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16 pages, 5760 KiB  
Article
Effect of Fucoidan on Structure and Bioactivity of Chinese Steamed Bread
by Qingyu Yang, Man Li, Chenqi Gu, Anni Lu, Lijun Dong, Xiling Zhang, Xiufa Hu, Yao Liu and Jun Lu
Foods 2024, 13(7), 1057; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071057 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Fucoidan refers to a group of sulphated polysaccharides obtained from brown seaweed, with numerous biological activities. In this study, fucoidan was fortified into Chinese steamed bread (CSB) at different concentrations (0, 1%, 3% and 5%) and the effect of fucoidan on the dough [...] Read more.
Fucoidan refers to a group of sulphated polysaccharides obtained from brown seaweed, with numerous biological activities. In this study, fucoidan was fortified into Chinese steamed bread (CSB) at different concentrations (0, 1%, 3% and 5%) and the effect of fucoidan on the dough properties, structure properties and bioactivity were investigated. The results showed that fucoidan could change the viscosity of unfermented dough, and a high concentration of fucoidan could remove the free radicals produced by the SH–SS exchange reaction (GS-) in the dough, which significantly reduced the content of disulfide bond and reduced the expanded volume of fermented dough (p < 0.05). In addition, fucoidan forms a physical barrier on the surface of starch particles and hinders the reaction between protein-to-protein; therefore, fucoidan increased the hardness, gumminess and chewiness in CSB, and reduced the specific volume in CSB. Furthermore, the fucoidan-fortified CSB samples were found to have both the ability to significantly reduce the predicted glycemic index (pGI) (p < 0.05) and improve antioxidant activity (p < 0.05). Collectively, these findings could provide a theoretical basis for the applications of fucoidan as a functional component in fermented foods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Starch and Food Processing: Structure, Functionality and Nutrition)
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15 pages, 1536 KiB  
Article
The Luminescence of Laser-Produced Carbon Nanodots: The Effect of Aggregation in PEI Solution
by Agata Kaczmarek, Agnieszka Wisniewska, Tomasz Mo?cicki and Jacek Hoffman
Materials 2024, 17(7), 1573; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071573 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Carbon nanodots (CNDs) produced in pure water by the ablation of graphite with a nanosecond laser pulse exhibit weak photoluminescence. A small addition of polyethyleneimine (PEI) to the aqueous suspension of CNDs causes a significant increase in emissions. This paper presents experimental and [...] Read more.
Carbon nanodots (CNDs) produced in pure water by the ablation of graphite with a nanosecond laser pulse exhibit weak photoluminescence. A small addition of polyethyleneimine (PEI) to the aqueous suspension of CNDs causes a significant increase in emissions. This paper presents experimental and theoretical studies of the emission properties of CND/PEI systems. The obtained CNDs responded to even trace amounts of PEI in solution (~0.014% v/v), resulting in a significant increase in the initial weak blue emission of CNDs and PEI taken separately. Morphology and size measurements showed that particle aggregation occurred in the presence of the polymer. A decrease in the calculated Stokes shift values was observed with increasing PEI content in the solution. This indicates a reduction in the number of non-radiative transitions, which explains the increase in the emission intensity of the CND/PEI systems. These results therefore confirmed that the increase in the emission of CND/PEI systems is caused by particle aggregation. Kinetic studies proved that the process is controlled mainly by diffusion, the initial stage of which has a dominant influence on determining the optical properties of the system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Carbon-Based Materials)
13 pages, 687 KiB  
Article
Non-Thermal Plasma Technology for Further Purification of Flue Gas in the Resource Utilization Process of Waste Mercury Catalyst: A Case Study in Xinjiang, China
by Qinzhong Feng, Kaiyue Wang, Shitong Yang, Jianbo Guo, Jun Chen, Tongzhe Wang, Liyuan Liu and Yang Chen
Processes 2024, 12(4), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12040691 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study aims to advance the recycling of mercury-containing waste and promote sustainable development within the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) industry. Our innovative system integrates pre-treatment technology (spraying potassium permanganate and demisting and dust removal) with efficient non-thermal plasma oxidation, resulting in excellent treatment [...] Read more.
This study aims to advance the recycling of mercury-containing waste and promote sustainable development within the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) industry. Our innovative system integrates pre-treatment technology (spraying potassium permanganate and demisting and dust removal) with efficient non-thermal plasma oxidation, resulting in excellent treatment efficiency, low cost, and simple operation. With a processing capacity of 3000 m3/h, the concentration of mercury emissions in flue gas can achieve the target of <0.01 mg/m3, boasting a removal efficiency exceeding 98%, which satisfies the standard “Emission standard of air pollutants for industrial kiln and furnace” (GB 9078-1996). Our results can provide technical support for the comprehensive purification of mercury-containing flue gas during the resource recovery process from mercury-containing waste. The application of our system can contribute to reducing mercury emissions in the PVC industry, lowering occupational exposure risks for workers, and promoting China’s better compliance with “the Minamata Convention on Mercury”. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental and Green Processes)
12 pages, 711 KiB  
Article
Spike-Specific Memory B Cell Response in Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Recipients following Multiple mRNA-1273 Vaccinations: A Longitudinal Observational Study
by Elena Pettini, Annalisa Ciabattini, Fabio Fiorino, Jacopo Polvere, Gabiria Pastore, Monica Tozzi, Francesca Montagnani, Giuseppe Marotta, Alessandro Bucalossi and Donata Medaglini
Vaccines 2024, 12(4), 368; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12040368 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection is of utmost importance in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation patients (allo-HCT), given their heightened susceptibility to adverse outcomes associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, limited data are available regarding the immune response to COVID-19 vaccines in these subjects, particularly concerning the [...] Read more.
Preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection is of utmost importance in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation patients (allo-HCT), given their heightened susceptibility to adverse outcomes associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, limited data are available regarding the immune response to COVID-19 vaccines in these subjects, particularly concerning the generation and persistence of spike-specific memory response. Here, we analyzed the spike-specific memory B cells in a cohort of allo-HCT recipients vaccinated with multiple doses of the mRNA-1273 vaccine and monitored the spike-specific antibody response from baseline up to one month after the fourth dose. After the primary vaccine series, the frequency of spike-specific B cells, detected within the pool of Ig-switched CD19+ cells, significantly increased. The booster dose further induced a significant expansion, reaching up to 0.28% of spike-specific B cells. The kinetics of this expansion were slower in the allo-HCT recipients compared to healthy controls. Spike-specific IgG and ACE2/RBD binding inhibition activity were observed in 80% of the allo-HCT recipients after the first two doses, with a significant increase after the third and fourth booster doses, including in the subjects who did not respond to the primary vaccine series. Additionally, 87% of the allo-HCT recipients exhibited positive cross-inhibition activity against the BA.1 variant. Our findings provide evidence that allo-HCT recipients need repeated doses of the mRNA-1273 vaccine to induceSARS-CoV-2 specific immune response similar to that observed in healthy individuals. This is particularly crucial for vulnerable individuals who may exhibit a limited response to the primary series of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Safety and Autoimmune Response to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination)
10 pages, 729 KiB  
Case Report
Successful Surgical Treatment of a Giant Intraventricular Meningioma: A Case Report and Literature Review
by Corneliu Toader, Razvan-Adrian Covache-Busuioc, Bogdan-Gabriel Bratu, Luca Andrei Glavan, Andrei Adrian Popa and Alexandru Vlad Ciurea
Medicina 2024, 60(4), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60040560 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In our study, we document the case of a 48-year-old patient who presented at our clinic with various neurological disturbances. Magnetic Resonance Imaging revealed the presence of an intraventricular meningioma located in the body of the left lateral ventricle measuring 60 mm in [...] Read more.
In our study, we document the case of a 48-year-old patient who presented at our clinic with various neurological disturbances. Magnetic Resonance Imaging revealed the presence of an intraventricular meningioma located in the body of the left lateral ventricle measuring 60 mm in diameter. This tumor was classified as a giant meningioma, accompanied by a significant amount of digitiform-type edema. A surgical procedure was conducted, resulting in a gross total resection of the tumor. Histopathological analysis identified the tumor as a fibrous meningioma. Postoperative assessments, as well as follow-ups conducted at 3 months and 1 year post-surgery, indicated considerable neurological improvement. The patient exhibited a remission of hemiparesis and gait disturbances along with a marginal improvement in the status of expressive aphasia. This case report underscores the significance of achieving total and safe resection of the tumor and includes an analysis of various cases from the literature, particularly focusing on those that describe minimally invasive surgical approaches and highlight the benefits of radiosurgery in the treatment of giant intraventricular meningiomas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Surgery)
17 pages, 1084 KiB  
Article
Response of the TEROS 12 Soil Moisture Sensor under Different Soils and Variable Electrical Conductivity
by Athanasios Fragkos, Dimitrios Loukatos, Georgios Kargas and Konstantinos G. Arvanitis
Sensors 2024, 24(7), 2206; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24072206 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this work, the performance of the TEROS 12 electromagnetic sensor, which measures volumetric soil water content (θ), bulk soil electrical conductivity (σb), and temperature, is examined for a number of different soils, different θ and different levels of the electrical [...] Read more.
