The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
5 pages, 197 KiB  
Editorial
Introduction to Special Issue on “The System of Rice Intensification (SRI)—Contributions to Agricultural Sustainability”
by Norman Uphoff
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050909 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The ideas and methods that constitute the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) were first synthesized in Madagascar by Henri de Laulanié in the early 1980s [...] Full article
16 pages, 6121 KiB  
Article
15-Year Experience in Maxillofacial Surgical Navigation with Tracked Instruments
by Giorgio Novelli, Filippo Santamato, Alejandro Juan Piza Moragues, Andrea Filippi, Federico Valsecchi, Gabriele Canzi and Davide Sozzi
Surg. Tech. Dev. 2024, 13(2), 162-177; https://doi.org/10.3390/std13020010 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Introduction and Aim: Surgical navigation has evolved as a vital tool in maxillofacial surgery, offering precise and patient-specific data. This study explores the clinical applications and accuracy of intraoperative tool tracking in maxillofacial surgery. (2) Materials and Methods: The research includes 42 [...] Read more.
(1) Introduction and Aim: Surgical navigation has evolved as a vital tool in maxillofacial surgery, offering precise and patient-specific data. This study explores the clinical applications and accuracy of intraoperative tool tracking in maxillofacial surgery. (2) Materials and Methods: The research includes 42 patients with various pathologies who underwent surgeries assisted by a surgical navigation system using tracked instruments. Four representative cases are exhibited in the study: the first case involving coronoid hyperplasia with mouth opening deficit, the second case addressing naso-orbital-ethmoidal-frontal ossifying fibroma resection, the third case showcasing a subapical osteotomy (Köle) for a class III dentoskeletal malocclusion, and the fourth one exposing the treatment of a recurrent ameloblastoma. (3) Results: The results indicate that surgical navigation with tracked instruments provides high precision (<1.5 mm error), reduced surgical time, and a less invasive approach. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights the potential for reproducible outcomes and increased safety, especially in complex cases. Despite some limitations, the synergy between surgical navigation and tracked instruments offers a promising approach in maxillofacial surgery, expanding its applications beyond current practices. Full article
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19 pages, 2354 KiB  
Article
Vitamin D Deficiency Exacerbates Poor Sleep Outcomes with Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Exposure: A Large American Population Study
by Ruiqi Zhou, Zhongwen Chen, Tingting Yang, Huiwen Gu, Xiaohong Yang and Shuqun Cheng
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1291; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091291 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Phthalates and bisphenol A are recognized as the predominant endocrine-disrupting substances (EDCs) in the environment, but their impact on sleep health remains unclear. Vitamin D has often been reported to play a role in sleep health and may be affected by endocrine-disrupting compounds. [...] Read more.
Phthalates and bisphenol A are recognized as the predominant endocrine-disrupting substances (EDCs) in the environment, but their impact on sleep health remains unclear. Vitamin D has often been reported to play a role in sleep health and may be affected by endocrine-disrupting compounds. The study utilized data from 5476 individuals in the NHANES project to investigate the correlation between combined exposure to environmental EDCs and sleep duration through modeling various exposures. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of vitamin D in the present scenario. Preliminary analyses suggested that vitamin D-deficient individuals generally slept shorter than individuals with normal vitamin D (p < 0.05). Exposure to Mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP), triclosan (TRS), and Mono-benzyl phthalate (MZP), either alone or in combination, was associated with reduced sleep duration and a greater risk of vitamin D deficiency. Individuals with low vitamin D levels exposed to TRS experienced shorter sleep duration than those with normal vitamin D levels (p < 0.05). TRS and MZP were identified as crucial factors in patient outcomes when evaluating mixed exposures (p < 0.05). The results provide new data supporting a link between exposure to EDCs and insufficient sleep length. Additionally, they imply that a vitamin D shortage may worsen the sleep problems induced by EDCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
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15 pages, 4230 KiB  
Article
Uniform P-Doped MnMoO4 Nanosheets for Enhanced Asymmetric Supercapacitors Performance
by Yu Liu, Yan Li, Zhuohao Liu, Tao Feng, Huichuan Lin, Gang Li and Kaiying Wang
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 1988; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29091988 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Manganese molybdate has garnered considerable interest in supercapacitor research owing to its outstanding electrochemical properties and nanostructural stability but still suffers from the common problems of transition metal oxides not being able to reach the theoretical specific capacitance and lower electrical conductivity. Doping [...] Read more.
