The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
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18 pages, 4034 KiB  
Article
A Methodology for Post-Necking Analysis in Isotropic Metals
by Martina Scapin and Marta Beltramo
Metals 2024, 14(5), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14050593 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Metallic materials are commonly characterized through tensile tests. For ductile metals, a consistent part of the test occurs after the necking onset. A first estimate of the post-necking behavior could be obtained by extrapolating the mathematical model that fits the pre-necking law. However, [...] Read more.
Metallic materials are commonly characterized through tensile tests. For ductile metals, a consistent part of the test occurs after the necking onset. A first estimate of the post-necking behavior could be obtained by extrapolating the mathematical model that fits the pre-necking law. However, as well known, the accuracy of the predictions would not be guaranteed. Therefore, over the past decades many efforts have been devoted to dealing with the necking phenomenon. The most popular correction formula proposed by Bridgman is an analytical method based on the neck geometry. Despite being widely used, it may not be accurate at large strains due to the assumption of uniform distribution of the equivalent stress and equivalent strain in the specimen minimum cross-section. Starting from Bridgman’s idea and in order to overcome its limitations, the present paper develops an efficient method to calibrate the hardening law of isotropic metallic materials at large strains. The proposed method requires to record the outer contour of the necking zone during the test and to build a dataset of necking deformed shapes. Experimental quasi-static tensile tests were analyzed with the proposed approach, which appears promising when critically compared with other methods. Full article
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15 pages, 2271 KiB  
Article
Pushing the Limit of Photo-Controlled Polymerization: Hyperchromic and Bathochromic Effects
by Zhilei Wang, Zipeng Zhang, Chenyu Wu, Zikuan Wang and Wenjian Liu
Molecules 2024, 29(10), 2377; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29102377 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The photocatalyst (PC) zinc tetraphenylporphyrin (ZnTPP) is highly efficient for photoinduced electron/energy transfer reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (PET-RAFT) polymerization. However, ZnTPP suffers from poor absorbance of orange light by the so-called Q-band of the absorption spectrum (maximum absorption wavelength λmax = 600 [...] Read more.
The photocatalyst (PC) zinc tetraphenylporphyrin (ZnTPP) is highly efficient for photoinduced electron/energy transfer reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (PET-RAFT) polymerization. However, ZnTPP suffers from poor absorbance of orange light by the so-called Q-band of the absorption spectrum (maximum absorption wavelength λmax = 600 nm, at which molar extinction coefficient εmax = 1.0×104 L/(mol·cm)), hindering photo-curing applications that entail long light penetration paths. Over the past decade, there has not been any competing candidate in terms of efficiency, despite a myriad of efforts in PC design. By theoretical evaluation, here we rationally introduce a peripheral benzo moiety on each of the pyrrole rings of ZnTPP, giving zinc tetraphenyl tetrabenzoporphyrin (ZnTPTBP). This modification not only enlarges the conjugation length of the system, but also alters the a1u occupied π molecular orbital energy level and breaks the accidental degeneracy between the a1u and a2u orbitals, which is responsible for the low absorption intensity of the Q-band. As a consequence, not only is there a pronounced hyperchromic and bathochromic effect (λmax = 655 nm and εmax = 5.2×104 L/(mol·cm)) of the Q-band, but the hyperchromic effect is achieved without increasing the intensity of the less useful, low wavelength absorption peaks of the PC. Remarkably, this strong 655 nm absorption takes advantage of deep-red (650–700 nm) light, a major component of solar light exhibiting good atmosphere penetration, exploited by the natural PC chlorophyll a as well. Compared with ZnTPP, ZnTPTBP displayed a 49% increase in PET-RAFT polymerization rate with good control, marking a significant leap in the area of photo-controlled polymerization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Themed Issue Dedicated to Prof. Bernard Boutevin)
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10 pages, 3599 KiB  
Article
Temperature-Dependent Residual Stresses and Thermal Expansion Coefficient of VO2 Thin Films
by Chuen-Lin Tien, Chun-Yu Chiang, Ching-Chiun Wang and Shih-Chin Lin
Inventions 2024, 9(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions9030061 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the thermomechanical properties of vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin films. A VO2 thin film was simultaneously deposited on B270 and H-K9L glass substrates by electron-beam evaporation with ion-assisted deposition. Based on optical interferometric methods, the thermal–mechanical [...] Read more.
