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25 pages, 6089 KB  
Article
Pore Structure Analysis of Growing Media Using X-Ray Microcomputed Tomography
by Hadi Hamaaziz Muhammed, Ruediger Anlauf, Diemo Daum, Mayka Schmitt Rahner and Katrin Kuka
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(22), 11886; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152211886 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the representative elementary volume (REV) for visible porosity in horticultural growing media (peat, commercial mixture, treated wood fibre/peat, pure wood fibre) using x-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT) with 2D and 3D image division, pore morphology, water retention curve (WRC), and saturated [...] Read more.
This study investigated the representative elementary volume (REV) for visible porosity in horticultural growing media (peat, commercial mixture, treated wood fibre/peat, pure wood fibre) using x-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT) with 2D and 3D image division, pore morphology, water retention curve (WRC), and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) via pore network modelling (PNM). Two sample sizes (10 × 10 cm, 3 × 3 cm, height × diameter) with resolutions of 46 and 15 µm were analysed. REV was assessed using deterministic (dREV) and statistical (sREV) criteria, evaluating the porosity and coefficient of variation across subvolumes. The results showed that 3D division of large samples achieved REV only for pure wood fibre (8000–10,000 µm), while 2D division met both criteria for all media. For small samples, 3D division achieved REV only for wood fibre/peat mixture, but 2D division succeeded for all media above 3000 µm. Pore analyses indicated that pure wood fibre had the largest, most connected pores, enhancing drainage, while peat showed complex, retentive structures. WRCs aligned well with lab data (R2 > 0.88). PNM Ksat estimates from small images were more accurate, with discrepancies (21–172%) due to segmentation artefacts. Future studies should incorporate permeability or tortuosity and explore multiscale imaging for improved hydrophysical predictions. This study also highlights advantages unique to X-ray µCT compared to standard laboratory methods, e.g., direct three-dimensional quantification of pore structure parameters and an image-based determination of the REV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Physics General)
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12 pages, 354 KB  
Article
Association Between MMR Status and Prognostic Pathological Factors in Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer—A Single-Center Retrospective Study
by Cezary Miedziarek, Hubert Bochyński, Katarzyna Bociańska, Michał Potograbski, Piotr Tyburski, Mikołaj Piotr Zaborowski and Ewa Nowak-Markwitz
Cancers 2025, 17(22), 3605; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17223605 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Prognostic assessment in endometrial cancer (EC) is based on clinical and pathological features such as histological type, FIGO stage, tumor grade, LVSI, P53 status, and hormone receptor expression. Recent molecular research has distinguished four EC subtypes, with MMR status (pMMR vs. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Prognostic assessment in endometrial cancer (EC) is based on clinical and pathological features such as histological type, FIGO stage, tumor grade, LVSI, P53 status, and hormone receptor expression. Recent molecular research has distinguished four EC subtypes, with MMR status (pMMR vs. dMMR) providing clinically relevant stratification due to its predictive value for immunotherapy. The present study aims to compare dMMR and pMMR tumors in terms of the prevalence of adverse histopathological prognostic factors. Methods: This retrospective study included 179 patients with endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC) treated at the authors’ institution (1 January 2023–31 August 2025). Patients were classified by MMR status (pMMR vs. dMMR) based on immunohistochemistry, and clinicopathological variables, including FIGO stage, myometrial invasion depth, tumor grade, LVSI, ER/PR expression, and P53 status, were analyzed. Normality was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test. Categorical variables were tested with chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests, reporting odds ratios with 95% CI, while continuous variables were compared using the Mann–Whitney test and presented as median (IQR) with the Hodges–Lehmann difference and 95% CI. Multivariable logistic regression with Wald tests was performed. Results: dMMR tumors accounted for 29.05% of all cases. Patients in the dMMR group were significantly more likely to present with FIGO stage III/IV disease (p = 0.036) and to exhibit LVSI (p = 0.008). No differences were observed between the groups with respect to tumor grade, estrogen receptor positivity, progesterone receptor positivity, or the prevalence of deep myometrial invasion. The most frequent pattern of protein loss in the dMMR population was concurrent loss of MLH1 and PMS2. Conclusions: In the studied population, dMMR tumors more frequently exhibited adverse prognostic features of EC, such as advanced stage of disease and lymphovascular space invasion. This suggests the potential for effective immunotherapy in this patient group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Pathophysiology)
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15 pages, 1810 KB  
Article
Hierarchical Allocation of Grid-Following and Grid-Forming Devices for Oscillation Stability Enhancement in Renewable Energy Plants
by Junchao Ma, Jianing Liu, Zhimin Cui, Yan Peng, Wen Hua and Qianhao Sun
Symmetry 2025, 17(11), 1912; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17111912 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
The oscillation stability of renewable energy plants under varying grid strengths can be improved through the optimized allocation of grid-following (GFL) and grid-forming (GFM) power converter devices. However, in practical operation, the wide variations in both the output of renewable energy plants and [...] Read more.
The oscillation stability of renewable energy plants under varying grid strengths can be improved through the optimized allocation of grid-following (GFL) and grid-forming (GFM) power converter devices. However, in practical operation, the wide variations in both the output of renewable energy plants and the strength of the grid present significant challenges in simultaneously ensuring stability, economic efficiency, and robustness. To address this, this paper proposes a two-level optimization method for the allocation of GFL and GFM devices, aiming to enhance oscillation stability in renewable energy plants. The method considers the complementary dynamic behaviors of GFL and GFM strategies, whose complementary dynamic behaviors contribute to balanced and stable operation. The upper-level optimization model accounts for the wide range of variability in renewable plant outputs, with the primary objective and constraint being the assurance of oscillation stability under low short-circuit ratio (SCR) conditions at a minimal cost. Based on the GFM configuration determined by the upper-level model, the lower-level optimization model further evaluates the upper SCR limit within which oscillation stability can still be maintained. This prevents instability that may arise from GFM devices operating under high-SCR conditions. By iteratively solving the upper- and lower-level models, an optimized GFL-GFM allocation strategy is obtained, which ensures oscillation stability across a wide SCR range while balancing cost-effectiveness and practical operability. Case studies are also conducted to validate the method. It is indicated that when SCR = 1.5, configuring 15% of the wind generators in the GFM strategy can ensure stability of the wind plant across typical operating scenarios, while when SCR > 3, switching these generators to the GFL strategy can likewise avoid the oscillation issues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry in Digitalisation of Distribution Power System)
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20 pages, 1483 KB  
Article
Integrating Geological Domains into Machine Learning for Ore Grade Prediction: A Case Study from a Porphyry Copper Deposit
by Mohammad Maleki, Nadia Mery, Saed Soltani-Mohammadi, Jordan Plaza-Carvajal and Emmanouil A. Varouchakis
Minerals 2025, 15(11), 1175; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15111175 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Accurate grade prediction in porphyry copper deposits requires not only capturing spatial continuity but also accounting for geological controls. This study evaluates the added value of incorporating alteration and mineralization domains into machine learning (ML) models for copper grade estimation at the Iju [...] Read more.
