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19 pages, 797 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Disruptive Factors in Product Portfolio Management: An Exploratory Study in B2B Manufacturing for Sustainable Transition

by Till Gramberg, Thomas Bauernhansl and Andreas Eggert

Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4402; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114402 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Business-to-business (B2B) manufacturing companies are increasingly confronted with transformative trends such as sustainability, digitalization, and servitization. These trends are changing how product portfolios are developed, and how value contributions are assessed, and therefore have disruptive potential. Dealing with these disruptive factors in Product [...] Read more.

Business-to-business (B2B) manufacturing companies are increasingly confronted with transformative trends such as sustainability, digitalization, and servitization. These trends are changing how product portfolios are developed, and how value contributions are assessed, and therefore have disruptive potential. Dealing with these disruptive factors in Product Portfolio Management (PPM) is a largely unexplored topic. This study presents an empirical-qualitative exploration that contributes significantly to the field. The aim is to clarify the extent to which disruptive factors influence the evaluation and shaping of the product portfolio in B2B manufacturing companies. The Gioia method was used to evaluate 21 semi-structured interviews with experts from leading B2B manufacturing companies. Eight overarching challenges in PPM resulting from disruptive factors were identified. Based on the eight overarching challenges and their associated causal relationships, two aggregated dimensions of action were derived: (1) increasing speed and flexibility by using generative artificial intelligence (AI) in a defined PPM process and (2) adjusting the product portfolio evaluation to consider various strategic drivers. These two dimensions of action call for future research to overcome the disruptive factors in PPM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Transformation, Servitization, and Ecosystem Innovation for Sustainable Transition)

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16 pages, 4251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Theoretical Prediction of Strengthening in Nanocrystalline Cu with Multi-Element Grain Boundary Segregation Decoration

by Fuli Guo, Chuanying Li, Tao Fu and Xianghe Peng

Materials 2024, 17(11), 2504; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112504 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

The composition of grain boundaries (GBs) determines their mechanical behavior, which in turn affects the mechanical properties of nanocrystalline materials. Inspired by GB segregation and the concept of high-entropy alloys (HEAs), we investigated, respectively, the mechanical responses of nanocrystalline Cu samples with and [...] Read more.

The composition of grain boundaries (GBs) determines their mechanical behavior, which in turn affects the mechanical properties of nanocrystalline materials. Inspired by GB segregation and the concept of high-entropy alloys (HEAs), we investigated, respectively, the mechanical responses of nanocrystalline Cu samples with and without multi-element GBs, as well as the grain size effects, aiming to explore the effects of GB composition decoration on mechanical properties. Our results show that introducing multi-element segregation GBs can significantly improve the mechanical properties of nanocrystalline Cu by effectively inhibiting GB migration and sliding. Additionally, we proposed an improved a theoretical model that can reasonably describe the strengths of the materials with multi-element or single-element segregation GBs. Notably, the introduction of multi-element segregation GBs inhibits both migration and sliding behavior, with migration being more effectively suppressed than sliding. These results present a novel approach for designing high-performance nanometallic materials and offer valuable insights into the role of GB composition decoration in enhancing mechanical properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in High Entropy Alloys and High Entropy Carbides: Microstructural and Mechanical Properties and Modeling)

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14 pages, 1138 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Effects of Fentanyl on Aortic Viscoelasticity in a Rat Model of Melatonin Deficiency

by Andreyan Georgiev, Maria Kaneva, Lyudmila Shikova, Polina Mateeva, Jana Tchekalarova and Mariya Antonova

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 5669; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25115669 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Melatonin influences arterial biomechanics, and its absence could cause remodeling of the arterial wall, leading to increased stiffness. Direct effects of fentanyl on the aortic wall have also been observed previously. This study aimed to evaluate in vitro the effects of fentanyl on [...] Read more.

Melatonin influences arterial biomechanics, and its absence could cause remodeling of the arterial wall, leading to increased stiffness. Direct effects of fentanyl on the aortic wall have also been observed previously. This study aimed to evaluate in vitro the effects of fentanyl on aortic viscoelasticity in a rat model of melatonin deficiency and to test the hypothesis that melatonin deficiency leads to increased arterial wall stiffness. The viscoelasticity was estimated in strip preparations from pinealectomized (pin, melatonin deficiency) and sham-operated (sham, normal melatonin) adult rats using the forced oscillations method. In the untreated aortic wall pin, the viscoelasticity was not significantly altered. However, combined with 10⁻⁹ M fentanyl, the pin increased the natural frequency (f₀) and modulus of elasticity (E’) compared to the sham-operated. Independently, fentanyl treatment decreased f₀ and E’ compared separately to untreated sham and pin preparations. The effects of fentanyl were neither dose-dependent nor affected by naloxone, suggesting a non-opioid mechanism. Furthermore, an independent effect of naloxone was also detected in the normal rat aortic wall, resulting in reduced E’. Additional studies are needed that may improve the clinical decisions for pain management and anesthesia for certain patients with co-occurring chronic low levels of blood plasma melatonin and some diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)

