Advancing Open Science
Supporting academic communities
since 1996
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 

Recent Articles  

21 pages, 1027 KB  
Article
Enhancing MOOC Recommendation Through Preference-Aware Knowledge Graph Diffusion and Temporal Sequence Modeling
by Chao Duan, Wenlong Zhang, Qiaoling Cui, Yu Pei, Bin He and Qionghao Huang
Information 2025, 16(12), 1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/info16121061 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Course recommendation is a critical service in Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) that helps learners discover relevant courses from massive online educational platforms. Despite substantial progress in this field, two key challenges remain unresolved: (1) existing methods fail to leverage the differences in learners’ [...] Read more.
Course recommendation is a critical service in Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) that helps learners discover relevant courses from massive online educational platforms. Despite substantial progress in this field, two key challenges remain unresolved: (1) existing methods fail to leverage the differences in learners’ interests across different courses during knowledge propagation processes, and (2) while sequential relationships have been considered in course recommendations, there is still significant room for improvement in effectively integrating sequential patterns with knowledge-graph-based approaches. To overcome these limitations, we propose PGDB (Preference-aware Graph Diffusion network and Bi-LSTM), an innovative end-to-end framework for course recommendation. Our model consists of four key components: First, a course knowledge graph diffusion module recursively collects multiple knowledge triples related to learners to construct their knowledge background. Second, a preference-aware diffusion attention mechanism analyzes learners’ preferences for courses and relational paths using multi-head attention, effectively distinguishing semantic diversity across different contexts and capturing varying learner interests during knowledge transmission. Third, a temporal sequence modeling module utilizes bidirectional long short-term memory networks to identify learners’ interest evolution patterns, generating learner-dependent representations that efficiently leverage sequential relationships between courses. Finally, a prediction module combines the final representations of learners and courses to output selection probabilities for candidate courses. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that PGDB significantly outperforms state-of-the-art baseline models across multiple evaluation metrics, validating the effectiveness of our approach in addressing data sparsity and sequential modeling challenges in course recommendation systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Graph Neural Networks and Transformers for Intelligent Data-Driven Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1555 KB  
Article
Bridging East and West: Real-World Clinicogenomic Landscape of Metastatic NSCLC in Türkiye
by Kübra Canaslan, Emre Eken, Mehmet Bilici, Fahriye Merve Balcıoğlu, Banu Öztürk, Mehmet Çakmak, Öznur Bal, Görkem Turhan, Feyyaz Özdemir, Hayati Arvas, Zuhat Urakçı, Ebru Çiçek, Zeynep Hande Turna and Aziz Karaoğlu
Genes 2025, 16(12), 1446; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16121446 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Genomic profiling guides treatment in metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (mNSCLC), yet country-level data from Türkiye remain limited. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients with mNSCLC diagnosed between January 2018 and March 2025 across tertiary centers in all seven regions. Variables included demographics, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Genomic profiling guides treatment in metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (mNSCLC), yet country-level data from Türkiye remain limited. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients with mNSCLC diagnosed between January 2018 and March 2025 across tertiary centers in all seven regions. Variables included demographics, smoking, histology, testing modality (single-gene vs. next-generation sequencing [NGS]), targetable genomic alterations (TGAs) and co-mutations, and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) tumor proportion score. Results: Among 1023 patients (mean age 64 years; 76.4% male), tobacco exposure was frequent (mean 42.1 pack-years); 16.9% were never-smokers. NGS use increased over time, exceeding 90% by 2025. TGAs were detected in 28.3% (EGFR 16.0%, ALK 5.0%, KRAS G12C 2.6%, BRAF V600E 3.2%; ROS1, MET exon 14, HER2, NTRK ≤ 2.5%; no RET). EGFR alterations occurred in 19% of non-squamous carcinomas and 6% of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), suggesting an intermediate East–West pattern. Among NGS-tested samples, TP53 was the most frequent co-mutation (33.1%), followed by alterations in CDKN2A, PIK3CA, FGFR, STK11, and KEAP1. Conclusions: In this large, multicenter Turkish real-world cohort, the TGA spectrum broadly mirrors global patterns while revealing local nuances; EGFR mutations were more frequent than expected in SCC, and nationwide NGS adoption is accelerating. Limitations include retrospective design, non-centralized PD-L1 testing, and missing data. Prospective, standardized studies integrating outcomes and resistance mechanisms are warranted to refine regional precision oncology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Genomics of Lung Cancer)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 427 KB  
Review
Dietary Fatty Acids Modulate Gut Microbiota-Derived Trimethylamine-N-Oxide: Potential Mechanisms and Future Perspective
by Ece Kilic and Pervin Basaran
Nutrients 2025, 17(23), 3787; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17233787 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
High-fat diets are known to contribute to metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, partly through alterations in gut microbiota composition. However, the impact of dietary fat on gut microbiota depends on fat composition, with both the degree of saturation and [...] Read more.
High-fat diets are known to contribute to metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, partly through alterations in gut microbiota composition. However, the impact of dietary fat on gut microbiota depends on fat composition, with both the degree of saturation and chain length of fatty acids playing essential roles in modulating microbial populations. Saturated long-chain fatty acids have been shown to promote the production of trimethylamine (TMA), a precursor of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), an emerging gut microbiota-derived biomarker associated with cardiovascular disease. These effects occur through multiple mechanisms, including increased colonic oxygen levels and taurine-conjugated bile acids, which promote pathways that favor TMA-producing bacteria. In contrast, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids exert beneficial effects by altering pH and supporting SCFA-producing bacteria, thereby reducing levels of TMA-producing bacteria. Given the influence of gut microbial communities and their metabolites on the onset of metabolic disorders, dietary strategies that modulate the microbiota and its metabolic products through optimized fatty acid composition represent promising therapeutic approaches for preventing conditions such as cardiovascular disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Fat and Metabolic Diseases)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

