The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
26 pages, 13695 KiB  
Article
Local Path Planning Method for Unmanned Ship Based on Encounter Situation Inference and COLREGS Constraints
by Gang Wang, Jingheng Wang, Xiaoyuan Wang, Quanzheng Wang, Longfei Chen, Junyan Han, Bin Wang and Kai Feng
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050720 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Local path planning, as an essential technology to ensure intelligent ships’ safe navigation, has attracted the attention of many scholars worldwide. In most existing studies, the impact of COLREGS has received limited consideration, and there is insufficient exploration of the method in complex [...] Read more.
Local path planning, as an essential technology to ensure intelligent ships’ safe navigation, has attracted the attention of many scholars worldwide. In most existing studies, the impact of COLREGS has received limited consideration, and there is insufficient exploration of the method in complex waters with multiple interfering ships and static obstacles. Therefore, in this paper, a generation method for a time–space overlapping equivalent static obstacle line for ships in multi-ship encounter scenarios where both dynamic and static obstacles coexist is proposed. By dynamically inferring ships’ encounter situations and considering the requirements of COLREGS, the influence of interfering ships and static obstacles on the navigation of the target ship at different times in the near future is represented as static obstacle lines. These lines are then incorporated into the scene that the target ship encountered at the path planning moment. Subsequently, the existing path planning methods were extensively utilized to obtain the local path. Compared with many common path planning methods in random scenarios, the effectiveness and reliability of the method proposed are verified. It has been demonstrated by experimental results that the proposed method can offer a theoretical basis and technical support for the autonomous navigation of unmanned ships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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20 pages, 819 KiB  
Article
Co-Delivery of an Innovative Organoselenium Compound and Paclitaxel by pH-Responsive PCL Nanoparticles to Synergistically Overcome Multidrug Resistance in Cancer
by Daniela Mathes, Letícia Bueno Macedo, Taís Baldissera Pieta, Bianca Costa Maia, Oscar Endrigo Dorneles Rodrigues, Julliano Guerin Leal, Marcelo Wendt, Clarice Madalena Bueno Rolim, Montserrat Mitjans and Daniele Rubert Nogueira-Librelotto
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(5), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16050590 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this study, we designed the association of the organoselenium compound 5′-Seleno-(phenyl)-3′-(ferulic-amido)-thymidine (AFAT-Se), a promising innovative nucleoside analogue, with the antitumor drug paclitaxel, in poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based nanoparticles (NPs). The nanoprecipitation method was used, adding the lysine-based surfactant, 77KS, as a pH-responsive adjuvant. The [...] Read more.
In this study, we designed the association of the organoselenium compound 5′-Seleno-(phenyl)-3′-(ferulic-amido)-thymidine (AFAT-Se), a promising innovative nucleoside analogue, with the antitumor drug paclitaxel, in poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based nanoparticles (NPs). The nanoprecipitation method was used, adding the lysine-based surfactant, 77KS, as a pH-responsive adjuvant. The physicochemical properties presented by the proposed NPs were consistent with expectations. The co-nanoencapsulation of the bioactive compounds maintained the antioxidant activity of the association and evidenced greater antiproliferative activity in the resistant/MDR tumor cell line NCI/ADR-RES, both in the monolayer/two-dimensional (2D) and in the spheroid/three-dimensional (3D) assays. Hemocompatibility studies indicated the safety of the nanoformulation, corroborating the ability to spare non-tumor 3T3 cells and human mononuclear cells of peripheral blood (PBMCs) from cytotoxic effects, indicating its selectivity for the cancerous cells. Furthermore, the synergistic antiproliferative effect was found for both the association of free compounds and the co-encapsulated formulation. These findings highlight the antitumor potential of combining these bioactives, and the proposed nanoformulation as a potentially safe and effective strategy to overcome multidrug resistance in cancer therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanomedicine and Nanotechnology)
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17 pages, 4902 KiB  
Article
Challenges of Including Wet Grasslands with Variable Groundwater Tables in Large-Area Crop Production Simulations
by Valeh Khaledi, Bahareh Kamali, Gunnar Lischeid, Ottfried Dietrich, Mariel F. Davies and Claas Nendel
Agriculture 2024, 14(5), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14050679 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Large-scale assessments of agricultural productivity necessitate integrated simulations of cropland and grassland ecosystems within their spatiotemporal context. However, simultaneous simulations face limitations due to assumptions of uniform species distribution. Grasslands, particularly those with shallow groundwater tables, are highly sensitive to water availability, undergoing [...] Read more.
