Advancing Open Science
for more than 25 years
Supporting academic communities
since 1996
 
16 pages, 953 KiB  
Article
Techno-Economic Analysis of Grid-Connected Hydrogen Production via Water Electrolysis
by Pengcheng Zhu, Masahiro Mae and Ryuji Matsuhashi
Energies 2024, 17(7), 1653; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17071653 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
As the global energy landscape transitions towards a more sustainable future, hydrogen has emerged as a promising energy carrier due to its potential to decarbonize various sectors. However, the economic competitiveness of hydrogen production by water electrolysis strongly depends on renewable energy source [...] Read more.
As the global energy landscape transitions towards a more sustainable future, hydrogen has emerged as a promising energy carrier due to its potential to decarbonize various sectors. However, the economic competitiveness of hydrogen production by water electrolysis strongly depends on renewable energy source (RES) availability. Thus, it is necessary to overcome the challenges related to the intermittent nature of RESs. This paper presents a comprehensive techno-economic analysis of complementing green hydrogen production with grid electricity. An evaluation model for the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) is proposed, considering both CO2 emissions and the influence of RES fluctuations on electrolyzers. A minimum load restriction is required to avoid crossover gas. Moreover, a new operation strategy is developed for hydrogen production plants to determine optimal bidding in the grid electricity market to minimize the LCOH. We evaluate the feasibility of the proposed approach with a case study based on data from the Kyushu area in Japan. The results show that the proposed method can reduce the LCOH by 11% to 33%, and increase hydrogen productivity by 86% to 140%, without significantly increasing CO2 emission levels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A5: Hydrogen Energy)
15 pages, 9161 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Tool Performance in High-Speed End Milling of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy: The Role of AlCrN PVD Coatings and Resistance to Chipping Wear
by Qianxi He, Victor Saciotto, Jose M. DePaiva, Monica C. Guimaraes, Joern Kohlscheen, Marcelo M. Martins and Stephen C. Veldhuis
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2024, 8(2), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp8020068 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The conventional cutting tools used for machining titanium alloys normally experience rapid tool wear, and it is generally difficult to achieve a cutting speed over 60 m/min. In this paper, a comprehensive study on improving the machining of Ti-6Al-4V alloy is presented, focusing [...] Read more.
The conventional cutting tools used for machining titanium alloys normally experience rapid tool wear, and it is generally difficult to achieve a cutting speed over 60 m/min. In this paper, a comprehensive study on improving the machining of Ti-6Al-4V alloy is presented, focusing on high-speed end milling at 100 m/min. Three different AlCrN PVD-coated cemented carbide tools were employed over cemented solid carbide endmills. The study aimed to understand the factors influencing tool performance and, particularly, the uncommon tool wear behavior characterized by chipping on the rake face. The research methodology involves a detailed investigation of coating properties, mechanical characteristics, surface defects, and tool edge geometries. Mechanical properties were measured to assess the resistance to plastic deformation and impact fatigue fracture resistance. Surface defects were meticulously observed, and tool edge geometries were evaluated through optical microscopies. These analyses uncover the key factors contributing to the best tool performance, notably the resistance to plastic deformation (H3/E2 ratio), impact fatigue fracture resistance, and maintaining uniform tool edge geometries. The results of this study reveal that the moderate stress C3 coating outperformed the other two coatings, exhibiting a 1.5-times-longer tool life, a relatively stable cutting force curve, and favorable friction conditions in the cutting zone. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
22 pages, 3124 KiB  
Article
The Retrieval of Ground NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) Data Consistent with Remote-Sensing Observations
by Qi Zhao and Yonghua Qu
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(7), 1212; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16071212 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) is widely used for monitoring vegetation status, as accurate and reliable NDVI time series are crucial for understanding the relationship between environmental conditions, vegetation health, and productivity. Ground digital cameras have been recognized as important potential data [...] Read more.
The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) is widely used for monitoring vegetation status, as accurate and reliable NDVI time series are crucial for understanding the relationship between environmental conditions, vegetation health, and productivity. Ground digital cameras have been recognized as important potential data sources for validating remote-sensing NDVI products. However, differences in the spectral characteristics and imaging methods between sensors onboard satellites and ground digital cameras hinder direct consistency analyses, thereby limiting the quantitative application of camera-based observations. To address this limitation and meet the needs of vegetation monitoring research and remote-sensing NDVI validation, this study implements a novel NDVI camera. The proposed camera incorporates narrowband dual-pass filters designed to precisely separate red and near-infrared (NIR) spectral bands, which are aligned with the configuration of sensors onboard satellites. Through software-controlled imaging parameters, the camera captures the real radiance of vegetation reflection, ensuring the acquisition of accurate NDVI values while preserving the evolving trends of the vegetation status. The performance of this NDVI camera was evaluated using a hyperspectral spectrometer in the Hulunbuir Grassland over a period of 93 days. The results demonstrate distinct seasonal characteristics in the camera-derived NDVI time series using the Green Chromatic Coordinate (GCC) index. Moreover, in comparison to the GCC index, the camera’s NDVI values exhibit greater consistency with those obtained from the hyperspectral spectrometer, with a mean deviation of 0.04, and a relative root mean square error of 9.68%. This indicates that the narrowband NDVI, compared to traditional color indices like the GCC index, has a stronger ability to accurately capture vegetation changes. Cross-validation using the NDVI results from the camera and the PlanetScope satellite further confirms the potential of the camera-derived NDVI data for consistency analyses with remote sensing-based NDVI products, thus highlighting the potential of camera observations for quantitative applications The research findings emphasize that the novel NDVI camera, based on a narrowband spectral design, not only enables the acquisition of real vegetation index (VI) values but also facilitates the direct validation of vegetation remote-sensing NDVI products. Full article
23 pages, 523 KiB  
Systematic Review
Cyberbullying and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) in Adolescence: Exploring Moderators and Mediators through a Systematic Review
by Elena Predescu, Iulia Calugar and Roxana Sipos
Children 2024, 11(4), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11040410 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Objective: This systematic review explores the intricate relationship between cyberbullying and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents, acknowledging the dynamic nature of these phenomena in the evolving landscape of technology and social norms. (2) Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE were searched, [...] Read more.