24 pages, 5651 KB  
Article
Coordinated Hybrid VAR Compensation Strategy with Grid-Forming BESS and Solar PV for Enhanced Stability in Inverter-Dominated Power Systems
by Javed Khan Bhutto, Arvind Kumar, Sarfaraz Kamangar, Amir Ibrahim Ali Arabi, Hadi Hakami and Nazneen Mushtaque
Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10820; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310820 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
This paper proposes a coordinated hybrid VAR compensation strategy that leverages the dynamic support capabilities of a grid-forming (GFM) battery energy storage system (BESS) and solar photovoltaic (PV) plant to enhance the stability of inverter-dominated power systems. The hybrid compensator integrates a VSC-based [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a coordinated hybrid VAR compensation strategy that leverages the dynamic support capabilities of a grid-forming (GFM) battery energy storage system (BESS) and solar photovoltaic (PV) plant to enhance the stability of inverter-dominated power systems. The hybrid compensator integrates a VSC-based static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) with a thyristor-switched capacitor (TSC), combining the fast dynamic response of the STATCOM with the high reactive power capacity of the TSC. A coordinated control framework is developed to enable seamless interaction between the hybrid VAR compensator and the GFM-controlled PV and BESS units, ensuring improved voltage regulation and transient stability under varying operating conditions. The PV plant operates at maximum power Point while maintaining its grid-forming capability, thereby maximizing renewable energy utilization while contributing to frequency and voltage support. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is validated through FPGA-based real-time simulations under scenarios including large load variations, solar irradiance fluctuations, and grid disturbances. Results show that the coordinated operation enhances voltage stability, strengthens reactive power support, mitigates low-frequency oscillations, and significantly improves the dynamic performance of low-inertia, inverter-dominated grids. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2203 KB  
Article
Functional Enhancement of Recalcitrant Peroxidase Kerl via Fusion Strategy and Active-Site Redesign
by Shuheng Pan, Binhao Wang, Xiangfei Lei, Jinjun Dong, Ulrich Schwaneberg, Ruizhi Han and Ye Ni
Catalysts 2025, 15(12), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15121133 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Limited functional solubility of peroxidases in Escherichia coli (E. coli) remains a pervasive bottleneck for their application in biocatalytic processes such as tryptophan hydroxylation. Here, a peroxidase (Kerl) with poor solubility derived from Candidatus Entotheonella factor was selected as the model [...] Read more.
Limited functional solubility of peroxidases in Escherichia coli (E. coli) remains a pervasive bottleneck for their application in biocatalytic processes such as tryptophan hydroxylation. Here, a peroxidase (Kerl) with poor solubility derived from Candidatus Entotheonella factor was selected as the model enzyme to address this bottleneck. Fusion tag screening identified NusA as the optimal solubility enhancer, enabling soluble expression with preserved activity. Structure-guided mutagenesis was performed to identify residues involved in catalytic enhancement and substrate preference. Variant I284Q exhibited a 2.67-fold increase in catalytic efficiency, and residue R275 was identified as a key determinant of substrate discrimination. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were further employed to elucidate the structural basis the improved catalytic performance. This study presents an integrated framework for solubility enhancement and functional optimization of peroxidases. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

