237 journals awarded Impact Factor
 
Find out more
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 

Recent Articles  

19 pages, 11892 KiB  
Article
Simulation and Optimization of the Throttle Releaser in Aerated Irrigation Systems
by Chaoxiang Sun, Dezhe Wang, Hailin Liu, Yatao Xiao, Wei Guo and Bing Liu
Agriculture 2024, 14(8), 1248; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14081248 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Aerated irrigation is an emerging and efficient irrigation technique, and the throttle-squeeze releaser (TS releaser) is a commonly used key component in aerated irrigation devices. However, it has issues such as large bubble size, uneven distribution, and low dissolved-oxygen content in the irrigation [...] Read more.
Aerated irrigation is an emerging and efficient irrigation technique, and the throttle-squeeze releaser (TS releaser) is a commonly used key component in aerated irrigation devices. However, it has issues such as large bubble size, uneven distribution, and low dissolved-oxygen content in the irrigation water. Given these problems, this study optimized the valve chamber and throat structure of the releaser based on the TS releaser, designing three different types of releasers with W-shaped valve chamber, arc-shaped valve chamber, and multi-throat W-shaped valve chamber. The simulation results, obtained using the Fluent module with grid division in ANSYS 2022, show that high-pressure regions are formed inside the releaser with V-shaped and arc-shaped valve chambers that are detrimental to the formation of microbubbles in high-pressure dissolved-air water, while the fluid pressure reduction and energy dissipation are more balanced inside the releasers with a W-shaped valve chamber. Compared to a single-throat design, the multi-throat design allows high-pressure fluid to enter the valve chamber more uniformly, which aids in maximizing the functionality and performance of the valve chamber. To determine the effects of throat size, outlet size, and valve chamber angle on the pressure field, turbulent flow field, velocity field, and air-phase distribution within the multi-throat W-shaped valve chamber releaser, simulation interaction experiments were conducted. The results showed that the optimized releaser performed best when the throat diameter was 1 mm, the outlet size was 2 mm, and the valve chamber angle was 80°. Finally, a comparative performance evaluation between the conventional TS diffuser and the optimized multi-throat W-valve chamber releaser reveals that the latter achieves a maximum dissolved-oxygen content of 6.36 mg/L in the treated irrigation water, representing an approximately 3.5% improvement over the 6.14 mg/L recorded by the traditional releaser. Furthermore, when considering the thresholds of irrigation flow rates above 950 L/h and dissolved-oxygen levels exceeding 5.9 mg/L, the multi-throat W-valve chamber diffuser exhibits a broader operational range characterized by high flow rates and dissolved-oxygen levels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Emerging Agricultural Engineering Sciences, Technologies, and Applications—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 261 KiB  
Article
Turning the Tide against Herpes Zoster in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Treated with JAK Inhibitors
by Andrea Cito, Marco Fornaro, Angela Carenza, Maria Grazia Anelli, Crescenzio Scioscia, Florenzo Iannone and Giuseppe Lopalco
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(15), 4423; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13154423 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of Herpes Zoster (HZ) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi), and to predict potential risk factors for HZ development. Methods: We retrospectively analysed medical records from RA [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of Herpes Zoster (HZ) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi), and to predict potential risk factors for HZ development. Methods: We retrospectively analysed medical records from RA patients at our rheumatology unit who met the 2010 ACR/EULAR criteria for RA and were receiving JAKi. The incidence and course of HZ were assessed through chart review and supplementary phone interviews. Results: A total of 198 JAKi-treated patients were monitored for an average of 18.5 months. Nine subjects experienced HZ, resulting in an incidence of 2.95 per 100 patient-years. No demographic or treatment-related differences were found among patients who developed HZ and those who did not. Disease duration (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.12), time on JAKi treatment (OR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.009–1.073), higher disease activity at JAKi initiation (OR: 4.16, 95% CI: 1.07–16.17), and at 3-month follow-up (OR: 6.0, 95% CI: 1.35–26.60) were identified as predictors of HZ occurrence. Thirty-six patients received vaccination against HZ, and none reported adverse reactions or flare-ups during a mean follow-up of 9.6 months. Conclusions: The incidence of HZ aligns with published data, suggesting that disease and treatment duration, as well as disease activity, are significant predictors of HZ in RA patients on JAKi therapy. Vaccination against HZ proved to be safe and effective, underscoring its potential protective value in this patient population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Updates on Rheumatoid Arthritis)
13 pages, 222 KiB  
Article
“Religious Education for All 2.0”: The Hamburg Approach of Shared Religious Education
by Jochen Bauer
Religions 2024, 15(8), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15080916 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Hamburg’s “Religious Education for All” (RUfa 2.0) is a confessional multifaith approach to shared religious education and a new and unique concept in Germany and Europe. All large religious communities in Hamburg collaborate their legal responsibility for its content. RUfa 2.0 [...] Read more.
