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35 pages, 7809 KiB  
Review
A Very-High-Energy Gamma-Ray View of the Transient Sky
by Alessandro Carosi and Alicia López-Oramas
Universe 2024, 10(4), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe10040163 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The development of the latest generation of Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes (IACTs) over recent decades has led to the discovery of new extreme astrophysical phenomena in the very-high-energy (VHE, E > 100 GeV) gamma-ray regime. Time-domain and multi-messenger astronomy are inevitably connected to [...] Read more.
The development of the latest generation of Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes (IACTs) over recent decades has led to the discovery of new extreme astrophysical phenomena in the very-high-energy (VHE, E > 100 GeV) gamma-ray regime. Time-domain and multi-messenger astronomy are inevitably connected to the physics of transient VHE emitters, which show unexpected (and mostly unpredictable) flaring or exploding episodes at different timescales. These transients often share the physical processes responsible for the production of the gamma-ray emission, through cosmic-ray acceleration, magnetic reconnection, jet production and/or outflows, and shocks interactions. In this review, we present an up-to-date overview of the VHE transients field, spanning from novae to supernovae, neutrino counterparts or fast radio bursts, among others, and we outline the expectations for future facilities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Gamma Ray Astrophysics and Future Perspectives)
18 pages, 14730 KiB  
Article
Stability of a Deep Foundation Pit with Hard Surrounding Rocks under Different in-Time Transverse Supporting Conditions
by Yang Li, Zhanguo Ma, Furong Gao, Peng Gong, Zhiqun Gong and Kelong Li
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2914; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072914 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This paper focuses on investigating the stability of a deep foundation pit with hard surrounding rocks at different excavation stages with different supporting schemes by means of numerical calculations. The supporting schemes in question were combinations of one fixed vertical support and four [...] Read more.
This paper focuses on investigating the stability of a deep foundation pit with hard surrounding rocks at different excavation stages with different supporting schemes by means of numerical calculations. The supporting schemes in question were combinations of one fixed vertical support and four varied transverse supports. Drilled grouting piles were used as vertical supports, and the commonly used steel bracings and prestressed anchorages served as transverse supports. The parameters used to evaluate the stability of the foundation pit at different excavation stages included the lateral displacements of the surrounding rocks, the settlement of the surrounding ground, the axial forces of steel bracings, and displacements at the tops of the drilled grouting piles. Simulation results showed that when a transverse supporting scheme consisting of one-layer steel bracings and prestressed anchorages set at 9 m and 22.5 m underground, respectively, was adopted, the lateral displacements of the surrounding rocks and settlement of the surrounding ground at different excavation stages were the largest compared to those under the other three transverse supporting schemes, while the corresponding values were lower compared to those allowed in Chinese standard GB50007-2011, demonstrating that this kind of supporting scheme is effective in terms of ensuring the safety of the foundation pit at different excavation stages. Moreover, the setting techniques for this kind of supporting scheme were relatively simple, and the corresponding influences of supporting element arrangements on excavation techniques were the lowest. Therefore, one-layer steel bracings and one-layer prestressed anchorages constituted the most suitable transverse supporting scheme for excavating a deep foundation pit with hard surrounding rocks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tunnel and Underground Construction)
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17 pages, 1755 KiB  
Article
Nano Zero-Valent Iron (nZVI) Encapsulated with ABS (nZVI/(ABS + EC)) for Sustainable Denitrification Performance and Anti-Aggregation
by Fanbin Meng, Yuning Yang, Miao Li, Qizhi Zhu, Bing Qin and Chunpeng Yang
Processes 2024, 12(4), 697; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12040697 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Aggregation and sharp reactivity decrease are the key problems of using nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) as a potential reaction medium for a permeable reactive barrier (PRB). In this study, nZVI particles encapsulated within an acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) matrix (nZVI/(ABS + EC)) was fabricated, which [...] Read more.
Aggregation and sharp reactivity decrease are the key problems of using nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) as a potential reaction medium for a permeable reactive barrier (PRB). In this study, nZVI particles encapsulated within an acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) matrix (nZVI/(ABS + EC)) was fabricated, which for the first time successfully simultaneously solved the above problems via accurately regulating the distribution of nZVI particles in the ABS matrix and regulating the contact between nZVI particles and the contaminated aqueous environment. In addition, the size and number of the pores throughout the ABS matrix were first regulated by ethyl cellulose (EC) for the purpose of controlling the contact between nZVI particles and the nitrate contaminant, affording apparent rate constants (kobs) for denitrification performance in the range of 0.0423 to 0.0820 min−1. The remediation of simulated nitrate-contaminated solution by nZVI/(ABS + EC) was suitably described by the first-order kinetics model, with kobs ranging from 0.0423 to 0.2036 min−1, and functional relationship models of kobs with the dosages of EC (dEC) and nZVI (dFe) during encapsulation were developed for the quantitative regulation of a sustainable denitrification performance. Results revealed that encapsulation prevents the aggregation of nZVI, rendering a sustainable denitrification performance of the material; the denitrification performance was demonstrated to be affected and quantitatively regulated by the encapsulation and application conditions. Using nZVI/(ABS + EC) as the reaction medium for PRB, the pore blocking of PRB can be avoided, and the sustainable remediation performance can be quantitatively regulated and predicted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remediation Strategies for Soil and Water)
32 pages, 3619 KiB  
Article
Fracture Density Prediction of Basement Metamorphic Rocks Using Gene Expression Programming
by Muhammad Luqman Hasan and Tivadar M. Tóth
Minerals 2024, 14(4), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14040366 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Many methods have been developed to detect and predict the fracture properties of fractured rocks. The standard data sources for fracture evaluations are image logs and core samples. However, many wells do not have these data, especially for old wells. Furthermore, operating both [...] Read more.
