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With an estimated 32,000 annual fatalities, fishing vessel accidents are 100-fold deadlier than those involving merchant ships. Despite ongoing safety training, accident rates remain high. Since most fishing vessel accidents occur in small fishing vessels (<12 m) and are primarily attributable to human elements, this study focuses on small fishing vessel accidents where the human element is the primary cause, exploring preventive measures for major accident types and performing a type-specific risk assessment. First, we performed a quantitative analysis of frequently occurring accidents and the indirect factors influencing the human element using maritime accident statistics and surveys, respectively. Next, we employed the fault tree analysis technique proposed by the International Maritime Organization in its Formal Safety Assessment to quantitatively assess the rate of accidents caused by the human element attributable to various indirect factors. The primary indirect factors most significantly impacting the human element were ship factors (22.8%), people factors (18.9%), and organization on board (17.4%). Secondary factors included personal negligence (14.1%), aging equipment and poor maintenance (10.3%), and harsh natural conditions such as rough waves (9.6%). Eliminating the top three secondary indirect factors reduced accidents due to the human element by 15.4% (64.5−49.1%). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Assessment in Maritime Transportation)

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20 pages, 423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

by Alina Matuszak-Flejszman, Anna Preisner and Joanna Katarzyna Banach

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7749; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177749 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

The fast fashion industry significantly impacts the environment at every stage of, a product’s life cycle. The transport of products to wholesalers and stores, as one of the stages of the product life cycle, is often overlooked during the analysis of their carbon footprint. Therefore, research is needed on the impact of fast fashion on the environment through its logistics and transport, especially in relation to air emissions. This article attempts to determine how extensively fast fashion companies disclose the impact of their transport operations on their overall corporate carbon footprint, determine the proportion of total emissions attributed to transport, and evaluate the effectiveness of companies’ efforts to mitigate their transport-related environmental impact. This research used a case study method on selected brands (H&M Group, Inditex, Shein), using secondary data available in non-financial reports for 2023. As a result of the analysis of their non-financial reports on transport emissions, several key findings have been presented. Companies predominantly rely on external frameworks and standards, particularly the Global Reporting Initiative. However, the level of detail of the data presented varies. The priority for the surveyed companies is to reduce emissions from significant sources, such as production processes. The data disclosed in the reports (scope 1, 2, 3) must be clearly formulated and can be used to calculate the level of their CO₂ emission reduction or increase. Companies should improve their environmental reporting by including indicators of their transport-related emissions. This approach provides a comprehensive view of their environmental impact, highlighting absolute values and efficiency metrics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Management Challenges for Sustainability and Wellbeing—2nd Edition)

48 pages, 22721 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review on Barbituric Acid and Its Derivatives: Synthesis, Reactions, and Bio-Applications

by Navneet Kaur, Manvinder Kaur, Harvinder Singh Sohal, Haesook Han and Pradip K. Bhowmik

Organics 2024, 5(3), 298-345; https://doi.org/10.3390/org5030017 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Barbituric acid is a heterocyclic compound with various pharmacological and biological applications. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of barbituric acid’s synthesis, reactions, and bio-applications, highlighting its multifaceted role in various fields. Many heterocyclic derivatives were formed based on barbituric acid, for instance, pyrano-fused pyrimidine derivatives, spiro-oxindole derivatives, chrome-based barbituric acid derivatives, and many more via the atom economic method, Michael addition reaction, Knoevenagel condensation reaction, etc. In the context of bio-applications, this review examines the production of a wide range of bioactive drugs like anti-histamine, anti-leprotic, sedative–hypnotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-urease, antiviral, anti-AIDS, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, anesthetic agent, antitumor, and anticancer drugs using efficient multicomponent reactions. By showcasing the versatility and potential of this compound, it aims to inspire further research and innovation in the field, leading to the development of novel barbituric acid derivatives with enhanced properties and diverse applications, with coverage of the literature relevant up to 2024. Full article