In this work, the performance of the TEROS 12 electromagnetic sensor, which measures volumetric soil water content (θ), bulk soil electrical conductivity (σb), and temperature, is examined for a number of different soils, different θ and different levels of the electrical conductivity of the soil solution (ECW) under laboratory conditions. For the above reason, a prototype device was developed including a low-cost microcontroller and suitable adaptation circuits for the aforementioned sensor. Six characteristic porous media were examined in a θ range from air drying to saturation, while four different solutions of increasing Electrical Conductivity (ECw) from 0.28 dS/m to approximately 10 dS/m were used in four of these porous media. It was found that TEROS 12 apparent dielectric permittivity (εa) readings were lower than that of Topp’s permittivity–water content relationship, especially at higher soil water content values in the coarse porous bodies. The differences are observed in sand (S), sandy loam (SL) and loam (L), at this order. The results suggested that the relationship between experimentally measured soil water content (θm) and εa0.5 was strongly linear (0.869 < R2 < 0.989), but the linearity of the relation θma0.5 decreases with the increase in bulk EC (σb) of the soil. The most accurate results were provided by the multipoint calibration method (CAL), as evaluated with the root mean square error (RMSE). Also, it was found that εa degrades substantially at values of σb less than 2.5 dS/m while εa returns to near 80 at higher values. Regarding the relation εab, it seems that it is strongly linear and that its slope depends on the pore water electrical conductivity (σp) and the soil type. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Metrology-Assisted Production in Agriculture and Forestry)
24 pages, 422 KiB  
Article
Evaluating Environmental Sustainability in Africa: The Role of Environmental Taxes, Productive Capacities, and Urbanization Dynamics
by Adel Ben Youssef and Mounir Dahmani
Economies 2024, 12(4), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies12040080 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study examines the complex relation among environmental taxes, productive capacities, urbanization, and their collective effects on environmental quality in Africa, drawing on two decades of data from twenty African countries. It situates the study within the broader discourse on sustainable development and [...] Read more.
This study examines the complex relation among environmental taxes, productive capacities, urbanization, and their collective effects on environmental quality in Africa, drawing on two decades of data from twenty African countries. It situates the study within the broader discourse on sustainable development and economic growth, emphasizing the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) framework to examine the relationship between economic development, characterized by urban expansion and increased productive capacities, and the adoption of environmental taxes amidst the continent’s diverse economic and environmental environments. Using advanced econometric techniques, including the Cross-Section Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) model and the Dynamic Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (DCCEMG) estimator, the study addresses data challenges such as cross-sectional dependence and slope heterogeneity. The results provide important insights into the dynamics of environmental quality in relation to economic and urban growth and the role of environmental taxation. The study proposes tailored policy strategies aimed at strengthening sustainable development initiatives in line with international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals. These strategies advocate for a nuanced application of environmental taxes and the promotion of productive capacities to enhance environmental sustainability across the African continent. Full article
24 pages, 578 KiB  
Review
Durian (Durio zibethinus L.): Nutritional Composition, Pharmacological Implications, Value-Added Products, and Omics-Based Investigations
by Gholamreza Khaksar, Sudarat Kasemcholathan and Supaart Sirikantaramas
Horticulturae 2024, 10(4), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040342 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Durian (Durio zibethinus L.), a tropical fruit celebrated in Southeast Asia for its distinct flavor, is the focus of this comprehensive review. The fruit’s pulp is rich in high-value bioactive compounds, including gamma-glutamylcysteine, a precursor to the essential antioxidant glutathione. With durian [...] Read more.
Durian (Durio zibethinus L.), a tropical fruit celebrated in Southeast Asia for its distinct flavor, is the focus of this comprehensive review. The fruit’s pulp is rich in high-value bioactive compounds, including gamma-glutamylcysteine, a precursor to the essential antioxidant glutathione. With durian cultivation gaining prominence in Southeast Asia due to its economic potential through cultivar enhancement, an in-depth examination of durian-related research becomes crucial. This review explores the health benefits of durian, analyzing the nutritional compositions and bioactive compounds present in the pulp, peel, and seed. It also underscores durian-based food products and the potential for valorizing durian waste. This review encapsulates the significant advancements made in omics-based research, aimed at deciphering the molecular complexities of durian fruit post-harvest ripening and the metabolic shifts impacting its sensory attributes. It is the first to summarize studies across genome, transcriptome, and metabolome levels. Future research should prioritize the development of molecular markers to accelerate the breeding of elite cultivars with preferred traits. It also proposes the exploration of durian waste valorization, including underexplored parts like flowers and leaves for their bioactive compounds, to promote a sustainable bioeconomy. Finally, it suggests the development of innovative durian products catering to the tastes of health-conscious consumers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)
15 pages, 612 KiB  
Systematic Review
Bone Mineral Density in Field Hockey Players: A Systematic Review
by David Oteo-Gómez, Carlos Castellar-Otín, Alejandro Moreno-Azze and Francisco Pradas de la Fuente
Life 2024, 14(4), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14040455 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review to compare and analyse the bone mineral density of field hockey players of both sexes and of different ages, with other sports and with a sedentary population. The search process was [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review to compare and analyse the bone mineral density of field hockey players of both sexes and of different ages, with other sports and with a sedentary population. The search process was carried out using the PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science and Scopus databases. The search ended on 18 March 2024. We selected articles in which a comparison was made of bone mineral density of the whole body, lumbar spine, femoral neck, arms and legs, among field hockey players, and/or with other sports and/or with a sedentary population. The systematic review followed the guidelines described in the 2020 PRISMA statement. The initial search identified 220 articles. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the search was narrowed down to seven articles in total. It was observed that the field hockey group had better bone mineral density values than sedentary population and the low-impact sports population. Basketball players had better whole body and leg bone mineral density values than field hockey players. Causality could not be established due to the cross-sectional nature of the included studies. The better bone mineral density values in field hockey players compared to the sedentary population may be because people who participate in impact sports have a better bone mineral density. The differences in bone mineral density between field hockey and low-impact sports could be related to a lower impact during their practice in these disciplines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Physiology and Physical Performance)
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17 pages, 1520 KiB  
Article
High-Resistance Connection Fault Diagnosis in Ship Electric Propulsion System Using Res-CBDNN
by Jia-Ling Xie, Wei-Feng Shi, Ting Xue and Yu-Hang Liu
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(4), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12040583 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The fault detection and diagnosis of a ship’s electric propulsion system is of great significance to the reliability and safety of large modern ships. The traditional fault diagnosis method based on mathematical models and expert knowledge is limited by the difficulty of establishing [...] Read more.
