The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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18 pages, 8587 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Diffusion Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Particulate Matter in Ship Exhaust Plume in Arctic Environment Based on CFD
by Yuanqing Zhu, Qiqi Wan, Qichen Hou, Yongming Feng, Jia Yu, Jie Shi and Chong Xia
Atmosphere 2024, 15(5), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15050580 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The gradual opening of the Arctic shipping route has made navigation possible. However, the harm caused by ship exhaust emissions is increasingly severe. Therefore, it is necessary to study the diffusion characteristics of ship exhaust plumes during Arctic navigation. The study focuses on [...] Read more.
The gradual opening of the Arctic shipping route has made navigation possible. However, the harm caused by ship exhaust emissions is increasingly severe. Therefore, it is necessary to study the diffusion characteristics of ship exhaust plumes during Arctic navigation. The study focuses on a merchant vessel as the subject of investigation, employing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation techniques to analyze the diffusion characteristics of particulate matter (PM) within ship exhaust plumes under Arctic environmental conditions. The diffusion law of ship exhaust plume PM is clarified, and the influence of three factors, synthetic wind speed, yaw angle and chimney angle, on the PM diffusion is analyzed. It was found that after the PM was discharged from the chimney, the majority of the PM dispersed directly backward along with the external flow field, while a minor fraction lingered at the stern of the ship for an extended period before eventually diffusing backward. Among them, 1235 particles were captured within a range of 200 m from the stern, with a capture rate of 0.6%. When the synthetic wind shows a yaw angle, the capture rate of PM in the interval increases rapidly with the increase of yaw angle, while other factors have less influence on the capture rate of PM. This study provides foundational guidance for predicting PM diffusion from ship exhaust plumes in Arctic environments, thereby enabling more effective strategies for managing such emissions. Full article
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18 pages, 1514 KiB  
Article
Quercetin and Rutin as Tools to Enhance Antioxidant Profiles and Post-Priming Seed Storability in Medicago truncatula
by Shraddha Shridhar Gaonkar, Federico Sincinelli, Alma Balestrazzi and Andrea Pagano
Agriculture 2024, 14(5), 738; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14050738 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Seed priming is routinely applied to improve germination rates and seedling establishment, but the decrease in longevity observed in primed seeds constitutes a major drawback that compromises long-term storability. The optimization of priming protocols able to preserve primed seeds from aging processes represents [...] Read more.
Seed priming is routinely applied to improve germination rates and seedling establishment, but the decrease in longevity observed in primed seeds constitutes a major drawback that compromises long-term storability. The optimization of priming protocols able to preserve primed seeds from aging processes represents a promising route to expand the scope of seed priming. The present work explores this possibility in the model legume Medicago truncatula by testing the effectiveness of quercetin- and rutin-supplemented seed priming at improving the response to subsequent artificial aging. In comparison with a non-supplemented hydropriming protocol, supplementation with quercetin or rutin was able to mitigate the effects of post-priming aging by increasing germination percentage and speed, improving seed viability and seedling phenotype, with consistent correlations with a decrease in the levels of reactive oxygen species and an increase in antioxidant potential. The results suggest that quercetin and rutin can reduce the effects of post-priming aging by improving the seed antioxidant profiles. The present work provides novel information to explore the physiological changes associated with seed priming and aging, with possible outcomes for the development of tailored vigorization protocols able to overcome the storability constrains associated with post-priming aging processes. Full article
12 pages, 1218 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Mechanical Properties and Microstructures of Mass-Manufactured Sand Concrete by Incorporating Granite Powder
by Jian Huang, Guangfeng Xu, Shujie Chen, Demei Yu, Tengfei Fu, Chao Feng and Yulin Wang
Materials 2024, 17(10), 2234; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17102234 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The production of manufactured sand and stone processing can cause dust pollution due to the generation of a significant amount of stone powder. This dust (mainly granite powder) was collected and incorporated as a cement replacement into mass-manufactured sand concrete in order to [...] Read more.
The production of manufactured sand and stone processing can cause dust pollution due to the generation of a significant amount of stone powder. This dust (mainly granite powder) was collected and incorporated as a cement replacement into mass-manufactured sand concrete in order to enhance the mechanical properties and microstructures. The heat of the hydration was measured by adding the granite powder into the cementitious material system. The mechanical properties, autogenous shrinkage, and pore structures of the concrete were tested. The results showed that the mechanical strength of the concrete increased first and then decreased with the increase in granite powder content. By replacing the 5% cement with the granite powder, the 28 d compressive and flexural strength increased by 17.6% and 20.9%, respectively. The autogenous shrinkage was mitigated by the incorporation of the 10% granite powder and decreased by 19.7%. The mechanism of the granite powder in the concrete was studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The porosity decreased significantly within the 10% granite powder. A microstructure analysis did not reveal a change in the type of hydration products but rather that the granite powder played a role in the microcrystalline nucleation during the hydration process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Cement-Based Composites for Civil Engineering (Volume II))
18 pages, 1142 KiB  
Article
An Electronically Reconfigurable Highly Selective Stop-Band Ultra-Wideband Antenna Applying Electromagnetic Bandgaps and Positive-Intrinsic-Negative Diodes
by Anees Abbas, Niamat Hussain, Md. Abu Sufian, Wahaj Abbas Awan, Jaemin Lee and Nam Kim
Micromachines 2024, 15(5), 638; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15050638 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In this article, an ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna featuring two reconfigurable quasi-perfect stop bands at WLAN (5.25–5.75 GHz) and lower 5G (3.4–3.8 GHz) utilizing electromagnetic bandgaps (EBGs) and positive-intrinsic-negative (P-I-N) diodes is proposed. A pair of EBG structures are applied to generate sharp notch [...] Read more.