Hamburg’s “Religious Education for All” (RUfa 2.0) is a confessional multifaith approach to shared religious education and a new and unique concept in Germany and Europe. All large religious communities in Hamburg collaborate their legal responsibility for its content. RUfa 2.0 is neither grounded in neutral religious studies nor in pluralistic theology of religion but relies on differentiated learning arrangements. They enable students to learn about their own religion, to learn about other religions and to develop their religious identity through dialogue. This article outlines development, legal and organizational frameworks, goals and competences, didactical principles, teacher roles and teacher training and places them in a European perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shared Religious Education)
16 pages, 2353 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Analysis of a Uniform Microbeam Resting on a Nonlinear Foundation Considering Its Curvature Subjected to a Mechanical Impact and Electromagnetic Actuation
by Nicolae Herisanu, Bogdan Marinca and Vasile Marinca
Micromachines 2024, 15(8), 969; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15080969 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
This study proposes an investigation into the nonlinear vibration of a simply supported, flexible, uniform microbeam associated with its curvature considering the mechanical impact, the electromagnetic actuation, the nonlinear Winkler–Pasternak foundation, and the longitudinal magnetic field. The governing differential equations and the boundary [...] Read more.
This study proposes an investigation into the nonlinear vibration of a simply supported, flexible, uniform microbeam associated with its curvature considering the mechanical impact, the electromagnetic actuation, the nonlinear Winkler–Pasternak foundation, and the longitudinal magnetic field. The governing differential equations and the boundary conditions are modeled within the framework of a Euler–Bernoulli beam considering an element of the length of the beam at rest and using the second-order approximation of the deflected beam and the Galerkin–Bubnov procedure. In this work, we present a novel characterization of the microbeam and a novel method to solve the nonlinear vibration of the microactuator. The resulting equation of this complex problem is studied using the Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method, employing some auxiliary functions derived from the terms that appear in the equation of motion. An explicit closed-form analytical solution is proposed, proving that our procedure is a powerful tool for solving a nonlinear problem without the presence of small or large parameters. The presence of some convergence-control parameters assures the rapid convergence of the solutions. These parameters are evaluated using some rigorous mathematical procedures. The present approach is very accurate and easy to implement, even for complicated nonlinear problems. The local stability near the primary resonance is studied. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue MEMS Actuators and Their Applications)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 889 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Impact of Regular Physical Activity on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Dementia Patients in High-Income Countries—A Systematic Scoping Review
by Simranjeet Kaur, Sai Hymn Sree Cherukuri, Sheikh Mahbub Murshed, Adiyasuren Purev-Ochir, Erini Abdelmassih and Fahad Hanna
Geriatrics 2024, 9(4), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics9040098 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms impacting memory, thinking, and social abilities. Evidence suggests a positive role of physical activity in physical and mental well-being in general. This systematic scoping review aimed to gather, summarise, and analyse [...] Read more.
Background: Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms impacting memory, thinking, and social abilities. Evidence suggests a positive role of physical activity in physical and mental well-being in general. This systematic scoping review aimed to gather, summarise, and analyse evidence of the impact of physical activity on the mental health and well-being of dementia patients. Methods: A comprehensive systematic search of mainly primary research was conducted using several databases. Peer-reviewed studies in high-income countries published between 2005 and 2023 were included. The systematic scoping review was performed using the framework outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) statement. Results: Twenty-four articles (including 93,984 participants) were included in the analysis. Most articles (21) reported that physical activity (particularly regular physical activity) is associated with decreased depression score, decreased cognition impairment, and fewer falls, all of which contributed to improved well-being among dementia patients. These studies showed that there is a significant positive relationship between the level of physical activity and the level of improvement in the mental health and well-being of dementia patients. Conclusions: Findings from this systematic scoping review provide relatively reliable evidence that regular physical activity may improve the mental health and well-being of dementia patients. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses may be required to further confirm these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Geriatric Public Health)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4155 KiB  
Article
Study on the Evolution Law of Temperature, Pressure, and Productivity near the Well for Gas Hydrate Exploitation by Depressurization
by Rongrong Qi, Hongfeng Lu, Chenlu Xu, Lu Yu, Changwen Xiao, Jinwen Du and Yan Li
Energies 2024, 17(15), 3728; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17153728 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
In this paper, a one-dimensional model of gas–water two-phase productivity for hydrate depressurization is established, which takes into account permeability variation and gas–water two-phase flow. By solving the coupled algebraic equations of dissociation front position, equilibrium temperature, and pressure in an iterative scheme, [...] Read more.
