diagnostic potential and the limitations of molecular analysis in cases where morphology and immunohistochemistry are not sufficient to distinguish cellular myxoma from myxofibrosarcoma, particularly regarding GNAS wild-type tumors. The DKFZ sarcoma classifier only provided a valid prediction for one myxofibrosarcoma case; this limitation could be improved by training the tool with a more considerable number of cases. Additionally, the classifier should be introduced to a broader spectrum of mesenchymal neoplasms, including benign tumors like cellular myxoma, whose distinct methylation pattern we demonstrated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)
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24 pages, 2799 KiB  
Review
Building Information Modelling Facility Management (BIM-FM)
by Lucy J. Lovell, Richard J. Davies and Dexter V. L. Hunt
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 3977; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14103977 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
Defined digital Facilities’ Management (FM) systems will contribute to the realisation of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11. Of the available digital FM systems, Building Information Modelling (BIM) for FM, herein referred to as BIM-FM, is the least developed. Where BIM-FM [...] Read more.
Defined digital Facilities’ Management (FM) systems will contribute to the realisation of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11. Of the available digital FM systems, Building Information Modelling (BIM) for FM, herein referred to as BIM-FM, is the least developed. Where BIM-FM varies from existing digital FM tools is its advanced 3D visualisation capabilities. A semi-structured literature review is undertaken to assess the current implementation of BIM-FM and identify opportunities to engender its increased adoption. This paper is part of an ongoing piece of research aimed at defining a standard methodology for the application of BIM to historically significant structures, otherwise known as Historic BIM (HBIM). Two existing approaches to BIM-FM, current and developing, are outlined. The potential value BIM-FM can provide according to the literature is discussed but there exists minimal practical evidence to justify these claims. Barriers to its adoption are discussed, with a key underlying barrier found to be a lack of defined user requirements. Consequently, functional, modelling and information requirements established within the literature are identified, and existing attempts at realising the requirements are discussed. Six information categories and two functional requirements are identified. It is theorised that the tendency to utilise simplified geometric models for FM is primarily due to software and practical limitations as opposed to actual end user needs, and it is suggested that this should be investigated further in future work. Attempts at realising BIM-FM user requirements using other advanced technologies, primarily Digital Twins, are investigated and found to be an area of increasing commonality. A new conception of BIM-FM is proposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Civil Engineering)
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22 pages, 1164 KiB  
Systematic Review
Potential Environmental Reservoirs of Candida auris: A Systematic Review
by Isabel Silva, Isabel M. Miranda and Sofia Costa-de-Oliveira
J. Fungi 2024, 10(5), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10050336 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant yeast, poses significant challenges in healthcare settings worldwide. Understanding its environmental reservoirs is crucial for effective control strategies. This systematic review aimed to review the literature regarding the natural and environmental reservoirs of C. auris. Following the PRISMA [...] Read more.
Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant yeast, poses significant challenges in healthcare settings worldwide. Understanding its environmental reservoirs is crucial for effective control strategies. This systematic review aimed to review the literature regarding the natural and environmental reservoirs of C. auris. Following the PRISMA guidelines, published studies until October 2023 were searched in three databases: PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. Information regarding the origin, sampling procedure, methods for laboratory identification, and antifungal susceptibility was collected and analyzed. Thirty-three studies published between 2016 and 2023 in 15 countries were included and analyzed. C. auris was detected in various environments, including wastewater treatment plants, hospital patient care surfaces, and natural environments such as salt marshes, sand, seawater, estuaries, apples, and dogs. Detection methods varied, with molecular techniques often used alongside culture. Susceptibility profiles revealed resistance patterns. Phylogenetic studies highlight the potential of environmental strains to influence clinical infections. Despite methodological heterogeneity, this review provides valuable information for future research and highlights the need for standardized sampling and detection protocols to mitigate C. auris transmission. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Invasive Candidiasis)
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22 pages, 1454 KiB  
Review
Building a Greener Future: Advancing Concrete Production Sustainability and the Thermal Properties of 3D-Printed Mortars
by Ana Paula Capêto, Manuel Jesus, Braian E. B. Uribe, Ana Sofia Guimarães and Ana L. S. Oliveira
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051323 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
The integration of waste materials in extrudable cement mixtures has the potential to make the construction industry more sustainable by reducing carbon footprints and developing eco-friendly materials. This along with advancements in 3D concrete printing (3DCP) provides engineering and architectural benefits by reducing [...] Read more.