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13 pages, 1138 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Early Childhood Development in Marginalised Roma Communities: The Role of Parental Education and Household Equipment

by Jana Plavnicka, Shoshana Chovan and Daniela Filakovska Bobakova

Children 2024, 11(6), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060622 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the effect of socioeconomic disadvantage accumulated in marginalised Roma communities (MRCs) on early childhood development and to assess the role of selected socioeconomic indicators in the association between belonging to MRCs vs. the majority and early childhood development. [...] Read more.

This study aimed to explore the effect of socioeconomic disadvantage accumulated in marginalised Roma communities (MRCs) on early childhood development and to assess the role of selected socioeconomic indicators in the association between belonging to MRCs vs. the majority and early childhood development. We obtained cross-sectional data from 232 mother–child dyads from MRCs and the majority population. The differences in early childhood development and background variables between the two groups were tested using chi-square and Mann–Whitney U tests. The moderated mediation was tested using PROCESS Macro in SPSS Model 14 on 5000 bootstrap samples. Statistically significant differences between children from MRCs and the majority were found in terms of maternal age, parental education, household equipment, as well as early childhood development. Household equipment moderated the indirect effect of being from MRCs vs. the majority on early childhood development through parental education. The indirect effect through parental education was high at a low household equipment level, reduced at an average level and non-significant at a high level of household equipment. Our study uncovered disparities in early childhood development between children from MRCs and the majority population. Parental education significantly influenced developmental outcomes, while household equipment mitigated its impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Psychological and Social Health in Childhood: The Role of Health Determinants)

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13 pages, 2634 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Multiple Stressors, Pristine or Sulfidized Silver Nanomaterials, and a Pathogen on a Model Soil Nematode Caenorhabditis elegans

by Jarad P. Cochran, Phocheng Ngy, Jason M. Unrine, Christopher J. Matocha and Olga V. Tsyusko

Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110913 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Previous research using the model soil nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has revealed that silver nanoparticles (AgNP) and their transformed counterpart, sulfidized AgNP (sAgNP), reduce their reproduction and survival. To expand our understanding of the environmental consequences of released NP, we examined the synergistic/antagonistic effects [...] Read more.

Previous research using the model soil nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has revealed that silver nanoparticles (AgNP) and their transformed counterpart, sulfidized AgNP (sAgNP), reduce their reproduction and survival. To expand our understanding of the environmental consequences of released NP, we examined the synergistic/antagonistic effects of AgNP and sAgNP along with AgNO₃ (ionic control) on C. elegans infected with the pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae. Individual exposures to each stressor significantly decreased nematode reproduction compared to controls. Combined exposures to equitoxic EC₃₀ concentrations of two stressors, Ag in nanoparticulate (AgNP or sAgNP) or ionic form and the pathogen K. pneumoniae, showed a decline in the reproduction that was not significantly different compared to individual exposures of each of the stressors. The lack of enhanced toxicity after simultaneous combined exposure is partially due to Ag decreasing K. pneumoniae pathogenicity by inhibiting biofilm production outside the nematode and significantly reducing viable pathogens inside the host. Taken together, our results indicate that by hindering the ability of K. pneumoniae to colonize the nematode’s intestine, Ag reduces K. pneumoniae pathogenicity regardless of Ag form. These results differ from our previous research where simultaneous exposure to zinc oxide (ZnO) NP and K. pneumoniae led to a reproduction level that was not significantly different from the controls. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxicity Evaluation of Nanoparticles: 2nd Edition)

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12 pages, 1127 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Microfluidics for Point-of-Care Blood Sensing

by Amirmahdi Tavakolidakhrabadi, Matt Stark, Ulrike Bacher, Myriam Legros and Cedric Bessire

Biosensors 2024, 14(6), 266; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14060266 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Blood tests are widely used in modern medicine to diagnose certain illnesses and evaluate the overall health of a patient. To enable testing in resource-limited areas, there has been increasing interest in point-of-care (PoC) testing devices. To process blood samples, liquid mixing with [...] Read more.