In this paper, a one-dimensional model of gas–water two-phase productivity for hydrate depressurization is established, which takes into account permeability variation and gas–water two-phase flow. By solving the coupled algebraic equations of dissociation front position, equilibrium temperature, and pressure in an iterative scheme, the movement law of the hydrate dissociation front and the evolution process of temperature and pressure near the well were obtained, and the effects of bottom hole pressure, reservoir temperature, and hydrate saturation on productivity were analyzed. The results show that the hydrate reservoir is divided into a decomposed zone and an undecomposed zone by the dissociation front, and the temperature and pressure gradients of the former are greater than those of the latter. Reducing bottom hole pressure, increasing reservoir temperature, and increasing hydrate saturation all lead to an increase in temperature and pressure gradient in the decomposed zone. Methane gas production is a sensitive function of bottom hole pressure, reservoir temperature, and hydrate saturation. The lower the bottom hole pressure, the higher the reservoir temperature, the lower the hydrate saturation (within a certain range), and the higher the gas production rate. The trend of the water production curve is the same as that of gas, but the value is 3–4 orders of magnitude smaller, which may be due to the large difference in the viscosity of gas and water, and the gas seepage speed is much larger than that of water. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Formation, Exploration and Development of Natural Gas Hydrate)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1092 KiB  
Review
Advances in Therapeutic Peptides Separation and Purification
by Othman Al Musaimi and Da’san M. M. Jaradat
Separations 2024, 11(8), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11080233 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Peptides are gaining prominence in various fields, including the pharmaceutical industry. To meet regulatory requirements, they must achieve a certain purity threshold to ensure safe administration. Numerous purification technologies have been employed to purify peptides, aiming to reduce cost and time while being [...] Read more.
Peptides are gaining prominence in various fields, including the pharmaceutical industry. To meet regulatory requirements, they must achieve a certain purity threshold to ensure safe administration. Numerous purification technologies have been employed to purify peptides, aiming to reduce cost and time while being sustainable and efficient. These include chromatography, magnetic nanoparticles, isoelectric focusing, and membrane filtration. The physicochemical properties of peptides are the main driving element behind these technologies. While chromatographic separation remains the gold standard for peptide separation and purification, with various models to predict the elution behaviors of peptides, other technologies have demonstrated their capability to meet the performance of established chromatographic methodologies, with better productivity and reduced cost. This opens the door for further investigational studies to assess these outcomes and potentially introduce new techniques for peptide purification. In this review, we examine these technologies in terms of their efficiency and their ability to meet sustainability requirements, concluding with remarks and an outlook on future advancements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Peptide Synthesis, Separation and Purification)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3167 KiB  
Review
Long COVID Is Not a Functional Neurologic Disorder
by Todd E. Davenport, Svetlana Blitshteyn, Nicola Clague-Baker, David Davies-Payne, Glenn J. Treisman and Sarah F. Tyson
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(8), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14080799 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Long COVID is a common sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Data from numerous scientific studies indicate that long COVID involves a complex interaction between pathophysiological processes. Long COVID may involve the development of new diagnosable health conditions and exacerbation of pre-existing health conditions. However, [...] Read more.
Long COVID is a common sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Data from numerous scientific studies indicate that long COVID involves a complex interaction between pathophysiological processes. Long COVID may involve the development of new diagnosable health conditions and exacerbation of pre-existing health conditions. However, despite this rapidly accumulating body of evidence regarding the pathobiology of long COVID, psychogenic and functional interpretations of the illness presentation continue to be endorsed by some healthcare professionals, creating confusion and inappropriate diagnostic and therapeutic pathways for people living with long COVID. The purpose of this perspective is to present a clinical and scientific rationale for why long COVID should not be considered as a functional neurologic disorder. It will begin by discussing the parallel historical development of pathobiological and psychosomatic/sociogenic diagnostic constructs arising from a common root in neurasthenia, which has resulted in the collective understandings of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and functional neurologic disorder (FND), respectively. We will also review the case definition criteria for FND and the distinguishing clinical and neuroimaging findings in FND vs. long COVID. We conclude that considering long COVID as FND is inappropriate based on differentiating pathophysiologic mechanisms and distinguishing clinical findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Challenges and Perspectives in Neurology and Autonomic Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 307 KiB  
Article
Revisiting Dynamics of Quantum Causal Structures—When Can Causal Order Evolve?
by John H. Selby, Ana Belén Sainz and Paweł Horodecki
Entropy 2024, 26(8), 643; https://doi.org/10.3390/e26080643 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Recently, there has been substantial interest in studying the dynamics of quantum theory beyond that of states, in particular, the dynamics of channels, measurements, and higher-order transformations. Castro-Ruiz et al. pursues this using the process-matrix formalism, together with a definition of the possible [...] Read more.