Accurate grade prediction in porphyry copper deposits requires not only capturing spatial continuity but also accounting for geological controls. This study evaluates the added value of incorporating alteration and mineralization domains into machine learning (ML) models for copper grade estimation at the Iju porphyry Cu deposit, Iran. We compare four scenarios: spatial coordinates only, coordinates + alteration, coordinates + mineralization, and coordinates + both domains. A three-stage workflow was developed, in which Random Forest classifiers—optimized with Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO-RF)—classify alteration and mineralization zones, which are later integrated into regression models for ore grade prediction. Model performance was assessed using nested spatial cross-validation and benchmarked against Support Vector Machines (SVM). In comparative analysis, the PSO-RF framework consistently outperformed SVM, achieving more balanced accuracy between training and testing data and demonstrating greater robustness to class imbalance in domain classification. Moreover, results show that combining alteration and mineralization domains improves predictive performance (R2 = 0.78; RMSE was reduced by 5.6% relative to coordinates-only). Although numerically moderate, this reduction in error translates into more reliable tonnage and grade estimations near cut-off grades, thereby enhancing the economic confidence of resource evaluations. These findings demonstrate that integrating multiple geological domains can improve both the accuracy and interpretability of ML-based grade models, providing a practical and reproducible workflow for porphyry copper resource evaluation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Mineral Resource Characterization Using Machine Learning)
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23 pages, 424 KB  
Article
Excessive Screen Time Among U.S. High School Students: Mental Health, Suicidal Ideation and Social Image Factors
by Satomi Imai, Austin Close, Tatiana Jones and Katherine Jones
Healthcare 2025, 13(22), 2833; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13222833 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Adolescents’ screen time has increased alongside rising rates of depression and suicidal ideation and behavior. This study examined associations between excessive screen time and mental health among U.S. high school students, and explored whether social image factors (overweight perception, sports team participation, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Adolescents’ screen time has increased alongside rising rates of depression and suicidal ideation and behavior. This study examined associations between excessive screen time and mental health among U.S. high school students, and explored whether social image factors (overweight perception, sports team participation, and academic performance) mitigate these associations. Methods: We analyzed data from the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) (N = 13,677). Screen time was categorized as <2, 2–3, ≥4 h per day for television watching and digital device use (excluding school-related use). Multivariate logistic regression analyses estimated adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between screen time and mental health outcomes, adjusting for demographic and social image factors. Results: Overall, 31.7% of students reported using digital devices for ≥4 h per day, compared with 10.2% who watched television for ≥4 h per day. Using digital devices for ≥4 h per day was significantly associated with difficulty concentrating (AOR = 1.68), insufficient sleep (AOR = 1.43), feeling sad or hopeless (AOR = 1.86), and suicidal ideation (AOR = 1.69 for considering suicide; AOR = 1.77 for planning suicide) compared with using digital devices for <2 h per day, after adjusting for demographic and social image factors. Significant associations between television viewing and mental health outcomes appeared to be largely explained by social image factors. Female students and certain racial/ethnic groups were more likely to report mental health difficulties. Students with a positive social image reported lower odds of poor mental health outcomes and excessive screen time. Conclusions: Excessive digital device use is associated with poor mental health and suicidal ideation among high school students, with female students particularly vulnerable. Social image factors were also associated with screen time and mental health outcomes. Interventions that promote school engagement, sports team participation, and a positive social image may help mitigate the adverse effects of excessive screen time. Full article
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25 pages, 7607 KB  
Article
Flame Speciation and Laminar Burning Velocity of Tetralin Flames Under Atmospheric Pressure
by Vladislav V. Matyushkov, Anatoly A. Chernov, Mikhail V. Novikov, Ksenia N. Osipova, Tatyana A. Bolshova, Artëm M. Dmitriev, Denis A. Knyazkov and Andrey G. Shmakov
Energies 2025, 18(22), 5878; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18225878 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
We present a combined experimental and modeling study of premixed atmospheric-pressure tetralin flames. Chemical speciation in near-stoichiometric (φ = 0.8–1.0) tetralin/O2/Ar flames was characterized by probe-sampling molecular-beam mass spectrometry (MBMS) with soft ionization (12.3–18 eV). Total ionization cross-sections (TICSs) for heavy [...] Read more.
We present a combined experimental and modeling study of premixed atmospheric-pressure tetralin flames. Chemical speciation in near-stoichiometric (φ = 0.8–1.0) tetralin/O2/Ar flames was characterized by probe-sampling molecular-beam mass spectrometry (MBMS) with soft ionization (12.3–18 eV). Total ionization cross-sections (TICSs) for heavy intermediates were computed ab initio to enable quantitative MBMS processing. Laminar burning velocities (LBVs) of tetralin/air flames were measured in a range of equivalence ratios (φ = 0.75–1.5) on a nozzle burner via the stretch-corrected total area method. This is the first reported LBV data for tetralin/air flames (maximum LBV was 47.3 ± 2 cm/s at φ = 1.1). The experimental mole fraction profiles and LBVs were interpreted using three detailed mechanisms. None of the mechanisms were able to correctly describe the LBV profile, and a number of discrepancies were observed in the mole fraction profiles. Reaction network and sensitivity analyses were performed to identify specific sub-mechanisms requiring refinement. In particular, the subchemistry of naphthalene and indene strongly affects the accuracy of model predictions, whereas the flame speciation data indicate large uncertainties in the simulated concentrations of these species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section I2: Energy and Combustion Science)
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14 pages, 3277 KB  
Article
Enhancing River Waste Detection with Deep Learning and Preprocessing: A Case Study in the Urban Canals of the Chao Phraya River
by Maiyatat Nunkhaw, Detchphol Chitwatkulsiri and Hitoshi Miyamoto
Water 2025, 17(22), 3193; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17223193 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Plastic waste in river systems represents a major pathway of marine pollution, with rivers estimated to contribute up to 80% of the plastic entering the ocean. This study introduces a deep learning framework with preprocessing for automated detection and tracking of floating plastic [...] Read more.
