The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
15 pages, 1994 KiB  
Article
How the Digital Product Passport Can Lead the Plastics Industry towards a Circular Economy—A Case Study from Bottle Caps to Frisbees
by Thomas Rumetshofer, Klaus Straka and Jörg Fischer
Polymers 2024, 16(10), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16101420 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The Digital Product Passport (DPP) as a product-specific data set is a powerful tool that provides information on the origin or composition of products and increases transparency and traceability. This recycling case study accompanies the production of 2192 frisbees, which originated from collected [...] Read more.
The Digital Product Passport (DPP) as a product-specific data set is a powerful tool that provides information on the origin or composition of products and increases transparency and traceability. This recycling case study accompanies the production of 2192 frisbees, which originated from collected beverage bottle caps. In total, 486.7 kg of feedstock was collected and transformed into 363.2 kg of final product with verified traceability through all process steps via a DPP, provided by the R-Cycle initiative and based on the GS1 standard. This demanded a generally agreed dataset, the availability of technical infrastructure, and additional effort in the processing steps to collect and process the data. R-Cycle offers a one-layer DPP where the data structure is lean and information is visible to everyone. This is beneficial to a variety of stakeholders in terms of transparency. However, it does not allow the sharing of sensitive information. On the one hand, the DPP has a high potential to be an enabler for customer engagement, origin verification, or as a starting point for more efficient and advanced recycling of plastics. On the other hand, the DPP involves a certain effort in data generation and handling, which must be justified by the benefits. For small, simple packaging items, the DPP may not be the perfect solution for all problems. However, with a broader societal mindset and legislative push, the DPP can become a widely used and trusted declaration tool. This can support the plastics industry in its journey towards a circular economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Circular and Green Polymer Science)
9 pages, 905 KiB  
Article
Selenoprotein P-1 (SEPP1) as an Early Biomarker of Myocardial Injury in Patients Undergoing Cardiopulmonary Bypass
by Giuseppe Filiberto Serraino, Davide Bolignano, Federica Jiritano, Giuseppe Coppolino, Désirée Napolitano, Mariateresa Zicarelli, Patrizia Pizzini, Sebastiano Cutrupi, Alessandra Testa, Belinda Spoto, Michele Andreucci, Pasquale Mastroroberto and Raffaele Serra
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 2943; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13102943 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Biomarkers development for prognostication or prediction of perioperative myocardial disease is critical for the evolution of treatment options in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The aim of our prospective monocentric study was to investigate the role of selenoprotein 1 (SEEP 1) as [...] Read more.
Background: Biomarkers development for prognostication or prediction of perioperative myocardial disease is critical for the evolution of treatment options in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The aim of our prospective monocentric study was to investigate the role of selenoprotein 1 (SEEP 1) as a potential biomarker for assessing the risk of myocardial injury after cardiac surgery. Methods: Circulating SEPP1 was measured in the blood of 45 patients before surgery and at 4 h, 8 h and 12 h after CPB by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); (3) Results: circulating SEPP-1 levels measured 4 h after surgery were strongly correlated with CK-MB levels measured at 48 h (R = 0.598, p < 0.0001) and at 72 h (R = 0.308, p = 0.05). Close correlations were also found between 4 h SEPP-1 and Hs-c troponin values measured at 24 h (R = 0.532, p < 0.0001), 48 h (R = 0.348, p = 0.01) and 72 h (R = 0.377, p = 0.02), as well as with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) (R = 0.389, p = 0.008) and cross-clamp time (R = 0.374, p = 0.001); (4) Conclusions: Early SEPP1 measurement after CPB may hold great potential for identifying cardiac surgery patients at risk of developing perioperative myocardial injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
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10 pages, 1720 KiB  
Article
Critical Exponents and Universality for Fractal Time Processes above the Upper Critical Dimensionality
by Shaolong Zeng, Yangfan Hu, Shijing Tan and Biao Wang
Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(5), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8050294 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
We study the critical behaviors of systems undergoing fractal time processes above the upper critical dimension. We derive a set of novel critical exponents, irrespective of the order of the fractional time derivative or the particular form of interaction in the Hamiltonian. For [...] Read more.
We study the critical behaviors of systems undergoing fractal time processes above the upper critical dimension. We derive a set of novel critical exponents, irrespective of the order of the fractional time derivative or the particular form of interaction in the Hamiltonian. For fractal time processes, we not only discover new universality classes with a dimensional constant but also decompose the dangerous irrelevant variables to obtain corrections for critical dynamic behavior and static critical properties. This contrasts with the traditional theory of critical phenomena, which posits that static critical exponents are unrelated to the dynamical processes. Simulations of the Landau–Ginzburg model for fractal time processes and the Ising model with temporal long-range interactions both show good agreement with our set of critical exponents, verifying its universality. The discovery of this new universality class provides a method for examining whether a system is undergoing a fractal time process near the critical point. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fractional Models and Statistical Applications)
20 pages, 8154 KiB  
Article
Thymol Deploys Multiple Antioxidative Systems to Suppress ROS Accumulation in Chinese Cabbage Seedlings under Saline Stress
by Changwei Sun, Jian Chen, Lanlan Wang, Jiajun Li, Zhiqi Shi, Lifei Yang and Xiangyang Yu
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1059; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051059 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Developing biostimulants is a promising approach for sustainable agriculture under a saline environment. Thymol is a plant-derived compound with a potential antioxidative capacity. However, little is known about whether and how the antioxidative property of thymol plays a role in inducing plant tolerance [...] Read more.