Recently, there has been substantial interest in studying the dynamics of quantum theory beyond that of states, in particular, the dynamics of channels, measurements, and higher-order transformations. Castro-Ruiz et al. pursues this using the process-matrix formalism, together with a definition of the possible dynamics of such process matrices, and focusing especially on the question of evolution of causal structures. One of its major conclusions is a strong theorem saying that within the formalism, under continuous and reversible transformations, the causal order between operations must be preserved. Our result here challenges that of Castro-Ruiz et al.: if one is to take into account a full picture of the physical evolution of operations within the standard quantum–mechanical formalism, then the conclusion of Castro-Ruiz et al. does not hold. That is, we show that under certain continuous and reversible dynamics, the causal order between operations is not necessarily preserved. We moreover identify and analyse the root of this apparent contradiction, specifically, that the commonly accepted and widely applied framework of higher-order processes, whilst mathematically sound, is not always appropriate for drawing conclusions on physical dynamics. Finally, we show how to reconcile the elements of the whole picture following the intuition based on entanglement processing by local operations and classical communication. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Quantum Information)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 915 KiB  
Article
Isavuconazole Pharmacokinetics in Critically Ill Patients: Relationship with Clinical Effectiveness and Patient Safety
by María Martín-Cerezuela, Cristina Maya Gallegos, María Remedios Marqués-Miñana, María Jesús Broch Porcar, Andrés Cruz-Sánchez, Juan Carlos Mateo-Pardo, José Esteban Peris Ribera, Ricardo Gimeno, Álvaro Castellanos-Ortega, José Luis Poveda Andrés and Paula Ramírez Galleymore
Antibiotics 2024, 13(8), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13080706 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Isavuconazole is used to treat fungal infections. This study aims to describe isavuconazole pharmacokinetics in critically ill patients and evaluate their relationship with clinical efficacy and patient safety. We conducted a prospective, observational study in patients treated with intravenous isavuconazole. Samples were collected [...] Read more.
Isavuconazole is used to treat fungal infections. This study aims to describe isavuconazole pharmacokinetics in critically ill patients and evaluate their relationship with clinical efficacy and patient safety. We conducted a prospective, observational study in patients treated with intravenous isavuconazole. Samples were collected at predose (Cmin), 1 h (Cmax) and 12 h (C50) after the last dose. The plasma concentration was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The relationship between plasma concentration and clinical and microbiological outcomes and safety was evaluated. The influence of covariates (age, sex, weight, SAPS3, creatinine, liver enzymes and extracorporeal devices: continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)) was analysed. Population pharmacokinetic modelling was performed using NONMEN®. A total of 71 isavuconazole samples from 24 patients were analysed. The mean Cmin was 1.76 (1.02) mg/L; 87.5% reached the optimal therapeutic target and 12.5% were below 1 mg/L. Population pharmacokinetics were best described by a one-compartment model with first-order elimination. No factor had a significant impact on the plasma concentration or pharmacokinetic parameters. Thus, isavuconazole could be safely used in a critically ill population, even in those treated with CRRT and ECMO, from a pharmacokinetic standpoint. Therefore, routine therapeutic drug monitoring may not be strictly necessary in daily clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Bridging the Gap: Translational and Clinical Approaches on Antibiotic Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1132 KiB  
Article
MM-Transformer: A Transformer-Based Knowledge Graph Link Prediction Model That Fuses Multimodal Features
by Dongsheng Wang, Kangjie Tang, Jun Zeng, Yue Pan, Yun Dai, Huige Li and Bin Han
Symmetry 2024, 16(8), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16080961 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Multimodal knowledge graph completion necessitates the integration of information from multiple modalities (such as images and text) into the structural representation of entities to improve link prediction. However, most existing studies have overlooked the interaction between different modalities and the symmetry in the [...] Read more.
Multimodal knowledge graph completion necessitates the integration of information from multiple modalities (such as images and text) into the structural representation of entities to improve link prediction. However, most existing studies have overlooked the interaction between different modalities and the symmetry in the modal fusion process. To address this issue, this paper proposed a Transformer-based knowledge graph link prediction model (MM-Transformer) that fuses multimodal features. Different modal encoders are employed to extract structural, visual, and textual features, and symmetrical hybrid key-value calculations are performed on features from different modalities based on the Transformer architecture. The similarities of textual tags to structural tags and visual tags are calculated and aggregated, respectively, and multimodal entity representations are modeled and optimized to reduce the heterogeneity of the representations. The experimental results show that compared with the current multimodal SOTA method, MKGformer, MM-Transformer improves the Hits@1 and Hits@10 evaluation indicators by 1.17% and 1.39%, respectively, proving that the proposed method can effectively solve the problem of multimodal feature fusion in the knowledge graph link prediction task. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Computer Vision, Pattern Recognition, Machine Learning and Symmetry)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 14669 KiB  
Article
Genome-Wide Analysis and Expression Profiling of Lectin Receptor-like Kinase Genes in Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)
by Duo Lv, Gang Wang, Jiaqi You, Lihua Zhu, Hongjuan Yang, Biting Cao, Weihong Gu and Chaohan Li