(1) Objective: This systematic review explores the intricate relationship between cyberbullying and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents, acknowledging the dynamic nature of these phenomena in the evolving landscape of technology and social norms. (2) Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE were searched, and 14 studies were selected based on the eligibility criteria, focusing on participants aged 10 to 19, cyberbullying roles, and NSSI as the predictor and outcome variables, respectively. (3) Results: Internalizing symptoms, specifically depression and anxiety, emerged as the most prominent mediators. However, factors such as externalizing symptoms, stress, and negative emotional responses (emotion reactivity, negative emotions) were also identified to play a significant role in the relationship between cyberbullying and NSSI. On the other hand, protective factors against the negative impact of cyberbullying on NSSI risk, such as strong peer connections and school engagement, were identified. (4) Discussions: This review underscores the multidimensional nature of the cyberbullying–NSSI association, emphasizing the roles of potential risk factors such as internalizing and externalizing symptoms, stress, and negative emotional response. Internalizing symptoms played a central role as pathways between cyberbullying victimization and NSSI. Additionally, social factors, including peer connections and school engagement, were found to act as protective elements. (4) Conclusion: Continuous investigation is crucial in order to adapt interventions to the evolving technological and social landscape. The study advocates for targeted interventions that prioritize positive social connections to mitigate the impact of cyberbullying on adolescent well-being. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)
17 pages, 4844 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Magnetohydrodynamic Free Convection in Micropolar Fluids over a Permeable Shrinking Sheet with Slip Boundary Conditions
by Param R. Tangsali, Nagaraj N. Katagi, Ashwini Bhat and Manjunath Shettar
Symmetry 2024, 16(4), 400; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16040400 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The convective micropolar fluid flow over a permeable shrinking sheet in the presence of a heat source and thermal radiation with the magnetic field directed towards the sheet has been studied in this paper. The mathematical formulation considers the partial slip condition at [...] Read more.
The convective micropolar fluid flow over a permeable shrinking sheet in the presence of a heat source and thermal radiation with the magnetic field directed towards the sheet has been studied in this paper. The mathematical formulation considers the partial slip condition at the sheet, allowing a realistic representation of the fluid flow near the boundary. The governing equations for the flow, heat, and mass transfer are formulated using the conservation laws of mass, momentum, angular momentum, energy, and concentration. The resulting nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations using suitable similarity transformations. The numerical solutions are obtained using robust computational techniques to examine the influence of various parameters on the velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles. The impact of slip effects, micropolar fluid characteristics, and permeability parameters on the flow features and heat transfer rates are thoroughly analyzed. The findings of this investigation offer valuable insights into the behavior of micropolar fluids in free convection flows over permeable shrinking sheets with slip, providing a foundation for potential applications in various industrial and engineering processes. Key findings include the observation that the velocity profile overshoots for assisting flow with decreasing viscous force and rising magnetic effects as opposed to opposing flow. The thermal boundary layer thickness decreases due to buoyant force but shows increasing behavior with heat source parameters. The present result agrees with the earlier findings for specific parameter values in particular cases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mathematics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
29 pages, 35887 KiB  
Article
Advancing Sustainable Building Practices: Intelligent Methods for Enhancing Heating and Cooling Energy Efficiency
by Abdelali Agouzoul, Emmanuel Simeu and Mohamed Tabaa
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2879; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072879 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Our work is dedicated to enhancing sustainability through improved energy efficiency in buildings, with a specific focus on heating and cooling control and the optimization of thermal comfort of occupants. With an energy consumption of more than 60% in buildings, HVAC systems are [...] Read more.
