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15 pages, 2753 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Sodium Percarbonate for Upgrading Torrefied Spent Coffee Grounds as Alternative Solid Biofuel by Taguchi Optimization

by Wei-Hsin Chen, Kuan-Ting Lee, Ji-Nien Sung, Nai-Yun Hu and Yun-Sen Xu

Energies 2025, 18(20), 5384; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18205384 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Producing solid biofuels with high calorific value and high storage stability under limited energy consumption has become a crucial focus in the global energy field. Low temperature torrefaction below 300 °C is a common method for producing solid biofuels. However, this approach limits [...] Read more.

Producing solid biofuels with high calorific value and high storage stability under limited energy consumption has become a crucial focus in the global energy field. Low temperature torrefaction below 300 °C is a common method for producing solid biofuels. However, this approach limits the carbon content and higher heating value (HHV) of the resulting biochar. Sodium percarbonate is a solid oxidant that can assist in the pyrolysis of organic molecules during the torrefaction to increase carbon content of biochar. Incorporating sodium percarbonate as a strategic additive presents a viable means to address the constraints associated with the torrefaction technologies. This study blended sodium percarbonate with spent coffee grounds (SCGs) to prepare torrefied SCG solid biofuels with high calorific value and high carbon content. Based on the Taguchi method with L9 orthogonal arrays, torrefaction temperature is identified as the most influential factor affecting higher heating value (HHV). Results from FTIR, water activity, hygroscopicity, and mold observation confirmed that torrefied SCGs blended with 0.5 wt% sodium percarbonate (0.5TSSCG) exhibited good storage stability. They were not prone to mold growth under ambient temperature and pressure. 0.5TSSCG with a carbon content of 61.88 wt% exhibited a maximum HHV of 29.42 MJ∙kg⁻¹. These findings indicate that sodium percarbonate contributes to increasing the carbon content and HHV of torrefied SCGs, enabling partial replacement of traditional coal consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermal Decomposition of Biomass and Waste)

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19 pages, 1897 KB

Open AccessArticle

Accuracy of Heart Rate Measurement Under Transient States: A Validation Study of Wearables for Real-Life Monitoring

by Catharina Nina Van Oost, Federica Masci, Adelien Malisse, An-Marie Schyvens, Brent Peters, Hélène Dirix, Veerle Ross, Geert Wets, An Neven, Johan Verbraecken and Jean-Marie Aerts

Sensors 2025, 25(20), 6319; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25206319 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Wearable devices are increasingly used for health and stress monitoring, yet their accuracy under dynamic, real-world conditions remains uncertain. This study validated the heart rate measurement accuracy of one chest-worn device (Zephyr BioHarness 3.0), a research-grade wrist-worn device (EmbracePlus), and five commercial wrist-worn [...] Read more.

Wearable devices are increasingly used for health and stress monitoring, yet their accuracy under dynamic, real-world conditions remains uncertain. This study validated the heart rate measurement accuracy of one chest-worn device (Zephyr BioHarness 3.0), a research-grade wrist-worn device (EmbracePlus), and five commercial wrist-worn wearable devices (Fitbit Charge 5, Fitbit Sense 2, Garmin Vivosmart 4, WHOOP 4.0, and Withings Scanwatch) against a 12-lead ECG using a 20 min protocol simulating real-life dynamics, including rest and varied-intensity walking. Device performance was evaluated across the full protocol and during transient states, defined as periods of rapid heart rate change. Accuracy and agreement were evaluated across per-second, 10 s, and 60 s resolutions. The Zephyr device showed a strong performance during all dynamic conditions. Among the wrist-worn devices, the Fitbit Charge 5 and Sense 2 showed the highest accuracy overall, while the Garmin Vivosmart 4 demonstrated greater stability during transitions. The WHOOP 4.0, Withings Scanwatch, and EmbracePlus devices performed acceptably during steady-state conditions, but were less accurate during transitions. Performance notably declined across all wrist-worn devices during transient states, with motion onset and large step changes in heart rate exacerbating measurement errors. Larger averaging windows improved accuracy by smoothing variability. The findings underscore that wrist-worn wearable devices may be better suited for average and trend heart rate monitoring rather than capturing acute dynamics. However, the Garmin and Fitbit devices showed suitable when requiring moderate accuracy during dynamic conditions. These results highlight the importance of context-specific validation and informed device selection to ensure effective use in health and stress-related applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Wearables)

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15 pages, 1416 KB

Open AccessArticle

Profiling the Paralytic Effects and Lethality of Cone Snail Venom Toxins Using Nanofractionation Analytics with In Vivo Zebrafish Larvae Assays

by Jeroen Kool, Arif Arrahman, Haifeng Xu, Jiaxing Liu, Richard J. Lewis, Christian Tudorache and Fernanda C. Cardoso

Toxins 2025, 17(10), 504; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17100504 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

This study presents nanofractionation analytics coupled with in vivo profiling of zebrafish embryo paralysis and lethality in response to toxins in cone snail venoms. The focus of this study is on the development of this approach using venoms of Conus marmoreus, Conus [...] Read more.

This study presents nanofractionation analytics coupled with in vivo profiling of zebrafish embryo paralysis and lethality in response to toxins in cone snail venoms. The focus of this study is on the development of this approach using venoms of Conus marmoreus, Conus ebraeus, and Conus bandanus. In brief, cone snail venoms were separated using reversed-phase chromatography following high-resolution nanofractionation on microplates with parallel mass spectrometry, enabled via a post-column flow split. All collected fractions were dried overnight, followed by assays on zebrafish embryos. For the paralysis assessment, we monitored swimming behavior and swimming distance and found that exposure to cone snail toxins led to paralysis and decreased movement and swim distance. To correlate the masses of eluted toxins with their paralyzing effects and potency, we compared the fractionation retention time versus normalized swimming distance. This allowed identification of the masses of toxins with paralyzing bioactivity, which were predominantly conopeptides. To assess lethality, zebrafish embryos were exposed to fractionated toxins for 24 h, after which they were inspected. The lethal doses and correlated toxins were identified by comparing retention times of fractionation versus the lethal dose values calculated for each fraction. We found that the most lethal venom was from C. bandanus, displaying the largest number of lethal peptides, followed by C. marmoreus and C. ebraeus. On the other hand, the most paralytic venom was from C. ebraeus, presenting a higher number of peptides with non-lethal paralytic effects, followed by C. bandanus and C. marmoreus. This study provides a pipeline to rapidly identify paralytic and lethal cone snail venom toxins using the zebrafish embryo model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxins from Venoms and Poisons)

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17 pages, 1163 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Stochastic Nature of the Mining Production Process—Modeling of Processes in Deep Hard Coal Mines

by Ryszard Snopkowski, Marta Sukiennik and Aneta Napieraj

Energies 2025, 18(20), 5383; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18205383 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

The stochastic and undetermined nature of longwall coal mining results from the complex interaction between geological-mining and technical-organizational factors. This interaction causes variability in key parameters of the production process. This article presents three stochastic models developed on the basis of probability density [...] Read more.