Many methods have been developed to detect and predict the fracture properties of fractured rocks. The standard data sources for fracture evaluations are image logs and core samples. However, many wells do not have these data, especially for old wells. Furthermore, operating both methods can be costly, and, sometimes, the data gathered are of bad quality. Therefore, previous research attempted to evaluate fractures indirectly using the widely available conventional well-logs. Sedimentary rocks are widespread and have been studied in the literature. However, fractured reservoirs, like igneous and metamorphic rock bodies, may also be vital since they provide fluid migration pathways and can store some hydrocarbons. Hence, two fractured metamorphic rock bodies are studied in this study to evaluate any difference in fracture responses on well-log properties. Also, a quick and reliable prediction method is studied to predict fracture density (FD) in the case of the unavailability of image logs and core samples. Gene expression programming (GEP) was chosen for this study to predict FD, and ten conventional well-log data were used as input variables. The model produced by GEP was good, with R2 values at least above 0.84 for all studied wells, and the model was then applied to wells without image logs. Both selected metamorphic rocks showed similar results in which the significant parameters to predict FD were the spectral gamma ray, resistivity, and porosity logs. This study also proposed a validation method to ensure that the FD value predictions were consistent using discriminant function analysis. In conclusion, the GEP method is reliable and could be used for FD predictions for basement metamorphic rocks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Petrological and Geochemical Characteristics of Reservoirs)
18 pages, 5522 KiB  
Review
Recent Research in Solar-Driven Hydrogen Production
by Yimin Deng, Shuo Li, Helei Liu, Huili Zhang and Jan Baeyens
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2883; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072883 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Climate concerns require immediate actions to reduce the global average temperature increase. Renewable electricity and renewable energy-based fuels and chemicals are crucial for progressive de-fossilization. Hydrogen will be part of the solution. The main issues to be considered are the growing market for [...] Read more.
Climate concerns require immediate actions to reduce the global average temperature increase. Renewable electricity and renewable energy-based fuels and chemicals are crucial for progressive de-fossilization. Hydrogen will be part of the solution. The main issues to be considered are the growing market for H2 and the “green” feedstock and energy that should be used to produce H2. The electrolysis of water using surplus renewable energy is considered an important development. Alternative H2 production routes should be using “green” feedstock to replace fossil fuels. We firstly investigated these alternative routes through using bio-based methanol or ethanol or ammonia from digesting agro-industrial or domestic waste. The catalytic conversion of CH4 to C and H2 was examined as a possible option for decarbonizing the natural gas grid. Secondly, water splitting by reversible redox reactions was examined, but using a renewable energy supply was deemed necessary. The application of renewable heat or power was therefore investigated, with a special focus on using concentrated solar tower (CST) technology. We finally assessed valorization data to provide a tentative view of the scale-up potential and economic aspects of the systems and determine the needs for future research and developments. Full article
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21 pages, 1218 KiB  
Article
Research on Green Design Strategy of Electrical and Electronic Manufacturing Enterprises Based on the Perspective of Tripartite Evolutionary Game
by Yujing Si, Yi Yang and Ze Shao
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2884; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072884 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Green design emphasizes the environmental attributes of the product life cycle, which can prevent environmental pollution at the source and reduce resource consumption. Based on the evolutionary game theory, this paper constructs a tripartite game model between “government-electrical and electronic manufacturing companies-consumers”, explores [...] Read more.
Green design emphasizes the environmental attributes of the product life cycle, which can prevent environmental pollution at the source and reduce resource consumption. Based on the evolutionary game theory, this paper constructs a tripartite game model between “government-electrical and electronic manufacturing companies-consumers”, explores the influence of participants’ strategic choices and parameters on the evolutionary behavior of the three parties in different situations, and uses Matlab software to conduct numerical simulation analysis. Simulation analysis is the process of simulating real-world events and system behavior through computer models to assess, validate, and predict their performance and response. The research results show that the strategic choices of the three parties influence each other and government supervision and green consumption are conducive to incentivizing manufacturing companies to carry out green design. Consumer green preferences, environmental tax rates, corporate recycling revenue, and increases in consumer recycling revenue are all conducive to product design. Compared to environmental taxes, corporate subsidy policies have a greater impact on the behavior of the government, manufacturing companies, and consumers. Compared to consumer subsidies, corporate subsidy policies have a more significant effect on the behavior of governments and manufacturing companies, while for consumers, the opposite is true. Full article
10 pages, 2648 KiB  
Communication
Understanding Quasi-Static and Dynamic Characteristics of Organic Ferroelectric Field Effect Transistors
by Hanjing Ke, Xiaoci Liang, Xiaozhe Yin, Baiquan Liu, Songjia Han, Shijie Jiang, Chuan Liu and Xiaojian She
Micromachines 2024, 15(4), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15040467 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Leveraging poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) [(PVDF-TrFE)] as the dielectric, we fabricated organic ferroelectric field-effect transistors (OFe-FETs). These devices demonstrate quasi-static transfer characteristics that include a hysteresis window alongside transient phenomena that bear resemblance to synaptic plasticity-encapsulating excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC) as well as both short-term [...] Read more.
