The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
21 pages, 924 KiB  
Article
Mathematics in Art and History Museums: An Informal Mathematics Education Case for Teachers’ In-Service Training
by Raffaele Casi and Cristina Sabena
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050489 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Recognizing the omnipresence of mathematics across various contexts, this paper addresses the untapped potential of museums as rich venues for informal mathematics learning beyond traditional educational settings like classrooms. This paper presents the InformalMath program, designed for the professional development of primary and [...] Read more.
Recognizing the omnipresence of mathematics across various contexts, this paper addresses the untapped potential of museums as rich venues for informal mathematics learning beyond traditional educational settings like classrooms. This paper presents the InformalMath program, designed for the professional development of primary and middle school teachers using integrating mathematics education within art and history museums through designing mathematics visit workshops. Specifically, the focus is placed on Phase 1 of the program, in which teachers participated in two informal mathematics education workshops at two museums in Turin, Italy, and were asked to reflect on their participation through a written essay. The analysis of the essays reveals significant engagement, appreciation of mathematics as a cultural artifact, and the emergence of creativity and inclusion among participating teachers. These findings highlight the benefits of such interdisciplinary approaches in enhancing mathematical understanding and pedagogical strategies. Conclusions emphasize the program’s success in not only enriching teachers’ instructional repertoire but also in promoting a more holistic, engaging, and contextualized approach to mathematics education, suggesting a promising avenue for future educational practices and research in informal learning environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methodological Issues in STE(A)M Education)
21 pages, 8621 KiB  
Article
Drivers of Spontaneous Plant Communities in Urban Parks: A Case from Nanjing, China
by Wenjie Xu, Wenjing Dai, Yanfen Ding, Shanshan Song, Qian Liu and Wei Yang
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3841; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093841 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Urban plant diversity is one of the key elements for sustainable urban development. Urban plant landscapes not only create a variety of experiences for residents but also have a positive effect on their physiology and psychology. In order to better introduce nature into [...] Read more.
Urban plant diversity is one of the key elements for sustainable urban development. Urban plant landscapes not only create a variety of experiences for residents but also have a positive effect on their physiology and psychology. In order to better introduce nature into urban green spaces, this study conducted a field survey in Nanjing, China, to analyze the current situation of spontaneous plants in Nanjing’s urban green spaces and propose a plant planning strategy that takes into account both ecology and residents’ well-being. This study surveyed the herbaceous plant resources in 96 sample plots in nine typical urban parks in Nanjing, and recorded 284 plant species in 192 genera and 78 families. The research results show that the differences in plant diversity, richness, and evenness among urban parks in Nanjing are significant; combined with cluster analysis and ranking results, the total area of urban parks, green space construction time, lighting conditions, and management frequency have an impact on plant communities. Further analysis of the species composition of plant communities showed that moderate management frequency in urban parks can increase plant diversity. With the advantages of both high ecological benefits and low management costs, a model of “artificial plants + native spontaneous plants” was finally proposed for the planting of herbaceous plants in sustainable urban green spaces. Full article
18 pages, 528 KiB  
Article
Dual-driven Learning-Based Multiple-Input Multiple-Output Signal Detection Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Air-to-Ground Communications
by Haihan Li , Yongming He , Shuntian Zheng , Fan Zhou  and Hongwen Yang 
Drones 2024, 8(5), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones8050180 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) air-to-ground (AG) communication plays a critical role in the evolving space–air–ground integrated network of the upcoming sixth-generation cellular network (6G). The integration of massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems has become essential for ensuring optimal performing communication technologies. This article [...] Read more.
Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) air-to-ground (AG) communication plays a critical role in the evolving space–air–ground integrated network of the upcoming sixth-generation cellular network (6G). The integration of massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems has become essential for ensuring optimal performing communication technologies. This article presents a novel dual-driven learning-based network for millimeter-wave (mm-wave) massive MIMO symbol detection of UAV AG communications. Our main contribution is that the proposed approach combines a data-driven symbol-correction network with a model-driven orthogonal approximate message passing network (OAMP-Net). Through joint training, the dual-driven network reduces symbol detection errors propagated through each iteration of the model-driven OAMP-Net. The numerical results demonstrate the superiority of the dual-driven detector over the conventional minimum mean square error (MMSE), orthogonal approximate message passing (OAMP), and OAMP-Net detectors at various noise powers and channel estimation errors. The dual-driven MIMO detector exhibits a 2–3 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) requirement compared to the MMSE and OAMP-Net detectors to achieve a bit error rate (BER) of 1×102 when the channel estimation error is −30 dB. Moreover, the dual-driven MIMO detector exhibits an increased tolerance to channel estimation errors by 2–3 dB to achieve a BER of 1×103. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Detection, Security, and Communication for UAV)
9 pages, 385 KiB  
Article
Post-Conization HPV Vaccination and Its Impact on Viral Status: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Troms and Finnmark, 2022
by Marie Rykkelid, Helga Marie Wennberg, Elin Richardsen and Sveinung Wergeland Sørbye
Pathogens 2024, 13(5), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13050381 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with cellular changes in the cervix leading to cancer, which highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing HPV infections and subsequent cellular changes. Women undergoing the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), a treatment for high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia [...] Read more.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with cellular changes in the cervix leading to cancer, which highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing HPV infections and subsequent cellular changes. Women undergoing the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), a treatment for high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2+), remain at risk of recurrence. This study assessed the effect of post-conization HPV vaccination on the viral status of women at six months post-conization, aiming to evaluate the vaccine’s effectiveness in preventing recurrence of CIN2+. A retrospective cohort study was conducted among women in Troms and Finnmark who underwent conization in 2022. Using the SymPathy database and the national vaccination register (SYSVAK), we analyzed the vaccination statuses and HPV test results of women born before 1991, who had not received the HPV vaccine prior to conization. Out of 419 women undergoing conization, 243 met the inclusion criteria. A significant association was found between post-conization HPV vaccination and a negative HPV test at six months of follow-up (ARR = 12.1%, p = 0.039). Post-conization HPV vaccination significantly reduced the risk of a positive HPV test at the first follow-up, suggesting its potential in preventing the recurrence of high-grade cellular changes. However, the retrospective design and the insufficient control of confounding variables in this study underscore the need for further studies to confirm these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viral Infections of Humans: Epidemiology and Control)
25 pages, 951 KiB  
Article
A Conditionally Activated Cytosol-Penetrating Antibody for TME-Dependent Intracellular Cargo Delivery
by Carolin Sophie Dombrowsky, Dominic Happel, Jan Habermann, Sarah Hofmann, Sasi Otmi, Benny Cohen and Harald Kolmar
Antibodies 2024, 13(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/antib13020037 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Currently, therapeutic and diagnostic applications of antibodies are primarily limited to cell surface-exposed and extracellular proteins. However, research has been conducted on cell-penetrating peptides (CPP), as well as cytosol-penetrating antibodies, to overcome these limitations. In this context, a heparin sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG)-binding antibody [...] Read more.
Currently, therapeutic and diagnostic applications of antibodies are primarily limited to cell surface-exposed and extracellular proteins. However, research has been conducted on cell-penetrating peptides (CPP), as well as cytosol-penetrating antibodies, to overcome these limitations. In this context, a heparin sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG)-binding antibody was serendipitously discovered, which eventually localizes to the cytosol of target cells. Functional characterization revealed that the tested antibody has beneficial cytosol-penetrating capabilities and can deliver cargo proteins (up to 70 kDa) to the cytosol. To achieve tumor-specific cell targeting and cargo delivery through conditional activation of the cell-penetrating antibody in the tumor microenvironment, a single-chain Fc fragment (scFv) and a VL domain were isolated as masking units. Several in vitro assays demonstrated that fusing the masking protein with a cleavable linker to the cell penetration antibody results in the inactivation of antibody cell binding and internalization. Removal of the mask via MMP-9 protease cleavage, a protease that is frequently overexpressed in the tumor microenvironment (TME), led to complete regeneration of binding and cytosol-penetrating capabilities. Masked and conditionally activated cytosol-penetrating antibodies have the potential to serve as a modular platform for delivering protein cargoes addressing intracellular targets in tumor cells. Full article
18 pages, 2973 KiB  
Article
Cadmium Yellow Pigments in Oil Paintings: Optical Degradation Studies Utilizing 3D Fluorescence Mapping Supported by Raman Spectroscopy and Colorimetry
by Francesca A. Pisu, Carlo Maria Carbonaro, Pier Carlo Ricci, Stefania Porcu and Daniele Chiriu
Heritage 2024, 7(5), 2426-2443; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7050115 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
The degradation of cadmium yellow in paintings is influenced by various factors, primarily environmental conditions and light exposure. Applying a thin protective layer of linseed oil on the surface could help mitigate these processes. Linseed oil, being a natural material, acts as a [...] Read more.