In this article, an ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna featuring two reconfigurable quasi-perfect stop bands at WLAN (5.25–5.75 GHz) and lower 5G (3.4–3.8 GHz) utilizing electromagnetic bandgaps (EBGs) and positive-intrinsic-negative (P-I-N) diodes is proposed. A pair of EBG structures are applied to generate sharp notch bands in the targeted frequency spectrum. Each EBG creates a traditional notch, while two regular notches are combined to make a quasi-perfect, sharp, notch band. Four P-I-N diodes are engraved into the EBG structures to enable notch band reconfigurability. By switching the operational condition of the four diodes, the UWB antenna can dynamically adjust its notching characteristics to enhance its adaptability to various communication standards and applications. The antenna can be reconfigured as a UWB (3–11.6 GHz) without any notch band, a UWB with a single sharp notch (either at WLAN or 5G), or a UWB with two quasi-perfect notch bands. Moreover, the antenna’s notch bands can also be switched from a traditional notch to a quasi-perfect notch and vice versa. To confirm the validity of the simulated outcomes, the proposed reconfigurable UWB antenna is fabricated and measured. The experimental findings are aligned closely with simulation results, and the antenna offers notch band reconfigurability. The antenna shows a consistently favorable radiation pattern and gain. The dimension of the presented antenna is 20 × 27 × 1.52 mm3 (0.45 λc × 0.33 λc × 0.025 λc, where λc is the wavelength in free space). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave Passive Components, 2nd Edition)
16 pages, 1031 KiB  
Article
An Improved Suppression Method of AC Transient Overvoltage for Line Commuted Converter Based High Voltage Direct Current Considering AC-DC System Coupling
by Jinxin Ouyang, Yujie Chen, Xinyu Pan and Yanbo Diao
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1844; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101844 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Commutation failures in line commuted converter-based high voltage direct current (LCC-HVDC) transmission systems leads to an increase in the converter bus voltage of the rectifier station, thus resulting in AC transient overvoltage in the sending-end grid. The transient overvoltage could lead to the [...] Read more.
Commutation failures in line commuted converter-based high voltage direct current (LCC-HVDC) transmission systems leads to an increase in the converter bus voltage of the rectifier station, thus resulting in AC transient overvoltage in the sending-end grid. The transient overvoltage could lead to the disconnection of renewable energy generation and threaten the stable operation of the sending-end grid. However, the influences of the coupling between AC and DC systems caused by the interaction between the active and reactive power of the sending-end grid, the AC bus voltage of the rectifier station, and the DC current are ignored. The AC transient overvoltage cannot be accurately suppressed. Therefore, in this study, the transient voltage characteristics of the rectifier station under a commutation failure of the inverter station are analyzed. The influence of LCC-HVDC control on the AC bus voltage of a rectifier station through the active and reactive power of the rectifier station is analyzed. A dynamic model of the AC bus voltage of a rectifier station under an AC-DC system coupling is established. The calculation method of the command value of the DC current of the rectifier station is proposed by a predictive control model, and an improved suppression method for AC transient overvoltage is proposed. The case studies show that the accuracy and effectiveness of the suppression of AC transient overvoltage are improved by considering the coupling between AC and DC systems. Full article
14 pages, 3357 KiB  
Article
Music and Religion in the Spiritual World of the Hungarian Aristocracy: The Case of Count Anton Erdődy (1714–1769)
by Jana Kalinayová-Bartová and Eva Szórádová
Religions 2024, 15(5), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15050584 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This study deals with the forms and expressions of the Christian piety of the Hungarian aristocracy in the early modern period on the example of Anton Erdődy (1714–1769), a representative of one of the most influential and most ancient Hungarian–Croatian noble families. The [...] Read more.