This study aims to investigate the thermomechanical properties of vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin films. A VO2 thin film was simultaneously deposited on B270 and H-K9L glass substrates by electron-beam evaporation with ion-assisted deposition. Based on optical interferometric methods, the thermal–mechanical behavior of and thermal stresses in VO2 films can be determined. An improved Twyman–Green interferometer was used to measure the temperature-dependent residual stress variations of VO2 thin films at different temperatures. This study found that the substrate has a great impact on thermal stress, which is mainly caused by the mismatch in the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the film and the substrate. By using the dual-substrate method, thermal stresses in VO2 thin films from room temperature to 120 °C can be evaluated. The thermal expansion coefficient is 3.21 × 10−5 °C−1, and the biaxial modulus is 517 GPa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermodynamic and Technical Analysis for Sustainability (Volume 3))
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14 pages, 14922 KiB  
Article
Influence of Fibre Orientation on the Slotting Quality of CFRP Composites Using the Multi-Tooth Mill
by Ying Zhai, Shuwei Lv, Defeng Yan, Shuaishuai Wang, Junyi Lin, Chunyu Mao, Qihao Xu and Jiyu Liu
Materials 2024, 17(10), 2441; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17102441 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites, prized for their exceptional properties, often encounter surface quality issues during slotting due to their inherent heterogeneity. This paper tackles CFRP slotting challenges by employing multi-tooth mills in experiments with various fibre orientations and tool feed rates. In-plane [...] Read more.
Carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites, prized for their exceptional properties, often encounter surface quality issues during slotting due to their inherent heterogeneity. This paper tackles CFRP slotting challenges by employing multi-tooth mills in experiments with various fibre orientations and tool feed rates. In-plane scratching tests are performed under linearly varying loads; then, slotting experiments are conducted at different parameters. The scratching test results indicate that the fibre orientation and cutting angles have significant influences on forces and fracture process. The slotting experiments demonstrate that cutting forces and surface roughness Sa of the bottom slotting surface are notably affected by the fibre orientation, with disparities between up-milling and down-milling sides. Reorganising Sa data by local fibre cutting angle θ highlights consistent Sa variations between up-milling and down-milling sides for 0° ≤ θ ≤ 90°, with lower Sa on the up-milling side. However, for 90° < θ ≤ 150°, Sa variations diverge, with lower Sa on the down-milling side. Unexpectedly, Sa on the down-milling side decreases with increasing θ in this range. Additionally, the tool feed rate exerts a more pronounced influence on Sa on the up-milling side. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Machining and Micro-/Nano Manufacturing)
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12 pages, 1184 KiB  
Article
Polarization-Dependent Fiber Metasurface with Beam Collimating and Deflecting
by Yuemin Ma, Di Sang, Yi Lin, Qiang An, Zhanshan Sun and Yunqi Fu
Photonics 2024, 11(5), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics11050474 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Metasurfaces can arbitrarily manipulate the amplitude, phase, and polarization of optical fields on subwavelength scales. Due to their arbitrary manipulation and compact size, the metasurface can be well integrated with optical fibers. Herein, we demonstrate a polarization-dependent metasurface using birefringent meta-atoms, which can [...] Read more.
Metasurfaces can arbitrarily manipulate the amplitude, phase, and polarization of optical fields on subwavelength scales. Due to their arbitrary manipulation and compact size, the metasurface can be well integrated with optical fibers. Herein, we demonstrate a polarization-dependent metasurface using birefringent meta-atoms, which can independently control X- and Y-polarization incident light. Each meta-atom allows for the division of phase into 16 steps ranging from 0 to 2 for both X- and Y-polarization, resulting in 256 nanopillars selected from the meta-atom library to satisfy the required phase. With the different effective refractive indices of the cuboid meta-atoms along the X- and Y-axis, we can achieve collimation of the X-polarization emitted beam from an optical fiber while deflecting orthogonally polarized light. As a result, the proposed metasurface collimates an X-polarized beam with a beam radius of 20 um at = 1 mm and 43.9 um at = 2 mm. Additionally, the metasurface can effectively deflect the Y-polarized beam to 36.01°, consistent with the results of the theoretical computation. The proposed metasurface exhibits a deflection efficiency of 55.6% for Y-polarized beams with a relative polarization efficiency of 82.2%, while the efficiency for the X-polarization is 71.4%. Our work is considered a promising application for optical communication, sensing, and quantum measurement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fiber Optic Sensors: Science and Applications)
11 pages, 1365 KiB  
Article
Improved Memory and Lower Stress Levels in Male Mice Co-Housed with Ovariectomized Female Mice
by Layung Sekar Sih Wikanthi, Johan Forsström, Birgit Ewaldsson, Vilborg Palsdottir and Therése Admyre
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1503; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101503 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Aggressiveness, expressed by fighting, is a frequent problem in group-housed laboratory male mice and results in increased stress, injury, and death. One way to prevent fighting is by pairing the male mice with ovariectomized female mice to provide a compatible companion. However, the [...] Read more.