Manganese molybdate has garnered considerable interest in supercapacitor research owing to its outstanding electrochemical properties and nanostructural stability but still suffers from the common problems of transition metal oxides not being able to reach the theoretical specific capacitance and lower electrical conductivity. Doping phosphorus elements is an effective approach to further enhance the electrochemical characteristics of transition metal oxides. In this study, MnMoO4·H2O nanosheets were synthesized on nickel foam via a hydrothermal route, and the MnMoO4·H2O nanosheet structure was successfully doped with a phosphorus element using a gas–solid reaction method. Phosphorus element doping forms phosphorus–metal bonds and oxygen vacancies, thereby increasing the charge storage and conductivity of the electrode material. The specific capacitance value is as high as 2.112 F cm−2 (1760 F g−1) at 1 mA cm−2, which is 3.2 times higher than that of the MnMoO4·H2O electrode (0.657 F cm−2). The P–MnMoO4//AC ASC device provides a high energy density of 41.9 Wh kg−1 at 666.8 W kg−1, with an 84.5% capacity retention after 10,000 charge/discharge cycles. The outstanding performance suggests that P–MnMoO4 holds promise as an electrode material for supercapacitors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemistry of Materials for Energy and Environmental Sustainability)
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12 pages, 1155 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Genomic Studies on the Cell Blocks of Pancreatic Cancer
by Ricella Souza da Silva, Maria João Pina, Luís Cirnes, Luís Gouveia, André Albergaria and Fernando Schmitt
Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 906; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090906 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest malignancies, characterized by late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. Comprehensive genomic profiling plays an important role in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Cell blocks (CBs), derived from EUS-FNA, have [...] Read more.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest malignancies, characterized by late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. Comprehensive genomic profiling plays an important role in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Cell blocks (CBs), derived from EUS-FNA, have become valuable resources for diagnosis and genomic analysis. We examine the molecular profile of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) using specimens obtained from CB EUS-FNA, across a large gene panel, within the framework of next-generation sequencing (NGS). Our findings revealed that over half (55%) of PDAC CB cases provided adequate nucleic acid for next-generation sequencing, with tumor cell percentages averaging above 30%. Despite challenges such as low DNA quantification and degraded DNA, sequencing reads showed satisfactory quality control statistics, demonstrating the detection of genomic alterations. Most cases (84.6%) harbored at least one gene variant, including clinically significant gene mutation variants such as KRAS, TP53, and CDKN2A. Even at minimal concentrations, as long as the extracted DNA is of high quality, performing comprehensive molecular profiling on PDAC samples from cell blocks has remained feasible. This strategy has yielded valuable information about the diagnosis, genetic landscape, and potential therapeutic targets, aligning closely with a precision cytopathology approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cyto-Histological Correlations in Pathology Diagnosis)
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13 pages, 831 KiB  
Review
Subcutaneous Nodules as Manifestations of Systemic Disease
by Bruce Rothschild
Rheumato 2024, 4(2), 75-87; https://doi.org/10.3390/rheumato4020007 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The spectrum of disorders/phenomena encompassed in the practice of rheumatology is quite broad. In addition, our expertise is typically sought whenever other physicians encounter phenomena outside their knowledge base. While skin alterations typically prompt referrals to dermatology practices, alterations underlying the skin (e.g., [...] Read more.
The spectrum of disorders/phenomena encompassed in the practice of rheumatology is quite broad. In addition, our expertise is typically sought whenever other physicians encounter phenomena outside their knowledge base. While skin alterations typically prompt referrals to dermatology practices, alterations underlying the skin (e.g., subcutaneous) may well represent localization in “no man’s land” or an orphaned localization, with rheumatology thus referred as to the specialty of last resort—one of the roles that rheumatology has fulfilled for more than half a century. The current review addresses the cacophony of disorders producing or associated with variouslysized subcutaneous nodules. Their classifications, while necessarily artificial, encompass the full spectrum of pathologic processes. They are delineated in the current style to facilitate the consideration required to distinguish among them and to facilitate recognize the underlying processes for which we as rheumatologists are renowned. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Primary Care Education in Musculoskeletal Disease)
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15 pages, 4985 KiB  
Article
Research on Online Monitoring Technology and Filtration Process of Inclusions in Aluminum Melt
by Yunfei Wu, Hao Yan, Jiahao Wang, Jincan Zheng, Xianzhao Na and Xiaodong Wang
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2757; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092757 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Online monitoring and real-time feedback on inclusions in molten metal are essential for metal quality control. However, existing methods for detecting aluminum melt inclusions face challenges, including interference, prolonged processing times, and latency. This paper presents the design and development of an online [...] Read more.