The degradation of cadmium yellow in paintings is influenced by various factors, primarily environmental conditions and light exposure. Applying a thin protective layer of linseed oil on the surface could help mitigate these processes. Linseed oil, being a natural material, acts as a barrier against harmful atmospheric agents like moisture and oxygen, which contribute to the degradation of pigments including cadmium yellow. Additionally, linseed oil reduces direct light exposure, thereby lowering the risk of fading and color alteration. In this study, we explored the degradation of cadmium pigments mixed with oil and applied on canvas. We elucidated how the use of a binder prevents the direct oxidation of the pigment, inducing artificial degradation by irradiating samples with UVA (365 nm) and UVC (250 nm) sources. By employing various spectroscopic techniques such as three-dimensional fluorescence mapping (PLE) and Raman, along with colorimetric analysis, we gained a comprehensive understanding of the degradation process, particularly when linseed oil serves as a protective layer. Full article
13 pages, 2631 KiB  
Article
Weldability and Mechanical Properties of Pure Copper Foils Welded by Blue Diode Laser
by Tim Pasang, Shumpei Fujio, Pai-Chen Lin, Yuan Tao, Mao Sudo, Travis Kuendig, Yuji Sato and Masahiro Tsukamoto
Materials 2024, 17(9), 2140; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17092140 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
The need to manufacture components out of copper is significantly increasing, particularly in the solar technology, semiconductor, and electric vehicle sectors. In the past few decades, infrared laser (IR) and green laser (GL) have been the primary technologies used to address this demand, [...] Read more.
The need to manufacture components out of copper is significantly increasing, particularly in the solar technology, semiconductor, and electric vehicle sectors. In the past few decades, infrared laser (IR) and green laser (GL) have been the primary technologies used to address this demand, especially for small or thin components. However, with the increased demand for energy saving, alternative joint techniques such as blue diode laser (BDL) are being actively explored. In this paper, bead-on-plate welding experiments on 0.2 mm thick pure copper samples employing a BDL are presented. Two sets of parameters were carefully selected in this investigation, namely Cu-1: Power (P) = 200 W; Speed (s) = 1 mm/s; and angle = 0°, and Cu-2: P = 200 W; s = 5 mm/s; and angle = 10°. The results from both sets of parameters produced defect-free full penetration welds. Hardness test results indicated relatively softer weld zones compared with the base metal. Tensile test samples fractured in the weld zones. Overall, the samples welded with Cu-1 parameters showed better mechanical properties, such as strength and elongation, than those welded with the Cu-2 parameters. The tensile strength and elongation obtained from Cu-1 were marginally lower than those of the unwelded pure copper. The outcomes from this research provide an alternative welding technique that is able to produce reliable, strong, and precise joints, particularly for small and thin components, which can be very challenging to produce. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Welding, Joining, and Additive Manufacturing of Metals and Alloys)
26 pages, 9346 KiB  
Article
Developing a Bankruptcy Theory to Resolve Stakeholders’ Conflict over Optimal Water Allocation: The Case of Hirmand Catchment
by Ali Sardar Shahraki, Vijay P. Singh and Ommolbanin Bazrafshan
Water 2024, 16(9), 1303; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16091303 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
The growing increase in demand for water and the lack of balance between water supply and demand have led to conflicts among the downstream stakeholders of the international Hirmand River. This river is shared between Iran and Afghanistan and is located in the [...] Read more.
The growing increase in demand for water and the lack of balance between water supply and demand have led to conflicts among the downstream stakeholders of the international Hirmand River. This river is shared between Iran and Afghanistan and is located in the southeast of Iran, in the Sistan region. The Vardkhaneh is divided into two branches, Parian and Sistan, and it is the only main source of water in the Sistan region of Iran. The inner part of Hirmand catchment is considered bankrupt concerning its water resources, so there is a need to take the current status and resulting issues into account in order to resolve conflicts. In Hirmand catchment, four different games of bankruptcy theory, namely proportional (Pr), adjusted proportional (AP), constrained equal award (CEA), and constrained equal losses (CEL), were developed as optimization models based on genetic algorithms. For this purpose, the catchment was simulated with 26 scenarios using the WEAP 2022 version software for an average time period. The results of the bankruptcy game modeling showed that water could be effectively allocated to resolve conflicts among stakeholders. It is therefore recommended to use such a model to resolve fights and optimally allocate resources, even in bankrupt catchments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Resources Management, Policy and Governance)
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21 pages, 4367 KiB  
Article
Walking in Tandem with the City: Exploring the Influence of Public Art on Encouraging Urban Pedestrianism within the 15-Minute Community Living Circle in Shanghai
by Ran Tan, Yu Wu and Suhui Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3839; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093839 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
As a new urban model, the 15-min city has gradually become a touchstone with which to measure the future sustainability of cities. With a time-limited planning of urban living circles, urban residents can be allowed to access basic daily needs, such as food, [...] Read more.
