The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
14 pages, 1492 KiB  
Article
Experimental Study of Plugging Agent Particle Size and Concentration on Temporary Plugging Fracturing in Shale Formation
by Feng Yang, Qin Qian, Mingjing Lu, Wenjun He, Anhai Zhong, Zilin Zhang, Danyang Zhu and Yushi Zou
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061049 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
During the temporary plugging fracturing (TPF) process, the pressure response and pumping behavior significantly differ from those observed during conventional fracturing fluid pumping. Once the temporary plugging agent (TPA) forms a plug, subsequent fracture initiation and propagation become more intricate due to the [...] Read more.
During the temporary plugging fracturing (TPF) process, the pressure response and pumping behavior significantly differ from those observed during conventional fracturing fluid pumping. Once the temporary plugging agent (TPA) forms a plug, subsequent fracture initiation and propagation become more intricate due to the influence of the TPA and early fractures. Factors such as concentration, particle size, and ratio of the TPA notably affect the effectiveness of TPF. This study employs a true triaxial hydraulic fracturing simulation system to conduct TPF experiments with varying particle size combinations and concentrations at both in-fracture and in-stage locations. The impact of different TPA parameters on the plugging effectiveness is assessed by analyzing the morphology of the induced fractures and the characteristics of pressure curves post experiment. Results indicate that combining dfferent particle sizes enhances plugging effectiveness, with a combination of smaller and larger particles exhibiting superior plugging effectiveness, resulting in a pressure increase of over 25.9%. As the concentration of the TPA increases, the plugging fracture pressure rises, accompanied by rapid pressure response and significant plugging effects, leading to more complex fracture morphology. For shale reservoirs, the density of bedding planes (BPs) influences the morphology and width of conventional hydraulic fractures, thereby affecting the effectiveness of subsequent refracturing. Rock samples with a relatively low BP density demonstrate effective plugging initiation both in-fracture and in-stage, facilitating the formation of complex fracture networks. Conversely, specimens with a relatively high BP density exhibit superior plugging effectiveness in-stage compared to in-fracture plugging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Systems)
20 pages, 319 KiB  
Article
Existence and Nonexistence of Positive Solutions for Semilinear Elliptic Equations Involving Hardy–Sobolev Critical Exponents
by Lin-Lin Wang and Yong-Hong Fan
Mathematics 2024, 12(11), 1616; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12111616 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The following semi-linear elliptic equations involving Hardy–Sobolev critical exponents [...] Read more.
The following semi-linear elliptic equations involving Hardy–Sobolev critical exponents Δuμux2=u2*s2xsu+g(x,u),xΩ0,u=0,xΩ have been investigated, where Ω is an open-bounded domain in RNN3, with a smooth boundary Ω, 0Ω,0μ<μ¯:=N222,0s<2, and 2*s=2Ns/N2 is the Hardy–Sobolev critical exponent. This problem comes from the study of standing waves in the anisotropic Schrödinger equation; it is very important in the fields of hydrodynamics, glaciology, quantum field theory, and statistical mechanics. Under some deterministic conditions on g, by a detailed estimation of the extremum function and using mountain pass lemma with PSc conditions, we obtained that: (a) If μμ¯1, and λ<λ1μ, then the above problem has at least a positive solution in H01Ω; (b) If μ¯1<μ<μ¯,then when λ*μ<λ<λ1μ, the above problem has at least a positive solution in H01Ω; (c) if μ¯1<μ<μ¯ and Ω=B(0,R), then the above problem has no positive solution for λλ*μ. These results are extensions of E. Jannelli’s research (g(x,u)=λu). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Difference and Differential Equations)
17 pages, 4998 KiB  
Article
Does Engine Oil Type Affect Fuel Consumption in Passenger Vehicles? A Two-Year Investigation
by Artur Wolak, Michał Wołosz, Kamil Fijorek and Grzegorz Zając
Energies 2024, 17(11), 2458; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112458 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Reducing fuel consumption to decrease CO2 emissions has become a key development factor in the automotive industry. An effective way to decrease fuel consumption is to reduce the influence of various sources of energy loss. One way to increase engine efficiency is [...] Read more.
Reducing fuel consumption to decrease CO2 emissions has become a key development factor in the automotive industry. An effective way to decrease fuel consumption is to reduce the influence of various sources of energy loss. One way to increase engine efficiency is to use low-viscosity engine oils to reduce friction losses in the engine’s tribological systems. The aim of the article was to analyze the relationship between the type of engine oil and fuel consumption in a group of 12 passenger cars. This was a homogenous group of identical cars, equipped with the same engine, operated under very similar conditions. Three groups of engine oils (Revline, Total, Orlen) were tested in vehicles and stressed with comparable workloads. The experiment was conducted over two years (two stages of research). The collected results were presented using graphs and compared using statistical tests, split into two stages of research, with four seasonal temperature groups. The study provides a detailed description of fuel consumption differences taking into account variations in ambient temperature. The analyses were focused on finding answers to two research questions: does the type of engine oil affect the variation in combustion levels, and what is the variability of fuel consumption in different seasons due to the ambient temperature variability? Briefly, in both stages of the study, vehicles using Revline oil attained the highest average fuel consumption throughout the study period. Vehicles using Total oil showed similar results to those using Revline oil, with the difference in fuel consumption not as noticeable during warmer months. Conversely, vehicles using Orlen oil demonstrated the lowest fuel consumption values during colder months, but higher levels during warmer months. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section I1: Fuel)
15 pages, 1091 KiB  
Article
Performance Evaluation of Parallel Graphs Algorithms Utilizing Graphcore IPU
by Paweł Gepner, Bartłomiej Kocot, Marcin Paprzycki, Maria Ganzha, Leonid Moroz and Tomasz Olas
Electronics 2024, 13(11), 2011; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13112011 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Recent years have been characterized by increasing interest in graph computations. This trend can be related to the large number of potential application areas. Moreover, increasing computational capabilities of modern computers allowed turning theory of graph algorithms into explorations of best methods for [...] Read more.