Online monitoring and real-time feedback on inclusions in molten metal are essential for metal quality control. However, existing methods for detecting aluminum melt inclusions face challenges, including interference, prolonged processing times, and latency. This paper presents the design and development of an online monitoring system for molten metal inclusions. Initially, the system facilitates real-time adjustment of signal acquisition parameters through a multiplexer. Subsequently, it employs a detection algorithm capable of swiftly extracting pulse peaks, with this task integrated into our proprietary host computer software to ensure timely detection and data visualization. Ultimately, we developed a monitoring device integrated with this online monitoring system, enabling the online monitoring of the aluminum alloy filtration process. Our findings indicate that the system can accurately measure the size and concentration of inclusions during the filtration process in real time, offering enhanced detection speed and stability compared to the industrial LiMCA CM (liquid metal cleanliness analyzer continuous monitoring) standard. Furthermore, our evaluation of the filtration process demonstrates that the effectiveness of filtration significantly improves with the increase in inclusion sizes, and the synergistic effect of combining CFF (ceramic foam filter) and MCF (metallics cartridge filter) filtration methods exceeds the performance of the CFF method alone. This system thus provides valuable technical support for optimizing filtration processes and controlling inclusion quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Industrial Sensors)
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26 pages, 1767 KiB  
Article
Event-Triggered Adaptive Neural Network Control for State-Constrained Pure-Feedback Fractional-Order Nonlinear Systems with Input Delay and Saturation
by Changhui Wang, Jiaqi Yang and Mei Liang
Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(5), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8050256 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this research, the adaptive event-triggered neural network controller design problem is investigated for a class of state-constrained pure-feedback fractional-order nonlinear systems (FONSs) with external disturbances, unknown actuator saturation, and input delay. An auxiliary compensation function based on the integral function of the [...] Read more.
In this research, the adaptive event-triggered neural network controller design problem is investigated for a class of state-constrained pure-feedback fractional-order nonlinear systems (FONSs) with external disturbances, unknown actuator saturation, and input delay. An auxiliary compensation function based on the integral function of the input signal is presented to handle input delay. The barrier Lyapunov function (BLF) is utilized to deal with state constraints, and the event-triggered strategy is applied to overcome the communication burden from the limited communication resources. By the utilization of a backstepping scheme and radial basis function neural network, an adaptive event-triggered neural state-feedback stabilization controller is constructed, in which the fractional-order dynamic surface filters are employed to reduce the computational burden from the recursive procedure. It is proven that with the fractional-order Lyapunov analysis, all the solutions of the closed-loop system are bounded, and the tracking error can converge to a small interval around the zero, while the state constraint is satisfied and the Zeno behavior can be strictly ruled out. Two examples are finally given to show the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy. Full article
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15 pages, 1300 KiB  
Article
Eco-Friendly Sanitization of Indoor Environments: Effectiveness of Thyme Essential Oil in Controlling Bioaerosol Levels and Disinfecting Surfaces
by Daniela Sateriale, Giuseppina Forgione, Giuseppa Anna De Cristofaro, Leonardo Continisio, Chiara Pagliuca, Roberta Colicchio, Paola Salvatore, Marina Paolucci and Caterina Pagliarulo
BioTech 2024, 13(2), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/biotech13020012 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Bioaerosols and pathogens in indoor workplaces and residential environments are the primary culprits of several infections. Techniques for sanitizing air and surfaces typically involve the use of UV rays or chemical sanitizers, which may release chemical residues harmful to human health. Essential oils, [...] Read more.
Bioaerosols and pathogens in indoor workplaces and residential environments are the primary culprits of several infections. Techniques for sanitizing air and surfaces typically involve the use of UV rays or chemical sanitizers, which may release chemical residues harmful to human health. Essential oils, natural substances derived from plants, which exhibit broad antimicrobial properties, could be a viable alternative for air and surface sanitation. The objective of this study has been to investigate the efficacy of thyme essential oil (TEO) in environmental sanitation processes. In Vitro assays through agar well diffusion, disk volatilization and tube dilution methods revealed significant antimicrobial activity of TEO 100% against foodborne and environmental isolates, with both bacteriostatic/fungistatic and bactericidal/fungicidal effects. Therefore, aqueous solutions of TEO 2.5% and 5% were formulated for air sanitation through nebulization and surface disinfection via direct contact. Bioaerosol samples and surface swabs were analyzed before and after sanitation, demonstrating the efficacy of aqueous solutions of TEO in reducing mesophilic and psychrophilic bacteria and environmental fungi levels in both air and on surfaces. The obtained results prove the antimicrobial potential of aqueous solutions of TEO in improving indoor air quality and surface cleanliness, suggesting thyme essential oil as an effective and safe natural sanitizer with minimal environmental impact compared to dangerous chemical disinfectants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Biotechnology)
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11 pages, 4750 KiB  
Article
Hauling Snow Crab Traps in Eastern Canada: A Study Documenting Tension in Ropes
by Genevieve Peck, Tomas Araya-Schmidt and Paul D. Winger
Fishes 2024, 9(5), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9050154 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Entanglement in commercial fishing gear is one of the main factors inhibiting the recovery of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. Installing low-breaking-strength (LBS) components in the buoy lines and main lines of stationary fishing gear may be a viable solution for some [...] Read more.