The integration of waste materials in extrudable cement mixtures has the potential to make the construction industry more sustainable by reducing carbon footprints and developing eco-friendly materials. This along with advancements in 3D concrete printing (3DCP) provides engineering and architectural benefits by reducing material waste and costs. In this paper, the impact of waste incorporation on properties of mortar and concrete is examined. The use of waste materials, such as pumice, coal slag, agricultural lignocellulosic residues, and recycled rubber tyres, to improve thermal insulation and durability of cementitious composites is discussed. In addition, the incorporation of air-entraining admixtures with surfactant activity is explored for their indirect effect on thermal behaviour, pore size reduction, and enhancement in concrete properties. This review includes important topics such as a strength resistance to freezing and thawing, fire resistance, plasticising effect, and delay in cement hydration. These findings highlight the benefits of using diverse waste materials in construction, providing a multidimensional approach to waste management, cost optimization, and enhanced construction materials in the context of 3DCP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Technologies Transforming Construction Design)
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15 pages, 296 KiB  
Communication
The Effect of Renewable Phosphorus Biofertilizers on Selected Wheat Grain Quality Parameters
by Magdalena Jastrzębska, Marta K. Kostrzewska and Agnieszka Saeid
Agriculture 2024, 14(5), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14050727 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
Recycling and reusing phosphorus in agriculture can reduce the consumption of natural phosphorus resources, which are continuing to shrink. Phosphorus fertilizers made from renewable raw materials (sewage sludge ash, animal bones, dried animal blood) and activated with phosphorus solubilizing microorganisms (Bacillus megaterium [...] Read more.
Recycling and reusing phosphorus in agriculture can reduce the consumption of natural phosphorus resources, which are continuing to shrink. Phosphorus fertilizers made from renewable raw materials (sewage sludge ash, animal bones, dried animal blood) and activated with phosphorus solubilizing microorganisms (Bacillus megaterium, Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans) offer an alternative to conventional fertilizers. These products should meet consumer and environmental safety standards. In this paper, based on field experiments conducted in northeast Poland, the effects of waste-derived biofertilizers on selected parameters of wheat yield quality are discussed. The study focuses on the technological properties of the grain (hectoliter weight, hardness index, Zeleny index, starch, wet gluten, and protein content), the content of proteogenic amino acids, macro- and micronutrients, and selected toxic elements in the grain. The quality parameters of wheat grain were not affected by the tested biofertilizers applied in P doses up to 35.2 kg ha−1, nor by conventional fertilizers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Management and Efficient Use of Nutrients in Crop Systems)
15 pages, 1873 KiB  
Article
Ultrasonically Assisted Electrocoagulation Combined with Zeolite in Compost Wastewater Treatment
by Sandra Svilović, Nediljka Vukojević Medvidović, Ladislav Vrsalović, Senka Gudić and Ana-Marija Mikulandra
Processes 2024, 12(5), 951; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050951 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, the possibility of combining electrocoagulation (EC), ultrasound, and the addition of zeolite for wastewater treatment was investigated for the first time. The following combinations of hybrid processes were tested: electrocoagulation with zeolite (ECZ), simultaneous electrocoagulation with zeolite and ultrasound (ECZ+US), [...] Read more.