Plastic waste in river systems represents a major pathway of marine pollution, with rivers estimated to contribute up to 80% of the plastic entering the ocean. This study introduces a deep learning framework with preprocessing for automated detection and tracking of floating plastic waste (macroplastics) in the urban canals of the Chao Phraya River, Thailand. Unlike previous approaches that rely on site-specific retraining or model modification, our method employs a YOLO-based detection model integrated with DeepSORT (Deep Simple Online and Realtime Tracking). The model, initially trained on laboratory flume images, was adapted to real river conditions through a three-step preprocessing pipeline comprising skew correction, background removal, and object region extraction. Experiments on 2000 canal images demonstrated that preprocessing improved the mean Average Precision (mAP) from 0.74 to 0.85, with notable gains for categories such as foam and paper. Testing with a more advanced YOLO architecture further enhanced accuracy, indicating that preprocessing and model upgrades are complementary. These findings suggest that reliable detection and quantification of floating waste can be achieved without retraining. The proposed framework provides a scalable and cost-effective solution for monitoring in data-limited regions, contributing to efforts to mitigate riverine and marine plastic pollution. Future work will address the remaining limitations, as detection performance is still influenced by strong reflections, motion blur, and occlusion, occasionally resulting in missed detections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Water Science: Opportunities, Prospects, and Concerns)
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12 pages, 3194 KB  
Article
Development of a Drug Delivery System Using a Compound Based on Ethyl Cyanoacrylate and Hancornia speciosa (Gomes) in a Rat Calvaria Model
by Daniel Felipe Fernandes Paiva, Marco Antonio Tridapalli Mafra, Victor Augusto Benedicto dos Santos, Sidney Raimundo Figueroba, Anne Caroline Gercina Carvalho Dantas, Klinger de Souza Amorim, Francisco Haiter Neto, Camila Batista da Silva and Francisco Carlos Groppo
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(11), 1695; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18111695 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Regenerating critical-sized bone defects is a significant clinical challenge. Autogenous bone grafts are the gold standard but have limitations, including donor site morbidity. As an alternative, this study introduces a novel biocomposite combining an ethyl cyanoacrylate (ECA) polymer with Hancornia speciosa [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Regenerating critical-sized bone defects is a significant clinical challenge. Autogenous bone grafts are the gold standard but have limitations, including donor site morbidity. As an alternative, this study introduces a novel biocomposite combining an ethyl cyanoacrylate (ECA) polymer with Hancornia speciosa (Hs) latex. The ECA acts as a scaffold and delivery vehicle for the latex, which contains phytochemicals with known angiogenic properties. Methods: We created 5 mm critical-sized calvarial defects in 36 Wistar rats, which were divided into four experimental groups. Bone regeneration was evaluated at 30, 60, and 90 days using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) for morphometric analysis and hematoxylin and eosin staining for histology. Results: The composite-treated group (Hs+ECA) showed significantly higher bone volume (57.2; IQR: 56.7–61.2) than the control (53.9; IQR: 49.4–56.4) and ECA-only (48.4; IQR: 47.2–59.9) groups at 90 days (p < 0.05). By day 60, the bone volume in the Hs+ECA group was statistically similar (p > 0.05) to that of the autogenous bone group. Histological analysis revealed an organized repair process with neoangiogenesis observed only in the Hs+ECA group, confirming the material’s strong bioactivity. Conclusions: The Hs+ECA composite is a promising biomaterial that acts as an effective delivery system for the bioactive components of the latex. The induced angiogenesis was critical to its regenerative success. This cost-effective material warrants further investigation for clinical applications in regenerative dentistry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery)
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17 pages, 14488 KB  
Article
A 5.3 to 6.2-GHz Fractional-N Frequency Synthesizer with Variable Gain Automatic Frequency Calibration Using Cycle Slips in 65 nm CMOS
by Jinhyuk Ahn, Sangwon Kim, Kihoon Kwon, Minseo Park, Joonho Gil, Hyungkyu Choi, Nam-Young Kim, Eun-Seong Kim, Youngho Jung and Taehyoun Oh
Electronics 2025, 14(22), 4368; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14224368 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
The paper presents an automatic frequency calibration (AFC) technique for a charge pump-based phase-locked loop (CPPLL) with 5–6 μsec correction time. The architecture detects frequency offset in real time while keeping the loop active and performs a variable gain calibration that increases the [...] Read more.
The paper presents an automatic frequency calibration (AFC) technique for a charge pump-based phase-locked loop (CPPLL) with 5–6 μsec correction time. The architecture detects frequency offset in real time while keeping the loop active and performs a variable gain calibration that increases the correction gain at large frequency offsets to accelerate lock acquisition and gradually reduce the gain near locking frequency to suppress residual oscillation and overshoot. The implemented synthesizer rapidly re-acquires the lock within several adjacent coarse-tuning codes after frequency drift and maintains continuous operation without interruption. It demonstrates that the designed AFC achieves seamless frequency recovery in dynamically varying environments. Fabricated in a 65 nm CMOS process, the prototype fractional-N synthesizer occupies an active area of 0.603 mm2 and operates over a 5.3–6.2 GHz tuning range. At 5.8 GHz, the design achieves a phase noise of −107 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset and consumes 21.5 mW from a 1.2 V supply. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Circuit and Signal Processing)
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18 pages, 2762 KB  
Article
Performance Analysis and Optimization of a Bio-Inspired Spider-Web-Shaped Energy Absorbing Component for Legged Landers
by Xueao Liu, Hui Wang, Kai Yang, Bin Zhang, Xuecong Wang, Kaiting Liu and Shiming Zhou
Machines 2025, 13(11), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13111035 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Inspired by the structural characteristics of natural spider webs, a simplified configuration composed of multi-layer regular polygons was developed to design a novel energy absorbing component for legged landers. To investigate its compressive energy-absorption behavior, a parameterized finite element model (FEM) was established. [...] Read more.
Inspired by the structural characteristics of natural spider webs, a simplified configuration composed of multi-layer regular polygons was developed to design a novel energy absorbing component for legged landers. To investigate its compressive energy-absorption behavior, a parameterized finite element model (FEM) was established. By integrating optimized Latin hypercube experimental design with the FEM, the energy absorption characteristics under varying structural parameters were evaluated. Based on the FEM results, response surface methodology was employed to construct surrogate models that capture the mapping relationships between design parameters and performance indices. Using these surrogate models, the energy-absorbing component was optimized under three different ranges of average buffering force. Three optimized components with distinct average buffering forces were selected and connected in series, and their force–displacement responses during compression were computed through finite element simulations. The obtained response curves were incorporated into a multibody dynamics model of a Mars lander to verify performance, demonstrating that the lander can achieve effective soft landing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Machine Design and Theory)
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12 pages, 802 KB  
Communication
RBM39 Contributes to MGMT Maintenance in Response to Temozolomide-Induced DNA Damage
by Vahid Khalaj, Jack T. Adams, Solmaz AghaAmiri, Servando Hernandez Vargas, Tyler M. Bateman, Sukhen C. Ghosh, Majid Momeny and Ali Azhdarinia
Cancers 2025, 17(22), 3604; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17223604 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Resistance to alkylating chemotherapeutic agents such as temozolomide (TMZ) is a significant challenge in treating tumors with high MGMT expression, including MGMT-positive glioblastoma and neuroendocrine neoplasms. In this study, we investigated the effect of RNA-binding motif protein 39 (RBM39) downregulation on MGMT protein [...] Read more.
