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6 pages, 2060 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Cherenkov Camera for the PBR Mission

by Beatrice Panico, Roberto Ammendola, Antonio Anastasio, Davide Badoni, Mario Bertaina, Francesco Cafagna, Donatella Campana, Marco Casolino, Cristian De Santis, Andrea Di Salvo, Raffaele Gargiulo, Alessandro Marcelli, Laura Marcelli, Vincenzo Masone, Marco Mese, Marco Mignone, Giuseppe Osteria, Giuseppe Passeggio, Francesco Perfetto, Haroon Akhtar Qureshi, Enzo Reali, Ester Ricci and Valentina Scotti Show full author list Hide full author list

Particles 2025, 8(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/particles8040090 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

POEMMA-Balloon with Radio (PBR) is designed as a payload for a NASA suborbital Super Pressure Balloon that will circle over the Southern Ocean and a mission duration as long as 50 days. The PBR instrument consists of a 1.1 m aperture Schmidt telescope [...] Read more.

POEMMA-Balloon with Radio (PBR) is designed as a payload for a NASA suborbital Super Pressure Balloon that will circle over the Southern Ocean and a mission duration as long as 50 days. The PBR instrument consists of a 1.1 m aperture Schmidt telescope similar to the POEMMA design with two cameras in its focal surface: a Fluorescence Camera (FC) and a Cherenkov Camera (CC). The CC camera is mainly devoted to the observation of cosmic-ray-induced high-altitude horizontal air showers (HAHAs) and search for neutrino-induced upward-going EAS. It will be made of 2048 SiPMs with a surface of 3 × 3 mm

^{2}

and a FoV of 12

^{\circ}

by 6

^{\circ}

, covering a spectral range of 320–900 nm. The CC camera is an innovative detector currently under construction. In this paper, information about its current status will be given. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Space AstroParticle Physics: Frontier Technologies for Particle Measurements in Space, 2025 Edition)

30 pages, 3329 KB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Layered Double Hydroxide (LDH)-Based Materials for Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia: A Comprehensive Review

by Sayali S. Kulkarni, Ganesh L. Khande, Jayavant L. Gunjakar and Valmiki B. Koli

Nitrogen 2025, 6(4), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/nitrogen6040106 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Nitrogen (N₂), constituting the majority of Earth’s atmosphere, remains indispensable for biological systems and underpins modern agriculture and industry. Traditionally, the Haber–Bosch process has been essential for synthesizing ammonia (NH₃) from N₂ under high temperature and pressure, but [...] Read more.

Nitrogen (N₂), constituting the majority of Earth’s atmosphere, remains indispensable for biological systems and underpins modern agriculture and industry. Traditionally, the Haber–Bosch process has been essential for synthesizing ammonia (NH₃) from N₂ under high temperature and pressure, but it contributes significantly to global CO₂ emissions. Recently, carbon-free electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction (e-NRR) has emerged as a promising, eco-friendly, and cost-effective approach for green NH₃ production under mild conditions using renewable energy, offering a sustainable alternative to the fossil fuel dependent Haber–Bosch process. This work explores NRR by contrasting the limitations of Haber–Bosch with the advantages of electrocatalysis. Despite progress, electrochemical N₂ reduction to NH₃ production remains challenging due to low activity, poor selectivity, stability, efficiency, and detection issues. Developing efficient e-NRR electrocatalysts is crucial to enhance activity, suppress hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), boost NH₃ yield, and improve Faradaic efficiency. This review highlights the role of layered double hydroxide (LDH) catalysts in e-NRR, summarizing the fundamental process, reaction pathways, and synthesis strategies. Ammonia detection methods, key metrics, and potential contamination issues are compared to inform standard NRR measurement protocols. Lastly, we summarize key findings to synthesize and improve LDH electrocatalysts for NH₃ production and a sustainable, carbon-free N₂ economy. Full article

29 pages, 4663 KB

Open AccessArticle

Galanthamine Fails to Reverse P-gp-Mediated Paclitaxel Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines

by Nélia Fonseca, Mariana Nunes, Patrícia M. A. Silva, Hassan Bousbaa and Sara Ricardo

Biomedicines 2025, 13(12), 2852; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13122852 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background: Ovarian cancer has the poorest prognosis of all gynecological malignancies, largely due to its chemoresistance, which poses significant treatment challenges. In this context, drug repurposing emerges as an innovative strategy that employs non-cancer treatments to interact with various signaling pathways, enhancing [...] Read more.

Background: Ovarian cancer has the poorest prognosis of all gynecological malignancies, largely due to its chemoresistance, which poses significant treatment challenges. In this context, drug repurposing emerges as an innovative strategy that employs non-cancer treatments to interact with various signaling pathways, enhancing chemotherapy efficacy while minimizing toxicity. This study investigated the cytotoxic effects of galanthamine, currently used as an Alzheimer’s disease, as a potential treatment for high-grade serous carcinoma, both individually and in combination with paclitaxel. Methods: The Presto Blue assay, viability marker assessments, immunocytochemical analysis of apoptosis, and a cumulative assay were employed to evaluate the functionality of P-glycoprotein. Results: The results indicated that galanthamine did not demonstrate cytotoxic or synergistic effects in either high-grade serous carcinoma cell line tested, suggesting that it is not a viable strategy for overcoming paclitaxel resistance in this context. The immunocytochemistry analysis indicated that galanthamine does not affect the expression of proteins related to cell viability and proliferation and is not associated with chemoresistance. Additionally, functional assays showed that galanthamine treatment did not affect its drug efflux function at the cellular level. Conclusions: Overall, the results indicate that galanthamine is unsuitable for reversing paclitaxel resistance despite some literature suggesting its potential interaction with P-glycoprotein. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Ovarian Cancer)

24 pages, 694 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review of the Need for Conceptual Models of Imagery Experiences

by Teodor Ukov, Maksim Sharabov and Georgi Tsochev

Systems 2025, 13(12), 1051; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13121051 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

It is reasonable to argue that researching imagery experiences requires substantial use of conceptual modeling. Cognitive architectures have been used to explain cognitive phenomena like perception, action, and information gathering, and to model them in computational solutions. However, the question arises: Is there [...] Read more.