Large-scale assessments of agricultural productivity necessitate integrated simulations of cropland and grassland ecosystems within their spatiotemporal context. However, simultaneous simulations face limitations due to assumptions of uniform species distribution. Grasslands, particularly those with shallow groundwater tables, are highly sensitive to water availability, undergoing rapid species composition changes. We hypothesised that predicting above-ground biomass (AGB) remains challenging due to these dynamic responses. Ten years of data from four lysimeters at a German wet grassland site, with varying water table treatments, was utilised to test this hypothesis. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive indirect effect of the water regime on AGB, with a one-year time lag (r = 0.97). The MONICA model initially exhibited fair agreement (d = 0.69) in simulating Leaf-Area-Index (LAI) but performed poorly in replicating AGB (d = 0.3). After removing the species composition change effect from the LAI and AGB datasets, the simulation notably improved, with the overall relative root mean square error (rRMSE) of AGB decreasing from 1.55 to 0.90 between the first and second simulations. This demonstrates MONICA’s ability to predict grass growth patterns amidst changing water supply levels for constant species composition. However, it needs a competition model to capture biomass growth changes with varying water supply. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Water Management)
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16 pages, 27615 KiB  
Article
Crystal Plasticity Finite Element Modeling of the Influences of Ultrafine-Grained Austenite on the Mechanical Response of a Medium-Mn Steel
by Pengfei Shen, Yang Liu and Xiang Zhang
Crystals 2024, 14(5), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14050405 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Medium manganese (medium-Mn) steel, one of the third-generation advanced high-strength steels (AHSS), delivers impressive mechanical properties such as high yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and uniform elongation. One notable feature of medium-Mn steels is the presence of ultrafine-grained (UFG) austenite, achieved through phase [...] Read more.
Medium manganese (medium-Mn) steel, one of the third-generation advanced high-strength steels (AHSS), delivers impressive mechanical properties such as high yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and uniform elongation. One notable feature of medium-Mn steels is the presence of ultrafine-grained (UFG) austenite, achieved through phase transformation from the parent martensite phase during intercritical annealing. While, in general, UFG is considered a strengthening mechanism, the impact of UFG austenites in medium-Mn steel has not been fully studied. In this manuscript, we advance our previous work on crystal plasticity simulation based on the Taylor model to consider fully resolved high-fidelity microstructures and systematically study the influence of the UFG austenites. The original microstructure with UFG is reconstructed from a set of serial electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) scans, where the exact grain morphology, orientation, and phase composition are preserved. This microstructure was further analyzed to identify the UFG austenites and recover them to their parent martensite before the intercritical annealing. These two high-fidelity microstructures are used for a comparative study using dislocation density-based crystal plasticity finite modeling to understand the impact of UFG austenites on both the local and overall mechanical responses. Full article
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28 pages, 6299 KiB  
Article
Oral Supplementation of Ozonated Sunflower Oil Augments Plasma Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Abilities with Enhancement of High-Density Lipoproteins Functionality in Rats
by Kyung-Hyun Cho, Ji-Eun Kim, Myeong-Sung Lee and Ashutosh Bahuguna
Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050529 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Research on ozonated sunflower oil (OSO) is mostly restricted to its topical application, whereas the functional and toxicological assessment of oral OSO consumption is yet to be solved. Herein, OSO was orally supplemented in rats to assess the impact on plasma antioxidant status, [...] Read more.
Research on ozonated sunflower oil (OSO) is mostly restricted to its topical application, whereas the functional and toxicological assessment of oral OSO consumption is yet to be solved. Herein, OSO was orally supplemented in rats to assess the impact on plasma antioxidant status, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Also, the functionality of HDL from the OSO-supplemented rats (OSO-HDL) was tested against carboxymethyl-lysine (CML)- induced hyperinflammation in embryo and adult zebrafish. The results revealed that four weeks of OSO supplementation (3 g/kg BW/day) had no adverse effect on rats’ hematological and blood biochemical profiles. Nonetheless, decreased interleukin (IL)-6, and LDL-C levels, along with enhanced ferric ion reduction ability (FRA) and sulfhydryl content, were observed in the plasma of OSO-supplemented rats compared to the control and sunflower oil (SO) supplemented group. In addition, OSO supplementation stabilized apoA-I/HDL and augmented HDL-allied paraoxonase (PON)-1 activity. The microinjection of OSO-HDL (10 nL, 2 mg/mL) efficiently prevented the CML (500 ng)-induced zebrafish embryo mortality and developmental deformities. Similarly, OSO-HDL thwarted CML-posed neurotoxicity and demonstrated a significant hepatoprotective effect against CML-induced fatty liver changes, hepatic inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, as well as exhibiting a noticeable influence to revert CML-induced dyslipidemia. Conclusively, OSO supplementation demonstrated no toxic effects on rats, ameliorated plasma antioxidant status, and positively influenced HDL stability and functionality, leading to a protective effect against CML-induced toxicity in zebrafish. Full article
16 pages, 1025 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Mixed Phosphonate Esters and Amino Acid-Based Phosphonamidates, and Their Screening as Herbicides
by Simon Backx, Willem Desmedt, Andreas Dejaegere, Andreas Simoens, Jef Van de Poel, Dorota Krasowska, Kris Audenaert, Christian V. Stevens and Sven Mangelinckx
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4739; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094739 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
While organophosphorus chemistry is gaining attention in a variety of fields, the synthesis of the phosphorus derivatives of amino acids remains a challenging task. Previously reported methods require the deprotonation of the nucleophile, complex reagents or hydrolysis of the phosphonate ester. In this [...] Read more.