Blood tests are widely used in modern medicine to diagnose certain illnesses and evaluate the overall health of a patient. To enable testing in resource-limited areas, there has been increasing interest in point-of-care (PoC) testing devices. To process blood samples, liquid mixing with active pumps is usually required, making PoC blood testing expensive and bulky. We explored the possibility of processing approximately 2 μL of whole blood for image flow cytometry using capillary structures that allowed test times of a few minutes without active pumps. Capillary pump structures with five different pillar shapes were simulated using Ansys Fluent to determine which resulted in the fastest whole blood uptake. The simulation results showed a strong influence of the capillary pump pillar shape on the chip filling time. Long and thin structures with a high aspect ratio exhibited faster filling times. Microfluidic chips using the simulated pump design with the most efficient blood uptake were fabricated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polyethylene oxide (PEO). The chip filling times were tested with 2 μL of both water and whole blood, resulting in uptake times of 24 s for water and 111 s for blood. The simulated blood plasma results deviated from the experimental filling times by about 35% without accounting for any cell-induced effects. By comparing the flow speed induced by different pump pillar geometries, this study offers insights for the design and optimization of passive microfluidic devices for inhomogenous liquids such as whole blood in sensing applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors and Healthcare)

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13 pages, 2302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation Analysis of a Methanol Fueled Marine Engine for the Ship Decarbonization Assessment

by Marco Altosole, Flavio Balsamo, Ugo Campora, Ernesto Fasano and Filippo Scamardella

Energies 2024, 17(11), 2498; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112498 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Methanol as marine fuel represents one of the most cost-effective and practical solutions towards low-carbon shipping. Methanol fueled internal combustion engines have a high level of technological readiness and are already available on the market; however, technical data in terms of fuel consumption [...] Read more.

Methanol as marine fuel represents one of the most cost-effective and practical solutions towards low-carbon shipping. Methanol fueled internal combustion engines have a high level of technological readiness and are already available on the market; however, technical data in terms of fuel consumption and emissions are not yet easily accessible. For this reason, the present study deals with the simulation of a virtual spark-ignition methanol engine, carried out in a Matlab-Simulink^© R2023a environment to assess the CO₂ emissions in several working conditions of a possible ship power system. The thermodynamic model of the methanol fueled engine is derived from a marine gas engine simulator, already validated by the authors in a previous work. This article presents the relevant modifications necessary to adapt the engine to the methanol fuel mode with regard to the different fuel characteristics. The simulation analysis compares the results of the virtual methanol engine with available data from a similar, existing gas engine, highlighting the differences in efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Perspectives of Internal Combustion Engines of High Efficiency: Analysis, Modeling and Control Strategies and Application of Sustainable Fuels)

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14 pages, 899 KiB

Open AccessReview

Genetics and Epigenetics in Acquired Hemophilia A: From Bench to Bedside

by Nikolaos Evangelidis, Nikolaos Kotsiou, Paschalis Evangelidis, Vlasios I. Alevizopoulos, Iasonas Dermitzakis, Sofia Chissan, Sofia Vakalopoulou and Eleni Gavriilaki

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(6), 5147-5160; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46060309 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a bleeding disorder characterized by the immunological inhibition of factor VIII (FVIII) of the hemostatic pathway leading to hemorrhagic events. Different domains of FVIII are the target of autoantibodies (mainly immunoglobulin (Ig) G) leading to the deficiency of [...] Read more.

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a bleeding disorder characterized by the immunological inhibition of factor VIII (FVIII) of the hemostatic pathway leading to hemorrhagic events. Different domains of FVIII are the target of autoantibodies (mainly immunoglobulin (Ig) G) leading to the deficiency of FVIII. Several factors have been associated with the activation of the auto-immunity towards FVIII. Emerging evidence implicates CD4+ T cell activation in mediating this autoimmune response, with their involvement like that observed in congenital hemophilia A. Several genes such as HLA II DRB*16, DQB1*0502, and CTLA-4 + 49 are responsible for the pathogenesis of AHA. Epigenetic modifications and mainly long-coding RNAS (lncRNAs) are potentially contributing to the pathogenesis of AHA. The treatment approach of AHA includes the management of acute bleeding events and the administration of immunosuppressive medications. This review aimed to summarize the published data on the genetics and epigenetics of AHA. The severity and the mortality of this disease are creating an emerging need for further research in the field of the genetics and epigenetics of acquired hemorrhagic disorder. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomic Analysis of Common Disease)

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19 pages, 3083 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Lactic Acid Bacteria Fermentation Based on Biotransformation of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity of Mushrooms

by Eda Nur Ayar-Sümer, Yannick Verheust, Beraat Özçelik and Katleen Raes

Foods 2024, 13(11), 1616; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13111616 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Mushrooms contain phenolic compounds that possess health-promoting properties, including antioxidant effects. However, the low solubility and form of phenolic compounds affect their bioactivity and bioaccessibility. To overcome this limitation, our study investigates the fermentation of mushrooms to increase their free phenolic content and [...] Read more.