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(15), 8257; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25158257 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Watermelon is one of the most important edible plants worldwide. Owing to its special cultivation conditions, watermelon is exposed to many biological and abiotic stresses during its development. Lectin receptor-like kinases (LecRLKs) are plant-specific membrane proteins that play important roles in sensing and [...] Read more.
Watermelon is one of the most important edible plants worldwide. Owing to its special cultivation conditions, watermelon is exposed to many biological and abiotic stresses during its development. Lectin receptor-like kinases (LecRLKs) are plant-specific membrane proteins that play important roles in sensing and responding to environmental stimuli. Although the LecRLK gene family has been identified in a variety of plants, a comprehensive analysis has not yet been undertaken in watermelon. In this study, 61 putative LecRLK genes were identified in watermelon, consisting of 36 G-type, 24 L-type, and 1 C-type LecRLK genes. They were distributed in clusters on chromosomes, and members from the same subfamily were mostly clustered together. The analysis of the phylogenetic tree and conserved motif indicated that there were obvious differences among three ClaLecRLK subfamilies, and there was also rich diversity in the C-terminal within subfamilies. A collinear analysis revealed that the evolution of the ClaLecRLK gene family in different Cucurbitaceae crops was asynchronous. Furthermore, the analysis of the ClaLecRLK protein structure showed that not all proteins contained signal peptides and a single transmembrane domain. A subcellular localization assay confirmed that the number and position of transmembrane domains did not affect ClaLecRLK protein localization in cells. Transcriptome data revealed distinct expression patterns of LecRLK genes of watermelon in various tissues, and their responses to different fungi infection were also significantly different. Finally, the potential binding sites of the ClaLecRLK genes targeted by miRNA were predicted. This study enhances the understanding of the characteristics and functions of the LecRLK gene family in watermelon and opens up the possibility of exploring the roles that LecRLK genes may play in the life cycle of Cucurbitaceae plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Plant Sciences)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 693 KiB  
Article
A Novel SCA-Based SOCP Method for Time-Varying Beamforming Optimization in RIS-Assisted MU-MISO Downlinks
by Fenghui Yang, Ting Liu and Sijia Liu
Electronics 2024, 13(15), 2981; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13152981 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) is composed of large quantities of inexpensive passive elements, which is able to adjust phase and amplitude shifts to reduce the system power consumption. However, the complex coupling in the RIS-aided system makes the power minimization (PowerMin) problem more [...] Read more.
Reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) is composed of large quantities of inexpensive passive elements, which is able to adjust phase and amplitude shifts to reduce the system power consumption. However, the complex coupling in the RIS-aided system makes the power minimization (PowerMin) problem more difficult when compared to conventional systems. In this paper, a three-dimensional (3D) time-varying channel model is proposed for RIS-assisted networks and a downlink expression between mobile vehicles and users is derived. Additionally, a successive convex approximation (SCA) method is provided and the transmitter beamformer and RIS phase shifts are updated simultaneously at each iteration to achieve a satisfactory numerical solution. Ultimately, the simulation model in MOSEK version 10.1.28 is utilized to verify the effectiveness of analytical results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Millimeter-Wave and Terahertz Technologies for Wireless Communications)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 503 KiB  
Article
Comparison of the Fatty Acid Profiles of Sow and Goat Colostrum
by Lucía Ayala, Pilar Gómez-Cortés, Fuensanta Hernández, Josefa Madrid, Silvia Martínez-Miró and Miguel Angel de la Fuente
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(8), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11080341 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Currently, the utilization of hyperprolific sows has stimulated the search for supplements aimed at enhancing piglet survival, as these sows yield more offspring than they can adequately feed with their colostrum production. In contrast, intensive goat farming often yields surplus colostrum, thus necessitating [...] Read more.
Currently, the utilization of hyperprolific sows has stimulated the search for supplements aimed at enhancing piglet survival, as these sows yield more offspring than they can adequately feed with their colostrum production. In contrast, intensive goat farming often yields surplus colostrum, thus necessitating its removal, since kids are exclusively fed colostrum through lactation solely within the initial day of birth. The objective of this study was to examine and compare the fatty acid (FA) profiles of colostrum from sows and goats, together with possible influencing factors such as sow parity and the postpartum day of the goat, for possible use as an energy supplement for neonatal piglets. Swine colostrum was collected from sows with a 0–5 parity. In addition, samples of goat colostrum were collected on their first (D1) and second (D2) days of postpartum milking. The FA profiles of the colostrum were analyzed via gas chromatography. The parity value of the sows did not affect (p > 0.05) the FA colostrum composition. High proportions of palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids were found in both types of colostrum. Levels of palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids were significantly higher in D1 goat colostrum, whereas saturated FAs of less than 14 carbons (4:0, 6:0, 8:0, 10:0, and 12:0) were found in higher proportions in D2. These FAs play an important role in colostrum as they are a readily available source of energy and have also been attributed strong antibacterial activity. Therefore, goat colostrum, especially D2, could be used as an alternative energy supplement for newborn piglets, in particular for the weakest and smallest of the litter, which are the most in need. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