Developing biostimulants is a promising approach for sustainable agriculture under a saline environment. Thymol is a plant-derived compound with a potential antioxidative capacity. However, little is known about whether and how the antioxidative property of thymol plays a role in inducing plant tolerance against abiotic stresses. Here, we find that thymol induces saline tolerance in Chinese cabbage seedlings via enhancing the antioxidative capacity. Treatment with NaCl (100 mM) decreased the seedling fresh weight by 59.9% as compared to a control. Thymol at 20 μM showed the greatest effect on promoting seedling growth under saline stress, with the seedling fresh weight being increased by 71.0% as compared to NaCl treatment. Thymol remarkably decreased the overaccumulation of ROS (hydrogen peroxide and a superoxide radical); cell membrane damage (evaluated by lipid oxidation, membrane integrity, and relative conductivity); and cell death in seedlings under saline stress. Thymol induced three antioxidative systems to lower the ROS level in salt-treated seedlings. First, thymol remarkably activated a set of antioxidative enzymes, such as SOD (superoxide dismutase), APX (ascorbate peroxidase), CAT (catalase), and POD (peroxidase). Second, thymol balanced the cellular redox status by increasing the ratio of AsA/DHA (ascorbic acid/dehydroascorbic acid) and GSH/GSSG (glutathione/oxidized glutathione). Third, thymol significantly enhanced the level-two kinds of antioxidants (total phenol and flavonoid). All of these physiological responses were observed in both the shoots and the roots. In sum, thymol deploys multiple antioxidative systems to help Chinese cabbage seedlings against saline stress. Such findings suggest that thymol has great potential to be developed as a novel biostimulant enhancing crop tolerance against saline stress. Full article
11 pages, 1788 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Desulfurization Process via Choline Phosphotungstate Coupled with Persulfate Using Response Surface Methodology
by Yinke Zhang and Hang Xu
Catalysts 2024, 14(5), 326; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14050326 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Using a simple acid-base neutralization method, a Ch-PW solid catalyst was synthesized by mixing choline hydroxide (ChOH) and phosphotungstic acid (HPW) at a 2:1 molar ratio in an aqueous solution. This catalyst was combined with a 20 wt.% potassium peroxymonosulfate (PMS) solution, using [...] Read more.
Using a simple acid-base neutralization method, a Ch-PW solid catalyst was synthesized by mixing choline hydroxide (ChOH) and phosphotungstic acid (HPW) at a 2:1 molar ratio in an aqueous solution. This catalyst was combined with a 20 wt.% potassium peroxymonosulfate (PMS) solution, using acetonitrile (ACN) as the extraction solvent to create an extraction catalytic oxidative desulfurization system. The optimal desulfurization conditions were determined through response surface methodology, targeting the highest desulfurization rate: 0.99 g of Ch-PW, 1.07 g of PMS, 2.5 g of extraction solvent, at a temperature of 50.48 °C. The predicted desulfurization rate was 90.79%, compared to an experimental rate of 93.64%, with a deviation of 3.04%. A quadratic model correlating the desulfurization rate with the four conditions was developed and validated using ANOVA, which also quantified the impact of each factor on the desulfurization rate: PMS > ACN > Ch-PW > temperature. GC-MS analysis identified the main oxidation product as DBTO2, and the mechanism of desulfurization in this system was further explored. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalytic Materials)
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10 pages, 1019 KiB  
Case Report
Safety and Efficacy of Very Early Conversion to Belatacept in Pediatric Kidney Transplantation with Transplant-Associated Thrombotic Microangiopathy: Case Study and Review of Literature
by Ratna Acharya, William Clapp and Kiran Upadhyay
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(3), 882-891; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14030069 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The inhibition of co-stimulation during T-cell activation has been shown to provide effective immunosuppression in kidney transplantation (KT). Hence, the conversion from calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) to belatacept is emerging as a potential alternate maintenance immunosuppressive therapy in those with transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA) [...] Read more.