Mushrooms contain phenolic compounds that possess health-promoting properties, including antioxidant effects. However, the low solubility and form of phenolic compounds affect their bioactivity and bioaccessibility. To overcome this limitation, our study investigates the fermentation of mushrooms to increase their free phenolic content and enhance their bioactivity. Our research focused on the impact of fermentation on both free and bound phenolic fractions (FPs and BPs, respectively) in Lentinula edodes and Lactarius deliciosus, which were successively fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LMG 17673 for 72 h. We examined the total phenolic content (TPC), phenolic profile, and antioxidant activity of both FPs and BPs. Our results showed that the TPC of BPs was higher than that of FPs in both mushrooms, with strong antioxidant capabilities. Fermentation significantly increased the TPC of FPs in both mushrooms, particularly after 24 h of fermentation. The TPC of BPs in mushrooms decreased during fermentation, indicating their release from the matrix. Additionally, we identified 30 bioactive compounds using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Our study demonstrates for the first time that lactic acid bacteria fermentation of mushrooms with high phenolic content leads to the liberation of bound phenolics, enhancing their bioactivity and bioaccessibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fermentation as a Strategy to Improve the Functional and Nutritional Value of Foods)

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22 pages, 3771 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Much Do You Fuse? A Comparison of Cell Fusion Assays in a Breast Cancer Model

by Mareike Sieler, Jessica Dörnen and Thomas Dittmar

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 5668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25115668 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Cell fusion is a biological process that is crucial for the development and homeostasis of different tissues, but it is also pathophysiologically associated with tumor progression and malignancy. The investigation of cell fusion processes is difficult because there is no standardized marker. Many [...] Read more.

Cell fusion is a biological process that is crucial for the development and homeostasis of different tissues, but it is also pathophysiologically associated with tumor progression and malignancy. The investigation of cell fusion processes is difficult because there is no standardized marker. Many studies therefore use different systems to observe and quantify cell fusion in vitro and in vivo. The comparability of the results must be critically questioned, because both the experimental procedure and the assays differ between studies. The comparability of the fluorescence-based fluorescence double reporter (FDR) and dual split protein (DSP) assay was investigated as part of this study, in which general conditions were kept largely constant. In order to be able to induce both a high and a low cell fusion rate, M13SV1 breast epithelial cells were modified with regard to the expression level of the fusogenic protein Syncytin-1 and its receptor ASCT2 and were co-cultivated for 72 h with different breast cancer cell lines. A high number of fused cells was found in co-cultures with Syncytin-1-overexpressing M13SV1 cells, but differences between the assays were also observed. This shows that the quantification of cell fusion events in particular is highly dependent on the assay selected, but the influence of fusogenic proteins can be visualized very well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breast Cancer: From Pathophysiology to Novel Therapeutic Approaches)

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22 pages, 9885 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Temporal Analysis on the Dynamics of the Impact of Land Use and Land Cover on NO₂ and CO Emissions in Argentina for Sustainable Environmental Management

by Viviana Fernández-Maldonado, Ana Laura Navas, María Paula Fabani, Germán Mazza and Rosa Rodríguez

Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4400; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114400 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

This study presents an analysis of NO₂ and CO emissions in Argentina, utilizing remote sensing data. This research aims to determine the spatiotemporal distribution of NO₂ and CO emissions from 2019 to 2021. It examines the influence of land use and [...] Read more.

This study presents an analysis of NO₂ and CO emissions in Argentina, utilizing remote sensing data. This research aims to determine the spatiotemporal distribution of NO₂ and CO emissions from 2019 to 2021. It examines the influence of land use and cover on NO₂ and CO emissions using various climatic, anthropic, and natural indicators. The year with the highest CO and NO₂ concentration was 2020. NO₂ exhibited the highest concentrations in built-up urban areas and croplands, notably impacting the capital city and the northern region of Buenos Aires province. Also, CO concentration was influenced by anthropic variable distances to national route, mining extraction, power plants, airports, and urban index (UI). They were also influenced by climatic and natural variables (Palmer drought index, vapor pressure, maximum environment temperature, wind speed, DEM, humidity, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI)) for the different uses and land covers. NO₂ concentrations were influenced by anthropic (distance to airports, service stations, open dumpsites, power plants, and factories), climatic, and natural variables (Palmer drought index, vapor pressure, wind speed, and DEM) for the different uses and land cover. This research supports sustainable environmental management by guiding the development of effective emission mitigation strategies for improved community health and well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Land Use and Management, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 13244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of the Dynamic Response of Concrete Bridge Piers under the Impact of Rock Debris Flow

by Mai-Li Cheng

Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061504 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

The impact and damage caused by debris flow on concrete bridges have become a typical disaster scenario. However, the impact disaster mechanism of debris flow on bridge structures remains unclear. This study focused on investigating the impact mechanism of debris avalanches on concrete [...] Read more.

