The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
11 pages, 488 KiB  
Article
Impact of Various Cavity-Preparation Designs on Fracture Resistance and Failure Mode of CAD/CAM Fabricated Ceramic Inlays and Onlays
by Ali Atef Elkaffas, Abdullah Mohammed Alshehri, Ali Robaian Alqahtani, Refal Saad Albaijan and Tarek Ahmed Soliman
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3816; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093816 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
In recent years, CAD/CAM technology has allowed indirect ceramic restorations to become a part of everyday chairside clinical practice. Therefore, the impact of different cavity-preparation designs on the fracture resistance of CAD/CAM fabricated ceramics was assessed in this study. Three designs of cuspal [...] Read more.
In recent years, CAD/CAM technology has allowed indirect ceramic restorations to become a part of everyday chairside clinical practice. Therefore, the impact of different cavity-preparation designs on the fracture resistance of CAD/CAM fabricated ceramics was assessed in this study. Three designs of cuspal covering (none, palatal, and entire) and two widths of the occlusal isthmus (75% and 100% of the intercuspal distance) were used for the preparation of inlays and onlays to form six groups (n = 10/group). Moreover, thermomechanical cyclic loading was applied to every tooth under a chewing simulator. A universal testing machine was used to measure each group’s fracture resistance. The tested specimens were inspected for any signs of fractures and cracks to categorize failure patterns. Thereby, the values of fracture strength showed that there were statistically nonsignificant differences between the tested groups (p < 0.05). However, a significant difference (p = 0.01) was found between group 1 (inlays) (1950 ± 405) and group 6 (onlays) (3900 ± 770). Type III or type IV fracture modes were seen in the majority of the specimens. In conclusion, inlays and onlays made of zirconia using CAD/CAM technology were deemed reliable for restoring premolars, irrespective of the cavity-preparation design, except for inlays with a 75% intercuspal distance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Materials and Techniques in Restorative Dentistry)
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13 pages, 554 KiB  
Article
Confronting Mean Girls Niceness: Conceptualizing Whisper Care to Disrupt the Politics of Niceness in Academia
by Rose Ann E. Gutierrez, Carolyn S. F. Silva and Ruby Batz
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050473 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
While the current literature on Niceness in higher education has examined the discourses and practices of Niceness in academic spaces, making it more identifiable, less is known about how minoritized faculty navigate and disrupt the culture of Niceness. The purpose of this article [...] Read more.
While the current literature on Niceness in higher education has examined the discourses and practices of Niceness in academic spaces, making it more identifiable, less is known about how minoritized faculty navigate and disrupt the culture of Niceness. The purpose of this article is to offer a resistance-based framework to combat academia’s Niceness culture through the lens of the authors. Using theory in the flesh as theory and methodology, we use collaborative autoethnography to conceptualize Whisper Care to give language and articulate an orientation and philosophy rooted in Kindness. Our findings present a process to confront Niceness while guiding, supporting, and protecting each other in higher education institutions. We conclude with implications for future research and practice for faculty and higher education leaders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Niceness, Leadership and Educational Equity)
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22 pages, 15595 KiB  
Article
Research on Statistical Characteristics and Prediction Methods of Ferronickel Slag Pervious Concrete Performance with Different Sizes of Aggregate and Mixtures
by Zhongping Tang, Hua Peng, Shixiang Yi and Fan Feng
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051255 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the exploration of sustainable construction materials, the application of ferronickel slag (FNS) in creating pervious concrete has been investigated, considering its potential to meet the dual requirements of mechanical strength and fluid permeability. To elucidate the statistical properties and models for predicting [...] Read more.
In the exploration of sustainable construction materials, the application of ferronickel slag (FNS) in creating pervious concrete has been investigated, considering its potential to meet the dual requirements of mechanical strength and fluid permeability. To elucidate the statistical properties and models for predicting the performance of FNS-composited pervious concrete with different sizes of aggregates and mixtures, a series of experiments, including 54 kinds of mixtures and three kinds of aggregate, were conducted. The focus was on measuring the compressive strength and the permeability coefficient. The results indicate that the compressive strength of pervious concrete decreases with the increase in aggregate size, while the permeability coefficient increases with the increase in aggregate size. Through normalization, the variability of these properties was quantitatively analyzed, revealing coefficients of variation for the concrete’s overall compressive strength and the permeability coefficient at 0.166, 0.132, and 0.150, respectively. Predictive models were developed using machine learning techniques, such as Linear Regression, Support Vector Machines, Regression Trees, and Gaussian Process Regression. These models demonstrated proficiency in forecasting the concrete’s compressive strength and permeability coefficient. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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13 pages, 1858 KiB  
Article
Fermented Rapeseed and Soybean Alone and in Combination with Macro Algae Inhibit Human and Pig Pathogenic Bacteria In Vitro
by Frederik Beck, Ninfa Rangel Pedersen and Dennis Sandris Nielsen
Microorganisms 2024, 12(5), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12050891 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Higher plants produce secondary metabolites expressing antimicrobial effects as a defense mechanism against opportunistic microorganisms living in close proximity with the plant. Fermentation leads to bioconversion of plant substrates to these bioactive compounds and their subsequent release via breakdown of plant cell walls. [...] Read more.