The inhibition of co-stimulation during T-cell activation has been shown to provide effective immunosuppression in kidney transplantation (KT). Hence, the conversion from calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) to belatacept is emerging as a potential alternate maintenance immunosuppressive therapy in those with transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA) or in the prevention of TA-TMA. We present a 17-year-old male who presented with biopsy-proven CNI-associated TA-TMA immediately post-KT. The administration of eculizumab led to the reversal of TMA. Tacrolimus was converted to belatacept with excellent efficacy and safety during a short-term follow-up of one year. Further larger controlled studies are required to demonstrate the efficacy of this approach in children who present with early-onset TMA post-KT. Full article
18 pages, 9209 KiB  
Article
UAV Complex-Scene Single-Target Tracking Based on Improved Re-Detection Staple Algorithm
by Yiqing Huang, He Huang, Mingbo Niu, Md Sipon Miah, Huifeng Wang and Tao Gao
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(10), 1768; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16101768 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
With the advancement of remote sensing technology, the demand for the accurate monitoring and tracking of various targets utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is increasing. However, challenges such as object deformation, motion blur, and object occlusion during the tracking process could significantly affect [...] Read more.
With the advancement of remote sensing technology, the demand for the accurate monitoring and tracking of various targets utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is increasing. However, challenges such as object deformation, motion blur, and object occlusion during the tracking process could significantly affect tracking performance and ultimately lead to tracking drift. To address this issue, this paper introduces a high-precision target-tracking method with anomaly tracking status detection and recovery. An adaptive feature fusion strategy is proposed to improve the adaptability of the traditional sum of template and pixel-wise learners (Staple) algorithm to changes in target appearance and environmental conditions. Additionally, the Moth Flame Optimization (MFO) algorithm, known for its strong global search capability, is introduced as a re-detection algorithm in case of tracking failure. Furthermore, a trajectory-guided Gaussian initialization technique and an iteration speed update strategy are proposed based on sexual pheromone density to enhance the tracking performance of the introduced re-detection algorithm. Comparative experiments conducted on UAV123 and UAVDT datasets demonstrate the excellent stability and robustness of the proposed algorithm. Full article
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21 pages, 2361 KiB  
Article
Weighted Robust Tensor Principal Component Analysis for the Recovery of Complex Corrupted Data in a 5G-Enabled Internet of Things
by Hanh Hong-Phuc Vo, Thuan Minh Nguyen and Myungsik Yoo
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4239; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104239 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Technological developments coupled with socioeconomic changes are driving a rapid transformation of the fifth-generation (5G) cellular network landscape. This evolution has led to versatile applications with fast data-transfer capabilities. The integration of 5G with wireless sensor networks (WSNs) has rendered the Internet of [...] Read more.
Technological developments coupled with socioeconomic changes are driving a rapid transformation of the fifth-generation (5G) cellular network landscape. This evolution has led to versatile applications with fast data-transfer capabilities. The integration of 5G with wireless sensor networks (WSNs) has rendered the Internet of Things (IoTs) crucial for measurement and sensing. Although 5G-enabled IoTs are vital, they face challenges in data integrity, such as mixed noise, outliers, and missing values, owing to various transmission issues. Traditional methods such as the tensor robust principal component analysis (TRPCA) have limitations in preserving essential data. This study introduces an enhanced approach, the weighted robust tensor principal component analysis (WRTPCA), combined with weighted tensor completion (WTC). The new method enhances data recovery using tensor singular value decomposition (t-SVD) to separate regular and abnormal data, preserve significant components, and robustly address complex data corruption issues, such as mixed noise, outliers, and missing data, with the globally optimal solution determined through the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM). Our study is the first to address complex corruption in multivariate data using the WTRPCA. The proposed approach outperforms current techniques. In all corrupted scenarios, the normalized mean absolute error (NMAE) of the proposed method is typically less than 0.2, demonstrating strong performance even in the most challenging conditions in which other models struggle. This highlights the effectiveness of the proposed approach in real-world 5G-enabled IoTs. Full article
15 pages, 1458 KiB  
Article
High-Q Multiband Narrowband Absorbers Based on Two-Dimensional Graphene Metamaterials
by Aijun Zhu, Pengcheng Bu, Lei Cheng, Cong Hu and Rabi Mahapatra
Photonics 2024, 11(5), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics11050469 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, an absorber with multi-band, tunable, high Q, and high sensitivity, based on terahertz periodic two-dimensional patterned graphene surface plasmon resonance (SPR), is proposed. The absorber consists of a bottom metal film separated by a periodically patterned graphene metamaterial structure and [...] Read more.
