Journal Description
Applied Sciences
Applied Sciences
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of applied natural sciences published semimonthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Inspec, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Engineering, Multidisciplinary) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Engineering)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our authors say about Applied Sciences.
- Companion journals for Applied Sciences include: Applied Nano, AppliedChem, Applied Biosciences, Virtual Worlds, Spectroscopy Journal and JETA.
Impact Factor:
2.7 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.9 (2022)
Latest Articles
Does the Inclusion of Static or Dynamic Stretching in the Warm-up Routine Improve Jump Height and ROM in Physically Active Individuals? A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3872; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093872 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The effect of different stretches during warm-up on subsequent performance has been studied. However, no reviews are found in which a meta-analytical analysis is used. The aim was to synthesise the effects of different types of stretching included in the warm-up on jumping
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The effect of different stretches during warm-up on subsequent performance has been studied. However, no reviews are found in which a meta-analytical analysis is used. The aim was to synthesise the effects of different types of stretching included in the warm-up on jumping performance and ROM. The Cochrane, Sport Discus, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched. The inclusion criteria included studies analysing the effect of different stretching in the warm-up, on a vertical jump or lower-limb ROM. Sixteen studies were eligible for meta-analysis. In vertical jumping, SS led to a non-significant decrease in jump height (SMD = −0.17 95%CI [−0.39, 0.04]; I2 = 16%; Z = 1.57; p = 0.30), and DS led to a non-significant increase in jump height (SMD = 0.12, 95%CI [−0.05, 0.29]; I2 = 4%; Z = 1.34; p = 0.41). Statistically significant differences were observed between stretches (p = 0.04). Regarding ROM, both stretches showed improvements compared to the control intervention (SS:SMD = 0.40, 95%CI [0.05, 0.74]; SD:SMD = 0.48, 95%CI [0.13, 0.83]). However, no differences were observed (p = 0.73) between static and dynamic stretching. A greater presence of dynamic stretching is recommended in the warm-up of those sports that require a good jump height and range of motion.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine: Latest Advances and Prospects)
Open AccessArticle
A Study on Power Transmission Control for Applying MR Fluid Multi-Plate Clutch to Automobile Power Distribution Device
by
Jin-Young Park, Jae-Hoon Jeon and Young-Choon Kim
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3871; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093871 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study is to design and manufacture a multi-plate clutch system that uses magnetorheological (MR) fluid control to allow for a variable power transmission ratio in power distribution systems. MR fluid is a smart material that enables presenting a solution
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The aim of this study is to design and manufacture a multi-plate clutch system that uses magnetorheological (MR) fluid control to allow for a variable power transmission ratio in power distribution systems. MR fluid is a smart material that enables presenting a solution to the shocks and power loss that occur due to mechanical problems in power distribution systems. As such, the longitudinal and lateral dynamic properties of 4WD (four-wheel drive) vehicles were examined and analyzed to develop an algorithm to control the front/rear power distribution according to the road surface state and driving conditions. To verify the algorithm, the CarSim vehicle dynamics simulation program was adopted to perform experiments to understand the vehicle’s dynamic performance improvements and turning stability via a HILS (Hardware in the Loop) system. In this study, an MR fluid, multi-plate clutch was used that combines a dry clutch and a wet clutch using the characteristics of the MR fluid. Such a clutch was designed to enable continuous and smooth torque transmission by utilizing the strengths of each of the dry and wet clutches. The CarSim vehicle dynamics program was used to conduct the experiments, which were conducted by linking to the manufactured MR fluid clutch experimental device. The experiments investigated the dynamic performance based on the power distribution ratio by performing longitudinal flat, inclined driving and lateral DLC (double lane change) driving. In summary, this study found that it is possible to perform power transmission by applying a current to an MR fluid and forming a magnetic field to change the flow properties of the fluid to control the torque transmission ratio that occurs in an MR fluid clutch.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fluid Science and Technology)