Higher plants produce secondary metabolites expressing antimicrobial effects as a defense mechanism against opportunistic microorganisms living in close proximity with the plant. Fermentation leads to bioconversion of plant substrates to these bioactive compounds and their subsequent release via breakdown of plant cell walls. Fermented feed products have recently started to become implemented in the pig industry to reduce overall disease pressure and have been found to reduce events such as post-weaning diarrhea. In this study, we investigate the antimicrobial potential of fermented soybean- and rapeseed-based pig feed supplements with and without added seaweed. The antimicrobial effect was tested in a plate well diffusion assay against a range of known human and livestock pathogenic bacteria. Further, we investigate the metabolite profiles based on liquid-chromatography mass-spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis of the fermented products in comparison to their unfermented constituents. We observed a pronounced release of potential antimicrobial secondary metabolites such as benzoic acids when the plant material was fermented, and a significantly increased antimicrobial effect compared to the unfermented controls against several pathogenic bacteria, especially Salmonella enterica Typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, Yersinia enterocolitica, and a strain of atopic dermatitis causing Staphylococcus aureus CC1. In conclusion, fermentation significantly enhances the antimicrobial properties of rapeseed, soybean, and seaweed, offering a promising alternative to zinc oxide for controlling pathogens in piglet feed. This effect is attributed to the release of bioactive metabolites effective against pig production-relevant bacteria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Microbiology)
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14 pages, 9925 KiB  
Article
Modulation Steering Motion by Quantitative Electrical Stimulation in Pigeon Robots
by Mingxuan Bi, Huimin Zhang, Yaohong Ma, Hao Wang, Wenbo Wang, Yuan Shi, Wenlong Sheng, Qiushun Li, Guangheng Gao and Lei Cai
Micromachines 2024, 15(5), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15050595 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The pigeon robot has attracted significant attention in the field of animal robotics thanks to its outstanding mobility and adaptive capability in complex environments. However, research on pigeon robots is currently facing bottlenecks, and achieving fine control over the motion behavior of pigeon [...] Read more.
The pigeon robot has attracted significant attention in the field of animal robotics thanks to its outstanding mobility and adaptive capability in complex environments. However, research on pigeon robots is currently facing bottlenecks, and achieving fine control over the motion behavior of pigeon robots through brain–machine interfaces remains challenging. Here, we systematically quantify the relationship between electrical stimulation and stimulus-induced motion behaviors, and provide an analytical method to demonstrate the effectiveness of pigeon robots based on electrical stimulation. In this study, we investigated the influence of gradient voltage intensity (1.2–3.0 V) on the indoor steering motion control of pigeon robots. Additionally, we discussed the response time of electrical stimulation and the effective period of the brain–machine interface. The results indicate that pigeon robots typically exhibit noticeable behavioral responses at a 2.0 V voltage stimulus. Increasing the stimulation intensity significantly controls the steering angle and turning radius (p < 0.05), enabling precise control of pigeon robot steering motion through stimulation intensity regulation. When the threshold voltage is reached, the average response time of a pigeon robot to the electrical stimulation is 220 ms. This study quantifies the role of each stimulation parameter in controlling pigeon robot steering behavior, providing valuable reference information for the precise steering control of pigeon robots. Based on these findings, we offer a solution for achieving precise control of pigeon robot steering motion and contribute to solving the problem of encoding complex trajectory motion in pigeon robots. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Bioelectronics and Neural Interfaces)
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16 pages, 586 KiB  
Article
Was Shostakovich’s Second Cello Concerto a Hidden Homage?
by Marina Ritzarev
Arts 2024, 13(3), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/arts13030080 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Shostakovich’s direct quotation from the Odessan street song “Bagels, Buy My Bagels!” (Bubliki, kupite bubliki!) in his Second Cello Concerto Op. 126 (1966) featured an unusual style, even in relation to some of his other compositions referencing popular and Jewish music. The song [...] Read more.
Shostakovich’s direct quotation from the Odessan street song “Bagels, Buy My Bagels!” (Bubliki, kupite bubliki!) in his Second Cello Concerto Op. 126 (1966) featured an unusual style, even in relation to some of his other compositions referencing popular and Jewish music. The song is widely known as one of the icons of the Odessa underworld. Shostakovich’s use of this melody as one of the main leit-themes of the Concerto can be compared to the use by the non-Jewish Andrei Sinyavsky of the Jewish pseudonym Abram Tertz, a bandit from the Odessa underworld—the only locus of freedom to tell the truth in a totalitarian society. The time of Shostakovich’s address to this song remarkably coincided with the famous Soviet trial of Andrei Sinyavsky and Yuly Daniel in the fall of 1965 and their final sentencing (February 1966) to years in a Gulag camp. The dramaturgy of Shostakovich’s Concerto, written in the same spring of 1966, demonstrates the transformation of the theme of “Bagels” into a tragic image. The totality of circumstantial evidence suggests that this opus could be the composer’s hidden tribute to the feats of Russian heroic writers. Full article
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21 pages, 7500 KiB  
Article
Numerical Investigation on Alkaline-Surfactant-Polymer Alternating CO2 Flooding
by Weirong Li, Xin Wei, Zhengbo Wang, Weidong Liu, Bing Ding, Zhenzhen Dong, Xu Pan, Keze Lin and Hongliang Yi
Processes 2024, 12(5), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050916 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
For over four decades, carbon dioxide (CO2) has been instrumental in enhancing oil extraction through advanced recovery techniques. One such method, water alternating gas (WAG) injection, while effective, grapples with limitations like gas channeling and gravity segregation. To tackle the aforementioned [...] Read more.