In this paper, an absorber with multi-band, tunable, high Q, and high sensitivity, based on terahertz periodic two-dimensional patterned graphene surface plasmon resonance (SPR), is proposed. The absorber consists of a bottom metal film separated by a periodically patterned graphene metamaterial structure and a SiO2 dielectric layer, where the patterned graphene layer is etched by “+” and “L” shapes and circles. It has simple structural features that can greatly simplify the fabrication process. We have analyzed the optical properties of a graphene surface plasmon perfect metamaterial absorber based on graphene in the terahertz region using the finite-difference method in time domain (FDTD). The results show that the absorber device exhibits three perfect absorption peaks in the terahertz bands of f1 = 1.55 THz, f2 = 4.19 THz, and f3 = 6.92 THz, with absorption rates as high as 98.70%, 99.63%, and 99.42%, respectively. By discussing the effects of parameters such as the geometrical dimensions of patterned graphene metamaterial structure “+” width W1, “L” width W2, circular width R, and the thickness of the dielectric layer on the absorption performance of absorber, as well as investigating the chemical potential and relaxation time of patterned-layer graphene material, it was found that the amplitude of the absorption peaks and the frequency of resonance of absorber devices can be dynamically adjusted. Finally, we simulated the spectra as the surrounding refractive index n varied to better evaluate the sensing performance of the structure, yielding structural sensitivities up to 382 GHz/RIU. Based on this study, we find that the results of our research will open new doors for the use of multi-band, tunable, polarization-independent metamaterial absorbers that are insensitive to large-angle oblique incidence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photonic Devices Based on Plasmonic or Dielectric Nanostructures)
18 pages, 1365 KiB  
Article
Efficient Expansion Algorithm of Urban Logistics Network for Medical Products Considering Environmental Impact
by Byeong Ju Jo, Young Kwan Ko, Yonghui Oh and Young Dae Ko
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4195; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104195 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
As society continues to age, people are becoming more concerned about their health care. This has led to an increase in the demand for medical products in urban areas, emphasizing the need for regular and prompt deliveries. However, the existing logistics centers are [...] Read more.
As society continues to age, people are becoming more concerned about their health care. This has led to an increase in the demand for medical products in urban areas, emphasizing the need for regular and prompt deliveries. However, the existing logistics centers are located in the suburbs of Seoul, a metropolitan city, which makes it challenging to ensure timely delivery. To address this issue, this study aims to establish new logistics centers in urban areas, particularly in Seoul, while minimizing CO2 emissions from delivery vehicles in alignment with sustainability efforts. The scientific gap addressed in and the novelty of this paper is that the input parameters are prepared based on actual data from a medical company in Korea to reflect reality, and the mathematical model-based optimization technique is applied to determine the optimal location of a new logistics center. The genetic algorithm is developed to solve the proposed mathematical model by deriving optimal or near-optimal solutions. Furthermore, the numerical experiment examined the impact of establishing a new logistics center in one of the candidate areas of local governments in Seoul by considering environmental impact. As a result, the new logistics network can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 66.74% compared to the existing logistics network. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)
13 pages, 420 KiB  
Article
Machine Learning-Based Anomaly Detection for Securing In-Vehicle Networks
by Asma Alfardus and Danda B. Rawat
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1962; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101962 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
In-vehicle networks (IVNs) are networks that allow communication between different electronic components in a vehicle, such as infotainment systems, sensors, and control units. As these networks become more complex and interconnected, they become more vulnerable to cyber-attacks that can compromise safety and privacy. [...] Read more.
In-vehicle networks (IVNs) are networks that allow communication between different electronic components in a vehicle, such as infotainment systems, sensors, and control units. As these networks become more complex and interconnected, they become more vulnerable to cyber-attacks that can compromise safety and privacy. Anomaly detection is an important tool for detecting potential threats and preventing cyber-attacks in IVNs. The proposed machine learning-based anomaly detection technique uses deep learning and feature engineering to identify anomalous behavior in real-time. Feature engineering involves selecting and extracting relevant features from the data that are useful for detecting anomalies. Deep learning involves using neural networks to learn complex patterns and relationships in the data. Our experiments show that the proposed technique have achieved high accuracy in detecting anomalies and outperforms existing state-of-the-art methods. This technique can be used to enhance the security of IVNs and prevent cyber-attacks that can have serious consequences for drivers and passengers. Full article
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16 pages, 1617 KiB  
Article
Ascent and Attachment in Pea Plants: A Matter of Iteration
by Silvia Guerra, Giovanni Bruno, Andrea Spoto, Anna Panzeri, Qiuran Wang, Bianca Bonato, Valentina Simonetti and Umberto Castiello
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1389; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101389 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Pea plants (Pisum sativum L.) can perceive the presence of potential supports in the environment and flexibly adapt their behavior to clasp them. How pea plants control and perfect this behavior during growth remains unexplored. Here, we attempt to fill this gap [...] Read more.
Pea plants (Pisum sativum L.) can perceive the presence of potential supports in the environment and flexibly adapt their behavior to clasp them. How pea plants control and perfect this behavior during growth remains unexplored. Here, we attempt to fill this gap by studying the movement of the apex and the tendrils at different leaves using three-dimensional (3D) kinematical analysis. We hypothesized that plants accumulate information and resources through the circumnutation movements of each leaf. Information generates the kinematical coordinates for the final launch towards the potential support. Results suggest that developing a functional approach to grasp movement may involve an interactive trial and error process based on continuous cross-talk across leaves. This internal communication provides evidence that plants adopt plastic responses in a way that optimally corresponds to support search scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Behavioral Ecology)
36 pages, 341 KiB  
Article
Measuring Social Dimensions of Sustainability at the Community Level: An Illustrative but Cautionary Tale
by Cynthia McPherson Frantz, Ifunanya Ezimora, John E. Petersen, Alexandria Edminster, Md Rumi Shammin and Yunzhang Chi
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4197; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104197 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Many communities are working to enhance the sustainability of their physical, economic, and social systems. While economic and physical systems are routinely measured (e.g., money and energy), psychological and behavioral elements of social systems (norms, attitudes, and individual behavior) are seldom tracked. The [...] Read more.