41 pages, 1678 KB  
Article
Analysis of Adiabatic Strain Localization Coupled to Ductile Fracture and Melting, with Application and Verification for Simple Shear
by John D. Clayton
AppliedMath 2025, 5(4), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/appliedmath5040169 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Material failure by adiabatic shear is analyzed in viscoplastic metals that can demonstrate up to three distinct softening mechanisms: thermal softening, ductile fracture, and melting. An analytical framework is constructed for studying simple shear deformation with superposed static pressure. A continuum power-law viscoplastic [...] Read more.
Material failure by adiabatic shear is analyzed in viscoplastic metals that can demonstrate up to three distinct softening mechanisms: thermal softening, ductile fracture, and melting. An analytical framework is constructed for studying simple shear deformation with superposed static pressure. A continuum power-law viscoplastic formulation is coupled to a ductile damage model and a solid–liquid phase transition model in a thermodynamically consistent manner. Criteria for localization to a band of infinite shear strain are discussed. An analytical–numerical method for determining the critical average shear strain for localization and commensurate stress decay is devised. Averaged results for a high-strength steel agree reasonably well with experimental dynamic torsion data. Calculations probe possible effects of ductile fracture and melting on shear banding, and vice versa, including influences of cohesive energy, equilibrium melting temperature, and initial defects. A threshold energy density for localization onset is positively correlated to critical strain and inversely correlated to initial defect severity. Tensile pressure accelerates damage softening and increases defect sensitivity, promoting shear failure. In the present steel, melting is precluded by ductile fracture for loading conditions and material properties within realistic protocols. For this steel, if conduction, fracture, and damage softening are artificially suppressed, melting is confined to a narrow region in the core of the band. However, for other metals with vastly different physical properties, or for more diverse loading conditions, melting has not been unequivocally ruled out, even if fracture and conduction are permitted. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1076 KB  
Article
The Impact of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems on Value Co-Creation in SME: The Moderating Role of Marketing Innovations
by Vera Silva Carlos, João Almeida, Filipe Sampaio Rodrigues, Angela C. Macedo and Pedro Mota Veiga
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15120475 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Value co-creation is essential for the success and sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to integrate resources and knowledge from multiple stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, and universities, to develop innovative offerings. However, research drawing on Service-Dominant Logic (SDL) and [...] Read more.
Value co-creation is essential for the success and sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to integrate resources and knowledge from multiple stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, and universities, to develop innovative offerings. However, research drawing on Service-Dominant Logic (SDL) and Resource-Based View (RBV) has devoted limited attention to how entrepreneurial ecosystem cooperation and marketing innovation jointly shape SME value co-creation, particularly in smaller and peripheral economies. This study examines the impact of entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) on value co-creation in SMEs, focusing on the moderating role of marketing innovation. EEs provide SMEs with access to new knowledge, technologies, and financial resources, which support innovation and enhance their competitiveness. Using microdata from the Portuguese Community Innovation Survey (CIS) 2020 and logistic regression models, we investigate how cooperation with key stakeholders (universities, customers, suppliers, consultants, competitors and government agencies) affects the likelihood that SMEs engage in value co-creation with users. The results show that ecosystem cooperation significantly contributes to value co-creation, with cooperation with universities, customers and suppliers exerting the strongest effects. Marketing innovation further strengthens the association between ecosystem cooperation and value co-creation, especially for knowledge-intensive and market-oriented partners. Theoretically, the study extends SDL by applying its multi-actor value co-creation perspective to entrepreneurial ecosystem configurations and specifying how cooperation with distinct actors activates co-creation mechanisms in SMEs. It extends RBV by conceptualising ecosystem cooperation as an externally orchestrated bundle of strategic resources and by positioning marketing innovation as a dynamic capability that shapes the returns to such cooperation. The findings also provide practical guidance for SMEs and policymakers seeking to design ecosystems and marketing strategies that support collaborative innovation in the knowledge economy. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4190 KB  
Article
The Effect of Preliminary Mixing Methods on the Properties of PA6 Composites with Molybdenum Disulphide
by Dmitry Zavrazhin, Tatiana Dyachkova, Artem Obukhov, Mikhail Krasnyanskiy, Elena Burakova, Denis Dedov and Anastasia Chuprikova
Sci 2025, 7(4), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci7040178 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
This study is motivated by the severe tribological regime of PA6 composites in VR platforms operating under dry or boundary lubrication, where alternating shear during foot rotation, localised contact pressures, and third-body abrasion concurrently challenge wear resistance and retention of strength. This paper [...] Read more.
This study is motivated by the severe tribological regime of PA6 composites in VR platforms operating under dry or boundary lubrication, where alternating shear during foot rotation, localised contact pressures, and third-body abrasion concurrently challenge wear resistance and retention of strength. This paper presents the results of research into the properties of composites based on polyamide PA6 and molybdenum disulphide, obtained by combining the components through high-intensity mechanochemical activation in a planetary mill and classical mixing in a turbulence mixer. We demonstrate that varying the energy of the premixing stage (mechanochemical activation versus low-energy premixing) serves as an effective means of interfacial engineering in PA6/MoS2 composites, enabling simultaneous enhancement of mechanical and tribological properties at low filler contents. Analysis of experimental composite samples using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicates the interaction between MoS2 and oxygen-containing groups of polyamide while maintaining its overall chemical composition. According to the TG-DSC curves, modification of polyamide leads to an increase in the melting temperature by 2 °C, while mechanical activation ensures stronger interaction between the matrix and the filler. Compared to pure PA6, the tensile strength of composites increases by 10–20% for mechanoactivated materials and by 5–10% for materials obtained by conventional methods. The mechanical activation effect is observed even at minimal amounts (0.25 and 0.5%) of MoS2 in composites. The toughness of all composites, regardless of the mixing method, increases by 5–7% compared to pure polyamide. All composites show a 10–20% reduction in the coefficient of friction on steel. Simultaneously, the water absorption of composites becomes 5–20% higher than that of the original material, which indicates a change in structure and an increase in porosity. The obtained composite materials are planned to be used for manufacturing platforms for the movement of virtual reality (VR) operators. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 9764 KB  
Review
Recent Advances in Photocatalytic Conversion of Furfural
by Shuo Wang, Yingjie Liu, Zongyang Ya, Shen Yan and Hua Wang
Catalysts 2025, 15(12), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15121132 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
The photocatalytic conversion of biomass-derived furfural (FUR) represents a promising pathway for producing value-added chemicals and fuels in the context of sustainable energy and chemical synthesis. In this case, performance optimization and design of both traditional and novel catalysts are urgently demanded, aiming [...] Read more.
The photocatalytic conversion of biomass-derived furfural (FUR) represents a promising pathway for producing value-added chemicals and fuels in the context of sustainable energy and chemical synthesis. In this case, performance optimization and design of both traditional and novel catalysts are urgently demanded, aiming to provide theoretical guidance and technical support for efficient and selective photocatalytic conversion. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in the photocatalytic conversion of FUR into a range of valuable products, mainly including hydrogenation and oxidation, as well as coupling reactions. Different reaction pathways and catalytic methods are introduced, with emphasis on the performance, advantages, and disadvantages of different catalyst systems. We also outline current challenges and perspectives in this field, as well as directions to inspire further innovation in solar-driven biomass conversion toward a more sustainable chemical industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Conversion of Small Molecules for Energy and Environmental Sustainability)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