Aggressiveness, expressed by fighting, is a frequent problem in group-housed laboratory male mice and results in increased stress, injury, and death. One way to prevent fighting is by pairing the male mice with ovariectomized female mice to provide a compatible companion. However, the effect of these housing conditions remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate behavior and stress levels in two different housing conditions, pair-housed with an ovariectomized female and group-housed with other males. Behavioral tests were performed to assess stress and anxiety-like behavior. Moreover, the corticosterone levels in plasma were measured by ELISA. Based on home cage behavior assessment, pair-housed male mice showed no signs of fighting, not even after isolation and regrouping. Our results also showed that the pair-housed males had a better memory and demonstrated less anxiety-like behavior. Subsequently, the pair-housed male mice had a larger reduction in corticosterone levels compared to group-housed males. Overall, pair-housing reduced anxiety-like behavior and stress levels in male mice compared to standard group-housing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)
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14 pages, 4002 KiB  
Article
Sustainable and Safe N-alkylation of N-heterocycles by Propylene Carbonate under Neat Reaction Conditions
by Andrea Czompa, Dóra Bogdán, Balázs Balogh, Eszter Erdei, Patrik Selymes, Attila Csomos and István M. Mándity
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5523; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105523 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
A new, eco-friendly process utilising the green solvent propylene carbonate (PC) has been developed to perform N-alkylation of N-, O- and/or S-containing heterocyclic compounds. PC in these reactions served as both the reagent and solvent. Importantly, no genotoxic alkyl [...] Read more.
A new, eco-friendly process utilising the green solvent propylene carbonate (PC) has been developed to perform N-alkylation of N-, O- and/or S-containing heterocyclic compounds. PC in these reactions served as both the reagent and solvent. Importantly, no genotoxic alkyl halides were required. No auxiliary was necessary when using anhydrous PC. Product formation includes nucleophilic substitution with the concomitant loss of water and carbon dioxide. Substrates prepared, including the newly invented PROTAC drugs, are widely used. Full article
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26 pages, 5522 KiB  
Article
Raising the Green Roof: Enhancing Youth Water Literacy through Built Environment Education
by Laura B. Cole, Lilian Priscilla, Laura Zangori, Beth Kania-Gosche and Joel Burken
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4262; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104262 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Green roofs cool cities, clean the air, provide habitat, and manage stormwater. They are compelling tools to teach interconnected human-ecological systems. This study included the design, pilot, and evaluation of a fourth-grade science unit entitled “Raising the Green Roof”, exploring these connections. Five [...] Read more.
Green roofs cool cities, clean the air, provide habitat, and manage stormwater. They are compelling tools to teach interconnected human-ecological systems. This study included the design, pilot, and evaluation of a fourth-grade science unit entitled “Raising the Green Roof”, exploring these connections. Five classrooms in two Midwestern U.S. public elementary schools participated, and 4th-grade students (n = 73) drew systems models at three time points (212 models) and wrote their ideas. Qualitative content analyses of the models showed that learners were increasingly combining social systems (green roof infrastructure) with ecological systems (water cycle) across the unit. Students also increasingly evidenced specific knowledge as they progressed through the unit. The analysis of student models revealed that most student confusion is related to built environment aspects (e.g., how water moves from building roofs to municipal waterways). Results of the study suggest the potential for teaching socio-hydrologic systems thinking at the fourth-grade level. The findings emphasize the need to enhance built environment education for youth in science units that aspire to connect features of the built environment, such as green roofs, with ecology. The study additionally reinforced the effectiveness of place-based units in elementary education that emphasize science practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)
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18 pages, 18984 KiB  
Article
Effect of Air Parameters on LiCl-H2O Film Flow Behavior in Liquid Desiccant Systems
by Yue Lyu, Yonggao Yin and Jingjing Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1474; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051474 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The wettability and stability of a solution’s film on the filler surface are the key factors determining heat and mass transfer efficiency in liquid desiccant air conditioning systems. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of different air parameters on the flow behavior of [...] Read more.
The wettability and stability of a solution’s film on the filler surface are the key factors determining heat and mass transfer efficiency in liquid desiccant air conditioning systems. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of different air parameters on the flow behavior of a lithium chloride solution’s film. The effects of air velocity, air flow pattern, and pressure on the wettability and critical amount of spray are discussed. The results show that the main mechanism by which the air velocity affects the wettability is that the shear stress generated by the direction of the air velocity disperses the direction of the surface tension and weakens its effect on the liquid film distribution. In addition, in the counter flow pattern, the air flow blocks the liquid film from spreading longitudinally and destroys the stability of the liquid film at the liquid outlet, which increases the critical amount of spray. The pressure distribution is similar under different operating pressures when the flow is stable; thus, pressure has little effect on wettability. The simulation results under 8 atm are compared with the experimental results. It is found that the sudden increase in the amount of moisture removal when the amount of spray changes from 0.05 to 0.1 m3/(m·h) in the experiment is caused by the change in the liquid film flow state. In addition, the results show that within the range of air flow parameters for the liquid desiccant air conditioning system, air flow shear force is not the main factor affecting the stability of the solution’s film, and there is no secondary breakage of the solution’s film during the falling-film flow process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Indoor Air Environment and Energy Conservation)
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19 pages, 1250 KiB  
Article
Parafoveal Processing of Orthography, Phonology, and Semantics during Chinese Reading: Effects of Foveal Load
by Lei Zhang, Liangyue Kang, Wanying Chen, Fang Xie and Kayleigh L. Warrington
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(5), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14050512 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The foveal load hypothesis assumes that the ease (or difficulty) of processing the currently fixated word in a sentence can influence processing of the upcoming word(s), such that parafoveal preview is reduced when foveal load is high. Recent investigations using pseudo-character previews reported [...] Read more.