Many communities are working to enhance the sustainability of their physical, economic, and social systems. While economic and physical systems are routinely measured (e.g., money and energy), psychological and behavioral elements of social systems (norms, attitudes, and individual behavior) are seldom tracked. The objective of this research was to evaluate a potentially scalable approach to measure the impact of sustainability initiatives on these variables in a community engaged in holistic sustainability programming. Online survey data were collected in 2012 (N = 155) and 2016 (N = 137), measuring pro-environmental thought and behavior in two towns in Ohio: Oberlin, a community engaged in holistic efforts to enhance environmental sustainability; and a similar community (Berea) used as a control. Survey links were distributed via recruitment letters mailed to randomly selected community residents from a purchased mailing list. We used two (town) by two (time) between subjects’ ANOVAs to evaluate whether Oberlin saw predicted increases in sustainable thought and behavior from 2012 to 2016, compared to the control community. Despite verifiable participation in and awareness of sustainability programs in Oberlin, our survey results did not provide strong evidence that programs resulted in the desired changes in attitudes, norms, and individual behaviors. Recycling attitudes and LED bulb installation were two exceptions. We conclude that assessing the psychological and behavioral dimensions of sustainability poses particular challenges. We encountered ceiling effects and inadequate statistical power. Possibly, norms and attitudes are not easily influenced even by a holistic community-wide effort. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Psychology of Sustainability and Sustainable Development)
9 pages, 259 KiB  
Article
Assessing Disparities about Overweight and Obesity in Pakistani Youth Using Local and International Standards for Body Mass Index
by Muhammad Asif, Hafiz Ahmad Iqrash Qureshi, Saba Mazhar Seyal, Muhammad Aslam, Muhammad Tauseef Sultan, Maysaa Elmahi Abd Elwahab, Piotr Matłosz and Justyna Wyszyńska
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(10), 2944; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13102944 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Obesity is currently considered a public health problem in both developed and developing countries. Gender- and age-specific body mass index (BMI) growth standards or references are particularly effective in monitoring the global obesity pandemic. This study aimed to report disparities in age-, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Obesity is currently considered a public health problem in both developed and developing countries. Gender- and age-specific body mass index (BMI) growth standards or references are particularly effective in monitoring the global obesity pandemic. This study aimed to report disparities in age-, gender- and ethnic-specific statistical estimates of overweight and obesity for 2–18 years aged Pakistani children and adolescents using the World Health Organization (WHO), the Center for Disease Control (CDC) 2000 references, the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) and Pakistani references for BMI. Methods: The study used secondary data of 10,668 pediatric population, aged 2–18 years. Demographic information like age (years), gender, city and anthropometric examinations, i.e., height (cm) and weight (kg) were used in this study. The recommended age- and gender-specific BMI cut-offs of the WHO, CDC 2000 and the IOTF references were used to classify the children sampled as overweight and obese. For the Pakistani reference, overweight and obesity were defined as BMI-for-age ≥ 85th percentile and BMI-for-age ≥ 95th percentile, respectively. Cohen’s κ statistic was used to assess the agreement between the international references and local study population references in the classification of overweight/obesity. Results: The statistical estimates (%) of the participants for overweight and obesity varied according to the reference used: WHO (7.4% and 2.2%), CDC (4.9% and 2.1%), IOTF (5.2% and 2.0%) and Pakistan (8.8% and 6.0%), respectively; suggesting higher levels of overweight and obesity prevalence when local study references are used. The Kappa statistic shows a moderate to excellent agreement (κ ≥ 0.6) among three international references when classifying child overweight and obesity and poor agreement between local references and the WHO (0.45, 0.52), CDC (0.25, 0.50) and IOTF references (0.16, 0.31), for overweight and obesity, respectively. Conclusions: The results of the study showed a visible difference in the estimates of excess body weight after applying the WHO, CDC, IOTF and local BMI references to the study population. Based on the disparity results and poor agreement between international references and the local study reference, this study recommends using local BMI references in identifying children with overweight and obesity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevalence and Risk Factors of Obesity and Hypertension)
10 pages, 365 KiB  
Article
Participation as a Predictor of Quality of Life among Japanese Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders Analyzed Using a Machine Learning Algorithm
by Hiroyasu Shiozu, Daisuke Kimura, Ryoichiro Iwanaga and Shigeki Kurasawa
Children 2024, 11(5), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11050603 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Participation is important for children’s quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to identify participation factors that influence QOL among Japanese children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Ninety-two Japanese parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders participated in this study. The parents completed the parent version [...] Read more.