In this paper, the possibility of combining electrocoagulation (EC), ultrasound, and the addition of zeolite for wastewater treatment was investigated for the first time. The following combinations of hybrid processes were tested: electrocoagulation with zeolite (ECZ), simultaneous electrocoagulation with zeolite and ultrasound (ECZ+US), and two-stage electrocoagulation with zeolite and ultrasound (US+Z - EC), carried out with three different electrode materials. The results show that the simultaneous assistance of ultrasound in the ECZ leads to a lower increase in pH, while the temperature increase is higher. Regarding the COD, the assistance of ultrasound is only useful for Zn electrodes in the two-stage US+Z - EC, while the reduction in voltage consumption occurs for Fe and Al electrodes. Ultrasonic assistance caused more damage to the anodes, but anode consumption was reduced for Al and Zn electrodes. The total amount of zeolite that can be recovered is between 55–97%, and recovery is higher in systems with higher turbidity reduction. Good settling ability is only achieved with Al and Fe electrodes in simultaneous performance. Taguchi’s orthogonal L9 array design was applied to analyze the effects of electrode material, process type, mixing speed, and time duration on COD decrease, settling velocity, electrode, and voltage consumption. The results show that the use of ultrasound does not contribute to the desired result and generally only has a favorable effect on voltage and electrode consumption, while it has no positive effect on settling ability or COD decrease. Furthermore, although longer times and higher mixing speeds negatively impact cost due to voltage and electrode consumption, it is advisable not to choose the shortest duration and lowest speed to obtain adequate wastewater treatment quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Treatment and Remediation of Organic and Inorganic Pollutants)
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9 pages, 1741 KiB  
Article
Enhancement of Catalytic Efficiency of Enzymatic Redox Reactions by Composing Horseradish Peroxidase-Modified Electrode with Ionic Liquids
by Yasuko Noritomi, Takashi Kuboki and Hidetaka Noritomi
Liquids 2024, 4(2), 393-401; https://doi.org/10.3390/liquids4020020 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
We have kinetically estimated the enzymatic redox reaction at the horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-modified electrode combined with ionic liquids by adding N-(2-methoxythethyl)-N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl)imide (MEMPTFSI) to HRP/carbon paste (CP)/Ketjenblack EC600JC (EC). The fluctuation of the steady-state reduction current of HRP at [...] Read more.
We have kinetically estimated the enzymatic redox reaction at the horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-modified electrode combined with ionic liquids by adding N-(2-methoxythethyl)-N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl)imide (MEMPTFSI) to HRP/carbon paste (CP)/Ketjenblack EC600JC (EC). The fluctuation of the steady-state reduction current of HRP at the HRP/CP-modified electrode progressively increased as the applied potential was lowered. The enzymatic redox reaction with hydrogen peroxide as a substrate at the HRP/CP/EC/MEMPTFSI-modified electrode and the HRP/CP-modified electrode could be correlated by the Michaelis–Menten equation. The Michaelis constant of the enzymatic redox reaction at the HRP/CP/EC/MEMPTFSI-modified electrode was the same as that at the HRP/CP-modified electrode. On the other hand, the turnover number of the enzymatic redox reaction at the HRP/CP/EC/MEMPTFSI-modified electrode was six times larger than that at the HRP/CP-modified electrode. Consequently, the specificity constant of the enzymatic redox reaction at the HRP/CP/EC/MEMPTFSI-modified electrode was much higher than that at the HRP/CP-modified electrode. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Solutions and Liquid Mixtures Research)
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18 pages, 64491 KiB  
Article
A 5K Efficient Low-Light Enhancement Model by Estimating Increment between Dark Image and Transmission Map Based on Local Maximum Color Value Prior
by Qikang Deng, Dongwon Choo, Hyochul Ji and Dohoon Lee
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1814; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101814 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
Low-light enhancement (LLE) has seen significant advancements over decades, leading to substantial improvements in image quality that even surpass ground truth. However, these advancements have come with a downside as the models grew in size and complexity, losing their lightweight and real-time capabilities [...] Read more.
Low-light enhancement (LLE) has seen significant advancements over decades, leading to substantial improvements in image quality that even surpass ground truth. However, these advancements have come with a downside as the models grew in size and complexity, losing their lightweight and real-time capabilities crucial for applications like surveillance, autonomous driving, smartphones, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). To address this challenge, we propose an exceptionally lightweight model with just around 5K parameters, which is capable of delivering high-quality LLE results. Our method focuses on estimating the incremental changes from dark images to transmission maps based on the low maximum color value prior, and we introduce a novel three-channel transmission map to capture more details and information compared to the traditional one-channel transmission map. This innovative design allows for more effective matching of incremental estimation results, enabling distinct transmission adjustments to be applied to the R, G, and B channels of the image. This streamlined approach ensures that our model remains lightweight, making it suitable for deployment on low-performance devices without compromising real-time performance. Our experiments confirm the effectiveness of our model, achieving high-quality LLE comparable to the IAT (local) model. Impressively, our model achieves this level of performance while utilizing only 0.512 GFLOPs and 4.7K parameters, representing just 39.1% of the GFLOPs and 23.5% of the parameters used by the IAT (local) model. Full article
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22 pages, 1558 KiB  
Article
Priming of Possessive Constructions in German: A Matter of Preference Effects?