Entanglement in commercial fishing gear is one of the main factors inhibiting the recovery of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. Installing low-breaking-strength (LBS) components in the buoy lines and main lines of stationary fishing gear may be a viable solution for some fisheries. But is it an effective solution for deep-water trap fisheries? This study quantified in-line rope tensions observed during fishing operations for snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. We conducted a controlled fishing experiment in which we documented the loads experienced while hauling fleets of traps. The results showed that several factors contributed to the loads observed, including the components of the traps, the presence of crabs, and environmental conditions such as wind direction and wave height. According to the statistical models, the maximum tension from the estimated marginal means was 477.53 kgf in the buoy line and 987.99 kgf in the main line for the baited hauls, which exceeds the safe working load (154 kgf) of the proposed low-breaking-strength components. Our results suggest that LBS components are not a viable solution for this deep-water fishery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Crab Fisheries)
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12 pages, 2421 KiB  
Article
A Lateral Flow-Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Method for Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Detection
by Wei-Teng Xu, Xin-Yu Lu, Yue Wang, Ming-Han Li, Ke Hu, Zi-Jie Shen, Xiao-Qin Sun and Yan-Mei Zhang
J. Fungi 2024, 10(5), 315; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10050315 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The greater yam (Dioscorea alata), a widely cultivated and nutritious food crop, suffers from widespread yield reduction due to anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Latent infection often occurs before anthracnose phenotypes can be detected, making early prevention difficult and causing [...] Read more.
The greater yam (Dioscorea alata), a widely cultivated and nutritious food crop, suffers from widespread yield reduction due to anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Latent infection often occurs before anthracnose phenotypes can be detected, making early prevention difficult and causing significant harm to agricultural production. Through comparative genomic analysis of 60 genomes of 38 species from the Colletotrichum genus, this study identified 17 orthologous gene groups (orthogroups) that were shared by all investigated C. gloeosporioides strains but absent from all other Colletotrichum species. Four of the 17 C. gloeosporioides-specific orthogroups were used as molecular markers for PCR primer designation and C. gloeosporioides detection. All of them can specifically detect C. gloeosporioides out of microbes within and beyond the Colletotrichum genus with different sensitivities. To establish a rapid, portable, and operable anthracnose diagnostic method suitable for field use, specific recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) primer probe combinations were designed, and a lateral flow (LF)-RPA detection kit for C. gloeosporioides was developed, with the sensitivity reaching the picogram (pg) level. In conclusion, this study identified C. gloeosporioides-specific molecular markers and developed an efficient method for C. gloeosporioides detection, which can be applied to the prevention and control of yam anthracnose as well as anthracnose caused by C. gloeosporioides in other crops. The strategy adopted by this study also serves as a reference for the identification of molecular markers and diagnosis of other plant pathogens. Full article
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17 pages, 40615 KiB  
Article
High Internal Phase Emulsions Stabilized with Ultrasound-Modified Spirulina Protein for Curcumin Delivery
by Qing Liu, Tao Chen, Lihang Chen, Runan Zhao, Ximei Ye, Xinchuang Wang, Di Wu and Jiangning Hu
Foods 2024, 13(9), 1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13091324 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Spirulina protein (SP) is recognized as a nutritious edible microbial protein and holds potential as a natural emulsifier. Due to the inherent challenges SP faces in stabilizing high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs), ultrasonic techniques were utilized for modification. Noticeable alterations in the structural [...] Read more.
Spirulina protein (SP) is recognized as a nutritious edible microbial protein and holds potential as a natural emulsifier. Due to the inherent challenges SP faces in stabilizing high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs), ultrasonic techniques were utilized for modification. Noticeable alterations in the structural and functional properties of SP were observed following ultrasonic treatment at various power levels (0, 100, 300, and 500 W). Ultrasound treatment disrupted non-covalent interactions within the protein polymer structure, leading to the unfolding of molecular structures and the exposure of hydrophobic groups. Importantly, the particle size of SP was reduced the most at an ultrasonic power of 300 W, and the three-phase contact angle reached its peak at 84.3°. The HIPEs stabilized by SP modified with 300 W ultrasonication have high apparent viscosity and modulus values and strong storage stability under different environmental conditions. Additionally, the encapsulation of curcumin in HIPEs led to improved retention of curcumin across various settings. The bioavailability increased to 35.36, which is 2.8 times higher than the pure oil. These findings suggest that ultrasound-modified SP is a promising emulsifier for HIPEs, and is expected to encapsulate hydrophobic nutrients such as curcumin more effectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Physics and (Bio)Chemistry)
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15 pages, 4548 KiB  
Article
Ovotransferrin Fibril—Gum Arabic Complexes as Stabilizers for Oleogel-in-Water Pickering Emulsions: Formation Mechanism, Physicochemical Properties, and Curcumin Delivery
by Zihao Wei, Yue Dong and Jingyu Si
Foods 2024, 13(9), 1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13091323 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This project aimed to explore the influence of the interaction between ovotransferrin fibrils (OTF) and gum arabic (GA) on the formation mechanism, physicochemical properties, and curcumin delivery of the oleogel-in-water Pickering emulsion. Cryo-scanning electron microscopy results showed that OTF—GA complexes effectively adsorbed on [...] Read more.
