Saved Queries

by Walid El Kayal, Linda Darwiche, Yasmine A. Farhat, Mariane Hdeib, Roaa AlJardaly, Mostapha Shbaro and Christelle F. Iskandar

Plants 2024, 13(17), 2460; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13172460 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Background: Leafy greens, particularly romaine lettuce, are often associated with outbreaks due to their susceptibility to contamination from various environmental sources. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of E. coli, Salmonella, copper, nickel, zinc, and manganese in irrigation water, lettuce leaves, and agricultural soil in the Litani River Basin (LRB), Lebanon. Method: Samples were collected from five demonstration plots employing different agricultural practices. Heavy metal concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry, while E. coli and Salmonella testing were conducted through conventional culturing techniques. The impact of E. coli contamination on seed germination and the interaction effects between E. coli and heavy metals were also examined. The study also compared the effectiveness of various irrigation systems in reducing bacterial contamination. Results: The results demonstrated that contamination levels varied significantly across the plots and irrigation types. This variation underscores the necessity of site-specific mitigation strategies to enhance food safety. Our findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate irrigation methods and implementing tailored agricultural practices to minimize the risk of contamination. Conclusion: This research provides valuable insights for optimizing agricultural practices in the LRB to ensure food safety and environmental sustainability. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

3D-Printed Phenylboronic Acid-Bearing Hydrogels for Glucose-Triggered Drug Release

by Jérémy Odent, Nicolas Baleine, Serena Maria Torcasio, Sarah Gautier, Olivier Coulembier and Jean-Marie Raquez

Polymers 2024, 16(17), 2502; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16172502 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Diabetes is a major health concern that the next-generation of on-demand insulin releasing implants may overcome via personalized therapy. Therein, 3D-printed phenylboronic acid-containing implants with on-demand glucose-triggered drug release abilities are produced using high resolution stereolithography technology. To that end, the methacrylation of phenylboronic acid is targeted following a two-step reaction. The resulting photocurable phenylboronic acid derivative is accordingly incorporated within bioinert polyhydroxyethyl methacrylate-based hydrogels at varying loadings. The end result is a sub-centimeter scaled 3D-printed bioinert implant that can be remotely activated with 1,2-diols and 1,3-diols such as glucose for on-demand drug administration such as insulin. As a proof of concept, varying glucose concentration from hypoglycemic to hyperglycemic levels readily allow the release of pinacol, i.e., a 1,2-diol-containing model molecule, at respectively low and high rates. In addition, the results demonstrated that adjusting the geometry and size of the 3D-printed part is a simple and suitable method for tailoring the release behavior and dosage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in 3D Printing II)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3783 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Rapid and Cost-Effective Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of Force-Sensing Resistor Sensors

by Jinwoo Jung, Kihak Lee and Bonghwan Kim

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(17), 7774; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14177774 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

In this study, we developed a cost-effective and rapid method for fabricating force-sensing resistor (FSR) sensors as an alternative to commercial force sensors. Our aim was to achieve performance characteristics comparable to existing commercial products while significantly reducing costs and fabrication time. We analyzed the material composition of two widely used commercial force sensors: Interlink FSR-402 and Flexiforce A201-1. Based on this analysis, we selected 4B and 9B pencils, which contain high concentrations of graphite, and silicone sealant to replicate these material properties. The fabrication process involved creating piezoresistive sheets by shading A4 copy paper with 4B and 9B pencils to form a uniform layer of graphite. Additionally, we prepared a mixture of 9B pencil lead powder and silicone sealant, ensuring a consistent application on the paper substrate. Measurement results indicated that the force sensor fabricated using a mixture of 9B pencil powder and silicone sealant exhibited electrical and mechanical characteristics closely resembling those of commercial sensors. Load tests revealed that the hand-made sensors provided a proportional voltage output in response to increasing and decreasing loads, similar to commercial FSR sensors. These results suggest that our fabrication method can produce reliable and accurate FSR sensors suitable for various applications, including wearable technology, robotics, and force-sensing interfaces. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential for creating cost-effective and high-performance FSR sensors using readily available materials and simple fabrication techniques. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 11148 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exogenous Melatonin Modulates Photosynthesis and Antioxidant Systems for Improving Drought Tolerance of Sorghum Seedling

by Yushan Bo, Yifan Xing, Yu Wang, Wendong Gu, Xinyi Jiang, Jiarui Yu, Xiaolong Shi, Chunjuan Liu, Chang Liu and Yufei Zhou