This study deals with the forms and expressions of the Christian piety of the Hungarian aristocracy in the early modern period on the example of Anton Erdődy (1714–1769), a representative of one of the most influential and most ancient Hungarian–Croatian noble families. The personal piety of this socially high-ranking aristocrat was shaped by familial, social, and spiritual traditions, which determined the nature of his artistic patronage. The unique Baroque organ preserved in the chapel of his no longer existing mansion in Trenčianske Bohuslavice, Slovakia (former Bohuslavice, Upper Hungary) is a magnificent manifestation of this patronage. The reconstruction of Anton Erdődy’s idea of the spiritual world and of his piety enables us to formulate a hypothesis that the atypical architectural and structural design of this organ did not result only from the aesthetic requirements of its commissioner, but also had a theological foundation and religious essence in addition to its visual effect. This study is the result of extensive heuristic research and analysis of sources and extant artefacts using the methods of music historiography. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soundscapes of Religion)
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31 pages, 1326 KiB  
Review
Nanostructured Metal Oxide-Based Electrochemical Biosensors in Medical Diagnosis
by Gulsu Keles, Elif Sifa Ataman, Sueda Betul Taskin, İlker Polatoglu and Sevinc Kurbanoglu
Biosensors 2024, 14(5), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14050238 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Nanostructured metal oxides (NMOs) provide electrical properties such as high surface−to−volume ratio, reaction activity, and good adsorption strength. Furthermore, they serve as a conductive substrate for the immobilization of biomolecules, exhibiting notable biological activity. Capitalizing on these characteristics, they find utility in the [...] Read more.
Nanostructured metal oxides (NMOs) provide electrical properties such as high surface−to−volume ratio, reaction activity, and good adsorption strength. Furthermore, they serve as a conductive substrate for the immobilization of biomolecules, exhibiting notable biological activity. Capitalizing on these characteristics, they find utility in the development of various electrochemical biosensing devices, elevating the sensitivity and selectivity of such diagnostic platforms. In this review, different types of NMOs, including zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO2), iron (II, III) oxide (Fe3O4), nickel oxide (NiO), and copper oxide (CuO); their synthesis methods; and how they can be integrated into biosensors used for medical diagnosis are examined. It also includes a detailed table for the last 10 years covering the morphologies, analysis techniques, analytes, and analytical performances of electrochemical biosensors developed for medical diagnosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Enzyme-Based Biosensors)
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14 pages, 517 KiB  
Review
Long Non-Coding RNAs in Sjögren’s Disease
by Ondřej Pastva and Kerstin Klein
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5162; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105162 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Sjögren’s disease (SjD) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease characterized by severe dryness of mucosal surfaces, particularly the mouth and eyes; fatigue; and chronic pain. Chronic inflammation of the salivary and lacrimal glands, auto-antibody formation, and extra-glandular manifestations occur in subsets of patients with [...] Read more.
Sjögren’s disease (SjD) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease characterized by severe dryness of mucosal surfaces, particularly the mouth and eyes; fatigue; and chronic pain. Chronic inflammation of the salivary and lacrimal glands, auto-antibody formation, and extra-glandular manifestations occur in subsets of patients with SjD. An aberrant expression of long, non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been described in many autoimmune diseases, including SjD. Here, we review the current literature on lncRNAs in SjD and their role in regulating X chromosome inactivation, immune modulatory functions, and their potential as biomarkers. Full article
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17 pages, 1963 KiB  
Article
Hazard Assessment of Debris Flow: A Case Study of the Huiyazi Debris Flow
by Yuntao Guo, Zhen Feng, Lichao Wang, Yifan Tian and Liang Chen
Water 2024, 16(10), 1349; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101349 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The Bailong River Basin is situated at the northeastern edge of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the western transition zone of the Loess Plateau, characterized by steep terrain and heavy rainfall. This area experiences frequent occurrences of debris flows, posing serious threats to towns [...] Read more.
The Bailong River Basin is situated at the northeastern edge of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the western transition zone of the Loess Plateau, characterized by steep terrain and heavy rainfall. This area experiences frequent occurrences of debris flows, posing serious threats to towns and construction projects. Focusing on the Huaiyazigou debris flow in the Bailong River Basin, numerical simulations of debris flow processes were conducted using Digital Surface Model (DSM) data with a resolution of 5 m × 5 m for various recurrence periods. The simulation results indicate that the debris flow develops rapidly along the gully after formation, decelerating and beginning to deposit upon reaching the cement plant area near the mouth of the gully, eventually merging into the Bailong River. The primary destructive modes of debris flow disasters encompass impact and burial. When encountering buildings, their flow characteristics manifest as deposition and diversion. A debris flow hazard classification model, based on intensity and recurrence periods, was established according to Swiss and Austrian standards, dividing the hazard into low, medium, and high levels. This method generated a debris flow hazard zone map, offering guidance for risk prevention and monitoring. This research demonstrates that using high-precision Digital Surface Models (DSM) can accurately represent the digital information of debris flow gully terrains and buildings. During the simulation process, it realistically reflects the characteristics of the debris flow movement, allowing for the more precise delineation of hazard zones. Full article
17 pages, 264 KiB  
Article
Is the Productivity of Faculty Members Sustainable? The Perspective of Faculty Members
by Miray Doğan and Hasan Arslan
Trends High. Educ. 2024, 3(2), 356-372; https://doi.org/10.3390/higheredu3020022 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In the global economic landscape, a nation’s ability to secure a prominent position is intricately linked to its capacity for knowledge augmentation and technological innovation. This correlation underscores the pivotal role of universities and academicians, whose importance directly reflects a country’s level of [...] Read more.
In the global economic landscape, a nation’s ability to secure a prominent position is intricately linked to its capacity for knowledge augmentation and technological innovation. This correlation underscores the pivotal role of universities and academicians, whose importance directly reflects a country’s level of development. The effectual execution of educational, research, and innovative pursuits within university settings necessitates the presence of qualified, productive, and dedicated academicians. As key contributors to academic, social, and humanitarian spheres, academicians bear responsibilities spanning research, teaching, societal enlightenment, and problem solving within higher education. The scholarly productivity of researchers is commonly gauged through metrics involving scientific publications and academic engagements. Notably, in many countries, advancements and appointments within academic institutions are contingent on the demonstrated productivity of academicians. Aligning with this global trend, Turkey accordingly structures its promotion and appointment procedures within academia. This study aims to ascertain faculty members’ perspectives regarding academic productivity after their associate professors’ and professors’ appointments in Turkey. Furthermore, we endeavor to identify the underlying factors contributing to this decline and increase academic productivity. Our findings emphasize the intricate interplay of various factors influencing academic productivity and sustainability. These include the significance of institutional support, economic stability, intrinsic motivation, and challenges such as bureaucratic processes and gender-related issues, which collectively shape the academic landscape and faculty members’ ability to produce impactful research over time. The research study group comprised 20 faculty members working at a public University in Turkey in the 2022–2023 academic year. This study was prepared using a qualitative research model. This study used the interview technique, one of the data collection techniques used in process-based evaluation applications. Furthermore, the obtained data were analyzed using the content analysis technique used in qualitative research methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Faculty at Midcareer)
16 pages, 2158 KiB  
Article
A Portable Readout System for Biomarker Detection with Aptamer-Modified CMOS ISFET Array
by Dmitriy Ryazantsev, Mark Shustinskiy, Andrey Sheshil, Alexey Titov, Vitaliy Grudtsov, Valerii Vechorko, Irakli Kitiashvili, Kirill Puchnin, Alexander Kuznetsov and Natalia Komarova
Sensors 2024, 24(10), 3008; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24103008 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Biosensors based on ion-sensitive field effect transistors (ISFETs) combined with aptamers offer a promising and convenient solution for point-of-care testing applications due to the ability for fast and label-free detection of a wide range of biomarkers. Mobile and easy-to-use readout devices for the [...] Read more.
Biosensors based on ion-sensitive field effect transistors (ISFETs) combined with aptamers offer a promising and convenient solution for point-of-care testing applications due to the ability for fast and label-free detection of a wide range of biomarkers. Mobile and easy-to-use readout devices for the ISFET aptasensors would contribute to further development of the field. In this paper, the development of a portable PC-controlled device for detecting aptamer-target interactions using ISFETs is described. The device assembly allows selective modification of individual ISFETs with different oligonucleotides. Ta2O5-gated ISFET structures were optimized to minimize trapped charge and capacitive attenuation. Integrated CMOS readout circuits with linear transfer function were used to minimize the distortion of the original ISFET signal. An external analog signal digitizer with constant voltage and superimposed high-frequency sine wave reference voltage capabilities was designed to increase sensitivity when reading ISFET signals. The device performance was demonstrated with the aptamer-driven detection of troponin I in both reference voltage setting modes. The sine wave reference voltage measurement method reduced the level of drift over time and enabled a lowering of the minimum detectable analyte concentration. In this mode (constant voltage 2.4 V and 10 kHz 0.1Vp-p), the device allowed the detection of troponin I with a limit of detection of 3.27 ng/mL. Discrimination of acute myocardial infarction was demonstrated with the developed device. The ISFET device provides a platform for the multiplexed detection of different biomarkers in point-of-care testing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro/Nano Biosensors and Devices)
17 pages, 1101 KiB  
Article
Third-Generation Anticancer Photodynamic Therapy Systems Based on Star-like Anionic Polyacrylamide Polymer, Gold Nanoparticles, and Temoporfin Photosensitizer
by Oleg Yeshchenko, Pavlo Khort, Oles Fedotov, Vasyl Chumachenko, Pavlo Virych, Hunter S. Warren, Brian W. Booth, Valery Bliznyuk and Nataliya Kutsevol
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2224; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102224 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive anticancer treatment that uses special photosensitizer molecules (PS) to generate singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a tissue under excitation with red or infrared light. Though the method has been known for decades, it [...] Read more.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive anticancer treatment that uses special photosensitizer molecules (PS) to generate singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a tissue under excitation with red or infrared light. Though the method has been known for decades, it has become more popular recently with the development of new efficient organic dyes and LED light sources. Here we introduce a ternary nanocomposite: water-soluble star-like polymer/gold nanoparticles (AuNP)/temoporfin PS, which can be considered as a third-generation PDT system. AuNPs were synthesized in situ inside the polymer molecules, and the latter were then loaded with PS molecules in an aqueous solution. The applied method of synthesis allows precise control of the size and architecture of polymer nanoparticles as well as the concentration of the components. Dynamic light scattering confirmed the formation of isolated particles (120 nm diameter) with AuNPs and PS molecules incorporated inside the polymer shell. Absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopies revealed optimal concentrations of the components that can simultaneously reduce the side effects of dark toxicity and enhance singlet oxygen generation to increase cancer cell mortality. Here, we report on the optical properties of the system and detailed mechanisms of the observed enhancement of the phototherapeutic effect. Combinations of organic dyes with gold nanoparticles allow significant enhancement of the effect of ROS generation due to surface plasmonic resonance in the latter, while the application of a biocompatible star-like polymer vehicle with a dextran core and anionic polyacrylamide arms allows better local integration of the components and targeted delivery of the PS molecules to cancer cells. In this study, we demonstrate, as proof of concept, a successful application of the developed PDT system for in vitro treatment of triple-negative breast cancer cells under irradiation with a low-power LED lamp (660 nm). We consider the developed nanocomposite to be a promising PDT system for application to other types of cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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18 pages, 617 KiB  
Review
The Application of Sheep Wool in the Building Industry and in the Removal of Pollutants from the Environment
by Mária Porubská, Karin Koóšová and Jana Braniša
Processes 2024, 12(5), 963; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050963 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The presented review is focused on a brief overview of the scientific works on the use of sheep wool outside the textile industry that were published in recent years. The focus of the information is the on construction industry, which is a significant [...] Read more.
The presented review is focused on a brief overview of the scientific works on the use of sheep wool outside the textile industry that were published in recent years. The focus of the information is the on construction industry, which is a significant consumer of heat- and sound-insulating materials. With its properties, sheep wool can compete very well with insulators made from non-renewable resources. Other building elements can also be combined with wool, as long as they are used in appropriate conditions. Due to its chemical and physical structure, wool is extremely suitable for the adsorption removal of pollutants from the living and working environment, in native or modified form. Wool can also be used in recycling processes. However, each application must be preceded by an investigation of the optimal conditions of the given process, which offers researchers inspiration and interesting topics for research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Processes)
54 pages, 6108 KiB  
Review
Oceanographic Research in the Thermaikos Gulf: A Review over Five Decades
by Yannis Androulidakis, Christos Makris, Katerina Kombiadou, Yannis Krestenitis, Natassa Stefanidou, Chryssanthi Antoniadou, Evangelia Krasakopoulou, Maria-Ignatia Kalatzi, Vasilis Baltikas, Maria Moustaka-Gouni and Chariton Charles Chintiroglou
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 795; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050795 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The Thermaikos Gulf (TG) is a semi-enclosed, river-influenced, marine system situated in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, sustaining both urban coastal regions and ecologically preserved natural areas. Facing a plethora of environmental and anthropogenic pressures, the TG serves as a critical nexus where human [...] Read more.
The Thermaikos Gulf (TG) is a semi-enclosed, river-influenced, marine system situated in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, sustaining both urban coastal regions and ecologically preserved natural areas. Facing a plethora of environmental and anthropogenic pressures, the TG serves as a critical nexus where human activities intersect with marine ecosystems. The quality and health of the TG’s marine environment are tightly linked to the socioeconomic activities of the coastal communities comprising approximately 1.5 million inhabitants. The main features of the TG’s environmental dynamics and ecological status have been scrutinized by dedicated research endeavors during the last 50 years. This review synthesizes the seminal findings of these investigations, offering an evaluation of their contribution to research, their present collective impact, and their trajectory toward the future. A severe deterioration of the TG’s environmental quality was detected in the 1970s and 1980s when the treatment of urban wastewater was completely absent. A steady trend of recovery was observed after the 1990s; however, so far, the goal of a “good environmental state” mandated by national legislation and European directives has not been achieved. A clear reduction in research was detected after 2010, associated with the recession of the Greek economy, following the “golden period” for research in the TG from the mid-1990s until the late 2000s. The most important research gaps and uncertainties are discussed, while specific targeted recommendations for the improvement of monitoring and understanding of the physical, biochemical, and ecological state of the gulf are provided: (i) increase in permanent observational stations (temporally and spatially); (ii) inclusion of all major environmental parameters; (iii) monitoring of the quantity and quality of all land-originated freshwater discharges; (iv) monitoring and management of important aspects of the marine environment that have received minimal attention in the past (e.g., coastal erosion, plastic pollution); (v) development of accurate prediction tools (e.g., numerical techniques) to support first-level responders and efficient management; (vi) establishment of a supervising public entity that would support the holistic overview and management of the entire TG. These suggestions are directed at overcoming the existing uncertainties in the knowledge of the TG, safeguarding its ecological integrity and its role as a crucial link to marine biodiversity and sustainability in the Mediterranean basin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrodynamic Circulation Modelling in the Marine Environment)
19 pages, 840 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of The Effect of Loratadine versus Diosmin/Hesperidin Combination on Vinca Alkaloids-Induced Neuropathy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
by Noha Kamal, Mahmoud S. Abdallah, Essam Abdel Wahed, Nagwa A. Sabri and Sarah Farid Fahmy
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050609 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Neurological injury is a crucial problem that interferes with the therapeutic use of vinca alkaloids as well as the quality of patient life. This study was conducted to assess the impact of using loratadine or diosmin/hesperidin on neuropathy induced by vinca alkaloids. Patients [...] Read more.
Neurological injury is a crucial problem that interferes with the therapeutic use of vinca alkaloids as well as the quality of patient life. This study was conducted to assess the impact of using loratadine or diosmin/hesperidin on neuropathy induced by vinca alkaloids. Patients were randomized into one of three groups as follows: group 1 was the control group, group 2 received 450 mg diosmin and 50 mg hesperidin combination orally twice daily, and group 3 received loratadine 10 mg orally once daily. Subjective scores (numeric pain rating scale, douleur neuropathique 4, and functional assessment of cancer therapy/gynecologic oncology group–neurotoxicity (FACT/GOG-Ntx) scores), neuroinflammation biomarkers, adverse drug effects, quality of life, and response to chemotherapy were compared among the three groups. Both diosmin/hesperidin and loratadine improved the results of the neurotoxicity subscale in the FACT/GOG-Ntx score (p < 0.001, p < 0.01 respectively) and ameliorated the upsurge in neuroinflammation serum biomarkers. They also reduced the incidence and timing of paresthesia (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) and dysuria occurrence (p = 0.042). Both loratadine and diosmin/hesperidin attenuated the intensity of acute neuropathy triggered by vinca alkaloids. Furthermore, they did not increase the frequency of adverse effects or interfere with the treatment response. Full article
17 pages, 1021 KiB  
Article
Analytical Solutions of the 3-DOF Gyroscope Model
by Izabela Krzysztofik and Slawomir Blasiak
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1843; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101843 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The motion of a rigid body (a gyroscope) is one of the key issues in classical mechanics. It remains a significant challenge, as evidenced by its extensive practical implementations in various scientific disciplines and engineering operations. It is important to obtain analytical solutions, [...] Read more.
The motion of a rigid body (a gyroscope) is one of the key issues in classical mechanics. It remains a significant challenge, as evidenced by its extensive practical implementations in various scientific disciplines and engineering operations. It is important to obtain analytical solutions, as they provide solutions that depend directly on the system’s parameters, which can be definitively interpreted. The coupling of numerical and analytical solutions allows for a more precise representation of the real phenomenon. The main objective of the article was to formulate analytical solutions for the motion of a Cardan suspension gyroscope subjected to controlling torque moments. Analytical solutions for the proposed mathematical model were developed using the Laplace transform and Green’s function. Subsequently, they were validated by numerical tests. The obtained analytical solutions are universally applicable, regardless of the type of controlling moments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Systems & Control Engineering)
21 pages, 572 KiB  
Article
Effect of Mineral Fertilization and Seed Inoculation with Microbial Preparation on Seed and Protein Yield of Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
by Liudmyla Yeremko, Volodymyr Hanhur and Mariola Staniak
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051004 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different NPK rates and N application methods and seed inoculation with a microbial preparation on selected elements of plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content in seeds and the [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different NPK rates and N application methods and seed inoculation with a microbial preparation on selected elements of plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content in seeds and the yield of protein. The research hypothesis suggested that seed inoculation and a split rate of N application with an optimal supply of plants with PK could improve the nutritional status and increase the efficiency of nutrient use in peas. The studies included two factors: the application of NPK at doses of N0P0K0 (control), N15P15K15 (pre-sowing), N15P30K30 + N15 (pre-sowing + N15 at BBCH 22–23), N30P30K30 (pre-sowing), N30P45K45 + N15 (pre-sowing + N15 at BBCH 22–23) and N45P45K45 (pre-sowing), and seed inoculation with the microbial preparation Rhizogumin. The results of the study showed significant effects of seed inoculation and mineral fertilization on pea plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content and protein yield. It was concluded that among the studied combinations, seed inoculation and the application of mineral fertilizers with fractional nitrogen fertilization with N30P45K45 + N15 were the most effective. This combination significantly increased seed yield, protein content and protein yield compared to the control treatment (by 26.2%, 11.1% and 43,5%, respectively). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
17 pages, 1732 KiB  
Review
Review and Assessment of Existing and Future Techniques for Traceability with Particular Focus on Applicability to ABS Plastics
by Ignacy Jakubowicz and Nazdaneh Yarahmadi
Polymers 2024, 16(10), 1343; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16101343 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
It is generally recognized that the use of physical and digital information-based solutions for tracking plastic materials along a value chain can favour the transition to a circular economy and help to overcome obstacles. In the near future, traceability and information exchange between [...] Read more.
It is generally recognized that the use of physical and digital information-based solutions for tracking plastic materials along a value chain can favour the transition to a circular economy and help to overcome obstacles. In the near future, traceability and information exchange between all actors in the value chain of the plastics industry will be crucial to establishing more effective recycling systems. Recycling plastics is a complex process that is particularly complicated in the case of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic because of its versatility and use in many applications. This literature study is part of a larger EU-funded project with the acronym ABSolEU (Paving the way for an ABS recycling revolution in the EU). One of its goals is to propose a suitable traceability system for ABS products through physical marking with a digital connection to a suitable data-management system to facilitate the circular use of ABS. The aim of this paper is therefore to review and assess the current and future techniques for traceability with a particular focus on their use for ABS plastics as a basis for this proposal. The scientific literature and initiatives are discussed within three technological areas, viz., labelling and traceability systems currently in use, digital data sharing systems and physical marking. The first section includes some examples of systems used commonly today. For data sharing, three digital technologies are discussed, viz., Digital Product Passports, blockchain solutions and certification systems, which identify a product through information that is attached to it and store, share and analyse data throughout the product’s life cycle. Finally, several different methods for physical marking are described and evaluated, including different labels on a product’s surface and the addition of a specific material to a polymer matrix that can be identified at any point in time with the use of a special light source or device. The conclusion from this study is that the most promising data management technology for the near future is blockchain technology, which could be shared by all ABS products. Regarding physical marking, producers must evaluate different options for individual products, using the most appropriate and economical technology for each specific product. It is also important to evaluate what information should be attached to a specific product to meet the needs of all actors in the value chain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Waste Recycling and Management II)
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19 pages, 2355 KiB  
Article
Electrical Machine Winding Performance Optimization by Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Algorithm
by François S. Martins, Bernardo P. Alvarenga and Geyverson T. Paula
Energies 2024, 17(10), 2286; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102286 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The present work aims to optimize the magnetomotive force and the end-winding leakage inductance from a discrete distribution of conductors in electrical machines through multi-objective particle swarm heuristics. From the development of an application capable of generating the conductor distribution for different machine [...] Read more.
The present work aims to optimize the magnetomotive force and the end-winding leakage inductance from a discrete distribution of conductors in electrical machines through multi-objective particle swarm heuristics. From the development of an application capable of generating the conductor distribution for different machine configurations (single or poly-phase, single or double layer, integral or fractional slots, full or shortened pitch, with the presence of empty slots, etc.) the curves of magnetomotive force and the end-winding leakage inductance associated with the winding are computed. Taking as an optimal winding the one that presents, simultaneously, less harmonic distortion of the magnetomotive force and less leakage inductance, optimization by multi-objective particle swarm was used to obtain the optimal electrical machine configuration and the results are presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Electrical Machine Design and Optimization Ⅱ)
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17 pages, 551 KiB  
Review
Advances in Therapeutics to Alleviate Cognitive Decline and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
by Jialin Li, Anita Haj Ebrahimi and Afia B. Ali
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5169; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105169 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Dementia exists as a ‘progressive clinical syndrome of deteriorating mental function significant enough to interfere with activities of daily living’, with the most prevalent type of dementia being Alzheimer’s disease (AD), accounting for about 80% of diagnosed cases. AD is associated with an [...] Read more.
Dementia exists as a ‘progressive clinical syndrome of deteriorating mental function significant enough to interfere with activities of daily living’, with the most prevalent type of dementia being Alzheimer’s disease (AD), accounting for about 80% of diagnosed cases. AD is associated with an increased risk of comorbidity with other clinical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) including, agitation, anxiety, and depression as well as increased mortality in late life. For example, up to 70% of patients diagnosed with AD are affected by anxiety. As aging is the major risk factor for AD, this represents a huge global burden in ageing populations. Over the last 10 years, significant efforts have been made to recognize the complexity of AD and understand the aetiology and pathophysiology of the disease as well as biomarkers for early detection. Yet, earlier treatment options, including acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and glutamate receptor regulators, have been limited as they work by targeting the symptoms, with only the more recent FDA-approved drugs being designed to target amyloid-β protein with the aim of slowing down the progression of the disease. However, these drugs may only help temporarily, cannot stop or reverse the disease, and do not act by reducing NPS associated with AD. The first-line treatment options for the management of NPS are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs/SNRIs) targeting the monoaminergic system; however, they are not rational drug choices for the management of anxiety disorders since the GABAergic system has a prominent role in their development. Considering the overall treatment failures and side effects of currently available medication, there is an unmet clinical need for rationally designed therapies for anxiety disorders associated with AD. In this review, we summarize the current status of the therapy of AD and aim to highlight novel angles for future drug therapy in our ongoing efforts to alleviate the cognitive deficits and NPS associated with this devastating disease. Full article
25 pages, 1645 KiB  
Article
Fixed-Time Adaptive Event-Triggered Guaranteed Performance Tracking Control of Nonholonomic Mobile Robots under Asymmetric State Constraints
by Kairui Chen, Yixiang Gu, Weicong Huang, Zhonglin Zhang, Zian Wang and Xiaofeng Wang
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1471; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101471 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
A fixed-time adaptive guaranteed performance tracking control is investigated for a category of nonholonomic mobile robots (NMRs) under asymmetric state constraints. For the sake of favorable transient and steady-state properties of the system, a prescribed performance function (PPF) is introduced and a transform [...] Read more.
A fixed-time adaptive guaranteed performance tracking control is investigated for a category of nonholonomic mobile robots (NMRs) under asymmetric state constraints. For the sake of favorable transient and steady-state properties of the system, a prescribed performance function (PPF) is introduced and a transform function is further constructed. Based on the backstepping technique, an asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function is formulated to ensure the tracking errors converge within a human-specified time. On the foundation of this, the occupation of communication channel is effectively reduced by assigning an event-triggered mechanism (ETM) with relative threshold to the process of controller design. By utilizing the proposed control strategy, the NMR is capable of implementing the enemy dislodging mission while the enemy can always be caught by the NMR and the collision would never be presented. Finally, two simulation experiments are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. Full article
21 pages, 2023 KiB  
Article
Vison Transformer-Based Automatic Crack Detection on Dam Surface
by Jian Zhou, Guochuan Zhao and Yonglong Li
Water 2024, 16(10), 1348; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101348 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Dam is an essential structure in hydraulic engineering, and its surface cracks pose significant threats to its integrity, impermeability, and durability. Automated crack detection methods based on computer vision offer substantial advantages over manual approaches with regard to efficiency, objectivity and precision. However, [...] Read more.
Dam is an essential structure in hydraulic engineering, and its surface cracks pose significant threats to its integrity, impermeability, and durability. Automated crack detection methods based on computer vision offer substantial advantages over manual approaches with regard to efficiency, objectivity and precision. However, current methods face challenges such as misidentification, discontinuity, and loss of details when analyzing real-world dam crack images. These images often exhibit characteristics such as low contrast, complex backgrounds, and diverse crack morphologies. To address the above challenges, this paper presents a pure Vision Transformer (ViT)-based dam crack segmentation network (DCST-net). The DCST-net utilizes an improved Swin Transformer (SwinT) block as the fundamental block for enhancing the long-range dependencies within a SegNet-like encoder–decoder structure. Additionally, we employ a weighted attention block to facilitate side fusion between the symmetric pair of encoder and decoder in each stage to sharpen the edge of crack. To demonstrate the superior performance of our proposed method, six semantic segmentation models have been trained and tested on both a self-built dam crack dataset and two publicly available datasets. Comparison results indicate that our proposed model outperforms the mainstream methods in terms of visualization and most evaluation metrics, highlighting its potential for practical application in dam safety inspection and maintenance. Full article
22 pages, 659 KiB  
Article
Empowering Pakistan’s Economy: The Role of Health and Education in Shaping Labor Force Participation and Economic Growth
by Muhammad Umair, Waqar Ahmad, Babar Hussain, Costinela Fortea, Monica Laura Zlati and Valentin Marian Antohi
Economies 2024, 12(5), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies12050113 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The labor force is a crucial factor in conducting economic activities, especially in labor-surplus countries like Pakistan. In this study, we explore the impact of labor force participation (LF) on economic growth (EG), with an emphasis on how this impact depends on the [...] Read more.
The labor force is a crucial factor in conducting economic activities, especially in labor-surplus countries like Pakistan. In this study, we explore the impact of labor force participation (LF) on economic growth (EG), with an emphasis on how this impact depends on the levels of health and education expenditures. We analyze time series data from Pakistan spanning from 1980 to 2022, using ARDL (Autoregressive Distributed Lag), ECM (Error Correction Model) and Granger causality techniques for empirical analysis. The ARDL results indicate that LF significantly boosts EG, both in the short and long run. Furthermore, the estimations reveal that better facilities for health and education strengthen the positive effects of LF on EG. This suggests a complementary relationship between health, education, and LF in driving EG. Moreover, our findings highlight the temporal significance of health and education: Health plays a more crucial role in the short run, while education’s impact is more substantial in the long run. Furthermore, the Granger causality results indicate that LF, health, and education significantly contribute to EG. It is advisable for the government to prioritize investments in the health and education sectors. This approach can empower individuals to actively and effectively participate in economic activities, eventually contributing to the overall economic output of the nation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation, Productivity and Economic Growth: New Insights)

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