Leveraging poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) [(PVDF-TrFE)] as the dielectric, we fabricated organic ferroelectric field-effect transistors (OFe-FETs). These devices demonstrate quasi-static transfer characteristics that include a hysteresis window alongside transient phenomena that bear resemblance to synaptic plasticity-encapsulating excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC) as well as both short-term and long-term potentiation (STP/LTP). We also explore and elucidate other aspects such as the subthreshold swing and the hysteresis window under dynamic state by varying the pace of voltage sweeps. In addition, we developed an analytical model that describes the electrical properties of OFe-FETs, which melds an empirical formula for ferroelectric polarization with a compact model. This model agrees well with the experimental data concerning quasi-static transfer characteristics, potentially serving as a quantitative tool to improve the understanding and design of OFe-FETs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thin-Film Transistors: Materials, Fabrications and Applications)
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23 pages, 4361 KiB  
Article
Using Transfer Learning and Radial Basis Function Deep Neural Network Feature Extraction to Upgrade Existing Product Fault Detection Systems for Industry 4.0: A Case Study of a Spring Factory
by Chee-Hoe Loh, Yi-Chung Chen and Chwen-Tzeng Su
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2913; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072913 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In the era of Industry 3.0, product fault detection systems became important auxiliary systems for factories. These systems efficiently monitor product quality, and as such, substantial amounts of capital were invested in their development. However, with the arrival of Industry 4.0, high-volume low-mix [...] Read more.
In the era of Industry 3.0, product fault detection systems became important auxiliary systems for factories. These systems efficiently monitor product quality, and as such, substantial amounts of capital were invested in their development. However, with the arrival of Industry 4.0, high-volume low-mix production modes are gradually being replaced by low-volume high-mix production modes, reducing the applicability of existing systems. The extent of investment has prompted factories to seek upgrades to tailor existing systems to suit new production modes. In this paper, we propose an approach to upgrading based on the concept of transfer learning. The key elements are (1) using a framework with a basic model and an add-on model rather than fine-tuning parameters and (2) designing a radial basis function deep neural network (RBF-DNN) to extract important features to construct the basic and add-on models. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is verified using real-world data from a spring factory. Full article
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9 pages, 440 KiB  
Article
An Ultra-Rare Mixed Phenotype with Combined AP-4 and ERF Mutations: The First Report in a Pediatric Patient and a Literature Review
by Alessandro Orsini, Andrea Santangelo, Alessandra Carmignani, Anna Camporeale, Francesco Massart, Nina Tyutyusheva, Diego Giampietro Peroni, Thomas Foiadelli, Alessandro Ferretti, Benedetta Toschi, Silvia Romano and Alice Bonuccelli
Genes 2024, 15(4), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15040436 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The adaptor protein 4 (AP-4) constitutes a conserved hetero-tetrameric complex within the family of adaptor protein (AP) complex, crucial for the signal-mediated trafficking of integral membrane proteins. Mutations affecting all subunits of the AP-4 complex have been linked to autosomal-recessive cerebral palsy and [...] Read more.