Recent years have been characterized by increasing interest in graph computations. This trend can be related to the large number of potential application areas. Moreover, increasing computational capabilities of modern computers allowed turning theory of graph algorithms into explorations of best methods for their actual realization. These factors, in turn, brought about ideas like creation of a hardware component dedicated to graph computation; i.e., the Graphcore Intelligent Processor Unit (IPU). Interestingly, Graphcore systems are a hardware implementation of the Bulk Synchronous Parallel paradigm, which seemed to be a mostly theoretical concept from the end of last century. In this context, the question that has to be addressed experimentally is as follows: how good are Graphcore systems in comparison with standard systems that can be used to run graph algorithms, i.e., CPUs and GPUs. To provide a partial response to this broad question, in this contribution, PageRank, Single Source Shortest Path and Breadth-First Search algorithms are used to compare the performance of IPU-deployed algorithms to other parallel architectures. Obtained results clearly show that the Graphcore IPU outperforms other devices for the studied heterogeneous algorithms and, currently, provides best-in-class execution time results for a range of graph sizes and densities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances of Cloud, Edge, and Parallel Computing)
18 pages, 6106 KiB  
Article
Preparation of 2D/2D CoAl-LDH/BiO(OH)XI1−X Heterojunction Catalyst with Enhanced Visible–Light Photocatalytic Activity for Organic Pollutants Degradation in Water
by Liying Che and Huanhuan Ji
Water 2024, 16(11), 1467; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16111467 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Hydrotalcite/bismuth solid solution (2D/2D CoAl-LDH/BiO(OH)XI1−X) heterojunction photocatalysts were fabricated through a hydrothermal route. Because of their identical layered structure and interlayer hydroxides, CoAl-LDH(2D) and BiO(OH)XI1−X(2D) form a tightly bonded heterojunction, resulting in efficient light absorption, [...] Read more.
Hydrotalcite/bismuth solid solution (2D/2D CoAl-LDH/BiO(OH)XI1−X) heterojunction photocatalysts were fabricated through a hydrothermal route. Because of their identical layered structure and interlayer hydroxides, CoAl-LDH(2D) and BiO(OH)XI1−X(2D) form a tightly bonded heterojunction, resulting in efficient light absorption, excitation, and carrier migration conversion. At the same time, the large specific surface area and abundant hydroxyl groups of the layered structure make the heterojunction catalyst exhibit excellent performance in the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Under visible light irradiation and in the presence of 1 g/L of the catalyst, 10 mg/L of methyl orange (MO) in water could be completely degraded within 20 min, and the degradation rate of tetracycline (TC) reached 99.23% within 5 min. CoAl-LDH/BiO(OH)XI1−X still maintained good photocatalytic degradation activity of tetracycline after five cycles, and the structure of the catalyst did not change. The reaction mechanism related to the degradation of TC by photocatalytic reactions was explored in detail, and the photoexcitation of the semiconductor heterojunction, as well as the subsequent free radical reaction process and the degradation pathway of TC were clarified. This work provides a promising strategy for the preparation of efficient photocatalytic materials and the development of water purification technology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
15 pages, 5013 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Evaluation of the Physicochemical Attributes, Antioxidant Capacity, and pH-Responsive Behavior of Starch Films Enhanced by Laver Incorporation
by Ying Chen, Zhu Zhu, Yunyue Ye, Qi Li, Tao Yang, Chengran Guan and Fengsong Liu
Foods 2024, 13(11), 1600; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13111600 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Herein, a new starch film incorporating laver was developed to address issues related to inadequate water resistance and suboptimal preservation quality in food packaging. The integration of laver into starch film formulations offers a compelling avenue for creating biodegradable, active, and smart food [...] Read more.