As a new urban model, the 15-min city has gradually become a touchstone with which to measure the future sustainability of cities. With a time-limited planning of urban living circles, urban residents can be allowed to access basic daily needs, such as food, health and education, while walking or cycling, thus reducing motor traffic and carbon dioxide emissions and contributing to the improvement of people’s well-being and the environmental climate. Within the temporal and spatial confines of the 15-min living sphere, governmental authorities and community bodies commonly integrate public art installations into public spaces to enrich spatial dynamics, cultivate cultural identities, enhance environmental aesthetics, elevate service quality, and foster communal interactions. This study aims to probe into the impact of public art on encouraging urban pedestrianism within the specific context of the 15-min community living sphere along the Suzhou River in northern Shanghai. Drawing upon Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) theory, a theoretical framework is constructed to unravel the mechanisms by which public art influences residents’ propensity for walking, encompassing the attributes of public art, perceived value, and walking intention. Employing Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), the model is analyzed to scrutinize the proposed hypotheses. Through this research, we establish and substantiate a novel and pertinent theoretical perspective for advancing human-centric and sustainable urban regeneration. The findings underscore that integrating public art within the framework of constructing 15-min community living spheres contributes to catalyzing proactive urban pedestrianism by enhancing its value proposition. Full article
14 pages, 1524 KiB  
Article
Biosensor-Based Assessment of Pesticides and Mineral Fertilizers’ Influence on Ecotoxicological Parameters of Soils under Soya, Sunflower and Wheat
by Ludmila Khmelevtsova, Maria Klimova, Shorena Karchava, Tatiana Azhogina, Elena Polienko, Alla Litsevich, Elena Chernyshenko, Margarita Khammami, Ivan Sazykin and Marina Sazykina
Chemosensors 2024, 12(5), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors12050073 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Pesticides and fertilizers used in agriculture can negatively affect the soil, increasing its toxicity. In this work, a battery of whole-cell bacterial lux-biosensors based on the E. coli MG1655 strain with various inducible promoters, as well as the natural luminous Vibrio aquamarinus VKPM [...] Read more.
Pesticides and fertilizers used in agriculture can negatively affect the soil, increasing its toxicity. In this work, a battery of whole-cell bacterial lux-biosensors based on the E. coli MG1655 strain with various inducible promoters, as well as the natural luminous Vibrio aquamarinus VKPM B-11245 strain, were used to assess the effects of agrochemical soil treatments. The advantages of using biosensors are sensitivity, specificity, low cost of analysis, and the ability to assess the total effect of toxicants on a living cell and the type of their toxic effect. Using the V. aquamarinus VKPM B-11245 strain, the synergistic effect of combined soil treatment with pesticides and mineral fertilizers was shown, which led to an increase in the overall (integral) toxicity of soils higher than that of the individual application of substances. Several probable implementation mechanisms of agrochemical toxic effects have been discovered. DNA damage caused by both SOS response induction and alkylation, oxidative stress due to increased superoxide levels, and damage to cellular proteins and membranes are among them. Thus, the usage of biosensors makes it possible to assess the cumulative effect of various toxicants on living organisms without using expensive chemical analyses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemiluminescent and Bioluminescent Sensors)
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15 pages, 1496 KiB  
Article
Phenomenal Socialism
by Sophie Grace Chappell
Philosophies 2024, 9(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/philosophies9030063 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Phenomenal socialism says that what we actually, directly, literally perceive is only or primarily instances of high-level phenomenal properties; this paper argues for phenomenal socialism in the weaker, primarily version. Phenomenal socialism is the philosophy of perception that goes with recognitionalism, which is [...] Read more.
Phenomenal socialism says that what we actually, directly, literally perceive is only or primarily instances of high-level phenomenal properties; this paper argues for phenomenal socialism in the weaker, primarily version. Phenomenal socialism is the philosophy of perception that goes with recognitionalism, which is the metaethics that goes with epiphanies. The first part states the recognitionalist manifesto. The second part situates this manifesto relative to some more global concerns, about naturalism, perception, the metaphysics of value, and theory vs. anti-theory in ethics. The third part rehearses two familiar views about the possible contents of perceptual experience, Phenomenal Conservativism and Phenomenal Liberalism. It notes that the usual catalogue omits two other theoretical possibilities, Phenomenal Socialism and Phenomenal Nihilism, and it defends a watered-down form of Phenomenal Socialism from four main objections. The fourth part makes some connections with the epistemology of modality and with the role of the imagination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Moral Perception)
21 pages, 4602 KiB  
Review
Effects of Cryogenic- and Cool-Assisted Burnishing on the Surface Integrity and Operating Behavior of Metal Components: A Review and Perspectives
by Jordan Maximov and Galya Duncheva
Machines 2024, 12(5), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12050312 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
When placed under cryogenic temperatures (below −180 °C), metallic materials undergo structural changes that can improve their service life. This process, known as cryogenic treatment (CrT), has received extensive research attention over the past five decades. CrT can be applied as either an [...] Read more.