The fault detection and diagnosis of a ship’s electric propulsion system is of great significance to the reliability and safety of large modern ships. The traditional fault diagnosis method based on mathematical models and expert knowledge is limited by the difficulty of establishing an accurate model of the complex system, and it is easy to cause false alarms. Data-driven methods, such as deep learning, can automatically learn from the mass of data, extract and analyze fault characteristics, and create a more objective distinction system state. A deep learning fault diagnosis model based on ResNet feature extraction capability and bidirectional long-term memory network timing processing capability is proposed to realize fault diagnosis of high resistance connections in ship electric propulsion systems. The results show that the res-convolutional BiLSTM deep neural network (Res-CBDNN) can fully integrate the advantages of the two networks, efficiently process fault current data, and achieve high-performance fault diagnosis. The accuracy of Res-CBDNN can be kept above 85% in a noisy environment, and it can effectively monitor the high resistance connection fault of ship electric propulsion systems. Full article
22 pages, 26835 KiB  
Article
UAV-Borne Mapping Algorithms for Low-Altitude and High-Speed Drone Applications
by Jincheng Zhang, Artur Wolek and Andrew R. Willis
Sensors 2024, 24(7), 2204; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24072204 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This article presents an analysis of current state-of-the-art sensors and how these sensors work with several mapping algorithms for UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) applications, focusing on low-altitude and high-speed scenarios. A new experimental construct is created using highly realistic environments made possible by [...] Read more.
This article presents an analysis of current state-of-the-art sensors and how these sensors work with several mapping algorithms for UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) applications, focusing on low-altitude and high-speed scenarios. A new experimental construct is created using highly realistic environments made possible by integrating the AirSim simulator with Google 3D maps models using the Cesium Tiles plugin. Experiments are conducted in this high-realism simulated environment to evaluate the performance of three distinct mapping algorithms: (1) Direct Sparse Odometry (DSO), (2) Stereo DSO (SDSO), and (3) DSO Lite (DSOL). Experimental results evaluate algorithms based on their measured geometric accuracy and computational speed. The results provide valuable insights into the strengths and limitations of each algorithm. Findings quantify compromises in UAV algorithm selection, allowing researchers to find the mapping solution best suited to their application, which often requires a compromise between computational performance and the density and accuracy of geometric map estimates. Results indicate that for UAVs with restrictive computing resources, DSOL is the best option. For systems with payload capacity and modest compute resources, SDSO is the best option. If only one camera is available, DSO is the option to choose for applications that require dense mapping results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors and Algorithms for 3D Visual Analysis and SLAM)
16 pages, 3091 KiB  
Article
The Role of the ADF Gene Family in Maize Response to Abiotic Stresses
by Ruisi Yang, Fei Wang, Ping Luo, Zhennan Xu, Houwen Wang, Runze Zhang, Wenzhe Li, Ke Yang, Zhuanfang Hao and Wenwei Gao
Agronomy 2024, 14(4), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040717 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The highly conserved actin depolymerizing factor (ADF) plays an important role in plant growth, development and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. A total of 72 ADF genes in Arabidopsis, wheat, rice and sorghum can be divided into four groups. The multicollinearity analysis [...] Read more.
