The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
22 pages, 13881 KiB  
Article
Mining Trajectory Planning of Unmanned Excavator Based on Machine Learning
by Zhong Jin, Mingde Gong, Dingxuan Zhao, Shaomeng Luo, Guowang Li, Jiaheng Li, Yue Zhang and Wenbin Liu
Mathematics 2024, 12(9), 1298; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12091298 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Trajectory planning plays a crucial role in achieving unmanned excavator operations. The quality of trajectory planning results heavily relies on the level of rules extracted from objects such as scenes and optimization objectives, using traditional theoretical methods. To address this issue, this study [...] Read more.
Trajectory planning plays a crucial role in achieving unmanned excavator operations. The quality of trajectory planning results heavily relies on the level of rules extracted from objects such as scenes and optimization objectives, using traditional theoretical methods. To address this issue, this study focuses on professional operators and employs machine learning methods for job trajectory planning, thereby obtaining planned trajectories which exhibit excellent characteristics similar to those of professional operators. Under typical working conditions, data collection and analysis are conducted on the job trajectories of professional operators, with key points being extracted. Machine learning is then utilized to train models under different parameters in order to obtain the optimal model. To ensure sufficient samples for machine learning training, the bootstrap method is employed to adequately expand the sample size. Compared with the traditional spline curve method, the trajectories generated by machine learning models reduce the maximum speeds of excavator boom arm, dipper stick, bucket, and swing joint by 8.64 deg/s, 10.24 deg/s, 18.33 deg/s, and 1.6 deg/s, respectively; moreover, the error does not exceed 2.99 deg when compared with curves drawn by professional operators; and, finally, the trajectories generated by this model are continuously differentiable without position or velocity discontinuities, and their overall performance surpasses that of those generated by the traditional spline curve method. This paper proposes a trajectory generation method that combines excellent operators with machine learning and establishes a machine learning-based trajectory-planning model that eliminates the need for manually establishing complex rules. It is applicable to motion path planning in various working conditions of unmanned excavators. Full article
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25 pages, 11251 KiB  
Article
Thermal Stress in Full-Size Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stacks by Multi-Physics Modeling
by Xueping Zhang, Mingtao Wu, Liusheng Xiao, Hao Wang, Yingqi Liu, Dingrong Ou and Jinliang Yuan
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2025; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092025 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Mechanical failures in the operating stacks of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are frequently related to thermal stresses generated by a temperature gradient and its variation. In this study, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is developed and further applied in full-size SOFC [...] Read more.
Mechanical failures in the operating stacks of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are frequently related to thermal stresses generated by a temperature gradient and its variation. In this study, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is developed and further applied in full-size SOFC stacks, which are fully coupled and implemented for analysis of heat flow electrochemical phenomena, aiming to predict thermal stress distribution. The primary object of the present investigation is to explore features and characteristics of the thermal stress influenced by electrochemical reactions and various transport processes within the stacks. It is revealed that the volume ratio of the higher thermal stress region differs nearly 30% for different stack flow configurations; the highest probability of potential failure appears in the cell cathodes; the more cells applied in the stack, the greater the difference in the predicted temperature/thermal stress between the cells; the counter-flow stack performs the best in terms of output power, but the predicted thermal stress is also higher; the cross-flow stack exhibits the lowest thermal stress and a lower output power; and although the temperature and thermal stress distributions are similar, the differences between the unit cells are bigger in the longer stacks than those predicted for shorter stacks. The findings from this study may provide a useful guide for assessing the thermal behavior and impact on SOFC performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Simulation of Solid Oxide Cells)
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29 pages, 43274 KiB  
Review
Application of Mesoporous/Hierarchical Zeolites as Catalysts for the Conversion of Nitrogen Pollutants: A Review
by Małgorzata Rutkowska and Lucjan Chmielarz
Catalysts 2024, 14(5), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14050290 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Mesoporous/hierarchical zeolites (HZs) are a relatively new group of materials, and interest in their application in catalysis is continuously growing. This paper presents recent achievements in the application of mesoporous zeolites in catalytic reactions of nitrogen pollutant conversion. The analysis presented includes processes [...] Read more.
Mesoporous/hierarchical zeolites (HZs) are a relatively new group of materials, and interest in their application in catalysis is continuously growing. This paper presents recent achievements in the application of mesoporous zeolites in catalytic reactions of nitrogen pollutant conversion. The analysis presented includes processes such as selective catalytic reduction of NOx with ammonia (NH3-SCR, DeNOx), selective catalytic oxidation of ammonia (NH3-SCO, AMOx), and catalytic decomposition of N2O. Different zeolite topologies and methods of their modification focused on mesoporosity generation (e.g., desilication, dealumination, steaming, self-assembly techniques, and application of hard and soft templates) are reviewed and compared with respect to catalytic processes. Special attention is paid to the role of porous structure and acidity, as well as the form of deposited transition metals, in the catalytic activation of modified zeolites in the elimination of nitrogen pollutants from flue gases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Methods for Nitrogen Pollutants Conversion in Flue Gases)
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16 pages, 3373 KiB  
Article
Value Evaluation Model of Multi-Temporal Energy Storage for Flexibility Provision in Microgrids
by Zhe Chai, Yihan Zhang, Lanyi Wei, Junhui Liu, Yao Lu, Chunzheng Tian and Zhaoyuan Wu
Energies 2024, 17(9), 2026; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17092026 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
With the advancement of distributed power generation technology and the deepening of the low-carbon transformation of energy structure, a high proportion of renewable energy has become an inevitable trend in future energy systems, especially for microgrids. However, the volatility and uncertainty associated with [...] Read more.