When placed under cryogenic temperatures (below −180 °C), metallic materials undergo structural changes that can improve their service life. This process, known as cryogenic treatment (CrT), has received extensive research attention over the past five decades. CrT can be applied as either an autonomous process (for steels and non-ferrous alloys, tool materials, and finished products) or as an assisting process for conventional metalworking. Cryogenic impacts and conventional machining or static surface cold working (SCW) can also be performed simultaneously in hybrid processes. The static SCW, known as burnishing, is a widely used environmentally friendly finishing process that achieves high-quality surfaces of metal components. The present review is dedicated to the portion of the hybrid processes in which burnishing under cryogenic conditions is carried out from the viewpoint of surface engineering, namely, finishing–surface integrity (SI)–operational behavior. Analyzes and summaries of the effects of cryogenic-assisted (CrA) burnishing on SI and the operational behavior of the investigated materials are made, and perspectives for future research are proposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Manufacturing and Surface Technology)
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18 pages, 742 KiB  
Article
Cephalometric Screening Assessment for Superior Airway Space Narrowing—Added Value of Three-Dimensional Imaging
by Axel Meisgeier, Florian Dürrschnabel, Simon Pienkohs, Annabell Weiser and Andreas Neff
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2685; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092685 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Assessing the morphology of the superior airway space is a crucial diagnostic step in the treatment planning of patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) or prior to orthognathic surgery. The aim of this study is to evaluate the necessary scope of a [...] Read more.
Assessing the morphology of the superior airway space is a crucial diagnostic step in the treatment planning of patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) or prior to orthognathic surgery. The aim of this study is to evaluate the necessary scope of a two-dimensional cephalometric assessment and the necessity of three-dimensional imaging in the identification of superior airway space narrowing (SASN). Methods: The computed tomography studies of 100 non-obese, non-OSAS patients were evaluated and analyzed retrospectively. Multiplanar reconstructions were created and underwent cephalometric evaluation. The three-dimensional superior airway morphology was segmented and measured for the minimal cross-sectional area (Amin) and volume (V0). Patients were grouped according to Amin < 80 mm2 and V0 < 12 cm3. Cephalometric parameters (CPs) were analyzed according to Amin and V0 with an unpaired t-test, Pearson correlation, and ROC-curve analysis. Results: The CPs regarding sagittal airway space dimensions (IPAS, MPAS, SPAS) and mandibular body length (GoGn) show the strongest correlation to the three-dimensional minimal cross-sectional area (Amin). The ROC-curve analysis classifying for SASN led to an AUC of 0.86 for IPAS, 0.87 for MPAS, 0.88 for SPAS, and 0.63 for GoGn. Three-dimensional imaging may further improve the diagnostic accuracy in the identification of SASN for IPAS below 13.5 mm, MPAS below 10.2 mm, SPAS below 12.5 mm, and GoGn below 90.2 mm. Conclusions: Two-dimensional cephalometric sagittal airway space diameters and mandibular body length are useful initial screening parameters in the identification of superior airway space narrowing. Nevertheless, as the correlation of two-dimensional cephalometric parameters with three-dimensional upper airway space narrowing is varying and highly dependent on acquisition circumstances, indications for three-dimensional imaging, if possible, in the supine position to evaluate upper airway space morphology should be provided generously, especially in patients with low but normal airway space parameters in two-dimensional cephalometry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Trends in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery)
14 pages, 642 KiB  
Article
Changes of Solitude Behaviors among College Students: A Latent Transition Analysis
by Tour Liu, Fuyu Wan and Xurong Lu
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050385 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Solitude behaviors encompass four types: positive solitude, eccentricity, social avoidance, and loneliness. These four types of solitude behaviors are not entirely independent but can co-occur within individuals. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore latent classes of solitude behaviors, their developmental [...] Read more.
Solitude behaviors encompass four types: positive solitude, eccentricity, social avoidance, and loneliness. These four types of solitude behaviors are not entirely independent but can co-occur within individuals. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore latent classes of solitude behaviors, their developmental patterns, and relevant influencing factors among college students. The Solitude Behavior Scale—Short Version was administered to a sample of college students. A total of 417 Chinese students completed a three-time longitudinal paper questionnaire. The data analysis was performed using Mplus 8.0 and SPSS 26.0. Harman’s single-factor test, latent class analysis (LCA), and latent transition analysis (LTA) were employed for subsequent analysis. The results revealed three classes: low solitude, moderate solitude, and high solitude, which exhibited temporal changes. Social avoidance and loneliness could facilitate transitions between high solitude and moderate solitude. Females and first-grade students exhibited higher transition probabilities than males and students not in the first grade. The incidence of moderate solitude in the not-first-grade group was significantly higher than that in the first-grade group. Finally, this study offers new insights into the dynamics of solitude behaviors and their association with gender and age. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Positive Psychology Interventions in Schools)
18 pages, 593 KiB  
Article
What Is Necessary for Digital Transformation of Large Manufacturing Companies? A Necessary Condition Analysis
by Ziye Zhang, Meiying Wu and Jiajie Yin
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3837; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093837 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Digital transformation is of significant importance to the sustainable development of manufacturing companies and the construction of the digital economy. However, this major change is often hindered by numerous complex antecedents. What are the key factors in the digital transformation of manufacturing companies, [...] Read more.