Resistance to alkylating chemotherapeutic agents such as temozolomide (TMZ) is a significant challenge in treating tumors with high MGMT expression, including MGMT-positive glioblastoma and neuroendocrine neoplasms. In this study, we investigated the effect of RNA-binding motif protein 39 (RBM39) downregulation on MGMT protein levels, based on prior observations suggesting an association between these two proteins. Pharmacological depletion or siRNA-mediated knockdown of RBM39 led to a marked reduction in MGMT protein levels in MGMT-expressing cancer cells. We further showed that dual targeting of RBM39 (using indisulam) and MGMT (with O6-benzylguanine) synergistically enhanced MGMT depletion. Functionally, combined indisulam and TMZ treatment significantly increased apoptosis and decreased clonogenic growth in neuroendocrine tumor cells. These findings identify MGMT as a downstream target of RBM39 in MGMT-expressing cancer cells and highlight the therapeutic potential of co-targeting RBM39 and MGMT to overcome resistance to alkylating chemotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Medicine in Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasias)
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14 pages, 2402 KB  
Article
Characteristics of Nanosecond Bipolar Pulsed Water Electrode Dielectric Barrier Discharge for Ozone Generation
by Weitian Wu, Chenyang Jin, Yifan Wu, Xianyang Zeng, Linsheng Wei, Zhongqian Ling and Lijian Wang
Processes 2025, 13(11), 3619; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13113619 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the ozone generation characteristics of a nanosecond bipolar pulse-excited single-water electrode (dielectric barrier discharge) DBD reactor, with a particular focus on the effects of pulse width (Tp) on discharge behavior, plasma parameters, and ozone generation efficiency. The [...] Read more.
This study investigates the ozone generation characteristics of a nanosecond bipolar pulse-excited single-water electrode (dielectric barrier discharge) DBD reactor, with a particular focus on the effects of pulse width (Tp) on discharge behavior, plasma parameters, and ozone generation efficiency. The results indicate that the bipolar pulse voltage displays a symmetric alternating waveform, and the reactor demonstrates excellent thermal stability. Rotation temperature (Trot) remains stable between 307 and 310 K (close to room temperature, which effectively suppresses O3 thermal decomposition), while vibrational temperature (Tvib) stabilizes at 3120 ± 50 K (sufficient to ensure the electron energy required for O2 dissociation). Electron excitation temperature (Texc) increases with both the specific input energy (SIE) and Tp. At SIE = 200 J/L, extending Tp from 200 ns to 1000 ns results in an increase in Texc from 2633 K to 2724 K. The ozone generation efficiency exhibits a “rise-then-decline” trend with increasing Tp. The optimal Tp is 500–600 ns, at which the maximum efficiency reaches 102 g/kWh (corresponding to SIE = 35.95 J/L), which is slightly higher than the peak efficiency of the unipolar pulse-driven water electrode reactor (99.64 ± 0.87 g/kWh, corresponding to SIE = 33.60 ± 1.53 J/L). This work innovatively applies nanosecond bipolar pulse excitation to a single-water electrode DBD reactor for ozone generation, an understudied configuration that integrates the discharge stability advantage of bipolar pulses and the superior cooling advantages of water electrodes. This study offers significant insights into the pulse power excitation of ozone generation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plasma Technology for Environmental and Energy Process Engineering)
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17 pages, 831 KB  
Article
Online Estimation of Manipulator Dynamics for Computed Torque Control of Robotic Systems
by Hichem Kallel and Kamran Iqbal
Sensors 2025, 25(22), 6831; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25226831 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Traditional control of robotic systems relies on the availability of an exact model, which assumes complete knowledge of the robot’s parameters and all dynamic effects. However, this idealized scenario rarely holds in practice, as real-world interactions introduce unpredictable environmental influences, friction, and edge [...] Read more.
Traditional control of robotic systems relies on the availability of an exact model, which assumes complete knowledge of the robot’s parameters and all dynamic effects. However, this idealized scenario rarely holds in practice, as real-world interactions introduce unpredictable environmental influences, friction, and edge effects. This paper presents a novel data-driven approach to modeling and estimating robot dynamics by leveraging data collected during the robot’s movements. The proposed method operates without prior knowledge of the system parameters, thereby addressing the limitations of conventional model-based control strategies in complex and uncertain environments. Our unified data-driven framework integrates classical control theory with modern machine learning techniques, including system identification, physics-informed neural networks (PINNs), and deep learning. We demonstrate its efficacy in the case of a two-link robotic manipulator that achieves superior trajectory tracking and robustness to unmodeled dynamics. The technique is modular and can be extended to manipulators with more joints. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Robots: Control and Sensing)
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15 pages, 591 KB  
Article
Development of Smoothies Fermented with Kombucha Microorganisms: Sensory Characteristics, Functional Properties, and Microbiological Aspects
by Lorene Simioni Yassin, Camila Gomes Sheleidres, Thaís Estéfane Fischer, Acácio Antonio Ferreira Zielinski, Paulo Ricardo Los, Luiz Gustavo Lacerda, Aline Alberti and Alessandro Nogueira
Fermentation 2025, 11(11), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11110637 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Smoothies and kombucha are beverages appreciated by contemporary consumers due to their appealing flavor, convenience, and perceived health benefits. This study aimed to develop fruit- and white tea-based smoothies with high sensory and functional quality, and to evaluate the effects of fermentation with [...] Read more.