49 pages, 6957 KB  
Review
Global Trends in Biotic and Abiotic Stress Mitigation Strategies for Common Bean: A Bibliometric Study
by Wagner Meza-Maicelo, César R. Balcázar-Zumaeta, Henry W. Santillan Culquimboz, Manuel Oliva-Cruz and Flavio Lozano-Isla
Int. J. Plant Biol. 2025, 16(4), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb16040135 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a cornerstone of global food security, yet its production is persistently challenged by biotic and abiotic stresses. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis following PRISMA guidelines on 549 documents published between 1971 and mid-2025, using Biblioshiny, [...] Read more.
Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a cornerstone of global food security, yet its production is persistently challenged by biotic and abiotic stresses. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis following PRISMA guidelines on 549 documents published between 1971 and mid-2025, using Biblioshiny, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. Results reveal a scientific output concentrated in leading institutions such as Michigan State University (MSU, USA) and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT, Colombia). Collaboration networks are dominated by influential authors including Beebe, S. and Kelly, J.D., with Euphytica and Crop Science emerging as primary publication outlets. Research trends highlight salinity tolerance, oxidative stress, and chromosomal mapping, where advanced technologies such as SNP chips have supplanted RAPD markers. Critical challenges remain, including limited phenotyping capacity and the complexity of polygenic resistance, with urgent implications for developing countries where beans are vital for food security but face barriers to technology adoption and restricted participation in global research networks. Concurrently, mitigation strategies have shifted toward sustainable approaches, incorporating beneficial microorganisms for biotic stress and bio-stimulants or plant extracts for abiotic stress. Since 2020, the field has increasingly embraced multifunctional strategies leveraging natural mechanisms to enhance crop resilience. This analysis offers a comprehensive knowledge base to guide future research agendas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic New Challenges on Plant–Microbe Interactions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 2792 KB  
Article
Multimodal Deep Learning Framework for Automated Usability Evaluation of Fashion E-Commerce Sites
by Nahed Alowidi
J. Theor. Appl. Electron. Commer. Res. 2025, 20(4), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/jtaer20040343 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Effective website usability assessment is crucial for improving user experience, driving customer satisfaction, and ensuring business success, particularly in the competitive e-commerce sector. Traditional methods, such as expert reviews and user testing, are resource-intensive and often fail to fully capture the complex interplay [...] Read more.
Effective website usability assessment is crucial for improving user experience, driving customer satisfaction, and ensuring business success, particularly in the competitive e-commerce sector. Traditional methods, such as expert reviews and user testing, are resource-intensive and often fail to fully capture the complex interplay between a site’s aesthetic design and its technical performance. This paper introduces an end-to-end multimodal deep learning framework that automates the usability assessment of fashion e-commerce websites. The framework fuses structured numerical indicators (e.g., load time, mobile compatibility) with high-level visual features extracted from full-page screenshots. The proposed framework employs a comprehensive set of visual backbones—including modern architectures such as ConvNeXt and Vision Transformers (ViT, Swin) alongside established CNNs—and systematically evaluates three fusion strategies: early fusion, late fusion, and a state-of-the-art cross-modal fusion strategy that enables deep, bidirectional interactions between modalities. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the cross-modal fusion approach, particularly when paired with a ConvNeXt backbone, achieves superior performance with a 0.92 accuracy and 0.89 F1-score, outperforming both unimodal and simpler fusion baselines. Model interpretability is provided through SHAP and LIME, confirming that the predictions align with established usability principles and generate actionable insights. Although validated on fashion e-commerce sites, the framework is highly adaptable to other domains—such as e-learning and e-government—via domain-specific data and light fine-tuning. It provides a robust, explainable benchmark for data-driven, multimodal website usability assessment and paves the way for more intelligent, automated user-experience optimization. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 483 KB  
Article
Extensions of Weighted Integral Inequalities for GA-Convex Functions in Connection with Fejér’s Result
by Muhammad Amer Latif
AppliedMath 2025, 5(4), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/appliedmath5040168 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
This study introduces and analyzes several new functionals defined on the interval [0,1], which are associated with weighted integral inequalities for geometrically–arithmetically (GA) convex functions. Building upon the classical Hermite–Hadamard and Fejér inequalities, we define [...] Read more.
This study introduces and analyzes several new functionals defined on the interval [0,1], which are associated with weighted integral inequalities for geometrically–arithmetically (GA) convex functions. Building upon the classical Hermite–Hadamard and Fejér inequalities, we define mappings such as G(u), Hyu, Kyu, Nu, L(u), Ly(u), and Syu, which incorporate a GA-convex function x and a non-negative, integrable weight function y that is symmetric about the geometric mean s1s2. Under these conditions, we establish novel Fejér-type inequalities that connect these functionals. Furthermore, we investigate essential properties of these mappings, including their GA-convexity, monotonicity, and symmetry. The validity of our main results is demonstrated through detailed examples. The findings presented herein provide significant refinements and weighted generalizations of known results in the literature. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

39 pages, 6140 KB  
Review
Recent Advances in Raman Spectroscopy for Resolving Material Surfaces/Interfaces
by Tianyu Wang, Yingnan Jiang, Hongyu Feng, Linlin Liu, Qingsong Deng, Danmin Liu and Cong Wang
Catalysts 2025, 15(12), 1131; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15121131 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Raman spectroscopy has become a key tool for resolving the molecular behavior of interfaces due to its non-invasiveness, fingerprinting ability and in situ detection advantages. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and its derivative techniques (including SHINERS and TERS) have significantly overcome the challenges of [...] Read more.
Raman spectroscopy has become a key tool for resolving the molecular behavior of interfaces due to its non-invasiveness, fingerprinting ability and in situ detection advantages. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and its derivative techniques (including SHINERS and TERS) have significantly overcome the challenges of weak interfacial signals and strong water interference through the synergistic effect of electromagnetic field enhancement and chemical enhancement. They have realized highly sensitive molecular detection at various interfaces such as solid–liquid, gas–liquid, water–oil, and so on. Despite the challenges of substrate stability and signal quantization, the deep integration of multi-technology coupling and theoretical computation will further promote the breakthrough of this technology in interface science. In this review, we systematically review the applications of Raman spectroscopy and SERS techniques in interface resolution, including key research directions such as analyzing interfacial molecular structures, detecting material reactions at water–oil interface, and tracking the evolution of electrochemical interfacial species, as well as exploring the technological bottlenecks and future development directions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spectroscopy in Modern Materials Science and Catalysis)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 276 KB  
Article
Investigating the Relationship Between ESG Disclosure Performance and Audit Fees in the Presence of Institutional Ownership: Evidence from Malaysian Listed Firms
by Yenyen Yip
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2025, 18(12), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm18120688 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Based on the Malaysian market, this study investigates the connection between ESG (environmental, social, and governance) disclosure performance and audit fees and examines whether institutional ownership moderates this relationship. The sample of this study comprises 323 firm-year observations collected from 49 Malaysian publicly [...] Read more.
Based on the Malaysian market, this study investigates the connection between ESG (environmental, social, and governance) disclosure performance and audit fees and examines whether institutional ownership moderates this relationship. The sample of this study comprises 323 firm-year observations collected from 49 Malaysian publicly listed companies covering 2012 to 2020. Panel data regression is employed to test the hypotheses. The findings indicate a significant positive relationship between ESG disclosure performance and audit fees, suggesting that auditors perceive ESG reporting as increasing audit complexity and risk. Further, institutional ownership strengthens this positive relationship, indicating that sophisticated investors’ monitoring roles lead to more thorough auditing of ESG disclosures. Our primary contribution is resolving mixed findings in prior literature by identifying institutional ownership as a key moderating variable. The findings offer critical insights for Malaysian regulators in designing the ESG verification framework and help companies and investors better understand audit cost drivers. This study highlights the real-world impact of institutional shareholders on corporate governance and raises market awareness of how auditors respond to sustainability disclosures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technology, Corporate Governance Disclosure and Corporate Social Responsibility)
41 pages, 3943 KB  
Article
When AI Chatbots Ask for Donations: The Construal Level Contingency of AI Persuasion Effectiveness in Charity Human–Chatbot Interaction
by Jin Sun and Jia Si
J. Theor. Appl. Electron. Commer. Res. 2025, 20(4), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/jtaer20040341 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
As AI chatbots are increasingly used in digital fundraising, it remains unclear which communication strategies are more effective in enhancing consumer trust and donation behavior. Drawing on construal level theory and adopting a human-AI interaction perspective, this research examines how message framing in [...] Read more.
As AI chatbots are increasingly used in digital fundraising, it remains unclear which communication strategies are more effective in enhancing consumer trust and donation behavior. Drawing on construal level theory and adopting a human-AI interaction perspective, this research examines how message framing in AI-mediated persuasive communication shapes trust and donation willingness. Across four studies, we find that when AI chatbots employ high-level construal (abstract) message framing, consumers perceive the information as less credible compared to when the same message is delivered by a human agent. This reduced message credibility weakens trust in the charitable organization through a trust transfer mechanism, ultimately lowering donation intention. Conversely, low-level construal (concrete) framing enhances both trust and donation willingness. Moreover, the negative impact of abstract message framing by AI chatbots is significantly attenuated when the chatbot features anthropomorphic visual cues, which increase perceived credibility and restore trust and donation willingness. These findings reveal potential risks in deploying AI chatbots for interactive fundraising marketing and offer practical insights for nonprofit organizations seeking to leverage AI in donor engagement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Innovations in New Media: Shaping the Future of Interactive Marketing)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