It is reasonable to argue that researching imagery experiences requires substantial use of conceptual modeling. Cognitive architectures have been used to explain cognitive phenomena like perception, action, and information gathering, and to model them in computational solutions. However, the question arises: Is there a lack of cognitive architectures or models that represent relational and classificatory knowledge of imagery experiences? This systematic review defines the concepts of cognitive architecture and cognitive model and examines how recent research relates the concepts to imagery experiences. A concept token research methodology is applied in search of keywords and key phrases that signify occurrences of targeted concepts. The methodology is viewed as a way to define a research area based on the concept of mental imagery and other related concepts that expand this area. The results demonstrate a significant and steady upward trend in publications from the research area in the last few years. The concepts of mental imagery and motor imagery emerged as the most regularly discussed, while others, such as imagery experiences, sensorimotor, mental model and active vision, were addressed rather rarely and thus represent new avenues for investigation. Full article

24 pages, 3840 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Socialism to Market Economy in Central Europe’s Mountains: Interactions Between Population and Land Cover Changes in the Polish Carpathians

by Rafał Kroczak, Tomasz Bryndal, Sławomir Dorocki and Janusz Olszak

Land 2025, 14(12), 2302; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14122302 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

The socio-economic transformations that occurred across Central Europe in the 1990s profoundly influenced spatial development, as reflected in changes in population density and land cover, particularly in mountainous regions. This study investigates the relationship between population dynamics and land cover changes in the [...] Read more.

The socio-economic transformations that occurred across Central Europe in the 1990s profoundly influenced spatial development, as reflected in changes in population density and land cover, particularly in mountainous regions. This study investigates the relationship between population dynamics and land cover changes in the Polish Carpathians during the 20-year period following 1989, i.e., a time of major political and economic transformation. The research was conducted using detailed data based on 36 variables for 2250 statistical units at the lowest administrative level, combined with GIS-based analyses and statistical modelling. Results show that population density increased in more than 75% of administrative units, although the magnitude and direction of change varied considerably, both vertically and horizontally. The strongest growth occurred in the northern part of the study area, in the Foothills while depopulation was observed at higher elevations and in the eastern parts of the region. Land cover changes affected about 90% of administrative units, with built-up and infrastructural areas expanding mainly at the expense of heterogeneous agricultural land. At the same time, forest and shrub vegetation increased due to agricultural abandonment and natural regeneration. Principal component and mixed-model analyses identified topography, settlement location, and transport accessibility as the most significant drivers linking population and land cover changes. The findings highlight the lasting influence of historical spatial structures and initial demographic patterns on present-day development ways, illustrating how post-socialist transformation and EU integration have reshaped population distribution and land use in mountainous regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Landscape Ecology)

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26 pages, 993 KB

Open AccessArticle

TruMPET: A New Method for Protein Secondary Structure Prediction Using Neural Networks Trained on Multiple Pre-Selected Physicochemical and Structural Features

by Yury V. Milchevskiy, Galina I. Kravatskaya and Yury V. Kravatsky

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(23), 11284; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262311284 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Protein structure prediction continues to pose multiple challenges, despite the progress made by ML. While recent deep learning models have achieved a strong performance using embeddings from protein language models, they often ignore non-canonical amino acids and rely heavily on sequence alignments or [...] Read more.

Protein structure prediction continues to pose multiple challenges, despite the progress made by ML. While recent deep learning models have achieved a strong performance using embeddings from protein language models, they often ignore non-canonical amino acids and rely heavily on sequence alignments or evolutionary profiles. Here, we present an improvement to this approach for predicting the secondary protein structure of DSSP classes solely from amino acid sequences. We suggest that ML feature sets should be generated from statistically significant mutually uncorrelated descriptors. The selection of statistically assessed descriptors, including predicting the physicochemical parameters of non-canonical amino acids, is a key component of the proposed method. The statistical significance and influence of each of the suggested features were assessed using a two-step Linear Discriminant Analysis, which permitted the evaluation of the statistical significance of each descriptor and their impact on model accuracy. We applied the set of 109 most influential statistically significant descriptors as a learning model for the two-layer Bi-LSTM network combined with ESMFold2 embeddings. Our method, TruMPET (Training upon Multiple Pre-selected Elements Technique), outperformed all other methods reported in the literature for the non-redundant datasets (CB513: DSSP Q3 = 91.36% and Q8 = 85.41%, TEST2018: DSSP Q3 = 90.64% and Q8 = 84.17%). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research of Protein Structure Prediction and Design)

17 pages, 621 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Data to Decisions: Using Explainable Machine Learning to Predict EuroLeague Basketball Outcomes

by Panagiotis F. Foteinakis, Christos Kokkotis, Georgios Karamousalidis, Alexandra Avloniti, Stefania Pavlidou, Nikolaos Zaras, Theodoros Stampoulis, Dimitrios Pantazis, Panagiotis Aggelakis, Dimitrios Balampanos, Junshi Liu, Konstantinos Laparidis and Athanasios Chatzinikolaou

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(23), 12401; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152312401 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Predicting basketball game outcomes in elite competitions is a complex task influenced by multiple interacting performance factors. This study applied a supervised machine learning (ML) framework to predict EuroLeague game outcomes using team-level game-related statistics. Four algorithms—Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), [...] Read more.

Predicting basketball game outcomes in elite competitions is a complex task influenced by multiple interacting performance factors. This study applied a supervised machine learning (ML) framework to predict EuroLeague game outcomes using team-level game-related statistics. Four algorithms—Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Naïve Bayes (NB)—were trained and compared following recursive feature elimination (RFE) to identify the most informative predictors. The dataset comprised comprehensive in-game statistics describing shooting efficiency, rebounding, ball security, and spatial shot distribution. Model performance was evaluated using accuracy, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), precision, recall, and F1-score, ensuring both discrimination and calibration assessment. Among the four classifiers, SVM (AUC = 0.922, Accuracy = 0.841) and LR (AUC = 0.933, Accuracy = 0.818) achieved the highest predictive performance, outperforming RF and NB. Feature importance analysis using Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) on the best-performing SVM classifier revealed that true shooting percentage (TS%), defensive rebounds (DR), steals (ST), and turnovers (TO) were the most influential predictors of game outcomes. Teams that demonstrated higher shooting efficiency, greater rebounding control, and fewer turnovers showed a significantly higher probability of winning. These results confirm that well-validated and interpretable ML models can accurately predict game outcomes in professional basketball using readily available box-score statistics. The integration of RFE-based feature selection and SHAP interpretability provides transparent, evidence-based insights that can inform tactical decisions, enhance scouting accuracy, and support coaches in developing data-driven performance strategies within elite basketball environments. Full article

20 pages, 2020 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rediscovering Citrus lumia ‘Pyriformis’: Phytochemical Profile and Multifunctional Properties of Its Fresh Juice

by Antonella Smeriglio, Annarita La Neve, Marta Mangano, Martina Imbesi, Laura Cornara and Domenico Trombetta

Foods 2025, 14(23), 3997; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14233997 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study provides the first comprehensive chemical and biological profiling of Citrus lumia Risso & Poit. var. ‘Pyriformis’, a rare Mediterranean Citrus variety with unexplored nutraceutical potential. The fresh juice (CLPJ) showed a distinctive phytochemical composition, with 38.8 ± 0.99 mg gallic acid [...] Read more.