Participation is important for children’s quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to identify participation factors that influence QOL among Japanese children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Ninety-two Japanese parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders participated in this study. The parents completed the parent version of the Kid- and Kiddo-KINDL health-related QOL questionnaire and the Participation and Environment Measure for Children and Youth. The data were examined using the random forest algorithm to analyze the participation factors that affected the children’s QOL. The analyses revealed that school and community environmental factors that affected participation were the most important predictors of QOL among children. As school and community environments can significantly impact the QOL of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, greater focus should be placed on participation in environmental contexts. Full article
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28 pages, 699 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Access to Intermediate Inputs on Export Margins: Firm-Level Evidence from the Regression Decomposition Approach
by Mohammad Rayhan Miah and Masaru Ichihashi
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4196; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104196 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
This paper analyzes how export margins responded to an intermediate input supply shock caused by the 2020 lockdown in China. We use regression decomposition with triple and quadruple difference-in-differences models to identify causal impacts and mitigate potential heterogeneity in transaction-level customs data from [...] Read more.
This paper analyzes how export margins responded to an intermediate input supply shock caused by the 2020 lockdown in China. We use regression decomposition with triple and quadruple difference-in-differences models to identify causal impacts and mitigate potential heterogeneity in transaction-level customs data from the Bangladesh apparel manufacturing industry. The triple difference estimate shows that the average export value per firm–product–destination combination declined by approximately 65%, leading to a decrease in overall exports of woven apparel from Bangladesh. The input supply shock also adversely affected the subgroups of firms across various firm-level characteristics along the intensive margin. Moreover, the export market share decomposition reveals that the shock significantly affected intensive margins by decreasing incumbents’ market allocation by 9%. An equivalent increase in extensive margins led to a readjustment in the market allocation, leading to fewer market leavers and slightly more new market entrants. Our results indicate that Bangladesh’s exports mostly decreased due to the smaller quantities of products exported rather than there being fewer firms, destinations, or products involved in export trade. There were significant market share reallocations that occurred after the Chinese input supply shock. An appropriate policy stance is required for sustainable export sector growth strategies, which will enhance the country’s defense against potential future shocks and foster the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Bangladesh. Full article
13 pages, 5060 KiB  
Article
Fusion with ARRDC1 or CD63: A Strategy to Enhance p53 Loading into Extracellular Vesicles for Tumor Suppression
by Min Liu, Yu Zhang, Jianfeng He, Wanxi Liu, Zhexuan Li, Yiti Zhang, Ao Gu, Mingri Zhao, Mujun Liu and Xionghao Liu
Biomolecules 2024, 14(5), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14050591 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have emerged as promising therapeutic agents and drug delivery vehicles. Targeted modification of sEVs and their contents using genetic modification strategies is one of the most popular methods. This study investigated the effects of p53 fusion with arrestin domain-containing [...] Read more.
Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have emerged as promising therapeutic agents and drug delivery vehicles. Targeted modification of sEVs and their contents using genetic modification strategies is one of the most popular methods. This study investigated the effects of p53 fusion with arrestin domain-containing protein 1 (ARRDC1) and CD63 on the generation of sEVs, p53 loading efficiency, and therapeutic efficacy. Overexpression of either ARRDC1–p53 (ARP) or CD63–p53 (CDP) significantly elevated p53 mRNA and protein levels. The incorporation of ARRDC1 and CD63 significantly enhanced HEK293T-sEV biogenesis, evidenced by significant increases in sEV-associated proteins TSG101 and LAMP1, resulting in a boost in sEV production. Importantly, fusion with ARRDC1 or CD63 substantially increased the efficiency of loading both p53 fusion proteins and its mRNA into sEVs. sEVs equipped with ARP or CDP significantly enhanced the enrichment of p53 fusion proteins and mRNA in p53-null H1299 cells, resulting in a marked increase in apoptosis and a reduction in cell proliferation, with ARP-sEVs demonstrating greater effectiveness than CDP-sEVs. These findings underscore the enhanced functionality of ARRDC1- and CD63-modified sEVs, emphasizing the potential of genetic modifications in sEV-based therapies for targeted cancer treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Extracellular Vesicles in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment)
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17 pages, 1926 KiB  
Article
Issues of Water Resources in Saudi Arabia: Past, Present, and Future
by Mohammad Suhail, Turki Kh Faraj, Waseem Ahmad, Alikul Xudayberdiyevich Ravshanov and Mohd Nazish Khan
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4189; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104189 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The present paper addresses a comprehensive historical assessment of water consumption, demand, and supply in Saudi Arabia, along with future projections regarding water balance, in terms of demand and supply by source in various sectors. Being an arid region, Saudi Arabia experiences scorching [...] Read more.