While organophosphorus chemistry is gaining attention in a variety of fields, the synthesis of the phosphorus derivatives of amino acids remains a challenging task. Previously reported methods require the deprotonation of the nucleophile, complex reagents or hydrolysis of the phosphonate ester. In this paper, we demonstrate how to avoid these issues by employing phosphonylaminium salts for the synthesis of novel mixed n-alkylphosphonate diesters or amino acid-derived n-alkylphosphonamidates. We successfully applied this methodology for the synthesis of novel N-acyl homoserine lactone analogues with varying alkyl chains and ester groups in the phosphorus moiety. Finally, we developed a rapid, quantitative and high-throughput bioassay to screen a selection of these compounds for their herbicidal activity. Together, these results will aid future research in phosphorus chemistry, agrochemistry and the synthesis of bioactive targets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic Compounds: Design, Synthesis and Biological Application)
11 pages, 388 KiB  
Article
The Relationship between Digital Game Addiction Tendency and Depressive Symptoms in Children (36–72 Months)
by Melike Yavas Celik
Children 2024, 11(5), 520; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11050520 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Aim: We aimed to evaluate the relationship between digital game addiction tendency and depressive symptoms in children (36–72 months). Method: We conducted this research in a virtual environment with the mothers of 747 children (36–72 months). A predictive evaluation was performed using [...] Read more.
Aim: We aimed to evaluate the relationship between digital game addiction tendency and depressive symptoms in children (36–72 months). Method: We conducted this research in a virtual environment with the mothers of 747 children (36–72 months). A predictive evaluation was performed using a simple regression analysis between the mean scores of the Digital Game Addiction Tendency Scale (DGATS) and the Child Depressive Symptoms Assessment Scale (CDSAS). Results: A total of 53.9% of children reported that they play games for 3–24 h a day. The average duration of children playing digital games was 2.86 ± 1.86 h per day. The total mean score of the CDSAS was 142.48 ± 27.36. The total mean score the children received from DGATS was 46.34 ± 17.28. In the regression analysis, it was determined that there was a strong positive correlation between the (DGATS) total score average and the (CDSAS) total score average (R = 0.52, R2 = 0.27, p < 0.05). Accordingly, digital game addiction tendency explains 27% of children’s depressive symptoms. Conclusions: When the standardized beta coefficient and t values are examined, it can be said that digital game addiction tendency is a significant predictor of children’s depressive symptoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Stress Resilience in Children and Adolescents)
33 pages, 1437 KiB  
Article
Analyzing Urban Climatic Shifts in Annaba City: Decadal Trends, Seasonal Variability and Extreme Weather Events
by Bouthaina Sayad, Oumr Adnan Osra, Adel Mohammad Binyaseen and Wajdy Sadagh Qattan
Atmosphere 2024, 15(5), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15050529 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Global warming is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, contributing to climate change effects and with far-reaching implications for built environments. The main aim of this study is to assess the extent to which Annaba city, Algeria, as part of [...] Read more.
Global warming is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, contributing to climate change effects and with far-reaching implications for built environments. The main aim of this study is to assess the extent to which Annaba city, Algeria, as part of the Mediterranean region, is affected by global climate change and its broader influences. The study investigated climatic shifts in Annaba city, using a multi-step methodology integrating data collection and analysis techniques. Data collection included 23 years of climate data (2000–2023) from Annaba’s meteorological station, on-site measurements of microclimatic variations, and a questionnaire survey. The collected data underwent four main analyses: a time series analysis to describe climate parameters over 23 years, a statistical analysis to predict potential future climatic conditions (2024–2029) and the correlation of various climatic variables using specialized bioclimate tools to highlight seasonal variability, a spatial study of the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon and perceived climatic shifts, and an analysis of extreme weather events characterizing heat atmospheric events in the context of urban climate change in the Mediterranean region. The findings revealed a consistent warming trend in Annaba city, with prolonged extreme climate conditions observed, particularly in the last four years (2020–2023). Significant temperature fluctuations were emphasized, notably in July 2023, with record-breaking maximum temperatures reaching 48.2 °C, the hottest on record with an increase of 3.8 °C, and presenting challenges amplified by the urban heat island effect, causing temperature differentials of up to 6 °C within built-up areas. Projections for 2029 suggest a tendency towards heightened aridity with a significant shift towards a new climate seasonality featuring two distinct main seasons—moderate and hot challenging. The abrupt disruption of calm weather conditions in Annaba on 24 July 2023 highlighted the influence of atmospheric circulation within the Mediterranean region featured for both anticyclones and atmospheric blocking phenomena on local weather patterns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate and Weather Extremes in the Mediterranean)
21 pages, 3147 KiB  
Article
Quantitative Research on the Morphological Characteristics of Lunar Impact Craters of Different Stratigraphic Ages since the Imbrian Period
by Ke Zhang, Jianzhong Liu, Li Zhang, Yaya Gu, Zongyu Yue, Sheng Zhang, Jingyi Zhang, Huibin Qin and Jingwen Liu
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(9), 1540; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16091540 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Impact craters serve as recorders of lunar evolutionary history, and determining the stratigraphic ages of craters is crucial. However, the age of many craters on the Moon remains undetermined. The morphology of craters is closely related to their stratigraphic ages. In the study, [...] Read more.