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(9), 9785-9806; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46090581 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Sorghum faces significant production challenges due to drought stress. Melatonin has been demonstrated to play a crucial role in coping with stresses in plants. This study investigated the effect of exogenous melatonin on the sorghum seedling growth, photosynthetic capacity, and antioxidant system under drought stress. The results indicated that drought stress inhibited the growth of sorghum seedlings by a marked reduction in leaf relative water content, along with a significant increase in both malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide content. The drought stress also led to a significant diminution in chlorophyll contents, thereby curtailing the capacity for light energy capture. Furthermore, the efficiency of the photosynthetic electron transport chain was adversely impacted. However, the application of exogenous melatonin notably mitigated the adverse effects on sorghum seedlings under the drought stress. Additionally, it stimulated an elevation in the photosynthetic rate and a decrease in non-photochemical quenching. The exogenous melatonin also facilitated the preservation of the chloroplast ultra-structure and boosted the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the content of non-enzymatic antioxidants. Cluster heat maps and principal component analysis further revealed significant correlations among various parameters under different treatment conditions. These results highlight melatonin’s role in improving sorghum’s drought tolerance, which is beneficial for agricultural management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Breeding and Genetics Research in Plants, 2nd Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 542 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Efficient Hybrid Method for Calculating the Focal Field of a Cassegrain Antenna

by Hongfei Lian, Yanwen Jiang, Dawei Lu, Huaitie Xiao and Hongqi Fan

Photonics 2024, 11(9), 832; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics11090832 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

The evaluation of the focal field of Cassegrain antennas is crucial for the design and optimization of the complex feeds in quasi-optical systems. However, employing traditional physical optics methods generates high computational complexity and is inefficient. An accurate and efficient calculation method of Cassegrain antennas’ focal fields that involves a range of incidence angles is proposed, which integrates ray tracing and vector diffraction integration (RT-VDI) theories. It can calculate the focal field in any given or predefined incident direction, not limited to the case of axial incidence. In addition, the use of the equivalent parabolic theory greatly simplifies the process of integral calculation. Moreover, ray tracing and integration operations are executed upon the calculation of the reflector to further improve efficiency. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Lasers, Light Sources and Sensors)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 5446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multimode Fusion-Based Aviation Communication System

by Jingyi Qian, Min Liu, Feng Xia, Yunfeng Bai, Dongxiu Ou and Jinsong Kang

Aerospace 2024, 11(9), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11090719 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a new design for a multimode fusion communication system, aimed at tackling the complexities of modern aeronautical communication. The system integrates multiple communication technologies, such as ad hoc networking, 5G, BeiDou satellite, RTK positioning, and ADS-B broadcasting. This integration effectively solves the problem of increasing the size and weight of aviation communication equipment while also improving the efficiency and security of data communication. The study demonstrates that the implementation of this fusion communication system can lead to the development of more efficient and intelligent avionics equipment in the future, thereby offering robust technical support for flight safety. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness and Factors Influencing Success of Transcanalicular Laser-Assisted Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy: Cohort Study

by Radosław Różycki, Łukasz Skrzypiec, Katarzyna Ulaszewska, Jakub S. Gąsior and Jaromir Wasyluk