The impact and damage caused by debris flow on concrete bridges have become a typical disaster scenario. However, the impact disaster mechanism of debris flow on bridge structures remains unclear. This study focused on investigating the impact mechanism of debris avalanches on concrete bridge piers. By employing the discrete element numerical simulation method to examine the effect of debris on concrete bridge piers, the analysis explored the influence of three significant factors: the pier’s section shape, the impact distance, and the slope angle of the sliding chute. The discussions included the accumulation pattern of rock debris, the impact force on the pier, and the shear force and bending moment at the pier’s bottom, as well as the displacement and velocity response laws at the pier’s top. The results demonstrate that rectangularly shaped piers have a high efficiency in obstructing debris, leading to higher impact forces and internal forces on piers. Arched-shaped piers exhibit a short-duration, high-peak instantaneous impact from debris. Increasing the impact distance of the piers can significantly reduce the impact force of debris. The accumulation height of debris, pier impact force, and the pier’s bottom internal forces decrease and then increase with the increase in slope angles, with a 45° slope angle being the critical point for the transition of debris impact on piers. The results can provide references for the disaster prevention design of concrete bridge structures in hazardous mountainous areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)

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11 pages, 412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reciprocal Relations between Cognitive Empathy and Post-Traumatic Growth in School Bullying Victims

by Fang Liu, Bo Chen, Xinrong Liu, Yifan Zheng, Xiao Zhou and Rui Zhen

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14060435 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

The association between post-traumatic growth (PTG) and cognitive empathy is well documented; however, few studies have tested the causal pathways explaining this association in school bullying victims’ later recovery and growth in the long term. This study used a longitudinal design to examine [...] Read more.

The association between post-traumatic growth (PTG) and cognitive empathy is well documented; however, few studies have tested the causal pathways explaining this association in school bullying victims’ later recovery and growth in the long term. This study used a longitudinal design to examine the reciprocal relations between cognitive empathy and post-traumatic growth (PTG) in school bullying victims. We screened 725 adolescents who had experienced school bullying as our final subjects out of the 2173 adolescents we surveyed over three periods (November 2019, 2020, and 2021). Controlling for gender, cross-lagged analysis revealed that both cognitive empathy at T1 and T2 predicted adolescents’ later PTG at T2 (γ = 0.096, p < 0.05) and T3 (γ = 0.085, p < 0.05), respectively, but the predictive effect across time points from PTG to cognitive empathy was not significant. The results delineated a specific directionality in the relation between cognitive empathy and PTG and suggested an important role of cognitive empathy in fostering school bullying victims’ later recovery and growth. These findings contribute to ongoing research into ways researchers and educators may help and support school bullying victims. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Behaviors in Childhood: Causes and Consequences)

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22 pages, 4770 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Reinforcement Ensemble Learning Method for Rolling Bearing Fault Diagnosis under Variable Work Conditions

by Yanning Li, Yi Zhang, Ruixin Wang and Jiangfeng Fu

Sensors 2024, 24(11), 3323; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113323 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Ensuring the smooth operation of rolling bearings requires a precise fault diagnosis. Particularly, identifying fault types under varying working conditions holds significant importance in practical engineering. Thus, we propose a reinforcement ensemble method for diagnosing rolling bearing faults under varying working conditions. Firstly, [...] Read more.

Ensuring the smooth operation of rolling bearings requires a precise fault diagnosis. Particularly, identifying fault types under varying working conditions holds significant importance in practical engineering. Thus, we propose a reinforcement ensemble method for diagnosing rolling bearing faults under varying working conditions. Firstly, a reinforcement model was designed to select the optimal base learner. Stratified random sampling was used to extract four datasets from raw training data. The reinforcement model was trained by these four datasets, respectively, and we obtained four optimal base learners. Then, a sparse ANN was designed as the ensemble model and the reinforcement learning model that can successfully identify the fault type under variable work conditions was constructed. Extensive experiments were conducted, and the results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method over other intelligent approaches, with significant practical engineering benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Sensing for Mechanical Vibration and Fault Diagnosis)

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12 pages, 2662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Metal-Free Synthesis of 3-Substituted Isocoumarins and Evaluation of Their Fluorescence Properties for Potential Applications

by Mei Sun, Chong-Yang Zeng, Lu-Lu Bu, Mai Xu, Kai Chen, Jia-Lin Liu, Tao Zhang, Jia-You Dai, Jia-Xin Hong and Ming-Wu Ding

Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2449; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112449 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

A novel metal-free synthesis of 3-substituted isocoumarins through a sequential O-acylation/Wittig reaction has been established. The readily accessible (2-carboxybenzyl)-triphenylphosphonium bromide and diverse chlorides produced various 1H-isochromen-1-one in the presence of triethylamine, employing sequential O-acylation and an intramolecular Wittig reaction of acid [...] Read more.

A novel metal-free synthesis of 3-substituted isocoumarins through a sequential O-acylation/Wittig reaction has been established. The readily accessible (2-carboxybenzyl)-triphenylphosphonium bromide and diverse chlorides produced various 1H-isochromen-1-one in the presence of triethylamine, employing sequential O-acylation and an intramolecular Wittig reaction of acid anhydride. Reactions using these facile conditions have exhibited high functional group tolerance and excellent yields (up to 90%). Moreover, the fluorescence properties of isocoumarin derivatives were evaluated at the theoretical and experimental levels to determine their potential application in fluorescent materials. These derivatives have good photoluminescence in THF with a large Stokes shift and an absolute fluorescence quantum yield of up to 14%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organic Chemistry)

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16 pages, 552 KiB

Open AccessReview

Social Support and Mental Well-Being of Newcomer Women and Children Living in Canada: A Scoping Review

by Saima Hirani, Zara Shah, Theresa Claire Dubicki and Nilanga Aki Bandara

Women 2024, 4(2), 172-187; https://doi.org/10.3390/women4020013 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Newcomer women and children are less likely to access and utilize mental health support services as compared to the general Canadian population, despite reporting experiences of mental health issues. This review aimed to map out the social support interventions that are available for [...] Read more.

Newcomer women and children are less likely to access and utilize mental health support services as compared to the general Canadian population, despite reporting experiences of mental health issues. This review aimed to map out the social support interventions that are available for promoting the mental well-being of newcomer women and children living in Canada. A search using Medline, Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane library was conducted to identify published studies. Studies were screened, extracted, and synthesized by two independent reviewers in line with the methodological approach for scoping reviews. Fourteen articles published in English between 2012–2023 were reviewed. Results identified five types of interventions: art and sand play interventions, support groups and workshops, assessment of existing support services, social media interventions, and short-term cognitive behavioral therapy. Our results suggest that culturally appropriate social support interventions increase mental well-being outcomes, such as self-esteem and social support, and reduce peri-migratory traumas for newcomer women and children in Canada. However, findings from this review underscore the need for more quantitative and participatory research approaches so that newcomer women’s and children’s needs are adequately explored and addressed. Full article

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11 pages, 3528 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Lubrication Regimes for Porous Sliding Bearing

by Aleksandar Marinković, Blaža Stojanović, Carsten Gachot and Tatjana Lazović

Lubricants 2024, 12(6), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants12060184 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the lubrication quality of porous sliding bearings, starting from the bearing model and in combination with experimental results aimed at analyzing the lubrication regimes of different working conditions. The separation between the surfaces by the [...] Read more.

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the lubrication quality of porous sliding bearings, starting from the bearing model and in combination with experimental results aimed at analyzing the lubrication regimes of different working conditions. The separation between the surfaces by the lubricant layer is what determines the regime. The quality and type of lubrication regime are determined by parameters in the mathematical model including typically speed, load, motion, materials, environment, etc., which have an impact on friction. Besides those elements, important parameters such as coefficient of friction (COF) and working temperature are to be measured due to experimental investigations to detect an equilibrium working state. The self-lubrication mechanism in porous metal bearings improves their service life and lubrication processes; however, the COF still varies within a wide interval. This variability can be understood, considering that during bearing operation it operates within a broad range of lubrication regimes. Those findings are explained in the paper by using a combination of calculated parameters according to the bearing model and in combination with our own results of experimental investigations. With the obtained results for particular working conditions, the authors are trying to explain, in the form of a diagram with the limit line as an important outcome of the work, that the lubrication regime for porous metal bearings could arise from boundary lubrication (BL) close to hydrodynamic lubrication (HDL). Full article

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15 pages, 1443 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phantom Scalar Field Cosmologies Constrained by Early Cosmic Measurements

by José Antonio Nájera and Celia Escamilla-Rivera

Universe 2024, 10(6), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe10060232 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

In this work, we explore new constraints on phantom scalar field cosmologies with a scalar field employing early-time catalogs related to CMB measurements, along with the local standard observables, like Supernovae Type Ia (SNIa),

H (z)

measurements (Cosmick clocks), and Baryon [...] Read more.