The highly conserved actin depolymerizing factor (ADF) plays an important role in plant growth, development and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. A total of 72 ADF genes in Arabidopsis, wheat, rice and sorghum can be divided into four groups. The multicollinearity analysis revealed that the maize ADF gene family exhibited more collinearity events with closely related gramineous plants. Fifteen ADF genes in maize were screened from the latest database, and bioinformatics analysis showed that these ADF genes were distributed across seven chromosomes in maize. The gene structure of the ADF gene family in maize exhibits significant conservation and cluster consistency. The promoter region contains rich regulatory elements that are involved in various regulations related to growth, development and adverse stresses. The drought-tolerant ZmADF5 gene in maize was further studied, and it was found that the allelic variations in ZmADF5 were mainly concentrated in its promoter region. A superior haplotype, with drought tolerance, was identified by candidate-gene association analysis of 115 inbred lines. By comparing the phenotypes of anthesis silking interval, grain yield and ear height, it was found that Hap2 performed better than Hap1 under drought stress. This study provides a theoretical reference for understanding the function of the ADF gene family and proposes further investigation into the role of ZmADF5 in abiotic-stress tolerance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Crop Molecular Breeding and Genetics)
23 pages, 5903 KiB  
Article
Enhancing the MSPA Method to Incorporate Ecological Sensitivity: Construction of Ecological Security Patterns in Harbin City
by Yulin Liu, Yi Lu, Dawei Xu, Herui Zhou and Shengnan Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2875; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072875 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
China’s urban development has reached a stage where green sustainable development must be considered. Constructing an ecological security pattern (ESP) can effectively contribute to maintaining sustainable development and ecological safety in a city. Harbin, a significant city in northeastern China, serves as the [...] Read more.
China’s urban development has reached a stage where green sustainable development must be considered. Constructing an ecological security pattern (ESP) can effectively contribute to maintaining sustainable development and ecological safety in a city. Harbin, a significant city in northeastern China, serves as the study area with a focus on its urban central district. To construct and optimize Harbin’s ESP, this study utilized ecological sensitivity assessment, MSPA (morphological spatial pattern analysis), the gravity model, landscape connectivity assessment, and the MCR (minimum cumulative resistance) model to identify source areas, corridors, and nodes. Research reveals that there are 23 ecological source areas within the study area, primarily situated along the Songhua River and in the mountain woodlands of the A-cheng District. This study identified 48 corridors, predominantly situated in the Daowai District, A-cheng District, and the eastern part of Xiangfang District. Among these, 8 are deemed significant ecological corridors, along with 10 important connecting corridors. We propose the structure of ecological security pattern optimization, referred to as the “two axes, two belts, and four areas”, and present corresponding ecological management recommendations. The analytical framework provides a valuable method for constructing ecological security patterns and selecting source areas at the regional scale in Harbin City, particularly in complex plain urban areas. Full article
16 pages, 4649 KiB  
Article
Location Dictates Snow Aerodynamic Roughness
by Steven R. Fassnacht, Kazuyoshi Suzuki, Masaki Nemoto, Jessica E. Sanow, Kenji Kosugi, Molly E. Tedesche and Markus M. Frey
Glacies 2024, 1(1), 1-16; https://doi.org/10.3390/glacies1010001 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
We conducted an experiment comparing wind speeds and aerodynamic roughness length (z0) values over three snow surface conditions, including a flat smooth surface, a wavy smooth surface, and a wavy surface with fresh snow added, using the wind simulation tunnel at [...] Read more.
We conducted an experiment comparing wind speeds and aerodynamic roughness length (z0) values over three snow surface conditions, including a flat smooth surface, a wavy smooth surface, and a wavy surface with fresh snow added, using the wind simulation tunnel at the Shinjo Cryospheric Laboratory in Shinjo, Japan. The results indicate that the measurement location impacts the computed z0 values up to a certain measurement height. When we created small (4 cm high) snow bedforms as waves with a 50 cm period, the computed z0 values varied by up to 35% based on the horizontal sampling location over the wave (furrow versus trough). These computed z0 values for the smooth snow waves were not significantly different than those for the smooth flat snow surface. Fresh snow was then blown over the snow waves. Here, for three of four horizontal sampling locations, the computed z0 values were significantly different over the fresh snow-covered waves as compared to those over the smooth snow waves. Since meteorological stations are usually established over flat land surfaces, a smooth snow surface texture may seem to be an appropriate assumption when calculating z0, but the snowpack surface can vary substantially in space and time. Therefore, the nature of the snow surface geometry should be considered variable when estimating a z0 value, especially for modeling purposes. Full article
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18 pages, 628 KiB  
Article
Lipase-Catalyzed Preparation and Optimization of Structured Phosphatidylcholine Containing Nervonic Acid
by Xun Ang, Hong Chen, Jiqian Xiang, Fang Wei and Siew Young Quek
Molecules 2024, 29(7), 1539; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29071539 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the incorporation of nervonic acid into the chemical structure of phosphatidylcholine via a lipase-catalyzed acidolysis reaction to obtain a functional phospholipid. Lipase immobilization was conducted, and Amberlite XAD7-HP was selected as a carrier to immobilize phospholipase A1 (PLA1 [...] Read more.