Diagnostics 2024, 14(17), 1944; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14171944 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Laser dacryocystorhinostomy (LDCR) is a surgical procedure designed to treat obstructions in the lacrimal duct system, which can cause excessive tearing, infections, and discomfort. This technique involves creating a new passage for tear drainage, thereby restoring normal tear flow and alleviating symptoms associated with duct obstruction. A retrospective study was conducted on 48 patients who underwent the LDCR procedure, amounting to 56 eyes. The primary outcome measured was the anatomical success rate, defined as the restoration of duct patency. Patients were examined postoperatively from 6 months to 3.5 years. The LDCR method demonstrated a 95% success rate, encompassing both anatomical and functional outcomes. The procedure’s effectiveness was determined by achieving a patent osteotomy and resolving symptoms. Anatomical success was measured by the creation of a viable drainage pathway, while functional success pertained to the resolution of symptoms such as epiphora. The efficacy of the procedure was found to be independent of both age and gender. Among patients with successful anatomical outcomes, there was a statistically significant improvement in their Munk scores. The LDCR method is highly effective in treating lacrimal duct obstruction. These findings highlight the importance of the Munk score as a predictive indicator of procedural success in LDCR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)

18 pages, 723 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ethical AI in Financial Inclusion: The Role of Algorithmic Fairness on User Satisfaction and Recommendation

by Qin Yang and Young-Chan Lee

Big Data Cogn. Comput. 2024, 8(9), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/bdcc8090105 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on financial inclusion satisfaction and recommendation, with a focus on the ethical dimensions and perceived algorithmic fairness. Drawing upon organizational justice theory and the heuristic–systematic model, we examine how algorithm transparency, accountability, and legitimacy influence users’ perceptions of fairness and, subsequently, their satisfaction with and likelihood to recommend AI-driven financial inclusion services. Through a survey-based quantitative analysis of 675 users in China, our results reveal that perceived algorithmic fairness acts as a significant mediating factor between the ethical attributes of AI systems and the user responses. Specifically, higher levels of transparency, accountability, and legitimacy enhance users’ perceptions of fairness, which, in turn, significantly increases both their satisfaction with AI-facilitated financial inclusion services and their likelihood to recommend them. This research contributes to the literature on AI ethics by empirically demonstrating the critical role of transparent, accountable, and legitimate AI practices in fostering positive user outcomes. Moreover, it addresses a significant gap in the understanding of the ethical implications of AI in financial inclusion contexts, offering valuable insights for both researchers and practitioners in this rapidly evolving field. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 19003 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Three-Phase Single-Stage AC-DC Converter Using Series–Series Compensation Circuit in Inductive-Power-Transfer-Based Small Wind Power Generation System

by Yu-jin Moon, Beom-su Park, Sang-kyu Kim, Eun-soo Kim, Jong-seob Won, Sung-soo Kang and Jun-young Kim

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(17), 7769; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14177769 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

In this paper, a three-phase single-stage AC-DC converter for an IPT-based small wind power generation system (WPGS) with an S-S compensation circuit is proposed. It applies a three-phase single-stage AC-DC converter to improve the input power factor (PF), efficiency, and reliability in small WPGSs. Also, inductive power transfer (IPT) was applied to compensate for brush wear in the nacelle of small and medium-sized wind turbines while ensuring electrical safety. In conditions of the three-phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG) voltage (80~260 V_rms) for the wind turbine and the load (150~1000 W), it was verified that the desired output voltage below 3% can be controlled through the fixed link voltage (V_Link) control without wireless communication. A 1 kW prototype was built and tested to demonstrate its applicability to the rotation of small and medium-sized wind turbine nacelles instead of brushes and slip rings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wireless Power Transfer Systems)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 6079 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation Model of a Steelmaking–Continuous Casting Process Based on Dynamic-Operation Rules

by Xin Shao, Qing Liu, Hongzhi Chen, Jiangshan Zhang, Shan Gao and Shaoshuai Li

Materials 2024, 17(17), 4352; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17174352 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