For over four decades, carbon dioxide (CO2) has been instrumental in enhancing oil extraction through advanced recovery techniques. One such method, water alternating gas (WAG) injection, while effective, grapples with limitations like gas channeling and gravity segregation. To tackle the aforementioned issues, this paper proposes an upgrade coupling method named alkaline-surfactant-polymer alternating gas (ASPAG). ASP flooding and CO2 are injected alternately into the reservoir to enhance the recovery of the WAG process. The uniqueness of this method lies in the fact that polymers could help profile modification, CO2 would miscible mix with oil, and alkaline surfactant would reduce oil–water interfacial tension (IFT). To analyze the feasibility of ASPAG, a couples model considering both gas flooding and ASP flooding processes is established by using the CMG-STARS (Version 2021) to study the performance of ASPAG and compare the recovery among ASPAG, WAG, and ASP flooding. Our research delved into the ASPAG’s adaptability across reservoirs varying in average permeability, interlayer heterogeneity, formation rhythmicity, and fluid properties. Key findings include that ASPAG surpasses the conventional WAG in sweep and displacement efficiency, elevating oil recovery by 12–17%, and in comparison to ASP, ASPAG bolsters displacement efficiency, leading to a 9–11% increase in oil recovery. The primary flooding mechanism of ASPAG stems from the ASP slug’s ability to diminish the interfacial tension, enhancing the oil and water mobility ratio, which is particularly efficient in medium-high permeability layers. Through sensitivity analysis, ASPAG is best suited for mid-high-permeability reservoirs characterized by low crude oil viscosity and a composite reverse sedimentary rhythm. This study offers invaluable insights into the underlying mechanisms and critical parameters that influence the alkaline-surfactant-polymer alternating gas method’s success for enhanced oil recovery. Furthermore, it unveils an innovative strategy to boost oil recovery in medium-to-high-permeability reservoirs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Systems)
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16 pages, 1500 KiB  
Article
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging for Skin Pathologies of the Breast—A Feasibility Study
by Dominika Skwierawska, Frederik B. Laun, Evelyn Wenkel, Lorenz A. Kapsner, Rolf Janka, Michael Uder, Sabine Ohlmeyer and Sebastian Bickelhaupt
Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090934 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Several breast pathologies can affect the skin, and clinical pathways might differ significantly depending on the underlying diagnosis. This study investigates the feasibility of using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) to differentiate skin pathologies in breast MRIs. This retrospective study included 88 female patients who [...] Read more.
Several breast pathologies can affect the skin, and clinical pathways might differ significantly depending on the underlying diagnosis. This study investigates the feasibility of using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) to differentiate skin pathologies in breast MRIs. This retrospective study included 88 female patients who underwent diagnostic breast MRI (1.5 or 3T), including DWI. Skin areas were manually segmented, and the apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) were compared between different pathologies: inflammatory breast cancer (IBC; n = 5), benign skin inflammation (BSI; n = 11), Paget’s disease (PD; n = 3), and skin-involved breast cancer (SIBC; n = 11). Fifty-eight women had healthy skin (H; n = 58). The SIBC group had a significantly lower mean ADC than the BSI and IBC groups. These differences persisted for the first-order features of the ADC (mean, median, maximum, and minimum) only between the SIBC and BSI groups. The mean ADC did not differ significantly between the BSI and IBC groups. Quantitative DWI assessments demonstrated differences between various skin-affecting pathologies, but did not distinguish clearly between all of them. More extensive studies are needed to assess the utility of quantitative DWI in supplementing the diagnostic assessment of skin pathologies in breast imaging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Breast Imaging)
6 pages, 162 KiB  
Editorial
New Challenges in Mathematical Modelling and Control of COVID-19 Epidemics: Analysis of Non-Pharmaceutical Actions and Vaccination Strategies
by Cristiano Maria Verrelli and Fabio Della Rossa
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1353; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091353 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Since its official appearance in China in December 2019, COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2)
immediately reached pandemic proportions on six continents and in over 195 countries [...] Full article
16 pages, 2304 KiB  
Article
Regulatory Role of Meox1 in Muscle Growth of Sebastes schlegelii
by Weihao Song, Xiaotong Liu, Kejia Huang, Jie Qi and Yan He
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4871; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094871 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Meox1 is a critical transcription factor that plays a pivotal role in embryogenesis and muscle development. It has been established as a marker gene for growth-specific muscle stem cells in zebrafish. In this study, we identified the SsMeox1 gene in a large teleost [...] Read more.