Smoothies and kombucha are beverages appreciated by contemporary consumers due to their appealing flavor, convenience, and perceived health benefits. This study aimed to develop fruit- and white tea-based smoothies with high sensory and functional quality, and to evaluate the effects of fermentation with kombucha microorganisms. The smoothie base (70%) was composed of 60% strawberry pulp and 40% cryoconcentrated apple juice. Ten formulations were designed using a centroid simplex approach and subjected to sensory analysis. The two most accepted by consumers (E5: 15% blackberry pulp and 15% white tea; E10: 5% blackberry pulp and 5% acerola pulp, and 20% white tea) were fermented for 10, 15, and 20 h. The formulations were evaluated through sensory analysis. Fermentation led to significant (p < 0.05) reductions in glucose, fructose, and caffeine contents, while significantly (p < 0.05) increasing acidity, total phenolic content, ascorbic acid levels, and color intensity. Moreover, the fermented smoothie exhibited higher α-glucosidase inhibitory potential. One fermented smoothie (E5 fermented for 15 h) showed desirable sensory and functional properties. Therefore, this study demonstrates the successful development of smoothies, fermented or non-fermented with kombucha microorganisms, characterized by strong functional attributes and high sensory acceptance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fermentation for Food and Beverages)
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11 pages, 350 KB  
Article
Real-World Data of Light Chain (AL) Amyloidosis: Prognostic Indices and Treatment Patterns
by Marko Mitrovic, Aleksandra Sretenovic, Natalija Kecman, Nikola Vukosavljevic, Maja Perunicic Jovanovic, Dragana Sobic Saranovic, Ruzica Maksimovic, Zoran Bukumiric, Danijela Lekovic, Arsen Ristic, Milena Todorovic Balint and Jelena Bila
Biomedicines 2025, 13(11), 2734; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13112734 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background: Limited real-world data (RWD) may provide important information regarding diagnostic and treatment patterns in patients (pts) with AL Amyloidosis. The aim was to analyze the characteristics, treatment approach and clinical outcome of patients in the real-world settings. Materials and Methods: RWD of [...] Read more.
Background: Limited real-world data (RWD) may provide important information regarding diagnostic and treatment patterns in patients (pts) with AL Amyloidosis. The aim was to analyze the characteristics, treatment approach and clinical outcome of patients in the real-world settings. Materials and Methods: RWD of 60 pts diagnosed with AL amyloidosis were analyzed. Advanced cardiac involvement, Mayo Clinical Stage (CS) IIIa and IIIb, and Revised-Mayo CS III and IV, has been found in 26.7%, and 16.7%, or 33.3% and 16.7%, respectively. Bortezomib (Bz)-based regimens were applied in 36 pts (60%), and alkylating-based regimens in 24 pts (40%). In 8 pts (13.3%) treated initially with CyBorD induction, high-dose therapy with Melphalan and autologous stem cell transplantation (HDT + ASCT) was applied as the first line of treatment. Results: The overall response rate (ORR, ≥partial response) was achieved in 40 pts (70%). Patients treated with Bz-based induction followed by HDT + ASCT achieved significantly better hematologic (p = 0.001), cardiac (p = 0.004) and renal response rates (p = 0.002) in comparison to CyBorD or Alk-based regimens alone. There was no difference in PFS between those groups (p = 0.733), but patients treated with CyBorD + HDT + ASCT had significantly durable OS (p = 0.039). Univariate analysis pointed out the predictive influence of cardiac involvement (Mayo CS and Revised Mayo CS), ASCT eligibility, and hematologic, cardiac, renal and composite response rates. Conclusions: Advanced cardiac involvement and cardiac and hematologic response still retain adverse prognostic impact on the clinical outcome. Bz-based combinations significantly improved the survival of patients with AL amyloidosis, regardless of HDT + ASCT treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematologic Malignancies)
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15 pages, 1058 KB  
Article
Effects of Red Lentil Flour Gels on the Development and Rheological Parameters of Dough and Bread Texture
by Sorina Ropciuc, Cristina Ghinea and Ana Leahu
Gels 2025, 11(11), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11110894 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the role of red lentil flour gel in the development of dough and bread texture. The flour was obtained from untreated (FLU), blanched (FLS), and fermented (FLF) red lentil seeds. Subsequently, wheat flour was replaced with lentil flour [...] Read more.
This study aims to investigate the role of red lentil flour gel in the development of dough and bread texture. The flour was obtained from untreated (FLU), blanched (FLS), and fermented (FLF) red lentil seeds. Subsequently, wheat flour was replaced with lentil flour in different percentages (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10%), and the α-amylase activity of the flour samples was determined. The rheological properties of the dough during the fermentation process (dough development and gas formation and retention, elastic (G′) and viscous (G″) moduli) were also investigated. The hardness, resilience, cohesiveness, and elasticity of the bread samples were obtained using a TVT-6700 texturometer (Perten Instruments, Hägersten, Sweden). The results showed that α-amylase activity was stronger and the falling number decreased as the amount of lentil flour added increased (from 506 ± 2.50 s (control sample) to 386 ± 1.25 s for 10% FLU and to 403 ± 0.60 s for 10% FLF), except for the FLS samples (which ranged from 518 ± 2.92 to 559 ± 2.81 s). Lentils can disrupt the gluten network in dough, and it has been observed that dough quality was influenced by the addition and treatment of lentils: the maximum height of the dough decreased (from 53.8 mm (control sample) to less than 35 mm) as the percentage of wheat flour replaced by lentil flour increased. In contrast, the amount of gas formed was greater than in the control sample, demonstrating the positive effect of lentil flour on dough fermentation. Textural analysis showed positive effects at moderate concentrations of up to 6% lentil flour. Thus, bread hardness decreased from 1933 ± 0.13 (control sample) to 1849 ± 0.75 for 6% FLU and 1911 ± 0.56 for 6% FLF. The results showed that the use of 4% blanched or fermented lentil flour in dough gives it superior properties compared with regular dough, which leads to improved properties in baked goods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Properties and Application of Gel Materials (2nd Edition))
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18 pages, 3133 KB  
Article
Data-Driven Detection and Prediction of Refrigeration Equipment Failures Using Rough Sets Theory and the Internet of Things
by Zbigniew Kokosiński, Piotr Szydłowski and Bartosz Kozłowski
Processes 2025, 13(11), 3618; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13113618 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
This article presents a system for the detection and prediction of faults in refrigeration equipment developed using rough set theory, a method from artificial intelligence and leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technology for continuous data collection. The system targets the most frequent failures [...] Read more.