The stochastic and undetermined nature of longwall coal mining results from the complex interaction between geological-mining and technical-organizational factors. This interaction causes variability in key parameters of the production process. This article presents three stochastic models developed on the basis of probability density functions, which describe selected process parameters. These mathematical functions serve as the foundation for effective stochastic models, enabling analysis of complex mining operations. The methodology employed in the study involves empirical data collection, statistical analysis, and stochastic simulation, carried out under both laboratory and field conditions. The results include empirical probability functions for output, delays, and crew-dependent productivity, offering insights into process variability and its impact on performance. Each method is characterized by its theoretical foundations, algorithmic structure, and application areas. The models have been validated through statistical tests and operational field data and can be applied as decision-support tools in both scientific research and industrial management. Given the extensive nature of the described methods, the article provides a comprehensive reference list for readers interested in further exploration and practical implementation in mining engineering. Full article

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20 pages, 855 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Learning Empowering Sustainable Education: Evidence from the Determinants of Chinese College Students’ Knowledge Innovation Capability

by Yan Huang, Zhihui Zhang, Bingqian Xu, Xinyu Zhou, Jiayu Zhai and Da Gao

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9060; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209060 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technology, the role of Artificial Intelligence Generated Content (AIGC) applications within digital learning communities has become increasingly significant. Enhancing the level of knowledge innovation through the integration of human and artificial intelligence has emerged as a [...] Read more.

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technology, the role of Artificial Intelligence Generated Content (AIGC) applications within digital learning communities has become increasingly significant. Enhancing the level of knowledge innovation through the integration of human and artificial intelligence has emerged as a critical issue. Grounded in social cognitive theory, this study utilizes a sample of 407 Super Star Learn community learners as a case study. It applies the Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) method to investigate the synergistic effects of technological environment, cultural context, and individual cognitive factors in promoting learners’ knowledge innovation capabilities. The results show the following: (1) No single condition constitutes a prerequisite for learners to achieve high-level knowledge innovation when acting in isolation. However, enhancing technical capabilities has a relatively universal impact on promoting learners to achieve these results. (2) The multiple concurrency of the technological environment, cultural environment, and individual cognitive conditions has generated multiple configuration patterns that promote knowledge innovation, indicating that the paths leading to learners’ high-level innovation exhibit the characteristic of numerous concurrency. Therefore, it is suggested that digital learning communities actively explore new paths for sustainable knowledge innovation and development driven by generative artificial intelligence technology, thereby injecting sustainable impetus into the development and innovation process of learners, contributing to the goals of sustainable education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)

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17 pages, 3068 KB

Open AccessArticle

Preparation, Stability and In Vitro Antineoplastic Function of Lecithin–Chitosan–Polyethylene Glycol Nanoparticles Loaded with Bioactive Peptides Derived from Phycocyanin

by Haozhe Cheng, Binyang Jia, Xinran Li, Yali Li, Boxiong Wu, Qi Yang, Chengtao Wang, Baoguo Sun and Shuai Hao

Foods 2025, 14(20), 3487; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14203487 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Phycocyanin (PC) is a type of alga-derived protein which exerts the role of light harvesting in Spirulina and Cyanophyta cells. Studies have widely proved that phycocyanin exhibits antineoplastic functions, while investigations on its bioactive peptides remain poorly documented. In previous work, three phycocyanin-derived [...] Read more.

Phycocyanin (PC) is a type of alga-derived protein which exerts the role of light harvesting in Spirulina and Cyanophyta cells. Studies have widely proved that phycocyanin exhibits antineoplastic functions, while investigations on its bioactive peptides remain poorly documented. In previous work, three phycocyanin-derived peptides (PCPs: PCP1-3), which exerted anticancer effects in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, were successfully identified. In consideration of the in vitro instability of bioactive peptides, this study firstly investigated the stabilization and function of phycocyanin-derived peptides loaded by nanoparticles (NPs). Herein, Lipid-core NPs (PCPs@LEC–CS–PEG, diameter less than 100 nm) were prepared by interfacial deposition of a polymer using lecithin (LEC, liposome core shell), chitosan (CS, coating material) and polyethylene glycol (PEG, stabilizer). The results indicate that the embedding of LEC liposomes could significantly increase the stability of PCPs through promoting their resistance to high temperature (68.256 ± 3.26%), pH (60.17 ± 3.67%) and protease. Moreover, the modification of NPs by PEG and CS could enhance the protective effects on PCPs. Furthermore, in vitro phenotypic experiments confirmed that the inclusion of PCPs@PEG-CS–LEC NPs also significantly increased the inhibitory activities of PCPs against multiple NSCLC cells including A549, H1299 and LTEP-a2 cells, compared with non-embedded PCPs. The results of this work could lay a theoretical foundation for the further development and utilization of peptides derived from phycocyanin, and also for the investigation of the antineoplastic effects of bioactive peptides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutraceuticals, Functional Foods, and Novel Foods)

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17 pages, 2558 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Forecasting of Regional Electric Vehicles Charging Load: A Multi-Channel Attentional Graph Network Integrating Dynamic Electricity Price and Weather

by Hui Ding, Youyou Guo and Haibo Wang

Electronics 2025, 14(20), 4010; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14204010 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Accurate spatiotemporal forecasting of electric vehicle (EV) charging load is essential for smart grid management and efficient charging service operation. This paper introduced a novel spatiotemporal graph convolutional network with cross-attention (STGCN-Attention) for multi-factor charging load prediction. The model demonstrated a strong capability [...] Read more.