3 pages, 187 KiB  
Editorial
Dietary Patterns in Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders
by Laura Compañ-Gabucio, Laura Torres-Collado and Manuela García-de-la-Hera
Nutrients 2024, 16(15), 2460; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16152460 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), of which Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are two of the most common, are described as a group of conditions that begin in the developmental period and lead to deficits that impair functioning [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Patterns: Do Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders Eat Differently?)
2 pages, 148 KiB  
Editorial
Preface: The 4th Annual Conference Solar and Wind Power
by Nazmi Sellami, Firdaus Muhammad-Sukki and Pablo Sola
Eng. Proc. 2024, 71(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024071001 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
The 4th Annual Conference on Solar and Wind Power, organised by the School of Computing, Engineering, and the Built Environment at Edinburgh Napier University, took place on the 5th of June, 2024 [...] Full article
18 pages, 11836 KiB  
Article
Flood Mapping of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Imagery Based on Semi-Automatic Thresholding and Change Detection
by Fengkai Lang, Yanyin Zhu, Jinqi Zhao, Xinru Hu, Hongtao Shi, Nanshan Zheng and Jianfeng Zha
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(15), 2763; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16152763 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology has become an important means of flood monitoring because of its large coverage, repeated observation, and all-weather and all-time working capabilities. The commonly used thresholding and change detection methods in emergency monitoring can quickly and simply detect floods. [...] Read more.
Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology has become an important means of flood monitoring because of its large coverage, repeated observation, and all-weather and all-time working capabilities. The commonly used thresholding and change detection methods in emergency monitoring can quickly and simply detect floods. However, these methods still have some problems: (1) thresholding methods are easily affected by low backscattering regions and speckle noise; (2) changes from multi-temporal information include urban renewal and seasonal variation, reducing the precision of flood monitoring. To solve these problems, this paper presents a new flood mapping framework that combines semi-automatic thresholding and change detection. First, multiple lines across land and water are drawn manually, and their local optimal thresholds are calculated automatically along these lines from two ends towards the middle. Using the average of these thresholds, the low backscattering regions are extracted to generate a preliminary inundation map. Then, the neighborhood-based change detection method combined with entropy thresholding is adopted to detect the changed areas. Finally, pixels in both the low backscattering regions and the changed regions are marked as inundated terrain. Two flood datasets, one from Sentinel-1 in the Wharfe and Ouse River basin and another from GF-3 in Chaohu are chosen to verify the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed method. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1674 KiB  
Article
Chicken Meal as a Fishmeal Substitute: Effects on Growth, Antioxidants, and Digestive Enzymes in Lithobates catesbeianus
by Bo Zhu, Wenjie Xu, Zhenyan Dai, Chuang Shao, Yi Hu and Kaijian Chen
Animals 2024, 14(15), 2200; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14152200 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
In pursuit of sustainable aquaculture, this study was performed to evaluate chicken meal as a substitute for fishmeal in bullfrog diets. Three experimental groups were established: a control group (FM) with 20% fishmeal, a CM50 group with 50% replacement (10% fishmeal), and a [...] Read more.
In pursuit of sustainable aquaculture, this study was performed to evaluate chicken meal as a substitute for fishmeal in bullfrog diets. Three experimental groups were established: a control group (FM) with 20% fishmeal, a CM50 group with 50% replacement (10% fishmeal), and a CM100 group with 100% replacement (0 fishmeal). Bullfrogs were fed for 56 days. The CM50 group exhibited significant increases in total weight gain and survival rate and a notable decrease in feed coefficient (p < 0.05). However, the CM100 group showed contrary effects. Increasing chicken meal substitution correlated with decreased amino acid content in muscle. Notably, the CM50 group demonstrated enhanced activities of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, T-AOC) and elevated gene expression levels (cat, sod, gst, etc.) in muscle and the intestine (p < 0.05), improved intestinal morphology, enhanced digestive enzyme activities (amylase, lipase), and reduced expression of inflammatory factors (il-1β, il-8, il-17, etc.). Conversely, the CM100 group’s indicators regressed to levels similar to or worse than those of the FM group. Therefore, a 50% substitution of fishmeal with chicken meal effectively promoted bullfrog survival, protected the intestines, and enhanced antioxidant capacity, supporting its potential as a fishmeal alternative. However, the adverse outcomes of the CM100 strategy, including growth retardation and reduced amino acid content in muscle, indicate that complete replacement is unsuitable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Aquaculture Nutrition for Sustainable Health Management)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 7973 KiB  
Article
Brazing of TC4 Alloy Using Ti-Zr-Ni-Cu-Sn Amorphous Braze Fillers