This article presents a system for the detection and prediction of faults in refrigeration equipment developed using rough set theory, a method from artificial intelligence and leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technology for continuous data collection. The system targets the most frequent failures (fan, compressor, and controller faults), allowing early detection and timely intervention. Measurement data are transmitted to a cloud platform for analysis within a distributed architecture, ensuring scalable and efficient processing. Data-driven diagnostic models were built on rough set theory, enabling decision-making based on incomplete or imprecise data. Experiments conducted on both real and simulated datasets demonstrated high detection effectiveness, with accuracy ranging from 76% to 90% across all monitored fault types. Diagnostic parameters were analyzed to assess the system performance comprehensively. The paper also discusses potential directions for further development, including adaptation to other refrigeration devices and integration of the decision-making system into IoT devices, opening the way for fully predictive maintenance solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section AI-Enabled Process Engineering)
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13 pages, 3851 KB  
Article
Novel Isolate of Halobacteriovorax Capable of Killing Multi-Drug-Resistant Escherichia coli and Salmonella
by Stefania Di Lullo, Silvia Pieralisi, Giulia Talevi, Gabriele Angelico, Elena Rocchegiani, Francesca Leoni, Maira Napoleoni, Diego Maiolatesi, Francesca Barchiesi, Sara Nardi, Annalisa Petruzzelli, Claudia Gabucci, Angela Conti, Gianluigi Cardinali and Donatella Ottaviani
Antibiotics 2025, 14(11), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14111133 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Due to the rising problem of antimicrobial resistance, there is increasing attention in the scientific community towards alternative approaches to combat Antimicrobial-Resistant (AMR) pathogens that do not involve the use of antibiotics. In this regard, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Due to the rising problem of antimicrobial resistance, there is increasing attention in the scientific community towards alternative approaches to combat Antimicrobial-Resistant (AMR) pathogens that do not involve the use of antibiotics. In this regard, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have promoted experimentation with predatory bacteria to fight antibiotic resistance. With the aim of identifying predatory bacteria suitable for the control of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, in this work we isolated a strain of Halobacteriovorax from an estuarine aquatic environment using a CTX-M-producing E. coli strain as prey and characterized it with respect to optimal physico-chemical parameters for growth and predation. Furthermore, we studied its predatory capacity against other E. coli strains and Multi-Drug-Resistant (MDR) Salmonella. Finally, we conducted challenge experiments to evaluate the growth of predator and prey over time. Methods: The Halobacteriovorax strain, designated HE7, was identified by 16S rRNA analysis. To isolate Halobacteriovorax and to evaluate its predatory ability towards different preys, the double-layer agar plating technique was applied. Results: HE7 showed in vitro predatory activity against all MDR strains of E. coli and Salmonella tested. In the 107 predator/103 prey and 107 predator/107 prey challenges, HE7 after 6 h achieved the total killing and a reduction of about 6 logs in the prey, respectively, maintaining this effect for up to 24 h. Conclusions: The results of this study highlight that HE7, but more generally Halobacteriovorax, could find application both alone and in an integrated context of antimicrobial strategies as an alternative to antibiotics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Residues, Antimicrobial Resistance and Intervention Strategies of Foodborne Pathogens, 2nd Edition)
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35 pages, 61373 KB  
Article
Mapping Manual Laboratory Tasks to Robot Movements in Digital Pathology Workflow
by Marianna Dimitrova Kucarov, Mátyás Takács, Bence Géza Czakó, Béla Molnár and Miklos Kozlovszky
Sensors 2025, 25(22), 6830; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25226830 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
This study evaluated and integrated automatic pathology equipment and a collaborative robot to create a fully autonomous workflow. We selected the Gemini AS Automated Slide Stainer, ClearVue Coverslipper, and Pannoramic 1000 digital slide scanner, controlled by a UR5e robotic arm. To perform essential [...] Read more.
This study evaluated and integrated automatic pathology equipment and a collaborative robot to create a fully autonomous workflow. We selected the Gemini AS Automated Slide Stainer, ClearVue Coverslipper, and Pannoramic 1000 digital slide scanner, controlled by a UR5e robotic arm. To perform essential clinical laboratory tasks, we determined that the robotic arm, in combination with a custom manipulator, requires 9 degrees of freedom—5 from the robot and 4 from the manufactured manipulator. The patented manipulator is equipped with a camera, LED lighting, and three specialized grippers for object detection and precise handling of equipment doors, magazines, and slides. It is designed to mount onto a standardized robot flange interface (ISO 9409-1-50-4-M6), making it mechanically compatible with various robot arms. A minimum of 24 distinct laboratory tasks were defined for the training of the robotic arm. This autonomous workflow mitigates labor shortages and accelerates diagnostic processes by offloading repetitive tasks, thereby improving efficiency in pathology laboratories. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Intelligent Robotics and Autonomous Control Systems—Celebrating the 75th Birthday of Professor Imre J. Rudas)
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16 pages, 5632 KB  
Article
Study on the Microstructure and Properties of CoCrFeNiMo High-Entropy Alloy Coatings Prepared by Atmospheric Plasma Spraying
by Chunxia Jiang, Wenge Li, Ziyan Li, Lu Wang, Rongbin Li, Yanlong Xu, Tao Jiang and Yuantao Zhao
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(22), 1692; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15221692 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
This study employed atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) technology to successfully fabricate CoCrFeNiMo high-entropy alloy (HEA) coatings under varying spraying currents and systematically investigated the effects of the spraying current on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and tribological behavior of the coatings. Results showed that [...] Read more.
This study employed atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) technology to successfully fabricate CoCrFeNiMo high-entropy alloy (HEA) coatings under varying spraying currents and systematically investigated the effects of the spraying current on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and tribological behavior of the coatings. Results showed that the material composition remained consistent across different current levels, primarily consisting of face-centered cubic (FCC) solid solution phases, FeCr2O4 spinel phases, and Cr-rich FCC1 phases. The FCC matrix was dispersed with spherical Cr oxide particles smaller than 30 nm in diameter, which significantly enhanced the strength of the coatings. As spraying current increased, both porosity and microhardness exhibited a non-monotonic trend—initial optimization followed by deterioration. At 500 A spraying current, the coating achieved optimal performance, with the lowest porosity (0.42%) and highest microhardness (569.8 HV). Correspondingly, this condition also yielded the best wear resistance, with stable friction coefficients and wear rates reaching 0.49 and 6.91 × 10−5 mm3/N m, respectively. Abrasion surface analysis revealed that excessively low or high currents triggered distinct wear mechanisms leading to reduced wear resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials and Thin Films for Advanced Engineering Applications and Green Sustainable Solutions)
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24 pages, 608 KB  
Review
West Nile Virus: Insights into Microbiology, Epidemiology, and Clinical Burden
by Andrea Marino, Ermanno Vitale, Antonino Maniaci, Luigi La Via, Vittoria Moscatt, Serena Spampinato, Paola Senia, Emmanuele Venanzi Rullo, Vincenzo Restivo, Bruno Cacopardo and Giuseppe Nunnari
Acta Microbiol. Hell. 2025, 70(4), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/amh70040044 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
West Nile Virus (WNV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus first identified in Uganda in 1937, has emerged over the past quarter century as a major global public health threat. Since its introduction into North America in 1999, WNV has become the leading cause of arboviral [...] Read more.