Accurate spatiotemporal forecasting of electric vehicle (EV) charging load is essential for smart grid management and efficient charging service operation. This paper introduced a novel spatiotemporal graph convolutional network with cross-attention (STGCN-Attention) for multi-factor charging load prediction. The model demonstrated a strong capability to capture cross-scale spatiotemporal correlations by adaptively integrating historical charging load, charging pile occupancy, dynamic electricity prices, and meteorological data. Evaluations in real-world charging scenarios showed that the proposed model achieved superior performance in hour forecasting, reducing Mean Absolute Error (MAE) by 9% and 16% compared to traditional STGCN and LSTM models, respectively. It also attained approximately 30% higher accuracy than 24 h prediction. Furthermore, the study identified an optimal 1-2-1 multi-scale temporal window strategy (hour–day–week) and revealed key driver factors. The combined input of load, occupancy, and electricity price yielded the best results (RMSE = 37.21, MAE = 27.34), while introducing temperature and precipitation raised errors by 2–8%, highlighting challenges in fine-grained weather integration. These findings provided actionable insights for real-time and intraday charging scheduling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence in Electric Vehicles)

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34 pages, 4282 KB

Open AccessReview

Electromagnetic Interference in the Modern Era: Concerns, Trends, and Nanomaterial-Based Solutions

by Jovana Prekodravac Filipovic, Mila Milenkovic, Dejan Kepic, Sladjana Dorontic, Muhammad Yasir, Blaz Nardin and Svetlana Jovanovic

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(20), 1558; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15201558 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) represents a growing challenge in the modern era, as electronic systems and wireless technologies become increasingly integrated into daily life. This review provides a comprehensive overview of EMI, beginning with its historical evolution over centuries, from early power transmission systems [...] Read more.

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) represents a growing challenge in the modern era, as electronic systems and wireless technologies become increasingly integrated into daily life. This review provides a comprehensive overview of EMI, beginning with its historical evolution over centuries, from early power transmission systems and industrial machinery to today’s complex environment shaped by IoT, 5G, smart devices, and autonomous technologies. The diverse sources of EMI and their wide-ranging effects are examined, including disruptions in electrical and medical devices, ecological impacts on wildlife, and potential risks to human health. Beyond its technical and societal implications, the economic dimension of EMI is explored, highlighting the rapid expansion of the global shielding materials market and its forecasted growth driven by telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and healthcare sectors. Preventative strategies against EMI are discussed, with particular emphasis on the role of advanced materials. Carbon-based nanomaterials—such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, and carbon foams—are presented as promising solutions owing to their exceptional conductivity, mechanical strength, tunable structure, and environmental sustainability. By uniting perspectives on EMI’s origins, consequences, market dynamics, and mitigation strategies, this work underscores the urgent need for scalable, high-performance, and eco-friendly shielding approaches. Special attention is given to recent advances in carbon-based nanomaterials, which are poised to play a transformative role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and sustainability of future electronic technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)

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12 pages, 1285 KB

Open AccessArticle

Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Drives VEGF Gene Expression in Monocytic Cells

by Fatemah Bahman, Taha Nadeem, Abdulrahman Alayyaf, Ashraf Al Madhoun, Fahd Al-Mulla, Sardar Sindhu and Rasheed Ahmad

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(10), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47100839 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Obesity is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress, conditions that disrupt metabolic homeostasis and promote vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. While hypoxia and fatty acid-induced oxidative stress are known regulators of VEGF, the contribution of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in [...] Read more.

Obesity is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress, conditions that disrupt metabolic homeostasis and promote vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. While hypoxia and fatty acid-induced oxidative stress are known regulators of VEGF, the contribution of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in monocytic cells remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the interplay between ER stress and metabolic stress in regulating VEGF expression using THP-1 monocytic cells. Metabolic stress was induced by palmitic acid (PA) and ER stress by thapsigargin (TG). Co-treatment with PA and TG significantly increased VEGF mRNA and protein levels compared to PA alone. This effect was accompanied by enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and upregulation of ER stress markers, including CHOP, ATF6, and IRE1. Pretreatment with the antioxidant curcumin markedly reduced VEGF expression and ROS levels, indicating a ROS-dependent mechanism. Additionally, PA+TG co-treatment elevated transcripts of antioxidant defense genes such as SOD2 and NRF2, suggesting a compensatory cellular response to oxidative stress. These findings demonstrate that ER stress amplifies VEGF induction in monocytic cells under lipotoxic conditions through ROS-mediated pathways, highlighting a potential mechanism linking metabolic stress, inflammation, and angiogenesis in obesity-related disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Molecular Mechanisms in Human Diseases)

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16 pages, 2244 KB

Open AccessArticle

Removal and Temporary Cyst Formation of Gymnodinium catenatum (Dinophyceae) Using Calcium Bentonite Clay and Zeolite

by Francisco E. Hernández-Sandoval, Erick J. Núñez-Vázquez, Leyberth J. Fernández-Herrera, Jannette García-Zendejas, Ariel A. Cruz-Villacorta, José J. Bustillos-Guzmán, Daniel O. Ceseña-Ojeda and David J. López-Cortés

Phycology 2025, 5(4), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/phycology5040061 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Clay minerals and other flocculants are used to mitigate the effects of some species that produce harmful algal blooms due to their physical and chemical characteristics. In this study, we applied calcium bentonite clay (Bca) and zeolite (Ze) to flocculate and remove cells [...] Read more.

Clay minerals and other flocculants are used to mitigate the effects of some species that produce harmful algal blooms due to their physical and chemical characteristics. In this study, we applied calcium bentonite clay (Bca) and zeolite (Ze) to flocculate and remove cells of the dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum (Graham), a producer of paralyzing toxins. The flocculants were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in combination with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) microanalysis system. During experiments, Bca and Ze were suspended in distilled water, deionized water, and seawater at concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 4.0 gL⁻¹. The percentage of removal efficiency (RE%) of biomass indicators of G. catenatum was calculated. The cell number and concentration of chlorophyll a and peridinin were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV and HPLC-DAD). The external effects on cells of G. catenatum were recorded. As a result, the maximum RE% of Bca was 79% with respect to the total number of cells, chlorophyll a was 69% and peridinin of 73%. The RE% of Ze was less than 40%. In the matrix of sedimented Bca, malformation of cells was observed, inhibiting their swimming, as well as death and rupture of cells with temporary cyst formation after 72 h. We conclude that Bca, suspended in deionized and distilled water, was more efficient in flocculating cells of G. catenatum. Full article

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23 pages, 1962 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Home-Based Balance Exercise Training Program with Intermittent Visual Deprivation for Persons with Chronic Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: A Pilot Study on Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Outcomes

by Riccardo Bravi, Sara Guarducci, Giulia Panconi, Magdalena Sicher, Lorenzo Mucchi, Giacomo Lucchesi, Gabriele Righi, Giulio Del Popolo and Diego Minciacchi

Sensors 2025, 25(20), 6320; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25206320 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) results in impaired postural control and walking ability. Visual over-reliance may occur in iSCI individuals to maintain postural control. This can challenge their postural stability in various contexts of daily life activities. The present study assessed the feasibility, [...] Read more.

Incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) results in impaired postural control and walking ability. Visual over-reliance may occur in iSCI individuals to maintain postural control. This can challenge their postural stability in various contexts of daily life activities. The present study assessed the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of balance training with intermittent visual deprivation using stroboscopic glasses on postural control and visual reliance during quiet standing in iSCI individuals. Training impact on walking performance was also evaluated. Seven chronic iSCI individuals participated in a 6-week home-based balance training program, three times weekly, using stroboscopic glasses. Postural and walking abilities were assessed pre- and post-training using a bipedal stance test (BST) and 10 m walking test (10 MWT). BST was performed, with open-eyes (OE) and closed-eyes (CE), on a force plate for three 30 s trials. The center of pressure (CoP) variables included were CoP area (A-CoP) and CoP mean velocity (MV-CoP). Romberg ratios (CE/OE) for two CoP variables were calculated. Duration and speed were measured in 10 MWT. Intervention feasibility was assessed using the feasibility and acceptability questionnaire. Data from able-bodied individuals were recorded and used as references of physiological performance. iSCI individuals were significantly less stable and showed visual over-reliance for postural steadiness compared to controls. Also, their walking ability was impaired. All iSCI individuals completed the training (adherence rate: 84%) and rated it highly feasible. A-CoP and MV-CoP significantly reduced after training in CE condition (p = 0.018, respectively) but not in OE condition (p > 0.05). The Romberg ratio of A-CoP was significantly lower (p = 0.018), but the Romberg ratio of MV-CoP was not (p > 0.05). A significant reduction in duration and increase in speed (p = 0.018, respectively) in performing the 10 MWT were observed. Preliminary findings from this explorative study indicated that 6-week home-based balance training with intermittent visual deprivation was feasible, acceptable, and had promising potential benefits in improving postural control with a reduction in visual over-reliance in iSCI individuals. The training enhanced also their walking performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies, Wearable Devices and Smartphones: Improving Accessibility and Inclusion for Older and Disabled People)

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23 pages, 3292 KB

Open AccessArticle

Implication of Digital Marketing in the Supply Chain Finance of the Beverage Industry

by Nikolaos T. Giannakopoulos, Damianos P. Sakas, Kanellos Toudas and Panagiotis Karountzos

Int. J. Financial Stud. 2025, 13(4), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijfs13040189 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

This paper investigates the role of digital marketing signals as alternative data for understanding financial and operational dynamics in the beverage supply chain. Drawing on web analytics covering multiple actors across a five-month horizon, we analyze traffic composition, user engagement, and acquisition channels [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the role of digital marketing signals as alternative data for understanding financial and operational dynamics in the beverage supply chain. Drawing on web analytics covering multiple actors across a five-month horizon, we analyze traffic composition, user engagement, and acquisition channels through a panel econometric framework. Descriptive statistics reveal pronounced heterogeneity in channel reliance, with some firms emphasizing organic search visibility while others depend more on paid campaigns or social referrals. Correlation patterns indicate strong substitution between organic and paid search, while display advertising is positively associated with session depth, suggesting that differentiated digital strategies influence user engagement. Analysis of variance confirms significant structural differences across firms, with an effect size exceeding 0.90. A two-way fixed-effects regression demonstrates that brand-specific factors explain the vast majority of variation in digital visibility, overshadowing short-term fluctuations. These results highlight the potential of web-derived marketing metrics to serve as leading indicators of supply chain finance outcomes such as revenue growth, working-capital efficiency, and investor sentiment. By integrating digital signals into financial econometrics, this study contributes to emerging research on alternative data in supply chain contexts and offers practical implications for managers, investors, and policymakers. Full article

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15 pages, 5296 KB

Open AccessArticle

Boosting Caloric Performances of Ni-Co-Mn-Ti Shape Memory Alloy for Multi-Scenario Refrigeration by Spark Plasma Sintering

by Hongyuan Tang, Ziqi Guan, Yanze Wu, Zhenzhuang Li, Jiaqi Liu and Xing Lu

Materials 2025, 18(20), 4691; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18204691 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

In this study, Ni₃₇Co₁₃Mn_33.5+xTi_16.5–x alloys with different particle sizes (75–150 μm, 50–75 μm, 0–50 μm) were successfully fabricated using spark plasma sintering under different processing conditions. By adjusting the composition of alloy and particle [...] Read more.

In this study, Ni₃₇Co₁₃Mn_33.5+xTi_16.5–x alloys with different particle sizes (75–150 μm, 50–75 μm, 0–50 μm) were successfully fabricated using spark plasma sintering under different processing conditions. By adjusting the composition of alloy and particle size, a significant transformation entropy change and the generation of a suitable amount of second phases along the grain boundaries were achieved in the SPS Ni₃₇Co₁₃Mn_34.5Ti_15.5 alloy with a particle size range of 0–50 μm. The mechanical properties of this optimized alloy were excellent, exhibiting a compressive strength of 2005 MPa and a fracture strain of 27%. Furthermore, under a loading rate of 0.28 s⁻¹, the alloy demonstrated an adiabatic temperature change of up to 34.2 K. In addition, the alloy also exhibited a barocaloric effect under low-pressure conditions, achieving a substantial entropy change of 16.1 J·kg⁻¹·K⁻¹ and an estimated adiabatic temperature change of 11.2 K under 100 MPa pressure. Through these results, SPS Ni₃₇Co₁₃Mn_34.5Ti_15.5 alloy is proved to be a potential candidate for solid-state refrigeration applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Magnetic Shape Memory Alloys: Fundamentals and Applications)

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35 pages, 777 KB

Open AccessReview

Predictive Autonomy for UAV Remote Sensing: A Survey of Video Prediction

by Zhan Chen, Enze Zhu, Zile Guo, Peirong Zhang, Xiaoxuan Liu, Lei Wang and Yidan Zhang

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(20), 3423; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17203423 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

The analysis of dynamic remote sensing scenes from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is shifting from reactive processing to proactive, predictive intelligence. Central to this evolution is video prediction—forecasting future imagery from past observations—which enables critical remote sensing applications like persistent environmental monitoring, occlusion-robust [...] Read more.