38 pages, 3741 KB  
Article
Hybrid Convolutional Vision Transformer for Robust Low-Channel sEMG Hand Gesture Recognition: A Comparative Study with CNNs
by Ruthber Rodriguez Serrezuela, Roberto Sagaro Zamora, Daily Milanes Hermosilla, Andres Eduardo Rivera Gomez and Enrique Marañon Reyes
Biomimetics 2025, 10(12), 806; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10120806 (registering DOI) - 3 Dec 2025
Abstract
Hand gesture classification using surface electromyography (sEMG) is fundamental for prosthetic control and human–machine interaction. However, most existing studies focus on high-density recordings or large gesture sets, leaving limited evidence on performance in low-channel, reduced-gesture configurations. This study addresses this gap by comparing [...] Read more.
Hand gesture classification using surface electromyography (sEMG) is fundamental for prosthetic control and human–machine interaction. However, most existing studies focus on high-density recordings or large gesture sets, leaving limited evidence on performance in low-channel, reduced-gesture configurations. This study addresses this gap by comparing a classical convolutional neural network (CNN), inspired by Atzori’s design, with a Convolutional Vision Transformer (CViT) tailored for compact sEMG systems. Two datasets were evaluated: a proprietary Myo-based collection (10 subjects, 8 channels, six gestures) and a subset of NinaPro DB3 (11 transradial amputees, 12 channels, same gestures). Both models were trained using standardized preprocessing, segmentation, and balanced windowing procedures. Results show that the CNN performs robustly on homogeneous signals (Myo: 94.2% accuracy) but exhibits increased variability in amputee recordings (NinaPro: 92.0%). In contrast, the CViT consistently matches or surpasses the CNN, reaching 96.6% accuracy on Myo and 94.2% on NinaPro. Statistical analyses confirm significant differences in the Myo dataset. The objective of this work is to determine whether hybrid CNN–ViT architectures provide superior robustness and generalization under low-channel sEMG conditions. Rather than proposing a new architecture, this study delivers the first systematic benchmark of CNN and CViT models across amputee and non-amputee subjects using short windows, heterogeneous signals, and identical protocols, highlighting their suitability for compact prosthetic–control systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Biomimetic Advances in Signal and Image Processing for Biomedical Applications 2025)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