West Nile Virus (WNV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus first identified in Uganda in 1937, has emerged over the past quarter century as a major global public health threat. Since its introduction into North America in 1999, WNV has become the leading cause of arboviral neuroinvasive disease, with recurrent outbreaks continuing across Europe, Africa, and the Americas. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the microbiology, epidemiology, and clinical impact of WNV. We discuss the molecular biology of the virus, highlighting its genomic organization, replication strategies, and the structural and non-structural proteins that underpin viral pathogenesis and immune evasion. The complex enzootic transmission cycle, involving Culex mosquitoes and diverse avian reservoir hosts, is examined alongside ecological and climatic determinants of viral amplification and spillover into humans and equines. The clinical spectrum of WNV infection is outlined, ranging from asymptomatic seroconversion to West Nile fever and life-threatening neuroinvasive disease, with particular emphasis on risk factors for severe outcomes in older and immunocompromised individuals. Current approaches to diagnosis, supportive management, and vector control are critically reviewed, while challenges in vaccine development and the absence of effective antiviral therapy are underscored. Finally, we address future research priorities, including therapeutic innovation, predictive outbreak modeling, and genomic surveillance of viral evolution. WNV exemplifies the dynamics of emerging zoonotic diseases, and its persistence underscores the necessity of a coordinated One Health approach integrating human, animal, and environmental health. Continued scientific advances and public health commitment remain essential to mitigate its enduring global impact. Full article
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13 pages, 493 KB  
Article
Changing Bacterial Profiles and Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns in Spontaneous Ascites Infection: A Shift in Empiric Combination Antibiotic Therapy?
by Ceren Kaplankıran and Ender Serin
Antibiotics 2025, 14(11), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14111132 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to determine bacteria that grow in spontaneous ascites infection and their antibiotic susceptibility. Materials and Methods: A total of 291 cases of cirrhosis-related ascites were retrospectively analyzed between January 2007 and September 2015. Simple ascites, spontaneous ascites infection, spontaneous [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to determine bacteria that grow in spontaneous ascites infection and their antibiotic susceptibility. Materials and Methods: A total of 291 cases of cirrhosis-related ascites were retrospectively analyzed between January 2007 and September 2015. Simple ascites, spontaneous ascites infection, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and culture results were recorded. Due to increasing antibiotic resistance, theoretically appropriate antibiotics were paired, and their susceptibility was evaluated in order to review our empirical antibiotic choices and evaluate new empirical treatment options. Results: In all cultures, 48.1% were Gram-positive cocci and 50.6% were Gram-negative bacilli. Multidrug-resistant bacteria grew in 16 cultures (22.2%). The most common bacterium was Escherichia coli, and the second most common bacteria were coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS). According to all culture data, the rate of antibiotic susceptibility was third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins between 76.4 and 68%, 68% for ampicillin-sulbactam, 81.8% for piperacillin-tazobactam, 66% for ciprofloxacin, 71% for levofloxacin, 30% for tetracycline, and 45% for penicillin. Beta-lactam group antibiotic susceptibility of CoNS was 25% for penicillin and 53% for ampicillin-sulbactam; 52% had methicillin resistance. The rate of resistance to quinolones was 35%. Multidrug resistance was detected in 40% of CoNS (eight cases). When theoretically appropriate antibiotics were paired, combination therapy increased the susceptibility rates. Conclusions: The increase in Gram-positive infections and resistance to other antibiotic groups indicates empirical antibiotic selection based on local microbial culture results and antibiotic susceptibility. Our results are crucial to allowing for more rational and successful use of antibiotics. Full article
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15 pages, 475 KB  
Article
The Effect of Upward Social Comparison on Academic Involution Among College Students: Serial Mediating Effects of Self-Esteem and Perceived Stress
by Ru Wen and Qingying Jin
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 1515; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15111515 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Academic involution in college students has a significant impact on their physical and mental health; however, its internal psychological mechanism remains unexplored. This study aimed to examine the relationship between upward social comparison and academic involution among college students and investigate the serial [...] Read more.
Academic involution in college students has a significant impact on their physical and mental health; however, its internal psychological mechanism remains unexplored. This study aimed to examine the relationship between upward social comparison and academic involution among college students and investigate the serial mediating role of self-esteem and perceived stress. A questionnaire survey, which included the Upward Social Comparison, Self-Esteem, Chinese Perceived Stress, and College Students’ Academic Involution Scales, was conducted with 730 college students via the random sampling method. The results revealed that all pairs of variables were significantly correlated. Furthermore, upward social comparison not only directly influenced college students’ academic involution, but also indirectly affected it through the separate mediating roles of self-esteem and perceived stress, as well as the serial mediating effect of both variables. This study enriches the theoretical mechanism of college students’ academic involution and offers empirical support for designing mental health education and intervention programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Promoting Social–Emotional and Academic Support in Educational Settings)
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15 pages, 2345 KB  
Article
Assessing the Demographical Dynamics of Evacuations During Flood Hazard Using Mobile Spatial Statistics
by Masakazu Hashimoto, Shintaro Sata, Erick Mas, Shinichi Egawa, Daisuke Sano and Shunichi Koshimura
Water 2025, 17(22), 3192; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17223192 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
This study proposes a method to quantitatively assess evacuation demographics during regional floods using Mobile Spatial Statistics (MSSs). It focuses on Koriyama City, affected by Typhoon Hagibis in 2019, as well as Yamagata City, which experienced torrential rains in July 2020, when COVID-19 [...] Read more.