Meox1 is a critical transcription factor that plays a pivotal role in embryogenesis and muscle development. It has been established as a marker gene for growth-specific muscle stem cells in zebrafish. In this study, we identified the SsMeox1 gene in a large teleost fish, Sebastes schlegelii. Through in situ hybridization and histological analysis, we discovered that SsMeox1 can be employed as a specific marker of growth-specific muscle stem cells, which originate from the somite stage and are primarily situated in the external cell layer (ECL) and myosepta, with a minor population distributed among muscle fibers. The knockdown of SsMeox1 resulted in a significant increase in Ccnb1 expression, subsequently promoting cell cycle progression and potentially accelerating the depletion of the stem cell pool, which ultimately led to significant growth retardation. These findings suggest that SsMeox1 arrests the cell cycle of growth-specific muscle stem cells in the G2 phase by suppressing Ccnb1 expression, which is essential for maintaining the stability of the growth-specific muscle stem cell pool. Our study provides significant insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the indeterminate growth of large teleosts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
21 pages, 1236 KiB  
Article
Associations between Recognition and Behaviors Regarding the Use, Washing and Management of Firefighting Protection Suits and Public Health Awareness of Occupational Exposure Risks among Firefighters
by Soo Jin Kim and Seunghon Ham
Fire 2024, 7(5), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire7050156 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The firefighting protective suits (FPSs) of firefighters at fire scenes affect their health and safety. However, the association between firefighters’ health awareness of occupational exposure risks and the FPS use, washing and management remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association [...] Read more.
The firefighting protective suits (FPSs) of firefighters at fire scenes affect their health and safety. However, the association between firefighters’ health awareness of occupational exposure risks and the FPS use, washing and management remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association between firefighters’ health awareness of occupational exposure risks and their recognition, behaviors regarding the use, washing and management of FPSs. This study design is a cross-sectional study and used a web-based survey of the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s electronic survey system. The survey was conducted on metropolitan firefighters performing shift work in charge of fire and rescue work for 21 days from 1 to 22 April 2019, with 1097 (40.3%) respondents. Characteristics of FPS use, washing and management and the association between thoughts and behaviors thereof and health awareness of occupational exposure risks were evaluated. Data of 1097 firefighters were analyzed using the SAS 9.4 statistical package, chi-square test and logistic regression analysis. Firefighters’ fire scene awareness rate of possible carcinogens was 94.4%. There was an association between public health thinking of occupational exposure risks and the correct use of an FPS for one’s own safety (AOR 1.97. 95% CI 1.02–3.80). However, no association was shown between correct FPS use (AOR 1.49, 95% CI 0.48–4.59), washing (AOR 2.50, 95% CI 0.93–6.68) and management (AOR 1.38, 95% CI 0.75–2.50) behaviors. This study analyzed the relationship between the use, washing and management of personal protective equipment called firefighting clothing and firefighters perceived occupational exposure risks. This study found an association between the health awareness of occupational exposure risks and recognition of the correct use of FPSs at fire scenes but not between using, washing and managing behaviors of FPSs. This study is the first to analyze the relationship between firefighting clothing and occupational health awareness level. The results confirm that future interventions are required to help firefighters practice desirable behaviors toward FPSs and provided evidenced data for preventing occupational diseases among firefighters. Therefore, this study can be used to develop a firefighter occupational health curriculum and establish health and safety plans from mid- to long-term perspectives for firefighters’ safety against occupational exposure risks. Full article
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14 pages, 897 KiB  
Article
Less Is More: Higher-Skilled Sim Racers Allocate Significantly Less Attention to the Track Relative to the Display Features than Lower-Skilled Sim Racers
by John M. Joyce, Mark J. Campbell, Fazilat Hojaji and Adam J. Toth
Vision 2024, 8(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision8020027 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Simulated (sim) racing is an emerging esport that has garnered much interest in recent years and has been a relatively under-researched field in terms of expertise and performance. When examining expertise, visual attention has been of particular interest to researchers, with eye tracking [...] Read more.
Simulated (sim) racing is an emerging esport that has garnered much interest in recent years and has been a relatively under-researched field in terms of expertise and performance. When examining expertise, visual attention has been of particular interest to researchers, with eye tracking technology commonly used to assess visual attention. In this study, we examined the overt visual attention allocation of high- and low-skilled sim racers during a time trial task using Tobii 3 glasses. In the study, 104 participants were tested on one occasion, with 88 included in the analysis after exclusions. Participants were allocated to either group according to their fastest lap times. Independent t-tests were carried out with sidak corrections to test our hypotheses. Our results indicate that when eye tracking metrics were normalised to the lap time and corner sector time, there was a difference in the relative length of overt attention allocation (fixation behaviour) as lower-skilled racers had significantly greater total fixation durations in laps overall and across corner sectors when normalised (p = 0.013; p = 0.018). Interestingly, high- and low-skilled sim racers differed in where they allocated their attention during the task, with high-skilled sim racers allocating significantly less overt attention to the track relative to other areas of the display (p = 0.003). This would allow for higher-skilled racers to obtain relatively more information from heads-up display elements in-game, all whilst driving at faster speeds. This study provides evidence that high-skilled sim racers appear to need significantly less overt attention throughout a fast lap, and that high- and low-skilled sim racers differ in where they allocate their attention while racing. Full article
17 pages, 1282 KiB  
Article
Considering Grouped or Individual Non-Methane Volatile Organic Compound Emissions in Life Cycle Assessment of Composting Using Three Life Cycle Impact Assessment Methods
by Ben Joseph and Heinz Stichnothe
Recycling 2024, 9(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9030035 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Composting is a waste management practice that converts organic waste into a product that can be used safely and beneficially as a bio-fertiliser and soil amendment. Non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) from composting are known to cause damage to human health and the [...] Read more.