by Sarah Schimke and Sandra Pappert
Languages 2024, 9(5), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages9050170 (registering DOI) - 08 May 2024
Abstract
We investigated structural priming in adult native speakers, focusing on possessive constructions in German, where the two alternative structures involved differ in frequency. According to error-based learning approaches to priming, the less frequent structure should lead to a larger prediction error and larger [...] Read more.
We investigated structural priming in adult native speakers, focusing on possessive constructions in German, where the two alternative structures involved differ in frequency. According to error-based learning approaches to priming, the less frequent structure should lead to a larger prediction error and larger priming effects than the more frequent structure. In a comparison of preferences during a pretest and preferences during priming, we did not find evidence of such an inverse preference effect. Moreover, during priming, we observed increasing production rates of the preferred structure, hence, a cumulative priming effect. In line with hybrid models of priming, we propose that two mechanisms, namely, a mechanism learning from input as well as a mechanism accumulating activation during comprehension and production, are involved in the temporal development of priming effects. Moreover, we suggest that the interaction of the two mechanisms may depend on prior experience with the alternative structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Syntactic Adaptation)
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21 pages, 874 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Neural Control for a Class of Random Fractional-Order Multi-Agent Systems with Markov Jump Parameters and Full State Constraints
by Yuhang Yao, Jiaxin Yuan, Tao Chen, Chen Zhang and Hui Yang
Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(5), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8050278 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Based on an adaptive neural control scheme, this paper investigates the consensus problem of random Markov jump multi-agent systems with full state constraints. Each agent is described by the fractional-order random nonlinear uncertain system driven by random differential equations, where the random noise [...] Read more.
Based on an adaptive neural control scheme, this paper investigates the consensus problem of random Markov jump multi-agent systems with full state constraints. Each agent is described by the fractional-order random nonlinear uncertain system driven by random differential equations, where the random noise is the second-order stationary stochastic process. First, in order to deal with the unknown functions with Markov jump parameters, a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) structure is introduced to achieve approximation. Second, for the purpose of keeping the agents’ states from violating the constraint boundary, the tan-type barrier Lyapunov function is employed. By using the stochastic stability theory and adopting the backstepping technique, a novel adaptive neural control design method is presented. Furthermore, to cope with the differential explosion problem in the design course, the extended state observer (ESO) is developed instead of neural network (NN) approximation or command filtering techniques. Finally, the exponentially noise-to-state stability in the mean square is analyzed rigorously by the Lyapunov method, which guarantees the consensus of the considered multi-agent systems and all the agents’ outputs are bounded in probability. Two simulation examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the suggested control strategy. Full article
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22 pages, 505 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Neoplasia, Treatments, and Survival in Lizard Species
by Frank Willig, Fred J. Torpy, Scott H. Harrison, Elizabeth G. Duke, Brigid Troan, Amy M. Boddy, Lisa M. Abegglen and Tara M. Harrison
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1395; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101395 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Neoplasia has been reported in lizards, but more research is needed to accurately document the prevalence and prognosis of the various known neoplasms that affect lizards. This study reviewed medical records from an online database, the Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance (ESCRA), and [...] Read more.