Our work is dedicated to enhancing sustainability through improved energy efficiency in buildings, with a specific focus on heating and cooling control and the optimization of thermal comfort of occupants. With an energy consumption of more than 60% in buildings, HVAC systems are the biggest energy users. By integrating advanced technology, data algorithms, and digital twins, our study aims to optimize energy performance effectively. We have developed a Neural Network-based Model Predictive Control (NNMPC) to achieve this goal. Leveraging technologies such as MQTT communication, Wi-Fi modules, and field-programmable gate arrays will enhance scalability and flexibility. Our findings demonstrate the efficacy of the NNMPC system deployed on the PYNQ board for reducing sensible thermal energy usage for both cooling and heating purposes. Compared to traditional On/Off control systems, the NNMPC achieved an impressive 40.8% reduction in heating energy consumption and a 37.8% decrease in cooling energy consumption in 2006. In comparison to the On/Off technique, the NNMPC demonstrated a 25.6% reduction in annual heating energy consumption and a 28.8% drop in annual cooling energy consumption in the simulated year of 2017. We observed that, across all strategies and platforms, there were no instances where the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) fell below 0.5. However, a significant proportion of PMV values (ranging from 65% to 83%) were observed between 0.5 and 0.5, signifying a high level of occupant comfort. Additionally, for PMV values between 0.5 and 1.0, percentages ranged from 16% to 33% for both years. Importantly, the NNMPC exhibited notable efficiency in maintaining occupants’ comfort within this range, requiring less energy while ensuring highly satisfactory environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)
22 pages, 4491 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Financial Viability and Sustainability of Circular Business Models in the Wine Industry: A Comparative Analysis to Traditional Linear Business Model—Case of Georgia
by Vakhtang Chkareuli, Gvantsa Darguashvili, Dzintra Atstaja and Rozita Susniene
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2877; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072877 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In the contemporary global context, waste management and the judicious utilization of resources have emerged as pressing concerns. Consequently, the concept of a circular business model has gained prominence as a viable solution. This innovative model reframes waste not as a disposable byproduct [...] Read more.
In the contemporary global context, waste management and the judicious utilization of resources have emerged as pressing concerns. Consequently, the concept of a circular business model has gained prominence as a viable solution. This innovative model reframes waste not as a disposable byproduct but as an opportunity to generate new value, setting it apart from the conventional linear business model, particularly in financial, economic, and operational dimensions. Numerous industries grapple with the issue of excessive waste generation, among them the wine industry, notable for its substantial water and grape waste outputs. This predicament holds significant ramifications both on a global scale and within the specific context of Georgia. Yet, it also presents an innovative avenue for waste recycling. This study draws upon a comprehensive review of internationally recognized literature, noted for their scholarly significance and citation prevalence. In its practical segment, two distinct investment projects have been meticulously developed which seek to evaluate the financial viability of the circular business model in contrast to the conventional linear business model. The investment projects considered are as follows: 1. Under the framework of a linear business model, the company exclusively engages in the production and sale of wine. 2. Within the circular business model paradigm, the company not only produces wine but also harnesses waste processing to yield grape seed oil, which is subsequently marketed alongside wine bottles. Both models undergo rigorous scrutiny, employing a comprehensive analysis of key financial indicators essential for assessing project profitability and efficiency. The outcomes of this investigation reveal that, under identical capital investment conditions, the circular business model surpasses the linear model in terms of profitability. This underscores the potential for sustainable practices within the wine industry and the broader business landscape. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
15 pages, 1789 KiB  
Article
Experimental Study on Dynamic Characteristics of Damaged Post-Tensioning Concrete Sleepers Using Impact Hammer
by Jung-Youl Choi, Tae-Hyung Shin, Sun-Hee Kim and Jee-Seung Chung
Materials 2024, 17(7), 1581; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071581 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Concrete sleepers in operation are commonly damaged by various internal and external factors, such as poor materials, manufacturing defects, poor construction, environmental factors, and repeated loads and driving characteristics of trains; these factors affect the vibration response, mode shape, and natural frequency of [...] Read more.
Concrete sleepers in operation are commonly damaged by various internal and external factors, such as poor materials, manufacturing defects, poor construction, environmental factors, and repeated loads and driving characteristics of trains; these factors affect the vibration response, mode shape, and natural frequency of damaged concrete sleepers. However, current standards in South Korea require only a subjective visual inspection of concrete sleepers to determine the damage degree and necessity of repair or replacement. In this study, an impact hammer test was performed on concrete sleepers installed on the operating lines of urban railroads to assess the field applicability of the modal test method, with the results indicating that the natural frequency due to concrete sleeper damage was lower than that of the undamaged state. Furthermore, the discrepancy between the simulated and measured natural frequencies of the undamaged concrete sleeper was approximately 1.87%, validating the numerical analysis result. The natural frequency of the damaged concrete sleepers was lower than that of the undamaged concrete sleeper, and cracks in both the concrete sleeper core and the rail seat had the lowest natural frequency among all the damage categories. Therefore, the damage degrees of concrete sleepers can be quantitatively estimated using measured natural-frequency values. Full article
21 pages, 1910 KiB  
Review
Role of Plant-Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria in Plant Machinery for Soil Heavy Metal Detoxification
by Haichen Qin, Zixiao Wang, Wenya Sha, Shuhong Song, Fenju Qin and Wenchao Zhang
Microorganisms 2024, 12(4), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12040700 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Heavy metals migrate easily and are difficult to degrade in the soil environment, which causes serious harm to the ecological environment and human health. Thus, soil heavy metal pollution has become one of the main environmental issues of global concern. Plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) [...] Read more.
Heavy metals migrate easily and are difficult to degrade in the soil environment, which causes serious harm to the ecological environment and human health. Thus, soil heavy metal pollution has become one of the main environmental issues of global concern. Plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is a kind of microorganism that grows around the rhizosphere and can promote plant growth and increase crop yield. PGPR can change the bioavailability of heavy metals in the rhizosphere microenvironment, increase heavy metal uptake by phytoremediation plants, and enhance the phytoremediation efficiency of heavy-metal-contaminated soils. In recent years, the number of studies on the phytoremediation efficiency of heavy-metal-contaminated soil enhanced by PGPR has increased rapidly. This paper systematically reviews the mechanisms of PGPR that promote plant growth (including nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, potassium solubilization, iron solubilization, and plant hormone secretion) and the mechanisms of PGPR that enhance plant–heavy metal interactions (including chelation, the induction of systemic resistance, and the improvement of bioavailability). Future research on PGPR should address the challenges in heavy metal removal by PGPR-assisted phytoremediation. Full article
10 pages, 323 KiB  
Article
Tiling Rectangles and the Plane Using Squares of Integral Sides
by Bahram Sadeghi Bigham, Mansoor Davoodi Monfared, Samaneh Mazaheri and Jalal Kheyrabadi
Mathematics 2024, 12(7), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12071027 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
We study the problem of perfect tiling in the plane and explore the possibility of tiling a rectangle using integral distinct squares. Assume a set of distinguishable squares (or equivalently a set of distinct natural numbers) is given, and one has to decide [...] Read more.
We study the problem of perfect tiling in the plane and explore the possibility of tiling a rectangle using integral distinct squares. Assume a set of distinguishable squares (or equivalently a set of distinct natural numbers) is given, and one has to decide whether it can tile the plane or a rectangle or not. Previously, it has been proved that tiling the plane is not feasible using a set of odd numbers or an infinite sequence of natural numbers including exactly two odd numbers. The problem is open for different situations in which the number of odd numbers is arbitrary. In addition to providing a solution to this special case, we discuss some open problems to tile the plane and rectangles in this paper. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mathematics and Computer Science)
23 pages, 531 KiB  
Review
Whole-Body Cryostimulation in Multiple Sclerosis: A Scoping Review
by Angelo Alito, Jacopo Maria Fontana, Eleonora Franzini Tibaldeo, Federica Verme, Paolo Piterà, Elzbieta Miller, Riccardo Cremascoli, Andrea Brioschi and Paolo Capodaglio
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 2003; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13072003 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common cause of non-traumatic long-term disability in young adults. Whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) is a cold-based physical therapy known to induce physiological exercise-mimicking changes in the cardiovascular, neuromuscular, immune, and endocrine systems and to influence functional and psychological [...] Read more.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common cause of non-traumatic long-term disability in young adults. Whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) is a cold-based physical therapy known to induce physiological exercise-mimicking changes in the cardiovascular, neuromuscular, immune, and endocrine systems and to influence functional and psychological parameters by exposing the human body to cryogenic temperatures (≤−110 °C) for 2–3 min. The purpose of this scoping review is to present an overall view on the potential role of WBC as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment of MS. PubMed, ScienceDirect, Embase, and Web of Science were searched up to 30 November 2023, and a total of 13 articles were included. WBC may have beneficial antioxidant effects as a short-term adjuvant treatment in MS. There were no significant changes in antioxidant enzymes, nitric oxide levels, metalloproteinase levels, blood counts, rheology, and biochemistry. WBC can lead to a reduction in fatigue and an improvement in functional status, with a significant effect on both mental and physical well-being. There were no reported adverse effects. The results suggest that WBC may complement therapeutic options for patients with MS, as the effects of cryogenic cold stimulation have been shown to activate antioxidant processes and improve functional status, mood, anxiety, and fatigue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rehabilitation and Management of Multiple Sclerosis)
37 pages, 1011 KiB  
Review
Analgesic Peptides: From Natural Diversity to Rational Design
by Katarzyna Gach-Janczak, Monika Biernat, Mariola Kuczer, Anna Adamska-Bart?omiejczyk and Alicja Kluczyk
Molecules 2024, 29(7), 1544; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29071544 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Pain affects one-third of the global population and is a significant public health issue. The use of opioid drugs, which are the strongest painkillers, is associated with several side effects, such as tolerance, addiction, overdose, and even death. An increasing demand for novel, [...] Read more.
Pain affects one-third of the global population and is a significant public health issue. The use of opioid drugs, which are the strongest painkillers, is associated with several side effects, such as tolerance, addiction, overdose, and even death. An increasing demand for novel, safer analgesic agents is a driving force for exploring natural sources of bioactive peptides with antinociceptive activity. Since the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a crucial role in pain modulation, the discovery of new peptide ligands for GPCRs is a significant challenge for novel drug development. The aim of this review is to present peptides of human and animal origin with antinociceptive potential and to show the possibilities of their modification, as well as the design of novel structures. The study presents the current knowledge on structure-activity relationship in the design of peptide-based biomimetic compounds, the modification strategies directed at increasing the antinociceptive activity, and improvement of metabolic stability and pharmacodynamic profile. The procedures employed in prolonged drug delivery of emerging compounds are also discussed. The work summarizes the conditions leading to the development of potential morphine replacements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Antinociceptive Agents against Persistent Pain)
14 pages, 2308 KiB  
Article
Detection of Hardening in Mangosteens Using Near-Infrared Hyperspectral Imaging
by Saranya Workhwa, Thitirat Khanthong, Napatsorn Manmak, Anthony Keith Thompson and Sontisuk Teerachaichayut
Horticulturae 2024, 10(4), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040345 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Mangosteens can develop a postharvest physiological disorder, called “hardening”, which affects their marketability and is not detectable using visual inspection. The hardening disorder of mangosteens was determined by firmness value using the texture analyzer. Near-infrared hyperspectral imaging (NIR-HSI) in the region of 935–1720 [...] Read more.
Mangosteens can develop a postharvest physiological disorder, called “hardening”, which affects their marketability and is not detectable using visual inspection. The hardening disorder of mangosteens was determined by firmness value using the texture analyzer. Near-infrared hyperspectral imaging (NIR-HSI) in the region of 935–1720 nm was tested as a possible rapid and non-destructive method to detect this disorder. The spectra from a region of interest of mangosteens were acquired and used for analysis. Calibration models for firmness of a similarly sized group and a mixed-size group were established using partial least squares regression (PLSR) and support vector machine regression (SVMR). Chemometric algorithms were investigated in order to determine the optimal conditions for establishing the models for firmness. The optimum model was obtained when the fruit were graded into similarly sized groups. Using partial least squares regression (PLSR), the correlation coefficient of prediction (Rp) was 0.87 and the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) was 6.25 N. The predictive images for firmness of the fruit were created by interpreting predicted firmness visualized as colors in every pixel. From the data, it was concluded that NIR-HSI can potentially be used to visualize hardening of individual mangosteens based on their predictive images. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Postharvest Biology, Quality, Safety, and Technology)
21 pages, 2874 KiB  
Article
Comparative Assessment of Lignan Profiling and Biological Activities of Schisandra henryi Leaf and In Vitro PlantForm Bioreactor-Grown Culture Extracts
by Karolina Jafernik, Pawe? Kubica, Micha? Dziurka, ?ukasz Kulinowski, Izabela Korona-G?owniak, Hosam O. Elansary, Piotr Waligórski, Krystyna Skalicka-Wo?niak and Agnieszka Szopa
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040442 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This research’s scope encompassed biotechnological, phytochemical, and biological studies of Schisandra henryi, including investigations into its in vitro microshoot culture grown in PlantForm bioreactors (temporary immersion systems, TISs), as well as extracts from leaves of the parent plant, focusing on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, [...] Read more.
This research’s scope encompassed biotechnological, phytochemical, and biological studies of Schisandra henryi, including investigations into its in vitro microshoot culture grown in PlantForm bioreactors (temporary immersion systems, TISs), as well as extracts from leaves of the parent plant, focusing on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities. The phytochemical analysis included the isolation and quantification of 17 compounds from dibenzocyclooctadiene, aryltetralin lignans, and neolignans using centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC), HPLC-DAD, and UHPLC-MS/MS tandem mass spectrometry with triple quadrupole mass filter methods. Higher contents of compounds were found in microshoots extracts (max. 543.99 mg/100 g DW). The major compound was schisantherin B both in the extracts from microshoots and the leaves (390.16 and 361.24 mg/100 g DW, respectively). The results of the anti-inflammatory activity in terms of the inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, sPLA2, and LOX-15 enzymes indicated that PlantForm microshoot extracts showed strong activity against COX-1 and COX-2 (for 177 mg/mL the inhibition percentage was 76% and 66%, respectively). The antioxidant potential assessed using FRAP, CUPRAC, and DPPH assays showed that extracts from microshoot cultures had 5.6, 3.8, and 3.3 times higher power compared to extracts from the leaves of the parent plant, respectively. The total polyphenol content (TPC) was 4.1 times higher in extracts from the in vitro culture compared to the leaves. The antiproliferative activity against T-cell lymphoblast line Jurkat, breast adenocarcinoma cultures (MCF-7), colon adenocarcinoma (HT-29), and cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa), showed that both extracts have considerable effects on the tested cell lines. The antimicrobial activity tested against strains of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi showed the highest activity towards H. pylori (MIC and MBC 0.625 mg/mL). Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
11 pages, 1942 KiB  
Article
Indoor Radon Surveying and Mitigation in the Case-Study of Celleno Town (Central Italy) Located in a Medium Geogenic Radon Potential Area
by Manuela Portaro, Ilaria Rocchetti, Paola Tuccimei, Gianfranco Galli, Michele Soligo, Giancarlo Ciotoli, Cristina Longoni, Dino Vasquez and Federica Sola
Atmosphere 2024, 15(4), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15040425 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Indoor radon surveying and remediation were implemented in a single-family home affected by high levels of indoor radon in the Celleno municipality (central Italy) with the aim of identifying the contribution of radon sources, evaluating the factors affecting radon entry into the building, [...] Read more.
Indoor radon surveying and remediation were implemented in a single-family home affected by high levels of indoor radon in the Celleno municipality (central Italy) with the aim of identifying the contribution of radon sources, evaluating the factors affecting radon entry into the building, and reducing radon risk. Average radon levels were relatively low at the ground floor (286 ± 202 Bq m−3) and first floor (167 ± 84 Bq m−3) in autumn when the temperature was still warm and the windows were open, but increased up to 2776 ± 1768 Bq m−3 and 970 ± 202 Bq m−3 in the first half of December, when the heating system was on and the windows were closed. The inner walls of the pilot room at the ground floor, semi buried on one side, were then treated with a waterproof product (a silane terminated polymer) and the average radon was halved (1475 ± 1092 Bq m−3) in the following month, which was still characterised by winter conditions. Radon entry in the room was identified and sealed with the same product, and a radon accumulation space behind a NE-SW oriented wall was naturally ventilated, reducing radon below the reference level in April with northerly winds conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indoor Air Pollution Exposure and Health Risk Assessment)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
13 pages, 1058 KiB  
Article
Uptake of Thallium(I) by Rice Seedlings Grown in Different Soils: Key Soil Properties Determining Soil Thallium Availability
by Liang-Sin Huang, Puu-Tai Yang, Yu-An Lu, Wei-Lin Liu, Tsung-Ju Chuang and Shan-Li Wang
Agronomy 2024, 14(4), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040718 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the uptake of thallium (Tl) by rice seedlings grown in different soils with varying physiochemical properties and Tl levels to elucidate the key factors governing soil Tl availability and accumulation in rice plants. The bioconcentration factors of Tl in rice [...] Read more.
This study investigated the uptake of thallium (Tl) by rice seedlings grown in different soils with varying physiochemical properties and Tl levels to elucidate the key factors governing soil Tl availability and accumulation in rice plants. The bioconcentration factors of Tl in rice roots (2.5–25.6) and shoots (1.5–14.7) indicated high soil Tl availability and efficient uptake and translocation of Tl in rice plants, with significant variations across soil types. Growth suppression and visual toxic symptoms, such as stem buckling, yellowish leaf tips, and withering leaf edges, occurred at low soil Tl levels due to high Tl toxicity. The accumulation of Tl by rice plants was influenced by both soil and plant-related factors. Cation exchange reactions primarily influenced the concentration of Tl in soil solution, with potassium ions (K+) acting as competitors for cation exchange sites with Tl+ ions and effective inhibitors of Tl uptake by rice plants. Increasing soil K content may mitigate soil Tl availability in contaminated soils by reducing soil Tl(I) adsorption and plant uptake. This study elucidates the key mechanisms governing soil Tl bioavailability and highlights potential management strategies to reduce Tl accumulation in crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Pollution and Remediation in Sustainable Agriculture)
15 pages, 3155 KiB  
Article
A Metabolomics Study of the Effects of Eleutheroside B on Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in a Zebrafish Diabetes Model
by Xuelian Dong, Qiang Chen, Wenyan Chi, Zhidong Qiu and Ye Qiu
Molecules 2024, 29(7), 1545; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29071545 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Diabetes is a common metabolic disease that seriously endangers human health. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of the active ingredient Eleutheroside B (EB) from the traditional Chinese medicine Eleutheroside on diabetes mellitus in a zebrafish model. Concomitant [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Diabetes is a common metabolic disease that seriously endangers human health. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of the active ingredient Eleutheroside B (EB) from the traditional Chinese medicine Eleutheroside on diabetes mellitus in a zebrafish model. Concomitant hepatic injury was also analysed, along with the study of possible molecular mechanisms using metabolomics technology. This work should provide some theoretical references for future experimental studies. (2) Methods: A zebrafish diabetes model was constructed by soaking in a 1.75% glucose solution and feeding a high-fat diet. The intervention drug groups were metformin (100 μg∙mL−1) and EB (50, 100, and 150 μg∙mL−1) via water-soluble exposure for 30 days. Glucose, TG, TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C were evaluated in different treatment groups. GLUT4 protein expression was also evaluated in each group, and liver injury was observed by HE staining. Metabolomics techniques were used to investigate the mechanism by which EB regulates endogenous markers and metabolic pathways during the development of diabetes. (3) Results: All EB treatment groups in diabetic zebrafish showed significantly reduced body mass index (BMI) and improved blood glucose and lipid profiles. EB was found to upregulate GLUT4 protein expression and ameliorate the liver injury caused by diabetes. Metabolomics studies showed that EB causes changes in the metabolic profile of diabetic zebrafish. These were related to the regulation of purine metabolism, cytochrome P450, caffeine metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, the mTOR signalling pathway, insulin resistance, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. (4) Conclusions: EB has a hypoglycaemic effect in diabetic zebrafish as well as significantly improving disorders of glycolipid metabolism. The mechanism of action of EB may involve regulation of the mTOR signalling pathway, purine metabolism, caffeine metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
14 pages, 6213 KiB  
Article
Comparative Metabolomic Profiling of L-Histidine and NEFA Treatments in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
by Wenqiang Sun, Mengze Li, Hanjun Ren, Yang Chen, Wei Zeng, Xiong Tan, Xianbo Jia, Shiyi Chen, Jie Wang and Songjia Lai
Animals 2024, 14(7), 1045; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071045 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) are pivotal in energy metabolism, yet high concentrations can lead to ketosis, a common metabolic disorder in cattle. Our laboratory observed lower levels of L-histidine in cattle suffering from ketosis, indicating a potential interaction between L-histidine and NEFA metabolism. [...] Read more.
Non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) are pivotal in energy metabolism, yet high concentrations can lead to ketosis, a common metabolic disorder in cattle. Our laboratory observed lower levels of L-histidine in cattle suffering from ketosis, indicating a potential interaction between L-histidine and NEFA metabolism. This relationship prompted us to investigate the metabolomic alterations in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) induced by elevated NEFA levels and to explore L-histidine’s potential mitigating effects. Our untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed 893 and 160 metabolite changes in positive and negative models, respectively, with VIP scores greater than 1 and p-values below 0.05. Notable metabolites like 9,10-epoxy-12-octadecenoic acid were upregulated, while 9-Ethylguanine was downregulated. A pathway analysis suggested disruptions in fatty acid and steroid biosynthesis pathways. Furthermore, L-histidine treatment altered 61 metabolites in the positive model and 34 in the negative model, with implications for similar pathways affected by NEFA. Overlaying differential metabolites from both conditions uncovered a potential key mediator, 1-Linoleoylglycerophosphocholine, which was regulated in opposite directions by NEFA and L-histidine. Our study uncovered that both NEFA L- and histidine metabolomics analyses pinpoint similar lipid biosynthesis pathways, with 1-Linoleoylglycerophosphocholine emerging as a potential key metabolite mediating their interaction, a discovery that may offer insights for therapeutic strategies in metabolic diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
21 pages, 2756 KiB  
Article
Advancing Sustainable COVID-19 Diagnosis: Integrating Artificial Intelligence with Bioinformatics in Chest X-ray Analysis
by Hassen Louati, Ali Louati, Rahma Lahyani, Elham Kariri and Abdullah Albanyan
Information 2024, 15(4), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15040189 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Responding to the critical health crisis triggered by respiratory illnesses, notably COVID-19, this study introduces an innovative and resource-conscious methodology for analyzing chest X-ray images. We unveil a cutting-edge technique that marries neural architecture search (NAS) with genetic algorithms (GA), aiming to refine [...] Read more.
Responding to the critical health crisis triggered by respiratory illnesses, notably COVID-19, this study introduces an innovative and resource-conscious methodology for analyzing chest X-ray images. We unveil a cutting-edge technique that marries neural architecture search (NAS) with genetic algorithms (GA), aiming to refine the architecture of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in a way that diminishes the usual demand for computational power. Leveraging transfer learning (TL), our approach efficiently navigates the hurdles posed by scarce data, optimizing both time and hardware utilization—a cornerstone for sustainable AI initiatives. The investigation leverages a curated dataset of 1184 COVID-positive and 1319 COVID-negative chest X-ray images, serving as the basis for model training, evaluation, and validation. Our methodology not only boosts the precision in diagnosing COVID-19 but also establishes a pioneering standard in the realm of eco-friendly and effective healthcare technologies. Through comprehensive comparative analyses against leading-edge models, our optimized solutions exhibit significant performance enhancements alongside a minimized ecological impact. This contribution marks a significant stride towards eco-sustainable medical imaging, presenting a paradigm that prioritizes environmental stewardship while adeptly addressing modern healthcare exigencies. We compare our approach to state-of-the-art architectures through multiple comparative studies. Full article
11 pages, 342 KiB  
Article
Epidemiological Characterization of Respiratory Pathogens Using the Multiplex PCR FilmArray™ Respiratory Panel
by Young Jun Hong, Bo Kyeung Jung and Jae Kyung Kim
Diagnostics 2024, 14(7), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14070734 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Various pathogens can cause upper respiratory tract infections, presenting challenges in accurate diagnosis due to similar symptomatology. Therefore, rapid and precise diagnostic tests are crucial for effective treatment planning. Traditional culture-based methods for diagnosis are limited by their reliance on skilled personnel and [...] Read more.