Composting is a waste management practice that converts organic waste into a product that can be used safely and beneficially as a bio-fertiliser and soil amendment. Non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) from composting are known to cause damage to human health and the environment. The impact of waste management on the environment and workers is recognised as a growing environmental and public health concern. Measurements of NMVOCs emitted during composting have been carried out only in a few studies. NMVOC emissions are typically reported as a group rather than as species or speciation profiles. Recognising the need to investigate the issues associated with NMVOCs, the objective of this study is to estimate variation in life cycle assessment (LCA) results when NMVOCs are considered individual emissions compared to grouped emissions and to compare midpoint and endpoint life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) methods. In general, the ReCiPe 2016 LCIA method estimated the highest impact from the composting process in comparison to IMPACT World+ and EF 3.0 for the impact categories of ozone formation, stratospheric ozone depletion, and particulate matter formation. For ReCiPe 2016 and IMPACT World+, the NMVOC emissions were not linked to human toxicity characterisation factors, meaning that the contribution from NMVOC towards human health risks in and around composting facilities could be underestimated. Using individual NMVOCs helps to additionally estimate the impacts of composting on freshwater ecotoxicity and human carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic toxicity potential. If ecotoxicity or toxicity issues are indicated, then LCA should be accompanied by suitable risk assessment measures for the respective life cycle stage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Recycling 2023)
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26 pages, 2281 KiB  
Review
A Comparative Review of Models for All-Solid-State Li-Ion Batteries
by Erkin Yildiz, Mattia Serpelloni, Alberto Salvadori and Luigi Cabras
Batteries 2024, 10(5), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries10050150 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
In recent times, there has been significant enthusiasm for the development of all-solid-state Li-ion batteries. This interest stems from a dual focus on safety—addressing concerns related to toxic and flammable organic liquid electrolytes—and the pursuit of high energy density. While liquid electrolyte batteries [...] Read more.
In recent times, there has been significant enthusiasm for the development of all-solid-state Li-ion batteries. This interest stems from a dual focus on safety—addressing concerns related to toxic and flammable organic liquid electrolytes—and the pursuit of high energy density. While liquid electrolyte batteries currently constitute the vast majority of commercial cells, solid electrolyte batteries show great promise. In parallel with experimental research, computational models clarify several fundamental physics that take place throughout battery operations. Giving up on reviewing a broad screening of the existing literature, we set out to select here a few highly relevant models, emphasizing some fundamental conceptual advancements and offering an in-depth and critical insight into the current state of the art. The papers we selected aim at providing the reader with a tangible and quantitative understanding of how all-solid-state Li-ion batteries operate, including the different mechanisms at play and the mathematical tools required to model the pertinent physics and mechanics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Battery Modelling, Simulation, Management and Application)
17 pages, 3204 KiB  
Article
Enhancing the Content of Hesperidin and Nobiletin in Citrus Wines through Multi-Strain Fermentation
by Shaoqing Zou, Yerui Ouyang, Linfeng Xie, Jiantao Liu, Ya Wang, Yiwen Xiao, Boliang Gao and Du Zhu
Fermentation 2024, 10(5), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation10050238 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This research investigates how different fermentation techniques using non-Saccharomyces yeast (Candida ethanolica Ce, Hanseniaspora guilliermondii Hg, Hanseniaspora thailandica Ht) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Sc) affect the synthesis of hesperidin, nobiletin, and other flavonoid and aromatic substances, which play a vital [...] Read more.
This research investigates how different fermentation techniques using non-Saccharomyces yeast (Candida ethanolica Ce, Hanseniaspora guilliermondii Hg, Hanseniaspora thailandica Ht) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Sc) affect the synthesis of hesperidin, nobiletin, and other flavonoid and aromatic substances, which play a vital role in improving the overall quality of fruit wines due to their various biological properties. The combination of Sc:(Ce.Ht)-1:100 (Ce 0.5 × 107 CFU/mL, Ht 0.5 × 107 CFU/mL, Sc 1 × 105 CFU/mL) yielded the highest hesperidin content at 4.12 ± 0.08 mg/L, followed by the Sc:(Ce.Hg)-1:1 (Ce 0.5 × 107 CFU/mL, Hg 0.5 × 107 CFU/mL, Sc 1 × 107 CFU/mL) combination at 4.08 ± 0.06 mg/L. The highest nobiletin content was achieved by the (Hg.Ht)-10-Sc (Hg 0.5 × 107 CFU/mL, Ht 0.5 × 107 CFU/mL, Sc 1 × 107 CFU/mL) combination, reaching 1.04 ± 0.05 mg/L, which was significantly higher than other multi-strain combinations. Additionally, the hesperidin content produced by the (Hg.Ht)-10-Sc combination was relatively high at 4.04 ± 0.02 mg/L, demonstrating a richness and complexity of aroma superior to that of fermentation with commercial yeast strains alone. The findings suggest that the (Hg.Ht)-10-Sc combination is the most effective multi-strain combination for increasing the levels of nobiletin and hesperidin in citrus wine, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the wine. These experimental results offer a promising approach for enhancing the quality of citrus wines and other fruit wines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fermentation for Food and Beverages)
18 pages, 2899 KiB  
Review
Green and Low-Cost Modified Pisha Sandstone Geopolymer Gel Materials for Ecological Restoration: A Phase Review
by Changming Li, Yubing Fu, Haifeng Cheng, Yaozong Wang, Dongyang Jia and Hui Liu
Gels 2024, 10(5), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10050302 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Pisha sandstone (PS) is a special interbedded rock in the middle reaches of the Yellow River that experiences severe weathering and is loose and broken. Due to severe multiple erosion events, the Pisha sandstone region is called “the most severe water loss and [...] Read more.