The present paper addresses a comprehensive historical assessment of water consumption, demand, and supply in Saudi Arabia, along with future projections regarding water balance, in terms of demand and supply by source in various sectors. Being an arid region, Saudi Arabia experiences scorching heat, low precipitation, a high rate of potential evaporation, and the absence of permanent water bodies over the territory. Groundwater contributes almost 61% of total available water, while the recharge rate is negligible. However, few widyan (ephemeral streams) systems exists to satisfy water demand, which could contribute to approximately one year of domestic water consumption if managed efficiently. The study also predicts water consumption scenarios for the next three consecutive development plans, i.e., the 10th plan (2015–2019), 11th plan (2020–2024), and 12th plan (2025–2029). The analysis shows that water consumption may decline significantly in the future, if the present rate of decline continues. Scenario I, if the current rate is assumed, provides a decrease in consumption of 14.36, 12.66, and 11.15 BCM for 10th, 11th, and 12th plans, respectively. Moreover, the domestic and industrial sectors will consume more water in the future. In the same way, scenarios II and III represent a decline in total water consumption, along with that of agriculture, while domestic and industrial water usage would increase, thus improving environmental sustainability. Full article
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41 pages, 13475 KiB  
Review
New Advances in Materials, Applications, and Design Optimization of Thermocline Heat Storage: Comprehensive Review
by Yunshen Zhang, Yun Guo, Jiaao Zhu, Weijian Yuan and Feng Zhao
Energies 2024, 17(10), 2403; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102403 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
To achieve sustainable development goals and meet the demand for clean and efficient energy utilization, it is imperative to advance the penetration of renewable energy in various sectors. Energy storage systems can mitigate the intermittent issues of renewable energy and enhance the efficiency [...] Read more.
To achieve sustainable development goals and meet the demand for clean and efficient energy utilization, it is imperative to advance the penetration of renewable energy in various sectors. Energy storage systems can mitigate the intermittent issues of renewable energy and enhance the efficiency and economic viability of existing energy facilities. Among various energy storage technologies, thermocline heat storage (THS) has garnered widespread attention from researchers due to its stability and economic advantages. Currently, there are only a few review articles focusing on THS, and there is a gap in the literature regarding the optimization design of THS systems. Therefore, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the recent research progress in THS, elucidating its principles, thermal storage materials, applications, and optimization designs. The novelty of this work lies in the detailed classification and analysis of various optimization designs for THS, including tank shape, aspect ratio, inlet/outlet configuration, thermal energy storage materials arrangement, operating strategies, and numerical model optimization approaches. The limitations of existing research are also identified, and future perspectives are proposed, aiming to provide recommendations for THS research and contribute to the development and promotion of THS technology. Full article
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25 pages, 29501 KiB  
Article
A New Large-Scale Monitoring Index of Desertification Based on Kernel Normalized Difference Vegetation Index and Feature Space Model
by Bing Guo, Rui Zhang, Miao Lu, Mei Xu, Panpan Liu and Longhao Wang
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(10), 1771; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16101771 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
As a new vegetation monitoring index, the KNDVI has certain advantages in characterizing the evolutionary process of regional desertification. However, there are few reports on desertification monitoring based on KNDVI and feature space models. In this study, seven feature parameters, including the kernel [...] Read more.
As a new vegetation monitoring index, the KNDVI has certain advantages in characterizing the evolutionary process of regional desertification. However, there are few reports on desertification monitoring based on KNDVI and feature space models. In this study, seven feature parameters, including the kernel normalized difference vegetation index (KNDVI) and Albedo, were introduced to construct different models for desertification remote-sensing monitoring. The optimal desertification remote-sensing monitoring index model was determined with the measured data; then, the spatiotemporal evolution pattern of desertification in Gulang County from 2013 to 2023 was analyzed and revealed. The main conclusions were as follows: (1) Compared with the NDVI and MSAVI, the KNDVI showed more advantages in the characterization of the desertification evolution process. (2) The point–line pattern KNDVI-Albedo remote-sensing index model had the highest monitoring accuracy, reaching 94.93%, while the point–line pattern NDVI-TGSI remote-sensing monitoring index had the lowest accuracy of 54.38%. (3) From 2013 to 2023, the overall desertification situation in Gulang County showed a trend of improvement with a pattern of “firstly aggravation and then alleviation.” Additionally, the gravity center of desertification in Gulang County first shifted to the southeast and then to the northeast, indicating that the northeast’s aggravating rate of desertification was higher than in the southwest during the period. (4) From 2013 to 2023, the area of stable desertification in Gulang County was the largest, followed by the slightly weakened zone, and the most significant transition area was that of extreme desertification to severe desertification. The research results provide important decision support for the precise monitoring and governance of regional desertification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing for Land Degradation and Drought Monitoring II)
15 pages, 1264 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) Involvement in Human Atrial Fibrillation: A Computational Study
by Paolo Fagone, Katia Mangano, Maria Sofia Basile, José Francisco Munoz-Valle, Vincenzo Perciavalle, Ferdinando Nicoletti and Klaus Bendtzen
Genes 2024, 15(5), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15050634 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
In the present study, we have explored the involvement of Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) in atrial fibrillation (AF), by using a meta-analysis of publicly available human transcriptomic data. The meta-analysis revealed 565 upregulated and 267 downregulated differentially expressed genes associated with AF. Pathway [...] Read more.