10 pages, 983 KB  
Article
Inheritance of Calyx Abscission in Apple: A Trait with Potential Impact on Fruit Rot Susceptibility
by Matthias Pfeifer, Andreas Peil, Henryk Flachowsky and Thomas Wöhner
Plants 2025, 14(23), 3674; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14233674 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
Fruit rots, both pre- and postharvest, represent a major problem in apple production, leading to significant yield losses each year. In this study, the inheritance of calyx abscission, a trait that could potentially reduce susceptibility to various fruit rots, was investigated in an [...] Read more.
Fruit rots, both pre- and postharvest, represent a major problem in apple production, leading to significant yield losses each year. In this study, the inheritance of calyx abscission, a trait that could potentially reduce susceptibility to various fruit rots, was investigated in an F1 population. Calyx persistence rates were phenotyped in the field in 2023 and 2025 on 122 offspring derived from a cross between ‘Idared’ and Malus baccata ‘Jackii’, the latter exhibiting complete calyx abscission. QTL analyses were conducted using genotypic data and a genetic linkage map generated in a previous study. Results show, for the first time in apple, that calyx abscission is a heritable trait influenced by multiple loci, with the strongest effects detected on linkage groups 5 and 13. Whether calyx abscission is linked to reduced susceptibility to fruit rots, and for which pathogens this applies, remains to be investigated in future studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural Science and Ornamental Plants)
31 pages, 7589 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Effects of Climate Change on the Thermal Performance of Residential Buildings in Hot and Arid Regions
by Khaoula Amraoui, Sara Ouanes, Safa Daich, Imadeddine Reghiss, Silvia Di Turi, Roberto Stasi and Francesco Ruggiero
Buildings 2025, 15(23), 4378; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15234378 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
The main challenge for the scientific community is to mitigate climate change impacts while reducing energy consumption, without compromising comfort and quality of life. Buildings in hot climates require specific design strategies to limit the effects of extreme weather and heat waves. Standardized [...] Read more.
The main challenge for the scientific community is to mitigate climate change impacts while reducing energy consumption, without compromising comfort and quality of life. Buildings in hot climates require specific design strategies to limit the effects of extreme weather and heat waves. Standardized modern buildings, often unsuitable for hot and arid climates, lead to high energy consumption, mainly due to cooling systems, causing both discomfort and energy inefficiency. Previous studies have shown that solutions inspired by local vernacular architecture are often more effective than conventional construction techniques. This paper investigates the thermal response and discomfort intensity in two building models exposed to various climate scenarios: a typical modern residential building and a bioclimatic vernacular-inspired building. The analysis is conducted through dynamic thermal simulations under current as well as future medium- and long-term climate change scenarios. The study evaluates the buildings’ ability to adapt to future environmental changes, an aspect that has not yet been studied in depth. Results show that contemporary buildings experience significantly higher levels of thermal discomfort than vernacular buildings under both present (TMY) and future (SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5, 2080) climate conditions. Results show that under the present climate, the vernacular building exhibits about 22% fewer discomfort hours than the contemporary one and roughly half the overheating integrated degree-hours. Under future scenarios, overheating increases by 25.8% to 67.7% in the contemporary building and 36.1% to 89.6% in the vernacular building, yet the vernacular building consistently maintains substantially lower discomfort levels. Overall, vernacular inspired envelopes remain more resilient to warming in all scenarios, but additional adaptation measures are required to ensure acceptable summer comfort by late century. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Indoor Environment Comfort in Buildings)
13 pages, 259 KB  
Article
Mapping the Associations Between Body Mass Index and Key Psychosocial Determinants: Resilience, Perceived Stress, and Emotion Regulation in Young Adults—A Cross-Sectional Study
by Boris Tilov, Pavel Stanchev, Mariya Dimitrova, Meri Hristamyan and Desislava Makakova-Tilova
Healthcare 2025, 13(23), 3150; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13233150 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
Background: Obesity and overweight are escalating global public health concerns. This study examined the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and psychological factors in young adults. Methods: A total of 283 participants aged 19–30 years were categorized by BMI (normal weight, overweight, obesity) [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity and overweight are escalating global public health concerns. This study examined the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and psychological factors in young adults. Methods: A total of 283 participants aged 19–30 years were categorized by BMI (normal weight, overweight, obesity) using self-reported data. Psychological assessments included the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), and Buss–Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ), all with acceptable reliability. Individuals with psychiatric, neurological, or chronic somatic conditions were excluded. Analyses involved MANOVA, ANOVA, ANCOVA, and hierarchical regression, controlling for gender, physical activity, smoking, caffeine, alcohol, medication, and sleep disturbances. Results: MANOVA showed a near-significant multivariate effect of BMI on psychological variables (Wilks’ Lambda = 0.913, p = 0.068). ANOVA revealed significant differences in perceived stress among BMI groups (F (2, 279) = 3.796, p = 0.024), with obese participants reporting lower stress. Hierarchical regression identified perceived stress as the strongest predictor of BMI, followed by resilience and physical aggression. General aggression was negatively associated with BMI, suggesting potential compensatory mechanisms. Conclusions: Perceived stress and resilience showed small but significant associations with BMI in young adults, suggesting a modest contribution of psychological factors to weight-related health. Full article
25 pages, 6836 KB  
Article
Trastuzumab-Conjugated pH-Sensitive Micelles Exhibit Antitumor Activity and Induce Mesenchymal-to-Epithelial Transition in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Lines
by Crina Elena Tiron, Gabriel Luta, Razvan Ghiarasim, Adrian Tiron, Valentin Nastasa, Dragos Constantin Anita, Tore Geir Iversen, Tore Skotland, Kirsten Sandvig, Mihai Mares and Mihail-Gabriel Dimofte
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(12), 1554; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17121554 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
Background: Despite improved knowledge on cancer prevention, progression, and treatment, the incidence of cancer is still increasing. Patients with highly aggressive triple-negative breast cancer benefit from chemotherapy as the only systemic therapeutic alternative. Here, we performed studies that demonstrate the effects of trastuzumab [...] Read more.
Background: Despite improved knowledge on cancer prevention, progression, and treatment, the incidence of cancer is still increasing. Patients with highly aggressive triple-negative breast cancer benefit from chemotherapy as the only systemic therapeutic alternative. Here, we performed studies that demonstrate the effects of trastuzumab linked to nanostructures with pH-dependent release on triple-negative models. Methods: We assessed in vitro cell proliferation, migration, invasion, mammospheres, spheroids, and organoid formation of human and murine cell lines. Balb/c mice were used to investigate the in vivo anti-tumoral effects of functionalized nanostructures. Ex vivo samples and cell lines were used to investigate, using immunohistochemistry and Western blot, the modulation of key molecular pathways. Results: Using a human normal cell line and human and murine triple-negative breast cancer cell lines, we found that trastuzumab exhibits anti-tumoral properties on triple-negative breast cancer cell lines only when linked to pH-sensitive micelles. In addition, the data demonstrates that functionalized micelles induce mesenchymal-to-epithelial transitions, impairing the metastasis. Conclusions: Taken together, these results indicate that functionalization of micelles by linking trastuzumab may open the way of treating triple-negative patients with trastuzumab, a treatment which is currently in use for patients with Her2 overexpression. The functionalized micelles may be loaded with various molecules to further improve the anti-tumoral effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomedical Applications of Nanocarriers in Targeted Delivery of Bioactive Compounds)
12 pages, 271 KB  
Article
Discrimination Among Disabled Adults in the United States: Findings from the 2022 National Survey on Health and Disability
by Abby Mulcahy, Elizabeth K. Schmidt, Darcy Jones McMaughan, Kelsey Shinnick Goddard, Katie Batza, Anna Marie Wallisch, Carl G. Streed, Noelle K. Kurth and Jean P. Hall
Disabilities 2025, 5(4), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities5040110 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
Disabled people face discrimination in healthcare settings, yet the compounding effects of intersectional identities remain underexplored. This project examines how different types of discrimination affect healthcare access and outcomes. We conducted a cross-sectional study of disability-based, race-based, gender-based, and sexuality-based discrimination using the [...] Read more.