Pisha sandstone (PS) is a special interbedded rock in the middle reaches of the Yellow River that experiences severe weathering and is loose and broken. Due to severe multiple erosion events, the Pisha sandstone region is called “the most severe water loss and soil erosion in the world” and “the ecological cancer of the earth”. As a special pozzolanic mineral, PS has the potential to be used as precursors for the synthesis of green and low-carbon geopolymer gel materials and applied in ecological restoration. This paper aims to undertake a phase review of the precursors for geopolymer gel materials. The genesis and distribution, physical and chemical characterization, erosion characteristics, and advances in the ecological restoration of PS are all summarized. Furthermore, current advances in the use of PS for the synthesis of geopolymer gel materials in terms of mechanical properties and durability are discussed. The production of Pisha sandstone geopolymer gels through the binder jetting technique and 3D printing techniques is prospected. Meanwhile, the prospects for the resource application of PS in mine rehabilitation and sustainable ecology are discussed. In the future, multifactor-driven comprehensive measures should be further investigated in order to achieve ecological restoration of the Pisha sandstone region and promote high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin. Full article
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15 pages, 3379 KiB  
Article
Transcriptional Analysis Revealing the Improvement of ε-Poly-L-lysine Production from Intracellular ROS Elevation after Botrytis cinerea Induction
by Chen Zhang, Zhanyang Zhang, Ya Cheng, Ni Ni, Siyu Tong, Wangbao Da, Chunyan Liu, Qiran Diao, Ziyan Chen, Bingyue Xin, Huawei Zeng, Xin Zeng and Dayong Xu
J. Fungi 2024, 10(5), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10050324 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Gray mold, caused by Botrytis cinerea, poses significant threats to various crops, while it can be remarkably inhibited by ε-poly-L-lysine (ε-PL). A previous study found that B. cinerea extracts could stimulate the ε-PL biosynthesis of Streptomyces albulus, while it is unclear [...] Read more.
Gray mold, caused by Botrytis cinerea, poses significant threats to various crops, while it can be remarkably inhibited by ε-poly-L-lysine (ε-PL). A previous study found that B. cinerea extracts could stimulate the ε-PL biosynthesis of Streptomyces albulus, while it is unclear whether the impact of the B. cinerea signal on ε-PL biosynthesis is direct or indirect. This study evaluated the role of elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) in efficient ε-PL biosynthesis after B. cinerea induction, and its underlying mechanism was disclosed with a transcriptome analysis. The microbial call from B. cinerea could arouse ROS elevation in cells, which fall in a proper level that positively influenced the ε-PL biosynthesis. A systematic transcriptional analysis revealed that this proper dose of intracellular ROS could induce a global transcriptional promotion on key pathways in ε-PL biosynthesis, including the embden-meyerhof-parnas pathway, the pentose phosphate pathway, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, the diaminopimelic acid pathway, ε-PL accumulation, cell respiration, and energy synthesis, in which sigma factor HrdD and the transcriptional regulators of TcrA, TetR, FurA, and MerR might be involved. In addition, the intracellular ROS elevation also resulted in a global modification of secondary metabolite biosynthesis, highlighting the secondary signaling role of intracellular ROS in ε-PL production. This work disclosed the transcriptional mechanism of efficient ε-PL production that resulted from an intracellular ROS elevation after B. cinerea elicitors’ induction, which was of great significance in industrial ε-PL production as well as the biocontrol of gray mold disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocontrol of Grapevine Diseases, 2nd Edition)
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13 pages, 2234 KiB  
Article
Assessing Metal Exposure and Leaching from Discarded Cigarette Butts: Environmental Analysis and Integrated Waste Management Approaches
by Muhammad Faisal, Zai-Jin You, Noman Ali Buttar, Muhammad Bilal Idrees, Muhammad Naeem, Shoaib Ali, Basharat Ali, Abeer Hashem and Elsayed Fathi Abd_Allah
Toxics 2024, 12(5), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12050324 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Cigarette butts, often discarded as litter, are considered a common form of waste, containing a variety of pollutants within this hazardous residue. This study, which was designed to assess the environmental release of certain metals from cigarette butts, investigates a variety of scenarios [...] Read more.