This study provides the first comprehensive chemical and biological profiling of Citrus lumia Risso & Poit. var. ‘Pyriformis’, a rare Mediterranean Citrus variety with unexplored nutraceutical potential. The fresh juice (CLPJ) showed a distinctive phytochemical composition, with 38.8 ± 0.99 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 mL of total phenols and 25.96 ± 2.37 mg rutin equivalents/100 mL of flavonoids. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD) quantification revealed high levels of organic acids, including ascorbic acid (0.34 g/L) and citric acid (34.6 g/L). Liquid chromatography coupled with diode-array detection and electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS) enabled the annotation of 28 polyphenolic constituents, featuring glycosylated flavanones and several uncommon flavonols and acylglycosidic derivatives whose structural patterns are typical of primitive Citrus lineages and largely absent in commercial cultivars. Functionally, CLPJ exhibited multi-target antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and promoted epithelial repair in Caco-2 cells without cytotoxic effects. Overall, the juice displays a distinctive chemotaxonomic fingerprint and promising multifunctional properties, supporting its potential as a functional food ingredient and contributing to the valorization of minor Mediterranean Citrus biodiversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds in Fruits and Vegetables)

24 pages, 5858 KB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Performance Evaluation of an FRP Composite Road Bridge Using DFOS Monitoring System

by Maciej Kulpa, Tomasz Siwowski, Mateusz Rajchel, Ewa Błazik-Borowa and Michał Jukowski

Sensors 2025, 25(23), 7131; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25237131 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

FRP composite bridges have been in operation since the mid-1990s, allowing for the evaluation of their long-term behaviour. Many of the early FRP bridges in the USA and Western Europe were equipped with monitoring systems to assess their structural integrity after years of [...] Read more.

FRP composite bridges have been in operation since the mid-1990s, allowing for the evaluation of their long-term behaviour. Many of the early FRP bridges in the USA and Western Europe were equipped with monitoring systems to assess their structural integrity after years of use. In Poland, the first all-FRP composite bridge was also equipped with a modern structural health monitoring (SHM) system based on distributed fibre optic sensing (DFOS) to enable long-term performance monitoring. Over nearly a decade of use, the bridge’s strain, stiffness, and dynamic properties have been evaluated three times through static and dynamic load tests. Research findings indicate that the bridge has maintained satisfactory structural integrity and durability over an eight-year operational period. However, the quality of the adhesive joints between the girders and the deck panels was found to be inadequate, resulting in a slight decrease in the bridge’s performance, specifically in stiffness and dynamic characteristics. Fortunately, these negative changes did not compromise the bridge’s safety or serviceability, as stipulated by the design requirements. An effective repair was completed, restoring the bridge to its full operational efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Optical Sensors)

18 pages, 1419 KB

Open AccessArticle

Increased PM_2.5 Caused by Enhanced Fireworks Burning and Secondary Aerosols in a Forested City of North China During the 2023–2025 Spring Festivals

by Qingxia Ma, Guoqing Zhao, Kaixin Cheng, Yunfei Wu, Renjian Zhang, Lei Gu, Jing Xue, Wanfu Feng, Jiliang Zhou, Xinzhi Shen and Dexin Liu

Toxics 2025, 13(12), 1009; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13121009 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Fireworks burning (FB) constitutes a major but short-lived source of PM_2.5 during the Chinese Spring Festival, significantly deteriorating air quality in certain regions. This study was conducted to evaluate its impact through real-time monitoring of PM_2.5 chemical compositions in a forestry [...] Read more.

Fireworks burning (FB) constitutes a major but short-lived source of PM_2.5 during the Chinese Spring Festival, significantly deteriorating air quality in certain regions. This study was conducted to evaluate its impact through real-time monitoring of PM_2.5 chemical compositions in a forestry city (Xinyang) during the pre-fireworks and fireworks periods at the Spring Festival of 2023–2025. During the fireworks period, PM_2.5 concentrations increased by 10.5–226.4% compared to pre-fireworks levels, of which the concentrations of secondary inorganic aerosols (SIA), K and Cl⁻ rose by 1.6–4.8, 1.9–14.7 and 1.5–8.1 times, and they accounted for 33.2–47.7%, 6.7–12.5% and 3.8–6.4% of PM_2.5, respectively. Correspondingly, PM_2.5/CO and SIA/CO ratios in 2023–2025 elevated by factors of 1.4–2.3 and 1.1–3.4, indicating distinct enhancements in secondary inorganic aerosols formation. Additionally, acidity of PM_2.5, RH and O_x also increased during fireworks. Collectively, higher sulfur and nitrogen oxidation ratios (SOR and NOR) during the fireworks period under the combined effects of high RH, O_x and acidity conditions indicated a greater conversion of secondary inorganic aerosols. Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) analysis confirmed that FB and secondary aerosols (SA) source levels during fireworks increased by 2.5–19.3 and 1.9–4.4 times compared to pre-fireworks values. This study underscores the need for implementing stringent management of fireworks and secondary formation mitigation to reduce PM_2.5 concentrations during the Spring Festival. Full article

22 pages, 1015 KB

Open AccessArticle

AI Advice for Amateur Food Production: Assessing Sustainability of LLM Recommendations

by Agnieszka Krzyżewska

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10466; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310466 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Large language models (LLMs) are increasingly consulted by amateur gardeners who rely on them for diagnosing plant problems and selecting management strategies. This study evaluates whether such AI systems promote environmentally sustainable or chemically oriented practices. Fifteen real images of edible plants showing [...] Read more.