The adaptor protein 4 (AP-4) constitutes a conserved hetero-tetrameric complex within the family of adaptor protein (AP) complex, crucial for the signal-mediated trafficking of integral membrane proteins. Mutations affecting all subunits of the AP-4 complex have been linked to autosomal-recessive cerebral palsy and a complex hereditary spastic paraparesis (HSP) phenotype. Our report details the case of a 14-year-old boy born to consanguineous parents, presenting psychomotor delay, severe intellectual disability, microcephaly, and trigonocephaly. Despite a history of febrile seizures, subsequent years were devoid of seizures, with normal EEG. Exome sequencing revealed pathogenic variants in both the AP4B1 and ERF genes. Significantly, the patient exhibited features associated with AP4B1 mutations, including distinctive traits such as cranial malformations. The ERF gene variant, linked to craniosynostosis, likely contributes to the observed trigonocephaly. This case represents the initial documentation of a concurrent mutation in the AP4B1 and ERF genes, underscoring the critical role of exome analysis in unraveling complex phenotypes. Understanding these complex genotypes offers valuable insights into broader syndromic conditions, facilitating comprehensive patient management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
15 pages, 779 KiB  
Article
Species-Specific Unbound Fraction Differences in Highly Bound PFAS: A Comparative Study across Human, Rat, and Mouse Plasma and Albumin
by Sangwoo Ryu, Woodrow Burchett, Sam Zhang, Seyed Mohamad Sadegh Modaresi, Juliana Agudelo Areiza, Emily Kaye, Fabian Christoph Fischer and Angela L. Slitt
Toxics 2024, 12(4), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12040253 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of fluorinated compounds which have yet to undergo comprehensive investigation regarding potential adverse health effects and bioaccumulative properties. With long half-lives and accumulative properties, PFAS have been linked to several toxic effects in both [...] Read more.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of fluorinated compounds which have yet to undergo comprehensive investigation regarding potential adverse health effects and bioaccumulative properties. With long half-lives and accumulative properties, PFAS have been linked to several toxic effects in both non-clinical species such as rat and mouse as well as human. Although biological impacts and specific protein binding of PFAS have been examined, there is no study focusing on the species-specific fraction unbound (fu) in plasma and related toxicokinetics. Herein, a presaturation equilibrium dialysis method was used to measure and validate the binding of 14 individual PFAS with carbon chains containing 4 to 12 perfluorinated carbon atoms and several functional head-groups to albumin and plasma of mouse (C57BL/6 and CD-1), rat, and human. Equivalence testing between each species-matrix combination showed positive correlation between rat and human when comparing fu in plasma and binding to albumin. Similar trends in binding were also observed for mouse plasma and albumin. Relatively high Spearman correlations for all combinations indicate high concordance of PFAS binding regardless of matrix. Physiochemical properties of PFAS such as molecular weight, chain length, and lipophilicity were found to have important roles in plasma protein binding of PFAS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue PFAS Toxicology and Metabolism)
24 pages, 2009 KiB  
Review
An Overview of Machine Learning Applications on Plant Phenotyping, with a Focus on Sunflower
by Luana Centorame, Thomas Gasperini, Alessio Ilari, Andrea Del Gatto and Ester Foppa Pedretti
Agronomy 2024, 14(4), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040719 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Machine learning is a widespread technology that plays a crucial role in digitalisation and aims to explore rules and patterns in large datasets to autonomously solve non-linear problems, taking advantage of multiple source data. Due to its versatility, machine learning can be applied [...] Read more.
Machine learning is a widespread technology that plays a crucial role in digitalisation and aims to explore rules and patterns in large datasets to autonomously solve non-linear problems, taking advantage of multiple source data. Due to its versatility, machine learning can be applied to agriculture. Better crop management, plant health assessment, and early disease detection are some of the main challenges facing the agricultural sector. Plant phenotyping can play a key role in addressing these challenges, especially when combined with machine learning techniques. Therefore, this study reviews available scientific literature on the applications of machine learning algorithms in plant phenotyping with a specific focus on sunflowers. The most common algorithms in the agricultural field are described to emphasise possible uses. Subsequently, the overview highlights machine learning application on phenotyping in three primaries areas: crop management (i.e., yield prediction, biomass estimation, and growth stage monitoring), plant health (i.e., nutritional status and water stress), and disease detection. Finally, we focus on the adoption of machine learning techniques in sunflower phenotyping. The role of machine learning in plant phenotyping has been thoroughly investigated. Artificial neural networks and stacked models seems to be the best way to analyse data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Machine Learning in Digital Agriculture)
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15 pages, 1346 KiB  
Article
Impact of the Pre-Dehydration and Drying Methods on the Mass Transfer and Quality Attributes of Yak Milk Casein
by Dong Wang, Zhi Cao, Yumei Gao, Lin Yang and Lili Zhao
Foods 2024, 13(7), 1062; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071062 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Drying is an important preservation method of casein. Traditional natural draining and drying processes have low efficiency, long processing time, and poor product quality, which urgently need to be improved. This study investigated the effects of pre-dehydration intensities (30 N 30 min (PreD1) [...] Read more.
Drying is an important preservation method of casein. Traditional natural draining and drying processes have low efficiency, long processing time, and poor product quality, which urgently need to be improved. This study investigated the effects of pre-dehydration intensities (30 N 30 min (PreD1) and 50 N 30 min (PreD2)) and drying methods (including pulsed vacuum drying (PVD), infrared drying (IRD), and hot air drying (HAD)) on the drying kinetics, drying modeling, and quality of yak milk casein. These findings reveal that PreD2 and PVD both had a positive impact on shortening the drying time. Compared to other combined treatments, PreD2-PVD had the shortest drying time of 6 h. The Midilli–Kucuk mathematical model effectively predicted the drying of casein. The yak milk casein powder treated with PreD2-PVD possessed a higher content of gross compositions, superior color, lower levels of fat oxidation and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), and higher emulsifying activity index (EAI) and emulsion stability index (ESI) values. Overall, combining pre-dehydration with PVD proved effective in improving the drying rate and maintaining a good quality of yak milk casein, showing promising potential for industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Food Processing)
27 pages, 3553 KiB  
Review
Research Status of Electrolytic Preparation of Rare Earth Metals and Alloys in Fluoride Molten Salt System: A Mini Review of China
by Chunfa Liao, Lianghua Que, Zanhui Fu, Pan Deng, Alin Li, Xu Wang and Shumei Chen
Metals 2024, 14(4), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14040407 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
China’s rare earth reserves and consumption are the highest in the world. Rare earth metals and alloys play a pivotal role in the domains of permanent magnetic materials, hydrogen storage materials, luminescent materials, abrasive materials, etc. The molten salt electrolysis process is the [...] Read more.