With the advancement of distributed power generation technology and the deepening of the low-carbon transformation of energy structure, a high proportion of renewable energy has become an inevitable trend in future energy systems, especially for microgrids. However, the volatility and uncertainty associated with renewable energy pose significant challenges to the secure and stable operation of power systems, necessitating the exploration of the flexible regulation of resources. Energy storage, as a crucial flexible resource characterized by technological diversity and a variety of regulation capabilities, has been extensively studied and applied. Nonetheless, the high investment costs and limited returns of energy storage technology, coupled with the ambiguous utility in different scenarios under the current electricity market’s framework, complicate its broader application. To thoroughly analyze the utility of energy storage in facilitating flexible adjustments in microgrids, this study developed a composite weight-TODIM (an acronym in Portuguese for interactive and multi-criteria decision making) model for assessing the utility of energy storage that incorporates heterogeneity in the risk preferences. This model enabled a comparative analysis of the utility of energy storage technology across multiple scenarios, taking the risk preferences of decision-makers into account, thereby providing strategic insights for the application of multi-temporal energy storage in microgrids. The feasibility and effectiveness of the model were validated through a case study analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Operation and Management of Microgrids II)
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12 pages, 3607 KiB  
Article
Monitoring Horizontal Displacements with Low-Cost GNSS Systems Using Relative Positioning: Performance Analysis
by Burak Akpınar and Seda Özarpacı
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3634; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093634 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Monitoring horizontal displacements, such as landslides and tectonic movements, holds great importance and high-cost geodetic GNSS equipment stands as a crucial tool for the precise determination of these displacements. As the utilization of low-cost GNSS systems continues to rise, there is a burgeoning [...] Read more.
Monitoring horizontal displacements, such as landslides and tectonic movements, holds great importance and high-cost geodetic GNSS equipment stands as a crucial tool for the precise determination of these displacements. As the utilization of low-cost GNSS systems continues to rise, there is a burgeoning interest in evaluating their efficacy in measuring such displacements. This evaluation is particularly vital as it explores the potential of these systems as alternatives to high-cost geodetic GNSS systems in similar applications, thereby contributing to their widespread adoption. In this study, we delve into the assessment of the potential of the dual-frequency U-Blox Zed-F9P GNSS system in conjunction with a calibrated survey antenna (AS-ANT2BCAL) for determining horizontal displacements. To simulate real-world scenarios, the Zeiss BRT 006 basis-reduktionstachymeter was employed as a simulation device, enabling the creation of horizontal displacements across nine different magnitudes, ranging from 2 mm to 50 mm in increments of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mm. The accuracies of these simulated displacements were tested through low-cost GNSS observations conducted over a 24 h period in open-sky conditions. Additionally, variations in observation intervals, including 3, 6, 8, and 12 h intervals, were investigated, alongside the utilization of the relative positioning method. Throughout the testing phase, GNSS data were processed using the GAMIT/GLOBK GNSS (v10.7) software, renowned for its accuracy and reliability in geodetic applications. The insightful findings gleaned from these extensive tests shed light on the system’s capabilities, revealing crucial information regarding its minimum detectable displacements. Specifically, the results indicate that the minimum detectable displacements with the 3-sigma rule stand at 22.8 mm, 11.7 mm, 8.7 mm, and 4.8 mm for 3 h, 6 h, 8 h, and 12 h GNSS observations, respectively. Such findings are instrumental in comprehending the system’s performance under varying conditions, thereby informing decision-making processes and facilitating the adoption of suitable GNSS solutions for horizontal displacement monitoring tasks. Full article
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16 pages, 5338 KiB  
Article
3D Point Cloud and GIS Approach to Assess Street Physical Attributes
by Patricio R. Orozco Carpio, María José Viñals and María Concepción López-González
Smart Cities 2024, 7(3), 991-1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities7030042 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The present research explores an innovative approach to objectively assessing urban streets attributes using 3D point clouds and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Urban streets are vital components of cities, playing a significant role in the lives of their residents. Usually, the evaluation of [...] Read more.
The present research explores an innovative approach to objectively assessing urban streets attributes using 3D point clouds and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Urban streets are vital components of cities, playing a significant role in the lives of their residents. Usually, the evaluation of some of their physical attributes has been subjective, but this study leverages 3D point clouds and digital terrain models (DTM) to provide a more objective perspective. This article undertakes a micro-urban analysis of basic physical characteristics (slope, width, and human scale) of a representative street in the historic centre of Valencia (Spain), utilizing 3D laser-scanned point clouds and GIS tools. Applying the proposed methodology, thematic maps were generated, facilitating the objective identification of areas with physical attributes more conducive to suitable pedestrian dynamics. This approach provides a comprehensive understanding of urban street attributes, emphasizing the importance of addressing their assessment through advanced digital technologies. Moreover, this versatile methodology has diverse applications, contributing to social sustainability by enhancing the quality of urban streets and open spaces. Full article
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16 pages, 2694 KiB  
Article
Liver X Receptor Ligand GAC0001E5 Downregulates Antioxidant Capacity and ERBB2/HER2 Expression in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Cells
by Asitha Premaratne, Shinjini Basu, Abhinav Bagchi, Tianyi Zhou, Qin Feng and Chin-Yo Lin
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1651; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091651 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The HER2-positive subtype accounts for approximately one-fifth of all breast cancers. Insensitivity and development of acquired resistance to targeted therapies in some patients contribute to their poor prognosis. HER2 overexpression is associated with metabolic reprogramming, facilitating cancer cell growth and survival. Novel liver [...] Read more.
The HER2-positive subtype accounts for approximately one-fifth of all breast cancers. Insensitivity and development of acquired resistance to targeted therapies in some patients contribute to their poor prognosis. HER2 overexpression is associated with metabolic reprogramming, facilitating cancer cell growth and survival. Novel liver X receptor (LXR) ligand GAC0001E5 (1E5) has been shown to inhibit cancer cell proliferation by disrupting glutaminolysis and inducing oxidative stress. In this study, HER2-positive breast cancer cells were treated with 1E5 to determine their potential inhibitory effects and mechanisms of action in HER2-positive breast cancers. Similar to previous observations in other cancer types, 1E5 treatments inhibited LXR activity, expression, and cancer cell proliferation. Expression of fatty acid synthesis genes, including fatty acid synthase (FASN), was downregulated following 1E5 treatment, and results from co-treatment experiments with an FASN inhibitor suggest that the same pathway is targeted by 1E5. Treatments with 1E5 disrupted glutaminolysis and resulted in increased oxidative stress. Strikingly, HER2 transcript and protein levels were both significantly downregulated by 1E5. Taken together, these findings indicate the therapeutic potential of targeting HER2 overexpression and associated metabolic reprogramming via the modulation of LXR in HER2-positive breast cancers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Drug Development)
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18 pages, 4004 KiB  
Article
A Coarsened-Shell-Based Cosserat Model for the Simulation of Hybrid Cables
by Feng Yang, Ping Wang, Qiong Zhang, Wei Chen, Ming Li and Qiang Fang
Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1645; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091645 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The simulation of elastic slender objects like cables is essential for industrial applications in predicting elastic behaviors and life cycles. The Cosserat model and its variants are the dominant approaches due to their high efficiency and accuracy. However, these assume cables with homogeneous [...] Read more.
The simulation of elastic slender objects like cables is essential for industrial applications in predicting elastic behaviors and life cycles. The Cosserat model and its variants are the dominant approaches due to their high efficiency and accuracy. However, these assume cables with homogeneous interiors and thus cannot simulate hybrid cables containing different materials. We address this by developing a novel coarsened-shell-based Cosserat (CSC) model. The CSC model constructs a material-aware elastic energy function along the cable’s cross-section to describe the global elastic behavior. The CSC model is specifically developed by carefully leveraging the strengths of three approaches: the Cosserat theory to model slender cables, the Kirchhoff–Love shell theory to model the cable’s cross-sectional energy, and numerical coarsening to reduce the degrees of freedom in the shell simulation via constructing a set of new types of material-aware shape/base functions. This allows the more accurate computation of the local and global deformations of hybrid cables, surpassing the classical Cosserat models in accuracy. Full article
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13 pages, 7949 KiB  
Technical Note
Speckle Noise Reduction via Linewidth Broadening for Planetary Laser Reflectance Spectrometers
by Daniel R. Cremons, Gregory B. Clarke and Xiaoli Sun
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(9), 1515; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16091515 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The low obliquity of the Moon leads to challenging solar illumination conditions at the poles, especially for passive reflectance measurements aimed at determining the presence and extent of surface volatiles. A nascent alternate method is to use active laser illumination sources in either [...] Read more.
The low obliquity of the Moon leads to challenging solar illumination conditions at the poles, especially for passive reflectance measurements aimed at determining the presence and extent of surface volatiles. A nascent alternate method is to use active laser illumination sources in either a multispectral or hyperspectral design. With a laser spectral source, however, the achievable reflectance precision may be limited by speckle noise resulting from the interference effects of a coherent beam interacting with a rough surface. Here, we have experimentally tested the use of laser linewidth broadening to reduce speckle noise and, thus, increase reflectance precision. We performed a series of speckle imaging tests with near-infrared laser sources of varying coherence, compared them to both theory and speckle pattern simulations, and measured the reflectance precision using calibrated targets. By increasing the laser linewidth, we observed a reduction in speckle contrast and the corresponding increase in reflectance precision, which was 80% of the theoretical improvement. Finally, we discuss methods of laser linewidth broadening and spectral resolution requirements for planetary laser reflectance spectrometers. Full article
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25 pages, 1364 KiB  
Review
New Mediators in the Crosstalk between Different Adipose Tissues
by Almudena Gómez-Hernández, Natalia de las Heras, Beatriz G. Gálvez, Tamara Fernández-Marcelo, Elisa Fernández-Millán and Óscar Escribano
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4659; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094659 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Adipose tissue is a multifunctional organ that regulates many physiological processes such as energy homeostasis, nutrition, the regulation of insulin sensitivity, body temperature, and immune response. In this review, we highlight the relevance of the different mediators that control adipose tissue activity through [...] Read more.
Adipose tissue is a multifunctional organ that regulates many physiological processes such as energy homeostasis, nutrition, the regulation of insulin sensitivity, body temperature, and immune response. In this review, we highlight the relevance of the different mediators that control adipose tissue activity through a systematic review of the main players present in white and brown adipose tissues. Among them, inflammatory mediators secreted by the adipose tissue, such as classical adipokines and more recent ones, elements of the immune system infiltrated into the adipose tissue (certain cell types and interleukins), as well as the role of intestinal microbiota and derived metabolites, have been reviewed. Furthermore, anti-obesity mediators that promote the activation of beige adipose tissue, e.g., myokines, thyroid hormones, amino acids, and both long and micro RNAs, are exhaustively examined. Finally, we also analyze therapeutic strategies based on those mediators that have been described to date. In conclusion, novel regulators of obesity, such as microRNAs or microbiota, are being characterized and are promising tools to treat obesity in the future. Full article
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14 pages, 245 KiB  
Article
The Death of God as Source of the Creativity of Humans
by Franke William
Philosophies 2024, 9(3), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/philosophies9030055 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Although declarations of the death of God seem to be provocations announcing the end of the era of theology, this announcement is actually central to the Christian revelation in its most classic forms, as well as to its reworkings in contemporary religious thought. [...] Read more.
Although declarations of the death of God seem to be provocations announcing the end of the era of theology, this announcement is actually central to the Christian revelation in its most classic forms, as well as to its reworkings in contemporary religious thought. Indeed provocative new possibilities for thinking theologically open up precisely in the wake of the death of God. Already Hegel envisaged a revolutionary new realization of divinity emerging in and with the secular world through its establishment of a total order of immanence. However, in postmodern times this comprehensive order aspired to by modern secularism implodes or cracks open towards the wholly Other. A hitherto repressed demand for the absolute difference of the religious, or for “transcendence”, returns with a vengeance. Th is difference is what could not be stated in terms of the Hegelian System, for reasons that poststructuralist writers particularly have insisted on: all representations of God are indeed dead. Yet this does not mean that they cannot still be powerful, but only that they cannot assign God any stable identity. Nietzsche’s sense of foreboding concerning the death of God is coupled with his intimations of the demise of representation and “grammar” as epistemologically bankrupt, but also with his vision of a positive potential for creating value in the wake of this collapse of all linguistically articulated culture. He points the way towards the emergence of a post-secular religious thinking of what exceeds thought and representation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Creative Death of God)
21 pages, 4882 KiB  
Article
WRKY22 Transcription Factor from Iris laevigata Regulates Flowering Time and Resistance to Salt and Drought
by Lijuan Fan, Zhaoqian Niu, Gongfa Shi, Ziyi Song, Qianqian Yang, Sheng Zhou and Ling Wang
Plants 2024, 13(9), 1191; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091191 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Iris laevigata Fisch. is an excellent ornamental plant in cold regions due to its unique ornamental ability and strong cold resistance. However, the flowering period of the population is only about 20 days, greatly limiting its potential uses in landscaping and the cutting [...] Read more.
Iris laevigata Fisch. is an excellent ornamental plant in cold regions due to its unique ornamental ability and strong cold resistance. However, the flowering period of the population is only about 20 days, greatly limiting its potential uses in landscaping and the cutting flower industry. In addition, I. laevigata is often challenged with various abiotic stresses including high salinity and drought in its native habitats. Thus, breeding novel cultivars with delayed flowering time and higher resistance to abiotic stress is of high importance. In this study, we utilized sequencing data from the I. laevigata transcriptome to identify WRKYs and characterized IlWRKY22, a key transcription factor that modulates flowering time and abiotic stress responses. IlWRKY22 is induced by salt and drought stress. We cloned IlWRKY22 and found that it is a Group IIe WRKY localized in the nucleus. Overexpressing IlWRKY22 in Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. and Nicotiana tabacum L. resulted in a delayed flowering time in the transgenic plants. We created transgenic N. tabacum overexpressing IlWRKY22, which showed significantly improved resistance to both salt and drought compared to the control plants. Thus, our study revealed a unique dual function of IlWRKY22, an excellent candidate gene for breeding novel Iris cultivars of desirable traits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flower Germplasm Resource and Genetic Breeding)
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15 pages, 4171 KiB  
Article
Self-Assembly Behavior, Aggregation Structure, and the Charge Carrier Transport Properties of S-Heterocyclic Annulated Perylene Diimide Derivatives
by Haijie Ben, Gaojie Yan, Yulin Wang, Huiming Zeng, Yuechao Wu, Feng Lin, Junhua Zhao, Wanglong Du, Shaojie Zhang, Shijia Zhou, Jingyu Pu, Milan Ye, Haifeng Ji and Liang Lv
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 1964; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29091964 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The construction of high-performance n-type semiconductors is crucial for the advancement of organic electronics. As an attractive n-type semiconductor, molecular systems based on perylene diimide derivatives (PDIs) have been extensively investigated over recent years. Owing to the fascinating aggregated structure and high performance, [...] Read more.
The construction of high-performance n-type semiconductors is crucial for the advancement of organic electronics. As an attractive n-type semiconductor, molecular systems based on perylene diimide derivatives (PDIs) have been extensively investigated over recent years. Owing to the fascinating aggregated structure and high performance, S-heterocyclic annulated PDIs (SPDIs) are receiving increasing attention. However, the relationship between the structure and the electrical properties of SPDIs has not been deeply revealed, restricting the progress of PDI-based organic electronics. Here, we developed two novel SPDIs with linear and dendronized substituents in the imide position, named linear SPDI and dendronized SPDI, respectively. A series of structural and property characterizations indicated that linear SPDI formed a long-range-ordered crystalline structure based on helical supramolecular columns, while dendronized SPDI, with longer alkyl side chains, formed a 3D-ordered crystalline structure at a low temperature, which transformed into a hexagonal columnar liquid crystal structure at a high temperature. Moreover, no significant charge carrier transport signal was examined for linear SPDI, while dendronized SPDI had a charge carrier mobility of 3.5 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1 and 2.1 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1 in the crystalline and liquid crystalline state, respectively. These findings highlight the importance of the structure–function relationship in PDIs, and also offer useful roadmaps for the design of high-performance organic electronics for down-to-earth applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Photochemistry and Photocatalysis)
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24 pages, 5150 KiB  
Article
Phytochemical, In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Research on the Extract of Ajuga chamaepitys (L.) Schreb.
by Elis Ionus, Verginica Schröder, Carmen Lidia Chiţescu, Laura Adriana Bucur, Carmen Elena Lupu, Denisa-Elena Dumitrescu, Liliana Popescu, Dragoș Paul Mihai, Octavian Tudorel Olaru, George Mihai Nițulescu, Rica Boscencu and Cerasela Elena Gîrd
Plants 2024, 13(9), 1192; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091192 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The present study focuses on the chemical characterization of a dry extract obtained from the species Ajuga chamaepitys (L.) Schreb, evaluating its antioxidant properties, toxicity, and in silico profile. Quantitative analysis of the dry extract revealed a notable amount of phytochemical compounds: 59.932 [...] Read more.
The present study focuses on the chemical characterization of a dry extract obtained from the species Ajuga chamaepitys (L.) Schreb, evaluating its antioxidant properties, toxicity, and in silico profile. Quantitative analysis of the dry extract revealed a notable amount of phytochemical compounds: 59.932 ± 21.167 mg rutin equivalents (mg REs)/g dry weight, 45.864 ± 4.434 mg chlorogenic acid equivalents (mg ChAEs)/g dry weight and, respectively, 83.307 ± 3.989 mg tannic acid equivalents (TAEs)/g dry weight. By UHPLC-HRMS/MS, the following were quantified as major compounds: caffeic acid (3253.8 μg/g extract) and kaempherol (3041.5 μg/g extract); more than 11 types of polyphenolic compounds were quantified (genistin 730.2 μg/g extract, naringenin 395 μg/g extract, apigenin 325.7 μg/g extract, galangin 283.3 μg/g extract, ferulic acid 254.3 μg/g extract, p-coumaric acid 198.2 μg/g extract, rutin 110.6 μg/g extract, chrysin 90.22 μg/g extract, syringic acid 84.2 μg/g extract, pinocembrin 32.7 μg/g extract, ellagic acid 18.2 μg/g extract). The antioxidant activity was in accordance with the amount of phytochemical compounds: IC50DPPH = 483.6 ± 41.4 µg/mL, IC50ABTS•+ = 127.4 ± 20.2 µg/mL, and EC50FRAP = 491.6 ± 2 µg/mL. On the larvae of Artemia sp., it was found that the extract has a low cytotoxic action. In silico studies have highlighted the possibility of inhibiting the activity of protein kinases CDK5 and GSK-3b for apigenin, galangin, and kaempferol, with possible utility for treating neurodegenerative pathologies and neuropathic pain. Further studies are warranted to confirm the predicted molecular mechanisms of action and to further investigate the therapeutic potential in animal models of neurological disorders. Full article
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11 pages, 242 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Barriers and Facilitators in the Management of Childhood Trauma and Violence Exposure Intervention in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province, South Africa
by Petunia Tsheole, Lufuno Makhado, Angelina Maphula and Nombulelo Veronica Sepeng
Children 2024, 11(5), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11050516 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Research has shown that barriers and facilitators in psychotherapy exhibit similarities. The authors of this study are of the view that to effectively address the difficulties encountered in psychotherapy for children and adolescents, it is crucial to consider the points of view of [...] Read more.
Research has shown that barriers and facilitators in psychotherapy exhibit similarities. The authors of this study are of the view that to effectively address the difficulties encountered in psychotherapy for children and adolescents, it is crucial to consider the points of view of professionals who have firsthand encounters with children. The purpose of this study was to effectively explore barriers and facilitators in the treatment of children exposed to trauma and violence. Exploratory and descriptive methods, as components of a qualitative research design, were employed to investigate and articulate the barriers and facilitators involved in managing childhood trauma. An advertisement was used to recruit participants. It was developed and distributed to psychologists and social workers recommended by the Thohoyandou Victim Empowerment Programme. Seventeen professionals were individually interviewed using semi-structured interview schedules. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The findings of the study indicated a lack of commitment from parents in honouring appointments, financial challenges, a fear of perpetrators associated with the poor reporting of incidences, professional boundaries, and referral route challenges. Familiar facilitators in the management of childhood trauma included continuous training and workshops for all people working with childhood trauma and violence, the employment of more victim advocates, and awareness campaigns. Additionally, the referral pathway for traumatised children presents logistical, psychological, and educational hurdles, underscoring the complex nature of meeting the needs of these vulnerable populations within the healthcare system. In conclusion, even while the currently available research supports the barriers and facilitators for this population, more investigation is required to examine how these factors affect treatment outcomes, particularly in community-based settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Stress Resilience in Children and Adolescents)
12 pages, 362 KiB  
Article
Theoretical Study of the Phonon and Electrical Conductivity Properties of Pure and Sr-Doped LaMnO3 Thin Films
by Angel T. Apostolov, Iliana N. Apostolova and Julia Mihailowa Wesselinowa
Materials 2024, 17(9), 1995; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17091995 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The film thickness, temperature, substrate and doping dependence of the phonon energy ω and damping γ, as well as the electrical conductivity, of pure and Sr-doped LaMnO3 thin films near the phase transition temperature TN are investigated using a microscopic [...] Read more.
The film thickness, temperature, substrate and doping dependence of the phonon energy ω and damping γ, as well as the electrical conductivity, of pure and Sr-doped LaMnO3 thin films near the phase transition temperature TN are investigated using a microscopic model and the Green’s function technique. Due to the strong spin–phonon interaction, there appears a kink at TN in the temperature dependence of ω(T) and γ(T). The softening and hardening of the ω = 495 cm−1 (A1g) and ω = 614 cm−1 (B2g) modes is explained by the different sign of the anharmonic spin–phonon interaction constant R. The damping increases with T for both cases because it is proportional to R2. ω decreases whereas γ increases with an increasing Sr concentration. This is due to the strain caused by the difference between the ionic radii of the La and Sr ions. The film thickness dependence is also considered. ω and γ increase strongly with the decreasing film thickness. The electrical conductivity is enhanced after the doping of the LMO thin films with Sr, which could be used for energy storage applications. The observed results are in good qualitative agreement with the experimental data. Full article
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16 pages, 3092 KiB  
Article
An Underwater Localization Algorithm for Airborne Moving Sound Sources Using Doppler Warping Transform
by Junjie Mao, Zhaohui Peng, Bo Zhang, Tongchen Wang, Zhaokai Zhai, Chuanxing Hu and Qianyu Wang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(5), 708; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12050708 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
When an airborne sound source is in rapid motion, the acoustic signal detected by the underwater sensor experiences a substantial Doppler shift. This shift is intricately linked to the motion parameters of the sound source. Analyzing the Doppler shift characteristics of received acoustic [...] Read more.
When an airborne sound source is in rapid motion, the acoustic signal detected by the underwater sensor experiences a substantial Doppler shift. This shift is intricately linked to the motion parameters of the sound source. Analyzing the Doppler shift characteristics of received acoustic signals enables not only the estimation of target motion parameters but also the localization of the airborne sound source. Currently, the predominant methods for estimating parameters of uniformly moving targets are grounded in classical approaches. In this study, the application of the Doppler warping transform, traditionally applicable to sound sources in uniform linear motion, is extended to encompass a broader spectrum of sound source trajectories. Theoretical and experimental data validate the efficacy of this transform in linearizing the Doppler shift induced by a source in curved motion. Building upon this foundation, a methodology is proposed for locating airborne acoustic sources in curved motion from underwater. Sea experimental data corroborate the method’s effectiveness in achieving underwater localization of a helicopter target during curved motion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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19 pages, 2051 KiB  
Perspective
Concept Paper for a Digital Expert: Systematic Derivation of (Causal) Bayesian Networks Based on Ontologies for Knowledge-Based Production Steps
by Manja Mai-Ly Pfaff-Kastner, Ken Wenzel and Steffen Ihlenfeldt
Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2024, 6(2), 898-916; https://doi.org/10.3390/make6020042 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Despite increasing digitalization and automation, complex production processes often require human judgment/decision-making adaptability. Humans can abstract and transfer knowledge to new situations. People in production are an irreplaceable resource. This paper presents a new concept for digitizing human expertise and their ability to [...] Read more.
Despite increasing digitalization and automation, complex production processes often require human judgment/decision-making adaptability. Humans can abstract and transfer knowledge to new situations. People in production are an irreplaceable resource. This paper presents a new concept for digitizing human expertise and their ability to make knowledge-based decisions in the production area based on ontologies and causal Bayesian networks for further research. Dedicated approaches for the ontology-based creation of Bayesian networks exist in the literature. Therefore, we first comprehensively analyze previous studies and summarize the approaches. We then add the causal perspective, which has often not been an explicit subject of consideration. We see a research gap in the systematic and structured approach to ontology-based generation of causal graphs (CGs). At the current state of knowledge, the semantic understanding of a domain formalized in an ontology can contribute to developing a generic approach to derive a CG. The ontology functions as a knowledge base by formally representing knowledge and experience. Causal inference calculations can mathematically imitate the human decision-making process under uncertainty. Therefore, a systematic ontology-based approach to building a CG can allow digitizing the human ability to make decisions based on experience and knowledge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Network)
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31 pages, 5366 KiB  
Article
Elicitation of Rank Correlations with Probabilities of Concordance: Method and Application to Building Management
by Benjamin Ramousse, Miguel Angel Mendoza-Lugo, Guus Rongen and Oswaldo Morales-Nápoles
Entropy 2024, 26(5), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26050360 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Constructing Bayesian networks (BN) for practical applications presents significant challenges, especially in domains with limited empirical data available. In such situations, field experts are often consulted to estimate the model’s parameters, for instance, rank correlations in Gaussian copula-based Bayesian networks (GCBN). Because there [...] Read more.
Constructing Bayesian networks (BN) for practical applications presents significant challenges, especially in domains with limited empirical data available. In such situations, field experts are often consulted to estimate the model’s parameters, for instance, rank correlations in Gaussian copula-based Bayesian networks (GCBN). Because there is no consensus on a ‘best’ approach for eliciting these correlations, this paper proposes a framework that uses probabilities of concordance for assessing dependence, and the dependence calibration score to aggregate experts’ judgments. To demonstrate the relevance of our approach, the latter is implemented to populate a GCBN intended to estimate the condition of air handling units’ components—a key challenge in building asset management. While the elicitation of concordance probabilities was well received by the questionnaire respondents, the analysis of the results reveals notable disparities in the experts’ ability to quantify uncertainty. Moreover, the application of the dependence calibration aggregation method was hindered by the absence of relevant seed variables, thus failing to evaluate the participants’ field expertise. All in all, while the authors do not recommend to use the current model in practice, this study suggests that concordance probabilities should be further explored as an alternative approach for the elicitation of dependence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bayesian Network Modelling in Data Sparse Environments)
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12 pages, 3677 KiB  
Article
Gender Differences in Patients with Gastric Adenocarcinoma
by Yujin Xing, Hiroko Hosaka, Fumitaka Moki, Shota Tomaru, Yuki Itoi, Keigo Sato, Yu Hashimoto, Hirohito Tanaka, Shiko Kuribayashi, Yoji Takeuchi, Kazue Nagai and Toshio Uraoka
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2524; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092524 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Gastric cancer (GC) epidemiology and outcomes vary by gender. Methods: We reviewed 18,436 GC patients from 2008 to 2018 and looked for gender differences in clinical characteristics and survival. Results: The gender proportion was 71% male and 29% female. [...] Read more.
Background: Gastric cancer (GC) epidemiology and outcomes vary by gender. Methods: We reviewed 18,436 GC patients from 2008 to 2018 and looked for gender differences in clinical characteristics and survival. Results: The gender proportion was 71% male and 29% female. Males had a significantly (p < 0.001) higher proportion of differentiated GC (66.3%) and a lower proportion of undifferentiated GC (26.3%). Diagnosis through medical check-ups was more common in males (30.0% vs. 26.4%, p < 0.001). Clinical staging revealed 54.6% of males and 52.9% of females had localized disease without lymph node metastasis (LNM), while distant metastasis occurred in 17.4% of males and 16.9% of females (p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier survival curves indicated females had a significantly higher overall survival (p = 0.0018). The survival advantage for females was evident in the early stages, with a significant difference in localized disease without LNM (p < 0.001) and localized disease with LNM (p = 0.0026, log-rank test) but not in the advanced stages. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed a significantly reduced mortality risk in females (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Significant gender differences exist with regard to pathological type, presentation, clinical stage, and overall survival. These findings suggest gender-specific strategies for screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gastric Cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention)
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27 pages, 19065 KiB  
Article
Flexible and Reconfigurable OFDM Implementation in DSP Platform for Various Purposes and Applications
by Spyridon K. Chronopoulos
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2732; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092732 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the modern technological era of sophisticated applications and high-quality communications, a platform of clever strategy and quickly updated systems is needed. It should be capable of withstanding the fastest emerging problems like signal attenuation and hostile actions intended to harm the whole [...] Read more.
In the modern technological era of sophisticated applications and high-quality communications, a platform of clever strategy and quickly updated systems is needed. It should be capable of withstanding the fastest emerging problems like signal attenuation and hostile actions intended to harm the whole network. The main contributions of this work are the production of an OFDM system (with low cost) that can sustain high-speed communications and be easily adjusted with new integrated code while exhibiting the feasibility of implementing a transmitter–receiver system in the same DSP and demonstrating the holistic approach with the qualitative integration of such an architecture in a warfare scenario. Specifically, in this research, the point of view is toward three facts. The first is to show a method of quick self-checking the operational status of a digital signal processor (DSP) platform and then the pedagogical issues of how to fast check and implement an updated code inside DSPs through simple schematics. The second point is to present the prototype system that can easily be programmed using a graphical user interface (GUI) and can change its properties (such as the transmitted modulated sinusoids—orthogonal frequency division multiplexing subcarriers). Alongside the presentation, the measurements are presented and discussed. These were acquired with the use of an oscilloscope and spectrum analyzer. The third point is to qualitatively show the application of such a system inside a modern warfare environment and to recommend various potential system responses according to the development of such a platform of reconfigurable implemented OFDM systems. The implementation was performed for two types of systems: (1) transmitter and (2) transmitter–receiver system. Notably, the system acts quickly with a delay of about 1 msec in the case of transmitting and receiving in the same DSP, suggesting excellent future results under real conditions. Full article
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13 pages, 4076 KiB  
Article
Characterization of the Apoptotic and Antimicrobial Activities of Two Initiator Caspases of Sea Cucumber Apostichopus japonicus
by Hanshuo Zhu, Zihao Yuan, Hang Xu and Li Sun
Genes 2024, 15(5), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15050540 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Caspase (CASP) is a protease family that plays a vital role in apoptosis, development, and immune response. Herein, we reported the identification and characterization of two CASPs, AjCASPX1 and AjCASPX2, from the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus, an important aquaculture species. AjCASPX1/2 share [...] Read more.
Caspase (CASP) is a protease family that plays a vital role in apoptosis, development, and immune response. Herein, we reported the identification and characterization of two CASPs, AjCASPX1 and AjCASPX2, from the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus, an important aquaculture species. AjCASPX1/2 share similar domain organizations with the vertebrate initiator caspases CASP2/9, including the CARD domain and the p20/p10 subunits with conserved functional motifs. However, compared with human CASP2/9, AjCASPX1/2 possess unique structural features in the linker region between p20 and p10. AjCASPX1, but not AjCASPX2, induced marked apoptosis of human cells by activating CASP3/7. The recombinant proteins of AjCASPX2 and the CARD domain of AjCASPX2 were able to bind to a wide range of bacteria, as well as bacterial cell wall components, and inhibit bacterial growth. AjCASPX1, when expressed in Escherichia coli, was able to kill the host bacteria. Under normal conditions, AjCASPX1 and AjCASPX2 expressions were most abundant in sea cucumber muscle and coelomocytes, respectively. After bacterial infection, both AjCASPX1 and AjCASPX2 expressions were significantly upregulated in sea cucumber tissues and cells. Together, these results indicated that AjCASPX1 and AjCASPX2 were initiator caspases with antimicrobial activity and likely functioned in apoptosis and immune defense against pathogen infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Genomics in Aquatic Animals)
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23 pages, 3961 KiB  
Review
The Role of Neutrophils in Multiple Sclerosis and Ischemic Stroke
by Anna Nowaczewska-Kuchta, Dominika Ksiazek-Winiarek, Piotr Szpakowski and Andrzej Glabinski
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(5), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14050423 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Inflammation plays an important role in numerous central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Its role is ambiguous—it can induce detrimental effects, as well as repair and recovery. In response to injury or infection, resident CNS cells secrete numerous factors that alter blood–brain barrier (BBB) [...] Read more.
Inflammation plays an important role in numerous central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Its role is ambiguous—it can induce detrimental effects, as well as repair and recovery. In response to injury or infection, resident CNS cells secrete numerous factors that alter blood–brain barrier (BBB) function and recruit immune cells into the brain, like neutrophils. Their role in the pathophysiology of CNS diseases, like multiple sclerosis (MS) and stroke, is highly recognized. Neutrophils alter BBB permeability and attract other immune cells into the CNS. Previously, neutrophils were considered a homogenous population. Nowadays, it is known that various subtypes of these cells exist, which reveal proinflammatory or immunosuppressive functions. The primary goal of this review was to discuss the current knowledge regarding the important role of neutrophils in MS and stroke development and progression. As the pathogenesis of these two disorders is completely different, it gives the opportunity to get insight into diverse mechanisms of neutrophil involvement in brain pathology. Our understanding of the role of neutrophils in CNS diseases is still evolving as new aspects of their activity are being unraveled. Neutrophil plasticity adds another level to their functional complexity and their importance for CNS pathophysiology. Full article
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