This study investigated the incorporation of nervonic acid into the chemical structure of phosphatidylcholine via a lipase-catalyzed acidolysis reaction to obtain a functional phospholipid. Lipase immobilization was conducted, and Amberlite XAD7-HP was selected as a carrier to immobilize phospholipase A1 (PLA1) for subsequent experiments. The main acidolysis reaction parameters, including enzyme load, substrate ratio, temperature, and water content, were studied against the reaction time. The optimum reaction conditions obtained were enzyme load, 20%; reaction temperature, 55 °C; water content, 1%; and reaction time, 9 h. The maximum incorporation of nervonic acid into phosphatidylcholine was 48 mol%, with PC recovery at 61.6 mol%. The positional distribution of structured phosphatidylcholine shows that nervonic acid was found in the sn-1 position due to enzyme specificity and in the sn-2 position, possibly due to acyl migration. Full article
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19 pages, 712 KiB  
Article
Multi-User Computation Offloading and Resource Allocation Algorithm in a Vehicular Edge Network
by Xiangyan Liu, Jianhong Zheng, Meng Zhang, Yang Li, Rui Wang and Yun He
Sensors 2024, 24(7), 2205; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24072205 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In Vehicular Edge Computing Network (VECN) scenarios, the mobility of vehicles causes the uncertainty of channel state information, which makes it difficult to guarantee the Quality of Service (QoS) in the process of computation offloading and the resource allocation of a Vehicular Edge [...] Read more.
In Vehicular Edge Computing Network (VECN) scenarios, the mobility of vehicles causes the uncertainty of channel state information, which makes it difficult to guarantee the Quality of Service (QoS) in the process of computation offloading and the resource allocation of a Vehicular Edge Computing Server (VECS). A multi-user computation offloading and resource allocation optimization model and a computation offloading and resource allocation algorithm based on the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) are proposed to address this problem. Firstly, the problem is modeled as a Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP) problem according to the optimization objective of minimizing the total system delay. Then, in response to the large state space and the coexistence of discrete and continuous variables in the action space, a reinforcement learning algorithm based on DDPG is proposed. Finally, the proposed method is used to solve the problem and compared with the other three benchmark schemes. Compared with the baseline algorithms, the proposed scheme can effectively select the task offloading mode and reasonably allocate VECS computing resources, ensure the QoS of task execution, and have a certain stability and scalability. Simulation results show that the total completion time of the proposed scheme can be reduced by 24–29% compared with the existing state-of-the-art techniques. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communication Networks)
18 pages, 3256 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Role of Extracellular Vesicles in the Pathogenesis of Tuberculosis
by Rakesh Arya, Hemlata Shakya, Reetika Chaurasia, Md Azizul Haque and Jong-Joo Kim
Genes 2024, 15(4), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15040434 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, necessitating accurate diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, play crucial roles in disease progression, with their associated genes serving as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Leveraging publicly available RNA-Seq datasets of TB [...] Read more.
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, necessitating accurate diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, play crucial roles in disease progression, with their associated genes serving as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Leveraging publicly available RNA-Seq datasets of TB patients and healthy controls (HCs), to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and their associated protein–protein interaction networks and immune cell profiles, the common EV-related DEGs were identified and validated in the GSE42830 and GSE40553 datasets. We have identified nine common EV-related DEGs (SERPINA1, TNFAIP6, MAPK14, STAT1, ITGA2B, VAMP5, CTSL, CEACAM1, and PLAUR) upregulated in TB patients. Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed significant differences between TB patients and HCs, highlighting increased proportions of various immune cells in TB patients. These DEGs are involved in crucial cellular processes and pathways related to exocytosis and immune response regulation. Notably, VAMP5 exhibited excellent diagnostic performance (AUC—0.993, sensitivity—93.8%, specificity—100%), with potential as a novel biomarker for TB. The EV-related genes can serve as novel potential biomarkers that can distinguish between TB and HCs. VAMP5, which functions in exosome biogenesis and showed significant upregulation in TB, can be targeted for therapeutic interventions and treatment outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetic Diagnosis)
26 pages, 13560 KiB  
Article
Approximating Option Greeks in a Classical and Multi-Curve Framework Using Artificial Neural Networks
by Ryno du Plooy and Pierre J. Venter
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2024, 17(4), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17040140 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this paper, the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) is proposed to approximate the option price sensitivities of Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) Top 40 European call options in a classical and a modern multi-curve framework. The ANNs were trained on artificially generated [...] Read more.
In this paper, the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) is proposed to approximate the option price sensitivities of Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) Top 40 European call options in a classical and a modern multi-curve framework. The ANNs were trained on artificially generated option price data given the illiquid nature of the South African market, and the out-of-sample performance of the optimized ANNs was evaluated using an implied volatility surface constructed from published volatility skews. The results from this paper show that ANNs trained on artificially generated input data are able to accurately approximate the explicit solutions to the respective option price sensitivities of both a classical and a modern multi-curve framework in a real-world out-of-sample application to the South African market. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Investment Management in the Age of AI)
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19 pages, 6937 KiB  
Article
Experimental Study on Grout–Soil Interaction Effects in Sandy Soil under Different Water-to-Cement Ratios
by Huanxiao Hu, Yufan Lu, Chao Deng, Benqing Gan, Zhongliang Xie, Yuehui Cai and Aikun Chu
Buildings 2024, 14(4), 947; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14040947 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Due to the unique characteristics of sandy soil layers, there is often a coupling effect of multiple grout diffusion patterns in the grouting process, and different slurry diffusion modes may lead to different responses of soil structures. In this study, laboratory grouting model [...] Read more.