Disabled people face discrimination in healthcare settings, yet the compounding effects of intersectional identities remain underexplored. This project examines how different types of discrimination affect healthcare access and outcomes. We conducted a cross-sectional study of disability-based, race-based, gender-based, and sexuality-based discrimination using the 2022 National Survey on Health and Disability (NSHD; n = 2725) administered October 2021–January 2022. Measures used in this study include: (1) demographics; (2) types of discrimination; (3) unmet healthcare needs. Our sample was not nationally representative, as it consisted primarily of white, college-educated participants. Data were analyzed using summary statistics (STATA crosstab) among respondents with health insurance (n = 2566). Chi-squared tests were used to determine statistical significance. We fit logistic regression models for categorical responses (STATA logit), adjusting for participant characteristics. Some participants (41%; n = 2566) reported experiencing at least one form of discrimination, with 4.9% reporting race-, 15.08% gender-, 5.9% sexuality-, and 38.3% disability-based discrimination. Most participants (94%; n= 2412) reported at least one unmet healthcare need, from unmet prostheses (2.6%) to unmet dental care (34.8%). Compared with other care types, participants had the lowest odds ratio (OR = 0.38, p < 0.001) of having their preventive care or specialist care needs met. These findings highlight that discrimination contributes to disparities in particular areas of healthcare access and emphasizes a need for tailored interventions and additional research. Full article
20 pages, 491 KB  
Article
Institutional Stimulants for Low-Carbon Transport: The Case of the Fleet Electrification in the Polish Logistics Industry
by Anna Wronka, Marta Raźniewska, Agata Rudnicka and Grażyna Kędzia
Energies 2025, 18(23), 6339; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18236339 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
The aim of the paper is to recognize the role of external institutions in supporting the Transport, Shipping, and Logistics (TSL) sector in the transformation towards sustainable and low-emission operations in Poland. In the context of the EU’s decarbonization agenda and accelerating climate [...] Read more.
The aim of the paper is to recognize the role of external institutions in supporting the Transport, Shipping, and Logistics (TSL) sector in the transformation towards sustainable and low-emission operations in Poland. In the context of the EU’s decarbonization agenda and accelerating climate challenges, the study explores how regulatory, financial, and normative mechanisms affect the electrification of transport fleets. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining qualitative content analysis of European and national policy frameworks with a quantitative CATI survey among logistics enterprises. The results reveal that legal and normative instruments remain the dominant institutional drivers of fleet electrification, while fiscal incentives—subsidies and tax reliefs—play a supportive but still secondary role. Sectoral and financial pressures from banks and market stakeholders are emerging as new, complementary forces of change. Firm size, ownership structure, and market scope significantly moderate these perceptions. The paper contributes to institutional and innovation-diffusion theory and offers policy insights for designing coherent and multi-level frameworks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management of Energy Resources, Energy Strategies and Climate Change: 3rd Edition)
22 pages, 6161 KB  
Article
Experimental Study on Dynamic Characteristics of Cemented Tailings Backfill Under Different Tailings Gradation
by Deqing Gan, Hongbao Li and Zhiyi Liu
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(23), 12778; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152312778 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
The stability of cemented tailings backfill (CTB) is influenced by mining disturbance. As a property of CTB, tailings gradation (TG) is one of the factors that change its mechanical properties. Taking tailings gradation, impact amplitude, and curing age as variables, this paper focuses [...] Read more.
The stability of cemented tailings backfill (CTB) is influenced by mining disturbance. As a property of CTB, tailings gradation (TG) is one of the factors that change its mechanical properties. Taking tailings gradation, impact amplitude, and curing age as variables, this paper focuses on the characteristics of the influence of curing age on the failure deformation, strength evolution, failure mode, and microstructure of CTB. The results show that with the average particle size of the tailings from coarse to fine, the peak stress and elastic modulus of CTB first decrease and then increase. The increase in curing age and impact amplitude can improve the elastic deformation capacity of CTB. During the post-peak phase, the stress–strain curve undergoes sequential morphological transitions, evolving from the initial “stress drop” characteristics through “post-peak plasticity” manifestations before ultimately demonstrating “post-peak ductility” behavior. This progression corresponds to CTB’s material transformation pathway, commencing as a rigid substance that first transitions into a plastic-brittle composite, subsequently develops plastic properties, and finally attains ductile material characteristics. The TG changes from T1 to T4, and the failure mode of CTB gradually changes from composite failure and shear failure to tension failure and composite failure. A CTB strength prediction model based on TG is proposed. The R2 of the model is 0.997, F = 12,855, and p < 0.001, which has high applicability. As tailings vary from T1/T2 to T4, AFt content progressively decreases, the C-S-H gel transitions from a 3D network to a flocculent structure, and the skeleton shifts from coarse to fine particles, leading to increased porosity but smaller pores. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Property Optimization of Backfill Materials for the Mining Industry)
13 pages, 571 KB  
Review
The Gut–Muscle–Immune Axis in Motion: Mechanistic Synergies of SCFA Metabolism, Exercise, and Microbial Cross-Feeding
by Fritz Réka, Bere Zsófia, Bóday Ádám and Fritz Péter
Nutrients 2025, 17(23), 3786; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17233786 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
Background: The gut microbiota plays a fundamental role in metabolic and immune homeostasis through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These metabolites influence mitochondrial biogenesis, muscle energetics, epithelial barrier stability, and inflammatory regulation via G-protein-coupled receptors, AMPK–PGC-1α signaling, and epigenetic remodeling. Objective: [...] Read more.
Background: The gut microbiota plays a fundamental role in metabolic and immune homeostasis through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These metabolites influence mitochondrial biogenesis, muscle energetics, epithelial barrier stability, and inflammatory regulation via G-protein-coupled receptors, AMPK–PGC-1α signaling, and epigenetic remodeling. Objective: This review synthesizes current evidence on the gut–muscle–immune axis, emphasizing how dietary fermentable substrates, microbial cross-feeding interactions, and structured exercise modulate SCFA production and shape host physiological adaptation. Methods: We integrated findings from human and animal studies, multi-omic analyses, metabolomic and microbiome research, and exercise physiology to outline mechanistic links between microbial metabolism and systemic resilience. Results: Key mechanistic pathways connecting dietary fiber fermentation to mitochondrial function, redox regulation, immune homeostasis, and metabolic plasticity are summarized. We further present the Targeted Gut Protocol 2.0, a conceptual 12-week framework combining fiber-diversity targets, lactate-guided exercise periodization, biomarker monitoring, and adaptive feedback mechanisms to enhance endogenous SCFA availability. Conclusion: SCFA-driven metabolic plasticity provides an integrative model through which lifestyle behaviors can modulate host physiology. Future research should prioritize standardized sampling approaches, causal inference methods, multi-omic integration, and AI-supported personalization to refine mechanistic understanding and strengthen translational potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Exercise and Diet on Health)
11 pages, 398 KB  
Article
Temporal Associations Between Sport Participation, Dropout from Sports, and Mental Health Indicators: A Two-Year Follow-Up Study
by Reidar Säfvenbom, Tommy Haugen, Vidar Sandsaunet Ulset and Andreas Ivarsson
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1665; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121665 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
Participation in organized sports may have a positive effect on mental health, but documentation is based on methodological limitations. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of dropout from organized youth sport on change in mental health and subjective well-being. [...] Read more.
Participation in organized sports may have a positive effect on mental health, but documentation is based on methodological limitations. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of dropout from organized youth sport on change in mental health and subjective well-being. A total of 1046 young persons (13–18 years old), all participating in organized sport at baseline, were included. Data on mental health and subjective well-being were collected at baseline and again after two years. Participants who were into organized sports and participants who reported other types of informal movement activity two years later reported less increase in negative affect over time compared to participants who had dropped out of sports and did not get involved in other types of movement activity. For positive affect, there was a credible difference in change between those who dropped out of organized sport but did not get involved in an alternative physical activity and those who were still active in organized sports. The results indicate that dropout from traditional youth sports might have a negative influence on well-being, but involvement in other types of informal and negotiable movement contexts might buffer the potential negative effects. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure A1