Impact craters serve as recorders of lunar evolutionary history, and determining the stratigraphic ages of craters is crucial. However, the age of many craters on the Moon remains undetermined. The morphology of craters is closely related to their stratigraphic ages. In the study, we systematically and quantitatively analyzed seven morphological parameters of 432 impact craters with known stratigraphic ages (Copernican, Eratosthenian, Imbrian), including crater depth, wall width, wall height, rim height, irregularity, volume, and roughness, as well as rock abundance. The study provided a range of morphological parameters for craters from the Copernican, Eratosthenian, and Imbrian. Additionally, we derived power law relationships between five morphological parameters and crater diameter, excluding irregularity and roughness. Furthermore, the transitional crater diameters from simple to complex crater morphology were determined for the Copernican and Eratosthenian, approximately 13 km and 15 km, respectively. These results suggest systematic differences in the lunar regolith in different stratigraphic ages. For impact craters of the same diameter, as crater age increases, irregularity tends to be greater, while crater depth, wall width, wall height, rim height, volume, roughness, and rock abundance tend to be smaller. Therefore, in cases where the diameter is determined, the actual values of morphological parameters and rock abundance can be used to constrain the stratigraphic age information of craters of an unknown age. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Satellite Missions for Earth and Planetary Exploration)
12 pages, 2658 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Aging Precipitates on the Mechanical Properties of Al–Li Alloys and Microstructural Analysis
by Ganghui Li, Wei Xiao, Xiwu Li, Kai Wen, Guanjun Gao, Lizhen Yan, Yanan Li, Hongwei Yan, Yongan Zhang, Xingquan Wang and Baiqing Xiong
Metals 2024, 14(5), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14050506 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this work, the evolution of mechanical properties of binary Al–Li alloys with four approximately equal gradient Li contents (0.91–3.98 wt.%) under aging conditions is thoroughly investigated. The alloys undergo aging treatments at 175 °C for x hours (x = 0–120 h), and [...] Read more.
In this work, the evolution of mechanical properties of binary Al–Li alloys with four approximately equal gradient Li contents (0.91–3.98 wt.%) under aging conditions is thoroughly investigated. The alloys undergo aging treatments at 175 °C for x hours (x = 0–120 h), and the peak-aged times of the four alloys are 6 h, 12 h, 48 h and 48 h, respectively, as the Li concentration increases. Both in the solution-treated and peak-aged states, the elastic modulus of binary Al–Li alloys exhibits an approximately linear increase with increasing Li content, consistent with trends predicted by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Due to the presence of Al3Li precipitates, the modulus of higher-Li-concentration alloys in the peak-aged state increases by approximately 1.4–2.5% compared with that of alloys in the solution-treated state. Additionally, the study finds that increasing Li content significantly enhances the tensile strength and yield strength of the alloy but decreases its ductility, leading to a transition in fracture mode from ductile to brittle, as evidenced by a microscopic analysis of fracture surfaces. Under peak-aged (175 °C/48 h), the alloy with the highest Li content exhibits the maximum tensile strength of 341 MPa and a yield strength of 296 MPa, while its elongation is the lowest at 2.1%. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the effects of aging precipitates on the mechanical properties of Al–Li alloys, providing fundamental guidance for the design of future generations of Al–Li alloys. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Lightweight Alloys)
46 pages, 20932 KiB  
Review
Carbon Quantum Dots: Properties, Preparation, and Applications
by Jichuan Kong, Yihui Wei, Feng Zhou, Liting Shi, Shuangjie Zhao, Mengyun Wan and Xiangfeng Zhang
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 2002; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29092002 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Carbon quantum dots are a novel form of carbon material. They offer numerous benefits including particle size adjustability, light resistance, ease of functionalization, low toxicity, excellent biocompatibility, and high-water solubility, as well as their easy accessibility of raw materials. Carbon quantum dots have [...] Read more.
Carbon quantum dots are a novel form of carbon material. They offer numerous benefits including particle size adjustability, light resistance, ease of functionalization, low toxicity, excellent biocompatibility, and high-water solubility, as well as their easy accessibility of raw materials. Carbon quantum dots have been widely used in various fields. The preparation methods employed are predominantly top-down methods such as arc discharge, laser ablation, electrochemical and chemical oxidation, as well as bottom-up methods such as templates, microwave, and hydrothermal techniques. This article provides an overview of the properties, preparation methods, raw materials for preparation, and the heteroatom doping of carbon quantum dots, and it summarizes the applications in related fields, such as optoelectronics, bioimaging, drug delivery, cancer therapy, sensors, and environmental remediation. Finally, currently encountered issues of carbon quantum dots are presented. The latest research progress in synthesis and application, as well as the challenges outlined in this review, can help and encourage future research on carbon quantum dots. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanochemistry)
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16 pages, 10605 KiB  
Article
Identification and Mitigation of Subsidence in Karstic Areas with Sustainable Geotechnical Structures: A Case Study in Gallur (Spain)
by Alberto Gracia, Francisco Javier Torrijo, Julio Garzón-Roca and Miguel Pérez-Picallo
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3643; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093643 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
In various areas of the Ebro valley in Spain, including the region discussed here, the risk of sinkholes is becoming particularly severe, particularly impacting urban areas and roadways where land subsidence from karstic processes is common. However, knowledge of the area, its geological–geotechnical [...] Read more.