This project aimed to explore the influence of the interaction between ovotransferrin fibrils (OTF) and gum arabic (GA) on the formation mechanism, physicochemical properties, and curcumin delivery of the oleogel-in-water Pickering emulsion. Cryo-scanning electron microscopy results showed that OTF—GA complexes effectively adsorbed on the oil–water interface, generating spatial hindrance to inhibit droplet coalescence. The texture analysis also proved that OTF—GA complexes endowed oleogel-in-water Pickering emulsion with preferable springiness (0.49 ± 0.03 mm), chewiness (0.43 ± 0.07 mJ), and adhesion (0.31 ± 0.01 mJ). By exploring the coalescence stability, droplet size, and rheological properties of OTF—GA complexes–stabilized oleogel-in-water Pickering emulsion (OGPE), the higher coagulation stability, larger average droplet size (46.22 ± 0.08 μm), and stronger gel strength were observed. The microrheological results also exhibited stronger attraction between the OGPE droplets, a more pronounced solid-like structure, and a slower speed of movement than OTF-stabilized oleogel-in-water Pickering emulsion (OPE). Meanwhile, OGPE significantly enhanced the extent of lipolysis, stability, and bioaccessibility of curcumin, suggesting that it possessed superior performance as a delivery system for bioactive substances. This project provided adequate theoretical references for protein–polysaccharide complexes–stabilized oleogel-in-water Pickering emulsion, and contributed to expanding the application of oleogel-in-water Pickering emulsion in the food industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Physics and (Bio)Chemistry)
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21 pages, 756 KiB  
Article
Predictive Language Processing in Russian Heritage Speakers: Task Effects on Morphosyntactic Prediction in Reading
by Olga Parshina, Nina Ladinskaya, Lidia Gault and Irina A. Sekerina
Languages 2024, 9(5), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages9050158 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the effect of task demands on the predictive processing of morphosyntactic cues (word class, noun/adjective gender, case, and number) in reading among Heritage Speakers of Russian (N = 29), comparing them with Russian language learners (N = 29) and monolingual [...] Read more.
This study investigates the effect of task demands on the predictive processing of morphosyntactic cues (word class, noun/adjective gender, case, and number) in reading among Heritage Speakers of Russian (N = 29), comparing them with Russian language learners (N = 29) and monolingual Russian speakers (N = 63). Following the utility account of bilingual prediction, we hypothesized that the predictive use of morphosyntactic cues would be more evident in a less-demanding reading cloze task (Experiment 1) than in a more-challenging eye-tracking reading task (Experiment 2), and for cues that RHSs regard as more reliable (word class and number vs. gender and case cues). The results confirmed our predictions: In Experiment 1, Heritage Speakers (and L2 learners) used all cues predictively to generate the upcoming lexical item, with higher accuracy for word class and number cues compared to gender and case cues. In Experiment 2, in contrast to monolingual readers, neither Heritage Speakers nor L2 learners used gender cues on adjectives to anticipate the gender of the upcoming noun. The results are discussed in respect to the interplay between task demands, cue weight, oral fluency, and Russian literacy experience. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heritage Russian Bilingualism across the Lifespan)
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13 pages, 1872 KiB  
Review
Shanghai Tianma Radio Telescope and Its Role in Pulsar Astronomy
by Zhen Yan, Zhiqiang Shen, Yajun Wu, Rongbing Zhao, Jie Liu, Zhipeng Huang, Rui Wang, Xiaowei Wang, Qinghui Liu, Bin Li, Jinqing Wang, Weiye Zhong, Wu Jiang and Bo Xia
Universe 2024, 10(5), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe10050195 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
After two phases of on-site construction and testing (2010–2013 and 2013–2017), the Shanghai Tianma Radio Telescope (TMRT) can work well, with efficiencies better than 50% from 1.3 to 50.0 GHz, mainly benefiting from its low-noise cryogenic receivers and active surface system. Pulsars were [...] Read more.