This study proposes a method to quantitatively assess evacuation demographics during regional floods using Mobile Spatial Statistics (MSSs). It focuses on Koriyama City, affected by Typhoon Hagibis in 2019, as well as Yamagata City, which experienced torrential rains in July 2020, when COVID-19 infection risks in evacuation shelters could have affected evacuation behavior. Both events led to flooding. MSS provided by NTT Docomo were used to explore the dynamics of the population. Evacuees’ demographics, according to the changes in river levels, were presented by gender and age group. Our results show differences in evacuation dynamics between the two regions: In Koriyama, younger people were more likely to evacuate faster; in Yamagata, older people moved faster than other age groups. At the evacuation peak, the average relative evacuation ratios were 2.2 times higher for women in their 20s in Koriyama, and 2.5 times higher for women in their 30s in Yamagata. Gender differences indicate that women were more likely to evacuate than men. The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on evacuation dynamics remains unclear; however, concerns about infection risk in shelters may have influenced people’s willingness to evacuate. MSSs provide a robust representation of evacuation dynamics in the local context and can help municipal governments develop more targeted evacuation policies, such as tailored warnings for specific age groups and enhanced support for older adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Flood Hazard and Risk Analysis: Theory, Methods, Numerical Models, Strategies, and Applications)
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13 pages, 907 KB  
Article
Development and Validation of a Clinical Decision Support Tool to Predict Disease Progression in Crohn’s Disease Treated with Ustekinumab
by Lingya Yao, Yushu Cao, Chenhao Bai, Rongbei Liu, Wenjing Yang, Kang Chao, Zhaopeng Huang, Yun Qiu, Xiang Gao, Minhu Chen and Qian Cao
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(22), 7919; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14227919 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Ustekinumab (UST) is an effective and safe drug for treating Crohn’s disease (CD), but data on disease progression after UST treatment is limited. This study aimed to develop a clinical decision support tool (CDST) to identify Chinese patients with CD less likely [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Ustekinumab (UST) is an effective and safe drug for treating Crohn’s disease (CD), but data on disease progression after UST treatment is limited. This study aimed to develop a clinical decision support tool (CDST) to identify Chinese patients with CD less likely to experience disease progression during UST treatment. Methods: A multicenter, retrospective observational study was conducted among Chinese patients with CD who started UST treatment between 1 May 2020 and 20 October 2022. Baseline characteristics, defined as the measurements taken closest to, and prior to, the first dose of UST, were collected. Disease progression, defined as CD-related surgery, hospitalization, and complications, was evaluated by week 52 (±4 weeks). Predictors were identified using logistic regression, and a UST-specific CDST (UST-CDST) was developed. The UST-CDST was then internally and externally validated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: Among 602 enrolled patients, 533 were included in the analysis. Four factors were suggestively associated with disease progression: prior biologics usage, baseline disease severity, baseline C-reactive protein, and baseline hemoglobin. The prediction model demonstrated an AUC of 0.88 in internal validation and 0.66 in external validation. The UST-CDST effectively stratified patients into low-risk or high-risk groups for disease progression within one year. Conclusions: A UST-CDST was developed and validated to identify patients with CD less or more likely to experience disease progression around week 52 under UST therapy. The scoring system promises to facilitate clinical decision-making and personalized treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Research Methods)
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16 pages, 7666 KB  
Article
In-Situ Self-Assembling Oligomeric Collagen Scaffold Enhances Vaccine Retention and Vaccine-Induced Humoral Immunity
by Juan F. Hernandez-Franco, Sushma Gude, Rachel A. Morrison, Daniela Castillo Perez, Sherry L. Voytik-Harbin and Harm HogenEsch
Vaccines 2025, 13(11), 1146; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13111146 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Subunit vaccines composed of purified proteins and adjuvants offer excellent safety, but often generate short-lived immunity due to rapid antigen clearance and limited antigen-presenting cell engagement. Sustained, localized delivery of antigen and adjuvant may improve the magnitude and durability of the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Subunit vaccines composed of purified proteins and adjuvants offer excellent safety, but often generate short-lived immunity due to rapid antigen clearance and limited antigen-presenting cell engagement. Sustained, localized delivery of antigen and adjuvant may improve the magnitude and durability of the immune response without compromising safety. This study evaluated an in-situ polymerizing type I oligomeric collagen (Oligomer) scaffold to localize antigen/adjuvant at the injection site and prolong antigen presentation. Methods: Mice were immunized intramuscularly with ovalbumin (OVA) and CpG oligonucleotide adjuvant delivered alone or co-formulated with Oligomer. Antibody response and inflammation at the injection site were assessed post-booster at early (Day 32) and late (Day 68) time points. Antigen retention and dendritic cell trafficking to draining lymph nodes were evaluated using fluorescently labeled OVA. Results: The Oligomer scaffold retained vaccine antigen at the injection site without eliciting a material-mediated foreign body response. Co-delivery of OVA and CpG within the scaffold enhanced germinal center activity, increased follicular helper T cells and germinal center B cells, and skewed CD4+ T cells toward a Th1 phenotype. Humoral responses were greater and more durable, with higher OVA-specific IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a titers and an increased number of bone marrow antibody-secreting cells persisting through Day 68. Antigen-positive dendritic cells, including both resident and migratory subsets, were elevated in draining lymph nodes, indicating enhanced antigen transport. No anti-mouse collagen I antibodies were detected, confirming the maintenance of collagen self-tolerance. Conclusions: The Oligomer delivery platform functioned as a localized, immunotolerant vaccine depot, sustaining antigen availability and immune cell engagement. This spatiotemporal control enhanced germinal center responses and generated a more robust, durable humoral immune response, supporting its potential to improve subunit vaccine efficacy while maintaining an excellent safety profile. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine Design and Development)
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16 pages, 2456 KB  
Article
Recessive Effect of GC-NPFFR2 rs137147462 on Somatic Cell Score (Mastitis Susceptibility) in Japanese Holsteins
by Yoshiyuki Akiyama, Takaaki Ando, Nobuhiro Nozaki, Mohammad Arif, Yutaro Ide, Shaohsu Wang and Naoki Miura
Animals 2025, 15(22), 3239; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15223239 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025
Abstract
We evaluated four candidate SNPs (GC-NPFFR2 rs137147462, GC-NPFFR2 rs109452259, BRCA1 rs134817801, and DGAT1 p.K232A) previously reported in relation to mastitis or milk production traits, using 10,729 test-day phenotypic records collected over 10 years from 269 Japanese Holstein cows (Bos taurus) [...] Read more.
We evaluated four candidate SNPs (GC-NPFFR2 rs137147462, GC-NPFFR2 rs109452259, BRCA1 rs134817801, and DGAT1 p.K232A) previously reported in relation to mastitis or milk production traits, using 10,729 test-day phenotypic records collected over 10 years from 269 Japanese Holstein cows (Bos taurus) enrolled in the national Dairy Herd Improvement (DHI) program. Linear mixed models were used to estimate genotypic effects on somatic cell score (SCS) and to test multiple inheritance models. To assess clinical relevance, mastitis severity was further analyzed using categories defined by somatic cell counts (SCC). Among the SNPs tested, GC-NPFFR2 rs137147462 showed the clearest and most consistent association with SCS under a recessive model, with GG cows exhibiting higher SCS throughout lactation. Ordinal logistic regression confirmed a higher probability of progression to severe mastitis in GG cows. DGAT1 p.K232A showed additive effects, with the A allele increasing milk yield while lowering fat and protein percentages. AA cows also showed higher SCS under a modest recessive effect. BRCA1 rs134817801 and GC-NPFFR2 rs109452259 had minimal effects. These findings support GC-NPFFR2 rs137147462 as a promising marker for mastitis resistance and indicate the importance of considering not only additive but also recessive genetic models in genomic selection strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)
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