The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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14 pages, 3357 KiB  
Article
Music and Religion in the Spiritual World of the Hungarian Aristocracy: The Case of Count Anton Erdődy (1714–1769)
by Jana Kalinayová-Bartová and Eva Szórádová
Religions 2024, 15(5), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15050584 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This study deals with the forms and expressions of the Christian piety of the Hungarian aristocracy in the early modern period on the example of Anton Erdődy (1714–1769), a representative of one of the most influential and most ancient Hungarian–Croatian noble families. The [...] Read more.
This study deals with the forms and expressions of the Christian piety of the Hungarian aristocracy in the early modern period on the example of Anton Erdődy (1714–1769), a representative of one of the most influential and most ancient Hungarian–Croatian noble families. The personal piety of this socially high-ranking aristocrat was shaped by familial, social, and spiritual traditions, which determined the nature of his artistic patronage. The unique Baroque organ preserved in the chapel of his no longer existing mansion in Trenčianske Bohuslavice, Slovakia (former Bohuslavice, Upper Hungary) is a magnificent manifestation of this patronage. The reconstruction of Anton Erdődy’s idea of the spiritual world and of his piety enables us to formulate a hypothesis that the atypical architectural and structural design of this organ did not result only from the aesthetic requirements of its commissioner, but also had a theological foundation and religious essence in addition to its visual effect. This study is the result of extensive heuristic research and analysis of sources and extant artefacts using the methods of music historiography. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soundscapes of Religion)
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31 pages, 1326 KiB  
Review
Nanostructured Metal Oxide-Based Electrochemical Biosensors in Medical Diagnosis
by Gulsu Keles, Elif Sifa Ataman, Sueda Betul Taskin, İlker Polatoglu and Sevinc Kurbanoglu
Biosensors 2024, 14(5), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14050238 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Nanostructured metal oxides (NMOs) provide electrical properties such as high surface−to−volume ratio, reaction activity, and good adsorption strength. Furthermore, they serve as a conductive substrate for the immobilization of biomolecules, exhibiting notable biological activity. Capitalizing on these characteristics, they find utility in the [...] Read more.
Nanostructured metal oxides (NMOs) provide electrical properties such as high surface−to−volume ratio, reaction activity, and good adsorption strength. Furthermore, they serve as a conductive substrate for the immobilization of biomolecules, exhibiting notable biological activity. Capitalizing on these characteristics, they find utility in the development of various electrochemical biosensing devices, elevating the sensitivity and selectivity of such diagnostic platforms. In this review, different types of NMOs, including zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO2), iron (II, III) oxide (Fe3O4), nickel oxide (NiO), and copper oxide (CuO); their synthesis methods; and how they can be integrated into biosensors used for medical diagnosis are examined. It also includes a detailed table for the last 10 years covering the morphologies, analysis techniques, analytes, and analytical performances of electrochemical biosensors developed for medical diagnosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Enzyme-Based Biosensors)
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14 pages, 517 KiB  
Review
Long Non-Coding RNAs in Sjögren’s Disease
by Ondřej Pastva and Kerstin Klein
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5162; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105162 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Sjögren’s disease (SjD) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease characterized by severe dryness of mucosal surfaces, particularly the mouth and eyes; fatigue; and chronic pain. Chronic inflammation of the salivary and lacrimal glands, auto-antibody formation, and extra-glandular manifestations occur in subsets of patients with [...] Read more.
Sjögren’s disease (SjD) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease characterized by severe dryness of mucosal surfaces, particularly the mouth and eyes; fatigue; and chronic pain. Chronic inflammation of the salivary and lacrimal glands, auto-antibody formation, and extra-glandular manifestations occur in subsets of patients with SjD. An aberrant expression of long, non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been described in many autoimmune diseases, including SjD. Here, we review the current literature on lncRNAs in SjD and their role in regulating X chromosome inactivation, immune modulatory functions, and their potential as biomarkers. Full article
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17 pages, 1963 KiB  
Article
Hazard Assessment of Debris Flow: A Case Study of the Huiyazi Debris Flow
by Yuntao Guo, Zhen Feng, Lichao Wang, Yifan Tian and Liang Chen
Water 2024, 16(10), 1349; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101349 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The Bailong River Basin is situated at the northeastern edge of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the western transition zone of the Loess Plateau, characterized by steep terrain and heavy rainfall. This area experiences frequent occurrences of debris flows, posing serious threats to towns [...] Read more.