After two phases of on-site construction and testing (2010–2013 and 2013–2017), the Shanghai Tianma Radio Telescope (TMRT) can work well, with efficiencies better than 50% from 1.3 to 50.0 GHz, mainly benefiting from its low-noise cryogenic receivers and active surface system. Pulsars were chosen as important targets of research at the TMRT because of their important scientific and applied values. To meet the demands of pulsar-related observations, TMRT is equipped with some necessary backends, including a digital backend system (DIBAS) supporting normal pulsar observation modes, a real-time fast-radio-burst-monitoring backend, and baseband backends for very-long-baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations. Utilizing its high sensitivity and simultaneous dual-frequency observation capacity, a sequence of pulsar research endeavors has been undertaken, such as long-term pulsar timing, magnetar monitoring, multi-frequency (or high-frequency) observations, interstellar scintillation, pulsar VLBI, etc. In this paper, we give a short introduction about pulsar observation systems at the TMRT and briefly review the results obtained by these pulsar research projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pulsar Astronomy)
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23 pages, 5232 KiB  
Article
Continual Monitoring of Respiratory Disorders to Enhance Therapy via Real-Time Lung Sound Imaging in Telemedicine
by Murdifi Muhammad, Minghui Li, Yaolong Lou and Chang-Sheng Lee
Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1669; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091669 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This work presents a configurable Internet of Things architecture for acoustical sensing and analysis for frequent remote respiratory assessments. The proposed system creates a foundation for enabling real-time therapy and patient feedback adjustment in a telemedicine setting. By allowing continuous remote respiratory monitoring, [...] Read more.
This work presents a configurable Internet of Things architecture for acoustical sensing and analysis for frequent remote respiratory assessments. The proposed system creates a foundation for enabling real-time therapy and patient feedback adjustment in a telemedicine setting. By allowing continuous remote respiratory monitoring, the system has the potential to give clinicians access to assessments from which they could make decisions about modifying therapy in real-time and communicate changes directly to patients. The system comprises a wearable wireless microphone array interfaced with a programmable microcontroller with embedded signal conditioning. Experiments on the phantom model were conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of reconstructing acoustic lung images for detecting obstructions in the airway and provided controlled validation of noise resilience and imaging capabilities. An optimized denoising technique and design innovations provided 7 dB more SNR and 7% more imaging accuracy for the proposed system, benchmarked against digital stethoscopes. While further clinical studies are warranted, initial results suggest potential benefits over single-point digital stethoscopes for internet-enabled remote lung monitoring needing noise immunity and regional specificity. The flexible architecture aims to bridge critical technical gaps in frequent and connected respiratory function at home or in busy clinical settings challenged by ambient noise interference. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Communication and Networking in the 6G Era)
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16 pages, 2614 KiB  
Article
A Nonlinear Subspace Predictive Control Approach Based on Locally Weighted Projection Regression
by Xinwei Wu and Xuebo Yang
Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1670; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091670 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Subspace predictive control (SPC) is a widely recognized data-driven methodology known for its reliability and convenience. However, effectively applying SPC to complex industrial process systems remains a challenging endeavor. To address this, this paper introduces a nonlinear subspace predictive control approach based on [...] Read more.
Subspace predictive control (SPC) is a widely recognized data-driven methodology known for its reliability and convenience. However, effectively applying SPC to complex industrial process systems remains a challenging endeavor. To address this, this paper introduces a nonlinear subspace predictive control approach based on locally weighted projection regression (NSPC-LWPR). By projecting the input space into localized regions, constructing precise local models, and aggregating them through weighted summation, this approach handles the nonlinearity effectively. Additionally, it dynamically adjusts the control strategy based on online process data and model parameters, while eliminating the need for offline process data storage, greatly enhancing the adaptability and efficiency of the approach. The parameter determination criteria and theoretical analysis encompassing feasibility and stability assessments provide a robust foundation for the proposed approach. To illustrate its efficacy and feasibility, the proposed approach is applied to a continuous stirred tank heater (CSTH) benchmark system. Comparative results highlight its superiority over SPC and adaptive subspace predictive control (ASPC) methods, evident in enhanced tracking precision and predictive accuracy. Overall, the proposed NSPC-LWPR approach presents a promising solution for nonlinear control challenges in industrial process systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High Performance Control and Industrial Applications)
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15 pages, 1902 KiB  
Article
Changes in and Recovery of the Turbulence Properties in the Magnetosheath for Different Solar Wind Streams
by Liudmila Rakhmanova, Alexander Khokhlachev, Maria Riazantseva, Yuri Yermolaev and Georgy Zastenker
Universe 2024, 10(5), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe10050194 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Solar wind is known to have different properties depending on its origin at the Sun. In addition to the differences in plasma and magnetic field parameters, these streams differ due to the properties of turbulent fluctuations involved in the flow. The present study [...] Read more.
