Journal Description
Sci
Sci
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all research fields published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Multidisciplinary)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 38.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 6.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first 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.
Latest Articles
Short-Term Biochemical Biomarkers of Stress in the Oyster Magallana angulata Exposed to Gymnodinium catenatum and Skeletonema marinoi
Sci 2023, 5(3), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5030030 - 17 Jul 2023
Abstract
Bivalves accumulate toxins produced by microalgae, thus becoming harmful for humans. However, little information is available about their toxicity to the bivalve itself. In the present work, the physiological stress and damage after the ingestion of toxic dinoflagellate species (Gymnodinium catenatum)
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Bivalves accumulate toxins produced by microalgae, thus becoming harmful for humans. However, little information is available about their toxicity to the bivalve itself. In the present work, the physiological stress and damage after the ingestion of toxic dinoflagellate species (Gymnodinium catenatum) and a diatom species (Skeletonema marinoi, which is non-toxic to humans but may be to grazers) in the oyster Magallana angulata are evaluated against a control treatment fed with the chlorophyte Tetraselmis sp. Oysters were exposed for two hours to a concentration of 4 × 104 cells/L of G. catenatum and 2 × 107 cells/L of S. marinoi. The biomarkers superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-Transferase, total Ubiquitin (Ubi) and Acetylcholinesterase (AchE) were assessed. The exposure of M. angulata to G. catenatum lead to a reduction in SOD and AchE activity and ubiquitin concentrations when compared to the control treatment. Moreover, it increased CAT activity in the adductor muscle, and maintained its activity in the other tissues tested. This may be related to the combination of reduced metabolism with the deployment of detoxification processes. S. marinoi also lead to a decrease in all biomarkers tested in the gills and digestive glands. Therefore, both species tested caused physiological alterations in M. angulata after two hours of exposure.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biology Research and Life Sciences)
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Open AccessEditorial
Implementing Smart Services in Small- and Medium-Sized Manufacturing Companies: On the Progress of Servitization in the Era of Industry 4.0
Sci 2023, 5(3), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5030029 - 12 Jul 2023
Abstract
For a long time, the challenge has been to provide products and services that precisely match the preferences, habits, and needs of users [...]
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0 – The Global Industrial Revolution: Achievements, Obstacles and Research Needs for the Digital Transformation of Industry)
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Open AccessArticle
COVID-19 as a Jump Start for Industry 4.0? Motivations and Core Areas of Pandemic-Related Investments in Digital Technologies at German Firms
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, , , , , and
Sci 2023, 5(3), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5030028 - 07 Jul 2023
Abstract
Academic studies prior to the pandemic rather emphasized that the progression towards Industry 4.0 happened in an incremental manner. However, the extraordinary circumstances of the pandemic have led to considerable investments that were widely interpreted as a (generalized) digitalization push. However, little is
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Academic studies prior to the pandemic rather emphasized that the progression towards Industry 4.0 happened in an incremental manner. However, the extraordinary circumstances of the pandemic have led to considerable investments that were widely interpreted as a (generalized) digitalization push. However, little is known about the character of such investments and their effects. The goal of this contribution is to provide an empirically based overview of recent investment in digital technologies in six economic sectors of the German economy: mechanical engineering, chemicals, automotives, logistics, healthcare, and financial services. Based on 36 case studies and a survey at 540 companies, we investigate the following questions: 1. How much did the COVID-19 pandemic reduce existing obstacles for investments in digitalization measures? 2. Is there a universal digitalization push due to the COVID-19 pandemic that differs from the trajectory before the pandemic? The results show that the pandemic affected investment in an unequal manner. It was driven by the immediate need to sustain business operations through the virtualization of communication among employees and with external partners. However, there was less dynamism in shop-floor-related digitalization, as it was less related to epidemiological concerns and is more long-term in nature.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0 – The Global Industrial Revolution: Achievements, Obstacles and Research Needs for the Digital Transformation of Industry)
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Open AccessReview
Sensory and Cognitive Malingering: Studies and Tests
Sci 2023, 5(3), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5030027 - 06 Jul 2023
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Malingering relates to intentionally pretending or exaggerating physical or psychologic symptoms to gain an external incentive, such as avoiding work, law prosecution or military service, or seeking financial compensation from insurance companies. Accordingly, various techniques have been developed in recent years by the
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Malingering relates to intentionally pretending or exaggerating physical or psychologic symptoms to gain an external incentive, such as avoiding work, law prosecution or military service, or seeking financial compensation from insurance companies. Accordingly, various techniques have been developed in recent years by the scientific community to address this challenge. In this review, we discuss malingering within visual, auditory and olfactory domains, as well as in cognitive disorders and psychopathology. We provide a general, critical, narrative overview on the intermodal criteria for differential diagnosis, and discuss validated psychophysical tools and electrophysiology-based tests for its detection, as well as insights for future directions.
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Open AccessArticle
Transcriptomics Analysis of Tomato Ripening Regulated by Carbon Dioxide
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, , , , , and
Sci 2023, 5(3), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5030026 - 30 Jun 2023
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Tomatoes are a perishable and seasonal fruit with a high economic impact. Carbon dioxide (CO2), among several other reagents, is used to extend the shelf-life and preserve the quality of tomatoes during refrigeration or packaging. To obtain insight into CO2
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Tomatoes are a perishable and seasonal fruit with a high economic impact. Carbon dioxide (CO2), among several other reagents, is used to extend the shelf-life and preserve the quality of tomatoes during refrigeration or packaging. To obtain insight into CO2 stress during tomato ripening, tomatoes at the late green mature stage were conditioned with one of two CO2 delivery methods: 5% CO2 for 14 days (T1) or 100% CO2 for 3 h (T2). Conventional physical and chemical characterization found that CO2 induced by either T1 or T2 delayed tomato ripening in terms of color change, firmness, and carbohydrate dissolution. However, T1 had longer-lasting effects. Furthermore, ethylene production was suppressed by CO2 in T1, and promoted in T2. These physical observations were further evaluated via RNA-Seq analysis at the whole-genome level, including genes involved in ethylene synthesis, signal transduction, and carotenoid biosynthesis. Transcriptomics analysis revealed that the introduction of CO2 via the T1 method downregulated genes related to fruit ripening; in contrast, T2 upregulated the gene encoding for ACS6, the enzyme responsible for S1 ethylene synthesis, even though there was a large amount of ethylene present, indicating that T1 and T2 regulate tomato ripening via different mechanisms. Quantitative real-time PCR assays (qRT-PCR) were used for validation, which substantiated the RNA-Seq data. The results of the present research provide insight into gene regulation by CO2 during tomato ripening at the whole-genome level.
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Open AccessArticle
Conventional Platinum Metal Implants Provoke Restenosis Responses in Atherogenic but Not Healthy Arteries
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, , , , , , and
Sci 2023, 5(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020025 - 19 Jun 2023
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Platinum-containing stents are commonly used in humans with hypercholesterolemia, whereas preclinical stent evaluation has commonly been performed in healthy animal models, providing inadequate information about stent performance under hypercholesterolemic conditions. In this investigation, we used an ApoE−/− mouse model to test the
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Platinum-containing stents are commonly used in humans with hypercholesterolemia, whereas preclinical stent evaluation has commonly been performed in healthy animal models, providing inadequate information about stent performance under hypercholesterolemic conditions. In this investigation, we used an ApoE−/− mouse model to test the impact of hypercholesterolemia on neointima formation on platinum-containing implants. We implanted 125 μm diameter platinum wires into the abdominal aortas of ApoE−/− and ApoE+/+ mice for 6 months, followed by histological and immunofluorescence examination of neointimal size and composition. It was found that ApoE−/− mice developed neointimas with four times larger area and ten times greater thickness than ApoE+/+ counterparts. Neointimas developed in the ApoE−/− mice also contained higher amounts of lipids quantified as having 370 times more coverage compared to ApoE+/+, a 3-fold increase in SMCs, and a 22-fold increase in macrophages. A confluent endothelium had regenerated in both mouse strains. The ApoE−/− mice experienced luminal reductions more closely resembling clinically relevant restenosis in humans. Overall, the response to platinum arterial implants was highly dependent upon the atherogenic environment.
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Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Spatial Variations in Pesticide, Heavy Metal, and Selenium Residues in Honey Bee (Apis mellifera L.) Products
by
and
Sci 2023, 5(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020024 - 06 Jun 2023
Abstract
Apis mellifera L. is considered one of the most important pollinators in nature. Unfortunately, in addition to other insect species, honey bee populations are decreasing at an alarming rate, urging researchers to investigate the causes and stressors that precipitated this decline. This study
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Apis mellifera L. is considered one of the most important pollinators in nature. Unfortunately, in addition to other insect species, honey bee populations are decreasing at an alarming rate, urging researchers to investigate the causes and stressors that precipitated this decline. This study focuses on chemical stressors that are found to affect bee populations. We used pollen and honey samples to examine the variations in pesticides, selenium, and heavy metals in two different landscapes: urban and agricultural areas of northeastern Colorado, USA. Subsequently, we extrapolated the risks of these toxins’ residues to Apis spp. Based on the current literature, we found no spatial variations in metal and selenium concentrations in the pollen and honey samples collected from urban and agricultural areas. Moreover, we observed no spatial variations in pesticide concentrations in pollen and honey samples. Based on the previous literature and a comparison of the residues of heavy metals, selenium, and pesticides in our pollen and honey samples, we found that the heavy metal and selenium residues in some honey and pollen likely pose a severe health risk to honey bees. Although the levels of pesticide residues were below the documented thresholds of risk, we consider the possibility of synergistic chemical impacts. Our findings support future efforts to investigate the health risks associated with multiple-factor combinations.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Health)
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Open AccessReview
A Survey on EEG Data Analysis Software
Sci 2023, 5(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020023 - 01 Jun 2023
Cited by 2
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Electroencephalography (EEG) is a mechanism to understand the brain’s functioning by analyzing brain electrical signals. More recently, it has been more commonly used in studies that are focused on the causation and effect of dementia. More tools are now available to gather EEG
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Electroencephalography (EEG) is a mechanism to understand the brain’s functioning by analyzing brain electrical signals. More recently, it has been more commonly used in studies that are focused on the causation and effect of dementia. More tools are now available to gather EEG data. This brings about the challenge of understanding brain signals, which involves signal processing. Professionals with an electrical engineering background are very comfortable analyzing EEG data. Still, scientists in computer science and related fields need a source that can identify all the tools available and the process of analyzing the data. This paper deals specifically with the existing EEG data analysis tools and the processes involved in analyzing the EEG data using these tools. Furthermore, the paper goes in-depth into identifying the tools and the mechanisms of data processing techniques. In addition, it lists a set of definitions required for a better understanding of EEG data analysis, which can be challenging. The purpose of this paper is to serve as a reference for not only scientists that are new to EEG data analysis but also seasoned scientists that are looking for a specific data component in EEG and can go straight to the section of the paper that deals with the tool that they are using.
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Open AccessConcept Paper
Digital Factory Transformation from a Servitization Perspective: Fields of Action for Developing Internal Smart Services
Sci 2023, 5(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020022 - 16 May 2023
Abstract
In recent years, a complex set of dynamic developments driven by both the economy and the emergence of digital technologies has put pressure on manufacturing companies to adapt. The concept of servitization, i.e., the shift from a product-centric to a service-centric value creation
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In recent years, a complex set of dynamic developments driven by both the economy and the emergence of digital technologies has put pressure on manufacturing companies to adapt. The concept of servitization, i.e., the shift from a product-centric to a service-centric value creation logic, can help manufacturing companies stabilize their business in such volatile times. Existing academic literature investigates the potential and challenges of servitization and the associated development of data-based services, so-called smart services, with a view to external market performance. However, with the increasing use of digital technologies in manufacturing and the development of internal smart services based on them, we argue that the existing insights on external servitization are also of interest for internal transformation. In this paper, we identify key findings from service literature, apply them to digital factory transformation, and structure them into six fields of action along the dimensions of people, technology, and organization. As a result, recommendations for designing digital factory transformation in manufacturing companies are derived from the perspective of servitization and developing internal smart services.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0 – The Global Industrial Revolution: Achievements, Obstacles and Research Needs for the Digital Transformation of Industry)
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Open AccessEssay
Hoarding Disorder: A Sociological Perspective
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, , , , and
Sci 2023, 5(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020021 - 11 May 2023
Abstract
Hoarding disorder (HD) is a recently recognized psychiatric condition, now classified under the category of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It leads to an unwarranted attachment to material possessions, such
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Hoarding disorder (HD) is a recently recognized psychiatric condition, now classified under the category of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It leads to an unwarranted attachment to material possessions, such that the individual is unable to separate themselves from them. There is still a lack of awareness of the critical sociological implications of this disorder, which is too often considered a purely health-related issue. This article endeavors to frame hoarding disorder from a unique socio-criminological and legal perspective, proposing an alternative approach to HD that considers it not only as a mental disorder, but also as a genuine societal issue. We also explore potential avenues for protection, considering both the well-being of individuals with this mental disorder and the communities in which individuals suffering from HD reside. This paper presents a fresh perspective on HD, aiming to delineate its impact and significance as an affliction affecting both individuals and society at large.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sports Science and Medicine)
Open AccessCommunication
Incidence and Predictors of Soft Tissue Injuries during Basic Combat Training
Sci 2023, 5(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020020 - 06 May 2023
Abstract
Strenuous exercise, such as military training, is known to demand a high degree of physical performance and to cause injuries. The present study aimed to (a) monitor the incidence of soft tissue injuries (blisters, contusions, and lacerations) among cadets during Basic Combat Training
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Strenuous exercise, such as military training, is known to demand a high degree of physical performance and to cause injuries. The present study aimed to (a) monitor the incidence of soft tissue injuries (blisters, contusions, and lacerations) among cadets during Basic Combat Training (BCT), and (b) identify possible risk factors for these injuries. Participants were 315 first-grade cadets (women, n = 28; men, n = 287), recruited from the Hellenic Army Academy. Seven weeks of BCT resulted in an overall cadet injury rate of 24.1% (n = 76) with 13.7% being injured one time, whereas 10.4% of participants were injured 2–6 times. The incidence of injuries was 2.9 soft tissue injuries per 1000 training hours. The logistic regression model using sex, being an athlete, nationality, weight, height, body mass index, and percentage of body fat (BF) to predict soft tissue injury was not statistically significant (χ2(7) = 5.315, p = 0.622). The results of this study showed that BCT caused a large number of soft tissue injuries similar to the number reported for musculoskeletal injuries. In conclusion, following BCT, soft tissue injury characteristics (occurrence, severity, treatment) are similar to those applied in musculoskeletal injuries for Army cadets. However, risk factors such as sex, nationality, and BF have not been related to soft tissue injury prediction as previously shown for musculoskeletal injuries for the same sample group.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Sports Science and Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
Depth Analysis of Anesthesia Using EEG Signals via Time Series Feature Extraction and Machine Learning
Sci 2023, 5(2), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020019 - 05 May 2023
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The term “anesthetic depth” refers to the extent to which a general anesthetic agent sedates the central nervous system with specific strength concentration at which it is delivered. The depth level of anesthesia plays a crucial role in determining surgical complications, and it
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The term “anesthetic depth” refers to the extent to which a general anesthetic agent sedates the central nervous system with specific strength concentration at which it is delivered. The depth level of anesthesia plays a crucial role in determining surgical complications, and it is imperative to keep the depth levels of anesthesia under control to perform a successful surgery. This study used electroencephalography (EEG) signals to predict the depth levels of anesthesia. Traditional preprocessing methods such as signal decomposition and model building using deep learning were used to classify anesthetic depth levels. This paper proposed a novel approach to classify the anesthesia levels based on the concept of time series feature extraction, by finding out the relation between EEG signals and the bi-spectral Index over a period of time. Time series feature extraction on basis of scalable hypothesis tests were performed to extract features by analyzing the relation between the EEG signals and Bi-Spectral Index, and machine learning models such as support vector classifier, XG boost classifier, gradient boost classifier, decision trees and random forest classifier are used to train the features and predict the depth level of anesthesia. The best-trained model was random forest, which gives an accuracy of 83%. This provides a platform to further research and dig into time series-based feature extraction in this area.
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Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Gun Crimes in New York City
Sci 2023, 5(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020018 - 20 Apr 2023
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Violence involving firearms in the USA is a very important problem. As a consequence, a large number of crimes of this type are recorded every year. However, the solutions proposed have not managed to reduce the number of this type of crime. One
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Violence involving firearms in the USA is a very important problem. As a consequence, a large number of crimes of this type are recorded every year. However, the solutions proposed have not managed to reduce the number of this type of crime. One of the cities with a large number of violent crimes is New York City. The number of crimes is not homogeneous and depends on the district where they occur. This paper proposes to study the information about the crimes in which firearms are involved with the aim of characterizing the factors on which the occurrence of this type of crime depends, such as the levels of poverty and culture. Since the districts are not homogeneous, the information has been analyzed at the district level. For this, data from the open data portal of the city of New York have been used and machine-learning techniques have been used. The results have shown that the variables on which they depend are different in each district.
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Open AccessArticle
A Modular Structure for Immediate and Transitory Interventions to Guarantee Access to Basic Healthcare in Italy
by
and
Sci 2023, 5(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020017 - 11 Apr 2023
Abstract
The access to basic healthcare for people who are not registered in the national health system is nowadays a very urgent problem, both in Italy and in the rest of the world. Immigration and poverty are only some of the factors that make
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The access to basic healthcare for people who are not registered in the national health system is nowadays a very urgent problem, both in Italy and in the rest of the world. Immigration and poverty are only some of the factors that make one of the primary rights of humanity—healthcare—not a right for everyone. The main problems, which have grown exponentially in the last decade, are at operational level, due to the lack of personnel (mostly volunteers) and the lack of spaces. This paper illustrates procedures and techniques for the design of a small emergency structure that can be moved and positioned in urban contexts. The first part consists of a deep analysis of the problem and of the state of the art of existing typologies. The second part is dedicated to the conceptual framework (requirements, conceptual model) and to the definition of the preliminary design for the new approach to basic non-conventional sanitary spaces. Finally, a virtual case study (project application) in Italy is presented.
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(This article belongs to the Section Environmental and Earth Science)
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Open AccessCommunication
Two-Dimensional Model for Consolidation-Induced Solute Transport in an Unsaturated Porous Medium
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and
Sci 2023, 5(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020016 - 04 Apr 2023
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Solute transport through porous media is usually described by well-established conventional transport models with the ability to account for advection, dispersion, and sorption. In this study, we further extend our previous one-dimensional model for solute transport in an unsaturated porous medium to two
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Solute transport through porous media is usually described by well-established conventional transport models with the ability to account for advection, dispersion, and sorption. In this study, we further extend our previous one-dimensional model for solute transport in an unsaturated porous medium to two dimensions. The present model is based on a small-strain approach. The proposed model is validated with previous work. Both homogeneous landfill and pointed landfill conditions are considered. A detailed parametric study shows the differences between the present model and previous one-dimensional model.
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Open AccessArticle
A One-Dimensional Blocking Index Becomes Two-Dimensional Using GIS Technology
Sci 2023, 5(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020015 - 03 Apr 2023
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Many previous studies of the occurrence of blocking anticyclones, their characteristics, and dynamics have defined the onset longitude using the one-dimensional zonal index type criterion proposed by Lejenas and Okland. In addition to examining the blocking event itself, the onset longitude was determined
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Many previous studies of the occurrence of blocking anticyclones, their characteristics, and dynamics have defined the onset longitude using the one-dimensional zonal index type criterion proposed by Lejenas and Okland. In addition to examining the blocking event itself, the onset longitude was determined to start at the nearest five degrees longitude using the National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research Reanalyses that were used to identify the events. In this study, each blocking event in the University of Missouri Blocking Archive was re-examined to identify an onset latitude, and this information was added to the archive. The events were then plotted and displayed on a map of the Northern or Southern Hemisphere using Geographic Information System (GIS) software housed at the University of Missouri as different colored and sized dots according to block intensity and duration, respectively. This allowed for a comparison of blocking events in the archive above to studies that used a two-dimensional index. Then the common onset regions were divided by phase of the El Nino and Southern Oscillation (ENSO), and the typical onset of intense and persistent blocking events could be examined. The results found a favorable comparison between the onset regions identified here and those found in previous studies that used a two-dimensional blocking index. Additionally, there was variability identified in the onset regions of blocking in both hemispheres by ENSO phase, including the location of more intense and persistent events.
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Open AccessArticle
Clustering Analysis on Sustainable Development Goal Indicators for Forty-Five Asian Countries
Sci 2023, 5(2), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5020014 - 28 Mar 2023
Abstract
This paper draws upon the United Nations 2022 data report on the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the following four dimensions: economic, social, environmental and institutional. Ward’s method was applied to obtain clustering results for forty-five Asian countries to understand their
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This paper draws upon the United Nations 2022 data report on the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the following four dimensions: economic, social, environmental and institutional. Ward’s method was applied to obtain clustering results for forty-five Asian countries to understand their level of progress and overall trends in achieving SDGs. We identified varying degrees of correlation between the four dimensions. The results show that East Asian countries performed poorly in the economic dimension, while some countries in Southeast Asia and Central and West Asia performed relatively well. Regarding social and institutional dimensions, the results indicate that East and Central Asian countries performed relatively better than others. Finally, in the environmental dimension, West and South Asian countries showed better performance than other Asian countries. The insights gathered from this study can inform policymakers of these countries about their own country’s position in achieving SDGs in relation to other Asian countries, as they work towards establishing strategies for improving their sustainable development targets.
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(This article belongs to the Section Computer Science)
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Open AccessReview
Review on Alzheimer Disease Detection Methods: Automatic Pipelines and Machine Learning Techniques
Sci 2023, 5(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5010013 - 21 Mar 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is becoming increasingly prevalent across the globe, and various diagnostic and detection methods have been developed in recent years. Several techniques are available, including Automatic Pipeline Methods and Machine Learning Methods that utilize Biomarker Methods, Fusion, and Registration for multimodality,
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Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is becoming increasingly prevalent across the globe, and various diagnostic and detection methods have been developed in recent years. Several techniques are available, including Automatic Pipeline Methods and Machine Learning Methods that utilize Biomarker Methods, Fusion, and Registration for multimodality, to pre-process medical scans. The use of automated pipelines and machine learning systems has proven beneficial in accurately identifying AD and its stages, with a success rate of over 95% for single and binary class classifications. However, there are still challenges in multi-class classification, such as distinguishing between AD and MCI, as well as sub-stages of MCI. The research also emphasizes the significance of using multi-modality approaches for effective validation in detecting AD and its stages.
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(This article belongs to the Section Computer Science)
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Open AccessEditorial
Exercise Testing and Motivation
Sci 2023, 5(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5010012 - 07 Mar 2023
Abstract
Exercise testing has important applications for sport, exercise and clinical settings, providing valuable information for exercise prescription and diagnostics for health purposes. Often, exercise testing includes the participant’s maximal effort, and the testing score partially depends on whether the maximal effort has been
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Exercise testing has important applications for sport, exercise and clinical settings, providing valuable information for exercise prescription and diagnostics for health purposes. Often, exercise testing includes the participant’s maximal effort, and the testing score partially depends on whether the maximal effort has been exerted. In this context, motivation in exercise testing, including verbal encouragement and video presentation, plays a vital role in assessing participants. Professionals involved in exercise testing, such as exercise physiologists and sport scientists, should be aware of motivation’s role in performance during laboratory or field testing, especially using verbal encouragement. Motivation during exercise testing should be standardized and fully described in testing protocols. In this way, exercise testing would provide valid and reliable results for exercise prescription or other purposes (e.g., sport talent identification, athletes’ selection, education, research and rehabilitation).
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Sports Science and Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
The Digital Calibration Certificate (DCC) for an End-to-End Digital Quality Infrastructure for Industry 4.0
Sci 2023, 5(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci5010011 - 06 Mar 2023
Cited by 2
Abstract
This article depicts the role of the Digital Calibration Certificate (DCC) for an end-to-end digital quality infrastructure and as the basis for developments that are designated by the keyword “Industry 4.0”. Furthermore, it describes the impact the DCC has on increasing productivity in
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This article depicts the role of the Digital Calibration Certificate (DCC) for an end-to-end digital quality infrastructure and as the basis for developments that are designated by the keyword “Industry 4.0”. Furthermore, it describes the impact the DCC has on increasing productivity in the manufacturing of products and in global trade. The DCC project is international in its scope. Calibration certificates document the measurement capability of a measurement system. They do this independently and by providing traceability to measurement standards. Therefore, they do not only play an important role in the world of metrology, but they also make it possible for manufacturing and commercial enterprises to exchange measurement values reliably and correctly at the national and at the international level. Thus, a DCC concept is urgently needed for the end-to-end digitalization of industry for the era of Industry 4.0 and for Medicine 4.0. A DCC brings about important advantages for issuers and for users. The DCC leads to the stringent, end-to-end, traceable and process-oriented organization of manufacturing and trading. Digitalization is thus a key factor in the field of calibration as it enables significant improvements in product and process quality. The reason for this is that the transmission of errors will be prevented, and consequently, costs will be saved as the time needed for distributing and disseminating the DCCs and the respective calibration objects will be reduced. Furthermore, it will no longer be necessary for the test equipment administration staff to update the data manually, which is a time-consuming, tedious and error-prone process.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industry 4.0 – The Global Industrial Revolution: Achievements, Obstacles and Research Needs for the Digital Transformation of Industry)
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Geosciences and Astronomy
Guest Editor: Vladimir SreckovicDeadline: 20 September 2023
Special Issue in
Sci
Biofortification of Foods of Vegetable Origin
Guest Editors: Fernando Lidon, Maria Manuela Abreu da SilvaDeadline: 20 October 2023