The Bailong River Basin is situated at the northeastern edge of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the western transition zone of the Loess Plateau, characterized by steep terrain and heavy rainfall. This area experiences frequent occurrences of debris flows, posing serious threats to towns and construction projects. Focusing on the Huaiyazigou debris flow in the Bailong River Basin, numerical simulations of debris flow processes were conducted using Digital Surface Model (DSM) data with a resolution of 5 m × 5 m for various recurrence periods. The simulation results indicate that the debris flow develops rapidly along the gully after formation, decelerating and beginning to deposit upon reaching the cement plant area near the mouth of the gully, eventually merging into the Bailong River. The primary destructive modes of debris flow disasters encompass impact and burial. When encountering buildings, their flow characteristics manifest as deposition and diversion. A debris flow hazard classification model, based on intensity and recurrence periods, was established according to Swiss and Austrian standards, dividing the hazard into low, medium, and high levels. This method generated a debris flow hazard zone map, offering guidance for risk prevention and monitoring. This research demonstrates that using high-precision Digital Surface Models (DSM) can accurately represent the digital information of debris flow gully terrains and buildings. During the simulation process, it realistically reflects the characteristics of the debris flow movement, allowing for the more precise delineation of hazard zones. Full article
17 pages, 264 KiB  
Article
Is the Productivity of Faculty Members Sustainable? The Perspective of Faculty Members
by Miray Doğan and Hasan Arslan
Trends High. Educ. 2024, 3(2), 356-372; https://doi.org/10.3390/higheredu3020022 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In the global economic landscape, a nation’s ability to secure a prominent position is intricately linked to its capacity for knowledge augmentation and technological innovation. This correlation underscores the pivotal role of universities and academicians, whose importance directly reflects a country’s level of [...] Read more.
In the global economic landscape, a nation’s ability to secure a prominent position is intricately linked to its capacity for knowledge augmentation and technological innovation. This correlation underscores the pivotal role of universities and academicians, whose importance directly reflects a country’s level of development. The effectual execution of educational, research, and innovative pursuits within university settings necessitates the presence of qualified, productive, and dedicated academicians. As key contributors to academic, social, and humanitarian spheres, academicians bear responsibilities spanning research, teaching, societal enlightenment, and problem solving within higher education. The scholarly productivity of researchers is commonly gauged through metrics involving scientific publications and academic engagements. Notably, in many countries, advancements and appointments within academic institutions are contingent on the demonstrated productivity of academicians. Aligning with this global trend, Turkey accordingly structures its promotion and appointment procedures within academia. This study aims to ascertain faculty members’ perspectives regarding academic productivity after their associate professors’ and professors’ appointments in Turkey. Furthermore, we endeavor to identify the underlying factors contributing to this decline and increase academic productivity. Our findings emphasize the intricate interplay of various factors influencing academic productivity and sustainability. These include the significance of institutional support, economic stability, intrinsic motivation, and challenges such as bureaucratic processes and gender-related issues, which collectively shape the academic landscape and faculty members’ ability to produce impactful research over time. The research study group comprised 20 faculty members working at a public University in Turkey in the 2022–2023 academic year. This study was prepared using a qualitative research model. This study used the interview technique, one of the data collection techniques used in process-based evaluation applications. Furthermore, the obtained data were analyzed using the content analysis technique used in qualitative research methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Faculty at Midcareer)
16 pages, 2158 KiB  
Article
A Portable Readout System for Biomarker Detection with Aptamer-Modified CMOS ISFET Array
by Dmitriy Ryazantsev, Mark Shustinskiy, Andrey Sheshil, Alexey Titov, Vitaliy Grudtsov, Valerii Vechorko, Irakli Kitiashvili, Kirill Puchnin, Alexander Kuznetsov and Natalia Komarova
Sensors 2024, 24(10), 3008; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24103008 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Biosensors based on ion-sensitive field effect transistors (ISFETs) combined with aptamers offer a promising and convenient solution for point-of-care testing applications due to the ability for fast and label-free detection of a wide range of biomarkers. Mobile and easy-to-use readout devices for the [...] Read more.