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17 pages, 5610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Asymmetric-Convolution-Guided Multipath Fusion for Real-Time Semantic Segmentation Networks

by Jie Liu, Bing Zhao and Ming Tian

Mathematics 2024, 12(17), 2759; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12172759 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Aiming to provide solutions for problems proposed by the inaccurate segmentation of long objects and information loss of small objects in real-time semantic segmentation algorithms, this paper proposes a lightweight multi-branch real-time semantic segmentation network based on BiseNetV2. The new auxiliary branch makes full use of spatial details and context information to cover the long object in the field of view. Meanwhile, in order to ensure the inference speed of the model, the asymmetric convolution is used in each stage of the auxiliary branch to design a structure with low computational complexity. In the multi-branch fusion stage, the alignment-and-fusion module is designed to provide guidance information for deep and shallow feature mapping, so as to make up for the problem of feature misalignment in the fusion of information at different scales, and thus reduce the loss of small target information. In order to further improve the model’s awareness of key information, a global context module is designed to capture the most important features in the input data. The proposed network uses an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Laptop GPU experiment on the road street view Cityscapes and CamVid datasets, with the average simultaneously occurring ratios reaching 77.1% and 77.4%, respectively, and the running speeds reaching 127 frames/s and 112 frames/s, respectively. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can achieve a real-time segmentation and improve the accuracy significantly, showing good semantic segmentation performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematical Modeling, Machine Learning, and Intelligent Computing for Internet of Things)

13 pages, 313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Screen Time and Social Media Hyperconnection Have Harmed Adolescents’ Relational and Psychological Well-Being since the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Antonio Tintori, Giulia Ciancimino and Loredana Cerbara

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(9), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13090470 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the increase in screen time and hyperconnection on social media is raising significant concerns, with particular emphasis of their effects on the relational and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. The present study analyses data from two representative cross-sectional surveys conducted among Italian adolescents in 2019 and 2022. Through bivariate analyses and binary logistic regression models, the study examines changes in screen time on social media, identifies key socio-demographic predictors of hyperconnection, and explores its effects on both the relational and psychological well-being of young people. The findings reveal the profound impact of the pandemic on daily social media use, showing a significant increase across all social groups regardless of socio-demographic characteristics, with girls consistently exhibiting higher levels of hyperconnection. Additionally, the results indicate that hyperconnected individuals are 1.4 times more likely to experience negative psychological states compared to their peers. The effects of hyperconnection vary by gender, influencing both horizontal and vertical social interactions, reducing trust in adult figures, increasing the likelihood of cyberbullying victimisation, phubbing, and body image concerns, and fostering the belief that online relationships can replace offline ones. Overall, the study highlights the urgent need for more effective prevention, awareness, and educational strategies aimed at educators, parents, and adolescents. Full article

20 pages, 3370 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Atomic Ordering on Phase Stability and Elastic Properties of Pd-Ag Alloys

by Xiaoli Chen, Guangxiong Luo, Yuxuan Cao and Chaoping Liang

Metals 2024, 14(9), 1017; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14091017 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Palladium (Pd) and its alloys, renowned for their good corrosion resistance, catalytic efficiency, and hydrogen affinity, find extensive use in various industrial applications. However, the susceptibility of pure Pd to hydrogen embrittlement necessitates alloying strategies such as Pd-Ag systems. This study investigates the impact of the ordering on the phase stability and elastic properties of Pd-Ag alloys through first-principles calculations. We explore a series of ordered phase structures alongside random solid solutions using Special Quasirandom Structures (SQSs), evaluating their thermodynamic stability and elastic properties. Our findings indicate the possible existence of stable ordered L1₂ Pd₃Ag and PdAg₃ and L1₁ PdAg phases, which are thought to exist only in Cu-Pt alloys. An analysis of the elastic constants and anisotropy indices underscores some pronounced directional dependencies in the mechanical responses between the random solid-solution and ordered phases. This suggests that the ordered phases not only are thermodynamically and mechanically more stable than solid-solution phases, but also display a decrease in anisotropy indices. The results provide a deeper understanding of the atomic behavior of Pd-Ag alloys, and shed light on the design of multiphase Pd-Ag alloys to improve their mechanical properties. Full article

14 pages, 663 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Test Results of Crystalline Silicon Melting Process from Briquetted Monocharge Obtained from Microsilica

by Alibek Baisanov, Nina Vorobkalo, Yerbol Shabanov, Azat Mussin, Symbat Sharieva and Amir Makishev

Processes 2024, 12(9), 1911; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12091911 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Currently, enterprises producing crystalline silicon are facing the formation and accumulation of large volumes of microsilica, a technogenic dusty waste formed during the melting of silicon alloys. Due to its chemical composition, this waste can be a significant raw material for metallurgical production. Therefore, this study is aimed to solve the problem of recycling microsilica. For these studies, a technology for the combined briquetting of microsilica and a carbonaceous reducing agent was developed for the production of a pilot batch of briquettes. This paper presents the results obtained from the process of testing the melting of crystalline (technical) silicon from briquetted monocharge obtained from microsilica. The tests were conducted under large-scale laboratory conditions on a 200 kVA ore-thermal furnace, where 30, 50, and 100% replacements of the traditional charge mixture with briquettes were tested. The results of this study showed that briquettes in the melting process of technical silicon can be successfully used in the range of 0 to 50%. The use of briquettes can significantly improve the technological indicators. The maximum extraction of silicon (approximately 83%) was achieved at 30% replacement. The technical and economic indicators of the process also improved. In particular, an increase in productivity was observed in comparison with tests on a traditional charge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Materials Processes)

23 pages, 3571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does the Weather Still Affect Me When I Shop at Home? The Impact of Weather on Online Shopping Behavior

by Hongde Liu, Jun Wang, Ruilin Zhang and Ou Liu

J. Theor. Appl. Electron. Commer. Res. 2024, 19(3), 2289-2311; https://doi.org/10.3390/jtaer19030111 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Previous studies have acknowledged the impact of weather changes on retail uncertainty. They primarily focus on understanding how weather conditions affect offline consumer behavior and aim to develop effective marketing strategies. However, there is little research on the complex impact of weather on online shopping behavior. To bridge this gap, we conduct a study with a sample of 261 consumers from China with shopping experience in community retail shops (CRSs). We utilize the S-O-R model and theories, including meteorological emotional effect theory, emotional coherence, and meteorological psychology, to model and elucidate the relationship between weather and consumers’ online shopping behavior in CRS. Our findings reveal that weather conditions affect consumers’ spending patterns and purchase diversity, mediated by consumers’ emotions and risk aversion when they comfortably shop online at home. Furthermore, employing the fsQCA model, we identify the critical path through which weather conditions and consumer types influence risk-aversion awareness. The results provide management implications for retailers to develop online marketing strategies for different consumer types. Full article

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16 pages, 2528 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Measurement Accuracy and Attitude Compensation of Rayleigh Lidar on an Airborne Floating Platform

by Tong Wu, Kai Zhong, Xianzhong Zhang, Fangjie Li, Xinqi Li, Xiaojian Zhang, Zhaoai Yan, Degang Xu and Jianquan Yao

Remote Sens. 2024, 16(17), 3308; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16173308 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Rayleigh lidar equipped on airborne floating platforms has received increasing attention in recent years due to the demand for exploring the middle atmosphere. However, the inevitable attitude fluctuation of the platform affects the measurement accuracy of the photon profile, which greatly affects temperature retrieval. Here, an extensive theoretical analysis model of geometrical transformations between the actual altitude and detection distance under attitude fluctuations was constructed by taking pitch, roll, and observation angles into consideration. Based on this model and measured attitude angles, the influence of platform fluctuation on lidar measurement was analyzed by calculating the deviations between temperature retrieval results and the NRLMSISE-00 model at different observation angles, which demonstrated that the altitude displacement from the variation of pitch angle is a crucial factor in causing temperature retrieval error, especially at large observation angles. Then, an attitude compensation method was designed to eliminate the impact of fluctuations, incorporating the merits of good robustness. Under the observation angle of 45° and average pitch angle of around 4°, the maximum temperature deviation after attitude compensation was reduced from 21.29 K to 0.366 K, a reduction of around two orders of magnitude, indicating that the method can significantly improve the measurement accuracy of Rayleigh lidar. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Lidar Remote Sensing for Atmosphere, Vegetation, and Ocean Observations)