Digital transformation is of significant importance to the sustainable development of manufacturing companies and the construction of the digital economy. However, this major change is often hindered by numerous complex antecedents. What are the key factors in the digital transformation of manufacturing companies, and what is their relative importance? Accordingly, this paper identifies the key factors for digital transformation in large manufacturing companies from the “Ability–Motivation–Opportunity” (AMO) perspective. This study uses a necessary condition analysis (NCA) to conduct a necessity causality study on data collected from 67 listed Chinese manufacturing companies between 2016 and 2020. The results show that the digital transformation of large manufacturing companies is influenced by four necessary conditions: managerial myopia, industry concentration (very large effect), dynamic capabilities, and industrial digitalization (large effect). Managerial myopia and industry concentration have a negative necessary impact on digital transformation. The types of conditions and the level of bottlenecks required at different stages of digital transformation vary significantly. This study reveals the necessary causal relationships between organizational abilities, motivation, external opportunities, and digital transformation, providing empirical evidence to promote the digital transformation practices of manufacturing companies. Full article
24 pages, 8657 KiB  
Article
A Tumor-Specific Molecular Network Promotes Tumor Growth in Drosophila by Enforcing a Jun N-Terminal Kinase–Yorkie Feedforward Loop
by Indrayani Waghmare, Karishma Gangwani, Arushi Rai, Amit Singh and Madhuri Kango-Singh
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1768; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091768 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Cancer cells expand rapidly in response to altered intercellular and signaling interactions to achieve the hallmarks of cancer. Impaired cell polarity combined with activated oncogenes is known to promote several hallmarks of cancer, e.g., activating invasion by increased activity of Jun N-terminal kinase [...] Read more.
Cancer cells expand rapidly in response to altered intercellular and signaling interactions to achieve the hallmarks of cancer. Impaired cell polarity combined with activated oncogenes is known to promote several hallmarks of cancer, e.g., activating invasion by increased activity of Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and sustained proliferative signaling by increased activity of Hippo effector Yorkie (Yki). Thus, JNK, Yki, and their downstream transcription factors have emerged as synergistic drivers of tumor growth through pro-tumor signaling and intercellular interactions like cell competition. However, little is known about the signals that converge onto JNK and Yki in tumor cells and enable tumor cells to achieve the hallmarks of cancer. Here, using mosaic models of cooperative oncogenesis (RasV12,scrib) in Drosophila, we show that RasV12,scrib tumor cells grow through the activation of a previously unidentified network comprising Wingless (Wg), Dronc, JNK, and Yki. We show that RasV12,scrib cells show increased Wg, Dronc, JNK, and Yki signaling, and all these signals are required for the growth of RasV12,scrib tumors. We report that Wg and Dronc converge onto a JNK–Yki self-reinforcing positive feedback signal-amplification loop that promotes tumor growth. We found that the Wg–Dronc–Yki–JNK molecular network is specifically activated in polarity-impaired tumor cells and not in normal cells, in which apical-basal polarity remains intact. Our findings suggest that the identification of molecular networks may provide significant insights into the key biologically meaningful changes in signaling pathways and paradoxical signals that promote tumorigenesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Pathophysiology)
13 pages, 1281 KiB  
Article
Natural Antibodies Produced in Vaccinated Patients and COVID-19 Convalescents Hydrolyze Recombinant RBD and Nucleocapsid (N) Proteins
by Anna M. Timofeeva, Liliya Sh. Shayakhmetova, Artem O. Nikitin, Tatyana A. Sedykh, Andrey L. Matveev, Daniil V. Shanshin, Ekaterina A. Volosnikova, Iuliia A. Merkuleva, Dmitriy N. Shcherbakov, Nina V. Tikunova, Sergey E. Sedykh and Georgy A. Nevinsky
Biomedicines 2024, 12(5), 1007; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12051007 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Antibodies are protein molecules whose primary function is to recognize antigens. However, recent studies have demonstrated their ability to hydrolyze specific substrates, such as proteins, oligopeptides, and nucleic acids. In 2023, two separate teams of researchers demonstrated the proteolytic activity of natural plasma [...] Read more.