In this work, we explore new constraints on phantom scalar field cosmologies with a scalar field employing early-time catalogs related to CMB measurements, along with the local standard observables, like Supernovae Type Ia (SNIa),

H (z)

measurements (Cosmick clocks), and Baryon Acoustic Oscillation (BAO) baselines. In particular, we studied a tracker phantom field with hyperbolic polar coordinates that have been proposed in the literature. The main goal is to obtain precise cosmological constraints for

H_{0}

and

σ_{8}

, in comparison to other constructions that present tension in early cosmological parameters. Our results show that phantom scalar field cosmologies have a reduced statistical tension on

H_{0}

that it is less than 3

σ

using model-independent CMB catalogs as SPT-3G+WMAP9 and ACTPol DR-4+WMAP9 baselines. This suggests that these models, using a different phantom potential, might address the Hubble constant problem and reduce the systematics involved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Nature of Dark Energy)

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14 pages, 1765 KiB

Open AccessArticle

miRNA- and Cell Line-Specific Constraints on Precursor miRNA Processing of Stably Transfected Pancreatic Cancer and Other Mammalian Cells

by Taylor J. Allen-Coyle, Berta Capella Roca, Alan Costello, Niall Barron, Joanne Keenan, Martin Clynes, Fiona O’Neill and Finbarr O’Sullivan

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 5666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25115666 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate approximately one-third of all human genes. The dysregulation of miRNAs has been implicated in the development of numerous human diseases, including cancers. In our investigation focusing on altering specific miRNA expression in human pancreatic cancer cells, we encountered an interesting [...] Read more.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate approximately one-third of all human genes. The dysregulation of miRNAs has been implicated in the development of numerous human diseases, including cancers. In our investigation focusing on altering specific miRNA expression in human pancreatic cancer cells, we encountered an interesting finding. While two expression vector designs effectively enhanced miR-708 levels, they were unable to elevate mature forms of miR-29b, -1290, -2467, and -6831 in pancreatic cancer cell lines. This finding was also observed in a panel of other non-pancreatic cancer cell lines, suggesting that miRNA processing efficiency was cell line specific. Using a step-by-step approach in each step of miRNA processing, we ruled out alternative strand selection by the RISC complex and transcriptional interference at the primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) level. DROSHA processing and pri-miRNA export from the nucleus also appeared to be occurring normally. We observed precursor (pre-miRNA) accumulation only in cell lines where mature miRNA expression was not achieved, suggesting that the block was occurring at the pre-miRNA stage. To further confirm this, synthetic pre-miRNA mimics that bypass DICER processing were processed into mature miRNAs in all cases. This study has demonstrated the distinct behaviours of different miRNAs with the same vector in the same cell line, the same miRNA between the two vector designs, and with the same miRNA across different cell lines. We identified a stable vector pre-miRNA processing block. Our findings on the structural and sequence differences between successful and non-successful vector designs could help to inform future chimeric miRNA design strategies and act as a guide to other researchers on the intricate processing dynamics that can impact vector efficiency. Our research confirms the potential of miRNA mimics to surmount some of these complexities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeted Delivery of Nucleic Acids)

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4 pages, 195 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial: Biomass Derived Heterogeneous and Homogeneous Catalysts, 2nd Edition

by José María Encinar Martín and Sergio Nogales-Delgado

Catalysts 2024, 14(6), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14060339 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

There are plenty of challenges related to the current energy situation [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Derived Heterogeneous and Homogeneous Catalysts, 2nd Edition)

15 pages, 3801 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Adjuvanted Vaccine-Induced Pathogenesis Following Influenza Virus Infection

by Shiou-Chih Hsu, Kun-Hsien Lin, Yung-Chieh Tseng, Yang-Yu Cheng, Hsiu-Hua Ma, Ying-Chun Chen, Jia-Tsrong Jan, Chung-Yi Wu and Che Ma

Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060569 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

An incomplete Freund’s adjuvant elicited an overt pathogenesis in vaccinated mice following the intranasal challenge of A/California/07/2009 (H1N1) virus despite the induction of a higher specific antibody titer than other adjuvanted formulations. Aluminum hydroxide adjuvants have not induced any pathogenic signs in a [...] Read more.

An incomplete Freund’s adjuvant elicited an overt pathogenesis in vaccinated mice following the intranasal challenge of A/California/07/2009 (H1N1) virus despite the induction of a higher specific antibody titer than other adjuvanted formulations. Aluminum hydroxide adjuvants have not induced any pathogenic signs in a variety of formulations with glycolipids. A glycolipid, α-galactosyl ceramide, improved a stimulatory effect of distinct adjuvanted formulations on an anti-influenza A antibody response. In contrast to α-galactosyl ceramide, its synthetic analogue C34 was antagonistic toward a stimulatory effect of an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant on a specific antibody response. The aluminum hydroxide adjuvant alone could confer complete vaccine-induced protection against mortality as well as morbidity caused by a lethal challenge of the same strain of an influenza A virus. The research results indicated that adjuvants could reshape immune responses either to improve vaccine-induced immunity or to provoke an unexpected pathogenic consequence. On the basis of these observations, this research connotes the prominence to develop a precision adjuvant for innocuous vaccination aimed at generating a protective immunity without aberrant responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Vaccines and Antimicrobial Therapy)