19 pages, 13652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Microstructural Evolution Behavior of Ni-Based Single-Crystal Alloy with Re Based on Non-Linear Ultrasonic Lamb Wave and Molecular Dynamics Method

by Ben Li, Yilin Zhang, Hongyan Zhou and Xuewu Li

Metals 2024, 14(9), 1016; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14091016 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Interface dislocation networks have a great influence on the mechanical properties of the new Ni-based single-crystal alloy (NSC) containing Re, but it is difficult to find out the structural evolution behaviors at the micro-level. Thus, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is used to analyze the atomic potential energy change and dislocation evolution mechanism, and non-linear characteristic parameters are used to analyze the microstructure evolution of NSC. First, a new model of Ni-Al-Re that is closer to the real properties of the material is established using the MD method according to the optimal volume ratio of matrix phase to precipitate phase. Then, the MD models of NSC with different contents of Re are calculated and analyzed under compressive and tensile loads. The results show that with an increase in Re atoms, the atomic potential energy at the interface dislocation networks is reduced; thus, the stability of the system is enhanced, and the hindrance of the interface dislocation networks to the dislocation movement of the matrix phase is strengthened. At the same time, the number of HCP structures and OISs formed by the destruction of the intact FCC structures also decreases. In the non-linear ultrasonic experiment, with the increase in Re atoms, the non-linear enhancement of the microstructure of the NSC leads to an increase in the corresponding non-linear characteristic parameters. Accordingly, the microstructural evolution behaviors of the phase interface of the new NSC can be effectively explored using the combination of MD simulation and non-linear ultrasonic experimentation. The results of this study lay a foundation for the subsequent research of the microscopic defects of NSCs by using ultrasonic phased-array technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Processing Technology of Superalloys)

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21 pages, 1240 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Resistance to Cercospora Leaf Spot in Mung Bean (Vigna radiata L.) through Bradyrhizobium sp. DOA9 Priming: Molecular Insights and Bio-Priming Potential

by Apisit Songsaeng, Pakpoom Boonchuen, Phongkeat Nareephot, Pongdet Piromyou, Jenjira Wongdee, Teerana Greetatorn, Sukanya Inthaisong, Piyada Alisha Tantasawat, Kamonluck Teamtisong, Panlada Tittabutr, Shusei Sato, Nantakorn Boonkerd, Pongpan Songwattana and Neung Teaumroong

Plants 2024, 13(17), 2495; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13172495 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.), a vital legume in Asia with significant nutritional benefits, is highly susceptible to Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) caused by Cercospora canescens, leading to significant yield losses. As an alternative to chemical fungicides, bio-priming with rhizobacteria can enhance plant resistance. This study explores the potential of Bradyrhizobium sp. strain DOA9 to augment resistance in mung bean against CLS via root priming. The results reveal that short (3 days) and double (17 and 3 days) priming with DOA9 before fungal infection considerably reduces lesion size on infected leaves by activating defense-related genes, including Pti1, Pti6, EDS1, NDR1, PR-1, PR-2, Prx, and CHS, or by suppressing the inhibition of PR-5 and enhancing peroxidase (POD) activity in leaves. Interestingly, the Type 3 secretion system (T3SS) of DOA9 may play a role in establishing resistance in V. radiata CN72. These findings suggest that DOA9 primes V. radiata CN72′s defense mechanisms, offering an effective bio-priming strategy to alleviate CLS. Hence, our insights propose the potential use of DOA9 as a bio-priming agent to manage CLS in V. radiata CN72, providing a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicide applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Protection and Biotic Interactions)

6 pages, 1565 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

2,3-Dihydrobenzo[e][1,3]oxazin-4-one

by R. Alan Aitken, David B. Cordes, Mhairi R. Kinahan and Aidan P. McKay

Molbank 2024, 2024(3), M1878; https://doi.org/10.3390/M1878 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

The title compound and its hydroxymethyl precursor have been fully characterised for the first time. The IR spectra, fully assigned ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectra, and X-ray structures are presented for both compounds. Both compounds form hydrogen-bonded dimers in the crystal structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Structure Determination)