Herein, a new starch film incorporating laver was developed to address issues related to inadequate water resistance and suboptimal preservation quality in food packaging. The integration of laver into starch film formulations offers a compelling avenue for creating biodegradable, active, and smart food packaging. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis revealed that the starch film with a laver concentration of 70% exhibited a uniformly flat microstructure, as expected. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of intermolecular interactions and hydrogen bonding between the starch and laver. Viscoelastic tests demonstrated the superior film-forming performance of the starch/laver composite films. Moreover, it was found that the most favorable concentration of incorporated laver was 10%. Specifically, the S7-3 film emerged as a promising candidate for food packaging applications, boasting the highest contact angle (CA) value of 114.98 ± 1.28°, the lowest water solubility (WS) value of 15.38%, and a reduced water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) value of 2.52 g/m2 × h. Additionally, the S3-7 film displayed an extraordinary tensile strength of 32.47 MPa, an elongation at break of 19.04%, and a Young’s modulus of 606.83 MPa. Furthermore, the starch/laver composite films exhibited outstanding UV-blocking capabilities, exceptional pH-responsive behavior, and significant antioxidant activity, underscoring their potential for packaging applications with laver integration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active Packaging in Food Storage: From Development to Utilization)
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12 pages, 3199 KiB  
Article
Flow-Independent Thermal Conductivity and Volumetric Heat Capacity Measurement of Pure Gases and Binary Gas Mixtures Using a Single Heated Wire
by Shirin Azadi Kenari, Remco J. Wiegerink, Remco G. P. Sanders and Joost C. Lötters
Micromachines 2024, 15(6), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15060671 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Among the different techniques for monitoring the flow rate of various fluids, thermal flow sensors stand out for their straightforward measurement technique. However, the main drawback of these types of sensors is their dependency on the thermal properties of the medium, i.e., thermal [...] Read more.
Among the different techniques for monitoring the flow rate of various fluids, thermal flow sensors stand out for their straightforward measurement technique. However, the main drawback of these types of sensors is their dependency on the thermal properties of the medium, i.e., thermal conductivity (k), and volumetric heat capacity (ρcp). They require calibration whenever the fluid in the system changes. In this paper, we present a single hot wire suspended above a V-groove cavity that is used to measure k and ρcp through DC and AC excitation for both pure gases and binary gas mixtures, respectively. The unique characteristic of the proposed sensor is its independence of the flow velocity, which makes it possible to detect the medium properties while the fluid flows over the sensor chip. The measured error due to fluctuations in flow velocity is less than ±0.5% for all test gases except for He, where it is ±6% due to the limitations of the measurement setup. The working principle and measurement results are discussed. Full article
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23 pages, 503 KiB  
Systematic Review
Pneumococcal and Influenza Vaccination Coverage in Patients with Heart Failure: A Systematic Review
by Dimitrios Papagiannis, Christos Kourek, Alexandros Briasoulis, Evangelos C. Fradelos, Evangelia D. Papagianni, Ilias Papadimopoulos, Grigorios Giamouzis, John Skoularigis and Andrew Xanthopoulos
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3029; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113029 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Background/Objectives: As heart failure (HF) patients face increased vulnerability to respiratory infections, optimizing pneumococcal and influenza vaccination coverage becomes pivotal for mitigating additional health risks and reducing hospitalizations, morbidity, and mortality rates within this population. In this specific subpopulation of patients, vaccination coverage [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: As heart failure (HF) patients face increased vulnerability to respiratory infections, optimizing pneumococcal and influenza vaccination coverage becomes pivotal for mitigating additional health risks and reducing hospitalizations, morbidity, and mortality rates within this population. In this specific subpopulation of patients, vaccination coverage for pneumococcal and influenza holds heightened significance compared to other vaccines due to their susceptibility to respiratory infections, which can exacerbate existing cardiovascular conditions and lead to severe complications or even death. However, despite the recognized benefits, vaccination coverage among HF patients remains below expectations. The aim of the present systematic review was to assess the vaccination coverage for influenza and pneumococcus in HF patients from 2005 to 2023 and the vaccination’s effects on survival and hospitalizations. Methods: The authors developed the protocol of the review in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, and the search was performed in databases including PubMed and Scopus. After the initial search, 851 studies were found in PubMed Library and 1961 in Scopus (total of 2812 studies). Results: After the initial evaluation, 23 publications were finally included in the analysis. The total study population consisted of 6,093,497 participants. Regarding the influenza vaccine, vaccination coverage ranged from low rates of 2.5% to very high rates of 97%, while the respective pneumococcal vaccination coverage ranged from 20% to 84.6%. Most studies demonstrated a beneficial effect of vaccination on survival and hospitalizations. Conclusions: The present systematic review study showed a wide variety of vaccination coverage among patients with heart failure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cardiomyopathy)
8 pages, 7266 KiB  
Case Report
Zero-Fluoroscopy Catheter Ablation of Right Appendage Focal Atrial Tachycardia in a Pregnant Woman
by Federica Troisi, Noemi Valenti, Federico Quadrini, Nicola Vitulano, Antonio Di Monaco, Imma Romanazzi, Rosa Caruso, Rocco Orfino and Massimo Grimaldi
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(3), 946-953; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14030075 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Arrhythmias in pregnancy are complex to manage due to the teratogenic effects of many antiarrhythmic drugs and the common use of ionizing radiation during catheter ablation procedures. Furthermore, pregnant women are extremely vulnerable and difficult to treat because of the progressive physical [...] Read more.