Neoplasia has been reported in lizards, but more research is needed to accurately document the prevalence and prognosis of the various known neoplasms that affect lizards. This study reviewed medical records from an online database, the Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance (ESCRA), and reviewed published literature to determine the prevalence of neoplasia, malignancy, metastasis, treatment strategies, and outcomes by species and sex. Records from 55 individual lizards, 20 different species, and 37 different tumors were identified. In the literature, 219 lizards, 59 species, and 86 unique tumors were identified from 72 published case reports. Potential signalment factors such as age, sex, and species were evaluated to see if they affected case outcome. Additional factors including neoplasia type, presence of metastasis, and types of pursued treatments were also evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed to determine whether a factor was significantly associated with animal death due to the identified neoplasia or with animal survival or death due to other causes (non-neoplastic outcomes). Komodo dragons and savannah monitors were more likely to die from neoplasia compared to other lizard species. Cases where the status of metastasis was unknown were significantly associated with death due to neoplasia. Having an unknown status of male versus female was significantly associated with non-neoplastic outcomes of death. Leukemia and islet cell carcinoma were significantly associated with death due to neoplastic causes. Chondrosarcoma, myxosarcoma, osteosarcoma, and squamous cell carcinoma were significantly associated with non-neoplastic outcomes of death. Surgery alone and radiation therapy alone each were significantly associated with non-neoplastic outcomes of death, while lizards not receiving treatment were significantly associated with death due to neoplasia. Benign neoplasia was significantly associated with non-neoplastic outcomes of death. These results will aid in the improved diagnosis and management of neoplasia in lizard species, as well as expanding our understanding of prognostic indicators of neoplasia in lizards. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Herpetological Medicine and Surgery)
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15 pages, 3691 KiB  
Article
Data-Driven Prediction Model for Analysis of Sensor Data
by Ognyan Yotov and Adelina Aleksieva-Petrova
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1799; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101799 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
In view of Industry 4.0, data generation and analysis are challenges. For example, machine health monitoring and remaining useful life prediction use sensor signals, which are difficult to analyze using traditional methods and mathematical techniques. Machine and deep learning algorithms have been used [...] Read more.
In view of Industry 4.0, data generation and analysis are challenges. For example, machine health monitoring and remaining useful life prediction use sensor signals, which are difficult to analyze using traditional methods and mathematical techniques. Machine and deep learning algorithms have been used extensively in Industry 4.0 to process sensor signals and improve the accuracy of predictions. Therefore, this paper proposes and validates the data-driven prediction model to analyze sensor data, including in the data transformation phase Principal Component Analysis tested by Fourier Transformation and Wavelet Transformation, and the modeling phase based on machine and deep learning algorithms. The machine learning algorithms used for tests in this research are Random Forest Regression (RFR), Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), and Decision Tree Regression (DTR). For the deep learning comparison, the algorithms are Deep Learning Regression and Convolutional network with LeNet-5 Architecture. The experimental results indicate that the models show promising results in predicting wear values and open the problem to further research, reaching peak values of 92.3% accuracy for the first dataset and 62.4% accuracy for the second dataset. Full article
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25 pages, 10696 KiB  
Article
Day-to-Night Street View Image Generation for 24-Hour Urban Scene Auditing Using Generative AI
by Zhiyi Liu, Tingting Li, Tianyi Ren, Da Chen, Wenjing Li and Waishan Qiu
J. Imaging 2024, 10(5), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/jimaging10050112 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
A smarter city should be a safer city. Nighttime safety in metropolitan areas has long been a global concern, particularly for large cities with diverse demographics and intricate urban forms, whose citizens are often threatened by higher street-level crime rates. However, due to [...] Read more.