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10 pages, 3428 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acquiring Gamma-Ray Energy Spectrum Using a Plastic Scintillation Optical Fiber Detector

by Siwon Song, Jae Hyung Park, Jinhong Kim, Seunghyeon Kim, Seokhyeon Jegal, Sangjun Lee and Bongsoo Lee

Photonics 2024, 11(6), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics11060493 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

The plastic scintillation optical fiber (PSOF) detector, characterized by its large contact area with measurement targets, effectively detects and quantifies radiation in diverse radiation-contaminated areas and liquid environments. While it is extensively utilized for measuring alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron radiations, comprehensive documentation [...] Read more.

The plastic scintillation optical fiber (PSOF) detector, characterized by its large contact area with measurement targets, effectively detects and quantifies radiation in diverse radiation-contaminated areas and liquid environments. While it is extensively utilized for measuring alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron radiations, comprehensive documentation on the spectrum measurement and energy calibration methods for gamma nuclides has not been reported. Accurate energy calibration is crucial for the precise quantification of radiation doses from various sources. The pulse-height spectrum produced by the PSOF detector does not display a Compton maximum because of the significant Gaussian energy broadening. Additionally, this spectrum compresses as the distance increases between the radiation source and the light measurement device. In this study, the energy spectrum of a PSOF for gamma nuclides was characterized by energy calibrations using Compton edge (CE). The CE channel in the measurement spectrum of the PSOF detector for three gamma nuclides was identified using the first-order differentiation method. This technique was successfully applied to spectra measured at various radiation source positions to determine the attenuation coefficients. The proposed energy calibration method allows for the conversion of pulse-height spectra obtained from alpha, beta, and neutron radiation measured with PSOF detectors into energy spectra. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical Fibre Sensing: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives)

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15 pages, 3498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validation of Inertial-Measurement-Unit-Based Ex Vivo Knee Kinematics during a Loaded Squat before and after Reference-Frame-Orientation Optimisation

by Svenja Sagasser, Adrian Sauer, Christoph Thorwächter, Jana G. Weber, Allan Maas, Matthias Woiczinski, Thomas M. Grupp and Ariana Ortigas-Vásquez

Sensors 2024, 24(11), 3324; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113324 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024

Abstract

Recently, inertial measurement units have been gaining popularity as a potential alternative to optical motion capture systems in the analysis of joint kinematics. In a previous study, the accuracy of knee joint angles calculated from inertial data and an extended Kalman filter and [...] Read more.

Recently, inertial measurement units have been gaining popularity as a potential alternative to optical motion capture systems in the analysis of joint kinematics. In a previous study, the accuracy of knee joint angles calculated from inertial data and an extended Kalman filter and smoother algorithm was tested using ground truth data originating from a joint simulator guided by fluoroscopy-based signals. Although high levels of accuracy were achieved, the experimental setup leveraged multiple iterations of the same movement pattern and an absence of soft tissue artefacts. Here, the algorithm is tested against an optical marker-based system in a more challenging setting, with single iterations of a loaded squat cycle simulated on seven cadaveric specimens on a force-controlled knee rig. Prior to the optimisation of local coordinate systems using the REference FRame Alignment MEthod (REFRAME) to account for the effect of differences in local reference frame orientation, root-mean-square errors between the kinematic signals of the inertial and optical systems were as high as 3.8° ± 3.5° for flexion/extension, 20.4° ± 10.0° for abduction/adduction and 8.6° ± 5.7° for external/internal rotation. After REFRAME implementation, however, average root-mean-square errors decreased to 0.9° ± 0.4° and to 1.5° ± 0.7° for abduction/adduction and for external/internal rotation, respectively, with a slight increase to 4.2° ± 3.6° for flexion/extension. While these results demonstrate promising potential in the approach’s ability to estimate knee joint angles during a single loaded squat cycle, they highlight the limiting effects that a reduced number of iterations and the lack of a reliable consistent reference pose inflicts on the sensor fusion algorithm’s performance. They similarly stress the importance of adapting underlying assumptions and correctly tuning filter parameters to ensure satisfactory performance. More importantly, our findings emphasise the notable impact that properly aligning reference-frame orientations before comparing joint kinematics can have on results and the conclusions derived from them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosensors for Gait Measurements and Patient Rehabilitation)

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