Background: Arrhythmias in pregnancy are complex to manage due to the teratogenic effects of many antiarrhythmic drugs and the common use of ionizing radiation during catheter ablation procedures. Furthermore, pregnant women are extremely vulnerable and difficult to treat because of the progressive physical and hormonal changes that occur during the nine months of pregnancy. Case Presentation: In this case report, we describe a complex clinical case of a 34-year-old pregnant woman who was affected by an incessant right atrial tachycardia, with signs and symptoms of initial hemodynamic instability. This tachycardia was refractory to antiarrhythmic drugs, so a zero-fluoroscopy ablation was performed. The first procedure was complicated by cardiac tamponade, quickly resolved without further complications for the mother or the fetus. In the following days, a deep venous thrombosis occurred at the femoral venous access. After a few days, the patient underwent a second procedure that was successful and resulted in the restoration of a sinus rhythm. Conclusions: The management of this clinical case was complex both from a procedural and a clinical (cardiological and gynecological) point of view. Finally, the integration of the various skills led to an excellent result. Full article
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15 pages, 355 KiB  
Article
Spirituality, Religiosity, and Mental Health in Patients with Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies: A Brazilian Multicentric Case–Control Study
by Jucier Gonçalves Júnior, Alexandre Moura dos Santos, Romão Augusto Alves Filgueira Sampaio, Thalita do Nascimento Silva, Giovanna Martines, Daniel Brito de Araújo, Estelita Lima Cândido and Samuel Katsuyuki Shinjo
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060653 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
No published studies have investigated the correlation between religiosity, spirituality, mental health, and idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) or systemic autoimmune myopathy. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association between religiosity/spirituality, sociodemographic factors, and the mental health of IIM patients. This is a multicenter [...] Read more.
No published studies have investigated the correlation between religiosity, spirituality, mental health, and idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) or systemic autoimmune myopathy. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association between religiosity/spirituality, sociodemographic factors, and the mental health of IIM patients. This is a multicenter case–control study that included 151 patients with IIMs and 95 individuals without autoimmune diseases (controls), held between August 2022 and April 2023. This study used a semi-structured questionnaire that included sociodemographic information and the juxtaposition of the following questionnaires: the Attitudes Related to Spirituality Scale (ARES); the Duke University Religion Index (DUKE), which is composed of the organizational religious affiliation (ORA), non-organizational religious affiliation (NORA), and intrinsic religiosity (IR) domains; and the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12). Data were analyzed using Epi Info software 7.2.5 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA). A comparison between the mean values of the ARES, DUKE, and GHQ-12 scales was made using the Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests. A logistic regression test was used with the variables whose difference was statistically significant in the univariate analysis. Correlation analysis was performed using the Spearman rho coefficient. A higher prevalence of evangelicals and a lower prevalence of Catholics (p < 0.050) were seen in the IIM group compared to controls. Positive association was demonstrated between IIMs and the pardo ethnicity (OR = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.20–4.25, p = 0.011), highest ORA (OR = 2.81, 95% CI = 1.53–5.15, p < 0.001), NORA (OR = 3.99, 95% CI = 1.94–8·18, p < 0.001), IR (OR = 5.27, 95% CI = 2.32–11.97, p < 0.001), and ARES values (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.04–1.13, p < 0.001). Mental health levels were compared between the groups (p > 0.999). Therefore, higher levels of religiosity and spirituality were observed in the IIM group than in the control group, but there was a similar distribution of mental health levels. The following can be cited as advantages of the present study: (i) the large sample for a rare disease with the presence of a control group; (ii) the multicenter characteristic with participation from three regions of Brazil; (iii) being the first study to map aspects of religiosity, spirituality, and mental health in IIMs. Full article
12 pages, 629 KiB  
Article
Novel Synthesis of Nanocalcite from Phosphogypsum and Cesium Carbonate: Control and Optimization of Particle Size
by Meryem Bensemlali, Badreddine Hatimi, Asmae Sanad, Layla El Gaini, Meryeme Joudi, Najoua Labjar, Hamid Nasrellah, Abdellatif Aarfane and Mina Bakasse
Eng 2024, 5(2), 932-943; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng5020050 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigates a controlled synthesis and particle size optimization of nanocalcite particles using phosphogypsum, a waste byproduct from the phosphate fertilizer industry, and cesium carbonate (Cs2CO3), a common carbonate source. The effects of synthesis parameters, including temperature and [...] Read more.
This study investigates a controlled synthesis and particle size optimization of nanocalcite particles using phosphogypsum, a waste byproduct from the phosphate fertilizer industry, and cesium carbonate (Cs2CO3), a common carbonate source. The effects of synthesis parameters, including temperature and pH, on the size, morphology, and crystallinity of the synthesized nanocalcite particles were systematically examined. The optimized synthesis conditions for obtaining nanocalcite particles with desired properties are discussed. The synthesized nanocalcite particles were characterized using various techniques, such as XRD, FTIR, and SEM, to analyze their crystal structure, morphology, and elemental composition. Particle sizes were determined using the Debye–Scherrer method, and accordingly, nanometric sizes were achieved. The potential applications of the synthesized nanocalcite particles in cementitious materials, agriculture, and drug delivery are highlighted. This research provides valuable insights into the sustainable synthesis and size optimization of nanocalcite particles from phosphogypsum and Cs2CO3 at a controlled temperature and pH. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Engineering)
17 pages, 815 KiB  
Article
Effects of a Protocol Combining a Non-Irritating Shampoo and an Adelmidrol-Based Adsorbent Mousse on Seborrhoea and Other Signs and Symptoms Secondary to Canine Atopic Dermatitis: A Multicenter, Open-Label Uncontrolled Clinical Trial
by Chiara Noli, Giada Morelli, Maria Federica della Valle, Carlo Schievano and Skinalia Clinical Research Group
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(6), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11060229 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of a gentle shampoo and a mousse containing Adelmidrol, tapioca starch and a non-prescription antimicrobial complex on seborrhoea and other clinical signs secondary to canine atopic dermatitis (cAD). Forty-six dogs with cAD-associated seborrhoea and/or pruritus [...] Read more.
The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of a gentle shampoo and a mousse containing Adelmidrol, tapioca starch and a non-prescription antimicrobial complex on seborrhoea and other clinical signs secondary to canine atopic dermatitis (cAD). Forty-six dogs with cAD-associated seborrhoea and/or pruritus > 4 cm on the pruritus visual analogue scale (P-VAS) and/or bacterial/Malassezia overgrowth were enrolled. The mousse was applied twice daily, and dogs were evaluated at days (D)0, 7, 14 and optionally 28, by means of a skin seborrheic index (SSI), P-VAS, cAD lesion index (CADLI), and a semiquantitative cytological score. The mean SSI value improved during the first two weeks (4.1 ± 0.37 to 1.9 ± 0.30; p < 0.0001). The mean P-VAS score (cm) decreased from 6.6 ± 0.19 at D0 to 3.8 ± 0.31 at D14 (p < 0.0001). The mean CADLI score dropped from 13.7 ± 1.24 to 8.5 ± 1.14 at D14 (p < 0.001). The cytological score for bacteria and Malassezia decreased from 3.2 ± 0.10 and 3.2 ± 0.11, respectively, to 1.2 ± 0.19 and 1.2 ± 0.24 (p < 0.0001). All the investigated signs further improved at D28. Altogether, these observations suggest that the tested protocol might be useful in managing cAD-associated signs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Veterinary Dermatology: Challenges and Advances)
20 pages, 1422 KiB  
Article
Nature-Based Solutions and Climate Resilience: A Bibliographic Perspective through Science Mapping Analysis
by Farnoosh Vazin, Daniel W. M. Chan, Toktam Hanaee and Hadi Sarvari
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1492; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061492 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Currently, urban areas are confronting considerable challenges stemming from climate change. These challenges possess the potential to have profound implications for the well-being of residents, their means of making a living, and their own assets. Consequently, it is imperative to identify effective solutions [...] Read more.
Currently, urban areas are confronting considerable challenges stemming from climate change. These challenges possess the potential to have profound implications for the well-being of residents, their means of making a living, and their own assets. Consequently, it is imperative to identify effective solutions that mitigate these effects on the urban environment. Nature-based solutions (NBSs), involving the utilization of natural resources and ecosystem services to alleviate the effects of climate change, have the potential of enhancing our capacity to develop cities that are more resistant to these challenges. To this end, this paper aims to extract some bibliographic data from available research articles on NBSs and climate resilience sought from the common search engines of Scopus, Web of Science, and Lens Base, and then the RStudio version 2022.12.00+353, VoSviewer version 1.6.20, and Biblioshiny-Bibliometrics version 2017 software tools were adopted to collate and analyze the literature data through science mapping analysis. In doing so, it was advocated that these two topics have not been extensively studied in their relationship to each other and that there is a large extent of existing knowledge gaps, the filling of which can foster the development of these ideas and thus help develop our cities in combating against climate change. Exploring the effectiveness of NBSs in boosting climate resilience is a critical research gap. More empirical studies are envisaged to assess the scalability and transferability of those effective NBSs in various regions or countries. Another research gap exists in comprehending the long-term effects on ecosystem services and community welfare. Research on socio-economic advantages, trade-offs, and unintended outcomes is essential for making well-informed decisions when applying various NBSs worldwide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Building Design and Construction for a Sustainable Future)
33 pages, 5433 KiB  
Article
Financing and Management Strategies for Expanding Green Development Projects: A Case Study of Energy Corporation in China’s Renewable Energy Sector Using Machine Learning (ML) Modeling
by Chen Han and Lu Yang
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4338; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114338 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigates potential financing and management strategies that the Energy Corporation, a Chinese renewable energy company, could adopt in order to expand its green development projects. While China has made significant advancements in renewable energy, its heavy reliance on fossil fuels necessitates [...] Read more.
This study investigates potential financing and management strategies that the Energy Corporation, a Chinese renewable energy company, could adopt in order to expand its green development projects. While China has made significant advancements in renewable energy, its heavy reliance on fossil fuels necessitates a shift towards a more sustainable energy system. To analyze the factors driving and impeding sustainability, this article provides an overview of China’s energy sector and policies. Through case studies of the Energy Corporation and other prominent renewable energy companies, the study showcases a range of demonstration projects, financing models, and management technologies that have the potential to accelerate the growth of sustainable initiatives. Recommendations from expert interviews are also provided, covering areas such as optimizing investment, monitoring distributed assets, and balancing social and environmental impacts. The results show that the Energy Corporation can effectively develop wind, solar, and energy efficiency projects nationwide by leveraging partnerships, utilizing green bonds, employing big data platforms, and engaging stakeholders, while also setting sustainability benchmarks. With a strategic approach, Energy Corporation aims to invest USD 1 billion over the next five years, targeting a renewable energy capacity of 5000 MW and a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions. Achieving these goals would position Chinese companies as global leaders in the transition to renewable energy. The study also utilized an artificial neural network (ANN) to analyze the impact of increasing green jobs and renewable energy capacities on CO2 emission reduction and economic growth. The results indicate that green jobs have a more significant effect on reducing CO2 emissions compared to renewable energy capacities. When green jobs increased while energy capacities remained constant, substantial CO2 reductions were observed, but the economic growth was only 1%. However, when there was a moderate increase in jobs alongside a four-fold increase in renewable energy capacities, economic growth reached 4%. The neural network’s prediction errors were deemed acceptable based on linear regression analysis and experimental results. Full article
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15 pages, 580 KiB  
Article
eDNA Metabarcoding Reveals the Species–Area Relationship of Amphibians on the Zhoushan Archipelago
by Wenhao Li, Xianglei Hou, Yunlong Zhu, Jiacong Du, Chunxia Xu, Jingyuan Yang and Yiming Li
Animals 2024, 14(11), 1519; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111519 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The species–area relationship is important for understanding species diversity patterns at spatial scales, but few studies have examined the relationship using environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques. We investigated amphibian diversity on 21 islands of the Zhoushan Archipelago and nearby mainland areas in China using [...] Read more.
The species–area relationship is important for understanding species diversity patterns at spatial scales, but few studies have examined the relationship using environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques. We investigated amphibian diversity on 21 islands of the Zhoushan Archipelago and nearby mainland areas in China using the combination of eDNA metabarcoding and the traditional line transect method (TLTM) and identified the species–area relationship for amphibians on the islands. The mean detection probability of eDNA is 0.54, while the mean detection probability of TLTM is 0.24. The eDNA metabarcoding detected eight amphibian species on the islands and nine species in the mainland areas, compared with seven species on the islands and nine species in the mainland areas that were identified by TLTM. Amphibian richness on the islands increased with island area and habitat diversity. The species–area relationship for amphibians in the archipelago was formulated as the power function (S = 0.47A0.21) or exponential function (S = 2.59 + 2.41 (logA)). Our results suggested that eDNA metabarcoding is more sensitive for the detection of amphibian species. The combined use of eDNA metabarcoding and the traditional line transect method may optimize the survey results for amphibians. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolution, Diversity, and Conservation of Herpetofauna)
21 pages, 1756 KiB  
Article
Numerical Study on the Fracturing of Deep Rock Masses by Blasting Based on the Material Point Method
by Hu Xiao, Meng Wang, Weiting Gao, Ming Zou, Yuntao Wang and Jinshan Sun
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1048; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061048 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Blasting is a prevalent technique in deep rock excavation, with the state of rock fragmentation under high in-situ stress conditions being distinct from that under low in-situ stress conditions. A new material point method framework utilizing the generalized interpolated material point and convective [...] Read more.
Blasting is a prevalent technique in deep rock excavation, with the state of rock fragmentation under high in-situ stress conditions being distinct from that under low in-situ stress conditions. A new material point method framework utilizing the generalized interpolated material point and convective particle domain interpolation functions was implemented to simulate the single-hole blasting process, analyze the stress distribution around the blasting hole, and elucidate the mechanism of how ground stress influences the expansion of blasting cracks through the interaction with the blasting load. In addition, the dynamic relaxation method realizes the stress’s initialization. It was concluded that the in-situ stress can increase the compressive stress induced by blasting load, whereas it decreases the caused tensile stress. With the increase in the ground stress, the scale of the cracks decreases. Under the non-isobaric condition, the blast-induced cracks preferentially expand along the high stress with the increase in the stress difference between the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, and the blast-induced cracks are suppressed to the greatest extent in the direction of the minimum ground stress. Full article
21 pages, 7414 KiB  
Article
Integrated Extended Kalman Filter and Deep Learning Platform for Electric Vehicle Battery Health Prediction
by David Chunhu Li, Javio Renja Felix, Yi-Ling Chin, Leonard Valentino Jusuf and Louis Jason Susanto
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4354; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114354 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) rises globally, ensuring the safety and reliability of EV battery systems becomes paramount. Accurately predicting the state of health (SoH) and state of charge (SoC) of EV batteries is crucial for maintaining their safe and consistent [...] Read more.
As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) rises globally, ensuring the safety and reliability of EV battery systems becomes paramount. Accurately predicting the state of health (SoH) and state of charge (SoC) of EV batteries is crucial for maintaining their safe and consistent operation. This paper introduces a novel approach leveraging deep learning methodologies to predict battery SoH, focusing on implementing a system prototype for real-world applications. The proposed system integrates an extended Kalman filter (EKF) with a deep learning framework, forming a system prototype known as FELL, aimed at EV battery diagnosis and prediction. We devise an algorithm utilizing the EKF to estimate the SoH of the battery. We present a detailed overview of the system architecture and implementation, showcasing its predictive capabilities. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the system in accurately estimating battery SoH with notable improvements in prediction accuracy. Additionally, the FELL system provides users with real-time predictions and comparative analysis across multiple prediction models, offering valuable insights for EV battery management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computing and Artificial Intelligence)
16 pages, 1089 KiB  
Article
Speech Emotion Recognition Based on Temporal-Spatial Learnable Graph Convolutional Neural Network
by Jingjie Yan, Haihua Li, Fengfeng Xu, Xiaoyang Zhou, Ying Liu and Yuan Yang
Electronics 2024, 13(11), 2010; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13112010 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The Graph Convolutional Neural Networks (GCN) method has shown excellent performance in the field of deep learning, and using graphs to represent speech data is a computationally efficient and scalable approach. In order to enhance the adequacy of graph neural networks in extracting [...] Read more.
The Graph Convolutional Neural Networks (GCN) method has shown excellent performance in the field of deep learning, and using graphs to represent speech data is a computationally efficient and scalable approach. In order to enhance the adequacy of graph neural networks in extracting speech emotional features, this paper proposes a Temporal-Spatial Learnable Graph Convolutional Neural Network (TLGCNN) for speech emotion recognition. TLGCNN firstly utilizes the Open-SMILE toolkit to extract frame-level speech emotion features. Then, a bidirectional long short-term memory (Bi LSTM) network is used to process the long-term dependencies of speech features which can further extract deep frame-level emotion features. The extracted frame-level emotion features are then input into subsequent network through two pathways. Finally, one pathway constructs the extracted frame-level deep emotion feature vectors into a graph structure applying an adaptive adjacency matrix to catch latent spatial connections, while the other pathway concatenates emotion feature vectors with graph-level embedding obtained from learnable graph convolutional neural network for prediction and classification. Through these two pathways, TLGCNN can simultaneously obtain temporal speech emotional information through Bi-LSTM and spatial speech emotional information through Learnable Graph Convolutional Neural (LGCN) network. Experimental results demonstrate that this method achieves weighted accuracy of 66.82% and 58.35% on the IEMOCAP and MSP-IMPROV databases, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied AI in Emotion Recognition)
4 pages, 290 KiB  
Editorial
Special Issue “Cancer Biomarker Research and Personalized Medicine 2.0”
by James Meehan and Mark Gray
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060549 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
In 2022, there was an estimated incidence of 20 million cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths from cancer worldwide [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Biomarker Research and Personalized Medicine 2.0)
13 pages, 590 KiB  
Review
Prg4-Expressing Chondroprogenitor Cells in the Superficial Zone of Articular Cartilage
by Nadezda Ignatyeva, Nikita Gavrilov, Peter S. Timashev and Ekaterina V. Medvedeva
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 5605; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25115605 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Joint-resident chondrogenic precursor cells have become a significant therapeutic option due to the lack of regenerative capacity in articular cartilage. Progenitor cells are located in the superficial zone of the articular cartilage, producing lubricin/Prg4 to decrease friction of cartilage surfaces during joint movement. [...] Read more.
Joint-resident chondrogenic precursor cells have become a significant therapeutic option due to the lack of regenerative capacity in articular cartilage. Progenitor cells are located in the superficial zone of the articular cartilage, producing lubricin/Prg4 to decrease friction of cartilage surfaces during joint movement. Prg4-positive progenitors are crucial in maintaining the joint’s structure and functionality. The disappearance of progenitor cells leads to changes in articular hyaline cartilage over time, subchondral bone abnormalities, and the formation of ectopic ossification. Genetic labeling cell technology has been the main tool used to characterize Prg4-expressing progenitor cells of articular cartilage in vivo through drug injection at different time points. This technology allows for the determination of the origin of progenitor cells and the tracking of their progeny during joint development and cartilage damage. We endeavored to highlight the currently known information about the Prg4-producing cell population in the joint to underline the significance of the role of these cells in the development of articular cartilage and its homeostasis. This review focuses on superficial progenitors in the joint, how they contribute to postnatal articular cartilage formation, their capacity for regeneration, and the consequences of Prg4 deficiency in these cells. We have accumulated information about the Prg4+ cell population of articular cartilage obtained through various elegantly designed experiments using transgenic technologies to identify potential opportunities for further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Aspects of Cartilage Biology)
16 pages, 3316 KiB  
Article
Activation of CD14+ Monocytes via the IFN-γ Signaling Pathway Is Associated with Immune-Related Adverse Events in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Receiving PD-1 Inhibition Combination Therapy
by Yaoru Song, Shida Pan, Jiahe Tian, Yingying Yu, Siyu Wang, Qin Qiu, Yingjuan Shen, Luo Yang, Xiaomeng Liu, Junqing Luan, Yilin Wang, Jianing Wang, Xing Fan, Fanping Meng and Fu-Sheng Wang
Biomedicines 2024, 12(6), 1140; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12061140 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are a series of unique organ-specific inflammatory toxicities observed in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing PD-1 inhibition combination therapy. The specific underlying mechanisms remain unclear. (2) Methods: We recruited 71 patients with HCC undergoing PD-1 inhibition [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are a series of unique organ-specific inflammatory toxicities observed in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing PD-1 inhibition combination therapy. The specific underlying mechanisms remain unclear. (2) Methods: We recruited 71 patients with HCC undergoing PD-1 inhibition combination therapy. These patients were then divided into two groups based on irAE occurrence: 34 had irAEs and 37 did not. Using Olink proteomics, we analyzed the aberrant inflammation-related proteins (IRPs) in these patient groups. For single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis, we collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from two representative patients at the pretreatment, irAE occurrence, and resolution stages. (3) Results: Our study revealed distinct plasma protein signatures in HCC patients experiencing irAEs after PD-1 inhibition combination therapy. We clarified the relationship between monocyte activation and irAEs, identified a strongly associated CD14-MC-CCL3 monocyte subset, and explored the role of the IFN-γ signaling pathway in monocyte activation during irAEs. (4) Conclusions: The activation of monocytes induced by the IFN-γ signaling pathway is an important mechanism underlying the occurrence of irAEs in HCC patients receiving PD-1 inhibition combination therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Immunotherapy)
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8 pages, 825 KiB  
Article
Perinatal Outcomes of Diet Therapy in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Diagnosed before 24 Gestational Weeks
by Yoshifumi Kasuga, Marina Takahashi, Kaoru Kajikawa, Keisuke Akita, Toshimitsu Otani, Satoru Ikenoue and Mamoru Tanaka
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1553; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111553 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
To evaluate perinatal outcomes and risk factors for large for gestational age (LGA; birth weight over 90 percentile) in gestational diabetes diagnosed before 24 gestational weeks and treated with diet therapy alone until delivery (Diet Early gestational diabetes mellitus (Diet Early GDM)), we [...] Read more.
To evaluate perinatal outcomes and risk factors for large for gestational age (LGA; birth weight over 90 percentile) in gestational diabetes diagnosed before 24 gestational weeks and treated with diet therapy alone until delivery (Diet Early gestational diabetes mellitus (Diet Early GDM)), we assessed the maternal characteristics and perinatal outcomes of patients with early GDM (n = 309) and normal glucose tolerance (NGT; n = 309) at Keio University Hospital. The gestational weight gain (GWG) expected at 40 weeks was significantly lower in the Diet Early GDM group than in the NGT group. The Diet Early GDM group exhibited a significantly lower incidence of low birth weight (<2500 g) and higher Apgar score at 5 min than the NGT group. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the pre-pregnancy body mass index and GWG expected at 40 weeks were significantly associated with LGA for Diet Early GDM. No differences were observed in random plasma glucose levels in the first trimester, 75 g oral glucose tolerance test values, and initial increase or subsequent decrease between the two groups. Dietary early GDM did not exhibit a worse prognosis than NGT. To prevent LGA, it might be important to control maternal body weight not only during pregnancy but also before conception. Full article
16 pages, 659 KiB  
Article
Pollutant Emissions and Heavy Metal Migration in Co-Combustion of Sewage Sludge and Coal
by Chunyu Liu, Changtao Yue and Yue Ma
Energies 2024, 17(11), 2457; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112457 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The treatment of sewage sludge has become a global concern. Large amounts of sewage sludge can be disposed of by burning coal-mixed sludge. Thermogravimetric analysis and lab-scale combustion experiments in a drop tube furnace were utilized to study the combustion characteristics, pollutant emissions, [...] Read more.
The treatment of sewage sludge has become a global concern. Large amounts of sewage sludge can be disposed of by burning coal-mixed sludge. Thermogravimetric analysis and lab-scale combustion experiments in a drop tube furnace were utilized to study the combustion characteristics, pollutant emissions, and heavy metal migration during the co-combustion of coal and sewage sludge. The results showed that the blended fuels with a sewage sludge content less than 10 weight percent exhibited coal-like combustion characteristics. Additionally, the additional sewage sludge favored the ignition performance of blended fuels. When sewage sludge was added, the SO2 emissions rose to 76 mg/Nm3 under the 10% sludge condition—nearly three times higher than that of coal alone. While NOx emissions stayed mostly unchanged, HCl and HF emissions were very low. Meanwhile, Cr, Cu, and Ni migrated to the bottom ash, and their concentrations were all reduced with an increase in sewage sludge. Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Hg migrated to the flue gas, mostly in the form of gaseous components. The results provide crucial information in the co-combustion of sewage sludge and coal, with implications in the development and improvement of large-scale, harmless, and resource-recovering techniques for waste sludge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section B: Energy and Environment)

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