The foveal load hypothesis assumes that the ease (or difficulty) of processing the currently fixated word in a sentence can influence processing of the upcoming word(s), such that parafoveal preview is reduced when foveal load is high. Recent investigations using pseudo-character previews reported an absence of foveal load effects in Chinese reading. Substantial Chinese studies to date provide some evidence to show that parafoveal words may be processed orthographically, phonologically, or semantically. However, it has not yet been established whether parafoveal processing is equivalent in terms of the type of parafoveal information extracted (orthographic, phonological, semantic) under different foveal load conditions. Accordingly, the present study investigated this issue with two experiments. Participants’ eye movements were recorded as they read sentences in which foveal load was manipulated by placing a low- or high-frequency word N preceding a critical word. The preview validity of the upcoming word N + 1 was manipulated in Experiment 1, and word N + 2 in Experiment 2. The parafoveal preview was either identical to word N + 1(or word N + 2); orthographically related; phonologically related; semantically related; or an unrelated pseudo-character. The results showed robust main effects of frequency and preview type on both N + 1 and N + 2. Crucially, however, interactions between foveal load and preview type were absent, indicating that foveal load does not modulate the types of parafoveal information processed during Chinese reading. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurolinguistics)
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22 pages, 16559 KiB  
Article
Mechanism of Vegetation Greenness Change and Its Correlation with Terrestrial Water Storage in the Tarim River Basin
by Tingting Xia, Xuan Xue, Haowei Wang, Zhen Zhu, Zhi Li and Yang Wang
Land 2024, 13(5), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050712 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The response of dryland vegetation to climate change is particularly sensitive in the context of global climate change. This paper analyzes the characteristics of spatial and temporal dynamics of vegetation cover in the Tarim River Basin, China, and its driving factors in order [...] Read more.
The response of dryland vegetation to climate change is particularly sensitive in the context of global climate change. This paper analyzes the characteristics of spatial and temporal dynamics of vegetation cover in the Tarim River Basin, China, and its driving factors in order to investigate the response of vegetation growth to water storage changes in the basin. The Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), the GRACE gravity satellite, and meteorological data from 2002 to 2022 are used to decipher the characteristics of the response of water storage changes to vegetation changes, which is of great significance to the realization of regional ecological development and sustainable development. The results of the study show the following: (1) The vegetation in the Tarim River Basin has an overall increasing trend, which is mainly distributed in the Aksu Basin and the Weigangkuche River Basin and is spatially distributed in the form of a ring. (2) Vegetation distribution greatly improved during the 20-year study period, dominated by high-cover vegetation, with a change rate of 200.36%. Additionally, vegetation changes are centered on the watersheds and expand to the surrounding area, with a clear increase in vegetation in the Kumukuri Basin. Areas with a vegetation Hurst index of <0.5 account for 63.27% of the study area, and the areas with a continuous decrease were mainly located in the outer contour area of the Tarim River and Kumu Kuri Basins. (3) There are obvious spatial differences in the correlation between EVI and temperature and precipitation elements. The proportion of areas with positive correlation with temperature within the study area is 64.67%. EVI tends to be consistent with the direction of migration of the center of gravity of the population and GDP, and the areas with positive correlation between vegetation and terrestrial water reserves are mainly distributed in the northern slopes of the Kunlun Mountains, with an area proportion of about 50.513%. The Kumukuli Basin also shows significantly positive correlation. Full article
17 pages, 1258 KiB  
Article
Synchronization of Fractional Delayed Memristive Neural Networks with Jump Mismatches via Event-Based Hybrid Impulsive Controller
by Huiyu Wang, Shutang Liu, Xiang Wu, Jie Sun and Wei Qiao
Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(5), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8050297 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the asymptotic synchronization in fractional memristive neural networks of the Riemann–Liouville type, considering mixed time delays and jump mismatches. Addressing the challenges associated with discrepancies in the circuit switching speed and the accuracy of the memristor, this paper introduces an [...] Read more.