In various areas of the Ebro valley in Spain, including the region discussed here, the risk of sinkholes is becoming particularly severe, particularly impacting urban areas and roadways where land subsidence from karstic processes is common. However, knowledge of the area, its geological–geotechnical configuration, and the carrying out of specific research studies are allowing solutions to be tested in an attempt to resolve these situations. A case in point is the examination of settlement issues along a stretch of the access road leading to the city of Gallur from the east (known as Camino Real) in the Zaragoza province, Spain. Numerous surface manifestations of recent subsidence and/or collapse activities have been observed, manifesting as craters and ground undercuts, some several meters in diameter. The prevalence of highly karstifiable materials in the area, evident from the existence of subsidence pockets and collapse dolines, poses significant safety concerns, particularly for traffic and town access, prompting the closure of Camino Real for several years. Local and provincial authorities have embarked on studies to try to recognise this type of situation. Reports aimed at defining karstification processes, conducting geomechanical analyses of subsidence and cavity collapses, and proposing technical measures to mitigate risks have been prepared. Finally, a consolidation solution was proposed based on injections at column-depth of mortar with special characteristics, combined with the replacement and reinforcement of the most superficial soil by means of high-tensile-strength geotextile meshes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Geotechnical Structure and Geomaterials)
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12 pages, 2717 KiB  
Article
A Model-Free Deep Reinforcement Learning-Based Approach for Assessment of Real-Time PV Hosting Capacity
by Jude Suchithra, Duane A. Robinson and Amin Rajabi
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2075; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092075 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Assessments of the hosting capacity of electricity distribution networks are of paramount importance, as they facilitate the seamless integration of rooftop photovoltaic systems into the grid, accelerating the transition towards a more carbon neutral and sustainable system. This paper employs a deep reinforcement [...] Read more.
Assessments of the hosting capacity of electricity distribution networks are of paramount importance, as they facilitate the seamless integration of rooftop photovoltaic systems into the grid, accelerating the transition towards a more carbon neutral and sustainable system. This paper employs a deep reinforcement learning-based approach to evaluate the real-time hosting capacity of low voltage distribution networks in a model-free manner. The proposed approach only requires real-time customer voltage data and solar irradiation data to provide a fast and accurate estimate of real-time hosting capacity at each customer connection point. This study addresses the imperative for accurate electrical models, which are frequently unavailable, in evaluating the hosting capacity of electricity distribution networks. To meet this challenge, the proposed approach utilizes a deep neural network-based, data-driven model of a low-voltage electricity distribution network. This proposed methodology incorporates model-free elements, enhancing its adaptability and robustness. In addition, a comparative analysis between model-based and model-free hosting capacity assessment methods is presented, highlighting their respective strengths and weaknesses. The utilization of the proposed hosting capacity estimation model enables distribution network service providers to make well-informed decisions regarding grid planning, leading to cost minimization. Full article
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13 pages, 1055 KiB  
Article
Tuning the Dynamic Thermal Parameters of Nanocarbon Ionanofluids: A Photopyroelectric Study
by Mohanachandran Nair Sindhu Swapna, Carmen Tripon, Alexandra Farcas, Dorin Nicolae Dadarlat, Dorota Korte and Sankaranarayana Iyer Sankararaman
C 2024, 10(2), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/c10020040 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The present work delineates the tailoring of the thermal effusivity and diffusivity of the novel class of heat transfer fluids—ionanofluids—by the incorporation of nanocarbons like diesel soot (DS), camphor soot (CS), carbon nanotubes (CN), and graphene (GR). When the thermal diffusivity delivers information [...] Read more.
The present work delineates the tailoring of the thermal effusivity and diffusivity of the novel class of heat transfer fluids—ionanofluids—by the incorporation of nanocarbons like diesel soot (DS), camphor soot (CS), carbon nanotubes (CN), and graphene (GR). When the thermal diffusivity delivers information on the thermal energy propagation, the thermal effusivity concerns the energy exchange at the interface, enabling energy-efficient thermal system design. The nanocarbons are subjected to morphological characterisation by field emission scanning electron microscopy. Fourier-transform infrared and Raman spectroscopic analyses confirm functional groups and vibrational bands. The microcrystalline size and graphiticity are also understood from the Raman spectrum. Ionanofluids prepared by dispersing nanocarbons into an ionic liquid base 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium methyl sulfate (BMMS) are analysed by nondestructive photopyroelectric calorimetry (PPE). The PPE analysis of ionanofluids demonstrates that nanocarbons influence thermal parameters in the base fluid, with soot ionanofluids exhibiting increased thermal effusivity and diffusivity due to their various carbon allotropic composition. This study underscores the importance of selecting the appropriate carbon allotrope for tailoring ionanofluids’ thermal properties, providing insights into manipulating these properties for enhanced performance across various industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Carbon Materials and Carbon Allotropes)
14 pages, 6600 KiB  
Article
Development of an Artificial-Intelligence-Based Tool for Automated Assessment of Cellularity in Bone Marrow Biopsies in Ph-Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
by Giuseppe D’Abbronzo, Antonio D’Antonio, Annarosaria De Chiara, Luigi Panico, Lucianna Sparano, Anna Diluvio, Antonello Sica, Gino Svanera, Renato Franco and Andrea Ronchi
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091687 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The cellularity assessment in bone marrow biopsies (BMBs) for the diagnosis of Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) is a key diagnostic feature and is usually performed by the human eyes through an optical microscope with consequent inter-observer and intra-observer variability. Thus, the [...] Read more.