China’s rare earth reserves and consumption are the highest in the world. Rare earth metals and alloys play a pivotal role in the domains of permanent magnetic materials, hydrogen storage materials, luminescent materials, abrasive materials, etc. The molten salt electrolysis process is the most widely used method for producing light rare earth metals and alloys in China, with distinct advantages such as continuous production and short process flow. This article focuses on the process technology of preparing rare earth metals and alloys by electrolyzing rare earth oxides in fluoride systems. This article summarizes the effects of process parameters such as cathode and anode structures, electrolysis temperature, and current density on the direct recovery and current efficiency of the preparation of light rare earth metals (La, Ce, Pr, Nd), RE–Mg (RE for rare earth) alloys, RE–Al alloys, RE–Ni alloys, and other rare earth alloys. Meanwhile, the disadvantages of the electrolytic cells and electrode configurations that are currently used in industrial production are discussed. Accordingly, the future prospects of molten salt electrolysis technology in the preparation of rare earth metals and alloys are clarified. Full article
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9 pages, 314 KiB  
Article
The Stability of Social and Behavioral Rhythms and Unexpected Low Rate of Relevant Depressive Symptoms in Old Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Federica Sancassiani, Giulia Cossu, Elisa Cantone, Ferdinando Romano, Alessandra Perra, Antonio Urban, Samantha Pinna, Stefano Del Giacco, Roberto Littera, Davide Firinu, Luchino Chessa, Enzo Tramontano, Antonio Egidio Nardi and Mauro Giovanni Carta
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 2005; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13072005 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: The disruption of social rhythms was found to be associated with depressive disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic; lower rates of these disorders were surprisingly found in old adults. The present study aims to verify the stability of social rhythms during lockdown [...] Read more.
Background: The disruption of social rhythms was found to be associated with depressive disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic; lower rates of these disorders were surprisingly found in old adults. The present study aims to verify the stability of social rhythms during lockdown in a sample of elderly people. Methods: Controlled cohort study (secondary analyses) of a previous randomized-controlled trial with the first evaluation in April 2019 (T0) and then 48 weeks later (T1) during the lockdown. The regulation of social and behavioral rhythms was measured through the Brief Social Rhythms Scale (BSRS); the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ9) was adopted to detect relevant depressive symptoms. Results: 93 elderlies (73.36 ± 4.97 years old, 50.5% females) were evaluated at T0 and T1. Neither the total score of BSRS nor any of the 10 items showed a statistically significant difference comparing the two survey periods. The frequency of relevant depressive symptoms was 5.3% at T0 and 6.4% at T1 (OR = 0.8, CI95% 0.2–24). Conclusions: Among elderlies who did not show an increased risk of depression during the lockdown, social and behavioral rhythms remained exceptionally stable during the same period. Considering previous evidence about rhythms dysregulation preceding depression, their stability may be considered a factor of resilience.  Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mental Health)
16 pages, 6964 KiB  
Article
Study on the Hydrodynamic Evolution Mechanism and Drift Flow Patterns of Pipeline Gas–Liquid Flow
by Qing Yan, Donghui Li, Kefu Wang and Gaoan Zheng
Processes 2024, 12(4), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12040695 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The hydrodynamic characteristic of the multiphase mixed-transport pipeline is essential to guarantee safe and sustainable oil–gas transport when extracting offshore oil and gas resources. The gas–liquid two-phase transport phenomena lead to unstable flow, which significantly impacts pipeline deformation and can cause damage to [...] Read more.