A smarter city should be a safer city. Nighttime safety in metropolitan areas has long been a global concern, particularly for large cities with diverse demographics and intricate urban forms, whose citizens are often threatened by higher street-level crime rates. However, due to the lack of night-time urban appearance data, prior studies based on street view imagery (SVI) rarely addressed the perceived night-time safety issue, which can generate important implications for crime prevention. This study hypothesizes that night-time SVI can be effectively generated from widely existing daytime SVIs using generative AI (GenAI). To test the hypothesis, this study first collects pairwise day-and-night SVIs across four cities diverged in urban landscapes to construct a comprehensive day-and-night SVI dataset. It then trains and validates a day-to-night (D2N) model with fine-tuned brightness adjustment, effectively transforming daytime SVIs to nighttime ones for distinct urban forms tailored for urban scene perception studies. Our findings indicate that: (1) the performance of D2N transformation varies significantly by urban-scape variations related to urban density; (2) the proportion of building and sky views are important determinants of transformation accuracy; (3) within prevailed models, CycleGAN maintains the consistency of D2N scene conversion, but requires abundant data. Pix2Pix achieves considerable accuracy when pairwise day–and–night-night SVIs are available and are sensitive to data quality. StableDiffusion yields high-quality images with expensive training costs. Therefore, CycleGAN is most effective in balancing the accuracy, data requirement, and cost. This study contributes to urban scene studies by constructing a first-of-its-kind D2N dataset consisting of pairwise day-and-night SVIs across various urban forms. The D2N generator will provide a cornerstone for future urban studies that heavily utilize SVIs to audit urban environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Visual Localization—Volume II)
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16 pages, 1661 KiB  
Article
Utilization of Mental Health Provision, Epistemic Stance and Comorbid Psychopathology of Individuals with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders (CPTSD)—Results from a Representative German Observational Study
by David Riedl, Hanna Kampling, Tobias Nolte, Christina Kirchhoff, Johannes Kruse, Cedric Sachser, Jörg M. Fegert, Harald Gündel, Elmar Brähler, Vincent Grote, Michael J. Fischer and Astrid Lampe
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 2735; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13102735 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a severely debilitating recently added symptom cluster in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). So far, only limited information on mental health treatment-uptake and -satisfaction of individuals with CPTSD is available. The aim of this [...] Read more.
Background: Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a severely debilitating recently added symptom cluster in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). So far, only limited information on mental health treatment-uptake and -satisfaction of individuals with CPTSD is available. The aim of this study is to investigate these aspects in a representative sample of the German general population. Methods: Participants completed the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) to identify participants with CPTSD, as well as questionnaires on mental health treatment uptake and satisfaction, adverse childhood experiences, anxiety, depression, working ability, personality functioning, and epistemic trust. Results: Of the included n = 1918 participants, n = 29 (1.5%) fulfilled the criteria for CPTSD. Participants with CPTSD had received mental health treatment significantly more often than participants with PTSD or depression (65.5% vs. 58.8% vs. 31.6%; p = 0.031) but reported significantly less symptom improvement (52.9% vs. 78.0% vs. 80.0%; p = 0.008). Lower levels of epistemic trust were associated with higher CPTSD symptoms (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our study shows that while the vast majority of individuals with CPTSD had received mental health treatment, subjective symptom improvement rates are not satisfactory. CPTSD was associated with a broad number of comorbidities and impairments in functioning. Lower levels of epistemic trust may partially explain worse treatment outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mental Health)
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Graphical abstract

19 pages, 3963 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Orally Administered Multi-Strain Probiotic Formulation (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) on the Phagocytic Activity and Oxidative Metabolism of Peripheral Blood Granulocytes and Monocytes in Lambs
by Roman Wójcik, Joanna Małaczewska, Dawid Tobolski, Jan Miciński, Edyta Kaczorek-Łukowska and Grzegorz Zwierzchowski
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5068; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105068 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Probiotic feed additives have attracted considerable research interest in recent years because the effectiveness of probiotics can differ across microbial strains and the supplemented macroorganisms. The present study was conducted on 16 lambs divided equally into two groups (C—control and E—experimental). The examined [...] Read more.
Probiotic feed additives have attracted considerable research interest in recent years because the effectiveness of probiotics can differ across microbial strains and the supplemented macroorganisms. The present study was conducted on 16 lambs divided equally into two groups (C—control and E—experimental). The examined lambs were aged 11 days at the beginning of the experiment and 40 days at the end of the experiment. The diet of group E lambs was supplemented with a multi-strain probiotic formulation (Lactobacillus plantarum AMT14, Lactobacillus plantarum AMT4, Lactobacillus rhamnosus AMT15, and Bifidobacterium animalis AMT30), whereas group C lambs did not receive the probiotic additive. At the beginning of the experiment (day 0) and on experimental days 15 and 30, blood was sampled from the jugular vein to determine and compare: phagocytic activity (Phagotest) and oxidative metabolism (Phagoburst) of peripheral blood granulocytes and monocytes by flow cytometry. An analysis of the phagocytic activity of granulocytes and monocytes revealed significantly higher levels of phagocytic activity (expressed as the percentage of phagocytic cells and mean fluorescence intensity) in lambs that were administered the multi-strain probiotic formulation compared with lambs in the control group. The probiotic feed additive also exerted a positive effect on the oxidative metabolism of both granulocytes and monocytes (expressed as the percentage of oxidative metabolism and mean fluorescence intensity) after stimulation with Escherichia coli bacteria and with PMA (4-phorbol-12-β-myristate-13-acetate). These findings suggest that the tested probiotic formulation may have a positive effect on the immune status of lambs. Full article
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17 pages, 2376 KiB  
Article
Cytotoxic Effect of Amyloid-β1-42 Oligomers on Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Apparatus Arrangement in SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells
by José J. Jarero-Basulto, Yadira Gasca-Martínez, Martha C. Rivera-Cervantes, Deisy Gasca-Martínez, Nidia Jannette Carrillo-González, Carlos Beas-Zárate and Graciela Gudiño-Cabrera
NeuroSci 2024, 5(2), 141-157; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurosci5020010 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Amyloid-β oligomers are a cytotoxic structure that is key for the establishment of the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). These structures promote subcellular alterations that cause synaptic dysfunction, loss of cell communication, and even cell death, generating cognitive deficits. The aim of [...] Read more.