Due to the unique characteristics of sandy soil layers, there is often a coupling effect of multiple grout diffusion patterns in the grouting process, and different slurry diffusion modes may lead to different responses of soil structures. In this study, laboratory grouting model tests were conducted with homogeneous sand under different water-to-cement (w/c) ratios to reveal the temporal variations in grouting pressure, soil stress fields, and displacement fields during the grout diffusion process. The results show that, during the grouting process in the fine sand layer, the grout mainly exhibited a compaction–splitting diffusion mode. The farther away from the grouting center, the more pronounced the hysteresis effect of soil pressure caused by grout diffusion. Meanwhile, as the w/c ratio increased, the diffusion mode between the slurry and the soil was in a transitional state. At w/c > 1.2, the primary pattern changed from the fracture–compaction pattern to the permeation–fracture–compaction pattern and fracture–permeation pattern. And the overall trend of the grouting pressure curve was similar under all of the w/c ratio conditions, showing a trend of increasing to the maximum value of the pressure first and then decreasing. With the increase in the water–cement ratio, the overall value of the grouting pressure curve showed a decreasing trend, the pressure value increased more slowly with time before reaching the maximum value, and the more obvious the influence of water–cement ratio was when w/c > 1.2. Additionally, the surface displacement also exhibited an overall decreasing trend, and it had no obvious lifting value under the condition of w/c = 1.6. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Construction in Urban Underground Space)
14 pages, 5646 KiB  
Article
The Effects of the Lubricant Properties and Surface Finish Characteristics on the Tribology of High-Speed Gears for EV Transmissions
by Boris Zhmud, Morteza Najjari and Boris Brodmann
Lubricants 2024, 12(4), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants12040112 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Electric vehicle (EV) transmissions operate at high speeds. High-speed operation puts higher demands on bearings, seals, and gears. Bearings in EV transmissions are prone to electrically induced bearing damage and may exhibit signs of pitting and fluting. Surface-initiated rolling contact fatigue is another [...] Read more.
Electric vehicle (EV) transmissions operate at high speeds. High-speed operation puts higher demands on bearings, seals, and gears. Bearings in EV transmissions are prone to electrically induced bearing damage and may exhibit signs of pitting and fluting. Surface-initiated rolling contact fatigue is another common problem gaining increased attention lately. Most EV transmissions require a coupling between an oil-lubricated gearbox to an electrical motor that runs with minimal lubrication at very high rpm. The high mechanical and thermal stresses the seals are exposed to under starved lubrication conditions have a detrimental impact on their service life. Hence, proper lubrication is critical. In general, EV transmission fluids call for a somewhat different spectrum of properties compared to conventional ATFs. Gear tribology simulations open new ways to the design and optimization of lubrication for EV transmissions. Additionally, such simulations can also provide valuable insights into the effects of different oil properties on cooling and lubrication efficiencies, thereby helping in matching the lubricant and hardware characteristics for optimal performance. In the present communication, we demonstrate the effects of different lubricants and surface finishing technologies on the tribology of high-speed gears using tribological tests and advanced thermal elastohydrodynamic (TEHD) simulations. The important roles of lubricity additives and surface finish optimization are highlighted in conjunction with a move towards ultralow viscosity EV transmission fluids. Full article
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14 pages, 527 KiB  
Article
Circadian Gene Variants: Effects in Overweight and Obese Pregnant Women
by Marica Franzago, Paola Borrelli, Pierluigi Cavallo, Luciano Di Tizio, Diego Gazzolo, Marta Di Nicola, Liborio Stuppia and Ester Vitacolonna
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3838; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073838 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Obesity and overweight are common and complex conditions influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors. Several genetic variants located in the genes involved in clock systems and fat taste perception can affect metabolic health. In particular, the polymorphisms in CLOCK and BMAL1 genes [...] Read more.