Antibodies are protein molecules whose primary function is to recognize antigens. However, recent studies have demonstrated their ability to hydrolyze specific substrates, such as proteins, oligopeptides, and nucleic acids. In 2023, two separate teams of researchers demonstrated the proteolytic activity of natural plasma antibodies from COVID-19 convalescents. These antibodies were found to hydrolyze the S-protein and corresponding oligopeptides. Our study shows that for antibodies with affinity to recombinant structural proteins of the SARS-CoV-2: S-protein, its fragment RBD and N-protein can only hydrolyze the corresponding protein substrates and are not cross-reactive. By using strict criteria, we have confirmed that this proteolytic activity is an intrinsic property of antibodies and is not caused by impurities co-eluting with them. This discovery suggests that natural proteolytic antibodies that hydrolyze proteins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus may have a positive impact on disease pathogenesis. It is also possible for these antibodies to work in combination with other antibodies that bind specific epitopes to enhance the process of virus neutralization. Full article
17 pages, 2688 KiB  
Review
Approaches for Enhancing Wastewater Treatment of Photocatalytic Fuel Cells: A Review
by Penghui Li, Xiaohan Zhou, Haoyi Yang, Yun He, Yujiao Kan, Yang Zhang, Yanan Shang, Yizhen Zhang, Xiaoqiang Cao and Michael K. H. Leung
Materials 2024, 17(9), 2139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17092139 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Environmental pollution and energy crises have garnered global attention. The substantial discharge of organic waste into water bodies has led to profound environmental contamination. Photocatalytic fuel cells (PFCs) enabling the simultaneous removal of refractory contaminants and recovery of the chemical energy contained in [...] Read more.
Environmental pollution and energy crises have garnered global attention. The substantial discharge of organic waste into water bodies has led to profound environmental contamination. Photocatalytic fuel cells (PFCs) enabling the simultaneous removal of refractory contaminants and recovery of the chemical energy contained in organic pollutants provides a potential strategy to solve environmental issues and the energy crisis. This review will discuss the fundamentals, working principle, and configuration development of PFCs and photocatalytic microbial fuel cells (PMFCs). We particularly focus on the strategies for improving the wastewater treatment performance of PFCs/PMFCs in terms of coupled advanced oxidation processes, the rational design of high-efficiency electrodes, and the strengthening of the mass transfer process. The significant potential of PFCs/PMFCs in various fields is further discussed in detail. This review is intended to provide some guidance for the better implementation and widespread adoption of PFC wastewater treatment technologies. Full article
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13 pages, 294 KiB  
Article
The Generalized Eta Transformation Formulas as the Hecke Modular Relation
by Nianliang Wang, Takako Kuzumaki and Shigeru Kanemitsu
Axioms 2024, 13(5), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms13050304 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
The transformation formula under the action of a general linear fractional transformation for a generalized Dedekind eta function has been the subject of intensive study since the works of Rademacher, Dieter, Meyer, and Schoenberg et al. However, the (Hecke) modular relation structure was [...] Read more.
The transformation formula under the action of a general linear fractional transformation for a generalized Dedekind eta function has been the subject of intensive study since the works of Rademacher, Dieter, Meyer, and Schoenberg et al. However, the (Hecke) modular relation structure was not recognized until the work of Goldstein-de la Torre, where the modular relations mean equivalent assertions to the functional equation for the relevant zeta functions. The Hecke modular relation is a special case of this, with a single gamma factor and the corresponding modular form (or in the form of Lambert series). This has been the strongest motivation for research in the theory of modular forms since Hecke’s work in the 1930s. Our main aim is to restore the fundamental work of Rademacher (1932) by locating the functional equation hidden in the argument and to reveal the Hecke correspondence in all subsequent works (which depend on the method of Rademacher) as well as in the work of Rademacher. By our elucidation many of the subsequent works will be made clear and put in their proper positions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Algebra and Number Theory)
27 pages, 6459 KiB  
Review
Cultural Routes as Cultural Tourism Products for Heritage Conservation and Regional Development: A Systematic Review
by Xinyue Lin, Zhenjiang Shen, Xiao Teng and Qizhi Mao
Heritage 2024, 7(5), 2399-2425; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7050114 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Cultural routes are a composite set of heritage sites that refer to historical routes of human communication. As key products of cultural tourism, they provide visitors with rich cultural experiences across regions. We systematically review reports and studies related to the tourism development [...] Read more.