Large language models (LLMs) are increasingly consulted by amateur gardeners who rely on them for diagnosing plant problems and selecting management strategies. This study evaluates whether such AI systems promote environmentally sustainable or chemically oriented practices. Fifteen real images of edible plants showing typical health issues were collected during 2024–2025, and four major models—ChatGPT 5.0, Gemini 2.5 Pro, Claude Sonnet 4.5, and Perplexity AI (standard version)—were queried in October 2025 using an identical user-style prompt. Each response was coded across four sustainability dimensions (ecological prevention, diagnostic reasoning, nutrient management, and chemical control) and aggregated into a composite Eco-Score (−1 to +1). Across cases, all models prioritized preventive and low-impact advice, emphasizing pruning, hygiene, compost, and organic sprays while recommending synthetic fungicides or pesticides only occasionally. The highest sustainability alignment was achieved by Perplexity AI (Eco-Score = 0.71) and Gemini 2.5 Pro (0.69), followed by ChatGPT 5.0 (0.57) and Claude Sonnet 4.5 (0.41). Although the models frequently converged in general reasoning, no case achieved full agreement in Eco-Score values across systems. These findings demonstrate that current LLMs generally reinforce sustainable reasoning but vary in interpretative reliability. While they can enhance ecological awareness and accessible plant care knowledge, their diagnostic uncertainty underscores the need for human oversight in AI-assisted amateur food production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adoption of New Technologies and Practices for Sustainable and Smart Agriculture)

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19 pages, 782 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Differences in Inflammatory Genetic Profiles in Periodontitis Associated with Genetic and Immunological Disorders: A Systematic Review

by Luis Astolfi-Labrador, Álvaro Cabezas-Corado, Daniel Torres-Lagares and María Baus-Domínguez

Biomedicines 2025, 13(12), 2851; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13122851 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background: Periodontitis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease influenced by immune and genetic factors. Certain genetic and immunological disorders, such as Down syndrome (DS), Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency type I (LAD-I), and Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome (PLS), are associated with early-onset and severe periodontitis. Understanding their [...] Read more.

Background: Periodontitis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease influenced by immune and genetic factors. Certain genetic and immunological disorders, such as Down syndrome (DS), Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency type I (LAD-I), and Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome (PLS), are associated with early-onset and severe periodontitis. Understanding their molecular and immunological mechanisms is crucial for advancing personalized therapeutic approaches. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines to compare inflammatory gene expression profiles in patients with periodontitis associated with genetic or immune-mediated disorders and those without systemic conditions. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase for studies published between 2010 and June 2025. Eligible studies reporting cytokine profiles or inflammatory gene expression were included and analyzed. Results: Six case–control studies met the inclusion criteria: three on DS, two on LAD-I, and one on PLS. DS patients showed increased serum levels of IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-gamma, with dysregulation of STAT1, STAT3, and SOCS3. LAD-I was characterized by overexpression of IL-17A, IL-6, IL-23, G-CSF, CXCL2, and CXCL5, indicating IL-17–driven inflammation and excessive neutrophil activation. In PLS, cathepsin C deficiency impaired activation of the antimicrobial peptide LL-37, leading to compromised host defense and accelerated tissue breakdown. Conclusions: Patients with periodontitis linked to genetic or immune-mediated disorders exhibit distinct inflammatory gene expression signatures that enhance disease susceptibility and progression. Identifying these immunoinflammatory pathways may guide precision periodontal therapies, although larger, standardized studies are required to validate these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Periodontal Disease: From Pathophysiology to Novel Therapeutic Approaches)

11 pages, 404 KB

Open AccessArticle

Trauma, Emotional Neglect, and Developmental Vulnerability in Children: Evidence from Albania

by Anila Sulstarova, Blerta Bodinaku, Skerdi Zahaj, Gerda Sula and Greta Hysi

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121608 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background: Children in Albania and the wider Balkan region are often exposed to subtle yet persistent forms of emotional absence, parentification, and silencing. These relational harms are culturally normalized and rarely identified as neglect, but they create significant developmental vulnerabilities and increase the [...] Read more.

Background: Children in Albania and the wider Balkan region are often exposed to subtle yet persistent forms of emotional absence, parentification, and silencing. These relational harms are culturally normalized and rarely identified as neglect, but they create significant developmental vulnerabilities and increase the risk of exploitation, including trafficking. Methods: This qualitative study involved 30 participants, including 16 frontline professionals (psychologists, social workers, and legal staff) and 14 survivors of trafficking. Data were collected through semi-structured, trauma-informed interviews and focus groups between December 2024 and March 2025. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to identify emotional and relational patterns contributing to vulnerability, with attention to cultural contexts and gendered dynamics. Results: Three interrelated themes were identified: (1) emotional absence: children adapt to caregivers’ physical presence but emotional unavailability, leading to self-effacement and diminished entitlement to care; (2) parentification: children assume emotional caregiving roles, often regulating parents’ wellbeing; and (3) silencing: emotional expression becomes equated with shame or punishment, producing long-term relational invisibility. Conclusions: Early relational harms describe developmental conditions that may heighten susceptibility. Prevention and intervention should integrate attachment-based family assessments, early childhood screening, trauma-informed training for professionals, and culturally adapted approaches to break cycles of invisible harm and strengthen children’s emotional safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Trauma and Resilience in Children and Adolescents)

17 pages, 5089 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Evolution Law of Four-Dimensional In Situ Stress During Hydraulic Fracturing of Deep Shale Gas Reservoir

by Shuai Cui, Jianfa Wu, Bo Zeng, Haoyong Huang, Shouyi Wang, Houbin Liu and Junchuan Gui

Processes 2025, 13(12), 3772; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13123772 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

The increasing burial depth of deep shale formations in the southern Sichuan leads to more complex in situ stresses and geological structures, which in turn raises the challenges of hydraulic fracturing. Although enlarging the treatment scale and injection rate can enhance reservoir stimulation, [...] Read more.

The increasing burial depth of deep shale formations in the southern Sichuan leads to more complex in situ stresses and geological structures, which in turn raises the challenges of hydraulic fracturing. Although enlarging the treatment scale and injection rate can enhance reservoir stimulation, the intensive development of faults and fractures in deep shale formations aggravates stress instability, inducing casing deformation, fracture communication, and other engineering risks that constrain efficient shale gas production. In this study, a cross-scale geomechanical model linking the regional to near-wellbore domains was constructed. A dynamic evolution equation was established based on flow–stress coupling, and a numerical conversion from the geological model to the finite element model was implemented through self-programming, thereby developing a simulation method for dynamic geomechanical evolution during hydraulic fracturing. Results indicate that dynamic variations in pore pressure dominate stress redistribution, while near-wellbore heterogeneity and mechanical property distribution significantly affect prediction accuracy. The injection of fracturing fluid generates a high-pressure gradient that drives pore pressure diffusion along fracture networks and faults, exhibiting a strong near-wellbore but weak far-field non-steady spatial attenuation. As the pore pressure increases, the peak value reaches 1.4 times the original pressure. The triaxial stress shows a negative correlation and decreases. The horizontal minimum principal stress shows the most significant drop, with a reduction of 15.79% to 20.68%, while the vertical stress changes the least, with a reduction of 5.7% to 7.14%. Compared with the initial stress state, the horizontal stress difference increases during fracturing. Rapid pore-pressure surges and fault distributions further trigger stress reorientation, with the magnitude of rotation positively correlated with the intensity of pore-pressure variation. The high porosity and permeability characteristics of the initial fracture network lead to a rapid attenuation of the stress around the wellbore. In the middle and later stages, as the pressure balance is achieved through fracture filling, the pore pressure rises and the stress decline tends to stabilize. The findings provide significant insights into the dynamic stress evolution of deep shale reservoirs during fracturing and offer theoretical support for optimizing fracturing design and mitigating engineering risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Systems)

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30 pages, 16222 KB

Open AccessArticle

Technical Limits in Prescriptive Building Cultures and Tectonic Approaches: Challenges of Turkish Cypriot Architects

by Kamiar Yazdani and Yonca Hurol

Buildings 2025, 15(23), 4220; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15234220 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Prescriptive building culture, as a form of determinism, shapes architects’ tectonic approaches by imposing prescriptive technical limits (PTLs) during the building process. Exploring PTLs provides a foundation for describing overarching tectonic approaches in practice that have not been systematically studied. This research provides [...] Read more.

Prescriptive building culture, as a form of determinism, shapes architects’ tectonic approaches by imposing prescriptive technical limits (PTLs) during the building process. Exploring PTLs provides a foundation for describing overarching tectonic approaches in practice that have not been systematically studied. This research provides a comprehensive overview of emerging PTLs among Turkish Cypriot architects in Northern Cyprus, examining their types, sources, emergence stages, root causes, and impact on tectonic design strategies. The study employed mixed-methods Sequential Explanatory Design (SED), combining survey and interview data. Findings reveal that architects mainly adopt conservative tectonic approaches in response to PTLs, reflecting limited innovative attitudes in technical and structural design, with rare tendencies towards more innovative strategies. Qualitative analysis maps structural engineers and legal frameworks as primary initiators, while PTLs mainly occur during preliminary design, construction documentation, and application visa stages. The key contributions are: (i) a transferable coding framework linking PTLs’ initiators, stages, and effects; (ii) empirical evidence of predominant affirmative tectonic approaches in a prescriptive, seismic context; (iii) identified innovative design attitudes; and (iv) a regionally grounded dataset informing comparative studies. The uncovered indicative patterns also provide an applicable model for examining PTLs and tectonic approaches worldwide across other prescriptive cultures and seismic regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)

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21 pages, 306 KB

Open AccessArticle

Patient Satisfaction Measurement: A Comparison of Likert and Item-Specific Response Options Scales

by Vassilis Aletras, Stavros Chatzopoulos, Maria Kalouda, Dimitris Niakas and Angeliki Flokou

Healthcare 2025, 13(23), 3017; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13233017 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Patients’ reports on their satisfaction with the care received often have been seen as a key quality indicator of hospital performance. However, the potential effect of different approaches to its measurement has not been adequately assessed in the health care setting. [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Patients’ reports on their satisfaction with the care received often have been seen as a key quality indicator of hospital performance. However, the potential effect of different approaches to its measurement has not been adequately assessed in the health care setting. This study therefore aimed to methodologically compare two different response formats in patient satisfaction questionnaires—Likert scales and Item-Specific Response Options (ISRO)—within a Greek public hospital context. The aim was to comparatively explore resulting item- and scale-level score values, ceiling effects, acquiescence bias, and psychometric properties, including reliability and validity. Methods: An overall sample of 400 hospitalized patients at a National Health Service general university hospital was randomly assigned to two groups during February–March 2025. One group completed a Likert-scale questionnaire and the other a questionnaire, with the same content, that employed an ISRO format instead. The questionnaire items covered two aspects of the hospital experience, these being the satisfaction with doctors/nurses as well as the organization and planning of care. Statistical analysis involved Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests for normality, descriptive statistics, chi-square and Fisher’s exact test, t-tests, Mann–Whitney tests, ceiling effects, regressions, Cronbach’s alpha coefficients, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), with measures of composite reliability and average variance extracted and model fit indices. Results: Our analysis identified differences in the distributions of patient responses for many items, including variations in median values and the proportion of positive answers. ISRO items tended to produce higher ratings for nursing care and overall satisfaction, whereas Likert items yielded higher scores in organizational aspects. However, the magnitude of these differences was generally small. Regression analysis, adjusting for length of stay, confirmed statistically significant but modest differences in scale scores between formats. Neither format was superior in terms of ceiling effects, whereas no consistent evidence of acquiescence bias was found. Psychometric testing showed that Likert scales had somewhat higher internal consistency reliability and convergent validity, while ISRO exhibited a better model fit in CFA. Conclusions: The item response format seems to affect reported satisfaction scores, yet the impact is rather limited in practical terms for decision-making. Since neither format is consistently superior, the choice between them should depend on study aims, respondent burden, and the intended use of satisfaction scores by policy makers. Moreover, concerns about acquiescence bias may have been overstated in the health care context. Future research should extend these comparisons with other instruments and larger and more diverse samples, as well as employ complementary methods to clarify how response format affects patient satisfaction measurement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Management: Improving Patient Outcomes and Service Quality)

25 pages, 9124 KB

Open AccessArticle

Real-Time 6D Pose Estimation and Multi-Target Tracking for Low-Cost Multi-Robot System

by Bo Shan, Donghui Zhao, Ruijin Zhao and Yokoi Hiroshi

Sensors 2025, 25(23), 7130; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25237130 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

In the research field of multi-robot cooperation, reliable and low-cost motion capture is crucial for system development and validation. To address the high costs of traditional motion capture systems, this study proposes a real-time 6D pose estimation and tracking method for multi-robot systems [...] Read more.

In the research field of multi-robot cooperation, reliable and low-cost motion capture is crucial for system development and validation. To address the high costs of traditional motion capture systems, this study proposes a real-time 6D pose estimation and tracking method for multi-robot systems based on YolPnP-FT. Using only an Intel RealSense D435i depth camera, the system achieves simultaneous robot classification, 6D pose estimation, and multi-target tracking in real-world environments. The YolPnP-FT pipeline introduces a keypoint confidence filtering strategy (PnP-FT) at the output of the YOLOv8 detection head and employs Gaussian-penalized Soft-NMS to enhance robustness under partial occlusion. Based on these detection results, a linearly weighted combination of Mahalanobis distance and cosine distance enables stable ID assignment in visually similar multi-robot scenarios. Experimental results show that, at a camera height below 2.5 m, the system achieves an average position error of less than 0.009 m and an average angular error of less than 4.2°, with a stable tracking frame rate of 19.8 FPS at 1920 × 1080 resolution. Furthermore, the perception outputs are validated in a CoppeliaSim-based simulation environment, confirming their utility for downstream coordination tasks. These results demonstrate that the proposed method provides a low-cost, real-time, and deployable perception solution for multi-robot systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Sensors for Intelligent Robotic Systems: Vision, Touch, and Dexterous Manipulation)

24 pages, 3094 KB

Open AccessArticle

Discrete Element Simulation on the Evolution Mechanism of Excavation Damage Zone in Deep-Buried Tunnels Under Confining Pressure and Comprehensive Structural Planes

by Zhina Liu, Yan Qiao, Yuanfeng Suo and Haoyu Diao

Geosciences 2025, 15(12), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15120443 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

The failure mechanism of fractured rock masses under high in situ stress is crucial to the stability of deep underground engineering. This study employs the discrete element method to investigate the evolution of the excavation damage zone (EDZ) in deep-buried tunnels. Numerical models [...] Read more.

The failure mechanism of fractured rock masses under high in situ stress is crucial to the stability of deep underground engineering. This study employs the discrete element method to investigate the evolution of the excavation damage zone (EDZ) in deep-buried tunnels. Numerical models of granite were developed to analyze how confining pressure influences single fractures with varying characteristics and to compare the behavior of filled versus unfilled fractures in double-fracture configurations. The results show the following: (1) confining pressure exerts a dual role, promoting crack initiation and EDZ expansion in intact rock and exposed fractures due to stress concentration while suppressing damage near hidden filled fractures through confinement; (2) EDZ geometry is governed by fracture orientation and filling condition, with filled fractures maintaining stress continuity and raising the crack initiation stress ratio to 0.3–0.4; (3) in multi-fracture setups, unfilled fractures facilitate stress release and crack coalescence, whereas filled fractures act as barriers, diverting cracks and promoting symmetric stress redistribution; and (4) models accurately reproduced failure patterns from real rockburst cases, validating the method for predicting fracture behavior, with filled fractures reducing EDZ area by up to 44%. These findings provide theoretical support for rockburst risk assessment and support design in complex geological conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Numerical Methods in Rock Mechanics)

17 pages, 729 KB

Open AccessReview

Strategies for Protecting Cereals and Other Utility Plants Against Cold and Freezing Conditions—A Mini-Review

by Julia Stachurska and Anna Maksymowicz

Agriculture 2025, 15(23), 2407; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15232407 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Low-temperature (LT) stresses (cold and frost) are major abiotic factors limiting plant growth and productivity. LT induces numerous physiological and biochemical changes in plants, changes hormonal balance and photosynthetic efficiency. Stress induced by LT often leads to yield losses in crops. While plants [...] Read more.

Low-temperature (LT) stresses (cold and frost) are major abiotic factors limiting plant growth and productivity. LT induces numerous physiological and biochemical changes in plants, changes hormonal balance and photosynthetic efficiency. Stress induced by LT often leads to yield losses in crops. While plants like maize and cucumber are highly sensitive to cold, winter cereals such as wheat and rye suffer mainly from severe frosts. Ongoing climate change and temperature fluctuations further increase the risk of LT-induced damage. To counteract the problems connected with LT stress, multiple strategies have been developed to enhance plant tolerance. Agrotechnical practices and biochemical treatments involving the application of phytohormones or osmoprotectants are designed to improve plant tolerance to LT. Beneficial plant–microbe interactions also contribute to alleviating LT stress. In addition, genetic engineering offers powerful tools for creating new cultivars that are more tolerant to LT. The CRISPR/Cas system, in particular, enables precise modifications and represents a promising tool for advancing sustainable agriculture. Integrated methods of protection are crucial for securing food supplies, especially under conditions of a changing climate. This mini-review summarises strategies for protecting plants against LT stress, with special attention paid to crop plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Biochemical Responses to Abiotic Stress in Cereal and Pseudocereal Crops)

23 pages, 2068 KB

Open AccessArticle

Semi-Quantitative ΔCt Thresholds for Bacteriuria and Pre-Analytic Drivers of PCR-Culture Discordance in Complicated UTI: An Analysis of NCT06996301

by Moustafa Kardjadj, Itoe P. Priestly, Roel Chavez, DeAndre Derrick and Thomas K. Huard

Diagnostics 2025, 15(23), 2959; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15232959 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background: Quantitative urine culture (CFU/mL) remains the reference standard for diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs) but is limited by delayed turnaround times and sensitivity to pre-analytic factors. Multiplex PCR panels offer rapid detection; however, standardized mappings between molecular signals and viable bacterial [...] Read more.

Background: Quantitative urine culture (CFU/mL) remains the reference standard for diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs) but is limited by delayed turnaround times and sensitivity to pre-analytic factors. Multiplex PCR panels offer rapid detection; however, standardized mappings between molecular signals and viable bacterial burdens are insufficiently defined. We used the multicenter NCT06996301 paired dataset to evaluate the analytical validity (AV), clinical validity (CV), and pre-analytic robustness of ΔCt (Ct_target − IC_Ct) as a semi-quantitative indicator of bacterial load. Methods: We analyzed 1027 paired PCR and quantitative urine culture specimens from six sites. The primary molecular predictor was ΔCt (Ct_target − IC_Ct). Species-level Spearman and Pearson correlations, species-specific linear mixed-effects calibration models (log₁₀CFU ~ ΔCt + (1|site)), and ROC analyses were performed for the taxa meeting pre-specified sample thresholds. A pooled multilevel model assessed the collection method and time-to-processing (hours) effects (log₁₀CFU ~ ΔCt × collection_method + ΔCt × time_to_processing_h + (1|site) + (1|run)). AV was assessed via reproducibility, internal control normalization, and site run variance. CV was assessed by ΔCt calibration and discrimination. Clinical utility (CU) was contextualized using outcomes from the parent randomized trial. Results: PCR positivity exceeded culture positivity across all sites (PCR ~82–88% vs. culture ~66–70%); this excess likely reflects a combination of molecular detection of non-viable DNA, detection of fastidious taxa less readily recovered by culture, and pre-analytic effects. For six common uropathogens (n = 90 pairs/species), ΔCt correlated strongly with log₁₀CFU (Spearman ρ = −0.64 to −0.75; Pearson r = −0.75 to −0.83). Species-specific mixed models yielded slopes of −0.746 to −0.922 log₁₀CFU per ΔCt unit (all p < 0.001), indicating that each 1 unit ΔCt change corresponds to a ~5.6–8.4-fold CFU difference. ROC AUCs for ΔCt discrimination were 0.78–0.84 (interpreted as good discrimination, i.e., ΔCt meaningfully improves the clinician’s probability estimate of a high CFU but does not perfectly classify every specimen). The collection method (catheter vs. clean-catch) did not materially modify the ΔCt→CFU relationship, whereas the processing delay was associated with reduced recovered CFU (~0.048 log₁₀CFU lost per hour) and a significant ΔCt × time interaction, consistent with time-dependent viability loss driving the PCR⁺/culture⁻ discordance. Conclusions: ΔCt from the DOC Lab UTM 2.0 panel shows a reproducible, analytically valid semi-quantitative measure of urinary bacterial load. Laboratories can derive assay- and workflow-specific ΔCt cut points for semi-quantitative reporting, but thresholds must be validated prospectively and paired with operational controls for specimen handling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Laboratory Diagnosis)

5 pages, 174 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Advances in Waste Biomass and Environmental Sustainability

by Lucília Sousa Ribeiro

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10465; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310465 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

The accelerating depletion of fossil fuel reserves, together with the growing global demand for sustainable materials and energy, has intensified the need for renewable and carbon-neutral alternatives [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Waste Biomass and Environmental Sustainability)

15 pages, 387 KB

Open AccessArticle

Response of Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) to Vermicompost Fertilization and Foliar Application of Methylobacterium symbioticum

by Wacław Jarecki

Agronomy 2025, 15(12), 2681; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15122681 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

In the cultivation of leguminous plants, various fertilizers and microbiological preparations are used to increase nutrient availability or stimulate plant development. A pot experiment was conducted to examine the response of soybean to vermicompost fertilization and foliar application of Methylobacterium symbioticum. The [...] Read more.

In the cultivation of leguminous plants, various fertilizers and microbiological preparations are used to increase nutrient availability or stimulate plant development. A pot experiment was conducted to examine the response of soybean to vermicompost fertilization and foliar application of Methylobacterium symbioticum. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with four replicates. Vermicompost fertilization was found to increase the SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) value and improve selected physiological parameters of the plants (Fv/Fm, Fv/F₀, PI, RC/ABS) compared to the control. The most optimal results were obtained for vermicompost from sewage sludge, regardless of Methylobacterium symbioticum application. Fertilization with this variant significantly increased seed weight per plant and seed protein content compared to the control. Therefore, vermicompost fertilization, particularly with sewage sludge, can be beneficial in soybean cultivation, as it reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. However, foliar application of Methylobacterium symbioticum generally did not modify the tested parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conventional and Alternative Fertilization of Crops)

12 pages, 1118 KB

Open AccessReview

Mass Trapping as a Sustainable Approach for Scarabaeidae Pest Management in Crops and Grasslands

by Sergeja Adamič Zamljen, Tanja Bohinc and Stanislav Trdan

Agriculture 2025, 15(23), 2406; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15232406 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Soil-dwelling beetles, including native and invasive species such as Popilia japonica Newman (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), are persistent and damaging agricultural pests worldwide. Mass trapping, using pheromone-, light-, or food-based lures to attract and remove adults, is being developed as an environmentally sustainable alternative within [...] Read more.

Soil-dwelling beetles, including native and invasive species such as Popilia japonica Newman (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), are persistent and damaging agricultural pests worldwide. Mass trapping, using pheromone-, light-, or food-based lures to attract and remove adults, is being developed as an environmentally sustainable alternative within integrated pest management (IPM). Scarab beetles respond positively to attractant-based traps, and large-scale programs against P. japonica in North America provide valuable insights for global applications. The efficacy of mass trapping depends on species biology, trap density, environmental conditions and landscape structure. Capturing adults does not always immediately reduce larval populations, as underground stages persist in soil for multiple years. Light traps are effective but often attract many non-target insects, whereas pheromone traps are more selective but require careful optimization of lure composition, release rate and placement. To achieve reliable suppression, mass trapping should be integrated with complementary strategies such as biological control agents (Beauveria spp., Metarhizium spp.), crop rotation, tolerant crop varieties and soil management. Future research should focus on refining lure design, optimizing deployment, testing predictive models and evaluating multi-bait systems. Overall, mass trapping represents a promising and environmentally sustainable tool that, when incorporated into integrated approaches, can enhance the management of soil-dwelling scarab beetles across diverse agroecosystems worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Crop Protection, Diseases, Pests and Weeds)

10 pages, 6999 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Delayed Emergence of Norovirus GII.17 in Finland: Foodborne Outbreaks Reported During the 2024/25 Season

by Haider Al-Hello, Ruska Rimhanen-Finne and Carita Savolainen-Kopra

Viruses 2025, 17(12), 1530; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17121530 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

During the 2024/25 season, Finland experienced a delayed emergence of norovirus genotype GII.17, which had already become prevalent in several European countries and the United States during the previous season, 2023/24. In Finland, GII.17 was confirmed in three foodborne outbreaks and five sporadic [...] Read more.