by Zhan Sun, Boyu Zhang, Degang Li, Xinxin Zhu, Qing Chang, Bo Zhang, Lixia Zhang, Weimin Long and Sujuan Zhong
Materials 2024, 17(15), 3745; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17153745 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
In order to address the issues of excessive brittle intermetallic compounds (IMC) formation in the TC4 brazed joints, two types of novel Ti-Zr-Cu-Ni-Sn amorphous braze fillers were designed. The microstructure and shear strength of the TC4/Ti-Zr-Ni-Cu-Sn/TC4 brazed joints were studied by scanning electron [...] Read more.
In order to address the issues of excessive brittle intermetallic compounds (IMC) formation in the TC4 brazed joints, two types of novel Ti-Zr-Cu-Ni-Sn amorphous braze fillers were designed. The microstructure and shear strength of the TC4/Ti-Zr-Ni-Cu-Sn/TC4 brazed joints were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and electronic universal materials testing machine. The results show that the optimized Ti35Zr25Ni15Cu20Sn5 braze filler whose chemical composition is closer to the eutectic point possesses a lower melting point compared with the equiatomic Ti23.75Zr23.75Ni23.75Cu23.75Sn5. This was beneficial to the sufficient diffusion of Cu and Ni elements with the base metal during brazing and reduces the residual (Ti,Zr)2(Ni,Cu) content in the joint, which helps to improve the joint performance. The room-temperature and high-temperature shear strength of the TC4 brazed joints using the near eutectic component Ti35Zr25Ni15Cu20Sn5 filler reached a maximum of 472 MPa and 389 MPa at 970 °C/10 min, which was 66% and 48% higher than that of the TC4 joints brazed with the equiatomic Ti23.75Zr23.75Ni23.75Cu23.75Sn5 braze filler. Microstructural evolution and the corresponding mechanical response were in-depth discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Laser Welding and Laser Additive Manufacturing)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 2188 KiB  
Case Report
Heterotopic Tubal Choriocarcinoma Coexistent with a Viable Intrauterine Pregnancy: A Case Report
by Arnoldas Bartusevicius, Egle Bartuseviciene, Minginte Maseviciene, Arturas Sukovas, Ieva Birbalaite and Migle Karpaviciute
Medicina 2024, 60(8), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60081226 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Choriocarcinoma is an aggressive oncological disease that manifests as trophoblast tissue proliferation. The vast majority of primary lesions affect the uterus, with primarily extrauterine lesions being a rarity. Choriocarcinoma with an ongoing pregnancy is extremely rare because fetuses usually do [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Choriocarcinoma is an aggressive oncological disease that manifests as trophoblast tissue proliferation. The vast majority of primary lesions affect the uterus, with primarily extrauterine lesions being a rarity. Choriocarcinoma with an ongoing pregnancy is extremely rare because fetuses usually do not survive the third trimester. Case Report: We present a case of heterotopic tubal choriocarcinoma coexisting with a viable intrauterine pregnancy. A 30-year-old, 39-week pregnant woman (gravida 2, para 2) came to our hospital complaining of acute upper abdominal pain. During routine prenatal screening in the first trimester, no pathological ultrasound findings were detected. Similar abdominal pain episodes had been recorded at 18, 27, and 32 weeks of gestation, when patient was hospitalized for examination and observation, but the cause of symptoms at that time of gestation remained unclear. The patient underwent an emergency caesarean section due to severe abdominal pain and fetal compromise. She delivered a live male infant. During the surgery, around 1000 mL of blood clots were evacuated, and the excision of the right fallopian tube and masses, as well as the control of significant blood loss was performed. Postoperative serum beta-hCG was elevated to 139 482 IU/L, while imaging studies showed no metastasis. The histological examination of the excised tissue samples confirmed a diagnosis of tubal choriocarcinoma. With a FIGO score of 8, the patient received three courses of the EP/EMA regimen. After more than a year, the patient showed no radiographic signs of distant metastasis and is now in complete remission. Conclusions: This case highlights the diagnostic complexity of such extremely rare scenarios. Even though such cases are rare, it demonstrates the necessity for improved diagnostic measures to enhance patient outcomes in similar clinical situations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics and Gynecology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 1360 KiB  
Article
A Study on the Effectiveness of VR Rehabilitation Training Content for Older Individuals with Total Knee Replacement: Pilot Study
by DooChul Shin and SoungKyun Hong
Healthcare 2024, 12(15), 1500; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12151500 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
There is a paucity of research applying fully immersive virtual reality (VR) training to older adults with degenerative joint disease. This study investigated the effects of a training program utilizing fully immersive VR games on proprioception and gait ability in older patients with [...] Read more.