The steelmaking–continuous casting process (SCCP) is a complex manufacturing process which exhibits the distinct features of process manufacturing. The SCCP involves a variety of production elements, such as multiple process routes, a wide array of smelting and auxiliary devices, and a variety of raw and auxiliary materials. The production-simulation of SCCP holds a natural advantage in being able to accurately depict the intricate production behavior involved, and this serves as a crucial tool for optimizing the production operation of the SCCP. This paper thoroughly considers the various production elements involved in the SCCP, such as the fluctuation of the converter smelting cycle, fluctuation of heat weight, and ladle operation. Based on the Plant Simulation software platform, a dynamic simulation model of the SCCP is established and detailed descriptions are provided regarding the design of an SCCP using dynamic-operation rules. Additionally, a dynamic operational control program for the SCCP is developed using the SimTalk language, one which ensures the continuous operation of the caster in the SCCP, using the discrete simulation platform. The effectiveness of the proposed dynamic simulation model is verified by the total completion time of the production plan, the transfer time of the heat among the different processes, and the frequency of ladle turnover. The simulation’s results indicate that the dynamic simulation model has a satisfactory effect in simulating the actual production process. On this basis, the application effects of different schedules are compared and analyzed. Compared with a heuristic schedule, the optimized schedule based on the “furnace–machine coordinating” mode reduces the weighted value of total completion time by 8.7 min, reduces the weighted value of transfer waiting time by 45.5 min, and the number of rescheduling times is also reduced, demonstrating a better application effect and verifying the optimizing effect of the “furnace–machine coordinating” mode on the schedule. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metallurgical Process Simulation and Optimization—2nd Volume)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 245 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Factors Associated with Medication Noncompliance in Dogs in New Zealand

by Thomas F. Odom, Christopher B. Riley, Jackie Benschop and Kate E. Hill

Animals 2024, 14(17), 2557; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14172557 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Client compliance with prescribed medication instructions to treat their pets is a concern. This study describes factors associated with the noncompliance of dog owners with veterinary recommendations for medication, as well as client-reported barriers and aids to administering medications. A cross-sectional survey of dog owners’ compliance with veterinary medication recommendations was performed from 9 January 2019 to 18 July 2020. A convenience sample of owners who prescribed medication for their dogs during or following elective veterinary examination was surveyed regarding medication administration experience and compliance. Owners were followed up to determine if the course of medication had been completed. Compliance data were analyzed descriptively. Logistic regression was performed with compliance as the outcome. Medication noncompliance was recorded for 47% (71/151) of owners. Increasing dog age was associated with better owner compliance (p < 0.05). Pet owners who used “nothing” as an aid to medicating were less likely to be noncompliant (p < 0.05). Forty-seven percent (71/151) of owners reported that “nobody” showed them how to administer the medication. One-third of dog owners (47/151) reported challenges in medicating their pets. The most common reason cited by clients reporting challenges was a resistant pet. Demonstration of medication administration techniques and discussion about available aids to medicating a pet may improve client compliance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)

21 pages, 1576 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microcredit Pricing Model for Microfinance Institutions under Basel III Banking Regulations

by Patricia Durango-Gutiérrez, Juan Lara-Rubio, Andrés Navarro-Galera and Dionisio Buendía-Carrillo

Int. J. Financial Stud. 2024, 12(3), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijfs12030088 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this research is to propose a tool for designing a microcredit risk pricing strategy for borrowers of microfinance institutions (MFIs). Design/methodology/approach. Considering the specific characteristics of microcredit borrowers, we first estimate and measure microcredit risk through the default probability, applying a parametric technique such as logistic regression and a non-parametric technique based on an artificial neural network, looking for the model with the highest predictive power. Secondly, based on the Basel III internal ratings-based (IRB) approach, we use the credit risk measurement for each borrower to design a pricing model that sets microcredit interest rates according to default risk. Findings. The paper demonstrates that the probability of default for each borrower is more accurately adjusted using the artificial neural network. Furthermore, our results suggest that, given a profitability target for the MFI, the microcredit interest rate for clients with a lower level of credit risk should be lower than a standard, fixed rate to achieve the profitability target. Practical implications. This tool allows us, on the one hand, to measure and assess credit risk and minimize default losses in MFIs and, secondly, to promote their competitiveness by reducing interest rates, capital requirements, and credit losses, favoring the financial self-sustainability of these institutions. Social implications. Our findings have the potential to make microfinance institutions fairer and more equitable in their lending practices by providing microcredit with risk-adjusted pricing. Furthermore, our findings can contribute to the design of government policies aimed at promoting the financial and social inclusion of vulnerable people. Originality. The personal characteristics of microcredit clients, mainly reputation and moral solvency, are crucial to the default behavior of microfinance borrowers. These factors should have an impact on the pricing of microcredit. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1693 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Complex of Defense Polypeptides of Wheatgrass (Elytrigia elongata) Associated with Plant Immunity to Biotic and Abiotic Stress Factors