This study investigates the asymptotic synchronization in fractional memristive neural networks of the Riemann–Liouville type, considering mixed time delays and jump mismatches. Addressing the challenges associated with discrepancies in the circuit switching speed and the accuracy of the memristor, this paper introduces an enhanced model that effectively navigates these complexities. We propose two novel event-based hybrid impulsive controllers, each characterized by unique triggering conditions. Utilizing advanced techniques in inequality and hybrid impulsive control, we establish the conditions necessary for achieving synchronization through innovative Lyapunov functions. Importantly, the developed controllers are theoretically optimized to minimize control costs, an essential consideration for their practical deployment. Finally, the effectiveness of our proposed approach is demonstrated through two illustrative simulation examples. Full article
25 pages, 10662 KiB  
Article
DDFNet-A: Attention-Based Dual-Branch Feature Decomposition Fusion Network for Infrared and Visible Image Fusion
by Qiancheng Wei, Ying Liu, Xiaoping Jiang, Ben Zhang, Qiya Su and Muyao Yu
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(10), 1795; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16101795 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The fusion of infrared and visible images aims to leverage the strengths of both modalities, thereby generating fused images with enhanced visible perception and discrimination capabilities. However, current image fusion methods frequently treat common features between modalities (modality-commonality) and unique features from each [...] Read more.
The fusion of infrared and visible images aims to leverage the strengths of both modalities, thereby generating fused images with enhanced visible perception and discrimination capabilities. However, current image fusion methods frequently treat common features between modalities (modality-commonality) and unique features from each modality (modality-distinctiveness) equally during processing, neglecting their distinct characteristics. Therefore, we propose a DDFNet-A for infrared and visible image fusion. DDFNet-A addresses this limitation by decomposing infrared and visible input images into low-frequency features depicting modality-commonality and high-frequency features representing modality-distinctiveness. The extracted low and high features were then fused using distinct methods. In particular, we propose a hybrid attention block (HAB) to improve high-frequency feature extraction ability and a base feature fusion (BFF) module to enhance low-frequency feature fusion ability. Experiments were conducted on public infrared and visible image fusion datasets MSRS, TNO, and VIFB to validate the performance of the proposed network. DDFNet-A achieved competitive results on three datasets, with EN, MI, VIFF, QAB/F, FMI, and Qs metrics reaching the best performance on the TNO dataset, achieving 7.1217, 2.1620, 0.7739, 0.5426, 0.8129, and 0.9079, respectively. These values are 2.06%, 11.95%, 21.04%, 21.52%, 1.04%, and 0.09% higher than those of the second-best methods, respectively. The experimental results confirm that our DDFNet-A achieves better fusion performance than state-of-the-art (SOTA) methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing: 15th Anniversary)
26 pages, 1027 KiB  
Review
Cholesterol-Lowering Bioactive Foods and Nutraceuticals in Pediatrics: Clinical Evidence of Efficacy and Safety
by Federica Fogacci, Naif Saad ALGhasab, Valentina Di Micoli, Marina Giovannini and Arrigo Francesco Giuseppe Cicero
Nutrients 2024, 16(10), 1526; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16101526 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Long-term exposure to even slightly elevated plasma cholesterol levels significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The latest evidence recommends an improvement in plasma lipid levels, even in children who are not affected by severe hypercholesterolemia. The risk–benefit profile of pharmacological treatments [...] Read more.
Long-term exposure to even slightly elevated plasma cholesterol levels significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The latest evidence recommends an improvement in plasma lipid levels, even in children who are not affected by severe hypercholesterolemia. The risk–benefit profile of pharmacological treatments in pediatric patients with moderate dyslipidemia is uncertain, and several cholesterol-lowering nutraceuticals have been recently tested. In this context, the available randomized clinical trials are small, short-term and mainly tested different types of fibers, plant sterols/stanols, standardized extracts of red yeast rice, polyunsaturated fatty acids, soy derivatives, and some probiotics. In children with dyslipidemia, nutraceuticals can improve lipid profile in the context of an adequate, well-balanced diet combined with regular physical activity. Of course, they should not be considered an alternative to conventional lipid-lowering drugs when necessary. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Nutrition)
12 pages, 237 KiB  
Commentary
Early Childhood Development Is Not Enough: In Defense of Children with Developmental Delays and Disabilities and Their Right to Family-Centered Early Childhood Intervention (In the Global South)
by Claudine Störbeck
Children 2024, 11(5), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11050606 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The international recognition of the critical importance of the early childhood phase has been firmly established through decades of rigorous research, evidence-based practices, and undeniable evidence of the returns on investment made during this formative period. Consequently, early childhood development has emerged as [...] Read more.
The international recognition of the critical importance of the early childhood phase has been firmly established through decades of rigorous research, evidence-based practices, and undeniable evidence of the returns on investment made during this formative period. Consequently, early childhood development has emerged as a top priority on both national and international agendas. This momentum reached a pinnacle in 2015 with the unanimous adoption of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations, which placed a particular emphasis on children under the age of five within the education-focused SDG 4, notably target 4.2, centered on ensuring that all girls and boys are ready for primary education through the provision of accessible “quality early childhood development, care and pre-primary education”. However, the Global South reflects the glaring omission of addressing the needs of children at risk of poor development due to disabilities. This paper underscores the imperative for specialized early childhood intervention tailored to young children with disabilities and their families, commencing as early as possible following birth. It advocates for Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) as a service distinct from general Early Childhood Development (ECD), emphasizing the crucial role of families as active partners from the outset. Furthermore, the paper strengthens the case for Family-Centered Early Childhood Intervention (Fc-ECI) through the integration of evidence-based practices and an in-depth description of one such program in South Africa with specific reference to deaf and hard-of-hearing infants and their families. This model will be guided by core concepts outlined in WHO and UNICEF Early Childhood Intervention frameworks. Through this exploration, the paper aims to shed light on the urgent need for inclusive approaches to early childhood development, particularly for children with disabilities, and to advocate for the adoption of Family-Centered Early Childhood Intervention as a cornerstone of global efforts to ensure the holistic well-being and development of all children. Full article
13 pages, 3179 KiB  
Article
Accumulation of Alpha-Synuclein and Increase in the Inflammatory Response in the substantia nigra, Jejunum, and Colon in a Model of O3 Pollution in Rats
by Marlen Valdés-Fuentes, Erika Rodríguez-Martínez and Selva Rivas-Arancibia
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5526; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105526 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
This work aimed to study the effect of repeated exposure to low doses of ozone on alpha-synuclein and the inflammatory response in the substantia nigra, jejunum, and colon. Seventy-two male Wistar rats were divided into six groups. Each group received one of the [...] Read more.
This work aimed to study the effect of repeated exposure to low doses of ozone on alpha-synuclein and the inflammatory response in the substantia nigra, jejunum, and colon. Seventy-two male Wistar rats were divided into six groups. Each group received one of the following treatments: The control group was exposed to air. The ozone groups were exposed for 7, 15, 30, 60, and 90 days for 0.25 ppm for four hours daily. Afterward, they were anesthetized, and their tissues were extracted and processed using Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and qPCR. The results indicated a significant increase in alpha-synuclein in the substantia nigra and jejunum from 7 to 60 days of exposure and an increase in NFκB from 7 to 90 days in the substantia nigra, while in the jejunum, a significant increase was observed at 7 and 15 days and a decrease at 60 and 90 days for the colon. Interleukin IL-17 showed an increase at 90 days in the substantia nigra in the jejunum and increases at 30 days and in the colon at 15 and 90 days. Exposure to ozone increases the presence of alpha-synuclein and induces the loss of regulation of the inflammatory response, which contributes significantly to degenerative processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Induced Oxidative Stress Toxicology)
24 pages, 6228 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Microwave-Assisted Extraction from Levisticum officinale WDJ Koch Roots Using Pareto Optimal Solutions
by Michał Plawgo, Sławomir Kocira and Andrea Bohata
Processes 2024, 12(5), 1026; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12051026 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The current research trend is not only focused on advanced techniques to intensify the extraction of bioactive compounds from plants, but also on the optimization process. The objective of this work was the implementation of the multiple criteria analysis using navigation on Pareto [...] Read more.
The current research trend is not only focused on advanced techniques to intensify the extraction of bioactive compounds from plants, but also on the optimization process. The objective of this work was the implementation of the multiple criteria analysis using navigation on Pareto sets to determine the optimal parameters for the microwave-assisted extraction of Levisticum officinale WDJ Koch roots in order to obtain the maximum efficiency of the antioxidant potential of the extracts. The optimized parameters were extraction time, microwave power, and plant biomass/solvent ratio, while the evaluation criteria were based on the total phenols, flavonoids, reducing sugars, and antioxidant capacity. It was shown that the process parameters analyzed, i.e., biomass/solvent ratio, process time, and microwave power, determined the extraction efficiency of total phenolic content (TPC). A different observation was made for the analysis of total flavonoid content (TFC) and total antioxidant potential (TAA). Compared to the assessment of TFC and TAA, a completely different trend was observed for the analysis of total reducing sugars (RSC). Sets of Pareto optimal, compromise, and preferred solutions were identified that will maximize the efficiency of the extraction of bioactive compounds from biomass. Due to the determined number of Pareto optimal solutions, an approach related to the introduction of preferences in the optimization procedure was applied. It was shown that for a satisfactory level of bioactive compounds, extraction should be carried out at a maximum microwave power of 750 W. Preferred solutions were obtained for root biomass to water ratios ranging from 0.0536 g/mL to 0.0679 g/mL. The preferred optimal time for microwave-assisted water extraction ranged from 64.2857 to 85.7143 s. Full article
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14 pages, 685 KiB  
Article
Study on the Bouncing Process Induced by Ice Shedding on Overhead Conductors under Strong Wind Conditions
by Xinsheng Dong, Mingguan Zhao, Meng Li and Yongcan Zhu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4285; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104285 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Strong winds can lead to more complex ice shedding oscillation processes for overhead conductors, inducing flashovers, strand breakages and other accidents. This study analyzes the aerodynamic parameters of several typical icing features and establishes a numerical model for ice shedding on overhead conductors [...] Read more.