The hydrodynamic characteristic of the multiphase mixed-transport pipeline is essential to guarantee safe and sustainable oil–gas transport when extracting offshore oil and gas resources. The gas–liquid two-phase transport phenomena lead to unstable flow, which significantly impacts pipeline deformation and can cause damage to the pipeline system. The formation mechanism of the mixed-transport pipeline slug flow faces significant challenges. This paper studies the formation mechanism of two-phase slug flows in mixed-transport pipelines with multiple inlet structures. A VOF-based gas–liquid slug flow mechanical model with multiple inlets is set up. With the volumetric force source term modifying strategy, the formation mechanism and flow patterns of slug flows are obtained. The research results show that the presented strategy and optimization design method can effectively simulate the formation and evolution trends of gas–liquid slug flows. Due to the convective shock process in the eight branch pipes, a bias flow phenomenon exists in the initial state and causes flow patterns to be unsteady. The gas–liquid mixture becomes relatively uniform after the flow field stabilizes. The design of the bent pipe structure results in an unbalanced flow velocity distribution and turbulence viscosity on both sides, presenting a banded distribution characteristic. The bend structure can reduce the bias phenomenon and improve sustainable transport stability. These findings provide theoretical guidance for fluid dynamics research in offshore oil and gas and chemical processes, and also offer technical support for mixed-transport pipeline sustainability transport and optimization design of channel structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Systems)
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11 pages, 727 KiB  
Article
Effect of Heat Treatment on Hygroscopicity of Chinese Fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata [Lamb.] Hook.) Wood
by Yulei Gao, Zhu Li, Liyuan Zhao and Jianxiong Lyu
Forests 2024, 15(4), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15040630 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata [Lamb.] Hook.) is a widely planted species of plantation forest in China, and heat treatment can improve its dimensional stability defects and improve its performance. The wood samples were heat-treated at various temperatures (160, 180, 200, and 220 [...] Read more.
Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata [Lamb.] Hook.) is a widely planted species of plantation forest in China, and heat treatment can improve its dimensional stability defects and improve its performance. The wood samples were heat-treated at various temperatures (160, 180, 200, and 220 °C) for 2 h. To clarify the effect of heat treatment on wood hygroscopicity, the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) was measured, the moisture adsorption and desorption rates were determined, the hygroscopic hysteresis was examined, and the Guggenheim, Anderson, and de Boer (GAB) model was fitted to the experimental data. The moisture absorption isotherms of all samples belonged to the Type II adsorption isotherm, but the shape of the desorption isotherm was more linear for heat-treated wood samples, especially when the heat treatment temperature was higher. According to the results analyzed with ANOVA, there were significant differences in equilibrium moisture content between the control samples and the heat-treated samples under the conditions of 30%, 60%, and 95% relative humidity (RH, p < 0.05), and the results of multiple comparisons were similar. The decrease in hygroscopicity was more pronounced in wood treated at higher temperatures. The EMC of the 160–220 °C heat-treated samples of the control samples was 14.00%, 22.37%, 28.95%, and 39.63% lower than that of the control sample at 95% RH. Under low RH conditions (30%), water is taken up mainly via monolayer sorption, and multilayer sorption gradually predominates over monolayer sorption with the increase in RH. The dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) analysis indicated that the heat-treated wood revealed an increase in isotherm hysteresis, which was due to the change in cell wall chemical components and microstructure caused by heat treatment. In addition, the effective specific surface area of wood samples decreased significantly after heat treatment, and the change trend was similar to that of equilibrium moisture content. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wood Science and Forest Products)
26 pages, 8971 KiB  
Article
Curculigoside Attenuates Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Induced Epithelial Cell and Fibroblast Senescence by Regulating the SIRT1-P300 Signaling Pathway
by Weixi Xie, Lang Deng, Rui Qian, Xiaoting Huang, Wei Liu and Siyuan Tang
Antioxidants 2024, 13(4), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13040420 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The senescence of alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) and fibroblasts plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a condition lacking specific therapeutic interventions. Curculigoside (CCG), a prominent bioactive constituent of Curculigo, exhibits anti-osteoporotic and antioxidant activities. Our investigation [...] Read more.
The senescence of alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) and fibroblasts plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a condition lacking specific therapeutic interventions. Curculigoside (CCG), a prominent bioactive constituent of Curculigo, exhibits anti-osteoporotic and antioxidant activities. Our investigation aimed to elucidate the anti-senescence and anti-fibrotic effects of CCG in experimental pulmonary fibrosis and delineate its underlying molecular mechanisms. Our findings demonstrate that CCG attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and lung senescence in murine models, concomitantly ameliorating lung function impairment. Immunofluorescence staining for senescence marker p21, alongside SPC or α-SMA, suggested that CCG’s mitigation of lung senescence correlates closely with the deceleration of senescence in AECs and fibroblasts. In vitro, CCG mitigated H2O2-induced senescence in AECs and the natural senescence of primary mouse fibroblasts. Mechanistically, CCG can upregulate SIRT1 expression, downregulating P300 expression, enhancing Trim72 expression to facilitate P300 ubiquitination and degradation, reducing the acetylation levels of antioxidant enzymes, and upregulating their expression levels. These actions collectively inhibited endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and alleviated senescence. Furthermore, the anti-senescence effects and mechanisms of CCG were validated in a D-galactose (D-gal)-induced progeroid model. This study provides novel insights into the mechanisms underlying the action of CCG in cellular senescence and chronic diseases, offering potential avenues for the development of innovative drugs or therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Antioxidant Ingredients from Natural Products)
45 pages, 3139 KiB  
Review
High-Resolution Frequency-Domain Spectroscopic and Modeling Studies of Photosystem I (PSI), PSI Mutants and PSI Supercomplexes
by Valter Zazubovich and Ryszard Jankowiak
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3850; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073850 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Photosystem I (PSI) is one of the two main pigment–protein complexes where the primary steps of oxygenic photosynthesis take place. This review describes low-temperature frequency-domain experiments (absorption, emission, circular dichroism, resonant and non-resonant hole-burned spectra) and modeling efforts reported for PSI in recent [...] Read more.