There is a paucity of research applying fully immersive virtual reality (VR) training to older adults with degenerative joint disease. This study investigated the effects of a training program utilizing fully immersive VR games on proprioception and gait ability in older patients with degenerative arthritis who had undergone total knee arthroplasty. This randomized controlled trial enrolled patients aged ≥65 years who were diagnosed with knee joint arthritis and had undergone knee arthroplasty followed by physical therapy. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (receiving training using fully immersive VR games along with regular physical therapy) and a control group (receiving only regular physical therapy). The intervention was conducted five times a week for four weeks. Knee joint proprioception was measured using Biodex before and after the intervention. Spatial–temporal gait variables were collected using OptoGait for gait assessment. There was a significant decrease in the absolute error values of proprioception after the intervention in the experimental group, compared to before (p < 0.05), indicating improvement in proprioception. Gait speed, step count, and stride length improved significantly (p < 0.05, p < 0.01), demonstrating an enhancement in gait ability. The experimental group showed significantly greater improvements in gait speed, step count, and stride length than the control group (p < 0.01). Training using a fully immersive VR exercise program may have potential benefits for improving proprioception and gait parameters in patients who have undergone total knee arthroplasty. Fully immersive VR game-based training can be utilized as an effective rehabilitation intervention for patients undergoing knee arthroplasty in the future. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3410 KiB  
Article
Blockchain-Driven Supply Chain Analytics and Sustainable Performance: Analysis Using PLS-SEM and ANFIS
by Shervin Espahbod, Arash Tashakkori, Mahsa Mohsenibeigzadeh, Mehrnaz Zarei, Ghasem Golshan Arani, Maria Dzikuć and Maciej Dzikuć
Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6469; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156469 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the impact of blockchain-driven supply chain analytics on the dimensions of lean, agile, resilient, green, and sustainable (LARGS) supply chain management, as well as supply chain innovation (SCI) and sustainable supply chain performance (SSCP). The research involved 262 managers and [...] Read more.
This study investigated the impact of blockchain-driven supply chain analytics on the dimensions of lean, agile, resilient, green, and sustainable (LARGS) supply chain management, as well as supply chain innovation (SCI) and sustainable supply chain performance (SSCP). The research involved 262 managers and vice presidents of supply chains from large- and medium-sized manufacturing companies listed in the Tehran Stock Exchange. A hybrid approach utilizing structural equations modelling with partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS) technique was employed for data analysis. The findings demonstrated a significantly positive effect of blockchain-driven supply chain analytics on SCI, the LARGS supply chain, and SSCP. Additionally, SCI exhibited a significantly positive impact on the LARGS supply chain and SSCP. Moreover, the LARGS supply chain was shown to have a significantly positive influence on SSCP. Both SCI and the LARGS supply chain played positive and significant mediating roles in the impact of blockchain-driven supply chain analytics on SSCP. Furthermore, the LARGS supply chain also acted as a significant mediator in the effect of SCI on SSCP. Lastly, SCI had a positive and significant mediating role in the impact of blockchain-driven supply chain analytics on the LARGS supply chain. In conclusion, it can be inferred that blockchain-driven supply chain analytics contributes to the enhancement of SSCP through the facilitation of SCI and the promotion of LARGS supply chain principles. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 9750 KiB  
Article
A Density Clustering RAPID Based on an Array-Compensated Damage Index for Quantitative Damage Diagnosis
by Qiao Bao, Tian Xie, Yan Zhuang and Qiang Wang
Sensors 2024, 24(15), 4904; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24154904 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Guided wave array-based structural health monitoring (SHM) is a promising solution for diagnosing damage in metal-connected structures. In this field, the reconstruction algorithm for probabilistic inspection (RAPID) is one of the most widely used algorithms for performing damage localization. In this paper, a [...] Read more.
Guided wave array-based structural health monitoring (SHM) is a promising solution for diagnosing damage in metal-connected structures. In this field, the reconstruction algorithm for probabilistic inspection (RAPID) is one of the most widely used algorithms for performing damage localization. In this paper, a density clustering RAPID based on an array-compensated damage index is proposed. A new probability distribution function was constructed based on a new damage index, which is adaptive to different elements in the sensor array to compensate for performance variation. Then, the imaging matrix of the RAPID algorithm was density-clustered to obtain the location and degree of damage. Finally, the method was verified by experiments on a stiffened aluminum plate. The experimental results demonstrate that the method achieves damage localization and enables quantitative damage diagnosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fault Diagnosis & Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

More Articles...

Open Access Journals

► Browse by Indexing ► Browse by Subject ► Selected Journals
Explore All Journals...

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

More Books and Reprints...

News

26 July 2024
MDPI’s Best Paper Awards—Award-Winning Papers in 2023 Announced
25 July 2024
MDPI Books Unveils New Website and Launches Engaging Blog
17 July 2024
New and Emerging MDPI Journals Making an Immediate Impact
More News & Announcements...

Blog Posts

More From Our Blog...

Topics

More Topics...
loading...

Selected Special Issues

Selected Collections

Back to TopTop