Biosensors based on ion-sensitive field effect transistors (ISFETs) combined with aptamers offer a promising and convenient solution for point-of-care testing applications due to the ability for fast and label-free detection of a wide range of biomarkers. Mobile and easy-to-use readout devices for the ISFET aptasensors would contribute to further development of the field. In this paper, the development of a portable PC-controlled device for detecting aptamer-target interactions using ISFETs is described. The device assembly allows selective modification of individual ISFETs with different oligonucleotides. Ta2O5-gated ISFET structures were optimized to minimize trapped charge and capacitive attenuation. Integrated CMOS readout circuits with linear transfer function were used to minimize the distortion of the original ISFET signal. An external analog signal digitizer with constant voltage and superimposed high-frequency sine wave reference voltage capabilities was designed to increase sensitivity when reading ISFET signals. The device performance was demonstrated with the aptamer-driven detection of troponin I in both reference voltage setting modes. The sine wave reference voltage measurement method reduced the level of drift over time and enabled a lowering of the minimum detectable analyte concentration. In this mode (constant voltage 2.4 V and 10 kHz 0.1Vp-p), the device allowed the detection of troponin I with a limit of detection of 3.27 ng/mL. Discrimination of acute myocardial infarction was demonstrated with the developed device. The ISFET device provides a platform for the multiplexed detection of different biomarkers in point-of-care testing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro/Nano Biosensors and Devices)
17 pages, 1101 KiB  
Article
Third-Generation Anticancer Photodynamic Therapy Systems Based on Star-like Anionic Polyacrylamide Polymer, Gold Nanoparticles, and Temoporfin Photosensitizer
by Oleg Yeshchenko, Pavlo Khort, Oles Fedotov, Vasyl Chumachenko, Pavlo Virych, Hunter S. Warren, Brian W. Booth, Valery Bliznyuk and Nataliya Kutsevol
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2224; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102224 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive anticancer treatment that uses special photosensitizer molecules (PS) to generate singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a tissue under excitation with red or infrared light. Though the method has been known for decades, it [...] Read more.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive anticancer treatment that uses special photosensitizer molecules (PS) to generate singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a tissue under excitation with red or infrared light. Though the method has been known for decades, it has become more popular recently with the development of new efficient organic dyes and LED light sources. Here we introduce a ternary nanocomposite: water-soluble star-like polymer/gold nanoparticles (AuNP)/temoporfin PS, which can be considered as a third-generation PDT system. AuNPs were synthesized in situ inside the polymer molecules, and the latter were then loaded with PS molecules in an aqueous solution. The applied method of synthesis allows precise control of the size and architecture of polymer nanoparticles as well as the concentration of the components. Dynamic light scattering confirmed the formation of isolated particles (120 nm diameter) with AuNPs and PS molecules incorporated inside the polymer shell. Absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopies revealed optimal concentrations of the components that can simultaneously reduce the side effects of dark toxicity and enhance singlet oxygen generation to increase cancer cell mortality. Here, we report on the optical properties of the system and detailed mechanisms of the observed enhancement of the phototherapeutic effect. Combinations of organic dyes with gold nanoparticles allow significant enhancement of the effect of ROS generation due to surface plasmonic resonance in the latter, while the application of a biocompatible star-like polymer vehicle with a dextran core and anionic polyacrylamide arms allows better local integration of the components and targeted delivery of the PS molecules to cancer cells. In this study, we demonstrate, as proof of concept, a successful application of the developed PDT system for in vitro treatment of triple-negative breast cancer cells under irradiation with a low-power LED lamp (660 nm). We consider the developed nanocomposite to be a promising PDT system for application to other types of cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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18 pages, 617 KiB  
Review
The Application of Sheep Wool in the Building Industry and in the Removal of Pollutants from the Environment
by Mária Porubská, Karin Koóšová and Jana Braniša
Processes 2024, 12(5), 963; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050963 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The presented review is focused on a brief overview of the scientific works on the use of sheep wool outside the textile industry that were published in recent years. The focus of the information is the on construction industry, which is a significant [...] Read more.
The presented review is focused on a brief overview of the scientific works on the use of sheep wool outside the textile industry that were published in recent years. The focus of the information is the on construction industry, which is a significant consumer of heat- and sound-insulating materials. With its properties, sheep wool can compete very well with insulators made from non-renewable resources. Other building elements can also be combined with wool, as long as they are used in appropriate conditions. Due to its chemical and physical structure, wool is extremely suitable for the adsorption removal of pollutants from the living and working environment, in native or modified form. Wool can also be used in recycling processes. However, each application must be preceded by an investigation of the optimal conditions of the given process, which offers researchers inspiration and interesting topics for research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Processes)
54 pages, 6108 KiB  
Review
Oceanographic Research in the Thermaikos Gulf: A Review over Five Decades
by Yannis Androulidakis, Christos Makris, Katerina Kombiadou, Yannis Krestenitis, Natassa Stefanidou, Chryssanthi Antoniadou, Evangelia Krasakopoulou, Maria-Ignatia Kalatzi, Vasilis Baltikas, Maria Moustaka-Gouni and Chariton Charles Chintiroglou
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 795; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050795 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The Thermaikos Gulf (TG) is a semi-enclosed, river-influenced, marine system situated in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, sustaining both urban coastal regions and ecologically preserved natural areas. Facing a plethora of environmental and anthropogenic pressures, the TG serves as a critical nexus where human [...] Read more.