Strong winds can lead to more complex ice shedding oscillation processes for overhead conductors, inducing flashovers, strand breakages and other accidents. This study analyzes the aerodynamic parameters of several typical icing features and establishes a numerical model for ice shedding on overhead conductors under strong wind conditions. The results show that for the same amount of icing, the resistance and lift force on the conductor changes with ice shape, wind attack angle and wind speed, which has a significant effect on the ice shedding jumping process. When the wind attack angle approaches 180°, the airflow resistance of the fan-shaped and D-shaped icing conductors significantly increases. And in the process of ice shedding response of transmission lines, the lateral amplitude may exceed 20 m, which increase the discharge risk of horizontally arranged conductors. Moreover, for the significant lateral oscillation of conductors by ice shedding under strong wind, the maximum horizontal displacement is approximately 1.6 times the difference in lateral position before and after ice shedding. Full article
24 pages, 15502 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Satisfaction with Spatial Reuse of Industrial Heritage in High-Density Urban Areas: A Case Study of the Core Area of Beijing’s Central City
by Fanlei Meng, Xinyu Zhang and Yuxiang Pang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1473; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051473 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Industrial heritage is regarded as an important stock of spatial resources in cities, which highlights its utilization value for urban regeneration in high-density urban areas. With the dramatic increase in the number of industrial heritage reuse projects, how to scientifically evaluate the satisfaction [...] Read more.
Industrial heritage is regarded as an important stock of spatial resources in cities, which highlights its utilization value for urban regeneration in high-density urban areas. With the dramatic increase in the number of industrial heritage reuse projects, how to scientifically evaluate the satisfaction with their spatial reuse is a key part of the solution for the mutual balance between heritage preservation and urban renewal. This paper takes eight industrial heritage conversion and utilization projects in the high-density core area of Beijing’s central city as examples; establishes an evaluation system for the satisfaction with the spatial reuse through six dimensions, namely, functional replacement, transportation accessibility, carrying capacity, public space, boundary form, and recognition of value; and uses the IPA method to evaluate the cases. This method is used to determine the degree of user satisfaction with the spatial reuse of industrial heritage in the core area of Beijing’s central city and to summarize the advantages and problems of its reuse. The results of this study reveal a trend toward the “community-oriented” re-generation of industrial heritage in the core area of Beijing’s central city, and this paper proposes recommendations for adaptive use to support high-quality urban regeneration work. Full article
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18 pages, 11775 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Dust Deposition through Image Analysis in Complex and Remote Exhibition Sites: Study in the Cloister of the Santa María de El Paular Monastery in the Sierra de Guadarrama, Spain
by Daniel Duran-Romero, Josep Grau-Bové, Héctor Bolivar-Sanz and Xilan Wu
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4257; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104257 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Dust deposition is an important aspect of the conservation of heritage collections. Most proposed methods for dust monitoring focus on total area coverage or airborne concentrations. There is a lack of published data and methodologies to obtain size distributions of deposited particles on [...] Read more.
Dust deposition is an important aspect of the conservation of heritage collections. Most proposed methods for dust monitoring focus on total area coverage or airborne concentrations. There is a lack of published data and methodologies to obtain size distributions of deposited particles on real historic sites. The purpose of the study was to develop and describe a method for obtaining quantitative data from dust deposition without the need for sophisticated laboratory equipment, based on optical microscopy photography and software-based image analysis. Bare microscope slides were used as passive collectors of dust. Tests were carried out on a collection of oil paintings displayed in the cloister of the Monastery of Santa María de El Paular in the Sierra de Guadarrama in Spain for one year, with a distance of 100 km between this place and the laboratory. The designed method allowed for the detection of significant differences in deposition depending on the location and seasonal period. Vertically orientated bare slides did not provide relevant information and a magnification of 50× was not really useful. However, horizontal collectors and a magnification of 10× allowed studying the deposition of particles above 2 μm2. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Advanced Technology in Cultural Heritage Preservation)
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16 pages, 1324 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Potential of a Biocoagulant Produced from Prickly Pear Peel Waste Valorization for Wastewater Treatment
by Miguel Mauricio Aguilera Flores, Oswaldo Emmanuel Robles Miranda, Nahum Andrés Medellín Castillo, Verónica Ávila Vázquez, Omar Sánchez Mata, Rosendo Vázquez Bañuelos and Carolina Estefanía Chávez Murillo
Water 2024, 16(10), 1444; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101444 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
This study evaluated the potential of a biocoagulant produced from prickly pear peel waste valorization and its use as a biocoagulant aid mixed with aluminum sulfate to remove turbidity in domestic wastewater. A central composite design (CCD) and a simplex lattice design (SLD) [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the potential of a biocoagulant produced from prickly pear peel waste valorization and its use as a biocoagulant aid mixed with aluminum sulfate to remove turbidity in domestic wastewater. A central composite design (CCD) and a simplex lattice design (SLD) of two components (biocoagulant and aluminum sulfate) were developed to determine the optimal doses and pH of the biocoagulant and optimal mixing proportions. Both designs optimized the coagulation process from an analysis of variance to fit the experimental data to mathematical models and an optimization analysis to obtain the highest percentage of turbidity removal. The results showed that a water pH of 4 and a biocoagulant dose of 100 mg/L are optimal conditions for a turbidity removal of 76.1%. The potential decreases to 51.7% when the wastewater pH is maintained at 7.8 and a dose of 250 mg/L is used. This efficiency could be increased to 58.2% by using a mixture with optimal proportions of 30% biocoagulant and 70% aluminum sulfate. The experimental data were fitted to two quadratic models, estimating model prediction errors of 0.42% and 2.34%, respectively. Therefore, these results support the valorization of prickly pear peel waste to produce a biocoagulant, which could be used in acid and alkaline wastewater or as a biocoagulant aid mixed with aluminum sulfate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Field of Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
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27 pages, 3069 KiB  
Article
Power System Signal-Detection Method Based on the Accelerated Unsaturated Stochastic Resonance Principle
by Shuqin Sun, Xin Qi, Zhenghai Yuan, Xiaojun Tang and Zaihua Li
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4284; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104284 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The classical bistable stochastic resonance algorithm has an inherent output saturation defect that restricts the amplitude of the output signal. This paper examines the causes of this phenomenon and its negative impact on the detection of weak signals. Proposing the Unsaturated Bistable Stochastic [...] Read more.