Photosystem I (PSI) is one of the two main pigment–protein complexes where the primary steps of oxygenic photosynthesis take place. This review describes low-temperature frequency-domain experiments (absorption, emission, circular dichroism, resonant and non-resonant hole-burned spectra) and modeling efforts reported for PSI in recent years. In particular, we focus on the spectral hole-burning studies, which are not as common in photosynthesis research as the time-domain spectroscopies. Experimental and modeling data obtained for trimeric cyanobacterial Photosystem I (PSI3), PSI3 mutants, and PSI3–IsiA18 supercomplexes are analyzed to provide a more comprehensive understanding of their excitonic structure and excitation energy transfer (EET) processes. Detailed information on the excitonic structure of photosynthetic complexes is essential to determine the structure–function relationship. We will focus on the so-called “red antenna states” of cyanobacterial PSI, as these states play an important role in photochemical processes and EET pathways. The high-resolution data and modeling studies presented here provide additional information on the energetics of the lowest energy states and their chlorophyll (Chl) compositions, as well as the EET pathways and how they are altered by mutations. We present evidence that the low-energy traps observed in PSI are excitonically coupled states with significant charge-transfer (CT) character. The analysis presented for various optical spectra of PSI3 and PSI3-IsiA18 supercomplexes allowed us to make inferences about EET from the IsiA18 ring to the PSI3 core and demonstrate that the number of entry points varies between sample preparations studied by different groups. In our most recent samples, there most likely are three entry points for EET from the IsiA18 ring per the PSI core monomer, with two of these entry points likely being located next to each other. Therefore, there are nine entry points from the IsiA18 ring to the PSI3 trimer. We anticipate that the data discussed below will stimulate further research in this area, providing even more insight into the structure-based models of these important cyanobacterial photosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Photosystem I)
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18 pages, 1341 KiB  
Article
Global Trends and Innovations in Forest Ecological Compensation: An Interdisciplinary Analysis
by Xiaoliang Shi, Jiayi Zhang, Ji Lu, Tierui Zhao, Haiou Yang, Aruna Aria, Yingying Qiu, Lin Yu and Yan Ni
Forests 2024, 15(4), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15040631 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Forest ecological benefit compensation protects the ecological environment, increases enthusiasm among forest ecological builders, protects the legitimate economic interests of forest landowners, and maintains environmental security. In this study, a systematic analysis was conducted on 4062 publications in the field of international forest [...] Read more.
Forest ecological benefit compensation protects the ecological environment, increases enthusiasm among forest ecological builders, protects the legitimate economic interests of forest landowners, and maintains environmental security. In this study, a systematic analysis was conducted on 4062 publications in the field of international forest ecological benefit compensation identified using the Web of Science core collection Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-E) and Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) databases alongside CiteSpace optical measurement software. The research status and influence of countries were tracked, scientific research institutions and important authors were identified, and interdisciplinary and scientific hotspots were analyzed. The results show that the number of studies in this field has significantly increased over time and has strong development potential. The journals and articles presenting cutting-edge research in this field are all considered highly professional. The selected research is highly interdisciplinary but primarily involves environmental science and ecology. Despite the publication volume of China ranking second among the top 10 countries, its average citation volume was the lowest, indicating the urgent need to increase the international influence of China. Forest biodiversity, ecosystem services, and climate change are current research hotspots in this field. Dynamic changes in forest ecological benefit compensation and the driving forces behind its evolution are of great concern to researchers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecology and Management)
11 pages, 421 KiB  
Systematic Review
Robotic Vascular Resection in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Systematic Review
by Victoria Zecchin Ferrara, Alessandro Martinino, Francesco Toti, Davide Schilirò, Federico Pinto, Francesco Giovinazzo and on behalf of the SMAGEICS Group
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 2000; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13072000 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: This study comprehensively compared robotic pancreatic surgery with vascular resection (RPS-VR) to other surgical procedures in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). (2) Methods: A systematic review of relevant literature was conducted to assess a range of crucial surgical and [...] Read more.