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16 pages, 3057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Applicability of Bispectral Analysis to Causality Determination within and between Ensembles of Unstable Plasma Waves

by Renaud Stauber and Mark Koepke

Atoms 2024, 12(9), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/atoms12090044 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Turbulence implies nonlinear wave–wave coupling, and determining cause and effect of either is important to understand mixing responsible for enhanced number, momentum, or energy (NME) transport. To explain the identification of parent and daughter modes via a look-up table, we sketch the framework of bispectral analysis without repeating the mathematical formalism of earlier bispectrum researchers. We then apply this technique to a test signal and plasma fluctuation data from the WVU-Q machine, where the inhomogeneous energy density-driven spectrum exhibited a degree of coupling to lower frequencies that was absent in the case of the related, single-eigenmode, current-driven spectrum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plasma Physics Highlights: Non-equilibrium Dynamics, Interfaces and Mixing)

20 pages, 1162 KiB

Open AccessReview

Oral Lichen Planus: A Narrative Review Navigating Etiologies, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnostics, and Therapeutic Approaches

by Houriah Yasir Nukaly, Ibrahim R. Halawani, Saja Mohammed S. Alghamdi, Araa Ghanem Alruwaili, Alhanouf Binhezaim, Rana Ali A. Algahamdi, Rayan Abdullah J. Alzahrani, Faisal Saad S. Alharamlah, Shahad Hamad S. Aldumkh, Hamad Majid A. Alasqah, Awadh Alamri and Abdulhadi Jfri

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(17), 5280; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13175280 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a common immune-mediated inflammatory disorder affecting the oral mucosa, impacting 0.5% to 2% of the global population, primarily middle-aged women. Immunological dysregulation is a key factor in OLP’s pathogenesis, involving CD4+ T helper and CD8+ T cytotoxic cells. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies OLP as a potentially malignant disorder, with a risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) developing in up to 2% of lesions. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, and therapeutic strategies for OLP, informing clinical practice and guiding future research. Methods: A review of the literature from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases was conducted up to December 2023, focusing on studies addressing the etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, clinical manifestations, and treatment of OLP. Results: OLP’s pathogenesis is driven by immune dysregulation, with CD4+ and CD8+ cells playing crucial roles. Clinically, OLP presents as reticular, erosive, bullous, and plaque-like lesions. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination, histopathology, and direct immunofluorescence. Recent advancements in diagnostic markers and imaging techniques have improved detection and monitoring. Treatment primarily involves corticosteroids, but novel therapies such as curcumin, retinoids, and laser therapy are increasingly used for their effectiveness and reduced side effects. These treatments show promise in symptom reduction and recurrence prevention, although long-term data are needed. Conclusions: Regular screenings and biopsies are essential due to OLP’s likelihood of malignant transformation. This study urges further investigation into long-term results, improved diagnostic techniques, and evidence-based treatment regimens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine)

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21 pages, 1084 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consensus of T-S Fuzzy Fractional-Order, Singular Perturbation, Multi-Agent Systems

by Xiyi Wang, Xuefeng Zhang, Witold Pedrycz, Shuang-Hua Yang and Driss Boutat

Fractal Fract. 2024, 8(9), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract8090523 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2024

Abstract

Due to system complexity, research on fuzzy fractional-order, singular perturbation, multi-agent systems (FOSPMASs) remains limited in control theory. This article focuses on the leader-following consensus of fuzzy FOSPMASs with orders in the range of

(0, 2)

. By employing the T-S fuzzy [...] Read more.

(0, 2)

. By employing the T-S fuzzy modeling approach, a fuzzy FOSPMAS is constructed. In order to achieve the consensus of a FOSPMAS with multiple time-scale characteristics, a fuzzy observer-based controller is designed, and the error system corresponding to each agent is derived. Through a series of equivalent transformations, the error system is decomposed into fuzzy singular fractional-order systems (SFOSs). The consensus conditions of the fuzzy FOSPMASs are obtained based on linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) without an equality constraint. The theorems provide a way to tackle the uncertainty and nonlinearity in FOSPMASs with orders in the range of

(0, 2)

. Finally, the effectiveness of the theorems is verified through an RLC circuit model and a numerical example. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Engineering)

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