The classical bistable stochastic resonance algorithm has an inherent output saturation defect that restricts the amplitude of the output signal. This paper examines the causes of this phenomenon and its negative impact on the detection of weak signals. Proposing the Unsaturated Bistable Stochastic Resonance (UBSR) detection algorithm involves constructing a segmented potential function using a linear function to eliminate the effect of higher-order terms in the classical stochastic resonance algorithm. A new type of segmented potential function has been created by combining exponential and linear functions. This new function helps to eliminate the impact of higher-order terms in classical algorithms while also improving the noise immunity of the stochastic resonance system. This results in the development of the accelerated stochastic resonance (ASR) detection algorithm. In this paper, the Kramers escape rate and output signal-to-noise ratio of two improved stochastic resonance algorithms are theoretically derived and compared with the classical bistable stochastic resonance algorithms, and the proposed algorithms are able to effectively avoid the output saturation phenomenon and have more excellent detection performance under strong background noise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Physics General)
23 pages, 821 KiB  
Article
Potential Role of Bioactive Compounds: In Vitro Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Fermented Milk Thistle
by Edyta Kucharska, Bartłomiej Grygorcewicz, Monika Spietelun, Patrycja Olszewska, Anna Bobkowska, Joanna Ryglewicz, Anna Nowak, Anna Muzykiewicz-Szymańska, Łukasz Kucharski and Robert Pełech
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4287; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104287 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The group of innovative ingredients in cosmetic preparations includes bio-ferments (Bs), which are characterized by high bioactivity and biocompatibility, and one of the plants rich in bioactive compounds that has a beneficial effect on the skin and the body is Silybum marianum. [...] Read more.
The group of innovative ingredients in cosmetic preparations includes bio-ferments (Bs), which are characterized by high bioactivity and biocompatibility, and one of the plants rich in bioactive compounds that has a beneficial effect on the skin and the body is Silybum marianum. Bio-ferments obtained from this plant are becoming increasingly useful as active ingredients in cosmetics. In the present study, four different bio-ferments were obtained by fermentation of pomace (B-P), extract (B-E), oil (B-O), and seeds (B-S) of milk thistle. Their biodegradability (%B), total polyphenols content (Folin–Ciocalteu method), and antimicrobial, antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods), chelating (Fe2+ ions), and reduction (Cu2+ and Fe3+ ions) properties, as well as the acidity, were evaluated. The contact angle using the sessile drop method was assessed to investigate bio-ferments’ impact on skin wettability. Finally, the content of selected phenolic acids in the Bs was evaluated using the HPLC method, while the lactic acid (LA) content was assessed using the GC-MS method. All bio-ferments were characterized by high polyphenols content (13.56 ± 0.10–15.28 ± 0.12 mmol GA/L B), chelating (0.08 ± 0.01–0.17 ± 0.01 mmol Fe2+/L B) and antioxidant activity (DPPH method, 2.41 ± 0.01–3.53 ± 0.01 mmol Tx/L B), and reducing Cu2+ and Fe3+ ions. Gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, caffeic acid, neochlorogenic acid, coumaric acid, and LA were identified in Bs. The most increased antibacterial activity for B-P was observed for a strain of Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 250 μL/mL) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC = 250 μL/mL). Simultaneously, B-S demonstrated the highest inhibitory effects against Escherichia coli (MIC = 125 μL/mL), emphasizing the varied antimicrobial profiles of these bio-ferments against different bacterial strains. Research on aerobic biodegradation demonstrated a high level of degradation (%B= 60 ± 1–65 ± 3), and all Bs were categorized as readily degradable according to the OECD classification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactive Natural Products in Health and Disease)

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