by Anna S. Barashkova, Alexey N. Smirnov and Eugene A. Rogozhin

Plants 2024, 13(17), 2459; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13172459 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Plant defense polypeptides play a crucial role in providing plants with constitutive immunity against various biotic and abiotic stressors. In this study, we explored a complex of proteins from wheatgrass (Elytrigia elongata) spikelets to estimate their role in the plant’s tolerance to various environmental factors. The current research shows that in vitro protein extracts from E. elongata spikelets possess antifungal activity against certain Fusarium species, which are specific cereal pathogens, at concentrations of 1–2 mg/mL. In this study, we reproduced these antifungal activities using a 4 mg/mL extract in artificial fungal infection experiments on wheat grain (Triticum aestivum) under controlled laboratory conditions. Furthermore, the tested extract demonstrated a protective effect on Saccharomyces cerevisiae exposed to hyper-salinity stress at a concentration of 2 mg/mL. A combined scheme of fractionation and structural identification was applied for the estimation of the diversity of defense polypeptides. Defensins, lipid-transfer proteins, hydrolase inhibitors (cereal bifunctional trypsin/alpha-amylase inhibitors from a Bowman–Birk trypsin inhibitor), and high-molecular-weight disease resistance proteins were isolated from the extract. Thus, wheatgrass spikelets appear to be a reservoir of defense polypeptides. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of plant defense proteins and peptides and their involvement in the adaptation to various stress factors, and they reveal the regulatory effect at the ecosystem level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Molecular Biology)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3111 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Total Economic Value of Lands with Civic Uses as a Tool for Their Protection and Enhancement: A Case Study in Tuscany

by Enrico Marone, Nicola Marinelli and Sandro Sacchelli

Land 2024, 13(9), 1416; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13091416 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

This study aims to quantify the economic value of environmental externalities by proposing an approach tailored to areas designated for “civic uses”. These areas fall within the broader category of “collective goods” on which the legislator places particular emphasis, especially in regard to their protection and enhancement. The technique applied in this study is the total economic value (TEV), quantified through a spatialization and modeling of socioeconomic and environmental variables on Geographic Information Systems. The methodology was used for a specific case study area, the forests of Land Association “Bosco dei Bardi” in the Tuscany region of central Italy. This area exhibits the same characteristics and fulfills the same functions as those designated for civic uses. The results demonstrate the importance of providing public decision-makers with appropriate tools to protect and enhance these areas. The results also underscore the economic significance of forest ecosystem services compared to average regional values. The study finally confirms that Land Associations present a promising avenue for revitalizing abandoned territories, consistent with civic use objectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Common Properties for the Sustainable Management of Territories)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 12492 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Development of a Novel Transient Signal Analysis: A Wavelet Transform Approach

by Eduardo Gómez-Luna, Dixon E. Cuadros-Orta, John E. Candelo-Becerra and Juan C. Vasquez

Computation 2024, 12(9), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/computation12090178 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a new method for the analysis of transient signals in the frequency domain based on the Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT). The proposed case study involves test signals measured from an electronic switch considering open and close operations. The source is connected to inductive, resistive, and capacitive loads. Resonance behaviors are introduced and compared with the Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT). Multiple factors, such as reliability, repeatability, high noise attenuation, and the smoothing of the analyzed spectrum, are considered in this study. This proposed study highlights the effectiveness of CWT in signal processing, especially in obtaining a detailed spectrum that reveals the behavior of electrical circuits. Resonance behaviors were analyzed, demonstrating that the signal processing performed by CWT is better for spectrum analysis than DFT. This study shows the potential of CWT to analyze transient electrical signals, specifically for identifying and characterizing the behavior of load connections and disconnections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computational Engineering)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

Oops... you haven't selected anything for export.

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 2000.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (208,574)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI