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23 pages, 9983 KB  
Article
Study on the Spatiotemporal Patterns and Influencing Factors of Maize Planting in Hunan Province
by Qinhao Xiao, Xigui Li, Jingyi Ma, Liangwei Zhu, Kequan Gong and Siting Zhan
Agronomy 2025, 15(10), 2339; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15102339 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Maize, one of the world’s three major food crops, plays a vital role in global food security. Analyzing the spatiotemporal patterns of maize cultivation in Hunan Province and their influencing factors contributes to enhancing planting quality and efficiency, optimizing production patterns, and supporting [...] Read more.
Maize, one of the world’s three major food crops, plays a vital role in global food security. Analyzing the spatiotemporal patterns of maize cultivation in Hunan Province and their influencing factors contributes to enhancing planting quality and efficiency, optimizing production patterns, and supporting provincial food security initiatives. Utilizing maize cultivation data from Hunan Province (2001–2023), this study employed the standard deviation ellipse, center of gravity shift model, and principal component analysis to examine production patterns and their drivers. Key findings include the following: (1) The maize planting area exhibited an overall increasing trend from 2001 to 2023, with a spatial convergence from the northwest towards the east. Cultivation hot spots were identified in Shaoyang, Loudi, and Changde. Maize cultivation was predominantly concentrated in areas with gentle slopes (0–3°) and gradually shifted eastward towards similar terrain. (2) The provincial maize production center of gravity followed a “Z”-shaped trajectory, moving eastward and southward with Loudi City as its core. While the spatial distribution pattern shifted from “northwest–southeast” to “west–east”, the core concentration area maintained its “northwest–southeast” orientation. Concurrently, the fragmentation of cultivated land within the maize planting landscape increased. (3) Maize planting hot spots expanded from the northwest towards the central and eastern regions, extending southward. Cold spot areas shifted from the central region towards the northeast. By the study’s end, the central region had emerged as the core maize planting area. (4) Agricultural production conditions and policy factors were identified as the main drivers of spatiotemporal changes in maize acreage within Hunan Province. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land Degradation and Management Strategies: Contributing to Sustainable Agriculture)
16 pages, 4123 KB  
Article
Dynamic Ultra-Fast Sorption/Desorption of Indigo Carmine onto/from Versatile Core-Shell Composite Microparticles
by Florin Bucatariu, Larisa-Maria Petrila, Timeea-Anastasia Ciobanu, Marius-Mihai Zaharia and Marcela Mihai
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10725; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910725 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
The direct deposition of highly concentrated polyelectrolyte complexes based on poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) and poly(sodium methacrylate) (PMANa) onto inorganic sand microparticles (F100 and F200) resulted in the formation of versatile core-shell composites with fast removal properties in dynamic conditions toward anionic charged pollutants. Herein, [...] Read more.
The direct deposition of highly concentrated polyelectrolyte complexes based on poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) and poly(sodium methacrylate) (PMANa) onto inorganic sand microparticles (F100 and F200) resulted in the formation of versatile core-shell composites with fast removal properties in dynamic conditions toward anionic charged pollutants. Herein, in situ-generated nonstoichiometric PEI/PMANa polyelectrolyte complexes were directly precipitated as a soft organic shell onto solid sand microparticles at a 5% mass ratio (organic/inorganic part = 5%, w/w%). The sorption of an anionic model pollutant (Indigo Carmine (IC)) onto the composite particles in dynamic conditions depended on the inorganic core size, the flow rate, the bed type (fixed or fluidized) and the initial dye concentration. The maximum sorption capacity, after 10 cycles of sorption/desorption of IC onto F100@P5% and F200@P5%, was between 16 and 18 mg IC/mL composite. The newly synthesized core-shell composites could immobilize IC at a high flow rate (8 mL/min), either from concentrated (CIC = 60 mg/L) or very diluted (CIC = 0.2 mg/L) IC aqueous solution, demonstrating that this type of material could be promising in water treatment or efficient in solid-phase extraction (concentration factor of 2000). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Pollution and Wastewater Treatment Chemistry)
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22 pages, 1273 KB  
Article
Explainable Instrument Classification: From MFCC Mean-Vector Models to CNNs on MFCC and Mel-Spectrograms with t-SNE and Grad-CAM Insights
by Tommaso Senatori, Daniela Nardone, Michele Lo Giudice and Alessandro Salvini
Information 2025, 16(10), 864; https://doi.org/10.3390/info16100864 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
This paper presents an automatic system for the classification of musical instruments from audio recordings. The project leverages deep learning (DL) techniques to achieve its objective, exploring three different classification approaches based on distinct input representations. The first method involves the extraction of [...] Read more.
This paper presents an automatic system for the classification of musical instruments from audio recordings. The project leverages deep learning (DL) techniques to achieve its objective, exploring three different classification approaches based on distinct input representations. The first method involves the extraction of Mel-Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCCs) from the audio files, which are then fed into a two-dimensional convolutional neural network (Conv2D). The second approach makes use of mel-spectrogram images as input to a similar Conv2D architecture. The third approach employs conventional machine learning (ML) classifiers, including Logistic Regression, K-Nearest Neighbors, and Random Forest, trained on MFCC-derived feature vectors. To gain insight into the behavior of the DL model, explainability techniques were applied to the Conv2D model using mel-spectrograms, allowing for a better understanding of how the network interprets relevant features for classification. Additionally, t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE) was employed on the MFCC vectors to visualize how instrument classes are organized in the feature space. One of the main challenges encountered was the class imbalance within the dataset, which was addressed by assigning class-specific weights during training. The results, in terms of classification accuracy, were very satisfactory across all approaches, with the convolutional models and Random Forest achieving around 97–98%, and Logistic Regression yielding slightly lower performance. In conclusion, the proposed methods proved effective for the selected dataset, and future work may focus on further improving class balance techniques. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence for Acoustics and Audio Signal Processing)
21 pages, 1502 KB  
Article
Leveraging Learning Analytics to Model Student Engagement in Graduate Statistics: A Problem-Based Learning Approach in Agricultural Education
by Zhihong Xu, Fahmida Husain Choudhury, Shuai Ma, Theresa Pesl Murphrey and Kim E. Dooley
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1360; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101360 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Graduate students often experience difficulties in learning statistics, particularly those who have limited mathematical backgrounds. In recent years, Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Problem-Based Learning (PBL) have been widely adopted to support instruction, yet little research has explored how these tools relate to [...] Read more.
Graduate students often experience difficulties in learning statistics, particularly those who have limited mathematical backgrounds. In recent years, Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Problem-Based Learning (PBL) have been widely adopted to support instruction, yet little research has explored how these tools relate to learning outcomes using mixed methods design. Limited studies have employed machine learning methods such as clustering analysis in Learning Analytics (LA) to explore different behavior of clusters based on students log data. This study followed an explanatory sequential mixed methods design to examine student engagement patterns on Canvas and learning outcomes of students in a graduate-level statistics course. LMS log data and surveys were collected from 31 students, followed by interviews with 19 participants. K-means clustering revealed two groups: a high-performing group with lower LMS engagement and a low-performing group with higher LMS engagement. Six themes emerged from a thematic analysis of interview transcripts: behavioral differences in engagement, the role of assessment, emotional struggle, self-efficacy, knowledge or skill gain, and structured instructional support. Results indicated that low-performing students engaged more frequently and benefited from structured guidance and repeated exposure. High-performing students showed more proactive and consistent engagement habits. These findings highlight the importance of intentional course design that combines PBL with LMS features to support diverse learners. Full article
14 pages, 2623 KB  
Article
Improving the Corrosion Resistance and Blood Compatibility of Magnesium Alloy via Fe-Based Amorphous Composite Coating Prepared by Magnetron Sputtering
by Guizhong Guo, Shusen Hou, Bing Liu, Xingzhu Du and Dunwen Zuo
Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1167; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101167 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Magnesium alloy represents a typical category of biodegradable medical materials. However, the poor corrosion resistance and rapid degradation have significantly hindered the clinical adoption of magnesium alloy implants. This paper puts forward a method to improve the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy by [...] Read more.
Magnesium alloy represents a typical category of biodegradable medical materials. However, the poor corrosion resistance and rapid degradation have significantly hindered the clinical adoption of magnesium alloy implants. This paper puts forward a method to improve the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy by using an Fe-based composite coating. The microstructure and composition of the coating were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The corrosion resistance was evaluated through potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements conducted in simulated body fluid, while the degradation behavior of the samples was evaluated by examining the hydrogen evolution volume and corrosion morphology during immersion tests. The results indicate that the composite coating exhibits a dual-layer structure, consisting of an amorphous carbon–fluorine transition layer and an iron-rich surface layer. After coating treatment, the corrosion current density of magnesium alloy decreased from 1.38 × 10−4 to 3.41 × 10−6 A/cm2. Throughout a 28-day immersion period, the composite-coated sample demonstrated a remarkably low hydrogen evolution rate and maintained a smooth, intact surface. Furthermore, hemolysis and platelet adhesion tests confirmed the outstanding blood compatibility of the composite-coated magnesium alloy, showing an ultralow hemolysis rate of 0.1% and minimal platelet adhesion with well-preserved morphology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioactive Coatings and Biointerfaces)
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17 pages, 12668 KB  
Article
Robustness as a Design Strategy: Navigating the Social Complexities of Technology in Building Production
by Milinda Pathiraja
Buildings 2025, 15(19), 3586; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15193586 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
This paper examines the role of architects in identifying and implementing design strategies that enhance labour skills, facilitate technology transfer, and support capacity building in developing economies. It examines whether specific design approaches can introduce technological robustness to address the social, cultural, and [...] Read more.
This paper examines the role of architects in identifying and implementing design strategies that enhance labour skills, facilitate technology transfer, and support capacity building in developing economies. It examines whether specific design approaches can introduce technological robustness to address the social, cultural, and economic challenges of construction in fragmented industrial environments. The study develops a normative framework for ‘technological robustness,’ which counteracts socio-technical fragmentation and promotes resilient, adaptable building practices in low-resource settings. Through a practitioner-researcher case study of a community library project in Sri Lanka, the paper illustrates how design strategies can expand operational capacity, adjust to variations in workmanship, and encourage organic skill development on real construction sites. The research offers two main contributions: a scalable, structured design methodology that guarantees technical adaptability, cultural relevance, and economic resilience; and an empirical example demonstrating how design can actively generate opportunities for capacity building within fragmented socio-technical systems. Overall, the framework provides practical pathways to enhance construction outcomes in developing economies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Adaptive, Inclusive, and Responsive Buildings)
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59 pages, 4837 KB  
Article
A Human–AI Compass for Sustainable Art Museums: Navigating Opportunities and Challenges in Operations, Collections Management, and Visitor Engagement
by Charis Avlonitou, Eirini Papadaki and Alexandros Apostolakis
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100422 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
This paper charts AI’s transformative path toward advancing sustainability within art museums, introducing a Human–AI compass as a conceptual framework for navigating its integration. It advocates for human-centric AI that optimizes operations, modernizes collection management, and deepens visitor engagement—anchored in meaningful human–technology synergy [...] Read more.
This paper charts AI’s transformative path toward advancing sustainability within art museums, introducing a Human–AI compass as a conceptual framework for navigating its integration. It advocates for human-centric AI that optimizes operations, modernizes collection management, and deepens visitor engagement—anchored in meaningful human–technology synergy and thoughtful human oversight. Drawing on extensive literature review and real-world museum case studies, the paper explores AI’s multifaceted impact across three domains. Firstly, it examines how AI improves operations, from audience forecasting and resource optimization to refining marketing, supporting conservation, and reshaping curatorial practices. Secondly, it investigates AI’s influence on digital collection management, highlighting its ability to improve organization, searchability, analysis, and interpretation through automated metadata and advanced pattern recognition. Thirdly, the study analyzes how AI elevates the visitor experience via chatbots, audio guides, and interactive applications, leveraging personalization, recommendation systems, and co-creation opportunities. Crucially, this exploration acknowledges AI’s complex challenges—technical-operational, ethical-governance, socioeconomic-cultural, and environmental—underscoring the indispensable role of human judgment in steering its implementation. The Human-AI compass offers a balanced, strategic approach for aligning innovation with human values, ethical principles, museum mission, and sustainability. The study provides valuable insights for researchers, practitioners and policymakers, enriching the broader discourse on AI’s growing role in the art and cultural sector. Full article
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12 pages, 5253 KB  
Article
Beneficiation of Fine-Grained Bayan Obo Niobium Ore Using a Slime Vibrating Table
by Si Li and Wen Chen
Minerals 2025, 15(10), 1056; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15101056 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
In order to enhance the separation efficiency of fine-grained Bayan Obo Niobium Ore, a novel gravity separation equipment named Slime Vibrating Table (SVT) was developed. The SVT employs an electromagnetic drive to generate a reciprocating motion for the table, with a lower stroke [...] Read more.
In order to enhance the separation efficiency of fine-grained Bayan Obo Niobium Ore, a novel gravity separation equipment named Slime Vibrating Table (SVT) was developed. The SVT employs an electromagnetic drive to generate a reciprocating motion for the table, with a lower stroke and higher frequency than a conventional Slime Shaking Table (SST). Key parameters of SVT, including table slope, wash-water flow rate, vibration voltage, and vibration frequency, were tested for a niobium ore assaying 0.19% Nb2O5 with a particle size below 74 um by 68.78%. Under the optimized condition, SVT was able to obtain a primary concentrate assaying 1.31% Nb2O5 with a recovery of 52.64%, which was 0.22% and 26.59% higher than that of SST, respectively. Size-by-size analysis indicated that the enhanced separation performance of SVT was mainly attributed to its superior recovery of Nb2O5 in the −38 μm fraction. The SVT introduced in this study shows great potential for efficient recovery of fine-grained strategic metals, including rare earths, tantalum, tungsten, tin, and antimony, etc. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Separation Techniques for Critical Minerals/Metals, Circular Economy, and Sustainability)
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19 pages, 1928 KB  
Review
Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson’s Disease—A Narrative Review
by Rafał Wójcik, Anna Dębska, Karol Zaczkowski, Bartosz Szmyd, Małgorzata Podstawka, Ernest J. Bobeff, Michał Piotrowski, Paweł Ratajczyk, Dariusz J. Jaskólski and Karol Wiśniewski
Biomedicines 2025, 13(10), 2430; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13102430 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an established neurosurgical treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD), mainly targeting motor symptoms resistant to pharmacological therapy. This review examines strategies to optimize DBS using advanced anatomical, functional, and imaging approaches. The subthalamic nucleus (STN) remains the principal target [...] Read more.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an established neurosurgical treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD), mainly targeting motor symptoms resistant to pharmacological therapy. This review examines strategies to optimize DBS using advanced anatomical, functional, and imaging approaches. The subthalamic nucleus (STN) remains the principal target for alleviating bradykinesia and rigidity, while recent evidence highlights the dentato-rubro-thalamic tract (DRTt) as an additional promising target, especially for tremor control. Clinical data demonstrate that co-stimulation of both STN and DRTt via electrode electric fields results in superior motor outcomes, including greater reductions in UPDRS-III scores and lower levodopa requirements. The review highlights the use of high-resolution MRI and diffusion tensor imaging tractography in visualizing STN and DRTt with high precision. These methods support accurate targeting and individualized treatment planning. Electric field modelling is discussed as a tool to quantify stimulation overlap with target structures and predict clinical efficacy. Anatomical variability in DRTt positioning relative to the STN is emphasized, supporting the need for patient-specific DBS approaches. Alternative and emerging DBS targets—including the pedunculopontine nucleus, zona incerta, globus pallidus internus, and nucleus basalis of Meynert—are discussed for their potential in treating axial and cognitive symptoms. The review concludes with a forward-looking discussion on network-based DBS paradigms, the integration of adaptive stimulation technologies, and the potential of multimodal imaging and electrophysiological biomarkers to guide therapy. Together, these advances support a paradigm shift from focal to network-based neuromodulation in PD management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurobiology and Clinical Neuroscience)
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4 pages, 200 KB  
Editorial
Overview of “Landscape Research and Design for Urban and Peri-Urban Environments—2nd Edition”
by Maria Ignatieva and Richard Smardon
Land 2025, 14(10), 1998; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14101998 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
This is a continuation on the theme of the first edition of this Special Issue of Land, “Landscape Research and Design for the Urban and Peri-Urban Environments”, edited by Richard Smardon [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Architecture and Design in Urban and Peri-Urban Environment: 2nd Edition)
19 pages, 4017 KB  
Article
Tunable Ultra-Wideband VO2–Graphene Hybrid Metasurface Terahertz Absorption Devices Based on Dual Regulation
by Kele Chen, Zhengning Wang, Meizhang Guan, Shubo Cheng, Hongyu Ma, Zao Yi and Boxun Li
Photonics 2025, 12(10), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12100987 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
In this study, a dynamically tunable terahertz device based on a VO2–graphene hybrid metasurface is proposed, which realizes the dual functions of ultra-wideband absorption and efficient transmission through VO2 phase transformation. At 345 K (metallic state), the device attains an [...] Read more.
In this study, a dynamically tunable terahertz device based on a VO2–graphene hybrid metasurface is proposed, which realizes the dual functions of ultra-wideband absorption and efficient transmission through VO2 phase transformation. At 345 K (metallic state), the device attains an absorption efficiency exceeding 90% (average 97.06%) in the range of 2.25–6.07 THz (bandwidth 3.82 THz), showing excellent absorption performance. At 318 K (insulated state), the device achieves 67.66–69.51% transmittance in the 0.1–2.14 THz and 7.51–10 THz bands while maintaining a broadband absorption of 3.6–5.08 THz (an average of 81.99%). Compared with traditional devices, the design breaks through the performance limitations by integrating phase change material control with 2D materials. The patterned graphene design simplifies the fabrication process. System analysis reveals that the device is polarization-insensitive and tunable via graphene Fermi energy and relaxation time. The device’s excellent temperature response and wide angular stability provide a novel solution for terahertz switching, stealth technology, and sensing applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photonics Metamaterials: Processing and Applications)
15 pages, 2577 KB  
Article
Muscle Strength, Lipid Metabolism and Hepatic Steatosis Are Improved with Ursolic Acid Treatment in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice
by Dongyang Kang and Li Cao
Nutrients 2025, 17(19), 3158; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17193158 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The prevalence of obesity globally has increased steadily in the past decades. Obesity, sarcopenic obesity (SO) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) commonly coexist. Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, has demonstrated potential anti-obesity properties. This study was designed to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The prevalence of obesity globally has increased steadily in the past decades. Obesity, sarcopenic obesity (SO) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) commonly coexist. Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, has demonstrated potential anti-obesity properties. This study was designed to evaluate the anti-obesity efficacy of UA in a mouse model of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, with a particular focus on its impact on muscle function and NAFLD. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice (6 weeks old) were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 20 per group): a control group (CON) fed a normal chow diet, a high-fat diet group (HFD), and a UA treatment group (UA). The HFD and UA groups received a high-fat diet for 10 weeks to induce obesity. Thereafter, mice in the UA group were administered UA orally once daily for 6 weeks. Results: In HFD-induced obese mice, UA administration significantly reduced body weight (BW), abdominal fat weight and liver weight; improved grip strength and muscle weight; and enhanced lipid profiles, including triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and free fatty acid levels in serum. UA also improved histological changes in the liver and abdominal adipose tissues, regulated serum GH, IGF-1, T3, T4 and leptin levels and downregulated the inflammation-associated gene expression of TNF-α and IL-1β in abdominal adipose tissue. Conclusions: UA could enhance muscle strength, improve lipid metabolism and hepatic steatosis and might be considered a potential therapeutic agent for managing obesity and related metabolic diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hot Topics in Nutrition and Obesity)
22 pages, 3926 KB  
Review
Targeting Modifiable Risks: Molecular Mechanisms and Population Burden of Lifestyle Factors on Male Genitourinary Health
by Xingcheng Yang, Meiping Lan, Jiawen Yang, Yuyi Xia, Linxiang Han, Ling Zhang and Yu Fang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(19), 9698; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26199698 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Health represents a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, with lifestyle factors accounting for approximately 60% of health determinants. Suboptimal health describes an intermediate condition between wellness and disease. According to 2023 WHO data, infertility affects approximately 17.5% of global adults, [...] Read more.
Health represents a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, with lifestyle factors accounting for approximately 60% of health determinants. Suboptimal health describes an intermediate condition between wellness and disease. According to 2023 WHO data, infertility affects approximately 17.5% of global adults, with male factors implicated in 30–50% of cases, establishing infertility as a critical public health challenge. Substantial preclinical and clinical evidence links suboptimal lifestyles to male reproductive dysfunction, positioning these behaviors as modifiable infertility risk factors encompassing environmental contaminants and lifestyle patterns. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on five key lifestyle determinants—tobacco, alcohol, microplastics, sedentariness, and sleep disruption—affecting male genitourinary health. Adopting an evidence-based medicine framework, we integrate epidemiological and experimental research to establish foundational knowledge for developing novel preventive strategies targeting male suboptimal health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research on Reproductive Physiology and Endocrinology)
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16 pages, 3768 KB  
Article
Analysis of Real and Simulated Energy Produced by a Photovoltaic Installations Located in Poland
by Ewa Hołota, Anna Życzyńska and Grzegorz Dyś
Energies 2025, 18(19), 5279; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18195279 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
In recent years, the amount of electricity produced by photovoltaic systems in Poland has increased significantly. This paper presents an evaluation of commercial software (PVGIS 5.3, ENERAD, and PVGIS 24) used for simulating energy produced by four photovoltaic installations. The results of the [...] Read more.
In recent years, the amount of electricity produced by photovoltaic systems in Poland has increased significantly. This paper presents an evaluation of commercial software (PVGIS 5.3, ENERAD, and PVGIS 24) used for simulating energy produced by four photovoltaic installations. The results of the simulation were compared with the real energy production. The installations differ in terms of panel orientation (S, SE, SE-NW), tilt angle (12°, 25°, 37°) and location (roof- or ground-mounted). The average annual electricity production per 1 kW of module power for each installation was as follows: PV1—1104 kWh·kW−1, PV2—1169 kWh·kW−1, PV3—927 kWh·kW−1, and PV4—831 kWh·kW−1. The highest values were recorded for ground-mounted installations facing south. Simulations carried out using computer programs show differences between simulated and real electricity production values of 35–41% for the ENERAD software, 3–13% for the PVGIS 5.3 software, and 3–32% for the PVGIS 24 software. The most accurate forecasts were obtained for the PV2 system in the PVGIS 24 software (MPE 3%, RMSE 12%), and the most unfavorable for the same installation in the ENERAD software (MPE 41%, RMSE 48%). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A2: Solar Energy and Photovoltaic Systems)
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21 pages, 708 KB  
Article
Assessing Comprehensive Spatial Ability and Specific Attributes Through Higher-Order LLM
by Jujia Li, Kaiwen Man, Mehdi Rajeb, Andrew Krist and Joni M. Lakin
J. Intell. 2025, 13(10), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence13100127 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Spatial reasoning ability plays a critical role in predicting academic outcomes, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education. According to the Cattell–Horn–Carroll (CHC) theory of human intelligence, spatial reasoning is a general ability including various specific attributes. However, most spatial assessments [...] Read more.
Spatial reasoning ability plays a critical role in predicting academic outcomes, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education. According to the Cattell–Horn–Carroll (CHC) theory of human intelligence, spatial reasoning is a general ability including various specific attributes. However, most spatial assessments focus on testing one specific spatial attribute or a limited set (e.g., visualization, rotation, etc.), rather than general spatial ability. To address this limitation, we created a mixed spatial test that includes mental rotation, object assembly, and isometric perception subtests to evaluate both general spatial ability and specific attributes. To understand the complex relationship between general spatial ability and mastery of specific attributes, we used a higher-order linear logistic model (HO-LLM), which is designed to simultaneously estimate high-order ability and sub-attributes. Additionally, this study compares four spatial ability classification frameworks using each to construct Q-matrices that define the relationships between test items and spatial reasoning attributes within the HO-LLM framework. Our findings indicate that HO-LLMs improve model fit and show distinct patterns of attribute mastery, highlighting which spatial attributes contribute most to general spatial ability. The results suggest that higher-order LLMs can offer a deeper and more interpretable assessment of spatial ability and support tailored training by identifying areas of strength and weakness in individual learners. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Contributions to the Measurement of Intelligence)
24 pages, 1879 KB  
Article
Comparison of Hard Tick (Acari: Ixodidae) Fauna in Natural and Anthropogenic Habitats in Croatia
by Stjepan Krčmar, Marko Vucelja, Marco Pezzi, Marko Boljfetić, Josip Margaletić and Linda Bjedov
Insects 2025, 16(10), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16101027 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Due to the evident increase in tick-borne diseases worldwide, it is necessary to constantly update information on the distribution and zoonotic potential of hard ticks. We studied diversity, population structure, and seasonal dynamics of hard tick fauna, faunal similarity and the climate impact [...] Read more.
Due to the evident increase in tick-borne diseases worldwide, it is necessary to constantly update information on the distribution and zoonotic potential of hard ticks. We studied diversity, population structure, and seasonal dynamics of hard tick fauna, faunal similarity and the climate impact on tick occurrence in natural habitats (NHs) (forest communities) and anthropogenic habitats (AHs) (orchards, grasslands, degraded forests) in eastern and central parts of Continental Croatia. Host-seeking hard ticks were sampled by the flag-dragging method in lowland AHs (Bansko Hill (BH); 2023–2024 yr.) and in mountainous NHs (Medvednica Mountain (MM); 2019–2021, 2024 yr.). Overall, 2726 specimens belonging to eight hard tick species (Ixodes ricinus, I. frontalis, I. hexagonus, I. kaiseri, Haemaphysalis inermis, H. concinna, Dermacentor marginatus, D. reticulatus) were identified in AHs, while in NHs 1543 hard ticks, belonging to three species (I. ricinus, I. frontalis, D. reticulatus), were collected. The most abundant species in both habitat types (47.83% in AHs, 99.80% in NHs) was I. ricinus, showing unimodal seasonal activity within studied NHs and bimodal activity at AHs. Comparison of hard tick fauna in different habitats using the Sørenson index on BH and MM showed a high percentage of similarity (50.0–88.8). At AHs, a significant (p < 0.05) negative correlation was determined between the abundance (N) and the mean monthly air temperatures (°C) for H. inermis (r = −0.5931; p = 0.0421) and D. reticulatus (r = −0.6289; p = 0.0285), while their numbers positively correlated (r = 0.5551; p = −0.2667; r = 0.4430; p = 0.1492) with air humidity (%). In contrast, the number of sampled host-seeking I. ricinus ticks at natural forest habitats on MM was positively associated with air temperature and negatively with air humidity at elevations from 200 to 1000 m a.s.l. (r = −0.7684; p = 0.0259; at 200 m a.s.l.). Collected specimens of I. frontalis mark the first record for Osijek–Baranja County, while the sampled D. reticulatus on MM represents the first catch at 1000 m a.s.l. in Croatia. This new data on the distribution and seasonality of medically important hard tick species in Continental Croatia contributes to identifying tick-risk foci and high-risk periods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens: 2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 954 KB  
Article
Spray-Dried Phenolic Compounds from Olive Mill Waste Water as Animal Feed Supplement: Impact on the Aromatic Profile of “Caciotta Cheese”
by Giulia Francesca Cifuni, Pasquale Caparra, Enzo Perri, Cinzia Benincasa, Giuseppe Morone and Salvatore Claps
Molecules 2025, 30(19), 3991; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30193991 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation with different levels of spray-dried phenolic compounds, extracted from olive mill wastewater, on the volatile compound profile of Caciotta cheese produced from cow’s milk. Thirty dairy cows were divided into three groups and fed diets [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation with different levels of spray-dried phenolic compounds, extracted from olive mill wastewater, on the volatile compound profile of Caciotta cheese produced from cow’s milk. Thirty dairy cows were divided into three groups and fed diets containing 0% (C), 0.1% (T0.1), and 0.2% (T0.2) polyphenols on a dry matter basis. Milk from each group was used in three cheesemaking sessions, and 27 cheese samples ripened for 21 days were analyzed. Volatile compounds were extracted using solid phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with mass spectrometry, while the odour fingerprint was assessed using an electronic nose (PEN3). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed a clear separation among groups, indicating distinct aromatic profiles associated with dietary polyphenol levels. In summary, incorporating by-products from olive mill wastewater into the diets of dairy cows can significantly affect the aroma of cheese. This approach represents a sustainable and innovative strategy that promotes waste valorization, reduces environmental impact, and supports circular economy principles by transforming a pollutant into a valuable additive. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Valorization of Food, Agricultural By-Products and Waste, 2nd Edition)
17 pages, 7072 KB  
Article
SNARE Protein CfSec22 Mediates Vesicular Trafficking to Regulate Growth, Conidiogenesis, and Pathogenesis of Ceratocystis fimbriata
by Changgen Li, Yiming Wang, Xiaoying Cao, Kailun Lu, Lianwei Li and Jihong Jiang
Microorganisms 2025, 13(10), 2305; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13102305 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins play evolutionarily conserved roles in intracellular vesicle trafficking and membrane fusion across eukaryotes. In pathogenic fungi, various SNARE homologs have been shown to critically regulate host infection processes. Here, we characterize the functional roles of [...] Read more.
Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins play evolutionarily conserved roles in intracellular vesicle trafficking and membrane fusion across eukaryotes. In pathogenic fungi, various SNARE homologs have been shown to critically regulate host infection processes. Here, we characterize the functional roles of CfSec22 in the sweet potato black rot pathogen Ceratocystis fimbriata. Phylogenetic and domain analyses demonstrate that CfSec22 shares homology with Sec22 proteins from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ScSec22), Magnaporthe oryzae (MoSec22), and other fungi, containing both the characteristic Longin homology domain and V-SNARE domain. Functional studies reveal that CfSec22 regulates growth, conidiation, and virulence of C. fimbriata. Deletion of CfSEC22 resulted in abnormal vacuole morphology and impaired endocytosis. The ΔCfsec22 mutant displayed heightened sensitivity to diverse stress conditions: oxidative, endoplasmic reticulum, and cell wall stressors. Subcellular localization studies confirmed the endoplasmic reticulum residence of CfSec22. Finally, we established that CfSec22 regulates the secretion of virulence-associated proteins and is required for the induction of ipomeamarone in infected sweet potato tissues. Together, our findings demonstrate that CfSec22-mediated vesicle trafficking serves as a critical regulatory mechanism supporting growth, conidiogenesis, and pathogenicity in C. fimbriata. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Paper in Plant–Microbe Interactions in Asia)
16 pages, 493 KB  
Article
The Promoting Role of Teachers’ Emotional Competence in Innovative Teaching Behaviors: The Mediating Effects of Teaching Efficacy and Work Vitality
by Xi Li, Si Cheng, Ning Chen and Haibin Wang
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1357; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101357 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Amid ongoing educational reforms and the rapid advancement of the knowledge economy, innovative teaching behaviors are not only closely related to teachers’ professional growth and students’ academic achievement but are also regarded as the key driving force for the evolution of the educational [...] Read more.
Amid ongoing educational reforms and the rapid advancement of the knowledge economy, innovative teaching behaviors are not only closely related to teachers’ professional growth and students’ academic achievement but are also regarded as the key driving force for the evolution of the educational system. Consequently, identifying effective ways to foster teachers’ innovative teaching behaviors has become a central concern in educational psychology and management. Grounded in the Job Demands–Resources framework, this study developed and tested a chained mediation model using survey data from 1163 Chinese elementary and secondary school teachers. The model examines how teachers’ emotional competence fosters innovative teaching behaviors and elucidates the underlying mechanisms. The results revealed that (1) emotional competence significantly and positively predicted innovative teaching behaviors, and (2) teaching efficacy and work vitality served not only as independent mediators but also as sequential mediators in this relationship. These findings extend the understanding of the antecedents of teachers’ innovative behaviors from an emotional perspective, demonstrating that emotional competence, as a critical psychological resource, can be transformed into innovative teaching behaviors through dual “cognitive–motivational” and “energy–motivational” pathways. This study offers both theoretical insights and practical implications for advancing teaching innovation by strengthening teachers’ emotional competence, teaching efficacy, and work vitality. Full article
19 pages, 1868 KB  
Article
Improved Deadbeat Predictive Current Predictive Control Based on Low-Complexity State Feedback Controllers and Online Parameter Identification
by Yun Zhang, Mingchen Luan, Zhenyu Tang, Haitao Yan and Long Wang
Machines 2025, 13(10), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13100917 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
To improve the control accuracy and address the parameter disturbance issues of joint-driven permanent magnet synchronous motors in intelligent manufacturing, this paper proposes an improved deadbeat predictive current predictive control (DPCC) scheme that eliminates dead zones. This scheme establishes a multi-parameter identification model [...] Read more.
To improve the control accuracy and address the parameter disturbance issues of joint-driven permanent magnet synchronous motors in intelligent manufacturing, this paper proposes an improved deadbeat predictive current predictive control (DPCC) scheme that eliminates dead zones. This scheme establishes a multi-parameter identification model based on the error equation of the d-q axis predicted current, which improves the problem of not being able to identify all parameters caused by insufficient input signals. It also implements decoupling compensation for the coupling between the d-q axis inductance, stator resistance, and magnetic flux linkage. To meet the anticipated control objectives and account for external disturbances, a low-complexity specified performance tracking controller (LCSPC) based on output target error signals has been designed. This mitigates output delay issues arising from nonlinear components during motor operation. Finally, simulation analysis and experimental testing demonstrate that the proposed control scheme achieves high identification accuracy with minimal delay, thus meeting the transient control performance requirements for motors in intelligent manufacturing processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrical Machines and Drives)
25 pages, 2327 KB  
Article
Extraction Methods Shape the Phenolic Composition and Bioactivities of Defatted Moroccan Pistacia lentiscus L. Resin
by Abdessamad Beraich, Daniela Batovska, Krastena Nikolova, Burak Dikici, Göksen Gören, Yousra Belbachir, Mohamed Taibi, Amine Elbouzidi, Irena Mincheva, Natalina Panova, Abdesselam Tahani, Abdeslam Asehraou and Abdelmonaem Talhaoui
Antioxidants 2025, 14(10), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14101207 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Mastic gum from Pistacia lentiscus L. has long been valued in Mediterranean medicine and food preservation, yet its bioactive potential remains underexplored in specific geographic contexts. In Morocco, the resin—locally known as Meska Horra—is abundant but insufficiently characterized. This study compared three extraction [...] Read more.
Mastic gum from Pistacia lentiscus L. has long been valued in Mediterranean medicine and food preservation, yet its bioactive potential remains underexplored in specific geographic contexts. In Morocco, the resin—locally known as Meska Horra—is abundant but insufficiently characterized. This study compared three extraction methods—cold maceration (CM), Soxhlet extraction (SE), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE)—using sequential acetone and 70% ethanol to recover complementary phenolic compounds from defatted resin. Targeted UHPLC–ESI–MS/MS profiling identified and quantified 30 phenolics, mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids, providing the first systematic dataset for Moroccan mastic gum. UAE–EtOH extract displayed the strongest antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50 = 0.029 mg/mL; ABTS•+ IC50 = 0.026 mg/mL). SE–acetone and SE–EtOH extracts showed potent antifungal activity, particularly against Geotrichum candidum, Rhodotorula glutinis, and Aspergillus niger (MBC = 1.7%). The SE–acetone extract exhibited cytotoxicity toward MIA PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer cells (IC50 = 19 µg/mL). These findings demonstrate that extraction method and solvent choice strongly influence phenolic recovery and associated bioactivities, supporting the valorization of Moroccan mastic gum as a promising source for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Extraction of Antioxidant from Natural Source)
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34 pages, 4943 KB  
Review
Microbial and Chemical Water Quality Assessments Across the Rural and Urban Areas of Nepal: A Scoping Review
by Suhana Chattopadhyay, Alex Choiniere, Nedelina Tchangalova, Yunika Acharya, Amy R. R. Sapkota and Leena Malayil
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(10), 1526; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22101526 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Nepal is currently facing critical water quality challenges due to urbanization, water management and governance issues, as well as natural disasters. This has resulted in the presence of harmful contaminants (e.g., pathogens, nitrates, arsenic) across multiple water sources, subsequently leading to waterborne disease [...] Read more.
Nepal is currently facing critical water quality challenges due to urbanization, water management and governance issues, as well as natural disasters. This has resulted in the presence of harmful contaminants (e.g., pathogens, nitrates, arsenic) across multiple water sources, subsequently leading to waterborne disease risks (e.g., cholera and typhoid). In response to these environmental and public health concerns, we conducted a scoping review to assess microbial and chemical contaminants in drinking and irrigation water in Nepal, as well as their potential impacts on public health. Following the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis and the PRISMA-SCR guidelines, we systematically searched for peer-reviewed literature on Nepal’s water quality in seven databases. Of 3666 unique records screened using predefined inclusion criteria, 140 met our criteria. The studies encompassed a variety of methodological designs, with the majority focusing on water sources in the Bagmati province. Bacteria and arsenic emerged as the most prevalent contaminants. Additionally, diseases such as arsenicosis and typhoid remain widespread and may be linked to contaminated water sources. The review identified key gaps in Nepal’s water quality management, including limited geographic research coverage, inconsistent testing protocols, weak regulatory enforcement, and a lack of integration of water quality with public health planning. Our findings underscore the urgent need for effective surveillance systems and a robust regulatory framework to promptly respond to water contamination events in Nepal. Full article
15 pages, 705 KB  
Article
Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy with Serplulimab and the Bevacizumab Biosimilar HLX04 for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Prospective, Observational Phase II Clinical Trial
by Huikai Li, Tongguo Si, Rentao Li, Xiaojing Xie, Yang Liu, Linlin Fu, Yu Bai, Junchao Yao, Xihao Zhang, Mao Yang and Xiaofeng Mu
Cancers 2025, 17(19), 3235; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17193235 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents limited treatment options; however, immunotherapy demonstrates encouraging outcomes and acceptable adverse reactions in advanced HCC. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of combining serplulimab, the bevacizumab biosimilar HLX04, and hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) as a [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents limited treatment options; however, immunotherapy demonstrates encouraging outcomes and acceptable adverse reactions in advanced HCC. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of combining serplulimab, the bevacizumab biosimilar HLX04, and hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) as a first-line therapy. Methods: This prospective, observational, single-center phase II trial enrolled untreated HCC patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage C. All patients received serplulimab (4.5 mg/kg) and HLX04 (15.0 mg/kg) every 3 weeks, followed by the HAIC-FOLFOX regimen. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included the disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), and safety. Results: A total of 32 patients were enrolled. The best outcomes showed an ORR of 53.1%, including 17 partial responses (PR, 53.1%) and 12 stable diseases (SD, 37.5%), resulting in a DCR of 90.6%. Subgroup analysis showed a higher ORR in patients with a single lesion and those receiving ≥3 treatment cycles, with an ORR of 60.7% in the latter group. Additionally, five patients underwent successful hepatectomy after ≥3 treatment cycles, with postoperative pathology confirming extensive tumor necrosis. Kaplan–Meier analysis estimated PFS rates of 89.9% (95% CI: 79.5–100.0%) at 6 months and 70.8% (95% CI: 54.2–92.4%) at 12 months. No deaths related to adverse events (AEs) occurred; four (12.5%) patients experienced grade IV AEs and twelve (37.5%) patients experienced grade III AEs. Conclusions: Serplulimab, HLX04, and HAIC combined as a first-line treatment for advanced HCC have demonstrated promising efficacy, particularly in patients completing ≥3 cycles, with an acceptable safety profile. Further investigation in larger trials is required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Decision-Making Biomarkers in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma)
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16 pages, 334 KB  
Article
The Field of Gender Through Metaphors: The Dilemma of Female and Male Referees in the Minds of Football Fans
by Sabiha Gizem Engin
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1359; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101359 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
The perception of football as a male-dominated sport by society, coupled with the socio-cultural and economic barriers faced by women, has constrained their presence in the domain of football and revealed the manifestation of gender norms within the sport. This exclusion further masculinizes [...] Read more.
The perception of football as a male-dominated sport by society, coupled with the socio-cultural and economic barriers faced by women, has constrained their presence in the domain of football and revealed the manifestation of gender norms within the sport. This exclusion further masculinizes sport, negatively affecting social unity and cohesion, and deepening inequality within sport. Within this context, the study seeks to reveal how football fans perceive female and male referees through metaphorical representations. Participants, selected using purposive sampling, are individuals who regularly attend football matches and have experience watching games officiated by female football referees. The research employed a phenomenological approach to analyse metaphors generated by 352 football fans regarding female and male referees. Data were collected online through the Google Forms platform, which was accessible only to the researcher via password-protected access. During the analysis process, metaphors were coded, categorized, and transformed into meaningful interpretative formats. Results indicate that female referees are predominantly described with metaphors associated with sexist objectification, such as “flower”, “rose”, and “queen.” Female referees are represented by social roles and stereotypes metaphors like “mother,” and “gold,” yet they are also confronted with violence and disparaging metaphors such as “trash” and “chaos.” Conversely, male referees are perceived through metaphors evoking strength, toughness, and authority, including “lion”, “stone”, “authority”, “king”, and “leader.” These metaphorical representations highlight the persistence of gender norms within sport, demonstrating how women’s professional competencies are overshadowed by societal codes. Moreover, they are depicted as figures of power and discipline, reflecting masculinity within the sporting context. Ultimately, the research seeks to raise awareness about gender-based perceptions and foster transformation towards greater gender equality in sport. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)
25 pages, 2217 KB  
Article
Analysis of Elastic-Stage Mechanical Behavior of PBL Shear Connector in UHPC
by Lin Xiao, Yawen He, Hongjuan Wang, Xing Wei, Xuan Liao, Yingliang Wang and Xiaochun Dai
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(10), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9100547 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
This paper investigates the mechanical behavior of PBL shear connectors in UHPC during the elastic stage, utilizing push-out experiments and numerical simulation. This study simplifies the mechanical behavior of PBL shear connectors in UHPC under normal service conditions as a plane strain problem [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the mechanical behavior of PBL shear connectors in UHPC during the elastic stage, utilizing push-out experiments and numerical simulation. This study simplifies the mechanical behavior of PBL shear connectors in UHPC under normal service conditions as a plane strain problem for the UHPC dowel and a Winkler’s Elastic foundation beam theory for the transverse reinforcement. The UHPC dowel is a thick-walled cylindrical shell subjected to non-axisymmetric loads inside and outside simultaneously in the plane-strain state. The stress solution is derived by assuming the contact stress distribution function and using the Airy stress function. The displacement solution is subsequently determined from the stresses by differentiating between elastic and rigid body displacements. By modeling the transverse reinforcement as an infinitely long elastic foundation beam, its displacement solution and stress solution are obtained. We obtain the load–slip curve calculation method by superimposing the displacement of UHPC with the transverse reinforcement in the direction of shear action. The proposed analytical solutions for stress and slip, as well as the method for calculating load–slip, are shown to be reliable by comparing them to the numerical simulation analysis results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical and Computational Investigation on Composite Materials)
14 pages, 319 KB  
Systematic Review
The Impact of Virtual-Reality-Based Physiotherapy on Upper Limb Function in Children with Cerebral Palsy
by Zuzanna Wojtowicz, Katarzyna Czech, Adrianna Lechowska and Justyna Paprocka
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(19), 7040; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14197040 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common causes of permanent motor disability in children, and its consequences for upper limb function have a significant impact on the patient’s independence and quality of life. Virtual reality is attracting increasing interest [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common causes of permanent motor disability in children, and its consequences for upper limb function have a significant impact on the patient’s independence and quality of life. Virtual reality is attracting increasing interest as a modern, engaging and effective method of physiotherapy for children with cerebral palsy. This systematic literature review aimed to synthesize current scientific data on the impact of virtual-reality-based physiotherapy on upper limb function in children with cerebral palsy. Methods: The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Research Gate and Google Scholar databases were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2025. Six original studies meeting the following criteria were included in the analysis: virtual reality therapy, population of children with cerebral palsy, physiotherapy goals related to the upper limb and availability of full text. Results: All included studies demonstrated a positive impact of virtual reality on at least one functional parameter of the upper limb, including range of motion, muscle strength, coordination and manual precision. Task-oriented training, immersive virtual reality environments and home-based therapy supported by remote monitoring proved to be the most effective. The effects were particularly noticeable in children with moderate impairment at GMFCS I–III. Conclusions: Virtual reality represents a safe and promising technology to support upper limb physiotherapy in children with cerebral palsy. It can be used both in clinical and home settings, contributing to increased exercise intensity and motivation. Further long-term studies using high-quality methodology are needed to determine the sustainability of the effects and their impact on everyday living. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Pediatrics)
34 pages, 19165 KB  
Article
Research on Design of Modular Apartment Building Product Platform for Manufacture and Assembly: A Case Study of the Modular Dormitory Building Design Project
by Meng Wang, Xinrui Li, Feng Li and Jianghua Wang
Buildings 2025, 15(19), 3585; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15193585 (registering DOI) - 5 Oct 2025
Abstract
Currently, the global construction industry is facing challenges of stagnant efficiency and cost overruns. The potential of modular construction has not been fully unleashed due to the disconnection between design and manufacturing. This paper proposes a P-DFMA (Platform-Design for Manufacture and Assembly) building [...] Read more.
Currently, the global construction industry is facing challenges of stagnant efficiency and cost overruns. The potential of modular construction has not been fully unleashed due to the disconnection between design and manufacturing. This paper proposes a P-DFMA (Platform-Design for Manufacture and Assembly) building product platform architecture for modular apartments. The research establishes a three-level standardization framework of “modular unit-component-connector”, covering core residential modules, light steel keel systems, and high-strength bolt joints. Finite element simulation using SimSolid is employed to ensure manufacturing feasibility, and a standardized component library and a full-process collaborative P-DFMA architecture for modular apartments are developed. Verified through the case of the modular dormitory building project at Tianjin Chengjian University, the results show that compared with the traditional prefabricated construction mode, the P-DFMA platform mode achieves a cost savings rate of 54.8% in project design, production, and cross-link collaboration. This proves the feasibility and architectural advantages of the platform in improving the full-process efficiency and optimizing costs of modular buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Modern Structural Engineering: From Materials to Building Structures)
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