The analysis of dynamic remote sensing scenes from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is shifting from reactive processing to proactive, predictive intelligence. Central to this evolution is video prediction—forecasting future imagery from past observations—which enables critical remote sensing applications like persistent environmental monitoring, occlusion-robust object tracking, and infrastructure anomaly detection under challenging aerial conditions. Yet, a systematic review of video prediction models tailored for the unique constraints of aerial remote sensing has been lacking. Existing taxonomies often obscure key design choices, especially for emerging operators like state-space models (SSMs). We address this gap by proposing a unified, multi-dimensional taxonomy with three orthogonal axes: (i) operator architecture; (ii) generative nature; and (iii) training/inference regime. Through this lens, we analyze recent methods, clarifying their trade-offs for deployment on UAV platforms that demand processing of high-resolution, long-horizon video streams under tight resource constraints. Our review assesses the utility of these models for key applications like proactive infrastructure inspection and wildlife tracking. We then identify open problems—from the scarcity of annotated aerial video data to evaluation beyond pixel-level metrics—and chart future directions. We highlight a convergence toward scalable dynamic world models for geospatial intelligence, which leverage physics-informed learning, multimodal fusion, and action-conditioning, powered by efficient operators like SSMs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reviews in Remote Sensing Image Processing: Methods, Architectures, and Applications)

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15 pages, 1948 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of O-Glycosylation and N-Glycosylation in Bispecific Antibodies and Its Importance in Therapeutic Antibody Development

by Maoqin Duan, Luyun Guo, Zhen Long, Yongbo Ni, Yalan Yang, Jialiang Du, Meng Li, Jialing Zhang, Tao Tang, Chuanfei Yu and Lan Wang

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(10), 1538; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18101538 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study comprehensively characterized the O- and N-glycosylation profiles of bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) via advanced analytical techniques to evaluate their structural and functional implications. Methods: High-resolution MS revealed O-xylosylation at Ser468 within the (G4S)4 linker peptide, which [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: This study comprehensively characterized the O- and N-glycosylation profiles of bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) via advanced analytical techniques to evaluate their structural and functional implications. Methods: High-resolution MS revealed O-xylosylation at Ser468 within the (G4S)4 linker peptide, which was identified as xylose with a molecular weight of 132.042 Da. HILIC-HPLC analysis of N-glycosylation revealed glycan species engineered to eliminate Fc effector functions. O-glycosylation analysis via β-elimination followed by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD) identified xylose as the predominant glycan. Results: O-xylosylation does not affect the binding of BsAbs to either antigen Programmed Death-1 (PD-1) or Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). Notably, O-xylosylation interactions with mannose receptor represent the first discovery highlighting potential immunomodulatory roles. Conclusions: This study highlights the critical importance of monitoring comprehensive glycosylation characterization during the development of BsAb with (G4S)n linkers to ensure optimal therapeutic efficacy, safety, and reduced immunogenic potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biopharmaceuticals)

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17 pages, 1732 KB

Open AccessArticle

Construction and Variation Analysis of Comprehensive Climate Indicators for Winter Wheat in Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Region, China

by Chang Liu, Jie Hu, Lei Wang, Ming Li, Wenyi Xie, Yining Zhu, Ruijie Che, Lianxi Wang, Jing Hua and Jian Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9054; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209054 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Under the global climate change, variations in climatic elements such as temperature, precipitation, and sunshine duration significantly impact the growth, development, and yield formation of winter wheat. A precise understanding of the impact of climate change on winter wheat growth and the scientific [...] Read more.

Under the global climate change, variations in climatic elements such as temperature, precipitation, and sunshine duration significantly impact the growth, development, and yield formation of winter wheat. A precise understanding of the impact of climate change on winter wheat growth and the scientific use of meteorological resources are crucial for ensuring food security, optimizing agricultural planting structures and agricultural sustainability. This study uses statistical methods and focuses on the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, utilizing data from 25 meteorological stations from 1961 to 2010 and winter wheat yield data from 1978 to 2010. Twelve refined indicators encompassing temperature, precipitation, and sunshine duration were constructed. Path analysis was employed to determine their weights, establishing a comprehensive climate indicator model. Results indicate: Temperature indicators in the region show an upward trend, with accumulated temperature of the whole growth period increasing at a rate of 61.1 °C·d/10a. Precipitation indicators reveal precipitation of the whole growth period rising at 3.9 mm/10a and pre-winter precipitation increasing at 4.2 mm/10a. Sunshine duration exhibits a declining trend, decreasing at 72.7 h/10a during the whole growth period. Comprehensive climate indicators decrease from south to north, with the southwest region exhibiting the highest tendency rate (18.41), while the central and southern regions show greater variability. This study provides scientific basis for optimizing winter wheat planting patterns and rational utilization of climate resources in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region. It recommends prioritizing cultivation in western southern Hebei and improving water conditions in the central and northern areas through irrigation technology to support sustainable crop production. Full article

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16 pages, 762 KB

Open AccessArticle

Extraction of Seed Oil from Heracleum persicum Desf. ex Fischer and Investigation of Its Composition, Qualitative and Nutraceutical Properties

by Abdolah Dadazadeh, Sodeif Azadmard-Damirchi, Zahra Piravi-Vanak, Mohammadali Torbati and Fleming Martinez

Foods 2025, 14(20), 3486; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14203486 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Heracleum persicum Desf. ex Fischer, a species of the Apiaceae family, is endemic to Iran and has been historically utilized as a spice, condiment, and medicinal plant. The plant produces seeds that represent a potential new source of vegetable oil. In this study, [...] Read more.

Heracleum persicum Desf. ex Fischer, a species of the Apiaceae family, is endemic to Iran and has been historically utilized as a spice, condiment, and medicinal plant. The plant produces seeds that represent a potential new source of vegetable oil. In this study, the oil from these seeds was extracted using a solvent, and its physical, chemical, and nutritional properties were investigated. The oil extraction yield was determined to be 12.62%. Oleic acid (61.11%) and linoleic acid (25.84%) were identified as the predominant fatty acids in the extracted oil. Among its phytosterols, beta-sitosterol (65.6%) and stigmasterol (14.0%) were the most abundant. Furthermore, this oil exclusively contained alpha-tocopherol at a relatively high concentration (1610.9 ppm). The chlorophyll and carotenoid contents of the extracted oil were 28.34 mg/kg and 4.95 mg/kg, respectively. Regarding its nutritional indices, the atherogenic index, thrombogenic index, and hypocholesterolemic to hypercholesterolemic ratio were 0.13, 0.24, and 9.77, respectively. In conclusion, considering its unique oil composition and qualitative characteristics, this oil holds promise as a novel source of vegetable oil and a valuable byproduct of Heracleum persicum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Edible Fats and Oils: Composition, Properties and Nutrition)

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2 pages, 142 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Glaucoma Research in Transition: Mechanistic Insights, Novel Therapies, and Digital Frontiers

by Wei-Ting Yen and Da-Wen Lu

Biomedicines 2025, 13(10), 2491; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13102491 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Glaucoma continues to be one of the primary causes of irreversible blindness worldwide [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glaucoma: New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches, 2nd Edition)

13 pages, 5859 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influences of SiO₂ Additions on the Structures and Thermal Properties of AlTaO₄ Ceramics as EBC Materials

by Bingyan Wu, Luyang Zhang, Lin Chen, Jiankun Wang, Zipeng Gao and Jing Feng

Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1204; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101204 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are extensively utilized in aero engines due to their high-temperature stability; however, they are prone to environmental corrosion at high temperatures, and environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) are necessary to resist oxidation and corrosion. Among various EBC materials, AlTaO₄ [...] Read more.

Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are extensively utilized in aero engines due to their high-temperature stability; however, they are prone to environmental corrosion at high temperatures, and environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) are necessary to resist oxidation and corrosion. Among various EBC materials, AlTaO₄ offers high cost-effectiveness and low thermal expansion coefficients (TECs), but its resistance to SiO₂ erosion and high-temperature stability remain unclear. We investigated the influences of SiO₂ additions on the structures and thermal properties of AlTaO₄; and AlTaO₄ mixtures containing 10 wt.% SiO₂ were kept at 1400 °C for 30–120 h. AlTaO₄ exhibited excellent high-temperature phase stability, and SiO₂ dissolved into AlTaO₄ to generate a solid solution. XRD Rietveld refinement was employed to confirm the position of Si in the lattices, while SEM and EDS characterizations demonstrated the homogeneous distribution of Si, Al, and Ta elements. At 1200 °C, the TECs of SiO₂-AlTaO₄ (4.65 × 10⁻⁶ K⁻¹) were close to those of SiC (4.5–5.5 × 10⁻⁶ K⁻¹). Additionally, the addition of SiO₂ could reduce TECs of AlTaO₄, a feature that helped alleviate the interface thermal stress between AlTaO₄ and the Si bond coat in the EBC systems. At 900 °C, the thermal conductivity was reduced by 26.9% compared to that of AlTaO₄, and the lowest value was 1.65 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹. Accordingly, SiO₂ will enter the lattices of AlTaO₄ after heat treatments at 1400 °C, and SiO₂ additions will reduce the thermal conductivity and TECs of AlTaO₄, which is beneficial for its EBC applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ceramic Coatings and Engineering Technology)

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23 pages, 4523 KB

Open AccessArticle

Lung Nodule Malignancy Classification Integrating Deep and Radiomic Features in a Three-Way Attention-Based Fusion Module

by Sadaf Khademi, Shahin Heidarian, Parnian Afshar, Arash Mohammadi, Abdul Sidiqi, Elsie T. Nguyen, Balaji Ganeshan and Anastasia Oikonomou

J. Imaging 2025, 11(10), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/jimaging11100360 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

In this study, we propose a novel hybrid framework for assessing the invasiveness of an in-house dataset of 114 pathologically proven lung adenocarcinomas presenting as subsolid nodules on Computed Tomography (CT). Nodules were classified into group 1 (G1), which included atypical adenomatous hyperplasia, [...] Read more.

In this study, we propose a novel hybrid framework for assessing the invasiveness of an in-house dataset of 114 pathologically proven lung adenocarcinomas presenting as subsolid nodules on Computed Tomography (CT). Nodules were classified into group 1 (G1), which included atypical adenomatous hyperplasia, adenocarcinoma in situ, and minimally invasive adenocarcinomas, and group 2 (G2), which included invasive adenocarcinomas. Our approach includes a three-way Integration of Visual, Spatial, and Temporal features with Attention, referred to as I-VISTA, obtained from three processing algorithms designed based on Deep Learning (DL) and radiomic models, leading to a more comprehensive analysis of nodule variations. The aforementioned processing algorithms are arranged in the following three parallel paths: (i) The Shifted Window (SWin) Transformer path, which is a hierarchical vision Transformer that extracts nodules’ related spatial features; (ii) The Convolutional Auto-Encoder (CAE) Transformer path, which captures informative features related to inter-slice relations via a modified Transformer encoder architecture; and (iii) a 3D Radiomic-based path that collects quantitative features based on texture analysis of each nodule. Extracted feature sets are then passed through the Criss-Cross attention fusion module to discover the most informative feature patterns and classify nodules type. The experiments were evaluated based on a ten-fold cross-validation scheme. I-VISTA framework achieved the best performance of overall accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity (mean ± std) of 93.93 ± 6.80%, 92.66 ± 9.04%, and 94.99 ± 7.63% with an Area under the ROC Curve (AUC) of 0.93 ± 0.08 for lung nodule classification among ten folds. The hybrid framework integrating DL and hand-crafted 3D Radiomic model outperformed the standalone DL and hand-crafted 3D Radiomic model in differentiating G1 from G2 subsolid nodules identified on CT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress and Challenges in Biomedical Image Analysis—2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 300 KB

Open AccessArticle

Chromosome 12 and Environmental Factors in Parkinson’s Disease: An All of Us Data Analysis

by Kenta Abe and Karen Niemchick

Genes 2025, 16(10), 1197; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16101197 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease that develops with age and is related to a decline in motor function. Studies suggest that the causes may be based on genetic dysfunction including PARK gene mutations and environmental factors. Methods: To explore those [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease that develops with age and is related to a decline in motor function. Studies suggest that the causes may be based on genetic dysfunction including PARK gene mutations and environmental factors. Methods: To explore those factors, we used multivariable logistic regression to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and adjusted ORs by using the All of Us Dataset which contains genomic, blood test, and other environmental data. Results: On Chromosome 12, there were 3709 candidate genetic polymorphisms (GPs) that are associated with PD. Of those GPs, fourteen GPs had high ORs which are similar to the OR of the PARK8 gene G2019S mutation. Of those 3709 GPs, a 2.00-fold change in OR was observed in five GPs located at bases 53,711,362 (OR = 4.86, 95% CI [1.46, 16.18]), 31,281,818 (OR = 4.37, 95% CI [1.02, 18.82]), 101,921,705 (OR = 5.38, 95% CI [1.23, 23.51]), 47,968,795 (OR = 7.82, 95% CI [1.81, 33.83]), and 112,791,809 (OR = 8.05, 95% CI [1.85, 35.05]) by calcium, Vitamin D, and alcohol intake and were statistically significant. Conclusions: The results suggest that the progression of some PD caused by certain GPs can be delayed or prevented by the environmental factors above. In February 2025, All of Us released the CT Dataset v.8 which has a 50% increase in the number of participants. Potentially, it may be possible to research more GPs and environmental factors. In future studies, we would like to explore other environmental factors and GPs on other chromosomes. It is believed that specific GPs may tailor current treatments and qualify patients for clinical trials. Additionally, genetic knowledge may help increase accuracy in clinical trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Genes: Feature Papers in “Neurogenetics and Neurogenomics”)

14 pages, 5586 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Suspected Tumor-Related Hemorrhage as a Rare Complication of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy in a Dog with Cranial Mediastinal Mass: A Case Report

by Jaewon Kim, Inseong Jeong, Chul Park, Younghwan Kim, Kidong Eom and Jaehwan Kim

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100982 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has been increasingly used in dogs for mediastinal tumors and is generally considered a precise and relatively safe treatment, with clinically significant complications reported only rarely. A cranial mediastinal mass was incidentally identified in a 10-year-old Pomeranian dog and [...] Read more.

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has been increasingly used in dogs for mediastinal tumors and is generally considered a precise and relatively safe treatment, with clinically significant complications reported only rarely. A cranial mediastinal mass was incidentally identified in a 10-year-old Pomeranian dog and cytologically diagnosed as a carcinoma. SBRT was performed using volumetric-modulated arc therapy, with a total dose of 27 Gy delivered in three fractions on alternate days. One day after completing treatment, the dog developed acute dyspnea and anemia. Thoracic radiography revealed mediastinal widening and pleural effusion. Subsequent imaging and hematological assessments suggested intra-tumoral hemorrhage and hematoma formation. The patient was managed conservatively with supportive therapy, resulting in gradual clinical improvement. Follow-up computed tomography (CT) demonstrated a 25% reduction in contrast-enhancing tumor volume, accompanied by a large non-enhancing region presumed to represent hematoma. Despite these changes, the patient remained clinically stable during follow-up. This case represents the first documented report of an acute hemorrhagic complication following SBRT in a veterinary patient, emphasizing the importance of awareness of this rare adverse event during treatment planning and client communication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focus on Tumours in Pet Animals: 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 4830 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hair-Template Confinement Assembly of Nanomaterials Enables a Robust Single-Hair Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectrocopy Platform for Trace Analysis

by Miao Qin, Siyu Chen, Tao Xie, Mingwen Ma and Cong Wang

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(20), 1557; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15201557 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) enables ultra-sensitive molecular detection and has broad analytical and biomedical applications; recent advances focus on high-performance substrates and innovative detection strategies. However, achieving controllable and reproducible substrate fabrication—particularly using natural templates such as hair—remains challenging, limiting SERS application in [...] Read more.

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) enables ultra-sensitive molecular detection and has broad analytical and biomedical applications; recent advances focus on high-performance substrates and innovative detection strategies. However, achieving controllable and reproducible substrate fabrication—particularly using natural templates such as hair—remains challenging, limiting SERS application in trace analysis and on-site detection. This study developed a single-hair in situ SERS platform using a natural hair template. Confinement within hair cuticle grooves and capillary-evaporation assembly enables dense arrangement of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide-coated Au nanorods and polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated Au nanoparticles, forming uniform plasmonic nanoarrays. Spectroscopy and microscopy analyses confirmed the regular alignment of nanostructures along the hair axis with denser packing at the edges. The platform detected crystal violet at 10⁻⁹ M, yielding clear signals, negligible background, and stable peaks after repeated washing. For p-phenylenediamine, enhancement was observed down to 10⁻⁶ M. On the platform, a concentration-dependent response appeared within 10⁻³–10⁻⁵ M, with spatial Raman imaging along the hair axis. Capillary-evaporation coupling and interfacial wettability facilitated solute enrichment from larger to smaller gap hotspots, improving signal-to-noise ratio and reproducibility. This portable, low-cost, and scalable method supports rapid on-site screening in complex matrixes, offering a general strategy for hotspot engineering and programmable assembly on natural templates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)

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20 pages, 49845 KB

Open AccessArticle

DDF-YOLO: A Small Target Detection Model Using Multi-Scale Dynamic Feature Fusion for UAV Aerial Photography

by Ziang Ma, Chao Wang, Chuanzhi Chen, Jinbao Chen and Guang Zheng

Aerospace 2025, 12(10), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12100920 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based object detection shows promising potential in intelligent transportation and disaster response. However, detecting small targets remains challenging due to inherent limitations (long-distance and low-resolution imaging) and environmental interference (complex backgrounds and occlusions). To address these issues, this paper proposes [...] Read more.

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based object detection shows promising potential in intelligent transportation and disaster response. However, detecting small targets remains challenging due to inherent limitations (long-distance and low-resolution imaging) and environmental interference (complex backgrounds and occlusions). To address these issues, this paper proposes an enhanced small target detection model, DDF-YOLO, which achieves higher detection performance. First, a dynamic feature extraction module (C2f-DCNv4) employs deformable convolutions to effectively capture features from irregularly shaped objects. In addition, a dynamic upsampling module (DySample) optimizes multi-scale feature fusion by combining shallow spatial details with deep semantic features, preserving critical low-level information while enhancing generalization across scales. Finally, to balance rapid convergence with precise localization, an adaptive Focaler-ECIoU loss function dynamically adjusts training weights based on sample quality during bounding box regression. Extensive experiments on VisDrone2019 and UAVDT benchmarks demonstrate DDF-YOLO’s superiority. Compared to YOLOv8n, our model achieves gains of 8.6% and 4.8% in mAP50, along with improvements of 5.0% and 3.3% in mAP50-95, respectively. Furthermore, it exhibits superior efficiency, requiring only 7.3 GFLOPs and attaining an inference speed of 179 FPS. These results validate the model’s robustness for UAV-based detection, particularly in small-object scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Aeronautics)

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14 pages, 248 KB

Open AccessArticle

Thinking, Feeling, and Moving in Kindergarten Children: How Motor Competence Shapes Executive Function Skills and Emotion Comprehension in Girls

by Elena A. Chichinina, Aleksander N. Veraksa, Olga V. Almazova and Linda S. Pagani

Children 2025, 12(10), 1381; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12101381 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Increased screen time partially replaces social interaction, physical activity, and outdoor play in kindergarten children, leading to a risk of decreased cognitive, emotional, and motor skills. Children with high motor skills are more likely to have access to challenging joint activities [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Increased screen time partially replaces social interaction, physical activity, and outdoor play in kindergarten children, leading to a risk of decreased cognitive, emotional, and motor skills. Children with high motor skills are more likely to have access to challenging joint activities that promote their cognitive and emotional development. This study examines the moderating role of motor competence in the relationship between executive function skills and emotion comprehension. Methods: A sample of 220 kindergarten children (101 girls, 119 boys) completed the NEPSY-II subtests and the ‘Dimensional Change Card Sort’ tool for executive function skills assessment, the Movement Assessment Battery for Children—Second Edition (MABC-2) for motor competence, and the Test of Emotion Comprehension (TEC) for emotion comprehension. Executive function skills and motor competence were assessed when children were in their penultimate year of kindergarten (children were aged on average 5 years 10 months), and emotion comprehension was assessed one year later, when children were in their final year of kindergarten. When children were in their penultimate year of kindergarten, caregivers also reported on children’s passive and active screen time, maternal education, and family income, which were used as control variables. Results: For girls, motor competence moderated the relationship between cognitive flexibility and later emotion comprehension. High motor competence amplified this relationship (B = 0.171; SE = 0.066; 95% CI [0.041, 0.302]; p = 0.011). For boys, there were no significant moderation effects. Conclusions: High motor competence can improve emotion comprehension in kindergarten girls. Emotional development may benefit from effective shared motor interventions for children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical and Motor Development in Children)

25 pages, 4052 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Critical Barriers to Utilization of Solid Waste as Building Material (USB) in China: An Integrated DEMATEL Approach

by Sujuan Zhou, Lixiong Cai, Dingkun Xie, Yaohui Xia and Mingjing Chang

Buildings 2025, 15(20), 3679; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15203679 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

Utilization of solid waste as building material (USB) is a promising strategy that effectively addresses the challenges of safety and environmental pollution posed by solid waste and alleviates the scarcity of natural resources to facilitate the sustainable production of building materials. However, USB [...] Read more.

Utilization of solid waste as building material (USB) is a promising strategy that effectively addresses the challenges of safety and environmental pollution posed by solid waste and alleviates the scarcity of natural resources to facilitate the sustainable production of building materials. However, USB implementation and promotion have not yet matured in China because of various barriers. Therefore, this study employed the GT-DEMATEL-ISM-MACMIC model to identify the critical factors in USB implementation and examine the interactions and relationships among barriers to propose targeted recommendations. The results identified 33 barriers and revealed a distinct causal hierarchy. It was found that the macro-level barriers at the apex of the hierarchy, ‘incomplete policies and legislation’, ‘poor supervision and regulation of solid waste’, and ‘insufficient financial subsidies and incentives’, are critical barriers to USB implementation. A key outcome of this study is the identification of the most critical and obstinate barrier path evolution in USB implementation, where incomplete policies and regulations (P1, P2) lead to underdeveloped markets and capital (M6, E2), as well as low stakeholder motivation (S4), which in turn, exacerbates policy inertia and traps USB development in a state of deadlock. Conversely, detail-level barriers at the technical and managerial levels, such as ‘limited innovation in management models’ and ‘single type and limited application of renewable building material’, tend to be less influential than other barriers. Therefore, USB promotion can be achieved by strengthening policies and legislation, improving policy systems, and increasing financial subsidies. The results of this study will assist China and other developing countries in identifying critical barriers to USB implementation, offer practical approaches for promoting USB implementation, and provide methodological guidance for similar studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

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19 pages, 3035 KB

Open AccessArticle

Containment Control of Fractional-Order Time-Delay Multi-Agent Systems Employing a Fully Distributed Pull-Based Event-Triggered Approach

by Jing Bai, Yaxuan Cai, Xue Xia, Xiaohe Li and Guoguang Wen

Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(10), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9100658 (registering DOI) - 13 Oct 2025

Abstract

The current study explores the fully distributed containment control problem of fractional-order time-delay multi-agent systems by introducing a novel pull-based dynamic event-triggered approach. Firstly, to reduce communication overhead and mitigate time delays in controller updates, a pull-based dynamic event-triggered strategy is proposed. Secondly, [...] Read more.

The current study explores the fully distributed containment control problem of fractional-order time-delay multi-agent systems by introducing a novel pull-based dynamic event-triggered approach. Firstly, to reduce communication overhead and mitigate time delays in controller updates, a pull-based dynamic event-triggered strategy is proposed. Secondly, in virtue of a Lyapunov candidate function, the proposed pull-based dynamic event-triggered control protocol exhibits inherent distributed properties enabling agents to operate independently and cooperatively without global information. Thirdly, we design adaptive parameters to ensure containment control convergence and provide a rigorous proof to preclude Zeno behavior. Eventually, numerical simulations are performed to verify the validity of the theoretical analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Modeling of Fractional-Order Dynamical Networks)

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