Cigarette butts, often discarded as litter, are considered a common form of waste, containing a variety of pollutants within this hazardous residue. This study, which was designed to assess the environmental release of certain metals from cigarette butts, investigates a variety of scenarios under varying climatic conditions. Thus, in order to assess the level of metal contamination, samples of cigarette butts were collected in urban areas from seven popular brands in China, smoked artificially, and examined through graphite furnace atomic absorption (GF-AAS). The findings indicated mean concentrations of 1.77 for Cr, 2.88 for Ni, 12.93 for Cu, 24.25 for Zn, and 1.77 µg/g for Pb in the case of newly smoked butts. The emission of each of the metals increases to 8–10% when cigarette butts remain in the environment for an extended period of time. Furthermore, rainfall can accelerate metal leaching, reaching values of 18–20% compared to the controlled scenario. The worst-case scenario releases 2129.31 kg/year of metals into the environment, while the best-case scenario sees a lower release of 844.97 kg/year. The data reflect variations in metal emissions across different scenarios. There was also a strong correlation between cigarette butts in public spaces and cities. This research highlights the need to educate smokers and increase urban maintenance efficiency to reduce this litter and the metals it leaches into the environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Dust)
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18 pages, 3588 KiB  
Article
Risks to Human Health from Mercury in Gold Mining in the Coastal Region of Ecuador
by Carlos Mestanza-Ramón, Samantha Jiménez-Oyola, Juan Cedeño-Laje, Karla Villamar Marazita, Alex Vinicio Gavilanes Montoya, Danny Daniel Castillo Vizuete, Demmy Mora-Silva, Luis Santiago Carrera Almendáriz, Santiago Logroño-Naranjo, Guido Mazón-Fierro, Renato Herrera-Chávez, Giovanni D’Orio and Salvatore Straface
Toxics 2024, 12(5), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12050323 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) plays a crucial role in global gold production. However, the adoption of poor mining practices or the use of mercury (Hg) in gold recovery processes has generated serious environmental contamination events. The focus of this study is [...] Read more.
Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) plays a crucial role in global gold production. However, the adoption of poor mining practices or the use of mercury (Hg) in gold recovery processes has generated serious environmental contamination events. The focus of this study is assessing the concentration of Hg in surface waters within the coastal region of Ecuador. The results are used to conduct a human health risk assessment applying deterministic and probabilistic methods, specifically targeting groups vulnerable to exposure in affected mining environments. Between April and June 2022, 54 water samples were collected from rivers and streams adjacent to mining areas to determine Hg levels. In the health risk assessment, exposure routes through water ingestion and dermal contact were considered for both adults and children, following the model structures outlined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The results indicate elevated Hg concentrations in two of the five provinces studied, El Oro and Esmeraldas, where at least 88% and 75% of the samples, respectively, exceeded the maximum permissible limit (MPL) set by Ecuadorian regulations for the preservation of aquatic life. Furthermore, in El Oro province, 28% of the samples exceeded the MPL established for drinking water quality. The high concentrations of Hg could be related to illegal mining activity that uses Hg for gold recovery. Regarding the human health risk assessment, risk values above the safe exposure limit were estimated. Children were identified as the most vulnerable receptor. Therefore, there is an urgent need to establish effective regulations that guarantee the protection of river users in potentially contaminated areas. Finally, it is important to continue investigating the contamination caused by human practices in the coastal region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Exposure to Toxic Chemicals and Human Health II)
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17 pages, 1834 KiB  
Article
Pollution Characteristics and Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in the Sediments of the Inflow Rivers of Dianchi Lake, China
by Liwei He, Guangye Chen, Xinze Wang, Jian Shen, Hongjiao Zhang, Yuanyuan Lin, Yang Shen, Feiyan Lang and Chenglei Gong
Toxics 2024, 12(5), 322; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12050322 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
To explore the contamination status and identify the source of the heavy metals in the sediments in the major inflow rivers of Dianchi Lake in China, sediment samples were collected and analyzed. Specifically, the distribution, source, water quality, and health risk assessment of [...] Read more.
To explore the contamination status and identify the source of the heavy metals in the sediments in the major inflow rivers of Dianchi Lake in China, sediment samples were collected and analyzed. Specifically, the distribution, source, water quality, and health risk assessment of the heavy metals were analyzed using correlation analysis (CA), principal component analysis (PCA), the heavy metal contamination factor (Cf), the pollution load index (PLI), and the potential ecological risk index (PERI). Additionally, the chemical fractions were analyzed for mobility characteristics. The results indicate that the average concentration of the heavy metals in the sediment ranked in the descending order of Zn > Cr > Cu > Pb > As > Ni > Cd > Hg, and most of the elements existed in less-mobile forms. The Cfwas in the order of Hg > Zn > Cd > As > Pb > Cr > Ni; the accumulation of Hg, Zn, Cd, and As was obvious. Although the spatial variability of the heavy metal contents was pronounced, the synthetical evaluation index of the PLI and PERI both reached a high pollution level. The PCA and CA results indicate that industrial, transportation, and agricultural emissions were the dominant factors causing heavy metal pollution. These results provide important data for improving water resource management efficiency and heavy metal pollution prevention in Dianchi Lake. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Radioactive Substances)
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14 pages, 2217 KiB  
Article
Establishment of a Simple, Sensitive, and Specific Salmonella Detection Method Based on Recombinase-Aided Amplification Combined with dsDNA-Specific Nucleases
by Changyu Zhou, Yu Zhao, Boyan Guo, Ming Yang, Qiang Xu, Changwei Lei and Hongning Wang
Foods 2024, 13(9), 1380; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13091380 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Salmonella is a common foodborne pathogen that can cause food poisoning, posing a serious threat to human health. Therefore, quickly, sensitively, and accurately detecting Salmonella is crucial to ensuring food safety. For the Salmonella hilA gene, we designed Recombinase-aided amplification (RAA) primers [...] Read more.