Various pathogens can cause upper respiratory tract infections, presenting challenges in accurate diagnosis due to similar symptomatology. Therefore, rapid and precise diagnostic tests are crucial for effective treatment planning. Traditional culture-based methods for diagnosis are limited by their reliance on skilled personnel and lengthy processing times. In contrast, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques offer enhanced accuracy and speed in identifying respiratory pathogens. In this study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of the FilmArray™ Respiratory Panel (RP), a multiplex PCR test capable of simultaneously screening 20 pathogens. This retrospective analysis was conducted at Dankook University Hospital, South Korea, between January 2018 and December 2022. Samples from patients with upper respiratory tract infections were analyzed. Results revealed adenovirus as the most prevalent pathogen (18.9%), followed by influenza virus A (16.5%), among others. Notably, a 22.5% co-infection rate was observed. The FilmArray™ RP method successfully identified 20 pathogens within 2 h, facilitating prompt treatment decisions and mitigating unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions. This study underscores the utility of multiplex PCR in respiratory pathogen identification, offering valuable insights for epidemiological surveillance and diagnosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease)
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)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">
14 pages, 524 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Genomic Prediction Accuracy for Body Conformation Traits in Korean Holstein Cattle
by Jungjae Lee, Hyosik Mun, Yangmo Koo, Sangchul Park, Junsoo Kim, Seongpil Yu, Jiseob Shin, Jaegu Lee, Jihyun Son, Chanhyuk Park, Seokhyun Lee, Hyungjun Song, Sungjin Kim, Changgwon Dang and Jun Park
Animals 2024, 14(7), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071052 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
The Holstein breed is the mainstay of dairy production in Korea. In this study, we evaluated the genomic prediction accuracy for body conformation traits in Korean Holstein cattle, using a range of π levels (0.75, 0.90, 0.99, and 0.995) in Bayesian methods (BayesB [...] Read more.
The Holstein breed is the mainstay of dairy production in Korea. In this study, we evaluated the genomic prediction accuracy for body conformation traits in Korean Holstein cattle, using a range of π levels (0.75, 0.90, 0.99, and 0.995) in Bayesian methods (BayesB and BayesC). Focusing on 24 traits, we analyzed the impact of different π levels on prediction accuracy. We observed a general increase in accuracy at higher levels for specific traits, with variations depending on the Bayesian method applied. Notably, the highest accuracy was achieved for rear teat angle when using deregressed estimated breeding values including parent average as a response variable. We further demonstrated that incorporating parent average into deregressed estimated breeding values enhances genomic prediction accuracy, showcasing the effectiveness of the model in integrating both offspring and parental genetic information. Additionally, we identified 18 significant window regions through genome-wide association studies, which are crucial for future fine mapping and discovery of causal mutations. These findings provide valuable insights into the efficiency of genomic selection for body conformation traits in Korean Holstein cattle and highlight the potential for advancements in the prediction accuracy using larger datasets and more sophisticated genomic models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
18 pages, 1776 KiB  
Article
Novel Synergistic Probiotic Intervention: Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analysis Reveals Ameliorative Effects on Immunity, Gut Barrier, and Metabolism of Mice during Salmonella typhimurium Infection
by Muhammad Junaid, Hongyu Lu, Yixiang Li, Yu Liu, Ahmad Ud Din, Zhongquan Qi, Yi Xiong and Jianhua Yan
Genes 2024, 15(4), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15040435 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium), a prevalent cause of foodborne infection, induces significant changes in the host transcriptome and metabolome. The lack of therapeutics with minimal or no side effects prompts the scientific community to explore alternative therapies. This study investigates the therapeutic [...] Read more.
Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium), a prevalent cause of foodborne infection, induces significant changes in the host transcriptome and metabolome. The lack of therapeutics with minimal or no side effects prompts the scientific community to explore alternative therapies. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of a probiotic mixture comprising Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus 1.3251) and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum 9513) against S. typhimurium, utilizing transcriptome and metabolomic analyses, a novel approach that has not been previously documented. Twenty-four SPF-BALB/c mice were divided into four groups: control negative group (CNG); positive control group (CPG); probiotic-supplemented non-challenged group (LAPG); and probiotic-supplemented Salmonella-challenged group (LAPST). An RNA-sequencing analysis of small intestinal (ileum) tissue revealed 2907 upregulated and 394 downregulated DEGs in the LAPST vs. CPG group. A functional analysis of DEGs highlighted their significantly altered gene ontology (GO) terms related to metabolism, gut integrity, cellular development, and immunity (p ≤ 0.05). The KEGG analysis showed that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the LAPST group were primarily involved in pathways related to gut integrity, immunity, and metabolism, such as MAPK, PI3K-Akt, AMPK, the tryptophan metabolism, the glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, ECM–receptor interaction, and others. Additionally, the fecal metabolic analysis identified 1215 upregulated and 305 downregulated metabolites in the LAPST vs. CPG group, implying their involvement in KEGG pathways including bile secretion, propanoate metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, and protein digestion and absorption, which are vital for maintaining barrier integrity, immunity, and metabolism. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the administration of a probiotic mixture improves immunity, maintains gut homeostasis and barrier integrity, and enhances metabolism in Salmonella infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Genetics and Genomics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">Full article ">

Open Access Journals

Browse by Indexing Browse by Subject Selected Journals
Back to TopTop
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news
news