The Thermaikos Gulf (TG) is a semi-enclosed, river-influenced, marine system situated in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, sustaining both urban coastal regions and ecologically preserved natural areas. Facing a plethora of environmental and anthropogenic pressures, the TG serves as a critical nexus where human activities intersect with marine ecosystems. The quality and health of the TG’s marine environment are tightly linked to the socioeconomic activities of the coastal communities comprising approximately 1.5 million inhabitants. The main features of the TG’s environmental dynamics and ecological status have been scrutinized by dedicated research endeavors during the last 50 years. This review synthesizes the seminal findings of these investigations, offering an evaluation of their contribution to research, their present collective impact, and their trajectory toward the future. A severe deterioration of the TG’s environmental quality was detected in the 1970s and 1980s when the treatment of urban wastewater was completely absent. A steady trend of recovery was observed after the 1990s; however, so far, the goal of a “good environmental state” mandated by national legislation and European directives has not been achieved. A clear reduction in research was detected after 2010, associated with the recession of the Greek economy, following the “golden period” for research in the TG from the mid-1990s until the late 2000s. The most important research gaps and uncertainties are discussed, while specific targeted recommendations for the improvement of monitoring and understanding of the physical, biochemical, and ecological state of the gulf are provided: (i) increase in permanent observational stations (temporally and spatially); (ii) inclusion of all major environmental parameters; (iii) monitoring of the quantity and quality of all land-originated freshwater discharges; (iv) monitoring and management of important aspects of the marine environment that have received minimal attention in the past (e.g., coastal erosion, plastic pollution); (v) development of accurate prediction tools (e.g., numerical techniques) to support first-level responders and efficient management; (vi) establishment of a supervising public entity that would support the holistic overview and management of the entire TG. These suggestions are directed at overcoming the existing uncertainties in the knowledge of the TG, safeguarding its ecological integrity and its role as a crucial link to marine biodiversity and sustainability in the Mediterranean basin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrodynamic Circulation Modelling in the Marine Environment)
19 pages, 840 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of The Effect of Loratadine versus Diosmin/Hesperidin Combination on Vinca Alkaloids-Induced Neuropathy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
by Noha Kamal, Mahmoud S. Abdallah, Essam Abdel Wahed, Nagwa A. Sabri and Sarah Farid Fahmy
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050609 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Neurological injury is a crucial problem that interferes with the therapeutic use of vinca alkaloids as well as the quality of patient life. This study was conducted to assess the impact of using loratadine or diosmin/hesperidin on neuropathy induced by vinca alkaloids. Patients [...] Read more.
Neurological injury is a crucial problem that interferes with the therapeutic use of vinca alkaloids as well as the quality of patient life. This study was conducted to assess the impact of using loratadine or diosmin/hesperidin on neuropathy induced by vinca alkaloids. Patients were randomized into one of three groups as follows: group 1 was the control group, group 2 received 450 mg diosmin and 50 mg hesperidin combination orally twice daily, and group 3 received loratadine 10 mg orally once daily. Subjective scores (numeric pain rating scale, douleur neuropathique 4, and functional assessment of cancer therapy/gynecologic oncology group–neurotoxicity (FACT/GOG-Ntx) scores), neuroinflammation biomarkers, adverse drug effects, quality of life, and response to chemotherapy were compared among the three groups. Both diosmin/hesperidin and loratadine improved the results of the neurotoxicity subscale in the FACT/GOG-Ntx score (p < 0.001, p < 0.01 respectively) and ameliorated the upsurge in neuroinflammation serum biomarkers. They also reduced the incidence and timing of paresthesia (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) and dysuria occurrence (p = 0.042). Both loratadine and diosmin/hesperidin attenuated the intensity of acute neuropathy triggered by vinca alkaloids. Furthermore, they did not increase the frequency of adverse effects or interfere with the treatment response. Full article
17 pages, 1021 KiB  
Article
Analytical Solutions of the 3-DOF Gyroscope Model
by Izabela Krzysztofik and Slawomir Blasiak
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1843; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101843 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The motion of a rigid body (a gyroscope) is one of the key issues in classical mechanics. It remains a significant challenge, as evidenced by its extensive practical implementations in various scientific disciplines and engineering operations. It is important to obtain analytical solutions, [...] Read more.