Solar wind is known to have different properties depending on its origin at the Sun. In addition to the differences in plasma and magnetic field parameters, these streams differ due to the properties of turbulent fluctuations involved in the flow. The present study addresses the changes in the turbulence properties in the magnetosheath—the transition region in front of the magnetosphere. This study is based on statistics from the simultaneous measurements of magnetic field fluctuations in the solar wind and in the magnetosheath. Both the dayside and flank magnetosheath regions are focused on to detect the evolution of the turbulent fluctuations during their flow around the magnetosphere. Turbulent cascade is shown to save its properties for fast solar wind streams. Conditions favorable for the preservation of the turbulence properties at the bow shock may correspond to the increased geoefficiency of large-scale solar wind structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Space Science)
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18 pages, 5713 KiB  
Article
Design and Implementation of Reconfigurable Array Adaptive Optoelectronic Hybrid Interconnect Shunting Network
by Bowen Yang, Yong Li, Chao Xi, Rui Shan, Yu Feng and Jiaying Luo
Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1668; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091668 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Addressing challenges regarding Hybrid Optoelectronic Network-on-Chip systems, such as congestion control, their limited adaptability, and their inability to facilitate optoelectronic co-simulation, this study introduces an adaptive hybrid optoelectronic interconnection shunt structure tailored for reconfigurable array processors. Within this framework, an adaptive shunt routing [...] Read more.
Addressing challenges regarding Hybrid Optoelectronic Network-on-Chip systems, such as congestion control, their limited adaptability, and their inability to facilitate optoelectronic co-simulation, this study introduces an adaptive hybrid optoelectronic interconnection shunt structure tailored for reconfigurable array processors. Within this framework, an adaptive shunt routing algorithm and a low-loss non-blocking five-port optical router are developed. Furthermore, an adaptive hybrid optoelectronic interconnection simulation model and a performance statistical model, established using SystemVerilog and Verilog, complement these designs. The experimental results showcase promising enhancements: the designed routing algorithm demonstrates an average 17.5% improvement in mitigating congestion at network edge nodes; substantial reductions in the required number of cross waveguides and micro-ring resonators for optical routers lead to an average path insertion loss of only 0.522 dB. Moreover, the hybrid optoelectronic interconnection performance statistical model supports the design of routing strategies and topology structures, enabling resource usage, power consumption, insertion loss, and other performance metrics to be accurately assessed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Configurable Computing Systems for Enhanced Industrial Communication)
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18 pages, 5491 KiB  
Article
FATE: A Flexible FPGA-Based Automatic Test Equipment for Digital ICs
by Jin Zhang, Zhenghui Liu, Xiao Hu, Peixin Liu, Zhiling Hu and Lidan Kuang
Electronics 2024, 13(9), 1667; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13091667 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The limits of chip technology are constantly being pushed with the continuous development of integrated circuit manufacturing processes and equipment. Currently, chips contain several billion, and even tens of billions, of transistors, making chip testing increasingly challenging. The verification of very large-scale integrated [...] Read more.
The limits of chip technology are constantly being pushed with the continuous development of integrated circuit manufacturing processes and equipment. Currently, chips contain several billion, and even tens of billions, of transistors, making chip testing increasingly challenging. The verification of very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSI) requires testing on specialized automatic test equipment (ATE), but their cost and size significantly limit their applicability. The current FPGA-based ATE is limited in its scalability and support for few test channels and short test vector lengths. As a result, it is only suitable for testing specific chips in small-scale circuits and cannot be used to test VLSI. This paper proposes a low-cost hardware and software solution for testing digital integrated circuits based on design for testability (DFT) on chips, which enables the functional and performance test of the chip. The solution proposed can effectively use the resources within the FPGA to provide additional test channels. Furthermore, the round-robin data transmission mode can also support test vectors of any length and it can satisfy different types of chip test projects through the dynamic configuration of each test channel. The experiment successfully tested a digital signal processor (DSP) chip with 72 scan test pins (theoretically supporting 160 test pins). Compared to our previous work, the work in this paper increases the number of test channels by four times while reducing resource utilization per channel by 37.5%, demonstrating good scalability and versatility. Full article
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15 pages, 262 KiB  
Article
Nutritional Profiles and Their Links to Insulin Resistance and Anthropometric Variables in a Female Cohort
by Katarzyna Wiśniewska-Ślepaczuk, Karolina Żak-Kowalska, Adrian Moskal, Sebastian Kowalski, Ahmed M. Al-Wathinani, Mousa Alhajlah, Krzysztof Goniewicz and Mariusz Goniewicz
Metabolites 2024, 14(5), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo14050252 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between dietary habits and metabolic health among women, emphasizing the role of anthropometric parameters as proxies for insulin resistance. We analyzed data from 443 women categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of clinically diagnosed [...] Read more.