Cultural routes are a composite set of heritage sites that refer to historical routes of human communication. As key products of cultural tourism, they provide visitors with rich cultural experiences across regions. We systematically review reports and studies related to the tourism development of 38 cultural route cases worldwide, with a special focus on their distribution, typology, planning patterns, and tools for cultural tourism. We summarized eight tools and found some differences in how often these eight tools are used by the different types of routes and different planning patterns for route tourism. This study also developed an evaluation system based on the conservation principles of cultural routes to determine how different tourism tools affect the conservation and development of historical regions. Although tourism decision-makers have made numerous efforts to protect and develop cultural routes, there are still many problems and challenges in the process of tourism development along cultural routes. We conclude the paper by making recommendations for decision-makers and researchers concerning future route tourism planning and study. Full article
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22 pages, 5052 KiB  
Article
Low-Cost, Open-Source, Experimental Setup Communication Platform for Emergencies, Based on SD-WAN Technology
by Vasileios Cheimaras, Spyridon Papagiakoumos, Nikolaos Peladarinos, Athanasios Trigkas, Panagiotis Papageorgas, Dimitrios D. Piromalis and Radu A. Munteanu
Telecom 2024, 5(2), 347-368; https://doi.org/10.3390/telecom5020018 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
The rapid advancement of communication technologies underscores the urgent need for robust and adaptable emergency communication systems (ECSs), particularly crucial during crises and natural disasters. Although network-based ECSs have been extensively studied, integrating open-source technologies, such as software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN) with [...] Read more.
The rapid advancement of communication technologies underscores the urgent need for robust and adaptable emergency communication systems (ECSs), particularly crucial during crises and natural disasters. Although network-based ECSs have been extensively studied, integrating open-source technologies, such as software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN) with private long-term evolution (LTE) base stations, is a relatively unexplored domain. This study endeavors to fill this gap by introducing an experimental ECS platform that utilizes a hybrid network, incorporating a VoIP network to enhance open-source and on-premises communications in targeted areas. Our hypothesis posits that a hybrid network architecture, combining SD-WAN and private LTE, can substantially improve the reliability and efficiency of ECSs. Our findings, supported by the open-source OMNeT++ simulator, illuminate the enhanced communication reliability of the network. Moreover, the proposed platform, characterized by autonomous wireless 4G/LTE base stations and an Asterisk VoIP server, demonstrates improved quality of service (QoS) and quality of experience (QoE), with minimal data loss. This research not only has immediate practical applications but also bears significant implications for the development of cost-effective, open-source communication networks, optimized for emergencies, critical infrastructure, and remote areas. Full article
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20 pages, 715 KiB  
Article
A MongoDB Document Reconstruction Support System Using Natural Language Processing
by Kohei Hamaji and Yukikazu Nakamoto
Software 2024, 3(2), 206-225; https://doi.org/10.3390/software3020010 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Document-oriented databases, a type of Not Only SQL (NoSQL) database, are gaining popularity owing to their flexibility in data handling and performance for large-scale data. MongoDB, a typical document-oriented database, is a database that stores data in the JSON format, where the upper [...] Read more.
Document-oriented databases, a type of Not Only SQL (NoSQL) database, are gaining popularity owing to their flexibility in data handling and performance for large-scale data. MongoDB, a typical document-oriented database, is a database that stores data in the JSON format, where the upper field involves lower fields and fields with the same related parent. One feature of this
document-oriented database is that data are dynamically stored in an arbitrary location without explicitly defining a schema in advance. This flexibility violates the above property and causes difficulties for application program readability and database maintenance. To address these issues, we propose a reconstruction support method for document structures in MongoDB. The method uses the strength of the Has-A relationship between the parent and child fields, as well as the similarity of field names in the MongoDB documents in natural language processing, to reconstruct the data structure in MongoDB. As a result, the method transforms the parent and child fields into more
coherent data structures. We evaluated our methods using real-world data and demonstrated their MongoDBeffectiveness. Full article
9 pages, 2638 KiB  
Case Report
Unusual Presentation of Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophicans Resulting in Delay of Diagnosis and Inappropriate Treatment in Three Cases
by Thilo Gambichler, Rim Jridi, Heinz-Wolfram Bernd, Andrea von Stemm and Stefanie Boms
Dermato 2024, 4(2), 37-45; https://doi.org/10.3390/dermato4020005 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA) is not an infrequent condition in Europe. However, the characteristic skin lesions are often confused by non-dermatologists with other conditions. We report three unusual cases in which we made a definitive diagnosis of ACA complicated by cutaneous marginal zone [...] Read more.
Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA) is not an infrequent condition in Europe. However, the characteristic skin lesions are often confused by non-dermatologists with other conditions. We report three unusual cases in which we made a definitive diagnosis of ACA complicated by cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma, juxta-articular fibrotic nodules, or bilateral sensory polyneuropathy. In all cases, correct diagnosis and adequate treatment was delayed over a period of at least 12 months. We initiated systemic antibiotics resulting in full recovery in these patients. The present case reports underscore that ACA may be associated with unusual clinical presentation which potentially result in delay of correct diagnosis and treatment. Hence, ACA diagnosis may be considerably delayed leading to inappropriate therapy exposure, prolonged patients’ suffering, and causing unnecessary cost. Thus, physicians who are not familiar with skin conditions should seek a timely consultation a dermatologist. Full article
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