The motion of a rigid body (a gyroscope) is one of the key issues in classical mechanics. It remains a significant challenge, as evidenced by its extensive practical implementations in various scientific disciplines and engineering operations. It is important to obtain analytical solutions, as they provide solutions that depend directly on the system’s parameters, which can be definitively interpreted. The coupling of numerical and analytical solutions allows for a more precise representation of the real phenomenon. The main objective of the article was to formulate analytical solutions for the motion of a Cardan suspension gyroscope subjected to controlling torque moments. Analytical solutions for the proposed mathematical model were developed using the Laplace transform and Green’s function. Subsequently, they were validated by numerical tests. The obtained analytical solutions are universally applicable, regardless of the type of controlling moments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Systems & Control Engineering)
21 pages, 572 KiB  
Article
Effect of Mineral Fertilization and Seed Inoculation with Microbial Preparation on Seed and Protein Yield of Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
by Liudmyla Yeremko, Volodymyr Hanhur and Mariola Staniak
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051004 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different NPK rates and N application methods and seed inoculation with a microbial preparation on selected elements of plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content in seeds and the [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different NPK rates and N application methods and seed inoculation with a microbial preparation on selected elements of plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content in seeds and the yield of protein. The research hypothesis suggested that seed inoculation and a split rate of N application with an optimal supply of plants with PK could improve the nutritional status and increase the efficiency of nutrient use in peas. The studies included two factors: the application of NPK at doses of N0P0K0 (control), N15P15K15 (pre-sowing), N15P30K30 + N15 (pre-sowing + N15 at BBCH 22–23), N30P30K30 (pre-sowing), N30P45K45 + N15 (pre-sowing + N15 at BBCH 22–23) and N45P45K45 (pre-sowing), and seed inoculation with the microbial preparation Rhizogumin. The results of the study showed significant effects of seed inoculation and mineral fertilization on pea plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content and protein yield. It was concluded that among the studied combinations, seed inoculation and the application of mineral fertilizers with fractional nitrogen fertilization with N30P45K45 + N15 were the most effective. This combination significantly increased seed yield, protein content and protein yield compared to the control treatment (by 26.2%, 11.1% and 43,5%, respectively). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
17 pages, 1732 KiB  
Review
Review and Assessment of Existing and Future Techniques for Traceability with Particular Focus on Applicability to ABS Plastics
by Ignacy Jakubowicz and Nazdaneh Yarahmadi
Polymers 2024, 16(10), 1343; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16101343 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
It is generally recognized that the use of physical and digital information-based solutions for tracking plastic materials along a value chain can favour the transition to a circular economy and help to overcome obstacles. In the near future, traceability and information exchange between [...] Read more.
It is generally recognized that the use of physical and digital information-based solutions for tracking plastic materials along a value chain can favour the transition to a circular economy and help to overcome obstacles. In the near future, traceability and information exchange between all actors in the value chain of the plastics industry will be crucial to establishing more effective recycling systems. Recycling plastics is a complex process that is particularly complicated in the case of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic because of its versatility and use in many applications. This literature study is part of a larger EU-funded project with the acronym ABSolEU (Paving the way for an ABS recycling revolution in the EU). One of its goals is to propose a suitable traceability system for ABS products through physical marking with a digital connection to a suitable data-management system to facilitate the circular use of ABS. The aim of this paper is therefore to review and assess the current and future techniques for traceability with a particular focus on their use for ABS plastics as a basis for this proposal. The scientific literature and initiatives are discussed within three technological areas, viz., labelling and traceability systems currently in use, digital data sharing systems and physical marking. The first section includes some examples of systems used commonly today. For data sharing, three digital technologies are discussed, viz., Digital Product Passports, blockchain solutions and certification systems, which identify a product through information that is attached to it and store, share and analyse data throughout the product’s life cycle. Finally, several different methods for physical marking are described and evaluated, including different labels on a product’s surface and the addition of a specific material to a polymer matrix that can be identified at any point in time with the use of a special light source or device. The conclusion from this study is that the most promising data management technology for the near future is blockchain technology, which could be shared by all ABS products. Regarding physical marking, producers must evaluate different options for individual products, using the most appropriate and economical technology for each specific product. It is also important to evaluate what information should be attached to a specific product to meet the needs of all actors in the value chain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Waste Recycling and Management II)
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19 pages, 2355 KiB  
Article
Electrical Machine Winding Performance Optimization by Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Algorithm
by François S. Martins, Bernardo P. Alvarenga and Geyverson T. Paula
Energies 2024, 17(10), 2286; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17102286 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The present work aims to optimize the magnetomotive force and the end-winding leakage inductance from a discrete distribution of conductors in electrical machines through multi-objective particle swarm heuristics. From the development of an application capable of generating the conductor distribution for different machine [...] Read more.
The present work aims to optimize the magnetomotive force and the end-winding leakage inductance from a discrete distribution of conductors in electrical machines through multi-objective particle swarm heuristics. From the development of an application capable of generating the conductor distribution for different machine configurations (single or poly-phase, single or double layer, integral or fractional slots, full or shortened pitch, with the presence of empty slots, etc.) the curves of magnetomotive force and the end-winding leakage inductance associated with the winding are computed. Taking as an optimal winding the one that presents, simultaneously, less harmonic distortion of the magnetomotive force and less leakage inductance, optimization by multi-objective particle swarm was used to obtain the optimal electrical machine configuration and the results are presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Electrical Machine Design and Optimization Ⅱ)
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17 pages, 551 KiB  
Review
Advances in Therapeutics to Alleviate Cognitive Decline and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
by Jialin Li, Anita Haj Ebrahimi and Afia B. Ali
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5169; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105169 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Dementia exists as a ‘progressive clinical syndrome of deteriorating mental function significant enough to interfere with activities of daily living’, with the most prevalent type of dementia being Alzheimer’s disease (AD), accounting for about 80% of diagnosed cases. AD is associated with an [...] Read more.