This study investigates the relationship between dietary habits and metabolic health among women, emphasizing the role of anthropometric parameters as proxies for insulin resistance. We analyzed data from 443 women categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of clinically diagnosed insulin resistance. Our assessments included dietary quality, socio-demographic characteristics, and a series of anthropometric measurements such as body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), Abdominal Volume Index (AVI), and Body Adiposity Index (BAI). The results indicated significant disparities in these parameters, with the insulin-resistant group exhibiting higher average body weight (78.92 kg vs. 65.04 kg, p < 0.001), BMI (28.45 kg/m2 vs. 23.17 kg/m2, p < 0.001), and other related measures, suggesting a strong influence of dietary patterns on body composition and metabolic risk. The study underscores the importance of dietary management in addressing insulin resistance, advocating for personalized dietary strategies to improve metabolic health outcomes in women. This approach highlights the need for integrating dietary changes with lifestyle modifications and socio-demographic considerations to combat metabolic risks effectively. Full article
17 pages, 1250 KiB  
Article
Aquaculture Performance and Genetic Diversity of a New [(Crassostrea hongkongensis ♀ × C. gigas ♂) ♂ × C. hongkongensis ♀] Variety of the Oyster “South China No. 1” in Beibu Gulf, China
by Zonglu Wei, Yanping Qin, Haoxiang Liu, Qinggan Xing, Ziniu Yu, Yuehuan Zhang and Ying Pan
Biology 2024, 13(5), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050297 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Crassostrea hongkongensis is an economically important bivalve found in various parts of the South China Sea. A new interspecific backcross ([(Crassostrea hongkongensis ♀ × C. gigas ♂) ♂ × C. hongkongensis ♀]) variety was bred by the South China Sea Institute [...] Read more.
Crassostrea hongkongensis is an economically important bivalve found in various parts of the South China Sea. A new interspecific backcross ([(Crassostrea hongkongensis ♀ × C. gigas ♂) ♂ × C. hongkongensis ♀]) variety was bred by the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology which named “South China No. 1”. This study aims to explore the effects of stocking density on the growth performance of “South China No. 1”, compared their growth performance and genetic diversity to C. hongkongensis, and found the best place breeding site for “South China No. 1” in Beibu Gulf. The results showed that stocking a density of 20 oysters/substrate can significantly increase the shell height, shell width, total weight, survival rate, daily shell height gain and daily body mass gain. It was found that the shell height and total weight of “South China No. 1” cultured in Fangchenggang were significantly higher than that of those in Beihai and Qinzhou from September 2018 to November 2018. Similarly, the shell width of oysters in Fangchenggang and Qinzhou was also significantly higher in September 2018, and the interaction between site and stocking density had significant effects on the shell width in March 2018 and November 2018. In addition, the shell height and shell width of “South China No. 1” were significantly higher than that of C. hongkongensis in all three sites. At all three sites, the phytoplankton community structure was mostly dominated by Bacillariophyta. In the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium test, for the seven populations and ten microsatellites, in 10 of the 70 groups, the segregation distortion was significant. These results suggest that a stocking density of 20 oysters/substrate can promote the shell height, shell width and total weight of “South China No. 1” in Beibu Gulf, China. “South China No. 1” has better growth performance compared with C. hongkongensis. Fangchenggang is a suitable place to cultivate the “South China No. 1” breed according to the total weight and sum of all algal genus abundances. The results of this study can be used as a reference to further understand the stocking density and genetic diversity of the “South China No. 1” breed in Beibu Gulf, China. Full article
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26 pages, 1978 KiB  
Systematic Review
Evaluating the Metabolomic Profile and Anti-Pathogenic Properties of Cannabis Species
by Shadrack Monyela, Prudence Ngalula Kayoka, Wonder Ngezimana and Lufuno Ethel Nemadodzi
Metabolites 2024, 14(5), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo14050253 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Cannabis species is one of the potent ancient medicinal plants acclaimed for its medicinal properties and recreational purposes. The plant parts are used and exploited all over the world for several agricultural and industrial applications. For many years Cannabis spp. has proven [...] Read more.
The Cannabis species is one of the potent ancient medicinal plants acclaimed for its medicinal properties and recreational purposes. The plant parts are used and exploited all over the world for several agricultural and industrial applications. For many years Cannabis spp. has proven to present a highly diverse metabolomic profile with a pool of bioactive metabolites used for numerous pharmacological purposes ranging from anti-inflammatory to antimicrobial. Cannabis sativa has since been an extensive subject of investigation, monopolizing the research. Hence, there are fewer studies with a comprehensive understanding of the composition of bioactive metabolites grown in different environmental conditions, especially C. indica and a few other Cannabis strains. These pharmacological properties are mostly attributed to a few phytocannabinoids and some phytochemicals such as terpenoids or essential oils which have been tested for antimicrobial properties. Many other discovered compounds are yet to be tested for antimicrobial properties. These phytochemicals have a series of useful properties including anti-insecticidal, anti-acaricidal, anti-nematicidal, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. Research studies have reported excellent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative multidrug-resistant bacteria as well as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Although there has been an extensive investigation on the antimicrobial properties of Cannabis, the antimicrobial properties of Cannabis on phytopathogens and aquatic animal pathogens, mostly those affecting fish, remain under-researched. Therefore, the current review intends to investigate the existing body of research on metabolomic profile and anti-microbial properties whilst trying to expand the scope of the properties of the Cannabis plant to benefit the health of other animal species and plant crops, particularly in agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolomics in Plant Natural Products Research)
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