(1) Background: This study comprehensively compared robotic pancreatic surgery with vascular resection (RPS-VR) to other surgical procedures in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). (2) Methods: A systematic review of relevant literature was conducted to assess a range of crucial surgical and oncological outcomes. (3) Results: Findings indicate that robotic surgery with vascular resections (VRs) significantly prolongs the duration of surgery compared to other surgical procedures, and they notably demonstrate an equal hospital stay. While some studies reported a lower conversion rate and a higher rate of blood loss and blood transfusion in the RPS-VR group, others found no significant disparity. Furthermore, RPS-VR consistently correlated with comparable recurrence rates, free margins R0, postoperative mortality, and complication rates. Concerning the last one, certain reviews reported a higher rate of major complications. Overall survival and disease-free survival remained comparable between the RPS-VR and other surgical techniques in treating PDAC. (4) Conclusions: The analysis emphasizes how RPS-VR is a resembling approach in terms of surgical outcomes and aligns with existing literature findings in this field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Hepatobiliary Surgery)
13 pages, 670 KiB  
Article
The Use of Hanseniaspora opuntiae to Improve ‘Sideritis’ Wine Quality, a Late-Ripening Greek Grape Variety
by Maria-Evangelia Filippousi, Ioanna Chalvantzi, Athanasios Mallouchos, Ioannis Marmaras, Georgios Banilas and Aspasia Nisiotou
Foods 2024, 13(7), 1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071061 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In view of climate change and the increasingly antagonistic wine market, the exploitation of native genetic resources is revisited in relation to sustainable wine production. ‘Sideritis’ is a late-ripening Greek grape variety, which is quite promising for counteracting wine quality issues associated with [...] Read more.
In view of climate change and the increasingly antagonistic wine market, the exploitation of native genetic resources is revisited in relation to sustainable wine production. ‘Sideritis’ is a late-ripening Greek grape variety, which is quite promising for counteracting wine quality issues associated with the annual temperature rise. The aim of this study was to improve the quality and to enhance the aroma of ‘Sideritis’ wine through the use of native yeasts. To improve vinification, Hanseniaspora opuntiae L1 was used along with Saccharomyces cerevisiae W7 in mixed fermentations (SQ). The addition of H. οpuntiae significantly altered the chemical profile of the wine compared to the single-inoculated fermentations with W7 (IS). H. opuntiae increased all the acetate esters, except for hexyl acetate and (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol acetate. The concentration of 2-phenylethyl acetate, which imparts flowery and sweet notes, exhibited a 2.6-fold increase in SQ as compared to IS wines. SQ also showed higher levels in several ethyl esters, including ethyl butyrate, ethyl heptanoate and ethyl 7-octenoate, which are associated with fruity notes compared to IS. H. opuntiae produced citronellol, a terpene associated with rose and green notes, and increased the overall acceptance of the wine. Present results are thus quite promising for improving ‘Sideritis’ wine quality towards a sustainable wine production in Greece in view of global warming. Full article
14 pages, 2743 KiB  
Article
A Wearable Sandwich Heterostructure Multimode Fiber Optic Microbend Sensor for Vital Signal Monitoring
by Fumin Zhou, Binbin Luo, Xue Zou, Chaoke Zou, Decao Wu, Zhijun Wang, Yunfang Bai and Mingfu Zhao
Sensors 2024, 24(7), 2209; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24072209 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This work proposes a highly sensitive sandwich heterostructure multimode optical fiber microbend sensor for heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and ballistocardiography (BCG) monitoring, which is fabricated by combining a sandwich heterostructure multimode fiber Mach–Zehnder interferometer (SHMF-MZI) with a microbend deformer. The parameters [...] Read more.
This work proposes a highly sensitive sandwich heterostructure multimode optical fiber microbend sensor for heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and ballistocardiography (BCG) monitoring, which is fabricated by combining a sandwich heterostructure multimode fiber Mach–Zehnder interferometer (SHMF-MZI) with a microbend deformer. The parameters of the SHMF-MZI sensor and the microbend deformer were analyzed and optimized in detail, and then the new encapsulated method of the wearable device was put forward. The proposed wearable sensor could greatly enhance the response to the HR signal. The performances for HR, RR, and BCG monitoring were as good as those of the medically approved commercial monitors. The sensor has the advantages of high sensitivity, easy fabrication, and good stability, providing the potential for application in the field of daily supervision and health monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Monitoring with Optical Fiber Sensors)
21 pages, 5836 KiB  
Review
Acoustofluidic Actuation of Living Cells
by Yue Wu, Junyang Gai, Yuwen Zhao, Yi Liu and Yaling Liu
Micromachines 2024, 15(4), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15040466 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Acoutofluidics is an increasingly developing and maturing technical discipline. With the advantages of being label-free, non-contact, bio-friendly, high-resolution, and remote-controllable, it is very suitable for the operation of living cells. After decades of fundamental laboratory research, its technical principles have become increasingly clear, [...] Read more.
Acoutofluidics is an increasingly developing and maturing technical discipline. With the advantages of being label-free, non-contact, bio-friendly, high-resolution, and remote-controllable, it is very suitable for the operation of living cells. After decades of fundamental laboratory research, its technical principles have become increasingly clear, and its manufacturing technology has gradually become popularized. Presently, various imaginative applications continue to emerge and are constantly being improved. Here, we introduce the development of acoustofluidic actuation technology from the perspective of related manipulation applications on living cells. Among them, we focus on the main development directions such as acoustofluidic sorting, acoustofluidic tissue engineering, acoustofluidic microscopy, and acoustofluidic biophysical therapy. This review aims to provide a concise summary of the current state of research and bridge past developments with future directions, offering researchers a comprehensive overview and sparking innovation in the field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acoustic Micro/Nano Manipulation and Its Applications)
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