Dementia exists as a ‘progressive clinical syndrome of deteriorating mental function significant enough to interfere with activities of daily living’, with the most prevalent type of dementia being Alzheimer’s disease (AD), accounting for about 80% of diagnosed cases. AD is associated with an increased risk of comorbidity with other clinical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) including, agitation, anxiety, and depression as well as increased mortality in late life. For example, up to 70% of patients diagnosed with AD are affected by anxiety. As aging is the major risk factor for AD, this represents a huge global burden in ageing populations. Over the last 10 years, significant efforts have been made to recognize the complexity of AD and understand the aetiology and pathophysiology of the disease as well as biomarkers for early detection. Yet, earlier treatment options, including acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and glutamate receptor regulators, have been limited as they work by targeting the symptoms, with only the more recent FDA-approved drugs being designed to target amyloid-β protein with the aim of slowing down the progression of the disease. However, these drugs may only help temporarily, cannot stop or reverse the disease, and do not act by reducing NPS associated with AD. The first-line treatment options for the management of NPS are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs/SNRIs) targeting the monoaminergic system; however, they are not rational drug choices for the management of anxiety disorders since the GABAergic system has a prominent role in their development. Considering the overall treatment failures and side effects of currently available medication, there is an unmet clinical need for rationally designed therapies for anxiety disorders associated with AD. In this review, we summarize the current status of the therapy of AD and aim to highlight novel angles for future drug therapy in our ongoing efforts to alleviate the cognitive deficits and NPS associated with this devastating disease. Full article
25 pages, 1645 KiB  
Article
Fixed-Time Adaptive Event-Triggered Guaranteed Performance Tracking Control of Nonholonomic Mobile Robots under Asymmetric State Constraints
by Kairui Chen, Yixiang Gu, Weicong Huang, Zhonglin Zhang, Zian Wang and Xiaofeng Wang
Mathematics 2024, 12(10), 1471; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12101471 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
A fixed-time adaptive guaranteed performance tracking control is investigated for a category of nonholonomic mobile robots (NMRs) under asymmetric state constraints. For the sake of favorable transient and steady-state properties of the system, a prescribed performance function (PPF) is introduced and a transform [...] Read more.
A fixed-time adaptive guaranteed performance tracking control is investigated for a category of nonholonomic mobile robots (NMRs) under asymmetric state constraints. For the sake of favorable transient and steady-state properties of the system, a prescribed performance function (PPF) is introduced and a transform function is further constructed. Based on the backstepping technique, an asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function is formulated to ensure the tracking errors converge within a human-specified time. On the foundation of this, the occupation of communication channel is effectively reduced by assigning an event-triggered mechanism (ETM) with relative threshold to the process of controller design. By utilizing the proposed control strategy, the NMR is capable of implementing the enemy dislodging mission while the enemy can always be caught by the NMR and the collision would never be presented. Finally, two simulation experiments are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. Full article
21 pages, 2023 KiB  
Article
Vison Transformer-Based Automatic Crack Detection on Dam Surface
by Jian Zhou, Guochuan Zhao and Yonglong Li
Water 2024, 16(10), 1348; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101348 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Dam is an essential structure in hydraulic engineering, and its surface cracks pose significant threats to its integrity, impermeability, and durability. Automated crack detection methods based on computer vision offer substantial advantages over manual approaches with regard to efficiency, objectivity and precision. However, [...] Read more.
Dam is an essential structure in hydraulic engineering, and its surface cracks pose significant threats to its integrity, impermeability, and durability. Automated crack detection methods based on computer vision offer substantial advantages over manual approaches with regard to efficiency, objectivity and precision. However, current methods face challenges such as misidentification, discontinuity, and loss of details when analyzing real-world dam crack images. These images often exhibit characteristics such as low contrast, complex backgrounds, and diverse crack morphologies. To address the above challenges, this paper presents a pure Vision Transformer (ViT)-based dam crack segmentation network (DCST-net). The DCST-net utilizes an improved Swin Transformer (SwinT) block as the fundamental block for enhancing the long-range dependencies within a SegNet-like encoder–decoder structure. Additionally, we employ a weighted attention block to facilitate side fusion between the symmetric pair of encoder and decoder in each stage to sharpen the edge of crack. To demonstrate the superior performance of our proposed method, six semantic segmentation models have been trained and tested on both a self-built dam crack dataset and two publicly available datasets. Comparison results indicate that our proposed model outperforms the mainstream methods in terms of visualization and most evaluation metrics, highlighting its potential for practical application in dam safety inspection and maintenance. Full article
22 pages, 659 KiB  
Article
Empowering Pakistan’s Economy: The Role of Health and Education in Shaping Labor Force Participation and Economic Growth
by Muhammad Umair, Waqar Ahmad, Babar Hussain, Costinela Fortea, Monica Laura Zlati and Valentin Marian Antohi
Economies 2024, 12(5), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies12050113 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The labor force is a crucial factor in conducting economic activities, especially in labor-surplus countries like Pakistan. In this study, we explore the impact of labor force participation (LF) on economic growth (EG), with an emphasis on how this impact depends on the [...] Read more.