Amyloid-β oligomers are a cytotoxic structure that is key for the establishment of the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). These structures promote subcellular alterations that cause synaptic dysfunction, loss of cell communication, and even cell death, generating cognitive deficits. The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic effects of amyloid-β1-42 oligomers (AβOs) on the membranous organelles involved in protein processing: the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi apparatus (GA). The results obtained with 10 μM AβOs in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells showed that oligomeric structures are more toxic than monomers because they cause cell viability to decrease as exposure time increases. Survivor cells were analyzed to further understand the toxic effects of AβOs on intracellular organelles. Survivor cells showed morphological alterations associated with abnormal cytoskeleton modification 72–96 h after exposure to AβOs. Moreover, the ER and GA presented rearrangement throughout the cytoplasmic space, which could be attributed to a lack of constitutive protein processing or to previous abnormal cytoskeleton modification. Interestingly, the disorganization of both ER and GA organelles exposed to AβOs is likely an early pathological alteration that could be related to aberrant protein processing and accumulation in AD. Full article
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18 pages, 2212 KiB  
Article
Upregulation of mRNA Expression of ADGRD1/GPR133 and ADGRG7/GPR128 in SARS-CoV-2-Infected Lung Adenocarcinoma Calu-3 Cells
by Sandra Žáčková, Marcela Pávová, Jana Trylčová, Jitka Chalupová, Anastasiia Priss, Ondřej Lukšan and Jan Weber
Cells 2024, 13(10), 791; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13100791 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) play an important role in neurodevelopment, immune defence and cancer; however, their role throughout viral infections is mostly unexplored. We have been searching for specific aGPCRs involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection of mammalian cells. In the present study, we [...] Read more.
Adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) play an important role in neurodevelopment, immune defence and cancer; however, their role throughout viral infections is mostly unexplored. We have been searching for specific aGPCRs involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection of mammalian cells. In the present study, we infected human epithelial cell lines derived from lung adenocarcinoma (Calu-3) and colorectal carcinoma (Caco-2) with SARS-CoV-2 in order to analyse changes in the level of mRNA encoding individual aGPCRs at 6 and 12 h post infection. Based on significantly altered mRNA levels, we identified four aGPCR candidates—ADGRB3/BAI3, ADGRD1/GPR133, ADGRG7/GPR128 and ADGRV1/GPR98. Of these receptors, ADGRD1/GPR133 and ADGRG7/GPR128 showed the largest increase in mRNA levels in SARS-CoV-2-infected Calu-3 cells, whereas no increase was observed with heat-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 and virus-cleared conditioned media. Next, using specific siRNA, we downregulated the aGPCR candidates and analysed SARS-CoV-2 entry, replication and infectivity in both cell lines. We observed a significant decrease in the amount of SARS-CoV-2 newly released into the culture media by cells with downregulated ADGRD1/GPR133 and ADGRG7/GPR128. In addition, using a plaque assay, we observed a reduction in SARS-CoV-2 infectivity in Calu-3 cells. In summary, our data suggest that selected aGPCRs might play a role during SARS-CoV-2 infection of mammalian cells. Full article
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