The cellularity assessment in bone marrow biopsies (BMBs) for the diagnosis of Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) is a key diagnostic feature and is usually performed by the human eyes through an optical microscope with consequent inter-observer and intra-observer variability. Thus, the use of an automated tool may reduce variability, improving the uniformity of the evaluation. The aim of this work is to develop an accurate AI-based tool for the automated quantification of cellularity in BMB histology. A total of 55 BMB histological slides, diagnosed as Ph- MPN between January 2018 and June 2023 from the archives of the Pathology Unit of University “Luigi Vanvitelli” in Naples (Italy), were scanned on Ventana DP200 or Epredia P1000 and exported as whole-slide images (WSIs). Fifteen BMBs were randomly selected to obtain a training set of AI-based tools. An expert pathologist and a trained resident performed annotations of hematopoietic tissue and adipose tissue, and annotations were exported as .tiff images and .png labels with two colors (black for hematopoietic tissue and yellow for adipose tissue). Subsequently, we developed a semantic segmentation model for hematopoietic tissue and adipose tissue. The remaining 40 BMBs were used for model verification. The performance of our model was compared with an evaluation of the cellularity of five expert hematopathologists and three trainees; we obtained an optimal concordance between our model and the expert pathologists’ evaluation, with poorer concordance for trainees. There were no significant differences in cellularity assessments between two different scanners. Full article
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14 pages, 3468 KiB  
Article
Through-Ice Acoustic Communication for Ocean Worlds Exploration
by Hyeong Jae Lee, Yoseph Bar-Cohen, Mircea Badescu, Stewart Sherrit, Benjamin Hockman, Scott Bryant, Samuel M. Howell, Elodie Lesage and Miles Smith
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2776; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092776 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Subsurface exploration of ice-covered planets and moons presents communications challenges because of the need to communicate through kilometers of ice. The objective of this task is to develop the capability to wirelessly communicate through kilometers of ice and thus complement the potentially failure-prone [...] Read more.
Subsurface exploration of ice-covered planets and moons presents communications challenges because of the need to communicate through kilometers of ice. The objective of this task is to develop the capability to wirelessly communicate through kilometers of ice and thus complement the potentially failure-prone tethers deployed behind an ice-penetrating probe on Ocean Worlds. In this paper, the preliminary work on the development of wireless deep-ice communication is presented and discussed. The communication test and acoustic attenuation measurements in ice have been made by embedding acoustic transceivers in glacial ice at the Matanuska Glacier, Anchorage, Alaska. Field test results show that acoustic communication is viable through ice, demonstrating the transmission of data and image files in the 13–18 kHz band over 100 m. The results suggest that communication over many kilometers of ice thickness could be feasible by employing reduced transmitting frequencies around 1 kHz, though future work is needed to better constrain the likely acoustic attenuation properties through a refrozen borehole. Full article
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26 pages, 10498 KiB  
Article
Novel Genome-Engineered H Alleles Differentially Affect Lateral Inhibition and Cell Dichotomy Processes during Bristle Organ Development
by Tanja C. Mönch, Thomas K. Smylla, Franziska Brändle, Anette Preiss and Anja C. Nagel
Genes 2024, 15(5), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15050552 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Hairless (H) encodes the major antagonist in the Notch signaling pathway, which governs cellular differentiation of various tissues in Drosophila. By binding to the Notch signal transducer Suppressor of Hairless (Su(H)), H assembles repressor complexes onto Notch target genes. Using genome engineering, [...] Read more.
Hairless (H) encodes the major antagonist in the Notch signaling pathway, which governs cellular differentiation of various tissues in Drosophila. By binding to the Notch signal transducer Suppressor of Hairless (Su(H)), H assembles repressor complexes onto Notch target genes. Using genome engineering, three new H alleles, HFA, HLLAAand HWA were generated and a phenotypic series was established by several parameters, reflecting the residual H-Su(H) binding capacity. Occasionally, homozygous HWA flies develop to adulthood. They were compared with the likewise semi-viable HNN allele affecting H-Su(H) nuclear entry. The H homozygotes were short-lived, sterile and flightless, yet showed largely normal expression of several mitochondrial genes. Typical for H mutants, both HWA and HNN homozygous alleles displayed strong defects in wing venation and mechano-sensory bristle development. Strikingly, however, HWA displayed only a loss of bristles, whereas bristle organs of HNN flies showed a complete shaft-to-socket transformation. Apparently, the impact of HWA is restricted to lateral inhibition, whereas that of HNN also affects the respective cell type specification. Notably, reduction in Su(H) gene dosage only suppressed the HNN bristle phenotype, but amplified that of HWA. We interpret these differences as to the role of H regarding Su(H) stability and availability. Full article
24 pages, 1695 KiB  
Article
A Versatile Approach for Adaptive Grid Mapping and Grid Flex-Graph Exploration with a Field-Programmable Gate Array-Based Robot Using Hardware Schemes
by Mudasar Basha, Munuswamy Siva Kumar, Mangali Chinna Chinnaiah, Siew-Kei Lam, Thambipillai Srikanthan, Gaddam Divya Vani, Narambhatla Janardhan, Dodde Hari Krishna and Sanjay Dubey
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2775; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092775 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Robotic exploration in dynamic and complex environments requires advanced adaptive mapping strategies to ensure accurate representation of the environments. This paper introduces an innovative grid flex-graph exploration (GFGE) algorithm designed for single-robot mapping. This hardware-scheme-based algorithm leverages a combination of quad-grid and graph [...] Read more.