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of the Relationships between Factors Contributing to Marine Casualties
by
Marzena Małyszko
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3870; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093870 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper presents a model for assessing the impact of various factors on maritime accidents. This paper discusses the issue of maritime transport and its risks. The taxonomy of causes and consequences used in maritime transport is explained. Two mathematical principles were used,
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This paper presents a model for assessing the impact of various factors on maritime accidents. This paper discusses the issue of maritime transport and its risks. The taxonomy of causes and consequences used in maritime transport is explained. Two mathematical principles were used, i.e., multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) and principal component analysis (PCA). The analyses were carried out using the Promethee/Gaia method. The connection between causes and accidents constituted the decision problem. The evaluation criteria, a set of actions and preferences, were identified based on the method principles. The results of this research include rankings of causal chains. They were analysed in multi-criteria and single-criteria dimensions. The outcomes are presented numerically and graphically. Such research contributes to improving safety at sea. It allows us to understand how a particular transport system works. Conclusions can be drawn and measures can be initiated to change the situation in the future.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Science and Engineering)
Open AccessArticle
Effects of Occupational Hazards, Musculoskeletal Pain, and Work on the Overall Fatigue, Anxiety, and Depression of Female Nurses
by
Woo Jin Kim and Byung Yong Jeong
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3869; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093869 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Nurses face not only musculoskeletal disorders but also psychological health issues. The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors influencing overall fatigue, anxiety, and depression, respectively, by comprehensively considering work characteristics, exposure to hazards, and the presence of musculoskeletal pain. This
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Nurses face not only musculoskeletal disorders but also psychological health issues. The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors influencing overall fatigue, anxiety, and depression, respectively, by comprehensively considering work characteristics, exposure to hazards, and the presence of musculoskeletal pain. This study used binary logistic regression to analyze factors influencing fatigue, anxiety, and depression, respectively. The independent variables were occupation; age; work experience; healthcare organization; working hours per week; shift type; exposure time to physical, biochemical, and ergonomic hazards; and the presence of back, upper limb, or lower limb pain. The factors influencing overall fatigue were shift type (p = 0.007), exposure to vibration (p = 0.042), awkward posture (p = 0.001), repetitive motion (p = 0.017), and presence of back (p = 0.002) or upper (p < 0.001) limb pain. The factors influencing anxiety were age (p = 0.031), hours worked per week (p = 0.006), performing patient lifting/carrying (p = 0.041), and presence of upper (p = 0.022) or lower (p = 0.039) limb pain. In addition, the factors influencing depression were found to be hours worked per week (p = 0.042), exposure to infection (p = 0.005), and the presence of lower limb pain (p = 0.011). This study found that musculoskeletal pain has a significant impact on psychological health problems, suggesting that integrated management of musculoskeletal pain and psychological health problems may be effective in addressing health problems in the nursing profession.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Traffic Organisation in the Kiss-and-Fly Zone of Kraków Airport: Eye-Tracking Study
by
Anton Pashkevich, Adrian Piegza, Antoni Krawiec, Arkadiusz Bylica and Matus Sucha
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3868; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093868 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
When choosing the way to come to airports, quite a large number of passengers prefer when they are dropped off/picked up at airports using kiss-and-fly (K&F) zones. Such a travel option is associated with a special traffic organisation on the airport ground access.
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When choosing the way to come to airports, quite a large number of passengers prefer when they are dropped off/picked up at airports using kiss-and-fly (K&F) zones. Such a travel option is associated with a special traffic organisation on the airport ground access. As there are no common regulations or standards when creating such a complex infrastructure object, it could be a challenge for drivers when searching and moving through it. Therefore, the main aim of the presented study was to assess and verify the eye-tracking technique as an objective tool, which can allow one to identify and estimate confusion points met by road users when using such an object. The field tests with 23 drivers were conducted in the K&F zone of Kraków Airport, and the data analysis focused on the traffic organisation and road signage as its key and integral parts. The eye-tracking approach allowed us to clearly find confusing situations for drivers as well as explain their reasons confirming its suitability and usefulness for the declared aim. Also, the perception of standardised and unstandardised signage of the K&F zone as well as the influence of route familiarity for drivers were discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transportation in the 21st Century: New Vision on Future Mobility)
Open AccessArticle
Computer Vision System Based on the Analysis of Gait Features for Fall Risk Assessment in Elderly People
by
Rogelio Cedeno-Moreno, Diana L. Malagon-Barillas, Luis A. Morales-Hernandez, Mayra P. Gonzalez-Hernandez and Irving A. Cruz-Albarran
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3867; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093867 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Up to 30% of people over the age of 60 are at high risk of falling, which can cause injury, aggravation of pre-existing conditions, or even death, with up to 684,000 fatal falls reported annually. This is due to the difficult task of
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Up to 30% of people over the age of 60 are at high risk of falling, which can cause injury, aggravation of pre-existing conditions, or even death, with up to 684,000 fatal falls reported annually. This is due to the difficult task of establishing a preventive system for the care of the elderly, both in the hospital environment and at home. Therefore, this work proposes the development of an intelligent vision system that uses a novel methodology to infer fall risk from the analysis of kinetic and spatiotemporal gait parameters. In general, each patient is assessed using the Tinetti scale. Then, the computer vision system estimates the biomechanics of walking and obtains gait features, such as stride length, cadence, period, and range of motion. Subsequently, this information serves as input to an artificial neural network that diagnoses the risk of falling. Ninety-six participants took part in the study. The system’s performance was 99.1% accuracy, 94.4% precision, 96.9% recall, 99.4% specificity, and 95.5% F1-Score. Thus, the proposed system can evaluate the fall risk assessment, which could benefit clinics, hospitals, and even homes by allowing them to assess in real time whether a person is at high risk of falling to provide timely assistance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Sensors for Postural or Gait Stability Assessment)
Open AccessArticle
Relationship between Preoperative Maxillomandibular Transverse Discrepancy and Post-Surgical Stability in Class II Malocclusion
by
Chae-kyung Lee, Kyung-Ho Kim, Kee-Joon Lee, Jung-Yul Cha, Sang-Sun Han and Hyung-Seog Yu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3866; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093866 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between the presurgical maxillomandibular transverse index and post-surgical stability one year after mandibular advancement. For the material and methods, twenty-two subjects who were treated with mandibular advancement were enrolled in this study. Postsurgical
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The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between the presurgical maxillomandibular transverse index and post-surgical stability one year after mandibular advancement. For the material and methods, twenty-two subjects who were treated with mandibular advancement were enrolled in this study. Postsurgical stability was defined as the horizontal mandibular position change of <2 mm in lateral cephalogram 1 year after surgery. Subjects were divided into two groups according to the maintenance of postsurgical stability: a stable group (group S) and a less stable group (group LS). Presurgical maxillomandibular transverse index was determined as Yonsei transverse index (YTI) one month before surgery. A logistic analysis was performed on the postsurgical stability according to the YTI value. The presurgical, post-expansion target YTI value was obtained using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. There were no notable differences in the baseline characteristics of the two groups except for vertical positions of point A, B, and gender distribution. Before surgery, however, there was a significant difference in YTI at both the fossa and CR level between the groups. The amount of mandibular advancement did not show a significant difference. The odds ratio for YTI was 0.35 (p = 0.024). The prediction of stability of presurgical YTI yielded an area under the ROC curve of 0.88. The cut-off value for YTI was 1.45 mm. It can thus be concluded that presurgical transverse index showed a correlation with postsurgical stability, and correcting it in the presurgical phase to a certain level appears to aid in securing postsurgical stability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biotechnology Applied to Orthodontic TSADs and CBCT)
Open AccessEditorial
Wireless Communication: Applications Security and Reliability—Present and Future
by
Ireneusz Kubiak
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3865; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093865 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Information security is of great importance nowadays. This is related to the widespread use of new technologies in the development of long-distance communications and the use of increasingly “faster” signals. Information security can be considered in many areas of information processing, including wireless
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Information security is of great importance nowadays. This is related to the widespread use of new technologies in the development of long-distance communications and the use of increasingly “faster” signals. Information security can be considered in many areas of information processing, including wireless systems and wired systems that are based on electronic devices. Each of such devices is a source of electromagnetic disturbances but may also be sensitive to such disturbances. This Special Issue titled “Wireless Communication: Applications, Security, and Reliability” covers a broad spectrum of information security related to cybersecurity, cryptography, and electromagnetic protection. In each case, the information protection solutions used must keep up with the development of technologies used in information processing. The broad thematic area of this Special Issue was intended to encourage scientists and researchers to present their research results and the goals that this research was intended to serve. At the same time, it could allow for the exchange of knowledge and experience gained during the work on information security.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Identification of High-Order Nonlinear Coupled Systems Using a Data-Driven Approach
by
Rodolfo Daniel Velázquez-Sánchez, Jonathan Omega Escobedo-Alva, Raymundo Peña-García, Ricardo Tapia-Herrera and Jesús Alberto Meda-Campaña
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3864; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093864 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Most works related to the identification of mathematical nonlinear systems suggest that such approaches can always be directly applied to any nonlinear system. This misconception is greatly discouraging when the obtained results are not expected. Thus, the current work hypothesizes that the more
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Most works related to the identification of mathematical nonlinear systems suggest that such approaches can always be directly applied to any nonlinear system. This misconception is greatly discouraging when the obtained results are not expected. Thus, the current work hypothesizes that the more information one has about the mathematical structure of the model, the most precise the identification result. Therefore, a variant of the Sparse Identification of Nonlinear Dynamics (SINDY) approach is presented to obtain the full mathematical nonlinear model of a high-order system with coupled dynamics, namely, a commercial quadcopter. Furthermore, due to its high sensitivity to inputs, a control system is devised using the identified model to stabilize the quadcopter. This illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed identification method.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computing and Artificial Intelligence)
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Open AccessArticle
Investigation of the Effects of Vortex Isolation Plates with Different Opening Ratios and Sizes on Vortex-Induced Vibration
by
Hanxin He, Jiaying Wang and Feng Wang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3863; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093863 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Twin-box girders are a good option for long-span cable-bearing bridges due to their excellent stability. Nonetheless, the girder’s slots may generate vortex-induced vibrations (VIVs). Fortunately, appropriate aerodynamic measures can effectively suppress the VIVs in twin-box girders while reducing costs. To examine the effects
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Twin-box girders are a good option for long-span cable-bearing bridges due to their excellent stability. Nonetheless, the girder’s slots may generate vortex-induced vibrations (VIVs). Fortunately, appropriate aerodynamic measures can effectively suppress the VIVs in twin-box girders while reducing costs. To examine the effects of vortex isolation plates with varying aperture diameters and opening ratios on the VIVs, a segment model wind tunnel test was conducted. The results demonstrated that a reduction in the opening ratio improved the performance under heaving VIVs, but there was no discernible trend under torsional vibrations. It was also discovered that the opening size significantly influences the length of the lock-in region of torsional vibrations. Furthermore, heaving VIVs have a substantial correlation with both of the girder’s boxes, while torsional vibrations are mostly connected with the downstream section.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Civil Engineering)
Open AccessArticle
Effects of Flaxseed Mucilage Admixture on Ordinary Portland Cement Fresh and Hardened States
by
Haris Brevet, Rose-Marie Dheilly, Nicolas Montrelay, Koffi Justin Houessou, Emmanuel Petit and Adeline Goullieux
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3862; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093862 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
France is Europe’s leading producer of flaxseed. This seed is rich in omega-3, energy, and protein for animals, but it also contains anti-nutritional factors such as mucilage. Thus, mucilage must be removed and could be used as a bio-admixture in cementitious materials development,
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France is Europe’s leading producer of flaxseed. This seed is rich in omega-3, energy, and protein for animals, but it also contains anti-nutritional factors such as mucilage. Thus, mucilage must be removed and could be used as a bio-admixture in cementitious materials development, reducing the environmental impact of cementitious materials. This study aims to valorize the usage of flaxseed mucilage (FM) in ordinary Portland cement. FM caused macroscopic and microscopic changes in the materials studied. The higher the concentration, the greater the changes were. The admixed samples showed an exponentially concentration-dependent delay in setting. FM degradation products induced by the cementitious conditions accentuated the delay. However, this delay in setting did not affect the hydrates’ growth in the material. In fact, FM showed a “delay accelerator” behavior, meaning that once hydration began, it was accelerated as compared to a reference. Macroscopically, FM induced significant flocculation, increasing material porosity and carbonation. Consequently, bulk density and thermal conductivity were reduced. At the highest amount of FM admixture (0.75% w/w), FM allowed bridge formation between Ca(OH)2 crystals, which can improve the mechanical properties of mortars. Because FM is highly hygroscopic, it has the capability to absorb water and subsequently release it gradually and under controlled conditions into the cement matrix. Therefore, regulation of water diffusion from the mucilage may induce the self-healing properties responsible for mechanical properties similar to that of the reference in the medium to long term.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development, Characterization, Application and Recycling of Novel Construction Materials)
Open AccessArticle
Research on Mechanical Properties of Steel–Polypropylene Fiber-Reinforced Concrete after High-Temperature Treatments
by
Xinggang Shen, Xia Li, Lei Liu, Xinzuo Chen and Jun Du
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3861; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093861 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
A mechanical property experiment was carried out on steel-polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete after elevated temperatures by using a 50 mm diameter SHPB apparatus. The regulations of compressive strength, elastic modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and other mechanical properties under six heating temperature levels (normal temperature, 100
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A mechanical property experiment was carried out on steel-polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete after elevated temperatures by using a 50 mm diameter SHPB apparatus. The regulations of compressive strength, elastic modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and other mechanical properties under six heating temperature levels (normal temperature, 100 °C, 200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C, and 800 °C) and three impact pressures (0.3 MPa, 0.4 MPa, 0.5 MPa) were studied. Using ANSYS/LS-DYNA 19.0 numerical simulation software and LS-PrePost post-processing software, numerical simulation analysis was conducted on the dynamic Hopkinson uniaxial impact compression and uniaxial dynamic impact splitting mechanical experiments of C40 plain concrete and steel–polypropylene hybrid fiber concrete. The results show that the dynamic compressive strength of hybrid fiber concrete with the optimal dosage reaches its maximum at a temperature group of 200 °C, and the dynamic compressive strength of hybrid fiber concrete with the optimal dosage increases by 97.1% compared to C40 plain concrete at a temperature group of 800 °C. The impact waveform and stress–strain curve results of the numerical simulation are very similar to the experimental results. The errors in calculating the peak stress and peak strain are within 6%, which can truly and accurately simulate the static mechanical properties and failure process of hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Complex Rock Mechanics Problems and Solutions)
Open AccessArticle
Theoretical Analysis of the Mechanical Performance of Implantable Devices Used in the Treatment of Vertebral Compression Fractures (Kyphoplasty, SpineJack, Tri-Blade) and a Proposal of a Two-Arm Device with Increased Performance
by
Iulius Stroe, Ionel Simion and Elena Ioniță
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3860; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093860 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this study, an analysis of the behavior of the vertebra during the use of KP and SJ was carried out to understand the kinematics of the movement of the fragments of the vertebra during action and the forces generated in the use
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In this study, an analysis of the behavior of the vertebra during the use of KP and SJ was carried out to understand the kinematics of the movement of the fragments of the vertebra during action and the forces generated in the use of the two methods. For this analysis, the results published by various authors were used. Only the principle of the mechanical actuation of the vertebra fragments was analyzed, without addressing other aspects such as the method of cement introduction, the type of cement used, PMMA hardening times, the duration of the operation, the patient’s recovery time, etc. In addition to the analysis, the authors propose a device that eliminates the inconveniences observed in the two analyzed devices and promises to significantly improve the restoration of the vertebra’s height and, consequently, the patient’s symptoms. The observations show that the type of mechanism articulated at one end has both robustness and greater efficiency in this type of actuation. It is further shown that from this category, the mechanism with two arms (Two-Arm Device) proposed by the authors is superior to the existing ones in terms of robustness and efficiency. The perspectives of TAD are represented by the improvement of the vertebral statics and, consequently, the symptoms of the patients.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Quantitative and Qualitative Determination of Polyphenolic Compounds in Castanea sativa Leaves and Evaluation of Their Biological Activities
by
Natalia Żurek, Agata Maria Pawłowska, Karolina Pycia, Leszek Potocki and Ireneusz Tomasz Kapusta
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3859; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093859 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the polyphenol profile of Castanea sativa leaf methanolic extract and further evaluate its biological activities in vitro. After purification with an RP-18 resin, the extract was assessed for its polyphenol profile by UPLC-PDA-MS/MS, as well
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The aim of the study was to evaluate the polyphenol profile of Castanea sativa leaf methanolic extract and further evaluate its biological activities in vitro. After purification with an RP-18 resin, the extract was assessed for its polyphenol profile by UPLC-PDA-MS/MS, as well as for the antioxidant potential (ABTS, CUPRAC, ChA, ROS scavenging methods), anticancer, antiobesity, antidiabetic and antimicrobial potential. Eighteen polyphenols were identified and the dominant compounds were chestatin followed by quercetin 3-O-glucoside. The total phenolic content of the extract showed a value of 1426.55 mg/100 g d.w. The obtained preparation showed the ability to scavenge O2•− (0.067 mg/mL) and OH• (0.207 mg/mL) radicals and had a stronger anti-obesity than anti-diabetic effect. Additionally, this extract exhibited a strong anticancer activity against the Caco-2 line (153.54 µg/mL), with anti-migratory and anti-proliferative activity. In turn, among the tested strains, the highest activity was demonstrated against Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, the effects demonstrated were strongly dependent on the content of polyphenols. In conclusion, C. sativa is a promising source of natural antioxidant, antibacterial, antiobesity, antidiabetic and chemopreventive compounds for food-pharma industry; however, further experimental studies are needed to validate its pharmacological properties.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activity, Chemical Characterization and Contaminants of Plants and Waste)
Open AccessArticle
Speech Puzzles (Spuzzles): Engaging the Reduced, Causal, and Semantic Listening Modes for Puzzle Design in Audio Games
by
Emmanouel Rovithis, Agnes Papadopoulou, Vasileios Komianos, Varvara Garneli and Andreas Floros
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3858; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093858 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper proposes a novel approach to audio game design by introducing the concept of speech puzzles (spuzzles) to describe the utilisation of recorded voice for the creation of audio puzzles in ways that challenge players’ different listening modes. In the fields of
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This paper proposes a novel approach to audio game design by introducing the concept of speech puzzles (spuzzles) to describe the utilisation of recorded voice for the creation of audio puzzles in ways that challenge players’ different listening modes. In the fields of audio games and audio-interactive applications, speech serves instructive, descriptive, narrative, and in some cases—in the form of hints or quizzes—gameplay purposes by addressing users through language. The suggested approach of spuzzles extends this potential by including, besides encoded meaning, the acoustic properties of sound, thus engaging the user’s causal and reduced listening modes in parallel with the semantic listening mode. An audio game consisting of four inherently different spuzzles was designed as proof of concept and tested by seven third-year students of Audiovisual Arts, who elaborated on their experience through a focus group semi-structured discussion. Despite their difficulty, the spuzzles were well accepted by most of the participants (5/7), whereas all participants agreed on their acoustic richness, need for concentration, and independence from pre-existing musical knowledge. Therefore, the authors suggest that the proposed design approach could serve as a paradigm for future research in the design of complex audio-based game mechanics.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Audio Interaction)
Open AccessArticle
Global Buckling Resistance of Cold-Formed Steel Beams with Omega-Shaped Sections
by
Rita Peres, José Carvalho, Jean Antonio Emerick, Luís Macedo, José Luiz Rangel Paes and José Miguel Castro
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3857; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093857 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The absence of analytical expressions in current codes for evaluating the critical moment for lateral–torsional buckling of cold-formed beams with omega-shaped sections presents a fundamental challenge when assessing their resistance to global buckling. In response to this challenge, a comparative study was conducted
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The absence of analytical expressions in current codes for evaluating the critical moment for lateral–torsional buckling of cold-formed beams with omega-shaped sections presents a fundamental challenge when assessing their resistance to global buckling. In response to this challenge, a comparative study was conducted to explore various approaches for calculating the critical moment. This involved both analytical and numerical analyses, using different methods available in codes and computational tools. The analytical analysis followed the Effective Width Method, employing the expression proposed in ENV 1993-1-1:1992, which is commonly used for evaluating the critical lateral–torsional moment of hot-rolled profiles. Numerical analyses were then performed using the ABAQUS v6.13, GBTUL v2.0, and CUFSM v5.05 software packages. The ABAQUS model, validated with results obtained from an experimental campaign, serves as the reference model. Upon assessing the bending moment resistances according to European, Brazilian, and American standards, consistency was found among these standards. However, it became evident that using the analytical expression proposed for hot-rolled profiles is inadequate for evaluating the critical lateral–torsional moment of CFS omega-shaped profiles. Conversely, the agreement between the ABAQUS, GBTUL, and CUFSM results suggests their utility as reliable tools for estimating the elastic critical lateral–torsional buckling moment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Steel Structural Stability in Civil Engineering)
Open AccessReview
Computational Fluid Dynamics–Discrete Phase Method Simulations in Process Engineering: A Review of Recent Progress
by
Xiaolian Yang, Te Xi, Yebo Qin, Hui Zhang and Yongwei Wang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3856; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093856 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Complex fluid–solid systems generally exist in process engineering. The cognition of complex flow systems depends on numerical and experimental methods. The computational fluid dynamics–discrete phase method simulation based on coarsening technology has potential application prospects in industrial-scale equipment. This review outlines the computational
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Complex fluid–solid systems generally exist in process engineering. The cognition of complex flow systems depends on numerical and experimental methods. The computational fluid dynamics–discrete phase method simulation based on coarsening technology has potential application prospects in industrial-scale equipment. This review outlines the computational fluid dynamics–discrete phase method and its application in several typical types of process engineering. In the process research, more attention is paid to the dense condition and multiphase flow. Furthermore, the CFD-DPM and its extension method for comprehensive hydrodynamics modeling are introduced. Subsequently, the current challenges and future trends of the computational fluid dynamics–discrete phase method are proposed.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Simulation and Experimental Study of the Suppression of Low-Frequency Flow Noise Signals by a Placoid-Scale Skin
by
Mingxin Cheng, Zhijuan Zhu, Bin Wu, Lingyun Ye and Kaichen Song
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3855; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093855 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper addresses the challenge of mitigating low-frequency flow noise signals in autonomous underwater vehicles through the optimization of a placoid-scale skin. Drawing inspiration from the bio-inspired surface features of cylindrical shell structures, an enhanced design of placoid-scale skin is developed using 3D
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This paper addresses the challenge of mitigating low-frequency flow noise signals in autonomous underwater vehicles through the optimization of a placoid-scale skin. Drawing inspiration from the bio-inspired surface features of cylindrical shell structures, an enhanced design of placoid-scale skin is developed using 3D printing technology. This improved structure effectively reduced boundary layer vortices and wake intensity, thereby contributing to the suppression of low-frequency flow noise signals. Experimental results demonstrate that the notable reduction in low-frequency flow noise within the frequency range of 0–500 Hz, with average noise reduction of approximately 5 dB observed at 150 Hz. This reduction is validated by a combination of numerical simulations and experimental testing, confirming the efficacy of the optimized placoid-scale skin in attenuating the low-frequency flow noise associated with uniformly advancing turbulent boundary layers underwater.
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(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
Open AccessArticle
Intermonitor Variability of Garmin Vivofit® Jr. Wristband
by
Gema Díaz-Quesada, José María Gimenez-Egido, Jonathan Connor, Enrique Ortega-Toro and Gema Torres-Luque
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3854; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093854 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of Garmin Vivofit® Jr. physical activity (PA) wristbands during daily life physical activities. Six wristbands were randomly selected from a stock of twenty-four. The wristbands were worn by a single four-year-old
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The main objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of Garmin Vivofit® Jr. physical activity (PA) wristbands during daily life physical activities. Six wristbands were randomly selected from a stock of twenty-four. The wristbands were worn by a single four-year-old participant, with three on the right wrist area and three on the left wrist area. To assess device reliability under laboratory conditions on a treadmill (Powerjog, model JM200, SportEngineering Ltd., Birmingham, UK), the participant wore the six wristbands while performing five work conditions: sitting and standing (30 times per minute, controlled by a metronome), walking at 3 km/h, walking at 4 km/h, running at 5 km/h, and running at 6 km/h. Throughout the six minutes, variables related to physical activity provided by the device, step volume, and minutes of physical activity were recorded using the specific application of the wristband (Garmin International Inc., Olathe, KS, USA). The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were high for all six wristbands with each other, for both the number of steps taken (ICC = 0.991–0.998) and the number of minutes of PA (ICC = 0.892–0.977). The critical alpha value of the Cusum test was highest at.050 for all wristband associations. In conclusion, good reliability was found among the six wristbands, which could be adopted for field-based research to quantify physical activities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Biomechanics and Sports Technology)
Open AccessArticle
Vibration Control with Reinforcement Learning Based on Multi-Reward Lightweight Networks
by
Yucheng Shu, Chaogang He, Lihong Qiao, Bin Xiao and Weisheng Li
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3853; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093853 (registering DOI) - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper proposes a reinforcement learning method using a deep residual shrinkage network based on multi-reward priority experience playback for high-frequency and high-dimensional continuous vibration control. Firstly, we keep the underlying equipment unchanged and construct a vibration system simulator using FIR filters to
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This paper proposes a reinforcement learning method using a deep residual shrinkage network based on multi-reward priority experience playback for high-frequency and high-dimensional continuous vibration control. Firstly, we keep the underlying equipment unchanged and construct a vibration system simulator using FIR filters to ensure the complete fidelity of the physical model. Then, by interacting with the simulator using our proposed algorithm, we identify the optimal control strategy, which is directly applied to real-world scenarios in the form of a neural network. A multi-reward mechanism is proposed to assist the lightweight network to find a near-optimal control strategy, and a priority experience playback mechanism is used to prioritize the data to accelerate the convergence speed of the neural network and improve the data utilization efficiency. At the same time, the deep residual shrinkage network is introduced to realize adaptive denoising and lightweightness of the neural network. The experimental results indicate that under narrowband white-noise excitation ranging from 0 to 100 Hz, the DDPG algorithm achieved a vibration reduction effect of 12.728 dB, while our algorithm achieved a vibration reduction effect of 20.240 dB. Meanwhile, the network parameters were reduced by more than 7.5 times.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Vibro-Acoustic Technology: Intelligent Algorithms, Smart Materials and Dynamics)
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