The labor force is a crucial factor in conducting economic activities, especially in labor-surplus countries like Pakistan. In this study, we explore the impact of labor force participation (LF) on economic growth (EG), with an emphasis on how this impact depends on the levels of health and education expenditures. We analyze time series data from Pakistan spanning from 1980 to 2022, using ARDL (Autoregressive Distributed Lag), ECM (Error Correction Model) and Granger causality techniques for empirical analysis. The ARDL results indicate that LF significantly boosts EG, both in the short and long run. Furthermore, the estimations reveal that better facilities for health and education strengthen the positive effects of LF on EG. This suggests a complementary relationship between health, education, and LF in driving EG. Moreover, our findings highlight the temporal significance of health and education: Health plays a more crucial role in the short run, while education’s impact is more substantial in the long run. Furthermore, the Granger causality results indicate that LF, health, and education significantly contribute to EG. It is advisable for the government to prioritize investments in the health and education sectors. This approach can empower individuals to actively and effectively participate in economic activities, eventually contributing to the overall economic output of the nation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation, Productivity and Economic Growth: New Insights)
19 pages, 2635 KiB  
Article
Driving Domain Classification Based on Kernel Density Estimation of Urban Land Use and Road Network Scaling Models
by Gerrit Brandes, Christian Sieg, Marcel Sander and Roman Henze
Urban Sci. 2024, 8(2), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci8020048 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Current research on automated driving systems focuses on Level 4 automated driving (AD) in specific operational design Domains (ODD). Measurement data from customer fleet operation are commonly used to extract scenarios and ODD features (road infrastructure, etc.) for the testing of AD functions. [...] Read more.
Current research on automated driving systems focuses on Level 4 automated driving (AD) in specific operational design Domains (ODD). Measurement data from customer fleet operation are commonly used to extract scenarios and ODD features (road infrastructure, etc.) for the testing of AD functions. To ensure data relevance for the vehicle use case, driving domain classification of the data is required. Generally, classification into urban, extra-urban and highway domains provides data with similar ODD features. Highway classification can be implemented using global navigation satellite system coordinates of the driving route, map-matching algorithms, and road classes stored in digital maps. However, the distinction between urban and extra-urban driving domains is more complex, as settlement taxonomies and administrative-level hierarchies are not globally consistent. Therefore, this paper presents a map-based method for driving domain classification. First, potential urban areas (PUA) are identified based on urban land-use density, which is determined based on land-use categories from OpenStreetMap (OSM) and then spatially smoothed by kernel density estimation. Subsequently, two road network scaling models are used to distinguish between urban and extra-urban domains for the PUA. Finally, statistics of ODD feature distribution are analysed for the classified urban and extra-urban areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Urban Land Use and Spatial Analysis)
24 pages, 6796 KiB  
Article
Digital Light Processing Route for 3D Printing of Acrylate-Modified PLA/Lignin Blends: Microstructure and Mechanical Performance
by Sofiane Guessasma, Nicolas Stephant, Sylvie Durand and Sofiane Belhabib
Polymers 2024, 16(10), 1342; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16101342 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, digital light processing (DLP) was utilized to generate 3D-printed blends composed of photosensitive acrylate-modified polylactic acid (PLA) resin mixed with varying weight ratios of lignin extracted from softwood, typically ranging from 5 wt% to 30 wt%. The microstructure of these [...] Read more.
In this study, digital light processing (DLP) was utilized to generate 3D-printed blends composed of photosensitive acrylate-modified polylactic acid (PLA) resin mixed with varying weight ratios of lignin extracted from softwood, typically ranging from 5 wt% to 30 wt%. The microstructure of these 3D-printed blends was examined through X-ray microtomography. Additionally, the tensile mechanical properties of all blends were assessed in relation to the weight ratio and post-curing treatment. The results suggest that post-curing significantly influences the tensile properties of the 3D-printed composites, especially in modulating the brittleness of the prints. Furthermore, an optimal weight ratio was identified to be around 5 wt%, beyond which UV light photopolymerization experiences compromises. These findings regarding acrylate-modified PLA/lignin blends offer a cost-effective alternative for producing 3D-printed bio-sourced components, maintaining technical performance in reasonable-cost, low-temperature 3D printing, and with a low environmental footprint. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Analysis and Characterization)
23 pages, 5913 KiB  
Article
Identification and Control of Flexible Joint Robots Based on a Composite-Learning Optimal Bounded Ellipsoid Algorithm and Prescribe Performance Control Technique
by Xianyan Li, Dongdong Zheng, Kai Guo and Xuemei Ren
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4030; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104030 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
This paper presents an indirect adaptive neural network (NN) control algorithm tailored for flexible joint robots (FJRs), aimed at achieving desired transient and steady-state performance. To simplify the controller design process, the original higher-order system is decomposed into two lower-order subsystems using the [...] Read more.