Robotic exploration in dynamic and complex environments requires advanced adaptive mapping strategies to ensure accurate representation of the environments. This paper introduces an innovative grid flex-graph exploration (GFGE) algorithm designed for single-robot mapping. This hardware-scheme-based algorithm leverages a combination of quad-grid and graph structures to enhance the efficiency of both local and global mapping implemented on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). This novel research work involved using sensor fusion to analyze a robot’s behavior and flexibility in the presence of static and dynamic objects. A behavior-based grid construction algorithm was proposed for the construction of a quad-grid that represents the occupancy of frontier cells. The selection of the next exploration target in a graph-like structure was proposed using partial reconfiguration-based frontier-graph exploration approaches. The complete exploration method handles the data when updating the local map to optimize the redundant exploration of previously explored nodes. Together, the exploration handles the quadtree-like structure efficiently under dynamic and uncertain conditions with a parallel processing architecture. Integrating several algorithms into indoor robotics was a complex process, and a Xilinx-based partial reconfiguration approach was used to prevent computing difficulties when running many algorithms simultaneously. These algorithms were developed, simulated, and synthesized using the Verilog hardware description language on Zynq SoC. Experiments were carried out utilizing a robot based on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and the resource utilization and power consumption of the device were analyzed. Full article
14 pages, 11462 KiB  
Article
Self-Powered Pressure–Temperature Bimodal Sensing Based on the Piezo-Pyroelectric Effect for Robotic Perception
by Xiang Yu, Yun Ji, Xinyi Shen and Xiaoyun Le
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2773; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092773 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Multifunctional sensors have played a crucial role in constructing high-integration electronic networks. Most of the current multifunctional sensors rely on multiple materials to simultaneously detect different physical stimuli. Here, we demonstrate the large piezo-pyroelectric effect in ferroelectric Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 [...] Read more.
Multifunctional sensors have played a crucial role in constructing high-integration electronic networks. Most of the current multifunctional sensors rely on multiple materials to simultaneously detect different physical stimuli. Here, we demonstrate the large piezo-pyroelectric effect in ferroelectric Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) single crystals for simultaneous pressure and temperature sensing. The outstanding piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties of PMN-PT result in rapid response speed and high sensitivity, with values of 46 ms and 28.4 nA kPa−1 for pressure sensing, and 1.98 s and 94.66 nC °C−1 for temperature detection, respectively. By leveraging the distinct differences in the response speed of piezoelectric and pyroelectric responses, the piezo-pyroelectric effect of PMN-PT can effectively detect pressure and temperature from mixed-force thermal stimuli, which enables a robotic hand for stimuli classification. With appealing multifunctionality, fast speed, high sensitivity, and compact structure, the proposed self-powered bimodal sensor therefore holds significant potential for high-performance artificial perception. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensors and Robotics)
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18 pages, 1561 KiB  
Article
Biodiversity Conservation in Xishuangbanna, China: Diversity Analysis of Traditional Knowledge Related to Biodiversity and Conservation Progress and Achievement Evaluation
by Qing Huang, Yinzhi Kuang, Hao Zhou, Xunqi Li and Lun Yin
Diversity 2024, 16(5), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16050260 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Biodiversity plays an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of the earth. The study of traditional knowledge related to biological resources is a hot issue in the field of international biodiversity conservation. Xishuangbanna is a key area of biodiversity and a cultural [...] Read more.
Biodiversity plays an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of the earth. The study of traditional knowledge related to biological resources is a hot issue in the field of international biodiversity conservation. Xishuangbanna is a key area of biodiversity and a cultural hotspot of international significance. According to the Technical Regulation for Classification, Investigation, and Inventory of Traditional Knowledge Relating to Biological Diversity issued by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, we investigated and catalogued the traditional knowledge related to biodiversity of the Jino people who have lived in Xishuangbanna for generations, and collected 490 entries of traditional knowledge related to biodiversity of the Jino people. Drawing on the traditional knowledge diversity index calculation method proposed by Wang Guoping, the overall traditional knowledge α-diversity index of the Jino people is 0.63, indicating that the richness of the traditional knowledge of the Jinuo people is relatively high. The traditional culture related to biodiversity, the traditional knowledge related to agricultural genetic resources, and the traditional technology related to the sustainable utilization of biological resources are relatively rich and diverse. The diversity index is 0.86, 0.82 and 0.79, respectively. In addition, Xishuangbanna has invested a lot of energy in biodiversity protection, including the establishment of nature reserves, botanical gardens, zoos, ecological tea gardens and other species reserves, and the promulgation of laws and policies related to biodiversity protection, and has achieved remarkable results in in situ protection and ex situ protection. On the basis of analyzing the progress and achievements of biodiversity conservation in Xishuangbanna, this study points out that Xishuangbanna faces challenges such as the loss of traditional knowledge, insufficient conservation efforts, and great changes in land use, and puts forward corresponding suggestions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity Conservation Planning and Assessment)
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13 pages, 1376 KiB  
Article
Developmental Characteristics and Genesis of Ground Fissures in Wangjiacun, Emei Plateau, Yuncheng Basin, China
by Feida Li, Feiyong Wang, Fujiang Wang and Guoqing Li
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3649; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093649 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Yuncheng Basin is part of the Fenwei Graben System, which has developed ground fissure hazards that have caused serious damage to farmland, houses, and roads and have brought about huge economic losses. Located in Wanrong County on the Emei Plateau in the [...] Read more.
The Yuncheng Basin is part of the Fenwei Graben System, which has developed ground fissure hazards that have caused serious damage to farmland, houses, and roads and have brought about huge economic losses. Located in Wanrong County on the Emei Plateau in the northwestern part of the Yuncheng Basin in China, the Wangjiacun ground fissure is a typical and special ground fissure developed in loess areas, and its formation is closely related to tectonic joints and the collapsibility of loess. In order to reveal the formation and genesis of the Wangjiacun ground fissure, the geological background, developmental characteristics, and genesis pattern of the Wangjiacun ground fissures were studied in detail. A total of three ground fissures have developed in this area: a linear fissure (f1) is distributed in an NNE-SSW direction, with a total length of 334 m; a circular fissure (f2) is located near the pool, with a total length of 720 m; f2-1, a linear fissure near f2, has a fissure length of 110 m and an NE orientation. This study shows that tectonic joints in loess areas are the main controlling factors of the linear fissure (f1); differential subsidence in the pool caused by collapsible loess is the main source of motivation for the formation of the circular fissures (f2, f2-1), and tensile stresses produced by the edges of subsidence funnels lead to the cracking of shallow rock and soil bodies to form ground fissures (f2, f2-1). This study enriches the theory of ground fissure genesis and is of great significance for disaster prevention and the mitigation of ground fissures in loess areas. Full article
30 pages, 1532 KiB  
Article
Product Improvement Using Knowledge Mining and Effect Analogy
by Kang Wang, Runhua Tan and Qingjin Peng
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3699; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093699 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Different from new product development, design improvement aims to solve the problems of existing products. Although design knowledge and effect tools have been applied in product improvement, the existing methods for design improvement are limited in their specific application areas. A general method [...] Read more.
Different from new product development, design improvement aims to solve the problems of existing products. Although design knowledge and effect tools have been applied in product improvement, the existing methods for design improvement are limited in their specific application areas. A general method of product improvement is proposed in this paper using the knowledge mining and effect analogy. The length–time dimension is introduced to link the problem analysis and problem-solving for the first time. This method includes the effect knowledge base construction, length–time dimension extraction, effect retrieval, effect ranking, analogy object selection, and effect structure mapping. This method integrates a variety of algorithms and software tools in design knowledge mining to improve the efficiency of the effect analogy for product improvement. Through the comparative analysis of three effect retrieval methods and design improvement of a button battery ring device, the superiority and feasibility of the proposed method are verified. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
20 pages, 742 KiB  
Review
Agricultural Practices for Biodiversity Enhancement: Evidence and Recommendations for the Viticultural Sector
by Sara M. Marcelino, Pedro Dinis Gaspar, Arminda do Paço, Tânia M. Lima, Ana Monteiro, José Carlos Franco, Erika S. Santos, Rebeca Campos and Carlos M. Lopes
AgriEngineering 2024, 6(2), 1175-1194; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering6020067 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Agricultural expansion and intensification worldwide has caused a reduction in ecological infrastructures for insects, herbaceous plants, and vertebrate insectivores, among other organisms. Agriculture is recognized as one of the key influences in biodiversity decline, and initiatives such as the European Green Deal highlight [...] Read more.
Agricultural expansion and intensification worldwide has caused a reduction in ecological infrastructures for insects, herbaceous plants, and vertebrate insectivores, among other organisms. Agriculture is recognized as one of the key influences in biodiversity decline, and initiatives such as the European Green Deal highlight the need to reduce ecosystem degradation. Among fruit crops, grapes are considered one of the most intensive agricultural systems with the greatest economic relevance. This study presents a compilation of management practices to enhance biodiversity performance, which applies generally to the agricultural sector and, in particular, to viticulture, concerning the diversity of plants, semi-natural habitats, soil management, and the chemical control strategies and pesticides used in agricultural cultivation. Through a critical review, this study identifies a set of recommendations for biodiversity performance and their corresponding effects, contributing to the dissemination of management options to boost biodiversity performance. The results highlight opportunities for future investigations in determining the needed conditions to ensure both biodiversity enhancement and productive gains, and understanding the long-term effects of innovative biodiversity-friendly approaches. Full article

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