29 pages, 39944 KB  
Article
HDR-IRSTD: Detection-Driven HDR Infrared Image Enhancement and Small Target Detection Based on HDR Infrared Image Enhancement
by Fugui Guo, Pan Chen, Weiwei Zhao and Weichao Wang
Automation 2025, 6(4), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/automation6040086 (registering DOI) - 2 Dec 2025
Abstract
Infrared small target detection has become a research hotspot in recent years. Due to the small target size and low contrast with the background, it remains a highly challenging task. Existing infrared small target detection algorithms are generally implemented on 8-bit low dynamic [...] Read more.
Infrared small target detection has become a research hotspot in recent years. Due to the small target size and low contrast with the background, it remains a highly challenging task. Existing infrared small target detection algorithms are generally implemented on 8-bit low dynamic range (LDR) images, whereas raw infrared sensing images typically possess a 14–16 bit high dynamic range (HDR). Conventional HDR image enhancement methods do not consider the subsequent detection task. As a result, the enhanced LDR images often suffer from overexposure, increased noise levels with higher contrast, and target distortion or loss. Consequently, discriminative features in HDR images that are beneficial for detection are not effectively exploited, which further increases the difficulty of small target detection. To extract target features under these conditions, existing detection algorithms usually rely on large parameter models, leading to an unsatisfactory trade-off between efficiency and accuracy. To address these issues, this paper proposes a novel infrared small target detection framework based on HDR image enhancement (HDR-IRSTD). Specifically, a multi-branch feature extraction and fusion mapping subnetwork (MFEF-Net) is designed to achieve the mapping from HDR to LDR. This subnetwork effectively enhances small targets and suppresses noise while preserving both detailed features and global information. Furthermore, considering the characteristics of infrared small targets, an asymmetric Vision Mamba U-Net with multi-level inputs (AVM-Unet) is developed, which captures contextual information effectively while maintaining linear computational complexity. During training, a bilevel optimization strategy is adopted to collaboratively optimize the two subnetworks, thereby yielding optimal parameters for both HDR infrared image enhancement and small target detection. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves visually favorable enhancement and high-precision detection, with strong generalization ability and robustness. The performance and efficiency of the method exhibit a well-balanced trade-off. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

More Articles...

Open Access Journals

► Browse by Indexing ► Browse by Subject ► Selected Journals
Explore All Journals...

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

More Books and Reprints...

News

2 December 2025
MDPI INSIGHTS: The CEO's Letter #29 - Environmental Medicine, MDPI in the News, SPF 2025, I3S 2025, Cancers
28 November 2025
MDPI’s 2024 Best PhD Thesis Awards—Winners Announced
25 November 2025
MDPI Editors Named Highly Cited Researchers in 2025
More News & Announcements...

Blog Posts

More From Our Blog...

Topics

More Topics...
loading...

Selected Special Issues

Selected Collections

Back to TopTop