This paper presents an indirect adaptive neural network (NN) control algorithm tailored for flexible joint robots (FJRs), aimed at achieving desired transient and steady-state performance. To simplify the controller design process, the original higher-order system is decomposed into two lower-order subsystems using the singular perturbation technique (SPT). NNs are then employed to reconstruct the aggregated uncertainties. An adaptive prescribed performance control (PPC) strategy and a continuous terminal sliding mode control strategy are introduced for the reduced slow subsystem and fast subsystem, respectively, to guarantee a specified convergence speed and steady-state accuracy for the closed-loop system. Additionally, a composite-learning optimal bounded ellipsoid algorithm (OBE)-based identification scheme is proposed to update the NN weights, where the tracking errors of the reduced slow and fast subsystems are integrated into the learning algorithm to enhance the identification and tracking performance. The stability of the closed-loop system is rigorously established using the Lyapunov approach. Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed identification and control schemes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research and Development of Intelligent Robot)
22 pages, 1808 KiB  
Review
Innovative Delivery Systems for Curcumin: Exploring Nanosized and Conventional Formulations
by Jibira Yakubu and Amit V. Pandey
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(5), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16050637 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Curcumin, a polyphenol with a rich history spanning two centuries, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent targeting multiple signaling pathways and exhibiting cellular-level activities that contribute to its diverse health benefits. Extensive preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated its ability to enhance [...] Read more.
Curcumin, a polyphenol with a rich history spanning two centuries, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent targeting multiple signaling pathways and exhibiting cellular-level activities that contribute to its diverse health benefits. Extensive preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated its ability to enhance the therapeutic potential of various bioactive compounds. While its reported therapeutic advantages are manifold, predominantly attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, its efficacy is hindered by poor bioavailability stemming from inadequate absorption, rapid metabolism, and elimination. To address this challenge, nanodelivery systems have emerged as a promising approach, offering enhanced solubility, biocompatibility, and therapeutic effects for curcumin. We have analyzed the knowledge on curcumin nanoencapsulation and its synergistic effects with other compounds, extracted from electronic databases. We discuss the pharmacokinetic profile of curcumin, current advancements in nanoencapsulation techniques, and the combined effects of curcumin with other agents across various disorders. By unifying existing knowledge, this analysis intends to provide insights into the potential of nanoencapsulation technologies to overcome constraints associated with curcumin treatments, emphasizing the importance of combinatorial approaches in improving therapeutic efficacy. Finally, this compilation of study data aims to inform and inspire future research into encapsulating drugs with poor pharmacokinetic characteristics and investigating innovative drug combinations to improve bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Curcumin in Biomedical Applications, 2nd Edition)
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11 pages, 2850 KiB  
Article
Bioactive Alkaloids from the Mangrove-Derived Fungus Nigrospora oryzae SYSU-MS0024
by Xiaokun Chen, Senhua Chen, Heng Guo, Xin Lu, Hongjie Shen, Lan Liu, Li Wang, Bin Chen, Yi Zhang and Yayue Liu
Mar. Drugs 2024, 22(5), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/md22050214 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Chemical investigation of marine fungus Nigrospora oryzae SYSU-MS0024 cultured on solid-rice medium led to the isolation of three new alkaloids, including a pair of epimers, nigrosporines A (1) and B (2), and a pair of enantiomers, (+)-nigrosporine C (+)- [...] Read more.
Chemical investigation of marine fungus Nigrospora oryzae SYSU-MS0024 cultured on solid-rice medium led to the isolation of three new alkaloids, including a pair of epimers, nigrosporines A (1) and B (2), and a pair of enantiomers, (+)-nigrosporine C (+)-3, and (−)-nigrosporine C (−)-3, together with eight known compounds (411). Their structures were elucidated based on extensive mass spectrometry (MS) and 1D/2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analyses and compared with data in the literature. The absolute configurations of compounds 13 were determined by a combination of electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations, Mosher’s method, and X-ray single-crystal diffraction technique using Cu Kα radiation. In bioassays, compound 2 exhibited moderate inhibition on NO accumulation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on BV-2 cells in a dose-dependent manner at 20, 50, and 100 μmol/L and without cytotoxicity in a concentration of 100.0 μmol/L. Moreover, compound 2 also showed moderate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 103.7 μmol/L. Compound 5 exhibited moderate antioxidant activity with EC50 values of 167.0 μmol/L. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Structural Studies on Marine Natural Products)
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