In the present study, we have explored the involvement of Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) in atrial fibrillation (AF), by using a meta-analysis of publicly available human transcriptomic data. The meta-analysis revealed 565 upregulated and 267 downregulated differentially expressed genes associated with AF. Pathway enrichment analysis highlighted a significant overrepresentation in immune-related pathways for the upregulated genes. A significant overlap between AF differentially expressed genes and TLR4-modulated genes was also identified, suggesting the potential role of TLR4 in AF-related transcriptional changes. Additionally, the analysis of other Toll-like receptors (TLRs) revealed a significant association with TLR2 and TLR3 in AF-related gene expression patterns. The examination of MYD88 and TICAM1, genes associated with TLR4 signalling pathways, indicated a significant yet nonspecific enrichment of AF differentially expressed genes. In summary, this study offers novel insights into the molecular aspects of AF, suggesting a pathophysiological role of TLR4 and other TLRs. By targeting these specific receptors, new treatments might be designed to better manage AF, offering hope for improved outcomes in affected patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases)
19 pages, 13677 KiB  
Article
Frequency-Separated Attention Network for Image Super-Resolution
by Daokuan Qu, Liulian Li and Rui Yao
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4238; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104238 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The use of deep convolutional neural networks has significantly improved the performance of super-resolution. Employing deeper networks to enhance the non-linear mapping capability from low-resolution (LR) to high-resolution (HR) images has inadvertently weakened the information flow and disrupted long-term memory. Moreover, overly deep [...] Read more.
The use of deep convolutional neural networks has significantly improved the performance of super-resolution. Employing deeper networks to enhance the non-linear mapping capability from low-resolution (LR) to high-resolution (HR) images has inadvertently weakened the information flow and disrupted long-term memory. Moreover, overly deep networks are challenging to train, thus failing to exhibit the expressive capability commensurate with their depth. High-frequency and low-frequency features in images play different roles in image super-resolution. Networks based on CNNs, which should focus more on high-frequency features, treat these two types of features equally. This results in redundant computations when processing low-frequency features and causes complex and detailed parts of the reconstructed images to appear as smooth as the background. To maintain long-term memory and focus more on the restoration of image details in networks with strong representational capabilities, we propose the Frequency-Separated Attention Network (FSANet), where dense connections ensure the full utilization of multi-level features. In the Feature Extraction Module (FEM), the use of the Res ASPP Module expands the network’s receptive field without increasing its depth. To differentiate between high-frequency and low-frequency features within the network, we introduce the Feature-Separated Attention Block (FSAB). Furthermore, to enhance the quality of the restored images using heuristic features, we incorporate attention mechanisms into the Low-Frequency Attention Block (LFAB) and the High-Frequency Attention Block (HFAB) for processing low-frequency and high-frequency features, respectively. The proposed network outperforms the current state-of-the-art methods in tests on benchmark datasets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Pattern Recognition & Computer Vision)
18 pages, 1298 KiB  
Article
Efficient Quality Control of Peptide Pools by UHPLC and Simultaneous UV and HRMS Detection
by Gaby Bosc-Bierne, Shireen Ewald, Oliver J. Kreuzer and Michael G. Weller
Separations 2024, 11(5), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11050156 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Peptide pools consist of short amino acid sequences and have proven to be versatile tools in various research areas in immunology and clinical applications. They are commercially available in many different compositions and variants. However, unlike other reagents that consist of only one [...] Read more.
Peptide pools consist of short amino acid sequences and have proven to be versatile tools in various research areas in immunology and clinical applications. They are commercially available in many different compositions and variants. However, unlike other reagents that consist of only one or a few compounds, peptide pools are highly complex products which makes their quality control a major challenge. Quantitative peptide analysis usually requires sophisticated methods, in most cases isotope-labeled standards and reference materials. Usually, this would be prohibitively laborious and expensive. Therefore, an approach is needed to provide a practical and feasible method for quality control of peptide pools. With insufficient quality control, the use of such products could lead to incorrect experimental results, worsening the well-known reproducibility crisis in the biomedical sciences. Here we propose the use of ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) with two detectors, a standard UV detector at 214 nm for quantitative analysis and a high-resolution mass spectrometer (HRMS) for identity confirmation. To be cost-efficient and fast, quantification and identification are performed in one chromatographic run. An optimized protocol is shown, and different peak integration methods are compared and discussed. This work was performed using a peptide pool known as CEF advanced, which consists of 32 peptides derived from cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and influenza virus, ranging from 8 to 12 amino acids in length. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Peptide Synthesis, Separation and Purification)

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