Salmonella is a common foodborne pathogen that can cause food poisoning, posing a serious threat to human health. Therefore, quickly, sensitively, and accurately detecting Salmonella is crucial to ensuring food safety. For the Salmonella hilA gene, we designed Recombinase-aided amplification (RAA) primers and dsDNA-specific nuclease (DNase) probes. The ideal primer and probe combination was found when conditions were optimized. Under UV light, a visual Salmonella detection technique (RAA-dsDNase) was developed. Additionally, the RAA-dsDNase was modified to further reduce pollution hazards and simplify operations. One-pot RAA-dsDNase-UV or one-pot RAA-dsDNase-LFD was developed as a Salmonella detection method, using UV or a lateral flow dipstick (LFD) for result observation. Among them, one-pot RAA-dsDNase and one-pot RAA-dsDNase-LFD had detection times of 50 min and 60 min, respectively, for detecting Salmonella genomic DNA. One-pot RAA-dsDNase-UV had a detection limit of 101 copies/μL and 101 CFU/mL, while one-pot RAA-dsDNase-LFD had a sensitivity of 102 copies/μL and 102 CFU/mL. One-pot RAA-dsDNase-UV and one-pot RAA-dsDNase-LFD assays may identify 17 specific Salmonella serovars witho ut causing a cross-reaction with the remaining 8 bacteria, which include E. coli. Furthermore, Salmonella in tissue and milk samples has been reliably detected using both approaches. Overall, the detection method developed in this study can quickly, sensitively, and accurately detect Salmonella, and it is expected to become an important detection tool for the prevention and control of Salmonella in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Microbiology)
8 pages, 663 KiB  
Article
Practical Security of Continuous Variable Quantum Key Distribution Ascribable to Imperfect Modulator for Fiber Channel
by Shengzhe Xu, Zicheng Zhou and Ying Guo
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1356; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091356 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
An amplitude modulator plays an essential role in the implementation of continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD), whereas it may bring about a potential security loophole in the practical system. The high-frequency modulation of the actual transmitter usually results in the high rate of [...] Read more.
An amplitude modulator plays an essential role in the implementation of continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD), whereas it may bring about a potential security loophole in the practical system. The high-frequency modulation of the actual transmitter usually results in the high rate of the system. However, an imperfect amplitude modulator (AM) can give birth to a potential information leakage from the modulation of the transmitter. To reveal a potential security loophole from the high-frequency AM embedded in the transmitter, we demonstrate an influence on the practical security of the system in terms of the secret key rate and maximal transmission distance. The results indicate the risk of this security loophole in the imperfect AM-embedded transmitter. Fortunately, the legal participants can trace back the potential information leakage that has been produced from the imperfect transmitter at high frequencies, which can be used for defeating the leakage attack in CVQKD. We find the limitations of the imperfect AM-embedded transmitter of the high-frequency quantum system, and hence, we have to trade off the practical security and the modulation frequency of the AM-embedded transmitter while considering its implementation in a practical environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Cryptography and Encryption)
17 pages, 1090 KiB  
Article
Ride-Hailing Matching with Uncertain Travel Time: A Novel Interval-Valued Fuzzy Multi-Objective Linear Programming Approach
by Sudradjat Supian, Subiyanto, Tubagus Robbi Megantara and Abdul Talib Bon
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1355; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091355 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study introduces an innovative approach to tackle multi-objective linear programming (MOLP) problems amidst uncertainty, employing interval-valued fuzzy numbers. The method is tailored to resolve ride-hailing matching challenges encompassing uncertain travel times. Findings reveal that managing uncertainty parameters within interval-valued fuzzy MOLP is [...] Read more.
This study introduces an innovative approach to tackle multi-objective linear programming (MOLP) problems amidst uncertainty, employing interval-valued fuzzy numbers. The method is tailored to resolve ride-hailing matching challenges encompassing uncertain travel times. Findings reveal that managing uncertainty parameters within interval-valued fuzzy MOLP is achieved through strategic reformulations, focusing on constraint coefficients, resulting in streamlined linear programming formulations conducive to solution simplicity. The efficacy of the proposed model in efficiently handling ride-hailing matching quandaries is demonstrated. Moreover, this study delves into the prospective applications of the developed method, including its potential for generalization to address non-linear programming (NLP) issues pertinent to the ride-hailing domain. This research advances decision-making processes under uncertainty and paves the way for broader applications beyond ride-hailing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fuzzy Sets, Systems and Decision Making)

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