Obesity and overweight are common and complex conditions influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors. Several genetic variants located in the genes involved in clock systems and fat taste perception can affect metabolic health. In particular, the polymorphisms in CLOCK and BMAL1 genes were reported to be significantly related to cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, sleep reduction, and evening preference. Moreover, genetic variants in the CD36 gene have been shown to be involved in lipid metabolism, regulation of fat intake, and body weight regulation. The aim of this study is to evaluate, for the first time, the association between variants in some candidate genes (namely, BMAL1 rs7950226 (G>A), CLOCK rs1801260 (A>G), CLOCK rs4864548 (G>A), CLOCK rs3736544 (G>A), CD36 rs1984112 (A>G), CD36 rs1761667 (G>A)) and overweight/obesity (OB) in pregnant women. A total of 163 normal-weight (NW) and 128 OB participants were included. A significant correlation was observed between A-allele in CLOCK rs4864548 and an increased risk of obesity (OR: 1.97; 95% CI 1.22–3.10, p = 0.005). In addition, we found that subjects carrying the haplotype of rs1801260-A, rs4864548-A, and rs3736544-G are likely to be overweight or obese (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.03–2.09, p = 0.030), compared with those with other haplotypes. Moreover, a significant relation was observed between third-trimester lipid parameters and genetic variants—namely, CD36 rs1984112, CD36 rs1761667, BMAL1 rs7950226, and CLOCK rs1801260. A multivariate logistic regression model revealed that CLOCK rs4864548 A-allele carriage was a strong risk factor for obesity (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.07–3.93, p = 0.029); on the other hand, greater adherence to Mediterranean diet (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.65–0.98, p = 0.038) and higher HDL levels (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94–0.99, p = 0.021) were related to a reduced risk of obesity. Interestingly, an association between maternal CLOCK rs4864548 and neonatal birthweight was detected (p = 0.025). These data suggest a potential role of the polymorphisms in clock systems and in fat taste perception in both susceptibility to overweight/obesity and influencing the related metabolic traits in pregnant women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Advances in Circadian Rhythm and Metabolism)
19 pages, 4293 KiB  
Article
Fluorocarbon Plasma-Polymerized Layer Increases the Release Time of Silver Ions and the Antibacterial Activity of Silver-Based Coatings
by Linda Bonilla-Gameros, Pascale Chevallier, Xavier Delvaux, L. Astrid Yá?ez-Hernández, Laurent Houssiau, Xavier Minne, Vanessa P. Houde, Andranik Sarkissian and Diego Mantovani
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070609 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Silver-based antibacterial coatings limit the spread of hospital-acquired infections. Indeed, the use of silver and silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag and AgO NPs) incorporated in amorphous hydrogenated carbon (a-C:H) as a matrix demonstrates a promising approach to reduce microbial contamination on environmental surfaces. However, [...] Read more.
Silver-based antibacterial coatings limit the spread of hospital-acquired infections. Indeed, the use of silver and silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag and AgO NPs) incorporated in amorphous hydrogenated carbon (a-C:H) as a matrix demonstrates a promising approach to reduce microbial contamination on environmental surfaces. However, its success as an antibacterial coating hinges on the control of Ag+ release. In this sense, if a continuous release is required, an additional barrier is needed to extend the release time of Ag+. Thus, this research investigated the use of a plasma fluoropolymer (CFx) as an additional top layer to elongate Ag+ release and increase the antibacterial activity due to its high hydrophobic nature. Herein, a porous CFx film was deposited on a-C:H containing Ag and AgO NPs using pulsed afterglow low pressure plasma polymerization. The chemical composition, surface wettability and morphology, release profile, and antibacterial activity were analyzed. Overall, the combination of a-C:H:Ag (12.1 at. % of Ag) and CFx film (120.0°, F/C = 0.8) successfully inactivated 88% of E. coli and delayed biofilm formation after 12 h. Thus, using a hybrid approach composed of Ag NPs and a hydrophobic polymeric layer, it was possible to increase the overall antibacterial activity of the coating. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
14 pages, 920 KiB  
Article
The Quality Evaluation of Avocado Fruits (Persea americana Mill.) of Hass Produced in Different Localities on the Island of Tenerife, Spain
by Clemente Méndez Hernández, Alicja Grycz, Domingo Rios Mesa, Beatriz Rodríguez Galdón and Elena M. Rodríguez-Rodríguez
Foods 2024, 13(7), 1058; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071058 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The effect of the production area on the quality of Hass avocados grown on the island of Tenerife was studied. For this purpose, several physicochemical parameters, such as fruit weight, percentage of pulp, seed and skin, proximate composition, minerals, total phenolic compounds (TP), [...] Read more.
The effect of the production area on the quality of Hass avocados grown on the island of Tenerife was studied. For this purpose, several physicochemical parameters, such as fruit weight, percentage of pulp, seed and skin, proximate composition, minerals, total phenolic compounds (TP), total flavonoid compounds (TF), α-tocopherol, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid profile were analyzed. The location of the orchards significantly influenced avocado weight; pulp and seed percentage; and fat, fiber, ash, α-tocopherol, TP, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, and oleic and palmitoleic acid contents. Buenavista (BU) avocados were the smallest (185 g) and presented the highest percentage of pulp (77.1%) and lowest percentage of fiber (5.43%). The highest levels of dry matter (33.8%) and fat (20.4%) were found in avocados harvested in Los Silos (SI) and Santiago del Teide (SA), respectively. Compared with those at the other locations, the avocados harvested in Güímar (GU) had high levels of α-tocopherol (52.2 µg g−1) and phenolic compounds (56.0 mg GAE 100 g−1). Avocados from Los Realejos (RE) had the highest percentage of oleic acid and the lowest percentage of palmitoleic acid. Numerous significant correlations were found between the variables studied, especially those between TP, TF, and antioxidant capacity (DPPH) and between fat percentage and dry matter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Quality and Safety)
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