During the 2024/25 season, Finland experienced a delayed emergence of norovirus genotype GII.17, which had already become prevalent in several European countries and the United States during the previous season, 2023/24. In Finland, GII.17 was confirmed in three foodborne outbreaks and five sporadic cases, marking the highest number of detections to date. These cases were geographically distributed across southern, western, and northern Finland, indicating widespread circulation. Retrospective analysis of national surveillance data from 2014 to 2025 revealed that GII.17 had been detected sporadically in earlier years but never at this scale. The emergence of GII.17 coincided with a continued presence of GII.4 [P16], the previously dominant genotype. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Finnish GII.17 strains clustered with recent international strains, suggesting introduction from abroad. The findings highlight the importance of sustained genotyping and international surveillance to detect emerging norovirus variants and inform public health preparedness in Finland. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viruses Associated with Gastroenteritis)

22 pages, 833 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Hybrid Prediction Model Using Statistical Forecasters and Deep Neural Networks

by Renan Otvin Klehm, Wemerson Delcio Parreira, Rudimar Luís Scaranto Dazzi, Anita Maria da Rocha Fernandes, David Cruz García and Gabriel Villarrubia González

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(23), 12393; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152312393 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

The ability to accurately predict future time series behavior in multiple steps, known as multi-horizon forecasting, is a vital aspect in various industries, including retail sales, energy consumption, server load, healthcare, weather, and others. We have proposed, in this paper, the use of [...] Read more.

The ability to accurately predict future time series behavior in multiple steps, known as multi-horizon forecasting, is a vital aspect in various industries, including retail sales, energy consumption, server load, healthcare, weather, and others. We have proposed, in this paper, the use of statistical forecasters as covariates in a Deep Neural Network (DNN) model and evaluated its impact on forecast metrics. Our analysis covered four diverse datasets: M5, Stallion, Stock Market, and Synthetic. The results demonstrated that the inclusion of statistical predictors in the DNN model led to varying degrees of improvement in forecast performance, depending on the dataset and the chosen evaluation metric. In general, our findings suggest that incorporating statistical prediction as a covariate can be a valuable approach to improving multi-horizon prediction, especially in scenarios with data scarcity and intermittency. The hybrid model achieved consistent improvements, particularly on Symmetric Mean Absolute Percentage Error (SMAPE) across datasets, with statistically significant gains on synthetic and stock market series. Specifically, SMAPE was reduced by approximately 33% on synthetic and stock market datasets, by 15–20% on Stallion, and by around 6% on M5. These results confirm that integrating statistical forecasts as covariates can substantially enhance predictive accuracy, especially for volatile or synthetic series. Full article

29 pages, 6389 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Potential for Producing Geopolymer-Based Granulates as a Substitute for Natural Aggregates

by Magdalena Cempa, Jerzy Korol and Agnieszka Klupa

Materials 2025, 18(23), 5275; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18235275 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study presents the development and evaluation of a technology for producing geopolymer-based granulates, which act as sustainable substitutes for natural aggregates by utilizing waste materials. The technology is demonstrated to be energy-efficient compared to other manufactured aggregate processes (such as sintering), as [...] Read more.

This study presents the development and evaluation of a technology for producing geopolymer-based granulates, which act as sustainable substitutes for natural aggregates by utilizing waste materials. The technology is demonstrated to be energy-efficient compared to other manufactured aggregate processes (such as sintering), as it relies on a cold-bonding process and achieves self-hardening at room temperature. The granulation of geopolymer materials using an intensive counter-current mixer represents an innovative solution in the field of producing substitutes for natural aggregates. Coal fly ash (CFA) was used as the primary aluminosilicate precursor, with composite regrind from decommissioned wind turbine blades (CR) and steelmaking dust (SD) tested as additives. Reactive solids and alkaline activator liquids were mixed and granulated in a single operation using an intensive counter-current mixer; moistening and surface powdering were applied to improve granule sphericity. The granules were cold-cured at room temperature and characterized after 28 days by grain size distribution, crushing resistance, water absorption, abrasion (micro-Deval), SEM/EDS and leaching tests. The results indicate that the additives significantly improved the mechanical performance: PM + PK granules reached crushing strengths > 6 MPa, while CFA + SD granules reached > 11 MPa, exceeding many commercial lightweight aggregates (such as LECA or Lytag), as detailed in the paper. The CFA + CR granulates exhibited a compact microstructure and the effective immobilization of several heavy metals, whereas the CFA + DS samples demonstrated the excessive leaching of Cr, Pb and Mo. The process achieved a high solid-to-liquid ratio (>2.0), reducing activator consumption. Composite regrind is recommended as a promising additive. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Waste Materials’ Valorization)

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38 pages, 6614 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Glass Cullet Content on the Mechanical and Compaction Behavior of Cement-Bound Granular Mixtures for Road Base/Subbase Applications

by Justyna Stępień, Anna Chomicz-Kowalska, Piotr Ramiączek, Krzysztof Maciejewski and Mateusz Oleksik

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(23), 12400; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152312400 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

The growing accumulation of glass waste and the limited availability of natural aggregates present major challenges for sustainable road construction. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the glass cullet content (GC) in the range of 0–30% on the mechanical and compaction [...] Read more.

The growing accumulation of glass waste and the limited availability of natural aggregates present major challenges for sustainable road construction. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the glass cullet content (GC) in the range of 0–30% on the mechanical and compaction properties of cement-bound granular mixtures (CBGM 31.5 mm, R_c class C_5/6) intended for the road base and subbase layers. Laboratory tests were carried out to analyze the effect of GC on the optimum moisture content (OMC), the maximum dry density (ρ_d,max), and the compressive strength after 7 and 28 days (R₇, R₂₈). The results showed a systematic decrease in OMC and ρ_d,max with increasing GC content, by approximately 18% and 2.8%, respectively, for the mixture containing 30% glass. All CBGM mixtures met the strength requirements for class C_5/6 (R_c = 6–10 MPa), with the highest value of R28 obtained for the mixture containing 20% GC (9.4 MPa), representing a 24% increase compared to the reference mix. The relationship between GC content and compressive strength was best described by a second-degree polynomial function (R² = 0.60–0.65), indicating an optimum within the 10–20% range. Strength enhancement was attributed to synergistic effects of physical mechanisms (filler effect and improved particle packing) and chemical activity (pozzolanic reactivity of fine glass fractions). The 30% GC mixture provided the minimum required strength while achieving the highest level of waste utilization and environmental benefit. Therefore, the optimal GC content should be determined as a balance between mechanical performance and sustainable use of secondary materials in the temperate climatic conditions of Central Europe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials and Technologies in Pavement Engineering)

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